We love choices! Sweet or spicy? Beach or mountains? Cats or dogs? Vacation or staycation? But if you’ve ever had the looping “I don’t know, what do you want for dinner?” conversation, then you know decision fatigue. While not being able to agree on a meal is frustrating, decision fatigue is an even bigger issue during major projects like a home remodel or build. Don’t be paralyzed by all the choices or the pressure of making the right decision. Instead, use these tips for avoiding decision fatigue during home improvement.

What is decision fatigue?

By the end of the day, when it’s time to pick a restaurant, your brain is just tired of making decisions – picking what to wear, figuring out who’s taking the kids to their after-school playdate, solving endless pop-up problems at work, selecting centerpieces for the upcoming charity event. Now your mom wants to know if you can help with the landscaping this weekend, birthday presents need to be bought … and the choice between Chinese takeout and pizza is Just. Too. Hard. You have decision fatigue.

 

Researchers estimate we make over 35,000 decisions per day. When something out of the ordinary happens or our routine is broken, like when we’re renovating, we need to make even more choices. This can cause a series of micro stresses, according to psychologists, and those stresses compound to cause frustration, despair and feelings of being overwhelmed, AKA decision fatigue.

Decision fatigue during renovations

When you aren’t prepared for how many decisions you need to make when remodeling or building a home, decision fatigue can sneak up on you. If you’re building a new home:

 

• Do you want an open floorplan or closed? How much privacy do you need?
  
  
• How many power outlets do you want in a particular room? Should they have USB ports? Should they be smart outlets?
  
  
• What kind of flooring do you want? Should you choose a hard flooring in the common areas but carpeting in the bedrooms? What about the stair treads? The garage flooring?
  
  
• What kind of door hardware do you need? Should it be locking or non-locking? And for that matter, what kind of doors do you want? What should they be made of? What color should they be painted? Do you want windows in your front door, sidelights, both or neither? What about French doors, Dutch doors or hollow core doors?
  
  
• What size tiles should you use for the kitchen backsplash? What color tiles? What color grout? Should the backsplash be just behind the sink or all the way along the countertop? What about behind the range?
  
  
• Should you replace the cabinets or refinish the ones you already have? What color should you paint the cabinets? Do you want to paint them all the same color or go for a two-tone look? What about the hardware?
   

And we didn’t even mention plumbing and lighting fixtures, countertop materials or appliances. Before you know it, you’re wondering why you thought the project was a good idea in the first place and you’re considering calling it quits. You’re telling your contractor, “Just do what you think is best,” even on things you felt strongly about a week ago. You’re arguing with your partner, not just about the renovation but why they let the kids wear those socks to school! You’re asking strangers in the grocery store to make a choice for you. We’re sorry, but not only do they not know which cereal you should buy, but they really can’t tell you if your bedroom should be painted Caribbean Cool or Mexicali Turquoise.

 

Never fear, though. You can avoid decision fatigue. And if it creeps in eventually, you can beat it. Here’s how.

How to avoid decision fatigue while renovating

• Make a plan and stick to it. Before you start to remodel or build, be very clear with yourself and any pros you’re working with about what you like and the scope of the project. Then, when you have to choose between a concrete or a marble countertop, you can say, “Marble isn’t in our budget,” and the decision is made. When your partner starts talking about how awesome it would be to install subwoofers in the ceiling, you can call up your plan and remind them that you intend to transition the space to an in-law suite, not a home theater. Write down your plans and budget, create a mood board, do whatever it takes to keep the plan top of mind.
  
  
• Keep options to a minimum. It’s much easier to decide between two or three types of wallpaper than 10. If needed, trust your contractor or designer to narrow it down for you and then you make the final call from the paired down list. If that’s not possible, make the decision yourself in steps. Eliminate in stages, kind of like teams being knocked out from a tournament bracket. If you like A better than B, then it doesn’t matter whether B is better than C. It’s already been eliminated.
  
  
• Remember that most decisions can be changed later. If you decide a year from now that you’d rather have a brown wall than a blue one, it’s easy to repaint. Even seemingly permanent choices such as flooring can be improved by adding throw rugs or refinishing. In other words, don’t put unnecessary pressure on yourself to get it “right” the first time. Heidi Zack, co-founder of ThirdLove, wrote in Inc.com that focusing on the weight of her business decisions made those choices harder. Instead, she framed them as opportunities, with all the optimism that implies, rather than a decision between right and wrong. You can use the same strategy for your home improvement projects.
  
