4 ways to refresh your home

Simmering a mixture including lemons and vinegar helps purify the atmosphere. Photo by Getty Images/iStockphoto

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There are certain times when a home feels like it has been through it. After a renovation, say, when tradespeople have trudged in and out, rooms have been reconfigured and old components have been removed. Or maybe it’s after you’ve hosted guests. Or at this time of year in general, when the dark, messy winter gives way to spring.

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At times like these, homes can benefit from a reset. Not just some cleaning and decluttering — although they both go a long way. We’re talking about a refresh that not only makes you feel good in your space but boosts your physical well-being.

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Here are some ways to bring on the good vibes.

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1. Open your windows. Fill your home with fresh air and get rid of any stagnant, stale air that might be lingering. Maybe also run an air purifier — one with a HEPA filter will get rid of allergens such as pollen, dust mites and pet dander.

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Think of it as “house burping”, the practice of opening your windows for 10 to 15 minutes every day to let fresh air in. It took over TikTok this past January but is based on the German tradition of “lüften” (meaning “to air out” or “ventilate”).

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2. Remove unpleasant odours with baking soda. This time-worn trick works to neutralize strong odours in places such as the garbage bin, carpets and soft furnishings.

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“For instance, on vaccumable surfaces like carpets, rugs, and mattresses, you can sprinkle baking soda and let sit for up to an hour then simply vacuum it up,” says MarthaStewart.com. “For enclosed spaces like a refrigerator or closet, you can keep baking soda in a vented jar and allow to sit, refreshing the powder every month or so.”

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3. Add scent strategically. Once you have a blank scent slate, so to speak, use room sprays that are formulated to restore the environment as well as your mood. The Vancouver-based company Saje offers several. Consider Airoma Loo (a blend of eucalyptus, peppermint and sage to refresh), Yoga (patchouli, orange and neroli to help ground you), or Liquid Sunshine (grapefruit, bergamot and lime to uplift).

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You can also make your own spray. The Prairie Homestead website offers this combination for its invigorating Citrus Mint Air Freshener Spray: start with 3/4 cup water and add two tablespoons of vodka, rubbing alcohol, or real vanilla extract. Finish with 10 drops of wild orange essential oil and eight drops peppermint essential oil.

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4. Purify in the kitchen. The kitchen is often the heart of the home, so it makes sense to take special care in refreshing it. “Fill your biggest pot with water and add generous slices of lemon, fresh rosemary sprigs (which have natural purifying properties), and a splash of white vinegar,” says ElleDecor.com.

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“Bring this to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, allowing the steam to purify the air … As the mixture simmers, imagine the steam carrying away old energy and infusing your kitchen with fresh, nurturing energy.”

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