*This post contains "affiliate links," which means I may make a small commission if you make a purchase through a link. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Are you tired of your living space feeling lackluster and uninspiring? Imagine coming home to a beautiful home that reflects your personality and brings you peace after a long day. In this article, you will discover 10 budget-friendly tips to transform your home into the dream home you've always wanted. From repurposing furniture to decluttering and organizing, you'll learn how to create a cozy and stylish space without breaking the bank. Get ready to turn your home into the retreat you deserve! Repurpose Furniture for a Fresh Look If you want to inject personality and visual interest into your home without spending a fortune, consider repurposing your existing furniture for a fresh look. By thinking outside the box and getting creative with how you use your pieces, you can give your space a whole new vibe. Whether it's painting an old dresser a bold color, reupholstering a tired couch with a fun pattern, or transforming a coffee table into a stylish bench, there are endless possibilities when it comes to repurposing furniture. Not only is this a cost-effective way to update your decor, but it also adds a unique touch that reflects your style. This dining room furniture is circa 1996. Several years ago I repurposed it with chalk paint and new upholstery for the chairs. It was a labor of love (and hate!), but I am so happy with the result! Add a Pop of Color with Accent Walls Accent walls are a fantastic way to infuse a room with personality and create a focal point that draws the eye. By painting just one wall in a bold or contrasting color or choosing a beautiful, eye-catching wallpaper design, you can instantly transform the feel of a space without having to commit to updating the entire room. Whether you opt for a vibrant jewel tone, a soothing pastel, or a rich, earthy hue, an accent wall can add depth and visual interest to your home decor. Consider choosing a wall that already stands out or serves as a natural focal point, such as the one behind your bed, fireplace, or sofa, to make the most impact. This is not my master bedroom, but I am in the process of planning my master bedroom update, and yes, it will likely include an accent wall! For eye-catching, trending paint colors and peel-and-stick wallpaper ideas: 2024 Sherwin Williams Paint Trends | Benjamin Moore 2024 Color of the Year Pairings 2024 Sherwin Williams Color of the Year Pairings | Peel and Stick Wallpaper Peel and Stick Wallpaper Options "Your home should tell the story of who you are, and be a collection of what you love." – Nate Berkus Bring the Outdoors In with Indoor Plants Adding greenery to your living spaces not only brightens up the room but also improves air quality and reduces stress levels. Consider placing a variety of plants such as succulents, ferns, or peace lilies in different rooms to create a cohesive yet diverse botanical feel. Whether you opt for hanging plants, potted plants, or a mix of both, the presence of nature indoors can truly transform your home into a tranquil oasis. By bringing the outdoors in with indoor plants, you can create a calming and rejuvenating atmosphere that promotes well-being and tranquility throughout your home. If you don't have a green thumb, there are so many beautiful, nearly natural-looking faux plants available now. The important thing is to add greenery to your home! These are some of my favorite faux greenery finds: Faux Stems | Amazon Home Faux Stems | Artificial Indoor Plant Ideas Upgrade Lighting Fixtures for Instant Ambiance Upgrading your lighting fixtures can instantly transform the mood and aesthetic of your space, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Not only does it enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home, but it can also increase the value of your home, improve energy efficiency, and provide better-quality lighting. Making lighting updates can include your overhead lighting, wall lighting, as well as table and floor lamps. As you make changes to your home decor and the overall look of your home, it is important to also change your lighting to complement your current home decor and color scheme. This will create a more cohesive look in your home that ultimately results in a more inviting oasis. These lighting options will create the perfect update for your home: Natural Lighting Designs | Sconce Lighting Designs | Black & Gold Lighting Black Pendant Lights | Gold Pendant Lights | Wayfair Natural Lamps Walmart Lamp Designs | Anthropologie Lamp Designs | Luxe Lamp Designs Create Custom Artwork with DIY Projects Another budget-friendly way to elevate your home sanctuary is by creating custom artwork with DIY projects. Not only does this allow you to personalize your space with unique pieces, but it also adds a touch of creativity and authenticity to your home decor. Whether you are painting a canvas, repurposing old materials, or trying your hand at macrame, DIY artwork can be a fun and rewarding way to showcase your artistic skills while adding a personal touch to your home. So, get creative and start crafting your custom artwork to transform your home into a truly unique and personalized sanctuary. In each of these photos, I added a personal touch to create visual interest in each of these home decor items. I added a gold frame and dabbed Modge Podge to add texture to the canvas, used gold Rub'N Buff to add definition to the vase and the beads, and added gold Rub'N Buff to create a more finished look to the canvas. (PSA - I love to add gold accents to anything! Gold Rub'N Buff is one of my favorites!) Shop Secondhand for Unique Finds Another great way to find unique pieces for your dream home is by shopping secondhand. Thrift stores, consignment shops, flea markets, and online marketplaces are all excellent places to discover hidden gems that can add character and charm to your living space. By browsing through secondhand stores, you can unearth one-of-a-kind items that fit your style and budget perfectly, making your home truly special and personal. One of my favorite thrift store finds is old, worn, or vintage books! You can never have too many books in your home! Embrace the thrill of the hunt as you search for vintage furniture, retro decor, and eclectic accessories that speak to you. Not only will shopping secondhand save you money, but it will also give your home a distinct look that sets it apart from mass-produced, cookie-cutter designs. By incorporating pre-loved items into your decor, you can create a space that tells a story and reflects your unique taste and personality. Declutter and Organize Clearing out excess clutter and implementing smart storage solutions will not only create a sense of calm and tranquility but also make your space feel more spacious and inviting. Consider donating or selling items that no longer serve a purpose or bring you joy, and focus on keeping only the essentials that enhance your living environment. By strategically organizing your belongings, you can streamline your daily routine and promote a sense of order and serenity in your home. Remember, a clutter-free space is essential for achieving a peaceful and harmonious home living space. Anyone who knows me well knows that home organization is my love language! Some of my favorite home organizational tools include: Storage Baskets | Drawer Organization | Luxe Bathroom Organization Target Basket Finds | Shoe Organization Cabinets Invest in Multifunctional Furniture Pieces Investing in multifunctional furniture pieces is the next step in creating a versatile and efficient living space that accommodates your needs and lifestyle seamlessly. Look for pieces that serve dual purposes, such as a storage ottoman that also doubles as a coffee table or a sofa bed for guests. These types of furniture not only save space but also add functionality to your home. By choosing pieces that can adapt to different situations, you can optimize your living space and create a more dynamic and practical environment. With multifunctional furniture, you can enjoy the benefits of both form and function without sacrificing style or comfort. My coffee table is the