It’s a brand new year, and if you’re like most Americans, you’ve made a New Year’s resolution or two. Perhaps you’ve made a commitment to eat better or exercise more. But have you thought about resolutions you can make for your home? We’ve got some great ideas to help you make your home life better in 2020. Choose any one of these goals to make your home healthier, more efficient, and more beautiful in the coming year.
Clean out your cupboards
If you’ve made a resolution to eat healthier in the new year, then cleaning out your kitchen cupboards will fast-track you to success. Not only will you eliminate any trigger foods, but your kitchen will also feel cleaner. Plus you’ll be making room for healthier eating habits. Start by tossing out or donating all those holiday sweets that have been stockpiled since October. Then re-stock your staples like sugar, spices, and canned goods. Store healthy snacks in easy-to-reach places so you’ll be less tempted to grab that bag of potato chips when hunger strikes.
Make cleaning kits for each room
Everyone wants a clean bathroom and kitchen. But when you have to lug all your cleaning materials from one room to the next, you don’t always stick to a regular schedule. If keeping a cleaner home is on your to-do list for 2020, then get started by making cleaning kits for each room. Use a bucket or other tote to store cleaning products in each room so that you always have them handy when the mood strikes.
Prioritize safety
When was the last time you changed the batteries in your home smoke detectors? If the answer is more than six months ago you may be opening yourself up to risk. A great resolution is to prioritize safety and security. Make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers on every floor. And don’t forget to clean out the lint from your dryer. Dryer lint is highly combustible and causes more than 15,000 building fires each year.
De-clutter your possessions
Getting rid of unnecessary stuff is often a high-priority for more homeowners – but it doesn’t often get done. Make 2020 the year that you finally purge your clutter. Each month, tackle a new room and go through all the closets, cabinets, drawers, and storage containers. Let go of the things that you’ll never get around to repairing or will probably never use again. Donate or sell items that are still in good condition. By the end of the year, your home will feel clean, organized, and maybe even a little bigger!
Invite friends over
When was the last time you actually entertained in your home? Buying a home is one of life’s greatest pleasures, and you can experience even more joy when you share it with those you love. Make it a priority to host some kind of event in your home once a month. This can be a simple dinner with family, game night with your neighbors, or even a monthly book club. Arrange your furniture in a way that promotes conversation, and don’t be worried if your home doesn’t feel “perfect.” You’ll cherish the memories of the time spent together, and no one will remember that you had a sink full of dishes or a pile of laundry to fold in the guest bedroom.