  
• Pick function over fashion. Remember that you have to live in your home, not just admire it from afar. Mood lighting in the bathroom might give it a calming spa vibe, but if you can’t see well enough to shave or do your makeup, you’ll be replacing the light fixtures sooner than you wanted. To help with this, Carrie Cotton Design recommends spending time truly and honestly thinking about how you want to use the space. Only once you’ve determined how it will work for your lifestyle can you start looking at Pinterest.
  
  You can also look for functional pieces that don’t compromise on style or at least that find a balance between the two. Door handles are ADA compliant and ideal for people who have trouble with grip or fine motor skills. Those same levers can also meet your design needs when they come in a variety of styles and finishes.
  
  
• Go with your first impression. Optimise Home calls it trusting your gut. Studies have shown that when we fret over a decision and try to think logically, we are often less satisfied with our decision than if we’d gone with our first reaction.
  
  
• Don’t rush. Similar to trusting your gut, remember to take your time. You don’t want to delay your project unnecessarily, but if you plan well, you’ll be able to spread out your decisions over stages and avoid the compounding effect of decision fatigue.
  
  
• Relax. I know this is dangerous advice. You never tell an angry loved one to just calm down. But when it comes to decision and renovation fatigue, Sarah at Paper Room Interiors suggests taking a break when you can. If it’s possible to step away for a weekend – mentally or physically – do it. It also could be as simple as meeting a friend for a drink, getting out of the house and away from the renovation dust, or breathing some fresh air at the park.
  
  
• Trust the experts. How you define this is up to you. It could be an industry expert – your contractor or interior designer. It could be someone who’s an expert on you – a family member or long-time friend. Surround yourself with people who know their stuff and who are also good decisionmakers. They’ll be able to help you make the best choice for you.
  
  

Sometimes the heavy lifting – product testing and research – has already been done for you by those experts. Schlage door hardware is constructed from premium materials for both style and security. It’s also been tested to the highest industry standards and is certified highest in Durability, Security and Finish by the BHMA. That means that when it comes to choosing between a trusted brand and someone else, there’s not much of a decision after all.

4. You want to go smart

Smart locks are a great way to add security as well as convenience. Maybe you just love to be on the cutting edge of innovation. With Schlage smart locks, you get the security and craftsmanship you expect from all of our deadbolts, plus integrations with your other favorite smart home devices. The Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt, for example, works with Ring Video Doorbell so you can see who’s at your door and unlock it as needed, all from a single app. If you’re an Apple HomeKit® user, you might want the Schlage Sense® Smart Deadbolt. Or if you’re partial to Samsung SmartThings, try the Schlage Connect® Smart Deadbolt. You can see the full list of integration partners at Schlage.com.

 

Regardless of the smart lock you choose, when it’s connected to your home network, you get remote access from anywhere. That’s peace of mind in the palm of your hand.

You can also check out our interactive Product Selector at Schlage.com where we’ll walk you a series of questions so you can easily identify the right product and style for you.

 

Gardening to boost your curb appeal for the entire year can be challenging. Few plants will survive the heat of summer and the chill of winter. One way to keep your home looking nice no matter the season is to plant window boxes. Their smaller size makes it easier and less expensive to swap out the flowers according to the weather and even upcoming holidays. Use the tips below for planting the perfect window box at any time of year and check out some of our favorite window box ideas that will have your home looking as gorgeous in December as it did in April.

 

Tips for a successful window box

 

• Pack in the plants. The fuller your window box, the better it will look. Choose plants of varying heights and remember the formula: thriller, filler, spiller. Choose one or two varieties that will really make a splash with color, vibrancy or size. This is your showstopper or thriller. Then choose another to fill in the gaps – your filler. And finally, your spiller is a draping plant to add drama and dimension.
  
  
• Choose plant colors that complement your home’s exterior, including the outside walls and shutters. You can opt for a variety of flowers for high visual interest or go monochromatic, which can be especially beautiful in the colder months.
  
  
• Metal and plastic window boxes tend to be low- to no-maintenance. However, you’ll want to treat wooden boxes with a sealant to protect them against moisture.
  
  
• Window boxes are more exposed to the elements than plants on the ground. That means, among other things, that the soil tends to dry out more quickly. Add an organic material such as sphagnum moss to help the soil retain moisture. Water your window boxes daily and add liquid fertilizer weekly once the plants are established.