perfect place to store extra throw pillows and seasonal pillow covers! For inspiration on furniture with storage options, click here. Mix and Match Textures for Visual Interest To elevate the visual appeal of your home, consider mixing and matching textures throughout your space. Incorporating different textures such as smooth leather, cozy knit blankets, and plush velvet pillows can add depth and character to your room. By combining textures, you create visual interest and a sense of warmth that can make your space feel more inviting and comfortable. Experiment with contrasting textures to create a dynamic environment that stimulates the senses and enhances the overall ambiance of your home. By mixing and matching, you will be able to craft a space that not only looks beautiful but also feels cozy and welcoming. For ideas on adding texture to your home: Wicker & Rattan | Pouf Ottomans | Amazon Home Picture Frames Blue Throw Pillows | Luxury Throw Pillow Covers | Super Soft Throw Blankets Accessorize with Budget-Friendly Decor Items Accessorize with budget-friendly decor items to add the finishing touches and complete the look. Shop for affordable options such as thrift finds, DIY projects, or budget-friendly online retailers to find unique pieces that reflect your style. Small items like throw pillows, candles, wall art, and decorative accents can greatly impact your home's overall aesthetic without breaking the bank. Don't be afraid to mix and match different styles to create a curated look that is uniquely yours. By incorporating budget-friendly decor items into your space, you can elevate the design and create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that enhances your home design. Some of my favorite budget-friendly home decor items include: Decorative Boxes | Coffee Table Books | Candles Vases & Vessels | Magnolia Home Spring Refresh Creating Your Dream Home: 10 Budget-Friendly Tips Incorporate these 10 budget-friendly tips to bring your dream home to life. Repurpose furniture, add pops of color, and introduce greenery to create a personal oasis. Upgrade lighting, declutter, and mix textures for an inviting space that resonates with your style. Start your journey to a cozy and stylish home today - the dream home you deserve is within reach. Remember, transforming your space doesn't have to break the bank - it's all about creativity and intention. As you embark on this journey, let your home be a reflection of your unique personality and a place of refuge from the outside world. Redefine your living space, and let your home speak volumes about who you are. As always, it's your design, your details, your home decor. Create something you will love!

*This post contains "affiliate links," which means I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase through a link. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Imagine walking into a home that instantly wraps you in warmth, comfort, and a sense of belonging. The kind of home that feels like a sanctuary, where you can truly be yourself and recharge from the chaos of the outside world. Don't we all need a safe, warm, relaxing space to come home to at the end of the day? If creating such a space seems like an elusive dream, this blog post is for you!! In this article, we will explore nine essential elements that can transform your house into a warm and inviting home. How to Make Your Home More Inviting From harnessing the power of natural light to curating cozy seating areas, we will dive into practical tips and inspiring ideas that will help you create the home of your dreams. So, whether you're a decor aficionado or simply someone who craves a welcoming atmosphere, get ready to discover the secrets to turning your house into a place that truly feels like home. Let in Natural Light One of the essential elements for creating a warm and inviting home is to embrace the power of natural light. Natural light has a way of transforming spaces, infusing them with a sense of warmth and vitality, and creating a welcoming space that radiates with comfort and joy. It's easy! Just open up those curtains or blinds during the day to let sunlight flood in. This simple act can instantly brighten up any room and make it feel more spacious and inviting. Another way to harness the power of natural light is by strategically placing mirrors throughout your home. Mirrors can act as reflectors, bouncing light around and creating the illusion of more space. By positioning mirrors opposite windows or in darker corners, you can amplify the amount of natural light in a room. The warmth and glow of sunlight can make a significant difference in the overall ambiance, making your home a place where you can relax, recharge, and truly feel at peace. Create a Comfortable Place to Sit Creating a comfortable place to sit is another essential element in creating a warm and inviting home. Whether you prefer a luxurious armchair or a comfortable sofa, the key is to prioritize comfort without sacrificing style. When selecting seating options for your home, consider furniture pieces that not only complement your existing decor but also provide ample support and cushioning. Look for chairs and sofas with deep seats and high-quality padding to ensure maximum comfort. Also, don't forget to pay attention to the fabric and texture of your seating. Soft, plush upholstery can instantly enhance the cozy factor of your home. By creating a comfortable place to sit, you'll not only invite relaxation and ease into your home but also set the stage for the next essential element: displaying soft throw pillows and blankets. "Home is not just a place, it's a feeling. It's where we find our center, our comfort, and our true selves." – Candice Olson Display Soft Throw Pillows and Blankets One of my favorite home decor recommendations is to never underestimate the power of beautiful throw pillows! These simple additions can instantly transform a plain chair or sofa into a cozy, welcoming space. Mixing and matching different textures, colors, and patterns will add visual interest while providing extra comfort. Blankets can be draped casually over the back of a sofa or folded neatly and placed on an armchair. Choose blankets that coordinate with your pillows and the overall color scheme of the room. The texture of the blanket, whether it's chunky knit, faux fur, or a soft cotton throw, can also contribute to the overall cozy atmosphere. With soft throw pillows and blankets, you can create an inviting atmosphere that beckons family and friends to relax and unwind. To see some of my favorite throw pillows and blankets, click the links below: Luxury Pillow Covers | Super Soft Throw Blankets | Custom-Made Pillow Covers Beautiful Throw Pillows | Neutral Throw Pillows Keep Your Home at a Comfortable Temperature Keeping your home at a comfortable temperature is crucial in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. No one wants to enter a space that's too hot or too cold—finding that perfect balance is key. In the colder months, there's nothing quite like stepping into a pleasantly heated home. On the other hand, during warmer seasons, it's important to keep your home cool and refreshing. You may want to invest in a reliable programmable thermostat that will allow you to easily regulate the temperature of your home. By maintaining a comfortable temperature, you create an environment that promotes relaxation and makes guests feel welcome. Have Coasters and Side Tables for Drinks I know this may sound like such a small gesture, but having coasters or side tables for drinks is not only practical but they can also be decorative accents that add a personalized touch to your space. Choose coasters that complement your home decor, whether they be rustic wooden coasters or elegant marble ones. If you have the space, side tables are a wonderful addition to any living area. They provide a convenient surface to place drinks, snacks, or even books and magazines. Although it may seem like an insignificant thing to do, the presence of coasters or side tables shows that you've considered the comfort and convenience of yourself and your guests, creating an atmosphere that is warm, welcoming, and enjoyable. Beautiful Side Table Ideas: Side Tables | More Side Tables