As the long winter months draw to a close, there is nothing more invigorating than embracing the arrival of spring with a rejuvenating refresh of your living space. The time-honored tradition of spring cleaning presents the perfect opportunity to not only deep clean your home, but to also reinvigorate it with energy, warmth, and a touch of creativity. While the task may seem daunting, I’ve found that breaking it down into manageable, and even enjoyable, activities can make all the difference. Here are the 14 things I do every spring to breathe new life into my home, making it a more inviting and inspiring place to live – and I hope they inspire you, too!
1. Deep Clean Carpets and Rugs
The winter months can be tough on our carpets and rugs, with the inclement weather often bringing in an influx of dirt and grime. As soon as spring arrives, I make it a priority to give them all a thorough deep cleaning. This not only helps to maintain their quality and longevity, but it also instantly refreshes the look and feel of my home. Rug cleaning can be a DIY job with a rented carpet cleaner or you can hire professionals to do it for you. Whichever you choose, remember to use a cleaning solution that is safe for your specific type of carpet or rug. Cleaning them not only removes dirt but also potential allergens, making your home healthier as well as more beautiful.
2. Refresh Wall Paint
Another great way of refreshing your home in spring is to give your walls a new coat of paint. This doesn’t always mean changing the color entirely; even a fresh coat of the same color can make a room feel cleaner and more vibrant. Choosing lighter, softer colors can help to create a bright and airy atmosphere that reflects the season. A good tip is to use leftover paint for this if you have it, as it ensures the color match is perfect. If you don’t have any leftover, taking a photo of your wall in natural light can help when trying to match the color at the store.
3. Declutter
Spring is the perfect time to declutter and get rid of items that you no longer need or use. This can be a therapeutic exercise, helping to eliminate unnecessary clutter that can contribute to feelings of stress and overwhelm. Start by categorizing items into what you want to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. Be ruthless in your decisions – if you haven’t used an item in over a year, chances are you can live without it. Decluttering can make your home feel more spacious and organized while also potentially benefiting others if you choose to donate items.
4. Swap Out Bedding
As the weather gets warmer, it’s a good idea to swap out your winter bedding for lighter, cooler options. This can make your sleep environment more comfortable, helping to ensure a good night’s sleep. Consider using materials like cotton or linen, which are breathable and excellent for wicking away moisture. Opting for lighter colors can also help to create a fresh, spring-like feel in your bedroom, making it a more enjoyable place to relax and unwind.
5. Update Window Treatments
Swapping heavy, dark window treatments for lighter, airier ones can instantly change the feel of a room. This can increase the amount of natural light in your home, making it feel more open and inviting. Consider options like sheer curtains or bamboo blinds, which can provide privacy while still allowing plenty of light to filter through. Remember, natural light can not only make your space feel bigger and brighter, it can also boost your mood and productivity.
6. Refresh Your Outdoor Space
With the arrival of warmer weather, it’s time to start thinking about your outdoor space. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a small balcony, making it feel inviting can enhance your enjoyment of the spring season. Start by cleaning any outdoor furniture and sprucing up your garden or planters with fresh flowers or new plants. Adding outdoor lighting, such as string lights or lanterns, can also create a cozy atmosphere for those beautiful spring evenings outdoors.
7. Clean Windows
Cleaning your windows inside and out can make a surprising difference in how much light enters your home, making it feel brighter and more welcoming. It’s a task that is often overlooked, but well worth the effort. While you can hire professionals to do this, it’s also something you can do yourself. A squeegee, a bucket of soapy water, and a bit of elbow grease can work wonders. Remember to choose a cloudy day for this task to avoid streaks.
8. Add Indoor Plants
Indoor plants can do wonders for your home, adding a touch of nature while also improving air quality. Plus, they can be a simple and inexpensive way to add color and interest to your space. Whether you opt for large, statement plants or smaller ones to adorn your windowsills and shelves, there are options to suit every home and lifestyle. Succulents, for example, require minimal care and can add a modern touch to your décor.
9. Update Art and Decor
Sometimes, simply rearranging your artwork or swapping out a few decorative items can give your home a fresh, new feel. This can be a fun and creative way to refresh your space without spending a lot of money. Consider changing the layout of your wall art or replacing heavy, winter-themed decor with lighter, brighter options. Even small changes can make a big difference, so don’t be afraid to experiment and see what works for your space.
10. Rearrange Furniture
Rearranging your furniture can completely transform your living space, making it feel new and exciting. Plus, it’s a cost-free way to refresh your home, making it a great option if you’re on a budget. Try moving your furniture away from the walls or creating new conversation areas. This can help to improve the flow of your space and can make it more functional and enjoyable to live in.
11. Organize Your Closet
Organizing your closet can not only make your mornings smoother, it can also make your space feel cleaner and more put-together. Plus, it gives you the chance to assess your wardrobe and get rid of any items you no longer wear. Try grouping similar items together and using storage solutions like boxes or baskets to keep everything organized. Remember, an organized closet can save you time and stress, making your daily routine easier and more efficient.
12. Update Lighting
Updating your lighting can significantly change the mood and feel of your home. Consider swapping out heavy, winter shades for lighter, more transparent ones, or adding additional sources of light to darker areas of your home. Remember, lighting isn’t just functional – it’s also a key element of your home’s decor. So, don’t be afraid to use it to create a certain atmosphere or to highlight specific features of your home.
13. Clean Appliances
Appliances are often overlooked during regular cleaning, but giving them a deep clean can make your home feel more hygienic and well-maintained. This includes everything from your oven and refrigerator to smaller appliances like your toaster and coffee maker. Remember, cleaning your appliances can not only improve their performance and lifespan, it can also prevent unpleasant odors and potential health risks.
14. Add Fresh Flowers
Finally, one of the simplest and most effective ways I refresh my home for spring is by adding fresh flowers. They not only add a burst of color and fragrance to your space, but they can also boost your mood and improve your mental well-being. Whether you opt for a large, dramatic arrangement or a series of smaller ones, fresh flowers can be a wonderful finishing touch to your spring home refresh. Remember, the best flowers are the ones you love – so choose ones that make you happy and reflect your personal style.