I think we can all agree, this past year allowed us to really see our homes in a new light. Perhaps this light has revealed some areas that need a little TLC. Consider the following areas or ways you can give your home a boost this coming year.

Be a Clutter Buster

Organizing your home is one of the best ways to start fresh. It can also seem the most overwhelming if you have a lot of people and all the stuff that people come with. If you can focus on two principles, this task can be achieved. One-get rid of things you don’t use or don’t like. Two-only bring things into the home that you need. Both of these things will take time to master, but when you do, you will find the task of maintaining clutter much easier. Start with one room, really evaluate it’s contents and make a keep, donate and trash pile. You may find yourself with extra storage as you go from room to room. Utilize that new found space to help organize the items you are keeping. Invest in quality shelving, baskets or caddies for a homey look.

Make Connections in the Kitchen

The hub for most families, take a look at how your kitchen can work harder to not only deliver healthy meals, but also be a place for family to gather and connect. Start by giving it a solid cleaning and re-organizing the pantry and cupboards. Throw away expired items or anything that has overstayed it’s welcome. Start the year off right with healthy snack choices that are easily accessible. Find some new cookbooks and encourage the family to try a new recipe every week. Discussion flows naturally when the family cooks together-assign tasks to every member.

Changes That Last

Make conscience changes that are good for your home and the environment. Recycling is still important, but switching over to sustainable goods makes a big impact too. Here are some easy, low cost swaps you can consider:

-Cloth napkins and tea towels instead of paper products.

-Use shopping bags at stores instead of asking for plastic bags.

-Try making your own cleaning supplies for the home..baking soda, vinegar and lemons are powerhouse grease cutters.

-Ditch the plastic water bottles for a filtered water pitcher and reusable water bottle.

-Keep those food scraps in a small counter top compost bin..throw in this years garden.

Go Green Around the Home

You don’t have to invest in solar panels or buy a hybrid car to make a difference.

Little things like turning off lights when you leave a room and not running the water when you brush your teeth go a long way in saving energy and money. LED bulbs, a programmable thermostat and low-flow shower heads make a difference all year round. Go old school this summer, hang clothes and give your dryer a break. Replacing old windows to a more energy efficient model will help maintain your homes temperature all year round.

Stay Financially Sound

Create and stick to an annual budget. Find an app or program that allows you to keep track of spending habits. People that stick to a budget tend to overspend less and have more funds available for emergencies that may occur in the home. Make sure to budget for future home improvement projects.

We wish you the best in 2021!