Stylish Coaster Sets: Coaster Sets Light Candles and Lamps Not only is natural light an important element of a welcoming home, but candles and lamps also play a vital role in creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. The gentle glow of a candle can instantly soothe the mind and create a sense of calmness. Place them on coffee tables, mantelpieces, or even in the bathroom to create a spa-like ambiance. Just remember to always practice safety and never leave candles unattended. Lamps, on the other hand, are the perfect combination of style and function for your home. Table lamps can serve as functional bedside companions or decorative accents on side tables, casting a soft glow that invites relaxation. Floor lamps can illuminate dark corners or be used to create cozy reading nooks. Candles and lamps provide a soft and diffused light that is ideal for unwinding after a long day or hosting cozy gatherings with loved ones. Shop the links below for stunning lamp and candle decor ideas: Decorative Candles | Anthropologie Lamps | Luxury Lamp Designs Amazon Lamp Finds | Floor Lamps Open Walkways in Your Home Creating open walkways in your home not only ensures that your home is visually inviting but also has a practical flow. By designing pathways that are spacious and unobstructed, you can enhance the overall comfort and functionality of your living space. Open walkways make it easier to move around your home, creating a sense of openness and freedom and improving the overall flow of your home. Take a look at your furniture arrangements and remove any unnecessary items that may be blocking the flow between rooms. Consider rearranging furniture to create clear paths and ensure that there is enough space for people to walk comfortably without bumping into objects. Creating open walkways allows natural light to flow through your space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. This sense of openness can have a significant impact on how inviting and welcoming your home feels to both you and your guests. Get Rid of Clutter Clutter can be a major deterrent when it comes to creating a warm and inviting home. It not only takes up physical space but also adds a sense of chaos and unease to your surroundings. By decluttering your space, you can instantly transform the atmosphere and make it more inviting for both you and your guests. Start by tackling one room at a time. Assess each item and ask yourself if it serves a purpose or brings you joy. If not, it may be time to let go. For items that you choose to keep, find a designated place for them. Invest in storage solutions such as baskets, bins, or shelves to help keep things organized. Remember, decluttering is an ongoing process. It's important to regularly assess your belongings and let go of things that no longer serve you. This not only keeps clutter at bay but also allows space for new experiences and opportunities to enter your life. My Favorite Storage Basket Ideas: Target Home Baskets | Basket Storage Ideas Display Real Plants and Greenery Displaying real plants and greenery allows you to add a touch of nature to your living space that will enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your home. They create a calming a soothing atmosphere, making your home feel like the perfect place to unwind and recharge. To make the most of your green display, place plants strategically throughout your home - on empty windowsills, bookshelves, side tables, or unused corners to breathe life into these spaces. Experiment with different sizes, textures, and heights to achieve a balanced and aesthetically pleasing arrangement. And if you are not blessed with a green thumb or struggle to keep real plants alive, faux greenery can create the same aesthetic effect on your home. There are so many beautiful faux plant options available these days so your home will still be able to display a natural, inviting atmosphere that welcomes you and your guests with open arms. Beautiful Faux Plant & Tree Options: Indoor Plant Ideas | Amazon Faux Stems So, Get Started on Creating Your Warm, Inviting Home... Incorporating these nine essential elements into your home will do more than just create a warm and inviting space; it will transform your house into a beautiful space that reflects your unique style and personality. From embracing natural light to decluttering and adding touches of greenery, each element plays a vital role in creating the home of your dreams. As you start implementing these ideas today, remember that a warm and inviting home isn't just about the physical aspects, but also about the emotions and memories that are created within its walls. Begin your journey now, and with each element you incorporate, watch as your house transforms into the warm and inviting home you've always dreamed of. As always, it's your design, your details, your home decor. Create something you will love!

*This post contains "affiliate links," which means I may make a small commission if you make a purchase through a link. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Are you tired of spending your weekends cleaning up a cluttered and messy home? According to a survey by the American Cleaning Institute, the average American spends six hours per week on household cleaning tasks. That's a whopping 312 hours a year! 6 Simple Things to Do for a Clean Home Having a clean and organized home is something we all strive for, but with busy schedules and hectic lifestyles, it can be challenging to maintain. However, by implementing these six simple tasks into your daily routine, you can easily keep your home tidy and clutter-free. Make Your Bed Every Morning Ok, I know what you may be thinking - why make the bed when you are just going to get back in it tonight? Or you may say you don't have time to make your bed every day. If so, you are not alone! These are the most common reasons given for not making the bed daily. Think about it this way - making your bed every morning brings a sense of accomplishment and gives you a fresh start to the day. I am not saying you have to make it perfect every morning, but just simply pulling the covers up and placing the pillows neatly on the bed will give your bedroom a much neater appearance. Just think how nice it will be to come home to a tidy bedroom space after a long day at work! Pulling back those covers will be the perfect bookend to your day. And you didn't have to put forth much effort to add this small task into your daily routine. So it's a win-win! Time Saver Tip: Fold your duvet, coverlet, or comforter down neatly to the bottom of the bed each night. Sleep with a blanket instead. This will make it easier to pull your top bedding layer back up each morning! Wash a Load of Laundry Daily If washing clothes is your least favorite chore, then you may think I am crazy to suggest this as something you need to do daily. However, depending on the size of your family, it may not be necessary to do a load daily, but you may want to consider doing a load at least 2-3 times a week. By doing a load of laundry daily (or whatever works best for your home), you likely won't have to spend your entire Saturday washing multiple loads of clothes. You can spend quality time with your family and friends without worrying about what you may need to be doing at home. Time Saver Tip: Organize your laundry in a hamper with multiple compartments. Choose to do towels one day, whites another day, darks the next, and so on. "The objective of cleaning is not just to clean, but to feel happiness living within that environment." – Marie Kondo Keep Kitchen Countertop Clutter-Free If your home is anything like mine, your kitchen tends to be the catch-all for literally anything that is brought into your home - groceries, prescriptions, mail, packages, items from work, etc. It is just so easy to walk in after a long day and place these items on the kitchen counter. All of this clutter on the kitchen countertops gives your home an unorganized, unkept appearance that likely continues to grow daily. You may come in and just keep adding the pile of mail or stack of paperwork from work until your kitchen space is a cluttered mess. Keep this in mind - your kitchen is the heart of your home! This one room is where you