Everyone wants their home to be a welcoming space – a haven where they can relax and where guests feel comfortable and cozy. The key to creating such an environment lies not just in what we do, but also in what we stop doing. Over the years, I’ve discovered 10 habits that were inadvertently making my home less inviting. By quitting these practices, I’ve managed to create a home that truly feels like a sanctuary, for me and for anyone who walks through my door. Here’s my list of 10 things I stopped doing that made my home feel more welcoming.
1. Overloading on Furniture
We often think that more furniture equals a more comfortable home. But in reality, too much furniture can make a space feel cluttered and cramped, not cozy. Instead of filling every available space, try to create an easy flow in the room. This gives a sense of spaciousness and tranquility. This doesn’t mean you have to live in a minimalist environment, but be mindful of the size and number of furniture pieces in each room.
For example, if your living room is small, consider choosing a loveseat instead of a full-sized couch. Or, replace a bulky coffee table with a couple of smaller side tables. You’ll be surprised at how much larger and more welcoming your room appears with a little extra space.
2. Keeping Outdated Decor
Holding onto outdated decor can make your home feel like it’s stuck in a time warp. Just as our personal styles evolve over time, so should our home decor. It’s important to update your decor to reflect your current tastes and lifestyle.
This doesn’t mean you need to do a complete overhaul every year. Small changes—like switching out throw pillows, changing lampshades, or rotating art pieces—can make a big difference. Remember, your home should reflect who you are now, not who you were a decade ago.
3. Neglecting Greenery
Plants can truly bring a home to life. They add a burst of color and a feel of freshness that few other decor elements can match. If you’ve been neglecting greenery, you might find that your home feels a bit lifeless.
Start by adding a few easy-care plants in key areas of your home—like the living room, kitchen, or even the bathroom. Not only will they make your space look more vibrant, but they also improve air quality. If you’re worried about not having a green thumb, start with hard-to-kill plants like snake plants or pothos.
4. Ignoring Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood of a space. Harsh, bright lights can make a space feel sterile and uninviting. On the other hand, too dim lighting can make it feel dreary.
The key is to have a variety of light sources at different levels to create a warm, layered effect. Mix and match overhead lighting, floor lamps, table lamps, and even candles to create a cozy and welcoming ambiance. Also, make use of natural light as much as possible.
5. Keeping Walls Bare
While it’s important not to clutter your home, keeping your walls completely bare can make your home feel cold and impersonal.
Hang some artwork, family photos, or even a beautiful fabric piece to bring personality and warmth to your space. Remember to choose pieces that speak to you and reflect your personality. Your home should tell your story, and what better way to do that than through the art you display?
6. Overdoing Themes
While it’s nice to have a cohesive look in your home, overdoing a particular theme can make it feel more like a museum than a living space.
Instead of sticking rigidly to a single theme, try mixing elements from different styles to create a look that’s uniquely you. It’s okay to have a farmhouse table with mid-century modern chairs. The most important thing is that your home feels comfortable and authentic.
7. Using Harsh Chemical Cleaners
While cleanliness is important, using harsh chemical cleaners can make your home feel sterile and unwelcoming.
Try switching to natural, homemade cleaners. Not only are they better for the environment, but they also leave your home smelling fresh and natural, instead of like a hospital. Plus, making your own cleaning products can be a fun and satisfying DIY project.
8. Neglecting Personal Touches
A home without personal touches can feel impersonal and cold. It’s the little details that make a house a home.
Display items that have a personal significance for you. It could be a souvenir from a memorable vacation, a piece of art made by a loved one, or even a collection of your favorite books. These personal touches turn your home into a reflection of who you are and make it feel truly welcoming.
9. Ignoring the Entryway
Your entryway is the first impression guests have of your home. If it’s cluttered or impersonal, it doesn’t set a welcoming tone.
Spend some time making your entryway inviting. Add a small bench or a console table, hang a mirror, place a plant, and make sure there is a place for guests to put their coats and shoes. A welcoming entryway sets the tone for the rest of your home.
10. Saving the Best for Guests
Many people have a special set of dishes or linens that they only bring out for guests. But why not make every day feel special?
Use your best things regularly. Not only does this make your home feel more luxurious, but it also sends a message that you believe every day is worth celebrating. Plus, you’ll get more joy out of the things you love if you use them regularly. After all, isn’t that why you bought them in the first place?
By stopping these 10 habits, I’ve found that my home has become a much more welcoming place. I hope these tips inspire you to make some changes that will make your home feel more inviting too. After all, our homes should be places where we, and our guests, feel completely at ease.
