New Year, New Home?: A 30-Day Reset Plan for a Fresh Start in 2025

We partnered with a home improvement company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

As we approach the end of another year,  there's no better time to reimagine and revitalize our living spaces. A new year can signal a fresh start, but what better way to embrace this spirit than by giving our homes a complete reset?

In this article, we’ll give you all the top tricks and tips you need to prepare your home for 2025. In just 30 days, you can transform your home into an organized, efficient, and relaxing environment, ready to take on the year ahead - so let's get started! 

Why Is A Home Reset So Beneficial? 

An organized and well-maintained home can significantly reduce stress, increase productivity, and create a more peaceful atmosphere. It allows you to start the new year with a clean slate, both literally and figuratively. Moreover, an efficiently organized home can save you time and energy in your day-to-day activities, leaving you more space to focus on your goals and aspirations for the year ahead.

This 30-day guide offers a structured way to tackle your home, in easy step-by-step tasks. Everything from decluttering, deep cleaning and home maintenance is covered in the plan, ensuring you end up with a space you’ll know is clean, clear and safe to enjoy. 

If you’re ready to reset your home and set the stage for an amazing 2025, then read on to follow our 30-day journey! 

Week 1: Declutter and Assess (Days 1-7)

The first week of our home reset focuses on decluttering and assessing your living spaces. This crucial step lays the foundation for the entire process, allowing you to clear out unnecessary items and gain a clear picture of your home's potential. This week can include the following areas: 

1. Bedrooms and Closets
   Start your journey in the most personal spaces of your home. Begin by sorting through your clothing, shoes, and accessories. Use the tried-and-true method of creating three piles: keep, donate, and discard/sell. Be ruthless in your decisions – if you haven't used or worn an item in the past year, it's likely time to let it go.

2. Living Room and Entertainment Areas
   Focus on decluttering surfaces like coffee tables, bookshelves, and entertainment centers. Sort through magazines, books, and DVDs. Consider digitizing media where possible to reduce physical clutter. Evaluate your decor items and keep only those that truly bring you joy or serve a purpose.

3. Kitchen and Dining Areas
   Tackle your kitchen cabinets, pantry, and refrigerator. Check expiration dates on food items and dispose of anything past its prime. Sort through cookware, utensils, and small appliances, keeping only what you regularly use. 

4. Bathrooms
   Go through medicine cabinets, under-sink storage, and linen closets. Discard expired medications and beauty products. Assess your towels and washcloths, donating any that are worn out. Organize your daily essentials to make your morning routine more efficient.

5. Home Office and Study Areas
   Sort through paperwork, filing what's important and shredding what's not. Organize your desk drawers and office supplies. Evaluate your books and reference materials, donating those you no longer need. Create a system for managing incoming mail and bills.

6. Storage Areas (Garage, Basement, Attic)
   These areas often become catchalls for items we're not sure what to do with. Be especially critical here, as these spaces can harbor long-forgotten items. Sort through boxes, tools, and seasonal decorations. Consider having a garage sale for items in good condition that you no longer need.

7. Digital Declutter
   Don't forget about your digital spaces! Clean up your computer desktop, organize your files, and back up important documents. Unsubscribe from unnecessary email lists and delete old emails. Go through your phone apps, delete those you don't use, and organize your photos.

Remember, the goal this week is not perfection, but progress. As you declutter, you'll start to see your spaces in a new light, setting the stage for the deep cleaning and organizing to come. 

Don't be discouraged if you can't finish each area in a single day – the important thing is to keep moving forward. By the end of this week, you'll have significantly lightened your load and gained a clear vision of your home's potential for the new year.

