Winter wears a house down, so use these handy tips to get yours ready for the warmer months!
If you live in the South like I do, things are officially heating up, y'all! Get a head start as spring begins to warm up!
Before the heat gets unbearable, I like to make the most of the time and knock a few jobs off my summer home maintenance list. These tasks prepare your house for the season, make your space more comfortable, and leave you free to enjoy those long, lazy summer days.
Ideas for Summer Home Upkeep
I'll confess that it wasn't until a few years ago that I really began preparing my house for summer. I've noticed that when I work through these tips, our energy bills drop and the house feels much more comfortable. Here's my summer maintenance checklist. Think of it as a bucket list for your home, if you like!
1. Reverse the ceiling fan direction.
Did you know a ceiling fan should spin in a different direction in summer than in winter? It makes a huge difference if you haven't tried it yet!
In summer, a ceiling fan should always turn counterclockwise. Stand directly beneath it while it runs, look up, and watch which way the blades move. You should feel a cool breeze from the air being pushed down. If the blades are turning clockwise, look for a switch on the fan body that reverses them.
LIGHTING Suggestion
Top Picks for Ceiling Fans
Yes, ceiling fans can look sleek and modern! Don't leave the choice until the last minute and let function be the only thing that matters. Look for the right fan for your bedroom, living room, dining room, or even your porch to give each space a lift.
2. Wipe down the ceiling fan blades.
While you're checking the fan's summer direction, you may as well dust the blades too. Stand on a step stool or ladder, slide an old pillowcase over each blade, and pull it off to trap the dust.
3. Schedule an air conditioner tune-up.
Can you picture your air conditioning giving out on the hottest day of the year? It happens all the time!
When an air conditioner isn't maintained properly, it can easily overload and shut down. That's why having my A/C serviced is always at the top of my summer home list.
4. Swap in new curtains.
This might sound like a purely decorative task, but that's only part of the story. In summer, blackout curtains help keep rooms cool and take some strain off your air conditioner, which is a real win in hot climates.
There are plenty of lovely blackout curtains today (browse a few of my go-to picks here). If you'd rather not change your curtains, bamboo shades are another option. Choose ones with a liner so they block light like mine do. Without one, they're nearly see-through.
Our bamboo shades are more than just pretty. They block winter chill and keep the morning sun from heating up our kitchen. I'm so glad we chose them!
Find out how to pick the best bamboo shades here.
5. Change your bedding.
Swapping blankets and sheets with the seasons is another easy way to get your house ready for summer. When the weather warms up, pack away the heavy, thick covers and reach for lighter ones.
Where to Find the Bedroom Pieces: Bamboo Blinds in Jute Wheat | Coastal Abstract Art | Ivory Linen Curtains | Brass Curtain Rods | Curtain Rod Finials | Brass Curtain Rings | Favorite Cotton Sheets | Classic Ivory Pick Stick Quilt & Matching Euro Shams | Steel Blue Linen Duvet Cover & Standard Shams | Lumbar Pillow | Table Clock | 9 x 12 Area Rug | Bed Frame | Lamp | Nightstand | Favorite Mattress | Wall Color: Revere Pewter
6. Clear out the dryer vent.
Not many chores are less exciting than vacuuming out a dryer vent, but it needs cleaning at least once a year, since lint buildup is one of the leading causes of house fires. If you do a lot of laundry, plan on cleaning it two to four times a year. It isn't as intimidating as it sounds, though it does involve several steps, so check your manufacturer's guidelines for details.
7. Look over the exterior for gaps.
When it hits 100+ degrees outside, you're not the only one who'll be miserable. Squirrels, chipmunks, birds, bugs (ew), and mice (eeeeeek!!) will all be feeling the heat too.
A loose weatherstrip or a gap in your siding lets cool air escape, pushes up your electric bill, and sends an open invitation to unwanted visitors. No, thank you!
Check the weatherstripping along exterior doors and around windows at least twice a year. I like to keep it simple and do it once in winter and once in summer.
8. Clean your outdoor furniture.
If you haven't started using them yet, now's the time to clean your outdoor chairs, tables, sofas, and pillows so they're ready to go.
While you're at it, give the patio a good scrub too. I move all the furniture off and hose everything down with our pressure washer. It blasts away the pollen, dirt, and grime and leaves everything sparkling!
At our old house, one year, I cleaned our back patio and painted its concrete floor. It made a big difference, and we spent every summer evening out there!
9. Add Some Summer Decor
What's the point of all this summer prep if you don't get to decorate afterward? I'm a big believer in dressing your space for each season, and summer is no exception!
A few simple swaps and some fresh accents can make your home look summer-ready in no time. It's one of my favorite seasons to decorate! Grab my free summer printable for a quick refresh right here!
Browse 25+ Summer Mantel Decor Ideas HERE!
DECOR Tips
Top Summer Decorating Ideas
Here are my favorite summer decorating ideas to freshen up your home for the hot months! From art and throws to wreaths and tabletop decor, I've got you covered!
10. Enjoy Some Summer Fun
Of course you want your home ready for summer, but there's so much more to enjoy this season, especially with kids. I love spending summers with my girls and make the most of every one. In fact, I've put together a summer bucket list of our favorite activities.
Since everyone has different interests, I also made a free printable summer bucket list so you can fill in your own favorites! Download the free printable summer bucket list right here.
So that's my must-do list for getting your home ready for summer. Do you have any tips to add? I'm always looking for new ideas for my list!
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