Getting Started With Your DIY Waterfall

First of all, you need to take a good look around your garden to decide on the best location for your waterfall. You also need to know whether your land is flat or not. If your garden is totally flat, then you will need to build a slope or series of steps. A gentle slope will mean a gentle fall of water, while a steeper slope will ensure faster – and louder – movement of water. If your soil is hard to dig, or too sandy to form a solid base, you can build height using decorative stones and rocks of varying sizes. These are available through garden centres and DIY outlets.

Then, decide whether you want your waterfall to cascade into a pond or a simple gravel bed. A pond will require maintenance and cleaning but will be beneficial for wildlife.

Before Starting

You will need:

• A preformed liner

• Sand

• Electric or solar pump

• Shovel

• Rocks, natural or preformed

• Tubing

• Flowerpot

• Spirit level

You will need a pump in the lower part of the waterfall to ensure water circulates back to the top and down again. It’s a good idea to have a certified electrician check for any buried utility cables underneath where your waterfall is to go. They caninstall a circuit breaker nearby.

Start by digging out an area where your pond or gravel bed will be. Make sure you dig to the same size as the preformed liner you have bought. Use a spirit level to ensure it is even; use a layer of sand under the liner as a base and add or subtract sand until the liner is even. This structure should be deep enough to be able to submerge your pump.

Now the Waterfall

This is the more complicated of the two structures which make up a waterfall so take your time in deciding how to place the rocks and stones in order to achieve the best effect of cascading water, which should gently meander downwards rather than fall in one big splosh! For a quieter sound, you will only need a waterfall that is a few inches high. Bear in mind that you will need to feed tubing (from the pump) upwards which should be hidden in a shallow trench within the rock structure. Thread the tubing inside a flowerpot behind the rocks so it can’t be seen. You may also need a flexible liner to place under the rock formation for a large-scale waterfall.

Using rocks of varying sizes start to build up the waterfall, being careful to conceal the tubing all the way up and ensuring that rocks in the centre are flatter to better direct the flow of water.

Once you’re happy with the design fill the pond or gravel bed with water and switch on the pump to test the flow. Make any adjustments necessary then relax and enjoy your garden waterfall.

The post How to Build a DIY Waterfall in Your Garden appeared first on Twits Guides.

Small Tips For Big Results

Multipurpose furniture

One problem that many people find themselves facing in their home is often an issue with space. This is particularly true if you live in a newer house or apartment where the rooms so tend to be on the smaller side. This is where using furniture that is multipurpose can really come into its own. Shelving with a fold out table can be a particularly practical way of creating a work space for those days when you need to work from home. It also gives you the flexibility pack your “office” away at the end of the day. 

Sort out the cables

With so much technology in the home there is a good chance that you have wires trailing all over the place. Whilst these are necessary, they can be rather unsightly. Using a cable organising strip and making sure they are out of the way may seem like an incredibly simple idea. Still, it can have a huge impact on the look of a room. 

Declutter

If you are tired of looking at your house and think that it looks shabby and in need of some updating, it may not be nearly as bad as you think. Clutter can make a room not only feel smaller but also darker and scruffy. Start by having a good sort out. Get rid of anything that is broken or that you no longer want, and don’t keep things for the sake of it. Tidy up your remaining belongings and you can guarantee that this will make a huge difference. 

Add some plants

Adding plants to your home will not only make a huge difference to the look of a room but also has some benefits for your health as well. Studies have shown that indoor plants can help to lower blood pressure and also reduce stress. If you are not “green fingered” then opt for plants that are low maintenance. Those with striking foliage are a good option. Also, consider a couple of different sizes of plant to add variety, remembering to use the rule of three.

Change your colour scheme

Changing the colour of your walls can have a huge impact on the look of your room. Not only will it freshen up the room, but the right shade can make your room seem lighter and more open. For a smaller room, opt for lighter shades and for a room seems cold, look at warmer tones. 

Add a mirror

Finally, consider a staple in the interior design trick book; adding a mirror to any room. This can help to open it out and make it seem brighter and bigger. 

Hopefully, these small tips have inspired you to make the most out of your home, without giving you a huge project to tackle.

The post 6 Small tips that make a huge difference to your home appeared first on Twits Guides.

Updated 30 August 2022

When you enter your home, you want to come in to a place that promotes peace and calm after a busy day. Whether you are returning home from work, a school run, or shopping, when you enter a house that has had a good declutter you will find it is easier to relax and enjoy the space that you live in. When your house is untidy and cluttered, it can make you feel on edge as you are surrounded by things that you may not really want and need. Even if you have a cluttered house that is actually tidy (with lots of clever storage units), there is still the dreaded moment of opening the cupboards to try and find something that you are looking for that is buried beneath clutter. One of the key benefits to decluttering your home is to make life less stressful because it becomes easier to find things – there are many ways this can be achieved. Let’s take a look

1. Focus your mind

Firstly, you need to have a focussed mind. It is no good starting on decluttering, only to get sentimental about every item that you come across, as this doesn’t help. There needs to be an end goal in sight, and the reasons you are doing this must be kept at the forefront of your mind. Do you have items in your cupboards that have been packed away and not looked at for years; maybe not since you first moved to your new home? Perhaps you are one of those people that has kept every single workbook that your child has written in from the age of 3 to 18? Or odd pieces of wood that might come in handy one day, or a spare pack of porcelain tiles from when you tiled the bathroom 10 years ago “just in case”. Whatever the reason for decluttering, it is important to take the emotions out of it. Yes, it may be nice that you have all the pieces of artwork that your child has created since the day they picked up a pen; however, if you take a photo of your favourite few on your smart phone they can be stored virtually and the space of a box of artwork freed up. There are actually many apps and services such as Keepy that are set up for just this type of problem. You’ll still be able to look back on all the hard work your kids have put into their schoolwork and pictures for you but that space can be used for more useful current items that need storing, or indeed for items that don’t currently have a place to be stored. When you starting your decluttering mission, remember why you are doing it and if you find yourself wavering, take a break, focus back in and start again or continue tomorrow!

2. Start small

The thought of decluttering the house may seem totally daunting, understandably so. The task ahead isn’t something that is meant to be done in a short space of time. If this task seems like an uphill mountain that is difficult to climb, take it in small steps. Start with ten minutes on a particular shelf in a room. Once you have done that ten minutes, leave it and reward yourself with a cup of tea, or simply the joy that you have started. When you are feeling ready, go back and do it again. This time, if you can for a bit longer, but if not just stick to small ten minute bursts. Before you know it, the whole bookshelf will be done, then the room and slowly the house will be decluttered. This isn’t something to be taken as a quick fix that can be done overnight. Taking your time and completing it purposefully is far more achievable that trying to do the whole house in a day!