Week 2: Deep Clean and Maintain (Days 8-14)

With the clutter cleared, it's time to give your home a thorough clean. This week focuses on deep cleaning each area of your home, paying attention to often-overlooked spots. It’s also the perfect time to establish a sustainable cleaning routine to maintain your spaces. Consider the following areas:

Kitchen Deep Clean

• Cleaning inside and outside of appliances (refrigerator, oven, microwave)

• Degreasing stovetop and range hood

• Scrubbing sink and disinfecting drain

• Wiping down cabinets

• Mopping floors and cleaning baseboards

Bathroom Deep Clean

• Scrub and disinfect toilet, bathtub, and shower

• Clean and polish mirrors and fixtures

• Wash shower curtains and bath mats (or replace them)

• Descale showerheads and faucets

Living Areas and Bedrooms

• Vacuum and steam clean carpets and rugs

• Dust and polish furniture

• Clean window treatments (curtains, blinds)

• Wash bedding, including mattress pads and pillows

• Rotate and vacuum /disinfect mattresses

Windows, Doors, and Floor

• Clean windows inside and out

• Wash window screens

• Wipe down door frames and handles

• Deep clean all types of flooring (hardwood, tile, linoleum)

• Clean light fixtures and ceiling fans

Appliances and Electronics

• Clean washing machine and dryer (including lint traps)

• Descale coffee maker and electric kettle

• Sanitize small appliances (toaster, blender, food processor)

• Dust and clean electronics (TV, computer, speakers)

Outdoor Areas and Entryways

• Sweep and clean porch or patio

• Wash outdoor furniture

• Clean doormats

• Organize shoe storage and coat closets

• Wipe down mailbox and house numbers

Wrap up the week by setting up a system to maintain your hard work. This could include a daily cleaning checklist for quick touch-ups; weekly and monthly cleaning task lists and stocking up on cleaning supplies. Having a cleaning routine will make your day-to-day life easier and more enjoyable. 

Remember, a clean home is not just about appearances – it's about creating a healthy living environment. Pay attention to areas that can harbor allergens and bacteria, such as air vents, door handles, and light switches. 

Week 3: Maintenance Checks (Days 15-21)

After all your hard work, you’re probably more familiar with each area of your home than ever before! This is great because our next steps are to look out for and identify any areas of the home that need maintenance or repairs. 

This can cover many areas of a property, but a key place to begin is by seeking out any issues that can affect your home's energy efficiency. This can be greatly impacted by even the smallest draft or issues with your boiler - so it’s important to fix these early on. An inefficient home can lead to higher energy bills and carbon emissions, so it’s well worth checking out these areas:

1. Inspect Doors and Windows
Begin by thoroughly examining all doors and windows in your home. Check for visible cracks, gaps, or damages in frames. Look for signs of wear or deterioration and assess the condition of the windows glazing.

Feel around the edges of windows and doors to detect any drafts, these can usually be quickly treated with weatherstripping or draft excluders. However, a professional repair or replacement might be necessary if you spot larger areas of damage, such as condensation between the panes or crumbling surround material. 

It’s worth getting a professional installer's advice on any new windows cost, and comparing quotes before you make a decision. This gives you the best chance to find an affordable repair from a reliable installer. 

2. Check Heating and Water Systems

It’s also vital that you check the health and safety of any heating systems you have in the home. Whether it’s a boiler, heat pump or air conditioning, you should ensure they are being serviced regularly and that any functional problems are checked as soon as possible. 

3. Lighting and Fixtures

Electricity is not something to take for granted - any areas you spot that may be exposing wires, or showing loose connections, must be treated urgently. The health and safety of your home and family is the most important thing.

4. Safety Devices 

While checking for any issues, it’s vital to also check the health of the safety devices in your home. This includes smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms and any air filtration systems. You may not spot any issues right now, but you’ll want to be sure that if something does go wrong, you will be alerted to it.  

Based on your checks and assessments, it’s important to put into action any repair requests as soon as possible. Research your options, collate quotes and start consulting professionals to get serious problems dealt with quickly. 

Week 4: Create New Habits and Routines (Days 22-28)

The final week of our home reset focuses on establishing new habits and routines to maintain the organization and cleanliness you've achieved. This week is crucial for ensuring that your efforts have a lasting impact throughout the year.
You may have some new routines you already wish to start, but here are some suggestions to get you going:

Establish a Daily Tidying Routine

Create a simple, effective daily tidying routine, including tasks such as:

• Implement a "10-minute tidy" at the end of each day

• Make beds immediately after waking up

• Clear and wipe down kitchen counters after each meal

• Sort mail daily to prevent paper clutter

• Encourage family members to return items to their designated places

Set Up a Meal Planning and Grocery System

You could streamline your kitchen processes:

• Create a weekly meal planning routine

• Set up a digital or physical grocery list system

• Organize recipes for easy access

• Implement a first-in, first-out system for pantry and refrigerator

• Establish a routine for checking expiration dates and food inventory

Create a Laundry Schedule

Develop a system to keep clothing organized and well-maintained:

• Establish a regular laundry schedule (e.g., one load per day or designated laundry days)

• Set up a sorting system for dirty laundry

• Create a routine for folding and putting away clean clothes promptly

• Implement a system for dealing with clothes that need mending or dry cleaning

• Schedule seasonal clothing rotations and storage

Develop a Home Maintenance Checklist
Create a proactive approach to home maintenance:

• Develop a monthly, seasonal, and annual maintenance checklist

• Set reminders for regular tasks like changing air filters and checking smoke detectors

• Create a system for tracking home repairs and improvements

• Establish a routine for checking and maintaining major appliances

Throughout this week, focus on making these new habits as easy and automatic as possible. Use reminders, checklists, or apps to help you stay on track. Remember, it takes time to form new habits, so be patient with yourself and your family members as you adjust to these new routines.

Final Stretch (Days 28-30)

On these final days, take time to reflect on your progress - is there anything outstanding you didn’t get to, but would really like to finish? Or have you come across a new area that you want to reorganize? You could use these days to take items to a thrift store, or sell them online - whatever you do with this time, make it count.  

Then, if you’ve hit the end of the 30-day reset, congratulate yourself! We hope your home will now be transformed into a space you feel comfortable and calm in, and that you can be super proud of. 

Maintaining an organized home is an ongoing process, however, so be patient with yourself and stay flexible as you adapt to new habits. Your efforts over this month will create a solid foundation for a clutter-free, energy-efficient, and harmonious home environment. As you move into 2025, you can start off fresh with a space that supports your goals and enhances your well-being - so here's to a year of increased productivity, reduced stress, and a home that truly works for you.

Elevate Your Space with the Right Tile Choice for Your Home

The world of interior design offers endless opportunities to personalize and enhance your living spaces. One of the most impactful ways to elevate your home's aesthetic is through the right selection of tiles. Whether you're renovating your kitchen, bathroom, or any other area, choosing the perfect tile can transform your home. This guide will walk homeowners through essential considerations to ensure the tile choice complements the overall design and functionality of your space.

Understanding Your Space Requirements

Identifying the specific needs of the space you're tiling is the first step in making the right choice. Consider the room's purpose and how frequently it is used. High-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms require durable materials that can withstand wear and tear. Conversely, tiles in a bedroom or study may prioritize aesthetics over durability.

Assess the room's lighting conditions as well. Natural light can highlight the texture and color of tiles, while dimly lit areas may benefit from lighter tiles to brighten the space. Reflect on how these elements align with your lifestyle and the ambiance you wish to create.

Finally, account for the space's size and layout. Large tiles can make a small room feel more expansive, while intricate patterns might suit more confined areas. By understanding your space requirements, you can narrow down your options effectively.

Exploring Different Tile Materials

Tiles come in a myriad of materials, each offering distinct characteristics. Ceramic tiles are a popular choice due to their affordability and versatility. They're easy to clean and come in various colors and patterns, making them suitable for many areas of the home.

Porcelain tiles are known for their durability and water resistance, making them ideal for bathrooms and kitchens. Their dense composition allows them to mimic natural stone's appearance without the maintenance.

Natural stone tiles, such as marble, granite, and slate, provide a luxurious touch to any room. These materials require more care but offer unmatched elegance. Explore each material's pros and cons to determine which aligns best with your design vision.

Choosing the Right Tile Color

Color plays a crucial role in setting the mood of a room. Neutral tones like whites, creams, and grays are timeless and versatile, providing a clean backdrop that can be accented with colorful decor. Bold colors, on the other hand, can create a focal point and add personality to your space.

Consider the existing color scheme in your home. Harmonizing tile colors with your walls, furniture, and accessories can create a cohesive look. Alternatively, opting for contrasting colors can add depth and interest.

Keep in mind the psychological impact of color as well. Blues and greens evoke calmness, making them suitable for bedrooms and bathrooms. Warm tones like reds and yellows can energize a kitchen or dining area. Choose a color that resonates with the atmosphere you want to cultivate.

