New Year is all about revival, old can become new again, broken can be fixed – whatever it is in your life that needs freshening up, now is the time! If your home could benefit from a reset this year, you could save some pennies by making use of what you already have. It’s time to get recycling, restoring and reclaiming the areas that still have heaps of unlocked potential!
Let us help you chase away those January blues with these green tips…
Remove carpet stains
Ripping up old carpets is time consuming, expensive, and the plastic and dyes in the material are no friends to the environment. Don’t give up on your carpets or rugs just because of a stain – they might just need a little TLC! A simple mixture of vinegar and water can bring your carpets back to life. Not only does this mixture remove stains from food, pets and dirt, it can also help to bring the fibres back up if they’ve been worn down over the years.
If you’re worried about any lingering vinegary smells, leave your carpet to dry first and then you can shake some carpet deodorizer powder over it. Allow 30 minutes for it to do its job before vacuuming it up – and now your carpets smell as good as they look!
Repurpose broken items
Some things really are just broken beyond repair, but instead of throwing them out, you might be able to find another use for them. For example, an old washing machine drum can become a garden fire pit, a chipped teacup can become a planter, or used calendars can become framed wall art. There’s always another place
for an old item – and it doesn’t have to be the bin!
Restore natural wood
Wooden coffee tables and cabinets alike can start to look their age after accumulating years’ worth of scratches and scuffs. For a glossy, new finish that won’t harm the wood, you can mix olive oil, water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Apply generously to the surfaces that need it, and clean with a soft rag.
Revive the patio furniture
Despite its weather resistant materials, garden furniture can start to show signs of age, and you might be tempted to throw it out. However, pieces made from aluminium can be brought back to their former glory with just a touch of car wax. Make sure you give everything a good scrub first – it’s probably necessary after months of winter hibernation. Then you can get started with a cloth and a dab of car wax. No paint needed, just polish and shine those chairs and tables until they’re brand new again!
Reclaim unused spaces
Renovating is expensive and red tape is tedious – so make use of the space you already have instead! If you’re looking for that extra ‘wow’ factor in your home, think about how you can transform any unused nooks and crannies. Are there any empty cupboards or wardrobes that could be transformed into a drinks cabinet? Is there a cosy corner that could become a reading nook? Or, is there large window ledge that might make a great stargazing seat? You’ll be surprised by how much potential your home already has if you start thinking about the details.
If you’re looking for a home to make your own, contact us today.