and your family spend the most time together. So, create a clutter-free space that you will enjoy making precious memories in and look forward to coming home to. Time Saver Tip: If you don't have an office or another area to keep the items that tend to clutter your kitchen countertops, designate one area and utilize decorative baskets or bins to help corral the clutter. This will ensure that your countertops remain clutter-free and your kitchen space remains the heart of your home! For more inspiration on a clean kitchen space, CLICK HERE for the 7 Day Kitchen Deep Clean Challenge. Go Through Mail As Soon As It Arrives Yes, we are all guilty of coming in and throwing the mail in a pile on the kitchen counter or in our office. Before you know it, the pile has grown into a huge stack and the thought of going through it is a daunting task. As with your kitchen countertops, designate a specific area for going through the mail. Hey! It's an excuse for another cute decorative bin or basket. But don't let the basket get too full or you will be overwhelmed with processing a large stack of mail. Time Saver Tip: Sort out junk mail immediately and throw it away or shred it. Only place important mail in your bin or basket to go through later. Check out these beautiful baskets for storage and organization inspiration Target Storage Baskets | Storage Baskets Load & Empty Dishwasher Daily Loading and emptying your dishwasher every day may rank up there with washing a load of laundry daily! But, by doing this, your kitchen sink will not be full of dishes which will prevent your kitchen area from looking messy and cluttered. Instead of waiting until your dishwasher is full, try turning it on every night after dinner and unloading it in the morning (or when you get home from work - whatever works best for you!) This will allow you to put dirty dishes right into the dishwasher rather than piling them up in the sink. Time Saver Tip: Running the dishwasher daily with smaller loads will allow you to unload the dishwasher quicker. Staying on top of this chore will take less time in the long run. Sweep High Traffic Areas Everyday I will be honest - this is something I need to work on! I can't stand to look down and see grass, food, dust, etc. on my floors. Now that we have little (grandson) feet running around our home again, our floors seem to be a hot mess most of the time! Purchase a good quality broom, handheld vacuum, or stick vacuum, and make a point to sweep the high traffic areas each night after dinner or after the kids go to bed. By doing this simple task, you will prevent dirt and debris from spreading throughout your home. Time Saver Tip: Use a small handheld broom and dustpan or handheld vacuum to clean up spills and dirt that you see throughout the day so you have less to sweep up at the end of the day. Again, this will prevent the mess from being tracked to other areas of your home. CLICK HERE for great ideas for cleaning tools for your floors. In a world where time is a precious commodity and cleanliness is key for health and well-being, it can be overwhelming to maintain a clean home. However, by implementing just six simple tasks into your daily routine, you can easily keep your home tidy and organized. Remember, a clean home is a reflection of a clear mind and it all starts with taking small steps towards cleanliness. By implementing these 6 simple things to do for a clean home, you will say goodbye to overwhelming cleaning sessions and hello to a consistently clean home without sacrificing your precious free time! And remember, the journey to a clean home is an ongoing one, so keep learning, keep adapting, and keep writing your own rules for a happy and tidy home. CLICK HERE for the Ultimate Deep Cleaning Checklist - One Room at a Time.

* This post contains "affiliate links," which means I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase through a link. As as Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. After the holiday season, it can be hard to go back to the same home that you were in before Christmas. Things can start to feel a little bit dull, a little bit boring, and that can make it difficult to be productive and have a positive attitude throughout the day. But don’t worry—here are 5 simple ideas that can help you give your home a refresh for the New Year. Dust and Deep Clean I love decorating my home for Christmas and enjoying the vibrant lights and colors of the season, but when it is over, I am that person who is ready to take it all down and start fresh. If your home looks anything like mine after taking our Christmas decorations, this is the perfect time for a good deep clean! Take everything out of your bookshelves, remove all of your home decor, and dust everything well. This can make your home look instantly more refreshed. Add Real Plants Real plants help to add life to any room and can be a great way to keep your home looking and feeling fresh. I know many of you may think “I do not have a green thumb!” To be honest, I still feel that way at times. Over the years, I have learned what plants work in my home and what doesn’t. If you don’t think you are up to the challenge of real plants, there are so many great options for artificial plants these days. Adding plants to your home not only adds a splash of color but also breathes life into the design of your room. Click here for beautiful artificial plant ideas. Change Things Around Take some of the furniture and decorations in your home and move them to different locations. This simple change can make your home feel new again. It can be as simple as swapping your area rugs, lamps, or throw pillows from one room to another, moving your sofa to another wall in your living room, or rearranging the decorative items on your coffee table, side tables, and in your bookshelves! Just by doing these things, you can create a fresh, new look for your home. Add a Few New Items If you’re feeling particularly inspired, buy a few new pieces of furniture or decorations to add to your home. This can help to give the space an even bigger refresh. Consider buying new lamps or a new rug, adding a large mirror to your living room, buying new accent chairs, or just adding a throw blanket or a few new decorative items! It might be helpful to commit to buying one new item each month if the thought of buying multiple items at once is overwhelming! Just make a small change – you will be so surprised how big the impact can be in your home. For home accent ideas to refresh the look of your home, choose from some of these beautiful options. Super Soft Throw Blankets | Home Decor Inspo | Shelf Decor Must Haves Home Decor Accents | Trendsetting Decorative Bowls | Candle Holders Decorative Boxes | Amazon Home Wall Mirrors | Studio McGee Accent Chairs Pouf Ottomans | Wayfair Sofa Edit | Round Coffee Tables | Amazon Home Coffee Tables Change Pillow Covers Change the pillow covers in your living room or bedroom to give the room a whole new aesthetic. This is one change that I have been making over the last couple of years and I love it! I am always looking for new pillow covers for my living room and bedroom spaces to give each room an updated look without having to make any major changes. I encourage you to purchase high quality pillow inserts and then purchase as many pillow covers as you like for your inserts! Have fun with changing your pillow covers – change them every season, every holiday, or even every month if you want. Just do it and enjoy the fresh, updated look each time! Click here for my favorite pillow inserts! For some eye-catching pillow cover ideas, choose from these amazing ideas. Beautiful Custom Made Pillow Covers | Boho Throw Pillows | Beautiful Throw Pillows | Neutral Throw Pillows * read the descriptions closely as some of these may be pillows and not just pillow covers! Refresh Your Home - Create a New Look for the New Year Refresh your home after the holidays with these simple tips. Don’t be afraid to be creative and take chances with how you want to change the look of the room. It’s also important to remember that even the smallest changes can make a huge difference. I can’t stress this enough! You don’t have to make any major changes or break the bank to create a fresh, new look for your home!

