While many of us have a lot more time at home right now, and spring fever is setting in, there is a lot more to do than burn through your Netflix watchlist! Below is a list of home projects ranging from a couple of hours to a couple of days that will have us coming out of isolation with a home that is updated, organized, improved, and clean, and ready to venture back into the world!
- Build a raised garden bed
Now is a perfect time to start prepping for a summer garden! A few basic tools, some wood planks, and an afternoon, and you can have some beautiful garden beds to add to your yard.
Good Housekeeping has an easy guide with a video to follow.
2. Clean out the dryer vents
Lint build up in your vents not only affects the dryer efficiency, it increases your risk of fire. Dryer vents should be cleaned out once a year to keep your appliance running properly as well as keep you home safe.
Home Depot has a great guide to walk you through duct cleaning.
3. Clean and scrub pathways
Spruce up your curb appeal by power washing your sidewalks, walkways, and driveway.
If you don’t already have an attachment, one can be sent right to your door for $20!
4. Update hardware in your kitchen and baths
Sometimes, it’s the small things that can instantly refresh a room. New knobs and pulls are easy to install usually with nothing more than a screwdriver.
For more classic options, you can’t be the selection at Lowe’s. But for something that will really pop, Anthropology has an amazing selection.
5. Drain your water heater
Most people never give their water heater a second thought, let alone know it needs to be drained annually. Sediment buildups can cause your water heater to have to work hard which leads to temperature stress, and eventually leaks
Here is a step-by-step guide to crossing off the water heater maintenance for the year.
7. Apply window film
Window film is a beautiful option when you want more privacy but do not want to add bulky curtains or lose natural light.There are a variety of opacities and patterns to chose from
Amazon has a great selection.
8. Update exterior light fixtures
Another quick way to improve your curb appeal is to update your exterior light fixtures. New modern lights are less expensive and less complicated than new siding or landscape, while still making a big impact.
Home Depot has a beautiful selection.
9. Paint the front door
Make a good first impression with a bold fresh coat of paint. Whether you want to pick a new color or just apply a few touch ups, it will rejuvenate a weather-beaten, faded front door.
Benjamin Moore has a great inspiration page and Home Depot will send you everything you need without ever having to step inside the store!
10. Upgrade the shower head
Not every upgrade needs to be something everyone can appreciate. Sometimes it’s just for you. A new shower head can give your morning routine a more spa-like experience, and in times like this, it’s the simple things that make all the difference.
Lowe’s has a huge assortment ready to ship.
11. Swap out your address numbers
Address numbers have to be on the front of the house anyway, may as well make them look like stylish!
Etsy is my favorite place for fun, modern styles..
12. Change out an outdated light fixture
What was happening in the 90s, guys?? It seems there were about three different fixtures to choose from and somehow so many are living on to this day! Light fixtures are affordable, easy to install, and an instant statement piece!.
Lamps Plus has a selection that will knock your socks off.
13. Illuminate a walkway
Illuminating the walkway to the front door gives great nighttime curb appeal. There are many options for solar powered lights as well which will eliminate the need for cords.
Walmart has literally hundreds to choose from.
14. Organize your junk drawers
Every home has the “junk drawer” (or two) that has what you need, but it’s too much work to dig through when you need it. Since we have the time, we may just have to bite the bullet and finally get that thing organized. We will be grateful the next time we are able to find scissors or a measuring tape when we need it!
The Container Store has pieces in every shape and size to customize for your organizing needs. Or, use cereal boxes and cut them to the drawer dimensions.
While the reason we have so much time on our hands isn’t a great one, if we stay busy, maybe next month won’t feel like the 8000 days of March!