Decoding Tile Sizes and Shapes

The size and shape of your tiles can dramatically affect the room's appearance. Large-format tiles create an illusion of space and are easier to clean due to fewer grout lines. They're excellent for open areas like living rooms and hallways.

Mosaic tiles, with their intricate patterns and small shapes, offer a unique design element. They're perfect for accent walls or backsplashes, where detail can be appreciated up close.

Rectangular tiles, such as subway tiles, are a classic choice that can be laid in various patterns, including herringbone and stacked layouts. Consider the proportions of your room when selecting tile sizes and shapes to ensure they complement the overall design.

Evaluating Tile Finishes

Tile finishes add the final touch to your design, influencing both aesthetics and functionality. Glossy finishes reflect light and can make a room feel larger, though they may show scratches more easily. They're often used in kitchens and bathrooms to increase brightness.

Matte finishes offer a softer, understated look that minimizes glare. They provide good traction, making them suitable for floors and wet areas. Consider matte finishes for a more relaxed, organic feel.

Textured finishes add depth and interest, mimicking natural materials like stone or wood. They can create a rustic or industrial vibe and are often used in feature walls and outdoor spaces. Evaluate each finish based on the room's style and practical needs.

Considering Tile Patterns and Layouts

Patterns and layouts offer creative opportunities to personalize your tile design. Classic patterns like chevron and basketweave can add dynamic movement to floors and walls. Experiment with different layouts to see how they influence the room's energy.

Randomized patterns introduce a playful element, with varied colors and shapes creating a mosaic effect. They can be a stunning choice for accent areas where you want to draw attention.

Grout color is another important aspect of tile patterns. Contrasting grout can emphasize the tile shape and layout, while matching grout provides a seamless look. Test different combinations to see which enhances your design vision.

Assessing Practical Considerations

Practicality is key when selecting tiles for functional areas. Consider slip resistance for bathroom and kitchen floors, where wet surfaces are common. Look for tiles with a high slip resistance rating to ensure safety.

Stain resistance is crucial for countertops and backsplashes. Porcelain and glazed tiles offer excellent protection against spills and stains, making them low-maintenance options.

Consider the ease of cleaning and maintenance as well. Some natural stones require regular sealing to prevent damage, while ceramic and porcelain tiles are generally easy to maintain. Choose a tile that fits your lifestyle and maintenance preferences.

Budget Considerations

Budget is an essential factor in any home improvement project. Set a realistic budget that includes not just the cost of tiles but also installation and any additional materials such as grout and adhesive.

Compare prices across different suppliers and consider purchasing a little extra material to accommodate cuts and potential future repairs. Prioritize quality and durability, as investing in high-quality tiles can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for replacements.

Consider the long-term value that well-chosen tiles can add to your home, both in terms of aesthetics and resale potential. Balancing budget with quality will ensure a satisfying and lasting result.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration for homeowners. Look for tiles made from recycled materials or those that are sustainably sourced. Many manufacturers now offer eco-friendly options that reduce environmental impact.

Consider the energy required for manufacturing and transportation as well. Locally sourced tiles may have a lower carbon footprint compared to those imported from overseas.

Recycling old tiles and opting for sustainable installation practices can also contribute to a greener renovation. Making environmentally conscious choices benefits both your home and the planet.

Engaging with Professional Tile Installers

Enlisting the help of professional tile installers ensures a high-quality finish. Experienced installers can offer valuable advice on material selection and layout design, leveraging their expertise to enhance your project.

Request quotes from multiple professionals to compare costs and services. Check references and reviews to ensure a track record of reliable and high-quality work.

Collaboration with professionals can also help you avoid common pitfalls, such as improper installation or measurement errors. Their skills and experience will contribute to a smooth and successful project.

Final Thoughts 

Choosing the perfect tile involves balancing aesthetics, functionality, and budget. By considering your space requirements, exploring various materials, and evaluating practical considerations, you can make an informed decision that enhances your home's value and beauty. For personalized guidance, consider consulting with professional tile installers like Better Floors to bring your vision to life seamlessly.

