You might have new year’s resolutions for yourself, but what about for your home? There’s always more you can do for the place you live in, whether it’s boosting the security or going green. Here are some of your best options:
Decluttering
Possessions tend to build up over time. It’s important to go through them and make things look neat again. Go systematically by room and figure out the items that give you joy and the those that aren’t worth the space. Don’t just cover what’s in sight, but make sure to go through cabinets as well. If there are items you want to keep that aren’t aesthetic, like shoes or DVDs, try putting them in woven baskets.
Security
It’s important to make sure that your home is safe. The first step is checking for radon, which is a major cause of lung cancer. You can find a test kit for only $20! Another gas to check for is carbon monoxide. You can install detectors all over your house for a low cost.
Check out your dryer to make sure all the lint is gone, as it can be a fire hazard. Be sure to look at both the vents and ducts of the dryer. In the same vein, ensure the entire house has vents to the outside, including the attic and bathrooms.
Another thing to look out for if your home was built before 1978 is lead paint and asbestos.
Going green
There are a few ways to do this that will also lower your utility bills! Make sure to turn off lights when you’re not in the room, and do the same with your air conditioner when you’re out of the house. Replace your lights with LED bulbs. Fill your washing machine and dishwasher to capacity before running them. You can even try drying some of your clothes on a line instead of in a dryer. Shut off power strips and put desktops on sleep mode- and compost!
Maintaining cleanliness
It’s important to keep your home in good order, not just to keep it clean but to keep your stress levels low. Be sure to stay on top of your dirty dishes and laundry, and perform a full cleaning of your home on a weekly basis.
Getting entertainment-ready
There are a couple of things you can do to make sure your house is ready for company at the drop of a hat. You can start by adding plants, or selecting one of your accent colors and emphasizing it with some pillows. Consider rearranging your furniture as well to make it more conversation-friendly.
Source: HGTV