It’s time to get out of hibernation and ring in the spring. And what better way to start a new season than with a spot of home improvement!
Whatever your budget, we’ve got partner retailers like Wilko, B&Q, Homebase, Debenhams, Wyevale Garden Centres and many more on board for all your cleaning and DIY essentials. What’s more, getting equipped will earn you cashback, whether you’re buying in-store or online.
Fortunately, giving your house a fresh look doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg – or even much effort. Gone are the days when, like poor Mole at the start of The Wind in the Willows, it was all hard work, no play: “First with brooms, then with dusters; then on ladders and steps and chairs, with a brush and a pail of whitewash; till he had dust in his throat and eyes, and splashes of whitewash all over his black fur, and an aching back and weary arms.”
No, far better to follow these quick tips for an altogether happier home improvement experience…
1) Upcycle
‘Make do and mend,’ our mothers always told us. It’s a great philosophy to apply to furniture and other household objects which are in need of a modern makeover. Don’t splurge on a new shelving unit or cough up for a kitchen table when the one you have can, with a spot of TLC, scrub up quite nicely instead. A fresh lick of paint is usually all it takes to transform old, tatty pieces into something quite sensational. Bold, bright colours will bring them bang up-to-date, or else channel vintage chic with an understated chalk paint. B&Q has a great range of well-priced furniture paint to choose from.
2) Wall stickers and decals
B&Q, as well as high street favourite Argos, both have good deals on wall stickers. Rather than spending a whole week re-papering or painting those daunting living room walls, simply slap on a sophisticated piece of sticky-backed art. From city silhouettes to more abstract designs, wall stickers are a great way to make a feature of an otherwise-plain surface. They work a treat in kids’ rooms too.
3) Throws and cushions
Missed out on the New Year sofa sales? No problem. Breathe new life into old sofas and arm chairs with a throw and a clutch of cushions instead. Interesting textures and contrasting colours will not only draw the eye away from what’s underneath – and be pretty darn comfy too. Go for throws if you want to cover over the entire seat – great for snuggling under as well, until the spring weather truly arrives.
4) Plants
The weather’s warming up but it’s probably still too chilly for alfresco afternoons just yet. So why not bring the outside in by filling your window ledges with potted plants and kitchen garden herbs? As well as infusing your living space with colour, lightly scented flowers can also appeal to other senses too..
5) Throw away clutter
If you don’t use it most days, it doesn’t need to be on display, does it? Time to sort out the pile of paperwork building up on the coffee table, or tackle the toiletries gathering dust in the bathroom. Clear, uncluttered surfaces not only look neater, they’re also easier to keep clean and can make your rooms look bigger too. If you can’t bear to throw it away, keep it tidy with better storage solutions. Argos and ASDA have some great ideas, from under-bed boxes to attractive wicker baskets.
Inspired? Here’s wishing you a sensational spring clean!