*This post contains "affiliate links," which means I may make a small commission if you make a purchase through a link. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Have you had the same home decor trends for several years? Is it time to upgrade and refresh your home from outdated trends? Before you make any major changes, keep in mind that the most important part of home design is to create a home that not only meets the functional needs of your family but also showcases your personality and style. However, if you love to keep your home up-to-date and stylish, we will look at 6 home decor trends that are on the way out for 2024. Avoid 6 Outdated Home Trends If you are ready to eliminate outdated home trends in your home, we have the ultimate guide to bringing your living space into the trendy realm of 2024. This post will walk you through the dos and don'ts of home trends for the upcoming year, ensuring you sidestep common decor mistakes and keep your home looking fresh and up-to-date. It's time to give your living space a well-deserved facelift by avoiding these six home decor trends in 2024. Are you ready to embark on this journey? Your stylish and up-to-date home awaits! Ditch the Different: Embrace a Consistent Color Palette For many years, there seemed to be an unwritten rule to paint each room or even each wall of your home a different color. You may have one paint color in your main living space, a contrasting color in your living or dining room, and different wall colors in every bedroom. If so, choosing a consistent paint palette is an easy way to update your home design. Having multiple paint colors throughout your home can make a home feel disjointed. But don't be alarmed - having a consistent color theme doesn't mean your home will be dull or boring. Instead, it offers a sense of cohesiveness that will create a sense of unity throughout your home. One way to embrace consistency is by selecting a color palette that complements your chosen style and carries throughout your home. This doesn't mean you have to paint every wall the same color, but rather, choose colors that harmonize with each other and create a seamless transition from one space to another. By adopting a consistent style throughout your home, you create a visual flow that instantly elevates the overall aesthetic. Say Goodbye to Heavy Curtains: Say Hello to Light and Airy I have to admit this outdated trend is one that I am happy to leave in the past. We have all had heavy, ornate valances and curtains at some point in our homes. You may still have them today. You probably spent a good bit of money on them, hate to get rid of them, and have likely decorating your home based on these curtains. If you are looking for an easy way to update your home in 2024, this is one way to do it! Heavy curtains not only weigh down your space but also block out natural light and prevent the flow of air. They tend to make a room feel stuffy and outdated. Embracing lighter and airier alternatives will modernize your living space and create a sense of openness and freshness. So, say goodbye to heavy curtains that suffocate your windows and welcome in sheer curtains, bamboo blinds, or even delicate lace panels. These light and airy window coverings let in ample light while still providing a touch of privacy. By embracing these alternatives, you'll create a more inviting and comfortable living environment. Click here for eye-catching Bamboo Blind designs. Break Free from Matchy-Matchy: Mix and Match Well, this is another trend that I am happy to leave behind. I am certainly guilty of buying matching furniture sets and feeling the need to match everything in my previous homes. Let's be honest - being matchy-matchy is easier and more convenient, but it is one of the most common outdated home trends. I am so excited that the year 2024 calls for a departure from everything matching! You can choose a more eclectic approach that reflects your personality and adds a unique touch to your space. Don't be afraid to pair a contemporary sofa with a vintage coffee table or incorporate a bold patterned armchair into an otherwise minimalistic living room. This mixture of styles and eras adds visual interest and creates a dynamic energy within your space. Incorporating different materials and textures is another way to break free from matchy-matchy. For example, combining a sleek marble countertop with rustic wooden cabinets in your kitchen can create a captivating contrast. Experiment with different combinations and let your creativity guide you. By embracing this mix-and-match mentality, you will be able to create a space that is as unique and individual as you are. Move on from Word Sign Art: Choose Abstract Pieces As we look forward to 2024, it is essential to recognize that certain trends have reached their expiration date. Word sign art is a trend that has overstayed its welcome. Word sign art, such as "Live, Laugh, Love" and "Gather," is meant to evoke a sense of sentimentality or motivation, but they now feel overused and lack the personal touch needed to make a statement in your home. Home design in 2024 calls for uniqueness and individuality. In place of word art, consider opting for more abstract pieces that reflect your personality and taste. Instead of spelling it out for everyone, let your style do the talking through art and decor that says something about you. By moving on from word sign art, you open your home to a world of creative possibilities. Whether it's abstract art, oil paintings, family photos, or a gallery wall, create wall decor design that speaks to your personality and style and tells a story about you and your home. For inspiration on wall decor ideas, check out some of these beautiful options; Blue Wall Art | Amazon Home Wall Mirrors | Neutral Wall Decor | Wooden Wall Mirrors Abstract Wall Art | Gallery Wall Sets | Abstract Wall Art Say Goodbye to Symmetry: Embrace Eclectic Now, let's talk about the importance of saying goodbye to symmetry, and, instead, wholeheartedly embrace the beauty of curated chaos in your home. Oh! I know what you may be thinking - that you love order, structure, and organization. Well, that is something I can relate to very well, so this outdated home trend has been a work in progress for me over the last few years. Gone are the days of identical nightstands flanking the bed or matching table lamps symmetrically placed on either side of the sofa. Now you are free to mix and match different styles, colors, and textures to create a visually engaging space. Think of it as an artistic collage, where each piece has its own story to tell. Have fun with breaking the rules of symmetry. Place an oversized piece of artwork off-center on the wall, or play with different heights, sizes, and shapes when arranging furniture, and don't be afraid to mix vintage pieces with modern ones. Create unexpected color combinations by pairing bold hues with muted shades or contrasting complementary colors. Allow patterns and textures to coexist in harmony, whether it's a floral wallpaper paired with a geometric rug or a velvet sofa next to a leather armchair. The beauty of embracing a more eclectic design is the freedom it offers to showcase your unique personality and style. It's about curating a space that reflects your individuality and tastes, rather than conforming to the norms of traditional design. For great furniture and home decor ideas to create your eclectic home design, choose from some of these beautiful options: Wayfair Sofa Edit | Round Coffee Tables | Rectangle/Square Coffee Tables Pouf Ottomans | Accent Chairs | Gold/Cream Coffee Table Decor Side Tables | Neutral Home Decor | Home Decor Inspo | Shelf Decor Must Haves Don't Focus on One Home Decor Style: Do What is True to You Is your home decor based solely on one home decor style? Are you tired of your current home decor style but can't settle on just one look? If so, it's time to consider taking a different approach and embracing the idea of mixing and matching decorating styles. There are so many options to choose from - traditional or contemporary, modern or mid-century modern, eclectic or shabby chic, modern farmhouse or rustic - the list goes on and on. Mixing and matching home decor styles is a trick interior designers frequently if not always use to add depth and character to a home living space. Combining two decorating styles not only keeps your home from looking too "theme-y" and boring but it also prevents you from getting rid of everything when trends go out of style. The best tip for mixing and matching home decor styles is to follow the 80/20 rule - 80% of your space should be your main decor style (larger pieces of furniture, rugs, wall art, and the majority of your accessories) while the other 20% should be your next favorite style. For example, if your main decor style is traditional, you could add a more modern or contemporary accent to your room, such as geometric accessories or a lucite side table. Or if your home has a more modern look, you could add a vintage chair or your grandmother's antique armoire to add an eye-catching decor feature to your space. Whether you love traditional and modern, classic or contemporary, or rustic and luxurious, there are endless combinations that can result in the perfect home. Keep in mind that the rules of decorating are not written in stone - feel free to bend or break the rules to create a home living space you will love. "The details are not the details. They make the design." - Charles Eames Revamp Your Home with Confidence As we usher in 2024, we welcome the exciting and unexpected mix of colors, patterns, and textures that the eclectic style brings. By embracing this approach, you have the opportunity to create a home that is truly one-of-a-kind. Revamping your home with confidence means breaking free from the constraints of conventional design and exploring your creative potential. It's about being fearless in your choices and trusting your instincts. Don't be afraid to mix different styles, eras, and influences to create a space that is uniquely yours. Start by reassessing your existing pieces. Look beyond their original purpose and consider how they can be repurposed or incorporated into a new design scheme. Let your imagination run wild when it comes to colors, patterns, and textures. Experiment with bold hues and unexpected combinations, mix different patterns, such as florals, stripes, and geometrics, and incorporate elements like woven baskets, velvet upholstery, or natural fibers. Don't forget about the power of personal touches. Display cherished moments, family heirlooms, or handmade items that tell a story and reflect your personal history. These unique pieces will not only make your space feel more authentic but will also spark conversation and bring joy to your everyday life. In summary, the dos and don'ts of home trends for 2024 have been laid out for you. So, go ahead and experiment with new design elements, mix and match, and let your creativity soar. A fresh and up-to-date home awaits you - one that reflects your unique style and personality. Take action now and transform your living space into a vibrant sanctuary that brings you joy every day. As always, it's your design, your details, your home decor. Create something you will love!