3. Make a mess

When you declutter it is useful to start a room at a time. By doing this, you can contain yourself and concentrate on the task at hand. With decluttering you have to expect mess, as you are emptying out cupboards or going through boxes and shelving. This can seem counterproductive, however it is totally necessary. To truly declutter you will first end up making a mess and then as you put stuff away that you are keeping, the tidiness will reappear. If you are working in one room, make sure that you can close the door and leave it when you have reached your limit; but, always go back to it the following day! It isn’t a quick job to properly declutter your house, and accepting that it may take time will help to get it done thoroughly.

4. Be ruthless

Once you have embarked on this mission, you must remember to be ruthless. It is no good spending time and effort on doing this, if you aren’t going to actually declutter what is there. Simply rearranging the clutter so it fits better won’t help. It may be easiest to make piles of things; a keep, throw, sell and charity shop pile could work quite well. If you keep pile doesn’t change drastically in size, then you know you need to get rid of those emotions, refocus and get ruthless! Obviously, getting rid of items you are going to want in the future is not the objective, but carefully considering what is, and isn’t necessary to keep is what you are trying to do. By having a ‘sell’ pile, you can even make some money out of items that are in your home. What may be sat in your home without a purpose could make someone in another home very happy! You may have a wedding present from 25 years ago, that you have never one used or looked at. Whilst it is great to have reminders of your wedding day, that object in the cupboard could make you a bit of petty cash to spend it on something more relevant that you need now.

5. Reorganise what you are keeping

If you have items that should be in the kitchen in the dining room, or items from the lounge in the bedroom then you will never find what you are looking for. Once you have decided what you are keeping, make sure you put all similar items together. Why have plugs and chargers stored in different places and different rooms? If you have a particular place to store all your plugs and chargers (only the ones you currently need, of course), then when you need one for the device you are using you save time and energy going to one central place to locate it. You don’t have to waste your timing moving from room to room, trying to find what you are looking for. By placing items in the room that they belong, and are most used, it means that things don’t get lost and everything that is needed is easy to locate. In addition to this, why not cleverly label each wire and organise your chargers and adaptors properly so they’re easier to pick out when you need them.

6. Get the family involved in the declutter

When decluttering it is important not to just dive headfirst and throw out someone else’s items whilst keeping your own! This could end up in disagreements and obviously isn’t a productive way of decluttering. If you are the main person doing the sorting, after an initial ‘filter’ of items that are going to be kept and removed, you may want to ask your partner or child whether or not it is something they want or need. What may seem like an item destined for a charity shop or the bin may be something that had gone missing the in ‘black hole’ of clutter and could be restored and used again. By getting everyone involved it means that the ownership of everything is shared, as is the ultimate aim of keeping the house clutter free. Kids can find helping out fun, but remember to stick to short bursts with kids as they do get bored easily.

7. Do you really need it?

Once you have gone through items had got your keep pile, the next step is to ask yourself ‘do I really need it?’ Whilst it might be nice to have 50 pairs of shoes, by looking through what you have, you may be able to halve this amount by getting rid of shoes with similar styles or colours. One good tip for clothing is to turn all the hangers around at the start of the year; when you have worn an item and you place it back in the wardrobe turn the hanger around. At the end of the year, you will clearly see which items you have worn, and therefore need. Those items that have been neglected can then go to a charity shop or be sold, as they have no purpose in your home. Similarly, if you open a drawer to find five old mobile phones that you haven’t even switched on for at least a year, then really they don’t need to be there either.

8. So you have decluttered, now what?

Firstly, enjoy your clutter free house. Take your time to look around the rooms, enjoy the spaces you now have, and recognise that the time and effort you have put in has made a big change to your home. Keeping your house clutter free is actually easier than you think. In the process of decluttering, everything will have been put away in a ‘place’ or an appropriate storage unit (compare storage prices here). To keep your house tidy and clutter free you must make sure that everything is returned to this spot once it has been used. It is no good getting an item from one room in the house, using it in another and then not putting it back where it belongs. Otherwise, over time, the mess will build up and clutter will start to reappear.

When you are out shopping if you feel the twinge to buy something for you home ask yourself ‘do I really need this in my decluttered home?’ Remember that extra ornaments mean extra dusting; bringing more items in to your house will mean you need to find space to store it. If you buy some new clothes, shoes or even handbags, think of it as a replacement and get rid of a similar item. This will stop the build-up of possessions in your house and make it much easier to keep on top of it all.

Of course, there are times when it does make sense to buy things you might not immediately need because you can make a huge cost-saving. For example, buying goods out of season when you know you will need them in the coming months makes financial sense. Just make sure you have somewhere to store them until they are needed. For instance, use a garden shed for garden equipment and outdoor furniture or store winter sports equipment in your attic.

With a clutter free house you will find that you have a lot more time on your hands; you won’t be searching for items that were previously buried behind other objects; you won’t spend as much time cleaning and dusting; you won’t be stressing about where to put something you have bought. Reward yourself by inviting friends round to enjoy your home; there is nothing more satisfying than knowing you are living in a clutter free space and sharing that with friends is a great way to keep your motivation levels high for keeping your house like this.

Once you have taken the time to have a full declutter, try and keep on top of it regularly. Don’t let the clutter build up again and if you feel that a room is becoming a designated room for clutter, stop cluttering it and clear it! It is so easy to place items in a room and close the door, but whilst you will forget about it in that moment, it will still be there the next day. Instead, remind yourself of the question ‘do I really need it?’ and if you do, find it a place to be stored. By taking these simple steps your house will be free of all the items you no longer need, and the sense of achievement from doing this will be shared with everyone living in the home. Maintaining a decluttered home is easy to do in small steps if you designate a point in time where you will just reassess the rooms in your house and check for any clutter. Keep looking forward, and remind yourself of how great it felt when you first finished this decluttering mission.

The post How to Declutter your Home – The Ultimate Guide appeared first on Twits Guides.

But, do you ever look at your home and wonder how you can use it better? With some small changes here and there, it could become an even better place to live. Updating your home, giving it a modern tweak on it looks inside and out maybe something you would love to do – but stop short because you think – or you know! – that it is a big job and you have no idea where to start or how.

In this article, we offer five tried and tested steps to getting a modern twist on your home without necessarily taking out a second mortgage, moving home or engaging in disruptive, expensive work. Making changes starts with small steps, one room at a time.

Step 1 – De-clutter

De-cluttering is a time-consuming but cathartic process. You will come across things long forgotten, enjoy some of the memories that they bring flooding back but also sad and anxious about other memories they recall.

