Budgeting | Personal Finance | Article

5 Tips To Refresh Your Home In The New Year

by The Simple Sum | 2 Jan 2025

Refreshing your home promotes mental well-being and sets a positive tone for the year ahead.

The new year often brings with it that urge to hit the reset button—not just on our lives, but also on the spaces we live in. We suddenly crave for a breath of fresh air in our homes after months looking at the same scenery. The good news is you don’t need massive renovations or an extravagant budget to give your space a much-needed facelift. Here are some simple, frugal ways to refresh your home and welcome the new year with a clean slate.

 

1. Start with a decluttering session

The first step to making your home feel “new” again is to clear out what doesn’t belong anymore. You know that drawer overflowing with “maybe useful someday” items? Or the wardrobe stuffed with clothes you haven’t worn in years? Start there. Grab a few boxes and label them—Donate, Sell, and Bin. Take it one room at a time so it doesn’t get overwhelming. 

While you’re at it, use this as an excuse to give your home a deep clean. Vacuum those neglected corners, wipe down shelves, and polish surfaces. It’s incredibly rewarding to see your floors sparkle and your shelves dust-free—it instantly makes your space feel calmer and brighter.

2. Breathe new life into your decor

Once you’ve decluttered and cleaned, it’s time for the fun part—freshening up the look of your home. The simplest and most budget-friendly way to do this is by switching up small decor elements, such as cushion covers, tablecloths, curtains, or wallpapers. A pop of colour or a trendy new pattern can completely transform a room. No need to splurge; there are plenty of affordable options online that look just as stylish as the pricey ones. 

You can also add a touch of green to your home with indoor plants. If you don’t have a green thumb, try something low maintenance like a snake plant or a money plant. Place them in corners that feel a bit empty, and watch your room come alive again.

3. Rearrange your furniture

Sometimes, all your space needs is a fresh perspective. We’re not talking about buying new furniture; It’s about moving what you already have around. Try shifting your sofa to a different wall or repositioning your table. If you’ve got an accent chair gathering dust in the corner, maybe it belongs in your bedroom now. 

Rearranging furniture can make a space feel completely different—and it doesn’t cost a penny. Plus, it’s a fun little project that can spark creativity as you reimagine the layout of your rooms. 

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4. Organise for peace of mind

Now that your home looks more put-together, it’s time to tackle organisation. Start with areas that see the most chaos—like kitchen counters, bathroom cupboards, or bedside tables. And you don’t need fancy organisers – just use jars, baskets, or boxes (which you might already have) to group similar items together. Repurposing old containers works as well.  A clutter-free, well-organised space not only looks better but also helps you feel more relaxed. There’s something soothing about knowing exactly where everything is .

5. Add a personal touch

To make your refreshed space feel yours, add personal touches that bring you joy. Maybe it’s a framed photo of a special memory, a scented candle with your favourite fragrance, or a cosy throw blanket for the sofa. These small details can tie everything together and make your home feel warm and welcoming as you head into the new year. 

Take time to enjoy the results

Once you’re done, don’t rush into the next task. Sit down with a cup of tea, light that new candle, and admire what you’ve achieved. Refreshing your home isn’t just about the visual changes; it’s about creating a space that makes you feel re-energised and content.