*This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission for purchases made through a link or click at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Looking to spruce up your living space and add some character? Throw pillows are the perfect way to bring a unique atmosphere to any room with minimal effort! In this blog post, you'll learn 4 simple rules to help you utilize throw pillows to decorate your home. Whether your taste leans towards the eclectic, the traditional, the modern, or the fun and funky, throw pillows are a great way to add personality to your living space. From incorporating color and texture to showing off your individual style, decorative pillows are a simple but powerful way to express yourself. Choose an Anchor Color When choosing throw pillows for your space, it is important to know the color palette of your room. To create a cohesive look, you will need to consider what you already have in your room such as your artwork, sofa or bedding, and rug. Then choose one dominant color that will anchor or bring together all of the colors in your space. I like to use one solid color pillow and incorporate or blend that color into the other pillows to create a coordinated look. Mix and Match Patterns and Textures While choosing an anchor color is important, it is equally as important to add an element of texture and pattern to your throw pillow design. You can mix and match pillows that are soft and smooth, fuzzy and rough, with fringe, embroidery, or beadwork, faux fur or velvet, linens, and knits, floral or striped - the options are endless! Combine your solid pillow with one or two pillows with texture or a pattern for a more interesting look in your living room, bedroom, or entryway. "I believe that a home should look like the person who inhabits it, not a catalogue, not what you think others would like - but really, truly like you." – Emily Henderson Use a Variety of Shapes and Sizes When choosing your throw pillows, choose pillows of varying shapes and sizes. Whether you are placing throw pillows on your sofa or your bed, styling with different sizes and shapes will add visual interest to your room. Consider the size of your sofa or bed - you don't want to take up all of your sitting space with throw pillows or use too many pillows for your bed size. Remember the rule of 3's - group pillows of varying shapes, sizes, textures, and colors in groups of 3! Experiment with Neutral or Bold Colors Choosing the right colors will be key to getting the effect you want. Bold colors can offer a pop of character and draw attention to specific pieces of furniture or decorations in your home. If you’d prefer a more subtle approach, opt for lighter and more muted colors to complement the existing décor of your home. On a personal note, I have never been one to choose bold colors - I guess I prefer a monochromatic color palette. After moving into our home in 2020, I realized that I needed some guidance on creating a cohesive look between our living room and sunroom and enlisted the help of a local mom-and-daughter home design team to create a beautiful space that I just could not envision. Y'all - they knocked it out of the park! I came home from my school nurse job to a living room and sunroom space better than I could have imagined...with a bold pop of color. So, be willing to step out of your comfort zone and create a space that you will love as much as I love mine! More Tips on How to Decorate with Throw Pillows... Consider the aesthetic of your room - Choose throw pillows that complement your space and add visual interest and dimension to your room. Consider the season - Choose throw pillows based on the season of the year. Use heavier fabrics and textures in fall and winter followed by florals and pastels in spring and summer. Consider the number of pillows - Choose what works best for your home and your space. If you prefer symmetry and balance, use an even number of pillows on your bed or sofa. If a modern or contemporary style is best for you, choose an odd number of pillows (three or five) based on your space. The power of a good pillow design should never be underestimated! Throw pillows are the perfect way to add texture and character to any room. Whether your style is classic and understated or bold and daring, you can find the perfect way to decorate your home that fits your personality. Follow the 4 simple rules outlined in this post and you can confidently use throw pillows to spruce up your space. Happy decorating with throw pillows! Leave a comment below and let me know how it goes. To see more throw pillow designs, check these out...

