We have all encountered those moments where we look at the lingering chaos in our homes and wonder how on earth we can ever get it under control. From stacks of paperwork scattered around the house to a cluttered kitchen that never quite feels clean, it can be more than a little overwhelming.
Fear not, for your house needn’t be an eternal mess. For we have been there, dear reader, wading through clutter and spilling wine everywhere but down our gobs. Through lived experience, we’ve learnt a few things. Namely, these practical, smart renovation tricks that will make cleaning a doddle, but will also ensure your home exudes style and charm.
Install User-Friendly Tiles
One of the simplest and smartest ways to make your home easier to clean is by installing tiles. Not only do they introduce an element of class and sophistication to any room, but they are also a breeze to maintain.
The biggest advantage of tiles is that they are impressively resistant to spills and stains. All it takes is a quick wipe, and your surfaces are as good as new. Tiles also accumulate less dust and debris than carpets, making them ideal for those who suffer from allergies.
When choosing tiles, opt for ones with a matte finish to prevent visible fingerprints and water stains. Large format tiles can also be a good choice as fewer grout lines mean less cleaning!
And whilst this is a task that can of course be done DIY, you’ve come here seeking clean lines and smooth surfaces. For that reason, it might be smart to whack the ol’ ‘’tilers near me’’ search into Google and see what comes up in your area.
Read: 9 of Summer 2023’s biggest tile trends
Embrace Dark Coloured Throws On Sofas
Sofas and armchairs are integral parts of any home, but they can be magnets for mess. They gather everything from crumbs to pet hair and are often the star victims of spillage disasters. This is where darker coloured throws come in.
Dark throws do a splendid job of hiding stains, pet hair, and the like. Moreover, they instantly refresh your space, keeping it looking chic and well kept. They also allow you to embrace a new colour scheme or style without having to buy new furniture.
The throws can easily be thrown in the wash if they become too grimy, and, voila, your sofa looks as good as new in no time!
Read: 7 hacks for keeping your house smelling good when you have pets
Invest In Clever Storage Solutions
Clutter can significantly contribute to the feeling of a messy home. To combat this, incorporate clever storage solutions into your home renovation plans. Consider furniture with built-in storage, like ottomans or coffee tables with compartments.
A well-placed shelf or two can work wonders in maintaining order. It’s an affordable and stylish way to showcase your books, trinkets, or family photos whilst keeping them off surfaces where they might accumulate dust.
Easy-Clean Paint Can Be Your Best Friend
When embarking on your renovation journey, choosing an easy-clean paint for your walls can make all the difference. These special paints are designed to withstand cleaning products, allowing you to wipe away any marks or accidental spills with ease. Opt for a semi-gloss or high-gloss variety, particularly in rooms like kitchens and bathrooms, where messes are prone to happen.
Embrace A More Minimalist Design
A minimalist design focuses on the ‘less is more’ approach. Not only does this create a calming, uncluttered home environment, but it also significantly cuts down on your cleaning time. By reducing the number of unnecessary items in your home, you’ll have less to dust, less to clean, and more free time to enjoy your inviting, serene space.
Choose Stain-Resistant Fabrics & Materials
When choosing materials for your furniture, curtains or rugs, it pays to select fabrics that are easy to clean. Synthetic fibres generally resist stains better and can be cleaned easily compared to their natural counterparts. Microfibre, for instance, can mimic the look and feel of suede while being machine washable.
Similarly, for kitchen counters or dining tables, engineered quartz is nonporous, making the cleaning process a cinch and keeping your kitchen smelling fresh. Go on; breathe it all in!
Create A Dedicated Space For Messy Activities
Whether it’s arts and crafts with the kids or DIY projects for the grown-ups, having a dedicated space for messy activities can help contain clutter and minimise clean-up. Consider creating a corner in your living room or a section of your garage or utility room with washable, waterproof mats, and ample storage options.
The Bottom Line
Implementing these simple renovation tips can go a long way in making the task of keeping your house clean a doddle. Remember, however, that every home is unique, and it’s essential to find solutions that work best for your specific circumstances. With a bit of planning, you can create a home that’s not only beautiful but also a breeze to maintain. Here’s to less mess and more style!