De-cluttering is no one’s favourite job because it can take so long, as well as feel like an enormous task. But, if you want to make changes, whether it’s decorating a room or making big, structural changes, you need to begin with the process of decluttering.

It is a job that once started, can overwhelm you. When it comes to de-cluttering, there are a few tips that can help you de-cluttering more effective:

• Don’t start BIG – if you decide to de-clutter a whole room in one go, you may find that a few hours in to the task, you run out of steam. Start small: de-clutter the items in a cupboard etc. Deciding to declutter the whole house will only mean you run out of energy and determination sooner rather than later.
• Don’t forget you need to remove and recycle – de-cluttering can be a cathartic process but only if you see it through from start to end. You may be left with a de-cluttered lounge or hallway but, if the stuff is piled up in another room ready to be recycled etc. – and stays there for months – you have only completed half of the task.
• DO set aside plenty of time – you might think it’ll take half an hour to de-clutter the sideboard but it can take three times as long. Set aside plenty of time; even half an hour is better than not doing anything.
• DO have an idea of what you want to keep – there is no hard and fast rule about what to keep and what not to keep but if you haven’t used it in the last six months or more, then consider recycling, upcycling or donating.

Step 2 – Organise storage

De-cluttering your home is a great process and once you start to come to the end of it in a room, you can start to really see what space you have to work with.

However, there is a common, often forgotten issue when you have sorted through everything: storage. Once you know what you have and what you want to keep, you need to look at effective storage options.

Storage is not just about buying plastic boxes and hiding them away in cupboard; it is about prioritising access and using the space you have in the most effective and efficient way possible; using storage units that work in your space..

Prioritising and ordering items can be a useful way of ensuring that you can find what you want when you need it:

1. Eye level – keep things at eye level that are the most important things and ones that you will access on a frequent basis. This is especially true in wardrobe and cupboard space. Finding things quickly and easily usually depends on your eye being able to spot it amongst a sea of things.
2. Below the knee – the bunch of things that you will want to access from time to time is given storage space ‘below the knee’. This could be in cupboards or the lower portion of a wardrobe. There may be more effort involved in finding something but if you order your things correctly, you won’t need to access them as often.
3. Above the head – and finally, anything that you want to keep but will access infrequently should be kept above your head. This means making more of an effort to access – like climbing a small step ladder. Storing things like winter blankets etc. in the space above your head in the top portion of a wardrobe is a prime example of this.

One way of updating to the look of your home is to use parts of it that are hitherto ‘wasted’. Small nooks and crannies, under stairs spaces and so on can, with shelving and lighting become great storage spaces. Have a look online for inspiration on how to include bespoke and unique storage solutions in your home.

Step 3 – Snag list

Now that you have de-cluttered and started to deal with storage solutions, you can now spend some time looking at the space or the room. The objective is to create a snag list of what you want changing, followed by how you will go about doing this.

Consider these questions;

• What do you really use the room or space for? What would you like or need to use the space for?

It may be a dining room but is this what you really need it to be? It might a space that for the next few years, would be better used as a playroom or kid’s hangout. The best use of your home will depend on how you need to use it, so don’t think you have to follow a prescribe list or set of traditional ideas.

• What tasks can you complete yourself? Which do you think needs professional input?

Some changes are structural so before you start knocking walls down or ripping fireplaces out, it is a wise move to have a professional check for any structural changes or modifications that need to be made. You may feel able, willing and skilled with the right tools to take on certain tasks. Many people find it satisfying to be able to take on a project and complete it.

Step 4 – Create a mood board for each room and project

Updating your whole home is a mammoth task, especially if you decide to take it on all at once; this is why, taking it as a room by room project is a great way of completing it.

Once you have a snag list, you can set a budget for the updating the room or space, as well as deciding on the final look and uplift you are looking for.

In some cases, it may be as simple as painting and decorating or laying new porcelain tiles in the kitchen  but you want it to be stylish and practical. There are many ways of doing this, including creating a mood board.

A mood board is where you gather all the ideas you have about the final look of the room all in one place. Some people spread it out over a poster-sized piece of card but other people keep theirs in folders or a scrap book.

Your mood board will contain important information:

• Measurements and dimensions – measure the floor, as well as height of walls and the windows. These measurements are handy for when ordering curtain, blinds, flooring and so on. If you have these to hand, it makes the whole process a lot less stressful.
• A floor plan of your room – drawing an accurate floor plan, with fireplaces, and any other features can also be a great way of understanding how some things may or may not work in a space.
• Photos – clippings from magazines or from internet sites of colours, patterns and ideas are all kept on your mood board. This way, you can start to visualise how the finished room will look. Many people find visualising the final room difficult; if you are one of these people, a mood board is essential.
• Samples – if you are opting for new furnishings in a space, textures and colours are important. Keeping samples of these in a book is a great way of being able to compare how certain paint or wallpaper could work with them and so on. All too often, in our mind’s eye we may think that the carpet is a perfect match only to find that once laid, it makes the room look smaller or clashes with the décor and so on.
• Inclusive – everyone should have a say in how communal spaces in your home look, and mood boards are a great way of bringing ideas together and how they will work (or not!).

Step 5 – Maintenance of your ‘new’ home

You have worked really hard. You have a de-cluttered home, great storage solutions, a feeling of space and you and your family find that the house is once again, versatile and responsive to your needs.

Keeping it this way is not as tough as you think and this is why;

• Identify your buying ‘patterns or rituals’ – have you noticed how some people’s homes seem full of trinkets without it feeling cluttered? This is because these purchases are considered and thought out ones. This is how you need to be with every purchase you make in the future. Think carefully before every purchase – and never shop when tired – it’s so much harder to resist things.
• Visualise the coming months– you have come across a beautiful, hand blown vase. You must-have it! But, think how it will look in your home in six months’ time. Will it still fit with the décor? Or, if you change the look of that room, will the vase still have a place in it?
• Compulsive buys rarely work out… – everyone has had some kind of impulsive buy. Sometimes they work but more often than not, the item becomes an object that is passed around from room to room, and then put in a cupboard and forgotten about. When it comes to buying something for your home in the future, you need to be confident that it is a well-thought out purchase.
• Regular de-cluttering – staying on top of clutter is important. It doesn’t take long for it to all start to mount up again. Recycling and upcycling are a great way of reusing stuff that you no longer need, or no longer need in its current format. If you do want to recycle items, take advantage of the kerbside collections. Local authorities are now collecting a wider range of items as part of their weekly collections, from clothing to small electrical items. Many local recycling centres also offer collection for larger items and don’t forget that your ‘rubbish’ or unwanted stuff could be just perfect for someone else.