*This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission for purchases made through a link or click at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Do you need to simplify and declutter your home? Does the thought of decluttering make you feel anxious and stressed? This simple 30-day decluttering challenge is a great place to start! Each day you will tackle one room, one drawer, or one area of your home and spend 30 minutes to an hour focused only on that one task. Are you overwhelmed with the idea of decluttering your home? You know it needs to be done, but you have no idea how and where to begin? If you answered yes to both of those questions, I can assure you that you are not alone! Knowing that you need to declutter your home is the easy part. The hard part is first, finding the motivation to get started; second, deciding how and where to start; and third, finding the time to do it. Well, let me tell you…I know exactly how you feel. As much as I love to live in a clutter-free, well-organized home, putting in the work and time to keep it that way is a daunting task! I often find it difficult to stay focused on just one area of my home at a time without walking into another area and realizing it needs to be decluttered as well. So, I have created this simple 30-day decluttering challenge as a guide to help you (and me!) take control of the clutter and create a home living space that you love coming home to. Where to start? Begin with the mindset that you will have to let things go. You can’t and don’t need to keep everything. Not only is it difficult to get motivated to declutter your home, but it is also hard to let go of some things. We often keep items for sentimental reasons or because we might use them someday. It is important to ask yourself when you last used the item or last wore that article of clothing. If you haven’t used or worn the item in a year, it’s time to let it go. Use bins or bags to create a 3-way system of decluttering. One bin or bag for throwing away, one for donating, and one for keeping. As you go through each area of your home, create a space to set up this 3-way system. This will help you make decisions about items that you haven’t used or worn or that are broken and need to be replaced. Keep in mind – you could sell some of the items or take them to a consignment shop to make a little money as well! Get rid of the items you choose not to keep immediately. Make sure you take your “throw away” items to the trash and your “donate” items to your local charity immediately after decluttering an area. The longer the items remain in your home, the more likely you are to decide to keep them. Start small! Don’t start with a large area or an area that has a lot of clutter. By starting in a smaller area, such as your kitchen utensil drawer or your dresser drawers, you will be less likely to get overwhelmed and more likely to continue with the daily challenge. Save the bigger and more daunting areas for later in the challenge. As you go through the decluttering challenge, my hope is that the task of decluttering will get easier and you will begin to see the benefits of doing all of this work to create a clutter-free, well-organized home for yourself. " Bottom line is, if you do not use it or need it, it's clutter, and it needs to go." - Charise Ward 30-DAY HOME DECLUTTERING CHALLENGE This 30-day decluttering challenge is set up to tackle one room or area of your home per week. Each day you will declutter a certain area in that room and by the end of the week, you will be so pleased with the result! #1 - Kitchen area Your kitchen is where you and your family spend a great deal of time, and where we all seem to accumulate a lot of clutter. With this challenge, you will focus on certain items and areas to get you started on decluttering your kitchen space. Organizing your Tupperware, kitchen drawers, pots and pans, or dishtowels first is the best way to "start small" in your kitchen. Once you have accomplished these, then consider moving to bigger areas, like your pantry! It can be a daunting task to declutter your pantry! Click here for some great organizational ideas for your kitchen space. #2 - Closet and Bedroom Do you have clothes and shoes that you haven’t worn in quite a while? Are you keeping that little black dress or your favorite boots because you “might need them one day?” I get it! We all do it! But now it is time to take a long, hard look at your clothes, shoes, purses, accessories, etc., and get rid of anything you haven’t worn or used in the last year! Oh! While you are in your bedroom, don’t forget to organize your nightstand! Nightstands tend to be a catch-all space in our bedrooms. Clean the clutter off the top and go through the drawers and throw stuff away! You don’t need worn-out charger cords, old receipts, old books, or anything else that is cluttering up your nightstand. Click here to see some of my favorite closet organization items. #3 - Living Room After a long day at work, who wants to come home and relax in a cluttered living room space? I am sure none of us do, but as with other rooms in our home, our living room also frequently collects the clutter from our daily lives. Let’s start with getting rid of old, worn-out pillows and home décor items. This is the time to get rid of home décor items that you don’t like, that don’t match, or that you are keeping because you might put them somewhere else one day. On a positive note, by getting rid of the old, worn-out stuff, you will have the opportunity to update your living space with some new pillows and accessories to give your living room a fresh, new look. Don’t forget to throw out old electronics, charger cords, magazines, and books! Buy stylish storage baskets for your kids' toys or throw blankets that can create a cluttered look in your living room. Click here to see some of my favorite storage baskets. #4 - Bathroom Bathrooms! Oh, the potential for clutter is huge in your bathrooms! We have beauty products, hair products, soaps, bottles, towels, washcloths, and so on. Similar to your kitchen, in your bathroom you will need to focus on one area at a time to avoid getting overwhelmed. Go through your towels and washcloths – get rid of any that are old and worn out. Also, do the same with your hair brushes, hair dryers, curling irons, electric razors, etc. Remove everything from your bathroom drawers. Clean the drawers well and place organizers in the drawers so that everything will have a place. And, go through your makeup – get rid of makeup you no longer wear, half-used tubes of lipstick, the samples you don’t like or won’t use, and any expired makeup. Click here for great organizational ideas for your bathroom. #5 - Office If your home has an office space, you know that it can also be a catch-all space for clutter! I hate to admit but that is the case in my home! Decluttering my office seems to be a weekly task for me. Start with sorting through all of the paper and mail that is lying around. Organize them into stacks. File them accordingly. Go through pens, pencils, and highlighters – throw out the ones that don’t work. Throw away old receipts! Or, if you need to keep them, designate a box or file for important receipts. If you have any mystery cords or cables and outdated computers or software, get rid of those as well. Click here for home office organization ideas. #6 - Miscellaneous There are so many other areas of our homes that accumulate clutter. So, spend this week going through areas that you need to focus on in your home. Get rid of old paint per your local disposal guidelines. Organize your laundry room. Go through your cleaning supplies and throw away bottles that are almost empty or products that are expired. Be sure to get rid of expired medications – this one is also a plug from the nurse in me! Please do not keep a bottle of medicine that expired 5 years ago! Spend some time in your garage or storage rooms and get rid of old tools and equipment. Lastly, here are a few tips to help you get through the decluttering process without getting too overwhelmed… Turn on some music or a podcast. Allow yourself a certain amount of time for each project and do your best to remain focused on that one task. If you are having a hard time with sentimental items, consider giving the items to another family member. Find a creative way to keep some of the most sentimental items. And try not to feel guilty because it is impossible to keep everything. For those items that you just can’t part with, find a storage system that works best for you. I have storage bins in the top of my closet with a variety of items that are special to me. When we recently moved, I went through an attic full of my kids’ artwork, old high school, and college memories, etc., and scaled it down to those items that I treasured the most. By doing this, you will feel like you are keeping some of your favorite sentimental memories and hopefully feel less guilty about getting rid of the others. " Being organized isn't about getting rid of everything you own or trying to become a different person. It's about living the way you want to live, but better." - Andrew Mellen Why do we need to declutter our homes? In this day and time, we are all so busy! So, it is easy to come home and throw things down. Before we know it, our home is cluttered with mail, worn-out home and clothing items, papers, magazines books, and so much more. Eventually, it becomes an overwhelming task when you sit back and think, “How can I declutter and organize my home?” This is why I created a 30-day challenge to declutter your home. If you spend a little time each day focusing on one area or room, at the end of the 30 days will see the benefits of having a clutter-free home. You will enjoy the look and feel of your home! You will look forward to coming home to a warm, inviting space! You will feel less anxiety and stress in the end! Download your free 30-day decluttering challenge today and get started! You will be so glad you did! I have also included a blank 30-day challenge planner for you to complete if you need to develop a personalized plan for your home. Good luck and happy decluttering! CLICK HERE FOR YOUR FREE 30-DAY HOME DECLUTTERING CHALLENGE!

