How to Refresh Your Home for Spring
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As the days start getting longer, there is no better time to bring your space back to life with a spring home refresh. You’re probably familiar with spring cleaning, but there are several other ways to update your space beyond scrubbing down every corner—and it doesn’t require a massive renovation or brand-new furniture either. In a few easy steps, you can refresh your home for spring and celebrate the brighter days ahead.
I do a home refresh about four times a year, right at the start of each season. It’s not only the perfect time to deep clean everything but also switch up my decor and textiles. This year, I’m moving to a new apartment, so I’ll wait to do most of my cleaning until then. But I’m so ready to pack away my heavy blankets and winter textiles!
How to Refresh Your Home for Spring
Start with a Spring Clean
Before diving into décor, it’s important to tidy up your space and start with a clean canvas. Kickstart your spring home refresh with a spring cleaning session using the checklist below. You can add extra tasks to this list for an even deeper cleaning, but these essentials will help you to quickly spruce up your space.
As you check off these cleaning and organizing tasks, take note of any areas of your home that might need some extra attention. Maybe your office is feeling a little dreary after the cold season or your kitchen deserves some revamping for spring. Keep these places in mind as you continue your spring home refresh.
Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Spring Cleaning Your Closet
Spring Cleaning Checklist
Kitchen
Empty sink and dishwasher
Clean dishwasher
Wipe down sink and clean drain
Wipe down countertops
Sharpen kitchen knives
Empty and wipe down fridge
Clean microwave
Clean stovetop and oven
Wipe down cabinets
Wipe down backsplash
Organize under the sink
Clean and sanitize trash cans
Sweep and mop floors
Bathroom
Wipe down mirror, countertop, and sink
Organize medicine cabinet
Wipe down cabinets and walls
Wash towels and bath mats
Wipe down baseboards
Vacuum and mop floors
Clean and sanitize trash cans
Clean shower and bathtub
Clean shower head
Dust light fixtures
Balcony
Sweep floors
Wipe down furniture
Clean doormat
Check on plants
Bedroom
Clean out and organize drawers
Switch out fall/winter clothes for spring/summer clothes
Clean closet floors and organize clothes
Flip mattress
Sprinkle baking soda on mattress and vacuum
Wash pillows and duvets
Wash curtains
Wipe down windows and blinds
Dust light fixtures
Dust furniture, decor, etc.
Vacuum floors
Living Room
Open windows
Dust light fixtures
Dust furniture, decor, etc.
Wash curtains, pillows, blankets, etc.
Wipe down windows and blinds
Wipe down coffee table
Vacuum floors
Laundry Room
Wipe down washer and dryer
Clean dryer trap
Wash inside of washer
Switch Up Your Scents
Once your space is tidy, swap out your winter candles for spring scents that will fragrance your home. Floral scents like iris, rose and jasmine are my go-to’s for spring, but equally as good are fresher notes like citrus, mandarin and bergamot.
Diptyque makes some of the most luxurious fragrances out there. This time of the year, I’m quite partial to their Lys candle, which smells like powdery lilies. Also try their Gardenia candle (so fragrant and floral) on your coffee table or add one of their luxurious reed diffusers in your entryway.
Tomato has been a popular scent the past few seasons, and for good reason—it’s fresh, vegetal, and perfect if you’re not a fan of fruity florals. To try out this vegetal scent in your space, consider these options from Malin+Goetz and Carrière Frères. Below you can shop more of my recommendations for spring.
Incorporate Some Color
I usually prefer neutrals in my home during winter (camel and cream hues are my favorites), but spring is the perfect time to introduce some color. For your spring home refresh, try a floral duvet, a colorful throw pillow, or a bold art print to effortlessly brighten up your home. It doesn’t have to break the bank either. Candles, flowers, and coffee table books are more simple, affordable ways to add subtle pops of color throughout your space. Pastels are my preference for spring—especially blush pink and baby blue!
Opt for Lighter Fabrics
From heavy duvet covers to bulky knit throws, it’s time to store those thick textiles and replace them with cotton or linen. Whether you go for a pop of color or stick to crisp whites and neutrals, lighter fabrics will instantly make a space feel fresh and airy—just what many of us crave after a long, cold winter!