Dr. Carpet OC: Reliable Carpet Care for Every Need

We partnered with a home improvement company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

At Dr. Carpet OC, we understand that maintaining clean carpets is essential for a healthy and inviting home. Carpets play a significant role in the overall ambiance and comfort of your space, but they also tend to accumulate dirt, allergens, and stains over time. That’s where we come in. Our expert services are tailored to meet a wide range of cleaning needs, from delicate high-pile rugs to homes featuring both hardwood floors and carpets.

Carpet Cleaning with Minimal Drying Time

Time is precious, and the last thing you need is to wait for hours or even days for your carpets to dry after cleaning. Our advanced low-moisture cleaning techniques are specifically designed to minimize drying time. These methods not only ensure quick results but also help prevent the risk of mold and mildew that can arise from prolonged dampness. With Dr. Carpet OC, you can enjoy thoroughly cleaned carpets without disrupting your daily routine.

Best Carpet Cleaner for High-Pile Rugs

High-pile rugs are luxurious and cozy, but their thick fibers can trap dirt and dust, making them harder to clean. At Dr. Carpet OC, we use specialized equipment and gentle yet effective methods to penetrate deep into the fibers, removing hidden debris while preserving the rug’s texture and structure. Whether it’s a family heirloom or a modern statement piece, we treat your high-pile rugs with the utmost care.

Carpet Cleaning for Hardwood Floors and Carpets

Homes that feature both carpets and hardwood flooring require a delicate balance of cleaning techniques. Our dual cleaning services are designed to cater to these unique setups. We ensure that your carpets are thoroughly cleaned while protecting the finish and integrity of your hardwood floors. This comprehensive approach leaves your home looking spotless and well-maintained.

How Often Should You Clean Carpets with Pets?

If you’re a pet owner, you’re no stranger to fur, dander, and occasional accidents. Regular carpet cleaning is vital for maintaining a fresh and healthy home environment. We recommend professional cleaning every 6–12 months to effectively tackle pet-related messes. Our pet-friendly cleaning solutions are tough on stains and odors but gentle on your carpets, ensuring a safe environment for your furry friends.

DIY Carpet Cleaner Recipes for Tough Stains

While professional cleaning offers unmatched results, there are times when a quick DIY solution is needed. For spot cleaning tough stains, simple household ingredients like vinegar and baking soda can work wonders. These natural remedies can help manage minor spills until you schedule a professional service.

Creating the Perfect Home Office: Accessories to Boost Productivity and Style

Working from home has seamlessly integrated into our daily routines, making it crucial to design a workspace that is both functional and inspiring. A thoughtfully curated home office does more than serve as a place to complete tasks—it becomes a personal sanctuary for productivity, creativity, and comfort. 

With the right home accessories, you can transform your workspace into an area that boosts focus and reflects your unique style. Whether you're working full-time from home or tackling occasional projects, an optimized home office can set the stage for success.

Why a Home Office Makeover Matters

Your physical environment has a profound impact on your ability to concentrate and maintain a positive mindset. A chaotic or uninspiring workspace can drain your energy, leading to reduced productivity and a lack of motivation. Conversely, a carefully designed home office with intentional home accessories can rejuvenate your workflow and encourage creativity.

Benefits of a Home Office Makeover:

• Improved productivity: A well-organized space reduces distractions and increases focus.

• Enhanced mental well-being: A calming environment supports emotional balance.

• Personalization: A space that reflects your style boosts comfort and motivation.

Research consistently shows that a well-organized and aesthetically pleasing workspace improves not only performance but also overall well-being. The combination of functionality and visual appeal is key to creating a space where you can thrive.

Must-Have Home Accessories for a Productive Office

Elevate your work-from-home experience with these essential home accessories:

Ergonomic Chair and Desk

Your desk and chair are the foundation of your home office, and prioritizing comfort is essential when you’re seated for long periods. An ergonomic chair provides lumbar support, reduces strain on your body, and promotes healthy posture. Combine it with a height-adjustable desk to give yourself the flexibility to alternate between sitting and standing. This combination ensures a healthier and more productive work environment over the long term.

Pro tip: Look for chairs with adjustable height and armrests, and desks with cable management systems for a clean look.