Updating your home takes a little effort and organisation but, get the basics right and you will soon see the fruits of your labour – remember the below and you won’t go far wrong.

• De-cluttering is great but only if you make arrangements for items to be moved/recycled/upcycled and reused.
• As well as budgeting, you also need to plan your time; some aspects of updating your home can take longer than others.
• Mood boards or books are a great way of gathering inspiration and ideas so that you get the final look that you want.
• Not also changes are DIY tasks; structural changes should be OK’d by a builder first or by a structural engineer.
• Get the whole family involved and remember, just because a room has ‘always been used as a dining room etc.’, doesn’t mean it has to stay as one. If you need a play room, then make space for one. It can always be changed back when you no longer need a play space.
• Awkward places make great storage solutions, especially if you use the space available creatively.

The post How to update your home, one room at a time appeared first on Twits Guides.

Not to worry, there are plenty of other ways you can create more space in your homes with a few ‘thinking outside the box’ tactics. In many cases it isn’t a case of adding space with extensions, but utilising the space you do have more effectively, so it in turn works better for you.

Storage, Storage and more Storage

First things first, let’s take a look at storage solutions. It seems that storage is high on the agenda for most homes and something we can never have enough of. Over a lifetime, we accumulate possessions and sometimes it’s a struggle to throw things away with the justification that “this gadget will definitely come in handy one day” or “these jeans will be back in fashion in ten years’ time”. It’s this sentimental thought process and not wanting to waste anything that can cause cupboards, drawers and even rooms to be full to the brim with unused items.

Of course, this isn’t the case with every household, as many people aren’t prone to keeping everything, but they still genuinely suffer from a lack of storage space. However, there are numerous ways you can keep all your items stored away neatly and in an organised fashion to utilise the space more.

Built-in Storage Solutions

Whilst built-in wardrobes and cupboards aren’t a new phenomenon, the modern designs we see now are far better equipped to coping with multi-functional storage. They are not only a great way to deal with a storage issue, but also can add value to your home and use space more effectively too.

The great thing about built-in storage solutions, is they can be closed units fitted with swing or sliding doors, open style shelving or a combination of the two, so you can fully incorporate your storage into the room. The versatility of built-in storage units allow you to create an area to meet your exact requirements and to make use of even the smallest or oddest shaped spaces. For example, if you have a recess in your home under the stairs, in your lounge or bedroom that doesn’t get used properly, why not create a bespoke shelving unit or cupboard so you can actually use the entire space for stashing away shoes, toys, books or anything you like.

If you’re looking for larger storage solutions, it can be a great idea to opt for a built-in unit that spans across a whole wall or certainly a large part of it in bigger rooms. This maximises the amount of storage space you’ll get with the unit, but at the same time creates continuity, with the unit becoming a focal feature rather than a randomly placed freestanding block of storage. Fitting mirrored doors will also make the room feel bigger and lighter, which is particularly important in smaller spaces.

Modern built-in storage also provides numerous ideas for storing items in your unit too, from compartmentalised drawers for smaller items to hanging hooks and with some designs, you can even create a built-in working desk or dressing table, which makes them perfect for home offices, vanity units or kid’s bedrooms.

Tidy your drawers

Whilst we’re on the subject of keeping things organised, even if you don’t have built-in storage solutions, you can still make a difference to those overflowing drawers in your kitchen, bedroom, lounge or bathroom.

Drawers are a great place for tidying away small items, such as stationary, jewellery, paperwork, takeaway menus and pretty much anything that you want to keep, but don’t want on show. However, in many cases things get chucked in a draw and soon get lost, but you can create simple, organised drawer storage solutions by creating your own draw tidy using small boxes or trays and clipping them together. With a myriad of different sized compartments, everything will be neatly in its place and you’ll find more space for storing additional items as the space is used more effectively.

Brilliant Boxes and Baskets

Other great ways to add additional storage solutions into your home is investing in some good quality boxes or baskets. Storage boxes, along with baskets, are versatile and practical. They come in all sorts of designs – clear plastic, painted wicker, printed cardboard, vintage wood – and a whole host of different shapes and sizes too. This means that you can get really creative with using boxes and baskets as storage solutions in your home. Add baskets to shelving or cupboards, so you can easily store more things on the shelves in the baskets, but they’ll be nice and neatly stowed away in a stylish way, with all items out of view. Or invest in a dual purpose footstool or coffee table that has hidden storage inside.

Also, don’t forget about the amount of dead space underneath large furniture, such as beds and sofas. Make use of that wasted space and choose some shallow boxes on wheels that can easily be pulled out and put away for those items that you don’t necessarily need access to every day. This could be rotating your summer/winter wardrobe, DVD’s, books…the possibilities are endless and so are the sizes of storage solutions available – so you’ll certainly find something to suit.

Easy kitchens

Another area in many homes that suffer from storage shortages is the kitchen. It’s a place where you need easy access to ingredients, dishes and pans; and whilst a complete kitchen extension or remodel may not be an option, you can make a few tweaks to maximise the space usage to make getting to everything nice and easy. And don’t forget there are decorating and design elements that can make a space feel larger even if it is not, such as light colours on the walls or large white porcelain tiles on the floor that reflect the light back into the room.

Innovative kitchen storage solutions, include pull out cupboards and shelves, rotating corner cupboard shelving and cupboard and drawer organisers that make life so much easier. These clever storage solutions can be added to most existing kitchen units, so you can adapt keep your spices organised with pull out wire drawers, or get to those hard to reach bowls at the back of the corner cupboard.

Another great way to utilise space in cupboards and drawers is with Tupperware and plastic boxes with lids. They not only help to keep ingredients fresher for longer, but stacking tubs and boxes will use more space in your cupboards so you can fit more in, plus they make finding items easier too.

Hang It or Shelve It

A key to getting more space in your home is to create additional floor and counter space. Of course, furniture takes up the large majority of floor space, but you’d be surprised at how much of your space is taken up unnecessarily with clutter. This is where getting items up off the floor and onto the walls can make all the difference.

Incorporating hooks and hanging areas can have a dramatic effect. It doesn’t matter whether it’s hanging your jewellery on hooks on the wall next to your dressing table, rather than taking up valuable space in a drawer, having extra hanging space for coats, scarves and hats or incorporating a hanging area for kitchen utensils or pots and pans that currently take up space on the worktop or in cupboards.

Shelving units can also allow items currently taking up valuable floor space to be stored effectively. It works incredibly well in well used areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, where you have a number of items that sit on the floor or worktops. With some stylish shelving or even a closed wall unit, you can get items such as cleaning products, spare loo rolls, cooking utensils and spices up off the floors and counters and in their own allocated space.

