For all of us dreaming of a nicer abode, but face the reality of not being able to move or do extensive work in our homes, we may quickly become discouraged at the thought of seemingly no options to make our current surroundings more pleasing.

Don’t look so longingly with disappointment at those whose homes you admire!

A few, rather easy and inexpensive changes, can elevate your home to the next level no matter where you live.  Homeowners and renters alike can make any of the suggested improvements. 

To avoid sounding like some celebrities who use their blogs to recommend extremely pricey solutions, I have provided options that are more moderately priced down to no cost at all.  Expensive is subjective so for some these options may still be out of reach but you are sure to find others that can be easily implemented. 

#1 Minimize/Simplify

At the risk of sounding cliche, first and foremost is to clean your mess.  This doesn’t just mean cleaning the floors, dusting and vacuuming (which are all super important) but really working to streamline, de-clutter, and minimize. Create a well organized home.  

Donate/Sell anything you don’t need or use.  Find a home for everything in your space so it can be easily located when needed but out of sight when not.  Make that space the place that each item returns to when you finished using it.  Anything you use in your home should be either immediately cleaned and/or put away, or thrown out (recycled as often as possible) once you are finished with the item.   

#2 Make your shower experience more luxurious

My shower had a low pressure spray (and although I am all about being eco-friendly) I dreaded getting into a shower that did not feel so good.  At the same time, I did not trust my water.  So for $54 I purchased a shower filter/head combo.  It has changed my entire shower experience!  Not only is the spray much more satisfying but I am more confident in the water hitting my skin.  Shower filters are sold alone or with a shower head. They come in metal or a white plastic exterior.  I recommend the metal version with a shower head as many are attractive and make the shower look and feel better.

#3 Upgrade Your Bath Towels

Towels like anything become tattered and torn over time.  It’s easy to find nice towels at discount home stores.  Be sure to look for 100% cotton. I recommend a bit oversized for a more luxurious feel. And I also suggest solid colors, preferably white (as they are versatile, can be bleached, and look fresh) but any plain color will do.  I find towels with designs too fussy and less elegant but to each his/her own.

#4  Ditch Your Plastic Plants

Toss (recycle) those plastic plants.  Replace with at least one living plant that brings life to your home.  Regardless of how much sunlight you get, there will be a variety of plants that will work.  And if you just simply can’t be bothered with real plants, opt for a soft material/silk like faux plant or flower for more elegance.

#5  Invest in real flatware, dishes, napkins and glasses.  There are so many great prices at chain home stores on meal-ware.  It’s difficult to use cost as an excuse.  Think about the waste and cost of single-use plastic forks/knives and paper plates/napkins. You will not only be helping the environment but you will be helping your wallet in the long run.  Not to mention, imagine the beautiful table you can set with the real thing. 

Talk about an instant upgrade!  

#6 Take time for curb appeal.   If you live in a house or an apartment that opens to the ground level, make sure the front of your home is tidy and organized.  This will make it easier to sweep and pick up trash.  This goes for your yard and side of house too.  Make sure any trash receptacles are out of site and covered properly to avoid trash flying out.  And definitely don’t let trash pile up in the trash bins.   Taking these few cost-free steps will instantly increase the curb appeal of your residence!

#7 Make Your Bed. Having a made bed, not only will make your home look more polished but there are many who suggest that a made bed can change your life.  It will make you happier, give you a greater sense of accomplishment and start each day better!

Happy home upgrading!

Look for more tips in next issues. 

by Carolyn Francesca © ThinkBare 2021