As we move through the year, our homes may feel (at times) cluttered and uninspiring. This usually means it’s time to reset and refresh. But a home reset is about more than just cleaning. It’s about creating an environment that supports your wellbeing, improves functionality and reflects your lifestyle.

What does it mean to reset your house?

It’s a process of decluttering, reorganising and rejuvenating your living space. A home reset includes removing unnecessary items, creating a sense of order and enhancing the overall atmosphere of your home. It’s worth doing a home reset after Christmas, if you’re preparing to move house or when you need to uplift your mood and destress after a hectic time.

The overall goal is to transform your house into a more functional, aesthetically pleasing and relaxing and environment. A home reset can be incorporated monthly or weekly (a ‘Sunday Reset’ has become a hugely popular trend on social media). Meanwhile, shorter ‘speed cleans’ are recommended for busier lifestyles.

A complete house reset includes decluttering both physical and digital spaces and creating a sense of calm through décor and design features. Make it fun with personalised playlists and scented candles or incorporate it into a self care routine.

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How to do a home reset?

Resetting your home is a multi-step process that involves decluttering and deep cleaning. An optional third step could be to redecorate or renovate. Alternatively, you could simply refresh your home décor or restyle your space with a new look.

First, you’ll need to declutter by identifying and removing unnecessary items. This might involve sorting through belongings, donating unwanted items and discarding broken or outdated items. Make sure you research how to dispose of things responsibly and find places (or people) you can donate to before you get going.

Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful. William Morris

Next, a deep clean is essential. This includes a thorough dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and cleaning of key areas. Don’t forget to wipe down and dust internal doors, woodwork, windows and mirrors for flawless finish.

Afterwards, put your remaining belongings back. Ensure everything has a place and maximise space with smooth storage solutions. Think: sliding doors for a sleeker look or pocket doors for a ‘hidden’ closet. Pair white internal doors with white walls to streamline your space.

Finally, you could redecorate. Rearrange furniture or introduce new colours or textures. Optimise functionality by installing new doors that are durable and low maintenance or improve kerb appeal with a new front door that showcases your property at its best. Use patio doors to improve airflow and access to natural light for a fresher, cleaner feel.

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Home Reset Checklist
Declutter Room by Room

Bedroom	– Go through clothes and donate/discard anything not worn in the past year – Purge drawers and nightstands of unused items – Declutter under-bed storage
Living Room	– Donate or discard books, magazines and DVDs you no longer use. – Declutter & dust entertainment centres and shelves – Find storage solutions for remotes, cables and other practical items
Kitchen	– Toss expired food and recycle unused appliances – Declutter pantry and cabinets – Clean out the refrigerator and freezer – Research where you can donate unused food locally
Bathroom	– Toss expired toiletries and recycle empty containers – Declutter under-sink cabinets – Clean out the medicine cabinet
Key areas	– Declutter entryways and utility rooms (shoes, coats, bags, pet items) – Go through storage areas (attic, basement, loft, garage) – Declutter digital spaces (computer files, emails, photos)

Cleaning Reset Checklist
How to get started

General cleaning	– Dust all surfaces thoroughly – Mop hard floors and hoover carpets – Wipe down door handles and light switches – Wipe or dust skirting boards
Kitchen	– Clean the dishwasher, oven and microwave – Scrub sinks and countertops – Clean cupboards, fridge and freezer
Bathroom	– Scrub the shower/tub – Clean the toilet – Wipe down sinks and countertops
Key areas	– Clean light fixtures – Wash curtains and blinds – Clean dryer and washing machine – Clean doors, windows and mirrors – Wipe glass patio doors – Freshen up textiles and upholstery

Quick House Reset Tips

Smart Storage
Opt for furniture that doubles up as hidden storage and curate stylish open shelving. Make use of interior doors with frosted glass and slimline bifold doors for a minimalist feel.

Start Small
Don’t tackle the entire house at once. Begin with a small area, like a drawer or a shelf. Alternatively, focus on an important area such as your wardrobe or kitchen.

The “Keep, Donate, Discard” Method
Categorise items into of three piles. Keep bags or boxes in your car boot or discreetly by the door so you can declutter and drop off as you go.

Don’t forget the details
When dusting or cleaning pay attention to corners, under furniture and behind appliances. Find ways to reduce ‘visual clutter’ and be mindful of bringing new items into your home.

Be Completely Honest
If you haven’t used something in a year, it’s likely time to let it go. Use the Marie Kondo Method; if an item doesn’t ‘spark joy’ maybe you don’t really need it?

Maintaining a Home Reset Long Term

The key is to establish a simple cleaning routine that’s easy to maintain and works around your lifestyle. Schedule short decluttering sessions regularly to prevent clutter from accumulating. Designate a quiet corner for reflection or create a small desk area for planning and journaling. This is a great way to keep things on track throughout the year.

Also, ensure your home is a pleasant and comforting place to be. This can sometimes be easier said than done when there’s lots going on. However, doing things such as limiting screen time or using glazed doors to boost natural light can make all the difference to your mood.

Another tip is to incorporate natural elements (floral displays, oak doors, houseplants) for a relaxing ambiance. This is because studies show nature helps us feel calmer. Include all five senses with aromatherapy oils, cosy textiles and patio doors that let in fresh breeze, sunshine and views of the natural world.

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New Doors: The Ultimate Home Reset Essential

A home reset is an ongoing process, not a one-time event.

Carve out time to properly complete all the steps and think about redesigning your home to reflect your lifestyle. Doors are an essential component to this. The right internal doors maximise space and hide clutter while patio doors improve the flow between your home and garden. It’s all about that easy living feel.

Ultimately, a home reset is worthwhile because it benefits both the aesthetic and functionality of your space; ensuring it feels like a sanctuary where you can relax and recharge.

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