Decluttering = Space

Whilst creating additional space with clever storage solutions is great, it doesn’t always solve the problem of clutter, as you can simply be transporting stuff from one area to another and simply putting it out of sight and out of mind.

This is why if you are looking to create more space in your home, it’s also a good idea to have a good old-fashioned clear out. No one is saying you should get rid of everything, but taking a more objective and realistic approach to your belongings can help to create additional space.

Knowing exactly what you have and where it’s stored will mean you can house your belongings in a more structured and organised way. Sorting through items and categorising them in terms of the frequency of their use, will make sure that the items you need most frequently are easily accessible, whereas things that are used once, maybe twice a year aren’t taking up valuable front row space.

If you’re worried about things going to waste, why not donate to charity shops or friends, as well as sell good conditioned items on classified websites. That bit of extra money could go towards a built in storage unit!

Consider Your Home Layout

It’s amazing that when you live somewhere, you soon become accustomed to the layout of the furniture; and what in many cases was a temporary layout, remains that way for years, despite the fact it may not actually use the space particularly well.

Where you position your furniture, as well as the size and style can play a significant role in how big or small your home feels and the amount of space that is utilised. Choosing the right position, size and style of furniture appropriate for your home can make all the difference to the amount of space you have to live in.

For example, a huge, chunky dining room table that seats 8 people, will swamp a dining room that’s really only designed to fit a table of 4-6 people. In this instance, you may want to consider downsizing to a smaller table that also has the option to expand for more seating as and when you need it. Also, think about the positioning of furniture, do you have your sofa in front of the bay window in your living room? Have you considered how much space behind the sofa is wasted? Moving the sofa against a wall, can open up the room and allow you to use the recessed area more effectively, whether it’s incorporating additional chairs, a coffee table or storage.

When you’re planning the layout of any room, be it your living room, bedroom, bathroom or kitchen, it’s important to think about the purpose of the room and how you spend your time in there, as well as factoring in walkways. These fundamental elements of planning will make sure you create an area that fits your requirements and isn’t a pain to manoeuvre around.

Where you can, position large furniture such as chairs, beds and sofas flush against the wall, as putting them at an angle will waste space. The same goes for freestanding shelving units, dressers, wardrobes and drawers. Also pay close attention that none of these furniture items are impeding access or walkways as this can make a room feel smaller and less accessible. You want to be able to easily come in and out of a room, as well as walk through it without having to negotiate a lot of furniture on the way.

Avoid Overcrowding

Also be sure that when you’re positioning your furniture that you aren’t overcrowding the room. Sometimes, less is more for creating a well-laid out room that looks spacious and comfortable, so if space is premium in your home, be as minimalistic as you can. Focus on the essential furniture you need in a room first, such as seating, entertainment and storage, then move onto less essential items.

The same rules apply for the size of your furniture. It’s all about choosing furniture that matches the size of your rooms. Unless you have lots of space, avoid large and chunky furniture designs, as these will simply take over small spaces and eat into valuable living space.

As you can see, there are plenty of options for making better use of existing space in your home without the cost of extending. Whether you incorporate clever storage solutions, declutter or reinvest in new furniture pieces, by making some small changes in your home, you can have a really big impact on the space you’re left to work with.

The post Savvy Storage Solutions – The Alternative to Building an Extension appeared first on Twits Guides.

Can you make your spaces bigger?

Firstly, it is important to consider if you can extend any of the existing rooms within the house in a cost effective way. By simply converting a garage in to a usable room, or adding a toilet downstairs this can make a big difference to the amount of storage space available and the level of comfort for everyone. If there is a large room, adding a small ‘en suite’ can take the pressure off the ‘family bathroom’ and it means that there won’t be a queue in the morning with everyone getting ready at a similar time to leave for work or school. If the new en-suite can be position close to the existing bathroom then that can keep costs down. There are also plenty of good, cheap bathroom fittings available online and a range of inexpensive porcelain tiles – and you won’t need many for an en-suite so it’s an affordable project.

The entrance

Another option is to perhaps add a porch and incorporate a cloak room or storage solution for coats and shoes. Remember that the entrance to the house is the first thing everyone sees when they arrive, so having an area that is clutter free, and where items such as shoes and clothing have a place to be stored is crucial. It may be that the number of people in your house is doubling, so by creating a porch area or cupboard to store the outdoor clothing it will keep everything kept out of sight.

Storage solutions for the living areas

Whether you are updating your existing living area or creating an extra space, the amount of storage available needs to factor in everyone in the house. If it is a house with younger children, they will need their homely comforts and toys to hand to make them feel welcome and keep them entertained. Whether you have older teenagers or younger children coming together, extra sofas or seating is a must. Everyone needs to be able to feel comfortable as this will be an area that is most commonly used and where everyone can come together to relax.

What to use an extra room for?

If you have the luxury of being able to convert a garage in to an extra room, it is crucial to consider everyone when allocating what this space will be used for. By using cube storage solutions, or bookshelves along a wall, you can significantly increase the amount of storage available to everyone involved. It also allows for things to be kept neat and tidy, making the home feel less cluttered. Whilst the majority of items can be stored in other rooms, everyone needs their homely comforts in the room that they will spend the most time.

Cube storage solutions

Cube storage is an ideal storage solution in living spaces. Not only can you purchase colour coordinated boxes to create a colour scheme for your room, these boxes can also hold a lot of items. Each child (or adult!) could be allocated their own box(es) or space to store their things, making everyone feel that their items are just as valued as everyone else’s. Bookcases are also a good choice too as it allows you to store a range of items; CDs. DVDs, or books will all look right at home in one of these. Certain shelves can also be reserved for those all-important family photos showing happy times together.

Creating a second space with a television will accommodate different tastes in programs and channels. If this is possible, it could be that this extra space is also where children’s toys are stored, or a home office is created. By having an additional living area, it means that if anyone is feeling the need for a bit of personal space or quiet, that this can be achieved easily. After a busy day at work or school, having the physical environment that promotes calm and peace can help to relieve stress.

The bedrooms

When two families come together, it may be the case that people who have previously had their own room now have to share. Whilst this can cause conflict, it is possible for everyone to have their own space, even within the confines of one room. In the case of children, beds that contain storage solutions within them are ideal. Cabin beds, or beds with shelving and a desk underneath mean that each child would get their own area to sleep, store their items, and study. A room can also be blocked off in to two distinct areas by using curtains or drapes. A more practical way to partition a room is to use the cube storage previously mentioned and the great thing about this type of shelving is that not only can they totally separate two areas within a room, the boxes provide extra storage solutions for toys, clothing or other personal items. As many shops stock this type of storage, it can be bought in whichever size needed to create two discrete spaces within one room.