What to plant in spring window boxes

Just as you would with any other area of your garden, you’ll need to switch out the plants as the seasons change. In the spring, try succulents such as kalanchoe and pencil cactus. These and some other varieties can be started in the fall as houseplants and then transplanted to your box in the spring.

 

Springtime is also perfect for adding loads of color. Daffodils do well in window boxes as long as the container is deep enough to accommodate their roots. Petunias, tulips, begonias and asparagus fern are other popular options.

 

In addition to plants, look for some fun accessories such as Easter eggs or a decorative birdhouse to welcome the warmer weather with a bit of whimsy.

 

What to plant in summer window boxes

Summer window boxes might be your chance to go a bit tropical. Plants like yellow hibiscus should weather the heat and keep their color well. Also consider petunias and geranium. English ivy and sweet potato vine are good options for your spiller. For some height, look to non-flowering plants like purple dracaena and snake plant.

 

You typically see fewer window box accessories in the summer so that your plants can really do the talking. But if you’re looking for a little something extra, try American flags around the Fourth of July. This will be especially eye-catching if you go with a red, white and blue theme with your flowers, too.

 

What to plant in fall window boxes

The key to a successful fall window box is choosing varieties that will stand up to colder nights. Flowering cabbage and kale are good filler plants. Celosia, also known as cockscombs, add a nice punch of color as do ornamental peppers, mums and marigolds. Purple fountain grass offers some height without blocking your windows too much, which can get annoying as the days get shorter. Maybe choose trailing ivy as your spiller.

 

Fall might be our favorite time for window box accessories. Small pumpkins and gourds leave no doubt as to what season it is. Pine cones are a nice complement to live plants in the fall and carry over into the winter. Plaid bows like you’ll see below are a nice soft touch as well.

 

What to plant in winter window boxes

Don’t pack everything up just because it’s winter. Plan ahead to get your plants in the boxes before the coldest weather sets in. You need them to take root before the extreme temperatures move in for good. HGTV also recommends that you choose plants that are rated for at least one or two zones colder than where you live to help make sure they survive the winter.

 

Popular plants for winter window boxes include dwarf evergreens such as junipers, arborvitae and boxwoods. In many regions, creeping lantana is an excellent spiller choice.

 

Accessorize with berry branches, which add some color during the coldest months. String lights like you might use at Christmastime are also a nice detail, especially during the long winter nights.

 

Container gardening is a can’t-miss strategy for boosting your curb appeal at any time of year. Find more tips and tricks and the Schlage blog, including how to grow your own fruit and vegetables in containers.

 

Do you have a true entryway or is it just an open expanse where shoes collect? Especially if you have an open floorplan, it’s possible that the only thing eye-catching about your foyer is piles of clutter. Rather than showing off your personal style, it just kind of runs over into your living space. And, because there are no definite boundaries, painting and decorating becomes tricky. The good news is that creating a clearly defined entryway doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Try these feature wall hacks to make walking in the door feel like coming home to a haven.

Why you need an accent wall in your entryway

• My front door opens immediately into my living room and no matter how many hooks and mirrors I hang or console tables I try, the space still looks unfinished.
  
  
• I want to paint, but my open floorplan means that if I start in the entryway, I’d also have to paint the living room and then up the steps and then into the upstairs hallway … there’d be no end.
  
  
• I want to try a new color or pattern, but I’m intimidated by the boldness.
  
  
• I found a wallpaper I love, but I’m on a budget and can’t afford to use it in an entire room.

 

If any of those sound like you, then an accent wall could be exactly what you need to take your entryway décor to the next level. An accent wall can help create the illusion of a separate space, tricking the mind into thinking you’ve entered a new zone, even when the walls haven’t changed.

 

And because most entryways are relatively small spaces, they can be the perfect opportunity to try different décor you might not attempt elsewhere in the house. Bold patterns and bright colors can be used in moderation, making them feel less overwhelming. Plus, the smaller space means you’ll likely spend less money on materials, letting you save up or splurge in other areas.

 

Accent wall ideas that wow with wallpaper

Wallpaper is much more user-friendly than it used to be, which explains its recent resurgence. With more temporary and peel-and-stick options, there’s also less pressure to get it perfect the first time around. And that’s great to hear with all those amazing designs to choose from.

