The holiday season is a joyous time filled with family gatherings, parties, and celebrations. However, it can also be incredibly stressful trying to get your home ready to host and entertain. From cleaning to decorating, there is so much to do to get your house ready for the holidays. One important but often overlooked part of holiday home prep is taking care of any necessary upgrades or repairs.
Taking the time to fix and improve things around your house before the holidays can make a huge difference in how smoothly and successfully the season goes. According to a survey by HomeAdvisor, 73% of homeowners plan to complete home improvement projects before hosting holiday celebrations. With guests coming and going, you want your home to be safe, comfortable, and functional. Additionally, the right upgrades can help make your home more energy efficient, stylish, and modern.
In this article, we will look at eight of the best things to upgrade or repair in your house before the holiday hustle and bustle hits.
Inspect and Repair Appliances
After months of constant usage, appliances can start to break down or function less efficiently. Before your oven is loaded down with roasting pans and your refrigerator is packed with party platters, be sure to inspect and repair any appliances that need attention.
Check that the oven heats properly and cooks evenly. Make sure the stove burners ignite quickly, and the oven door seals tightly. Additionally, take time to inspect the dryer since you’ll be drying out many clothes, especially if people are staying over. Make sure you check the thermal fuse since the dryer won’t function at all if the thermal fuse malfunctions. Replacing a malfunctioning thermal fuse can restore your dryer’s efficiency, saving time and worry as you prepare for the holiday celebrations.
Also, ensure the refrigerator runs quietly and keeps items cold without fluctuating temperatures. The dishwasher should wash and dry dishes thoroughly without leaving spots. Replace any faulty parts and clean appliances thoroughly to have them in prime condition for the holidays.
Update Lighting
The right lighting can make your home feel warmer, brighter, and more festive for the holidays. Updating lighting is an easy way to upgrade your home’s ambiance. Replace any burnt-out lightbulbs both inside and outside your home. Consider switching exterior lighting to LED for more illumination with less energy use. Install new light fixtures to add style and interest to your rooms. Place battery-operated candles in windows for a welcoming glow. Ensure you have enough lighting in entertaining areas and pathways to accommodate guests safely. With the right lighting upgrades, your home will sparkle and shine for the holidays.
Improve Air Quality
Indoor air quality is important year round but especially when you have guests in your home. Dust, pet dander, smoke, and other pollutants can circulate and cause issues for those with allergies or asthma. Replacing old HVAC air filters, running air purifiers, and deep cleaning carpets can help capture allergens and freshen indoor air. Consider getting an HVAC tune-up to ensure the system works properly for optimal air circulation and ventilation. Opening windows regularly also improves air quality. With cleaner indoor air, your holiday guests will be more comfortable in your home.
Improve Curb Appeal
You’d want your home’s exterior to look warm, welcoming, and picture-perfect for the holidays. Focus on small upgrades that can make a big visual impact from the curb. Wash windows, power wash siding, and sweep walkways to get your home looking clean and tidy. Add a fresh coat of paint to your front door for an instant facelift. Install new house numbers and outdoor lighting. Plant some cheerful poinsettias, wreaths, or evergreen sprigs around your entryway. A well-maintained, festive exterior will have your home looking magazine worthy for holiday hosting.
Update Kitchen Storage
The kitchen is the heart of the home during the holidays, so make sure this space is optimized for all your cooking, baking, and entertaining needs. Upgrade old cabinets with new hardware and a fresh coat of paint for a budget makeover. Add pull-out shelves, lazy susans, and other storage solutions to maximize cabinet space. Under cabinet lighting illuminates countertops beautifully. Consider adding an island or cart to provide more counter space and storage.
Improve Home Security
With the hustle and bustle of guests coming and going, it’s important to ensure your home is secure during the busy holiday season. Upgrade locks on doors and windows so you can rest assured your home is protected. Install a video doorbell system to see who is at your door, even when you’re busy cooking. Strategically place motion sensor lights around the exterior to deter prowlers and illuminate walkways for guests. Consider a monitored home security system to monitor for threats and emergencies. This way, you can relax and enjoy the holidays knowing your home is safe and secure.
Update Bathrooms
Bathrooms are perhaps the most frequently used rooms, especially when friends and family come over during the holidays. Make sure your bathrooms are upgraded with functional fixtures and stylish finishes to provide a pleasant experience. Replace faulty faucets, showerheads, and toilets with water-efficient models. Update lighting and mirrors for better visibility. Add storage baskets and hooks for guest towels and toiletries. Apply a fresh coat of paint or a new wallpaper for an instant transformation. Set out guest soaps, candles, and other homey touches to make the space more inviting. Clean bathrooms thoroughly and address any lingering odors or mildew issues. With updated, sparkling bathrooms, your guests will feel right at home.
Upgrade Home Electronics
Holidays are a time for watching festive movies and enjoying music. Make sure your home electronics are holiday ready with some upgrades. Mount your TV or projector and test equipment to eliminate viewing issues when the family gathers to watch holiday classics. Upgrade audio equipment like speakers to fill your home with immersive holiday music and carols. Ensure WiFi routers are working optimally to support all devices and allow for streaming holiday shows. Set up charging stations so guests can easily charge phones and other devices while visiting.
Conclusion
The holiday season brings many joys as well as many demands on your home. Taking time to upgrade and repair key areas of your house before the holidays hit ensures you can truly relax and enjoy this special time of year. With appliances inspected, air quality improved, bathrooms updated, and decorations displayed, your home will be ready to accommodate and welcome all your guests. Don’t let an outdated, dysfunctional home add stress to your holidays. Make upgrades and repairs now so you can focus on what’s most important – celebrating with family and friends.