Decoration considerations

Decorating can also be a way of distinguish different areas. It could be that the room is painted one colour but items such as wall stickers or pictures unique to each person in the room are used to create a more personal, comfortable environment. On the other hand, the room could be painted in two contrasting colours to create two very distinct (and equal!) spaces. Whichever you choose, it is important that each child is made to feel like they have their own space and create a homely environment for them.

It’s not just the kids that should be considered

As two adults come together, storage and space can also be an issue for them. Even though it is the adults who have made the decision to bring two families together in to one space, the adults too, need their bedroom to feel comfortable and inviting for them. An honest, open discussion is needed beforehand for preferences of colour and choice of storage solution. In the case of a woman moving in to a man’s home, or indeed a new home, the woman may have a preference for having a dressing table, or certain types of storage for their clothes. This will need to be factored in to the space available as these can be quite large!

Clothing storage solutions

Floor to ceiling sliding wardrobes are an ideal way to create lots of space and storage, but the space behind the door can also be adapted to suit the individual. For example, one person may prefer to have more drawers and less hanging space. This can be accommodated by buying drawer inserts for the wardrobe, and reducing the hanging rail space. Because these can be personalised it means that each person will have the correct type of storage for their items.

The bathroom

A bathroom is normally quite a fixed room in terms of the plumbing and the positioning of the suite and his can rarely be easily moved around. However, extending the bathroom or creating an extra space could be hugely beneficial. This is one room that everyone needs to have access to regularly, and quite often at a similar time of day (morning and evenings). If you can enlarge the space or create another one it would be advisable to do so. If you do not have the luxury of doing this, the space can be used creatively to ensure everyone has access to what they need quickly, reducing the amount of time they spend in there.

Bathroom storage solutions

One example of this is a mirror that is also a cupboard above the sink. If items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste and other daily essentials are stored here they can be quickly accessed by all. A cupboard under the sink is another ideal storage option to keep cleaning products, toilet rolls and even small towels to hand but keep them out of sight and make the bathroom clutter free. High shelving is an excellent way of storing towels as it keeps them to hand, and keeps the bathroom feeling like a wider, open space. Within the shower or bath, having enough storage for everyone’s hair and body products is an essential and there are shower shelves on the market that would be perfect for this. Everyone has their own preferences and creating enough space for everyone to have their own products will reduce the amount of time spent hunting for things!

The kitchen

Kitchen with Breakfast Bar and Dinning Table

Unless you have the luxury of putting in a whole new kitchen, this is another room that is totally fixed in terms of layout. In this area, it is important to ensure that there is enough cutlery and crockery to accommodate the growing family. Where 6 plates may have been enough for 2 or 3 people, it could be that more need to be purchased to allow everyone to have access to these without having to constantly wash up! If there is a breakfast bar or seating area, it is essential to consider how many more chairs or seats are needed so that everyone can sit down to eat. Whilst a breakfast bar may not accommodate everyone due to its size, having a dining table where everyone can come together for meals is a great way to bring people closer and share special moments of the day. In addition to this, there are many inserts for cupboards that provide storage solutions for many different kitchen items – after all, there will likely be a few extra items coming in to the house to cater for individual tastes.

Considering all spaces available

Looking at all the different areas within the house that could be adapted for a growing family is an ideal way to create extra space. It is a matter of looking what is available and consider how it can be used in a different way. Using the existing cupboard space, such as those under the stairs (if you have some!) or airing cupboards more efficiently, can create the much needed storage space that is needed for all the extra items that will be brought in to the home. The option of outdoor storage is also not to be forgotten. An outdoor shed is a great way to store items that won’t be affected by changes in weather.

Using attic or basement space can also add more room for everyone coming together. It can be a simple DIY job, such as boarding out the loft space which will allow items that are not needed regularly to be kept safe and sound, without cluttering up the existing space. Quite often people have sentimental items that they wish to keep, however don’t need to have access to on a daily basis. The attic is a perfect place to store these items. The attic can even be used to create a whole extra room or space. A basement can be an excellent area to place an extra freezer or fridge to store the additional food. If the plumbing is in place washing machines and dryers can be moved to basement areas creating extra living space in your kitchen areas.

Bringing everyone together happily

As you can see, there are many factors that need to be considered when combining two families. The most important thing is to ensure that each person feels like that they have their own space and feels ‘at home’. By utilising storage solutions, or using the space more creatively, it can be easy to bring together two families in to one abode. Making sure that everyone’s thoughts and opinions are shared will help to create harmony and bring two families together easily. Giving everyone a sense of the new house becoming their home, is the ultimate goal. It can be difficult to come together in a home however it is easy to make everyone feel valued and welcome with forward planning. Whether it is extending the space, adapting the space, or creating extra storage, there are many options available.

The post Storage solutions for combined families appeared first on Twits Guides.

As we get older the amount of possessions we own seem to grow and storage space becomes a most sought after attribute in any home.How many times have you said to yourself that you just don’t have enough space in your home for all your things? As we grow and make a family, the amount of things everybody has just seems to be insurmountable. It can be tempting to just say you need to move but moving home is an unnecessary hassle just to be able to store all your valuable and sentimental possession. Making use of the available space you already have with DIY is easier than you may think.

When you look around your home, there will be many places of untapped potential that, with a little bit of DIY and creative thinking, you can turn into innovative and beautiful storage areas. So let’s take a look around the home and identify some of the areas in each room which could be turned into handy storage with some DIY and a touch of creativity.

Kitchen

The kitchen is one area of the home that most people feel they simply don’t have enough room. You need cupboards for food, pans, utensil, plates; the list goes on and on. Unless you have thousands to spend on a brand new kitchen with an array of fancy storage options, you may need to get creative to get the storage you want.

So let’s start under the sink. We all have a cupboard under the sink which is generally unused. Don’t waste any valuable space in the hunt for extra storage. Add an extra shelf in there to give yourself more options. Cupboard doors can be turned into extra storage with the addition on a space saver storage rack on the back of cupboard doors. Cleaning supplies, bin bags and any other smaller objects can be stored in these racks giving you extra shelf space.

Cupboard space and storage units are key in any kitchen and most people feel they just don’t have enough. It is relatively easy to implement your DIY skills to add extra cupboards in your kitchen if you need them. You can also add shelving above existing cupboards for pans and pots which you don’t use every day. Knife blocks and magnetic knife holders, which attach to the wall, are also both great ways to save drawer space. You may also want to consider a ceiling rack above any kitchen islands as a great place to hang pots, pans and utensils to save yourself valuable cupboard space.

