tips Archives - Gigi's Ramblings

Sometimes, the smallest changes can make the biggest difference in your home. You don’t need a complete overhaul to give your space a fresh look. Small updates can breathe new life into your living space, making it feel new and inviting. Here are some simple ideas to refresh your home decor and achieve a big impact without a major renovation.

1. Rearrange Your Furniture

One of the easiest ways to refresh a room is to rearrange the furniture. Try moving your sofa to a different wall or reorienting your bed for a fresh perspective. This can make the space feel brand new without spending a dime. Plus, it gives you a chance to clean those hard-to-reach areas!

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2. Add Some Greenery

Plants can instantly brighten a room and improve air quality. Whether it’s a tall fiddle leaf fig in the corner or a collection of succulents on the windowsill, adding greenery can make your space feel more alive and welcoming. If you’re worried about maintaining them, opt for low-maintenance plants like snake plants or pothos.

3. Switch Out Throw Pillows

Throw pillows are like jewelry for your furniture. Swap out your old pillows for new ones in trendy colors or patterns. You can even change them seasonally to keep your decor feeling fresh year-round. This is a simple and affordable way to update your living room or bedroom.

4. Update Your Lighting

Lighting can dramatically change the mood of a room. Consider swapping out old light fixtures for something more modern or adding a new floor lamp to a dark corner. Even changing your light bulbs to a softer or warmer hue can make your home feel cozier.

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5. Refresh Your Walls

Walls have a huge impact on how a room feels. You don’t have to paint all four walls; even a single accent wall can make a statement. Alternatively, try removable wallpaper for a fun and temporary update. Wall art can also transform a space—consider creating a gallery wall or hanging a large statement piece.

6. Change Your Window Treatments

New curtains or blinds can completely alter the look of a room. Light, airy curtains can make a room feel bigger and brighter, while heavier drapes add warmth and coziness. If you prefer something minimal, simple shades or blinds can offer a clean, modern look.

7. Layer Your Rugs

Layering rugs is a popular trend that adds depth and texture to your floors. Try placing a smaller, patterned rug on top of a larger, neutral one. This can bring a cozy, lived-in feel to your space while allowing you to play with different colors and textures.

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8. Update Your Bedding

Changing your bedding is a quick way to refresh your bedroom. Choose a new duvet cover or add a few decorative pillows to change the entire look of your bed. Opt for seasonal colors or patterns to keep things interesting throughout the year.

9. Create a Cozy Nook

Carve out a little space in your home for relaxation. This could be a reading corner with a comfortable chair and a small side table or a cozy spot by the window with cushions and throws. Personalize it with your favorite books or a small plant to make it inviting.

10. Declutter and Organize

Sometimes, the best way to refresh your home is to declutter. Getting rid of items you no longer need or love can make your space feel more open and serene. Invest in some stylish storage solutions like baskets or decorative boxes to keep things tidy while adding a touch of decor.

11. Upgrade Your Hardware

Small details like cabinet handles and drawer pulls can make a big difference. Swapping out old hardware for something new and modern can give your kitchen or bathroom a quick facelift. This is an inexpensive update that can have a surprisingly large impact.

12. Incorporate Mirrors

Mirrors can make a room feel larger and brighter by reflecting light. Try adding a large mirror above your sofa or in your entryway. Not only are they functional, but they also serve as decorative elements that enhance the aesthetic of your space.

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13. Use Scent to Set the Mood

Don’t underestimate the power of scent in your home. Candles, diffusers, or wax melts can create a welcoming atmosphere. Choose scents that match the season or your personal preferences to make your home feel cozy and inviting.

14. Play with Textures

Mixing different textures can add depth and interest to your decor. Combine soft throws with knitted pillows, or add a velvet chair to a room with wooden furniture. This creates a layered, sophisticated look that feels intentional and stylish.

15. Rotate Your Decor

Sometimes, all it takes is a little rotation. Swap out decor items from one room to another to give each space a new look. This is a fun and cost-effective way to refresh your home without purchasing anything new.

Wrapping Up

Refreshing your home decor doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. By making a few small changes, you can create a big impact and fall in love with your space all over again. Whether it’s rearranging furniture, adding some greenery, or updating your bedding, these simple updates can make your home feel fresh, stylish, and uniquely yours. Give some of these ideas a try and see how transformative small changes can be!

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

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Indoor plants can be a lifesaver during the dreary winter months. They add life, color, and a touch of nature to any room. But keeping them happy during winter isn’t always easy. Over the years, I’ve learned a few lessons—often the hard way—about keeping indoor plants alive and thriving when the temperatures drop. Here are my tips to help you avoid my mistakes.

Adjust Your Watering Routine

One of the first things I learned was that plants need less water in winter. Many go semi-dormant and don’t grow as quickly as they do in summer. Overwatering during this time can lead to root rot—a mistake I’ve made more than once.

Check the soil moisture before watering. If the top inch feels dry, it’s time to water. Use room-temperature water, as cold water can shock the roots. And always make sure your pots have drainage holes to prevent soggy soil.

Provide Enough Light

Shorter days and weaker sunlight can make winter tough on plants. Some of my leafy friends began losing leaves before I realized they weren’t getting enough light.

If possible, move your plants closer to windows to maximize sunlight. South- or west-facing windows work best. For darker rooms, consider a grow light. They’re a game-changer for plants that need consistent light to thrive.

Maintain Humidity Levels

Winter air tends to be dry, especially with heaters running. Many plants, like ferns and palms, love humidity, so dry air can stress them out.

To fix this, I started grouping plants together, as they create a mini humid environment. A pebble tray with water underneath the pot can also help. Adding a small humidifier near your plants is another great option.

Keep an Eye on Temperature

Temperature fluctuations are another winter hazard. Drafty windows, doors, and heaters can create uneven temperatures that stress plants. I’ve learned to keep plants away from cold drafts and not too close to heat sources. Most plants prefer temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees.

Dust Your Plant Leaves

Dust accumulates on plant leaves, especially in winter. This layer can block sunlight and reduce photosynthesis, which is crucial for your plant’s health.

I now wipe my plant leaves gently with a damp cloth every couple of weeks. For delicate plants, a quick rinse in the shower works wonders.

Repotting Can Wait

Winter isn’t the best time to repot plants. Most are in a dormant phase and won’t appreciate the disturbance. Unless it’s an emergency—like root rot—wait until spring when the growing season begins.

Fertilizer: Less Is More

I’ve also learned to cut back on fertilizer during winter. Overfeeding plants during their dormant period can do more harm than good. Feed your plants sparingly or not at all until spring.

Monitor for Pests

Winter can bring pest problems. Dry air and stressed plants create the perfect environment for spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Regularly inspect your plants’ leaves, stems, and soil. If you spot pests, treat them immediately with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Rotate Your Plants

Plants grow toward the light, which can cause them to lean awkwardly during winter. Rotating your plants every week or two helps them grow evenly. This simple habit has made a big difference in my plants’ appearance.

Know Your Plant’s Needs

Every plant is unique. What works for one might not work for another. I’ve learned to research each plant’s specific winter needs. For example, succulents and cacti thrive in bright light and need very little water. Meanwhile, tropical plants like pothos and monstera prefer more humidity and moderate light.

Final Thoughts

Caring for indoor plants during winter takes a little extra effort, but it’s worth it. By adjusting your routine and paying close attention to your plant’s needs, you can help them thrive all year long. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a newbie, I hope these tips save you from the hard lessons I’ve learned.

Your plants will thank you with lush leaves and vibrant growth when spring rolls around!

Home Decor Refresh: Small Changes for a Big Impact