*This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission for purchases made through a link or click at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Join the challenge and clean your kitchen with a methodical and purposeful approach that will leave your kitchen looking bright and shiny in just 7 days! With this challenge, you will deep clean each area of your kitchen one day at a time. Each day, you will choose one area of your kitchen to clean, from drawers and cabinets to fridge, freezer, and pantry. Plus, get rid of any unused, broken, or retired items you may have stored up. By the end of the week, your kitchen will be spotless! Getting Started: The 7-Day Kitchen Cleaning Challenge The first step to cleaning your kitchen space is to remove all items from each area of your kitchen so that you will be able to wipe down and thoroughly clean the space. Next, go through the items and throw away any unused or broken items. If you don’t have any drawer organizers or organizational bins and baskets, you might want to consider purchasing some. For me personally, having these in my kitchen and pantry space is a necessity! These organizational tools help keep my drawers and cabinets neat and tidy, and I don’t waste time looking for my can opener, kitchen scissors, and so on! To see some of my favorite kitchen cleaning products, organizational bins, and baskets for your kitchen, click the following links; Storage Baskets | Kitchen Organization | Pantry Organization | Cleaning Products Day 1: Cleaning Out Your Kitchen Drawers Are your kitchen drawers the “catch-all” for all things whether it belongs in the kitchen or not? If so, now is the time to declutter and deep clean those drawers! I organize my kitchen drawers based on where they are located in my kitchen and what items I will need to access in each area. Group similar items together – kitchen utensils, paring knives, and steak knives, measuring spoons and cups, cooking utensils, oven mitts and hand towels, etc. Think through where each of these items should be in your kitchen to create a well-organized, functional kitchen space you will love! Day 2: Upper Cabinets - Time to Declutter Do you open your upper cabinets and see a chaotic mess? Are you afraid something may fall out when you open the cabinet door? You are not alone! So, let's create an organized cabinet space that makes you happy to open the doors. First, it is time to declutter those cabinets. I know we all have plastic restaurant cups that take up too much space in our cabinets! And do we really need to keep all of those plastic cups? My husband would say “yes” to that, but I recently got rid of the majority of those cups and only kept a few of his favorites just to make him happy. So, scale down your plastic cup collection to allow more space for your dinnerware, glassware, and so on. Designate a shelf for similar items – one for dinnerware and glassware, one for water bottles (feel free to purge some of these as well!), one for mixing bowls, etc. If your spices or canned food items are in your upper cabinets, organize them on risers for easy access. Again, think about the functionality of your kitchen and place items in a manner that makes your kitchen space work well! "What I know for sure is that when you declutter - whether it's your home, your head, or your heart - it is astounding what will flow into the space that will enrich you, your life, and your family." – Peter Walsh Day 3: Lower Cabinets - Purge, Organize, and Refine Are your lower cabinets as unorganized as your upper cabinets…or worse? Do items get lost in the back of your lower cabinets? Do you put items that you don’t use often in your lower cabinets? Lower cabinets can be so challenging. Not only do you have to bend or squat down to get what you need but you may also have to reach behind other items to get to an item in the back of the cabinet. Again, you will need to group similar items together – small appliances, Tupperware and lids, pots and pans, etc. I have found the best way to make use of the space in lower cabinets is to use baskets and/or install drawers so that you can pull items in and out more easily. This will contain smaller items so they aren’t spread out everywhere in the cabinets. By adding some type of organizational system to your lower cabinet space, you will be able to maximize this space to its full potential. Day 4: The Stove and Oven Do we even have to mention how messy your stovetop and the inside of your oven can be? These two areas are magnets for grease, crumbs, and splatter! To maintain your stovetop, it should be wiped down after each use; however, it likely needs a good deep clean at least once a week. This includes the grates (if your stovetop has them), exhaust fan, and vent hood. Grease accumulates in all of those areas, and if not cleaned well, it can affect the function of your stovetop and exhaust fan. The inside of your over also needs to be deep cleaned as well. Fortunately, most ovens these days come equipped with a self-cleaning mode, which makes it so much easier to get this done regularly. Day 5: Freshening Up the Refrigerator and Freezer Let’s be honest – how often do you clean out your refrigerator and freezer and give them both a good deep cleaning? I can assure you that I do not do it nearly as often as I should. Why don’t we commit to doing this regularly together? First and foremost, empty your refrigerator and freezer. Get rid of any items that are expired, almost empty, or have freezer burn. Deep clean both areas which will likely include defrosting your freezer space. Before returning items to your refrigerator, I encourage you to purchase clear acrylic or plastic bins and drawers to help create an organized refrigerator space. This will allow you to have a designated area for produce, canned drinks, eggs, snacks, etc. I have done this for both of my refrigerators and freezers and there is less clutter now as a result! Day 6: Purging and Organizing the Pantry Decluttering your pantry…just hearing those words may make you overwhelmed and anxious. Pantries tend to be the most unorganized area in our kitchen space. We often unload the groceries and just place items in the pantry without giving any thought to how to best make use of the space. As daunting as it may sound, you must first empty your pantry! Based on your pantry space, you will then need to mentally create designated areas for each group of items you keep in the pantry, such as canned foods, snacks, cereal, spices, chips, boxed foods, small appliances, and so on. Your pantry space is an area where using bins, drawers, risers, and baskets is most beneficial. You don’t have to purchase it all at once…start with one or two areas and add more later when you are ready. And you likely won’t get it right the first time! I have rearranged my pantry multiple times. Just keep trying until you get it like you want it and you have created a pantry space that works well for you and your family. Day 7: Cleaning Countertops and Small Appliances You made it to day 7! I saved the easiest day for the end. Now that you have thoroughly deep-cleaned and decluttered your kitchen space, let’s finish cleaning your countertops, sink, garbage disposal, and any small appliances that are on your counter space. Don’t forget to wipe down the front of all drawers, cabinet doors, and appliances. Also, be sure to clean your drawer pulls and cabinet knobs. This will give a nice, polished look to finish off your 7-day kitchen cleaning challenge! After you have cleaned and decluttered, add some kitchen décor items to create a warm, inviting space that you will love! To see some of my favorite kitchen cleaning products, organizational bins, and baskets for your kitchen, click the following links; Storage Baskets | Kitchen Organization | Pantry Organization | Cleaning Products Enjoy Your Clean Kitchen Space! You did it! Congratulations on completing the Ultimate 7-Day Kitchen Cleaning Challenge! You should now have a spotless kitchen with all surfaces gleaming, all drawers and cabinets organized, and all shelves and countertops clutter-free. Making this deep cleaning effort was worth the time and effort you invested. Now it's time to enjoy a clean kitchen and be proud of your accomplishment! Download your free 7-day Kitchen Cleaning Challenge today! Create a kitchen space where you and your family will enjoy making wonderful memories! Leave a comment below and let me know how well you completed your challenge! Good luck and happy cleaning! CLICK HERE FOR YOUR FREE 7-DAY KITCHEN CLEANING CHALLENGE!