Lounge

The lounge is where you and your family will spend much of your time relaxing and entertaining. Most people will have amassed a collection of sentimental and personal items by the time they come to own their own home which will take pride of place in the lounge. Extra display and storage options in this room are essential to create the relaxing environment which a lounge should be.

Shelving is the obvious first solution to storage options in the lounge. Even with limited DIY knowledge and skill, putting up shelving is relatively simple and gives you an extra option to display some of your prized possessions. Selecting furniture options for you lounge with extra storage space can also give you extra space to store belongings and also add you your overall décor. Coffee tables with drawers, small cabinets, sideboards and bureaus all give you added storage solutions whilst also give you the opportunity to create a stunning, elegant look to your lounge. You can also investigate the possibility of foot stools which open up to reveal storage on the inside.

If you have alcoves in your lounge, either side of a fire place for example, you have a fantastic opportunity to create some built in storage in this space. A little DIY skill and you can create built in shelves and cupboards within your alcoves which won’t intrude into the space within your lounge and blend in seamlessly within the room. If you have stairs in your lounge then you can also add built in storage cupboards in the space underneath them and create a functional and uniquely shaped cupboard.

If your lounge features an unused or closed off fireplace and chimney breast then this can be converted into an innovative storage option. Opening up the original fireplace and blocking off the chimney above can give you a sizeable space for a built in cupboard or area to place a cabinet, sideboard or shelves. This can be made a real feature in your lounge and give you a creative and unique storage option which make use of all available space.

Hallway

You may not have considered your hallway as a space which you can add storage too but it shouldn’t be ignored. The space under your stairs makes for an ideal built in cupboard area which can be as big or small as you would like. Here you can store big bulky items such as hoovers and also an area to keep shoes and coats so that they don’t clutter your hallway. If you have a boiler cupboard either in your upstairs or downstairs hallway, then this can be converted into a handy storage place for bedding and towels with a simple touch of DIY to add shelving in this area. The hallway is also a fantastic area to add large pieces of furniture such as dressers, bureaus and sideboards. These large pieces of furniture not only give you plenty of storage options but also create a huge impact on people when the entre your home.

Bedrooms

Your bedroom should be a place of peace, tranquillity and relaxation. The presence of clutter or mess can actually have a large negative impact on your sleep as an untidy atmosphere doesn’t lend itself to a restful night’s sleep. Storage space in the bedroom is vital so that you can keep order and calm in what is meant to be the most relaxing area of the home.

Of course the furniture in your bedroom will give you extra storage such as wardrobes and sets of drawers but you can also buy beds which offer storage options. Divan beds often have drawer underneath or you can opt for a bed which mattress rises to expose storage underneath. Built in wardrobes also offer a fantastic array of storage and design options to suit any taste. You can often customise the inside of your built in wardrobe with a simply touch of DIY to add shoe racks, drawers and accessory and jewellery storage. Built in wardrobes can be made to almost any shape and specification to fit any space. They are the ideal solution for uneven or sloped ceilings and smaller bedrooms.

A window seat adds a touch of elegance and old world charm to any bedroom and can also give you added storage options. A window seat is an easily constructed built in storage option which can be made with even the basic DIY knowledge. Situated within the space underneath a large or bay window, a window seat is an innovative use of unused space and the seat itself can be hinged to expose a large storage compartment underneath; ideal for bulky bedding and towels.

Bedrooms often have chimney breasts running through them and if your fireplace downstairs in unused or blocked then you can convert the chimney breast in the bedroom into a built in cupboard or storage space. By removing some of the brickwork and inserting wooden boards and supports, a small cupboard, wardrobe or set back shelving space can be created to make use of every space possible to create unique storage options.

Bathroom

We all use a number of products in the bathroom from shampoo and body wash to moisturiser and shaving gel. Nobody likes the look of clutter and all these products sitting on the side of the bath or sink starts to look unsightly. Storage solutions in the bathroom may seem tricky or thin on the ground but if you get a little creative, there are plenty of ways to add extra storage no matter how big or small your bathroom is.

The space under the bathroom sink is often neglected when it comes to storage solutions buts it is relatively easy and quick to create a storage area in this space. You can choose to create a cupboard or shelving unit which accommodate the base of the sink and works around it to give you an area which you can store bath or cleaning products out of sight and out of the way.

Cupboard can be fixed to the bathroom wall to give you a storage option which is versatile and useful. Cupboard doors can be modified to have rack on them too to extra options to store all your bathroom necessities. You can also create a simple cupboard or shelving unit to sit above the toilet for loo rolls and wipes to be stored, all it takes is some basic DIY knowhow.

Almost everywhere in the bathroom can be used to create storage options if you get a little creative. Even the space above the bathroom door can be used to add shelves to give you a place to put your bathroom items up and out of the way. Tiles can be removed from the walls and small alcoves created in the bathroom to give you built in storage for items such as shower and wash products. A little creative and innovative thinking can help you to look at the space in your bathroom in a different light and see potential to create unique storage solutions even if your bathroom is small and compact.

Loft

Your loft or attic may currently be used as a dumping ground for unused clothes, toys, keepsakes and the Christmas tree but with a little TLC and a touch of DIY, you can turn this space into more than just a place to throw bags and boxes full of knick-knacks.

Firstly, if your loft isn’t boarded out then this should be your first job. Putting in proper, stable flooring in your loft gives you the means to be able to walk around and use all of the space in your loft without fear of coming through the ceiling. Even if you only plan on using the space to put unused items out of the way, boarding the floor is essential so that you can make the most of the space in a safe manner.

Once your loft floor is boarded out you can then look at how exactly you wish to use the space. To make the most of the room you can add built in wardrobes and cupboards around the edges of the loft. As previously mentioned, built in wardrobes can be made to any specification so they can take into account for the sloped loft ceiling and give you a storage option which is tidy and organised. You then have the rest of the floor space to do as you wish; a work are or craft room are popular choices for loft spaces. You may even consider adding a Velux window and turning the space into an extra bedroom.

Conservatory

The addition of a conservatory to your home can give you many extra storage options. The addition of a new room to your home could be just what you need to give you and your family the extra room you crave without needing to move house. While a conservatory may not be the ideal room for built in storage options due to the glass walls, it will give you extra space for items of furniture which will aid in your mission for extra storage in your home.

Get creative with DIY storage

If you need extra storage options in your home then all it takes is some creative thinking. DIY knowledge can help you save money by converting space into storage yourself and many of the tips and tricks mentioned here can be done easily yourself. Think outside of the box and get innovative in your storage solutions to create spaces and designs which suit your personality and your home.

The post DIY tips for maximising home storage appeared first on Twits Guides.