Geometric patterns in bright blue make a strong statement in this entryway by Murphy Deesign. Somewhat surprisingly, despite the pattern, the space isn’t what most would call “busy.” Thanks to the clean white doors and console table and complementary blues in the mirror and umbrella stand, the overall look stays streamlined.

 

Meg at Baker Blooms has a hard time saying no to a mural wall, but we picked this wallpapered entryway as a reminder that even second entrances – side doors, back doors, one off of a garage – can be beautiful and functional. Coordinating the colors in the wallpaper with the green in the door goes a long way toward keeping a cohesive, intentional style.

This foyer shown on House Beautiful is a great example of how a small space can be the perfect opportunity for a splash of the unusual. The wallpaper, artwork and pillows designate this as an official entryway instead of a nook with a random bench. We can imagine coming home to the bright, fun colors each day.

Even soft patterns can make a difference in your entryway. Krystin Lee’s greige trellis wallpaper provides some visual interest while complementing the traditional style of the home. The understated neutral plays well with the color of the tile flooring and matches the overall décor.

Pleasing paint for accent walls

If your entryway gets lots of natural light, this could be prime location for one of the darker, moodier colors you’ve been meaning to try. Remember, it’s all about balance. Choose a dark accent when you have lighter surrounding walls and bright, airy décor. Or go with something unexpected – coral or turquoise – if everything else is neutral.

Sherwin-Williams paired its Majestic Purple with Natural Linen and Downy in this hallway. The golden pop from that mirror helps to keep the accent wall from feeling overbearing as well.

Still have a fear of commitment? That’s why Hawthorne and Main painted half of one wall in their entryway. Having been burned more than once by over-the-top colors in the past, they choose this green that’s almost a neutral and kept it extra interesting by adding the pattern above and pink table as décor. It might be safe, but it’s definitely also gorgeous.

 

Painted murals don’t need to be bright yellow to draw your attention. If you prefer a soft sage green or blush pink, use that. A sandy hue could also work. They’ll still pop – just in a more subtle way – against a white wall. The goal isn’t to smack your visitors in the face with your wall color, but to fool their subconscious into realizing, “I’m supposed to do something different here.”

 

Peony and Honey described this as an “awkward hallway wall” previously, but the soft arch is the perfect backdrop for some simple décor that adds definition to the space.

Find more entryway décor ideas at the Schlage blog. You’ll also find tips to make painting a snap, whether you’re updating doors and trims, walls or even ceilings and floors.

 

You want to make your home more energy efficient, but how? If solar panels, geothermal heating and passive houses are expensive and a bigger commitment than you want to make right now, the answer is lighting. With these lighting efficiency tips, you can upgrade your home easily to run more sustainably, save money and even make it safer.

How lighting makes your home safer

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: A home that looks occupied is safer from intruders than one that looks vacant. One of the best ways to make your home look lived in is by keeping it illuminated.

 

• Leave lights on or set them on a timer before you leave the house.
  
  
• Make sure your porch is well-lit. Dark corners make excellent hiding spots for intruders.
  
  
• Motion-activated lighting, especially outside near garage doors, gates or pools, can make intruders think they’ve been spotted, causing them to move out of the area.

 

It’s not just about security, though. Good lighting can also improve personal health and safety.

 

• Include lighting on walkways or near steps to reduce the risk of falls.
  
  
• Install strip lighting along hallways or on stair risers to illuminate a path to the bathroom or an exit.
  
  
• Use plug-in nightlights in children’s bedrooms or a bathroom. Any midnight trips will be safely illuminated without being temporarily blinded by turning on overhead lighting.
  
  
• Choose smart lights or plug a lamp into a smart outlet so you can connect them to a voice assistant. In the event of a fall or other emergency where you or a loved one are unable to reach the light, “Alexa, turn on bedside lamp” could be important.

How to live more sustainably with the right lighting

Of course, all this lighting takes energy. If you’re concerned about CO2 emissions and improving your home’s energy efficiency for cost and environmental savings, the idea of leaving lights on the entire time you’re on vacation probably doesn’t sound appealing. The good news is that you can use lighting for home security without overdrawing from the energy grid.

Choose the right bulbs

For most single-family homes, you have three light bulb options: incandescents, LED and CFL. If you’ve been doing your sustainability homework, you already know that outdated incandescent light bulbs are the biggest energy vampires of the three. A 60-watt incandescent bulb uses, well, 60 watts of energy. The CFL equivalent of the same bulb uses just 14 watts, and the LED equivalent a mere 8.5 watts. That’s a decrease of almost 86% in energy use.

