With winter on the way, now is the perfect time to ensure your home looks its best. After all, who wants to come home to a drafty, dreary house after a long day of work? The holidays are also fast approaching, and you’ll want your home to look its best for guests. Getting your home ready for the colder months doesn’t have to be a huge undertaking. Here are some tips from the pros that will help your home look brand new before winter arrives.
1. Focus on the entryway
The entryway is one of the first things guests will see when they come to your home. Make sure it’s clean and inviting by sweeping away any cobwebs, dusting off light fixtures, and giving the door a fresh coat of paint. Moss and algae can also build up on outdoor steps and walkways, so be sure to give them a good scrub before winter arrives. A professional house washing service can also help to keep your home’s exterior looking its best by removing years of built-up dirt and grime.
If you have space in your entryway, consider adding a small bench or an accent table to provide a place for guests to take their shoes off. Adding a few seasonal touches, like a colorful wreath or some greenery, can also help give your entryway a fresh look. You may even want to consider installing a new door mat to help guests keep their shoes clean.
Additionally, be sure to clear away any clutter that may have accumulated in your entryway over the course of the year. For example, if you have a catch-all drawer or basket, make sure it’s emptied out, so guests don’t have to step over things when they come in. If you have a coat closet, take the time to go through it and donate any items you no longer need or use.
2. Spruce up your kitchen
The kitchen is one of the most used rooms in your home, so it’s essential to keep it looking its best. An easy way to do this is by cleaning your cabinets and appliances well. Remove everything from your cabinets and drawers, and wipe them down with a damp cloth. If you have any grease or grime build-up, you may need to use a mild cleanser. Don’t forget to clean the inside of your cabinets and drawers as well!
If your cabinets look dated, consider painting them or adding new hardware to give them an updated look. Replacing worn-out flooring can also make a big difference in the overall appearance of your kitchen. And if you’re really ambitious, adding a backsplash is a great way to add personality and value to your kitchen.
You can also take this time to declutter your kitchen counters and get rid of any small appliances you no longer use. Go through your pantry and donate any non-perishable food items that you won’t be using. It’s also a good idea to check the expiration dates on all of your spices and toss any that are out of date.
3. Update your lighting
Nothing makes a room feel more outdated than old, inefficient lighting fixtures. If you’re still using CFL bulbs, now is the time to switch to LED – they are more energy-efficient and emit less heat, making them perfect for wintertime use. You may also want to consider installing dimmer switches throughout your home to easily adjust the light level to suit your needs.
Don’t forget about those outdoor lights! Making sure they’re all in working order will not only improve your home’s curb appeal but can also help prevent potential accidents on icy sidewalks and driveways this winter. Look for any burned-out bulbs and replace them, and be sure to clear away any debris or weeds that may be blocking the light.
Some winter-specific lighting ideas include stringing up icicle lights around your home’s exterior or adding a festive wreath to your front door. Candles are also a great way to create a warm and inviting ambiance in your home during the colder months. Just be sure to blow them out before you leave the house or go to bed!
Preparing your home for winter doesn’t have to be difficult – with just a few small changes, you can make it feel warm and inviting all season long! Make guests feel welcome with a clean and clutter-free entryway, spruce up your kitchen cabinets and appliances, and update your lighting fixtures for a more modern look. And don’t forget to add a few seasonal touches to really get into the winter spirit! With these tips, your home will be ready for anything the season throws your way.
