Embrace the season with these timely tips.
Crisp air is settling in. Sweaters are making their annual comeback. And, the aroma of pumpkin-spiced everything is filling the air. It’s clear: Fall has officially arrived.
Prepare your home for the season with these nine tips, guaranteed to help you stay cozy all autumn long.
1. Break out the blankets
It’s time to curl up on the couch under a blanket, enjoy your favorite show, read a good book and relax. Consider adding knitted blankets, soft quilts or cable knit throws to your go-to lounge space – and look for these options in fall colors like brown, dark green, maroon, marigold, crimson and more.
2. Infuse your home with the scents of the season
Switch out candles and incense for ones with timeless autumn scents like pumpkin spice, cinnamon apple and sandalwood to bring a cozy fall ambiance to your home. No need for homemade cider – these fragrances can do the trick!3. Decorate the interior with fall flair
Spruce up your space this season with real or faux pumpkins and gourds – and pair them with complementary items like dried flowers, festive kitchen towels, throw pillows and other themed pieces. For a group activity, host a pumpkin carving and decorating night with family and friends.
4. Switch out bedding
As the nights get cooler, consider swapping out a lighter quilt for a toastier comforter to stay warm all fall and winter long. Many people like to switch up their summertime sheets for thicker flannel ones instead.
5. Increase the glow
When days get shorter, the right lighting can make your home feel as bright – or as cozy – as you see fit. Set the mood with things like string lights, candles and lamps to create a snug atmosphere. Some people opt to put color changing bulbs in their light fixtures to control the warmth and coolness of the hue and adjust according to the season.6. Stock the kitchen with seasonal treats
‘Tis the season for baking timely, nostalgic treats. Stock your pantry and spice cabinets with fall essentials so you have the right supplies on hand when a hankering for a gourmet goodie strikes. Or, visit your local bakery for seasonal treats and display them in decorative dishware – this is the perfect addition to an in-house coffee nook.
7. Get the fireplace ready
Few things are more comforting than a crackling fire on a cool fall evening. If your fireplace is wood-burning, make sure you’re stocking up on enough firewood for the cold months ahead. If it’s gas-burning, make sure your tank is refilled with propane (reminder: it’s likely time to schedule a delivery!).
For either type, ensure the fireplace it’s cleaned and prepped for upcoming use. Many people choose to consult an expert, or hire a chimney sweep, to ensure their fireplace is safe and good to go.
8. Refresh your fall curb appeal
The front stoop sets the tone for your home, so give it a fall makeover that benefits curb appeal. Start by clearing away fallen leaves and debris from the yard. Then, decorate with a new welcome mat, a fall-themed wreath on your door and pumpkins dotted about. If you’re looking forward to Halloween, consider including some spooky or sweet decorations that will make you happy – and bring joy to trick-or-treaters who stop by.
9. Organize and declutter
Embrace fall by giving your home a fresh start. Store away summer garments and shoes to make room for jackets and sweaters – and use stylish storage solutions, like wicker baskets, for hiding items like extra blankets in plain sight. Take time to give your home a deep cleaning this season, too. If you have kids back on busy school schedules, create a productive study space at home to keep homework and school supplies off the kitchen table.
Looking for a home to cozy up in all year long? Get in touch with a local RE/MAX agent today.
Article originally appeared on RE/MAX.com.