 

LED and CFL bulbs have another advantage over incandescents: longer lifespan. According to Eartheasy, you would need an estimated 21 incandescent light bulbs for 25,000 hours of use (the equivalent of leaving the light on, non-stop, for almost three years). You can light your home for the same length of time using only 2.5 CFL bulbs and just 1 LED bulb. That translates to less trash in the landfill.

 

Even though these numbers give LEDs and CFLs the clear win in terms of sustainability, you might be asking about financial cost. It’s true that they’re more expensive up front. However, when you consider how much less energy they require and the lower frequency of replacement, you’ll likely still come out ahead. Eartheasy has a great breakdown of the costs and savings over time for various lightbulbs.

Control your lighting

Once you have the right bulbs, you can improve your energy efficiency even more with the right lighting controls. One option for making your lighting more energy efficient is to use dimmer switches. We often think of dimmers for setting mood lighting, reducing the brightness. But dimming the lights also means they’re using less energy. Install a dimmer for greater control, using only the amount of light – and energy – you need.

 

A second option is to use motion sensors with your lights. These are most common outside your home, near your doors or garage. Like we said at the beginning, this can deter intruders by making them think they’ve been spotted. And because they’ll only switch on when triggered, they aren’t using energy when not needed.

 

Finally, and we include this because we hear our dad’s voice in our inner mind, you can go the old-fashioned route and be more mindful of your own daily habits. Remember to turn lights off when you leave the room. Open the curtains or blinds and use natural lighting as much as possible. Install mirrors strategically so that they bounce light around the room and give the illusion of more brightness. And if you’re at your desk, work bench or reading in your favorite armchair, consider tabletop lighting that illuminates only what you need to see rather than the entire room.

Make lighting a part of your smart home

Much like adding extra controls to your lighting can reduce energy use, so can making your lights part of your smart home automation. Including lighting in your smart routines is kind of like putting them on one of those first-generation timer plugs only much more sophisticated. For example, if you have an Evening Routine, schedule your lamps to automatically switch off at a certain time. That way, you won’t be burning through energy even if you forgot to turn something off before going to bed.

 

Look for smart devices that work together to make this as seamless and simple as possible. With the Leviton Decora Smart^® Wi-Fi^® lighting control line, you can pair lighting with the Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt so that when you lock the door, the lights turn off at the same time. You can also set it up so that locking your Schlage Encode deadbolt activates Leviton’s Away Mode. The simple act of securing your door triggers your lighting to turn on and off randomly, making your home look occupied, until you return and put your system back in Home Mode.

When retrofitting your home for energy efficiency, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. How do you even get started if you want to make your home more sustainable? It’s best to take it in stages, changing minor habits you know you can maintain without major inconvenience and cost. Lighting is a great first step. When you’re ready for more, check out our tips for fixing drafty doors and other energy efficient DIYs.

 

Porch signs, message boards, door wreaths. There’s no better way to express yourself, add some holiday décor and be a little clever at the same time. Keep your message fresh with these DIY sign ideas for every season.

January: New Year, new sign

Simple is sometimes the way to go, especially in the midst of a busy holiday season. Glitter Inc.’s DIY farmhouse New Year’s Eve sign is just the ticket. The wood board can be anything – a piece of store-bought plywood, an upcycled cabinet door, part of a wood palette – and the numbers can be painted to your liking. Choose a color that complements the surrounding décor or glam it up with some glitter paint.

February: Fortune at your door

Paper cuttings pasted to doors and windows are a traditional way to celebrate Chinese New Year. The image in the cutting represents a different wish for the new year – a peach for longevity or a peony for honor and wealth, for example. These can be pretty detailed if you aren’t familiar with the art. An alternative could be a DIY banner. Hung at a home’s front door, they’re meant to greet your guests with a message of good luck and fortune. Keep it simple with red and gold paper, some ribbon for hanging and a steady hand for your calligraphy.

March: Welcome, Spring

A spring front porch sign that doubles as a planter? Yes, please. Giggles Galore gives us a guide for personalizing a wooden planter to hang in your entryway. We can’t think of a better way to welcome guests and the new season.

