Smart Ways to Prep for More Indoor Time

December 22, 2020
Written by:
Guest Author
Holidays, Homeschool Planning, Parenting

Guest post by Heidi Rosenberg

Staying indoors has been a common phrase this year, a.k.a. quarantine. We all have had our fair share of time at home, so much so, that we are craving the outdoors. The good thing is that the world is opening up and now people can move freely in some areas. However, as much as we wouldn’t want to think about it, winter is finally here. So, the truth is we’re really not done staying indoors yet.

Sure, it can feel daunting, and maybe even a little depressing. Yet, with adequate preparations, the winter stretch indoors doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In fact, your home can be a welcoming and inviting oasis even in the midst of a cold winter. Want to know how?

 

  1. Stock up on essentials

With the cold weather setting in, stepping out to the grocery store can feel like such a difficult task. You can save yourself from frequent visits by stocking your house with essential items. COVID-19 is still roaming and there is a need to keep surfaces clean and disinfected at all times. Ensure that you have stocked up on cleaning products. In addition, check your pantry for the items that you need to stock up. Think of items such as cooking oil, salt, spices, and dry foods.

 

  1. Warm up the home

It is winter, and so the need to keep the house warm is evident. Start by switching your beddings for softer and warmer choices. Throw a soft rug on the side of the bed to avoid hitting a cold floor when you wake up. Don’t forget to add some throw pillows and cozy blankets in the living room to enhance the warmth in there. In addition, check the condition of your heating system to ensure that it is in good working condition. If you’ve been thinking of home automation devices to integrate into your home, getting a digital thermostat might be something to consider. The good thing about it is that you can control it remotely through your smartphone even when you’re outside the house. This mechanism allows you to adjust the temperature remotely and is substantially more energy-efficient.

 

  1. Bring in some plants

Staying indoors can really put a toll on our moods and spirits. A good way to counter this is by adding plants in the house. Being around greenery is known to calm the mind and make us happy. Getting a few of them can do this miracle on top of improving aesthetics. Besides, the weather can be harsh for your potted plants outdoors; you might need to consider bringing them indoors.

If you are worried about them getting enough light, you can always provide the light with LED grow lights. You can be sure that the technology used can be able to provide all the light requirements for your plants. However, it is good to make sure that you are buying them from a reliable supplier.

 

  1. Deep clean

Cleaning can be the last task to think of when the weather is chilly. However, since you are spending more time indoors, it is only fair that you stay in a place that is sparkling clean. Consider doing a deep clean of the house. This way, you can do just a little cleaning for a few months. The oven and the fireplace are some of the areas that will probably be most used in this season. Give them a good wipe down in preparation for prolonged use. Don’t forget the rest of the house especially the commonly forgotten such as the top of the cupboards and shelves and the attic.

 

  1. Remove clutter

As you deep clean the house, it is the perfect time to declutter your home. Too much clutter around the home can have a negative effect on your mind and moods. Audit every room for items that are rarely used. Think furniture, clothes, wall hangings, extra food and the like. If you are holding on to something for sentimental value but you never use it, just let it go. Prepare the items for donation or resale. In addition, check for broken items that need replacing or repair and invest in that.

 

  1. Infuse some sweet scents

As you cozy up under a blanket on the couch or on the bed, it is only right that you enjoy the relaxing effects of fragrant smells. Get some scented candles to set a relaxing mood around the home and to transform your space into a cozy abode.

Spending time indoors isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. But, when there is nothing you can do about it, you have no choice but to think of ways to be comfortable as much as possible. Finding ways to add comfort and warmth goes a long way toward everyone enjoying the time indoors.

This article was contributed by Heidi Rosenberg.

#ACTIVITIES FOR HOMESCHOOLERS, #HOMESCHOOLING, #PARENTING