How to Make Your Home Cozier and More Relaxing

As the days become shorter and the temperature drops, chances are you’re going to spend way more time in your home soon. Why not make it a space that inspires a sense of relaxation and coziness? Explore this indoor air-quality-friendly guide to make your home more comfortable and inviting for the fall.

Introduce warm, natural scents

Create a welcoming and relaxing space with the help of seasonal scents. Opt for DIY options like adding cinnamon sticks and orange peels to a pot of simmering water.

Add rugs and floor mats

Cooler temperatures can make hardwood and laminate floors feel chilly under your feet, so add a rug or mat to bathrooms and bedrooms. Just be sure to remove shoes before walking on them and vacuum regularly to prevent dust and grime buildup.

Switch out pillow covers and slipcovers

Swap out bright, summer-colored pillows on your sofa and bed for warmer, fall-colored pillows to create a cozy, seasonal vibe in your home. Make sure to thoroughly wash fabric items to get rid of any dust that accumulated while in storage.

Use a humidifier

Cool outdoor air can dry out the air inside your home. Using a humidifier in dry spaces can help you and your family feel warmer and prevent static.

Layer in throw blankets

As temperatures get colder, nothing feels better than snuggling under a blanket. Add a few in the living room and on your bed between the sheets and duvet for an extra layer of warmth.

Utilize the fireplace

Wood-burning fireplaces may look welcoming and cozy, but they can also release smoke and ash into your home’s air. Instead, opt for an electric fireplace for a safer and more eco-friendly way to stay warm.

Bring in greenery

Plants are a bright, relaxing addition to your home and also boost indoor air quality. Whether you’re adding seasonal foliage or maintaining a beloved plant, greenery helps eliminate pollutants in the air while adding a little peace to your space.

Set your thermostat strategically

Keeping a warm home rarely requires cranking up the thermostat. Find a temperature that’s both comfortable for you and doesn’t waste energy. Turn your thermostat down a few degrees from where it was set in the summer, and continue to slowly lower it until you settle on an acceptable temperature.

Insulate properly

Increasing insulation may not visually make your home cozier, but it will feel warmer as the days get chillier. This doesn’t have to mean opening up a wall. Start with sealing doors, windows and recessed lighting.