Don’t forget to switch up your window treatments too. Dark drapes and shades can make a room feel heavy, so instead, try linen curtains. My favorite are these white linen-blend curtains from H&M. They’ll let more light into your home, especially as sunnier days arrive. And while you're at it, consider refreshing your towels and rugs with lighter, more breathable options.
I also like to bring out breezy loungewear. Out goes my thick cotton bathrobe, and in comes my satin robe, which feels so much better in the warmer months. Same goes for slippers and pajamas!
Read More: How to Look Elegant at Home
Add a Basket
A woven basket is one of the easiest (and chicest) spring home decor ideas. Not only do they add a natural, airy texture to your home, but they’re also incredibly functional. Use larger baskets to store blankets and towels, and opt for smaller ones to arrange your keys, stationery, or books.
I personally use a large woven basket to organize my exercise equipment like my yoga mat, exercise bands and light hand weights. It’s stylish and accessible but keeps anything less-than-aesthetic out of sight. You’ll always find a good use for a simple basket.
Rethink Holiday Decor
Although everyone has their own tastes, I tend to skip holiday-themed decor during my spring home refresh. As fun as it can be, I find that seasonal pieces only last a few weeks before I have to take them down.
If you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day or Easter, consider passing on the holiday decor, and focus on timeless updates that will feel fresh all season long.
Of course, if you love decorating for the holidays—go for it! But don’t feel pressured to overhaul your entire space for every event on the calendar. A few thoughtful touches can keep things festive and effortlessly chic.
Go for Greenery
Bring the outdoors in with fresh plants and flowers this spring. Indoor plants are proven to boost our happiness, reduce stress and even remove toxins from the air, so why not invest in some greenery for your home? Try an aloe vera plant, a bird’s nest fern and other easy-to-care-for plants for spring.
Of course, spring is all about flowers, so be sure to pick up a brightly colored bouquet from your local florist or grocery store. It doesn’t have to be expensive either. Tulips, one of my spring favorites, are usually around $5 for a small bouquet. For the price of a coffee, I get a little luxury that brightens my space (and my mood). Trader Joe’s is another great spot for budget-friendly florals!
Planters and vases are just as important as the flora they hold, so have some stylish options on hand.
Read More: 47 Affordable Luxuries to Elevate Your Daily Routine
Spruce Up Your Outdoor Space
If you dream of dining al fresco or sipping your morning coffee outdoors, don’t forget to give your patio or balcony a spring refresh. Colorful cushions, pots and string lights can instantly make your outdoor space feel more inviting. And if you have the room (and a bit of a green thumb), why not start a spring garden? Potted herbs, flowers and succulents can all liven up your environment. Trust me, as the weather warms up, you’ll be so glad you curated a little outdoor retreat.
My current apartment doesn’t have a balcony, but I am planning to freshen up my doorstep. I recently found this fun “Bonjour” doormat from Anthropologie that’s so cheery for spring and summer!
Freshen Up Your Kitchen
Spring is one of my favorite seasons to cook. Asparagus, carrots, rhubarb and strawberries—all of the best ingredients (in my opinion!) are finally in season. To get my kitchen ready for all the meals to come, I like to do a little refresh.
I start by swapping out dark table linens for fresh, spring-ready options. Brightly colored tablecloths, placemats, and napkins instantly make my dining space feel more cheerful. If you prefer to keep things neutral, that works too! Soft whites, creams and earthy tones can bring a refreshing seasonal touch with a more timeless feel.
Play around with patterns to add more interest to your kitchen too. Floral dinnerware, printed tea towels, or striped napkins all make for an effortlessly stylish update.
Each season I treat myself to a new cookbook to get inspired. This spring, Chez Manon: Simple Recipes from a French Home Kitchen is at the top of my wishlist—it has over 80 delicious recipes from French cook and baker, Manon Lagrève. French foodies should definitely check this one out. I’m also eyeing A Plant-Based Farmhouse Cookbook, which is full of plant-based recipes like fresh salads and hearty bowls, perfect for springtime!
Read More: How to Equip Your Kitchen Like a French Chef
With just a few thoughtful changes, you can easily prepare your home for spring. Whether it’s swapping out cozy winter layers for light, airy textures, adding fresh blooms, or trying a soft and seasonal color palette, these simple updates will instantly breathe new life into your space. Most importantly, make it feel fresh and inviting. I hope these spring cleaning and décor ideas will inspire you for the new season ahead!
How do you refresh your home for spring? Let me know in the comments below.
