Is it possible to transform your clean home into a haven? If you’re looking for a cozy, clean home, that is my 100% my goal. Let’s go for that ‘cozy clean’ vibe, shall we?

When I received this email last week asking this question, I jumped at the chance to chat about all things homey and cozy – it’s the perfect time of the year!

Creating a homey and cozy atmosphere after cleaning involves a combination of aesthetic choices and sensory experiences. If you’ve been doing the Clean Mama Routine and are seeing clean and clear surfaces and cleaning is taking you less time, you are ready to add that cozy, homey layer. It can feel difficult to start to add things back after you’ve worked so hard and decluttered and taken things away, but I want to encourage you to add things back in that you love and use and my personal add it back in rule: if it makes me happy when I walk past it. This can be a framed picture, a sweet vignette, a favorite keepsake.

Here are some tips to help you achieve that warm, “finished” feel in your home:

  • Soft Lighting: Replace harsh white bulbs with warm, soft light. Use lamps, dimmers, and candles to create a relaxing and inviting ambiance. I love battery operated candles on timers – they flicker in our home nightly from about 5-10pm.

  • Textiles and Throws: Add texture and warmth with soft blankets, plush rugs, and decorative pillows. These not only look inviting but also make spaces more comfortable. 

  • Plant Life: Incorporate indoor plants for a fresh, vibrant feel. They purify the air and add a touch of nature, which can be very calming. We have a mix of real and a couple strategically placed small artificial plants – I love that pop of green on a bookshelf or in a corner.

  • Personal Touches: Display personal items like family photos, artwork, or souvenirs that have sentimental value. These items make your space uniquely yours.
  • Scent: Introduce a signature scent through candles, diffusers, or incense. Scents like lavender, vanilla, or sandalwood can be very soothing and make your home feel more inviting.
  • Natural Elements: Incorporate natural materials like wood, stone, or bamboo. These elements bring an earthy, grounding presence to your space.
  • Organized Spaces: Ensure everything has its place. Use baskets, decorative boxes, and shelves to keep your space tidy and organized.

  • Color Palette: Choose a color scheme that reflects warmth and comfort. Soft, neutral colors or warm tones can create a cozy atmosphere. I love whites and creams with touches of color – I switch out the colors seasonally.
  • Layered Lighting: Use a combination of overhead, task, and accent lighting to create depth and warmth in your rooms.

  • Books and Magazines: Displaying books or magazines can add a lived-in, cozy feel. A well-styled bookshelf or a few coffee table books can be very inviting.
  • Music and Sound: Soft background music or the sound of a water feature can add a calming and homey atmosphere to your space.
  • Seasonal Decorations: Update your decor with the seasons. Adding seasonal touches like throw pillows, wreaths, or table decorations can refresh your space and make it feel current.

Remember, the key to a cozy, “homey” feel is creating a space that reflects your personal style and comforts. It’s about making your home a place where you feel relaxed and happy.