Considering the Space – Doubling Up

Your first task is to consider the space your have available for your bathroom design – whether your bathroom is large or small, layout is very important. The majority of standard bathrooms come with bath, shower, toilet and sink. However, to create a space that works for both of you, a large shower or double shower could be the perfect solution! Or perhaps a large bathtub – which might also inject some romance – if you can get 5 minutes peace that is! Using an online room planner is a great way to see your bathrooms potential. A double basin is also an obvious his ‘n hers addition to your bathroom, but this shouldn’t be a decision you take lightly. Having two sinks allows you the space and facilities to get ready quickly morning and night with the battle of who’s going first, but also creates more clutter and gives you less counter space.

Mirrors and Décor

Mirrors in a small space are great at opening up a room, so placing two mirrors or one large mirror over the double basin will not only serve as a practical component but will help your bathroom feel more spacious. Decoration of your bathroom can be tricky and this is something that you should carefully consider together. Usually going down the route of a neutral colour scheme is the safest bet. However adding some touches of glamour – for example, designer tiles with some shimmer will help give your bathroom that extra bit of romance and luxury to make your space feel special.

Toilet matters

When it comes to the rest of the bathroom suite, installing a wall mounted toilet, can really make your room feel bigger. Wall mounted basins mean that you will have more space for storage underneath to hide those bathroom items you like to keep out of sight.

Storage options

Storage can be added around the double basin, ensuring that you are making the most out of the space you have available. Separating this into to his n’ hers drawers or cupboards will help keep you both organised without clashing over who’s products are where? And maybe even whose products are who’s?

If you have the room, adding more storage can be helpful for storing towels, toiletries and cleaning products – freeing up more space elsewhere in the house. Building storage or furnishings that purposefully fit a space will help make the most of your home, making sure that you cleverly make use or wall space as well as floor space is essential to making your bathroom layout work to its full potential.

Once your couples bathroom design is complete, you’ll have a sense of satisfaction that you both have your own bathroom space, but with a touch of togetherness too.

The post What elements to Include In a His ‘n Hers Bathroom Design appeared first on Twits Guides.

Get the kids involved in the bedroom design

The trick is to involve the children as far as possible – ask them for their bedroom design ideas and inspiration, what would make them love their room and be happy to share it? Obviously, this will depend very much upon age and stage of the children but even the very youngest can have input on colour and décor. Bear in mind you may need to adjust some of their suggestions, though, especially teenagers who might want radical decor such as black walls and gold designer tiles on the floor.

Celebrate their differences

One of the easiest, quickest and most cost-effective ways of visually dividing the room is to decorate according to each child’s taste to give them a real sense of ownership of their half. This can be done with toning or complementary colours, or feature wallpapered walls in papers from the same ranges – an easy weekend’s DIY for anyone. If you’re a little more ambitious or nifty with a paintbrush you could attempt a personalised mural in matching colours to their décor choices as part of your bedroom design – keep it simple with their name, or a favourite sport reference. If you’re not that confident, a mural artist could design something for you.

Think about flooring too – if it’s a wooden floor, it could be painted half and half, or choose different coloured lino, laminates or carpets. Just don’t go over the top with different elements – keep certain things simple and the same to make the whole scheme work. For instance, use the same good quality white bed linen on both beds and plain, neutral curtains or blinds.

Divide and conquer

For a more physical division, buy a screen – or perhaps make your own room divider with three cupboard doors hinged together, or a simple, hinged wooden frame and kid-friendly fabric – a different print each side or you could even let them loose with plain fabric and specialist fabric paint or pens. Older children might like the industrial vibe of a screen crafted from pallets or salvaged (unglazed) window frames. Maybe they’d like a noticeboard, or blackboard style one to display their own photographs and artworks? For a sturdier barrier, try customising furniture to do the job. Shallow bookcases set back to back could work well (providing they’re correctly secured to avoid toppling accidents) as could modern, modular open shelving, allowing access to books and games from either side.

High sleeper beds can really make a difference!

Possibly the best way to clearly designate each child’s side of the room is to construct a custom high sleeper bed which can accommodate a desk and wardrobe, ensuring that each child definitely has his or her own space and storage whilst also maximising usable floor space for playing or studying.

Let your imagination – and skills, whatever their level, run wild and your children will thank you for their funky and creative room of which their friends are so envious. We can’t promise it will prevent all bickering, but it should definitely make a difference!

The post How to Create a Bedroom Design your Kids will Love to Share appeared first on Twits Guides.

1. Clean as you go

Yes, it’s obvious; yes, it’s common-sense – but that’s because it really works. Keep a cordless vacuum cleaner – so vacuuming is absolutely effortless and doesn’t involve plugs and wires – and a portable ‘cleaning kit’ with sprays, polishes, dusters, cloths and wipes. Don’t leave anything out once it’s finished with. As you walk out of a room, or up the stairs, take stuff with you. Nipping to the bathroom or having a quick coffee? Wipe a surface. Put used crockery straight into the dishwasher. Train the family to do so too – no one should be allowed dinner/internet/to play until they’ve tidied up. It’ll soon become habit and nobody will even notice.

If you’re pushed for time, just clean the kitchen and bathroom. In those rooms, hygiene is a must, so prioritise. If your wall and floor tiles are clean and gleaming it’s easy to overlook the odd bit of clutter elsewhere. Let’s face it, your house is lived in! A quick polish everywhere else should suffice – the scent of polish gives the illusion of a clean house anyway.

2.Storage, storage, storage:

Everywhere. When everything has a place there’s no need for mess. Many stores specialise in storage solutions which you can customise or build up to fit your space and requirements but you could also choose to create your own to perfectly suit your rooms. Any odd spaces or alcoves are crying out for made-to-fit cupboards, shelves or other storage systems, but everyday furniture can offer storage space, too – cabinets with hooks and rails attached underneath; fireplaces with pigeonholes, tables with drawers… the list is almost endless.

3.Stack it up, but decoratively!

Are you a stacker? You know, someone who seems to collect stacks of… stuff. All sorts of stuff, all over everywhere. Catalogues, books, magazines, recipes and the like? Make a feature of them, again with useful storage. There are some really attractive and stylish office or kitchen storage systems which could actually make a lovely feature. Again, customise them or even make your own – fabric covered boxes and files, or prettily-lined baskets will keep the house neat-and-tidy as well as attractive.

4. Lose the clutter

Keep surfaces clear and the house will look cleaner (plus you won’t need to lift things in order to dust). Plants on windowsills and mantelpieces look fresh and clean and will prevent you from adding yet more clutter.

Now, treat yourself to a bunch of fresh flowers – really, they’ll help the house look clean and smell good, too!

The post 4 Ways to Make your Home Look Clean and Decluttered! appeared first on Twits Guides.