Now that it’s a new year, it’s time for resolutions. A chance to hit the restart button. But resolutions don’t only have to be personal. You can tailor them to any part of your life, including your home. From organization to lowering your bills, here are four resolutions for your home this year.
Clean Out Your Kitchen Cabinets
Start the year off right by overhauling and restocking the items in your cupboards. Get rid of unwanted dishware and any expired food. If you have holiday dishware, such as platters or bowls, remove and store them elsewhere to create more space for things you plan to use more often throughout the year. Any half-opened boxes or jars should be thrown away (unless they were recently purchased) and replaced with new ones. Be sure to replace and replenish all staples, such as flour, sugar and condiments.
Check Safety and Security Systems
Go through each room in your home and check, replace and update safety features as needed. Fire and carbon monoxide detectors usually run on batteries and should be replaced at least every six to 12 months, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. Right after the holidays is also a prime time for sales on new security systems. From doorbell and floodlight cameras to full home security systems, this is the perfect time to install and update the security of your home.
Organize Your Space
Forget spring cleaning and start your clean home refresh at the beginning of the year. Since it may be a colder time of the year for some, you may be stuck inside the house anyway, so, when is a better time to declutter? Most people are still cleaning up from holiday parties and gifts galore. By using this as an opportunity to get rid of clutter and unwanted items, you can start your year off in a fresh, organized space. Room by room, decide what you want to throw away, donate or store for a later time, and organize as necessary.
Cut Costs and Energy Usage
If you have a New Year’s resolution to help the planet, your home is a great place to start. Make it a habit to turn off light switches after you leave a room, learn to properly recycle and insulate exposed ductwork, which could cut heating and cooling costs by almost 20 percent! In addition to the day-to-day efficiencies, you can also start the new year with home improvements. Solar panels, for example, are a great way to cut costs. Whether big or small, there are many things you can do to use less energy, lower your bills and help save the world.