April: Signs of spring

Want to break a few décor rules? Then start by adopting a loose definition of “sign.” This DIY succulent frame from Balcony Garden Web hangs vertically on your wall, so we can’t think of a better way to say and show you’re celebrating Earth Day. We’re sure you’ll enjoy this indoor living wall year-round.

May: Eid Mubarak

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of a month of fasting for Ramadan. While the holiday typically includes prayers and a large meal with friends and family, décor that includes stars, twinkling lights, flowers and lanterns is common in some communities. Hello Holy Days shares its guide for making a garland of simple paper lanterns to include in your own celebrations.

June: Get growing

If you’re prepping for those late-summer vegetables to go in the ground, be sure you have garden markers. The Inspiration Board made simple signs that not only help you keep track of what’s planted where, but also to keep your vegetable garden looking chic.

July: First class Fourth of July décor

If you’ve fallen in love with macrame and the handicrafts that are so popular with Boho modern style, try this DIY wall hanging. Unlike macrame, you’ll need a loom (you can make your own), but the extra effort is worth it when you end up with this American flag-inspired weaving from The House That Lars Built.

August: Studied door décor

Your kids might or might not be looking forward to going back to school, but this sunny wreath from Infarrantly Creative is sure to brighten your front door. Your guests might not even realize it’s made from school supplies until they reach your porch. Hang it for your own front porch décor (and include it in those back-to-school photos) or gift it to your favorite teacher for their classroom.

September: Ready for fall

As the temperatures start to fall, you might be ready to get your front porch ready for fall. Decorate an exterior wall or your door with a DIY fall wreath like this one from Lia Griffith. We love the way she dressed up a store-bought twig wreath with felt leaves. It’s the balance between natural brown hues and splashes of color that does it for us. Choose colors that complement your front door color and other décor.

October: Trick or treat …

… Smell my feet! Mommy’s Bundle shows how to make a simple sign, using your child’s footprint to stamp out some friendly ghosts. This would be great for Baby’s first Halloween. We’d love to see some variations on this, too. Get everyone’s feet involved for a ghoulish family or use a pet-friendly paint for some puppy paw prints. They might not look as ghost-like, but we’re pretty sure they’ll be adorable.

November: Faux mantel, real style

If you don’t have a fireplace but love all that mantelpiece décor you find on Pinterest, a faux mantel like The Red Painted Cottage installed and decorated might be just what you need. Start by adding your favorite Thanksgiving- and fall-themed accessories. Then, when it comes time to hang stockings with care, you’ll be ahead of the game. Find more stylish ways to fake a mantelpiece.

December: Celebrate to the letter

We made it all the way to December without any letter board ideas. Don’t worry. Try one of these messages for your own Hanukkah celebration or if you’ve invited Jewish friends and family to your home for an inclusive holiday party. The Type Set Co. offers their message suggestions. We like “It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness” and, for something a little cheekier, “Did someone say latkes?”

No matter what you’re celebrating, Schlage has the ideas and the know-how to take your holiday décor to the next level. Find everything you need on our blog and Pinterest.

 

It’s almost time to turn another calendar page, which always makes us a little nostalgic. As we head into the new year, we thought we’d recap some of our favorite tips, tricks, hacks and inspiration from 2021.

1. 15 robots you’ll want to bring home in 2021

2. How to make your hollow core doors look expensive when you're on a budget.

3. 10 before-and-after porch remodels you have to see.

4. 13 tips to help you safely remodel your home during pregnancy

5. 10 home security lessons to teach your kids now

6. Improve your security for working remotely from home.

7. Beat electronic clutter with these 5 digital organization steps.

8. Green renovation ideas for an eco-friendly home.

9. Top tips for choosing indoor plants and keeping them alive

10. How to understand lever and door handing

Honorable mention

How to clean porch décor: When was the last time you washed that doormat?

 

Advice for buying your first home: Because buyer’s remorse hits a lot harder on a house you spent thousands on versus a $50 sweater.

 

Time travel: Vacation safety tips from 1953 that still work: A lot has changed in almost 70 years … but not as much as you might think.

 

How to set up a home bar for your best holiday hosting: A Joybird study found that a fully stocked bar is the top-ranked must-have for hosting a party, so are your ready?

 

This is just the tiniest of fractions of what we offered in 2021, hoping to provide you with the ideas and know-how for turning your home into a haven. Find the rest, from DIY projects to technology and security updates, at Schlage.com/blog.

