Our homes are our sanctuaries. At least, they’re supposed to be that way. Far too often, homeowners let their properties fall into disrepair. The result, oftentimes, is an unwelcoming environment that is unlikely to help us relax and unwind. What’s more, we eventually get used to the inadequacies of our homes rather than take steps to address them.
That ends now. With spring only a few months away, the time is now to make plans for major home improvement projects. By prioritizing the list of things you need to tackle this year, chances are you’ll see a marked improvement in your health and wellness.
With this in mind, let’s take a look at seven home improvement ideas for life-improving outcomes:
Reverse osmosis filtration system
Is your skin constantly dry and itchy? Does your tap water taste off? Do clothes fade faster than anticipated? If the answer is yes to any of those, then chances are your home is connected to a hard water supply.
Hard water contains harsh minerals and other contaminants that lead to a whole host of household problems. As a result, those living in areas with a hard water supply are encouraged to invest in a reverse osmosis filter system. Doing so will result in water that’s better tasting and less harmful to skin, hair, pipes, and appliances.
Smart technology appliances
If you’re a certain age or older, it can be easy to write off smart home technology as nothing but a fad. But if you use a smartphone, you’re well on your way to understanding the benefits of smart appliances. The bottom line is that smart appliances can be monitored and manipulated remotely.
This is achieved courtesy of phone-based apps. It might sound gimmicky at first, but once you experience the benefit of having your refrigerator inform you of what you’re out of while you’re out shopping, you’ll start to understand what all the fuss is about.
Improved air purification
Even the cleanest-looking homes will have millions of tiny particles floating through the air, eventually landing on floors and furniture or making their way into our eyes, noses, and mouths. All it takes is an exceptionally sunny day to see all the bits of dirt, dust, and dead skin cells in the air.
If you or someone else in your home suffers from allergies, consider investing in a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifier system. These devices are about the size of a standard hardshell suitcase and can be discreetly placed in any room in the house. Once up and running, a HEPA purifier will catch all those particles, making the air in your home cleaner and safer.
Better lighting
Many homeowners make the mistake of underestimating the importance of good lighting. From practical concerns over visibility to making sure wall art can be seen in all its glory, better lighting and upgraded light fixtures can transform the look and feel of your home in an instant.
Upgraded bedding
Are you constantly tossing and turning in bed? Is it because you’re too hot or too cold and consequently too uncomfortable? If so, perhaps it’s time to upgrade your bedding. From bed sheets to blankets, bedding can ruin even the best-designed mattress, or it can take quality sleep to the next level.
Choosing the right bedding materials for your personal definition of bedtime comfort is essential to getting a good night’s rest. As a result, it’s key to having a productive day.
Backyard gardening
Do you live in a region with warm weather and sunshine for at least one-third of the calendar year? If so, consider giving backyard gardening a try. While you might not be able to grow every fruit and vegetable, certain produce is easier for backyard gardening than others, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and countless herbs. You could also get into growing flowers and other plants purely for their look.
Updated outdoor living space
Do you have a nice lawn that always gets mowed but never gets used? If so, you might want to update your outdoor living space to make it a more pleasant place to spend time. Start with a place to sit in the shade, giving you a refuge from the sun after spending time playing games on the grass. If your budget allows, consider investing in a deck or patio space for cozy summer evenings and memorable backyard barbecues.
We expect our homes to be the one place we can always count on for respite from the world. But that’s hard to do if our homes are dirty and uncomfortable. By investing in the home improvement projects mentioned above, you and your loved ones are all but guaranteed to experience improved happiness, health, and wellness.
Vivien Bell is a freelance writer from Maryland. She enjoys writing about education, family, home living, and pet care.