Task Lighting

Proper lighting is vital for preventing eye strain and maintaining focus throughout the day. Opt for a desk lamp that offers adjustable brightness and a modern aesthetic. Natural daylight is ideal, but if that’s not an option, LED lamps with warm light settings can help replicate a soothing and productive atmosphere.

Benefits of good task lighting:

• Reduces eye strain during extended work hours.

• Enhances mood and focus with proper illumination.

• Adds an element of style to your workspace.

Storage Solutions

A cluttered desk can lead to a cluttered mind, so organizing your space is non-negotiable. Floating shelves, drawer organizers, and decorative storage boxes are excellent ways to maintain order. Filing cabinets can keep important documents out of sight but within easy reach, while baskets or bins can house miscellaneous items neatly. Incorporating stylish storage options ensures your workspace stays functional and visually appealing.

• For a streamlined look: Use matching storage boxes or baskets.

• Maximize vertical space: Add shelves above your desk.

• Hide small clutter: Use drawer dividers for pens, cables, and sticky notes.

Home Scent Diffuser

Scents can profoundly influence your mood and energy levels, making a home scent diffuser a must-have accessory. Fill your office with calming aromas such as lavender to reduce stress, or energizing scents like citrus or peppermint to stay alert and focused.

Why use a home scent diffuser?

• Creates a welcoming and calming atmosphere.

• Improves focus and mood during demanding work hours.

• Adds a decorative element to your office setup.

Stylish Stationery and Organizers

Functional doesn’t mean boring. Elevate your desk with premium notebooks, sleek pens, and organizers that complement your workspace aesthetic. Desk trays, pen holders, and file stands in cohesive colors or materials can add polish while keeping essential tools at your fingertips.

Adding a Personal Touch to Your Office

Your office should be more than just a place to work—it should reflect your personality and inspire creativity. Here are some ideas to make your workspace uniquely yours:

Greenery and Indoor Plants

Bringing nature indoors can do wonders for your workspace. Indoor plants such as succulents, peace lilies, or even a small potted fiddle-leaf fig can purify the air and create a soothing environment. If maintaining live plants feels daunting, opt for high-quality artificial ones that still add a splash of green without requiring care.

Benefits of greenery in your workspace:

• Purifies air and improves indoor air quality.

• Adds a natural, calming element to the room.

• Enhances the overall aesthetic of your office.

Art and Wall Décor

Surround yourself with visuals that inspire and uplift you. Whether it’s framed artwork, motivational quotes, or a personalized vision board, these pieces can serve as daily reminders of your goals and aspirations. Wall décor is a great way to add depth and personality to your workspace, ensuring it feels less sterile and more dynamic.

Suggestions for wall décor:

• Framed abstract art or photography.

• A corkboard with pinned goals or mood boards.

• Minimalist shelves displaying small collectibles.

Cozy Textiles

Layering textiles can make your home office feel warmer and more inviting. A soft area rug, a plush throw draped over your chair, or accent cushions can add texture and comfort. These cozy touches are especially appreciated during long workdays, giving you a sense of ease even while tackling challenging tasks.

Tips for Optimizing Your Home Office

Beyond aesthetics, the functionality of your home office is crucial. Follow these tips to make the most of your workspace:

• Declutter Daily: A tidy desk promotes clarity of thought and reduces unnecessary distractions.

• Manage Cables Effectively: Use cable organizers, clips, or trays to keep unsightly cords out of view.

• Incorporate Technology: Enhance your workflow with tools like noise-canceling headphones, wireless chargers, or an additional monitor.

• Designate Work Zones: If your office doubles as a multi-use space, create distinct zones for work, relaxation, and storage to maintain focus.

Elevate Your Office Style with Thoughtful Accessories

The ultimate home office balances utility with beauty, creating an environment that supports your goals while reflecting your personality. By incorporating home accessories such as ergonomic furniture, mood-enhancing scents, and personal touches, you can cultivate a workspace that inspires both productivity and enjoyment. Investing in items like a home scent diffuser, stylish storage solutions, or cozy textiles can transform even the most mundane workdays into a more enriching experience. Let your home office become a place where creativity and efficiency thrive hand in hand. With these ideas in mind, you’re well on your way to designing a workspace that not only serves your professional needs but also enriches your overall quality of life.