 

Searching for unique holiday décor? Instead of rushing to the store hoping for that one-of-a-kind piece, try looking a little closer to home. Sometimes, using furniture or accessories you already own in completely different and unexpected ways is exactly what you need. Here are our favorite picks for unusual ways to use common household items for extra-special style and convenience this holiday season.

Rugs

Just about everyone has an area rug somewhere in their house. Putting one in your entryway to collect dirt and snow as guests come and go is an obvious choice. Don’t forget some of these options, too.

On the deck or porch

If you’re having an outdoor winter gathering, a rug can help keep everyone’s toes from getting too cold too quickly. A thick, durable outdoor rug provides a layer of insulation from the frosty ground. It also just helps to give your outdoor living space a more finished look, ideal when you’re celebrating something special this winter. We love this cozy look from Two Twenty One with a Christmas doormat layered over a neutral rug.

Over the headboard

Try this decorating hack in your own bedroom or the guest room for those overnight holiday visitors. A decorative rug draped over the headboard, especially if the headboard is on the plain side, can give a cozier vibe to the space. And, because you can choose a rug with holiday colors and patterns – whatever your tradition’s colors and patterns are – it’s an easy way to add some festive cheer without taking up a lot of space. That means it’s perfect for those small rooms where adding one more piece of décor makes the room feel cramped.

As a duvet cover

Instead of turning up the heat on a cold night, be more energy efficient by just throwing on an extra layer. A soft rug can double as a duvet cover or throw, whether on the bed or the couch. You’ll commonly see this with sheepskin rugs.

As wall art

Think of this as the more sophisticated version of draping tie-dye in your college dorm room. With the right design or weave, a rug can becomes tapestry, adding color and warmth to your walls. Depending on its size and thickness, the rug can also improve insulation for more warmth and sound dampening, a plus in our book when it comes to snuggling in on a cold winter’s night.

Instead of a tree skirt

Whether you’re just starting out and forming new holiday traditions with your family or you want something a little out of the ordinary, use a rug in place of a typical Christmas tree skirt. We especially love this idea if you go for a non-traditional tree, such as one decorated in pastel colors or with all vintage ornaments. Match the rug-skirt’s style to the colors and theme of your tree for a cohesive and unique look.

Mirrors

Hanging a mirror in narrow and small spaces like an entryway has always been one of our favorite décor hacks. It can make those rooms feel larger and airier than they really are. It’s no different if you’re using a mirror to amp up your holiday décor.

On your fireplace mantle

A mirror on the mantlepiece is a prime opportunity for making a room feel extra big and bright, just what you want when welcoming guests to your home for the holidays. A tall mirror can make the ceiling feel higher, while one that reflects the view from a window makes the room feel more expansive. We also think the mirror itself is perfect real estate for adding holiday decorations. Choose a frame with a shimmering finish, maybe even matching it to your silver menorah or the brass in a picture frame. Drape it with evergreen garland or those popcorn-and-cranberry strands you made with the kids.

Behind bright décor

Whether on your mantle, a side table or anywhere else in your home, a mirror placed behind holiday decorations adds depth to your display. A lantern with a candle or two is nice, but when it’s reflected many times over, the twinkle feels brighter and the shimmer more magical. If you create a miniature village Christmas scene, a mirror in the background makes a single street appear fuller, the same way a large wall mirror makes it look like there are more guests at your party. In this way, mirrors are the perfect holiday hack to make it look like you pulled off more than you did.

Over the buffet or bar

Speaking of holiday hosting hacks with mirrors, hang one over your buffet table or bar. This draws guests in by reflecting your scrumptious spread. The mirror can also help define the space when you’ve added a small bar to your living room, for example. The décor subconsciously tells people, “Top up your bubbly here.”

In the guest bedroom

If you have more people in your home than usual, you know that shuffling them in and out of the bathroom can cause some tension. Hang a mirror over the dresser or prop a full-length mirror in the guest room. That way, one guest can check finish their hair and makeup while another is in the shower. Everyone gets their privacy without the bottlenecks.

In the kitchen

A mirror in the kitchen might sound strange, but the key is placement. We spend a lot more time cooking during holiday times. A mirror behind the stove or over the sink in place of a backsplash can help you stay focused on your dishes and still be able to see friends and family gathering behind you. If you have a traditional, closed floorplan, you might also be able to hang a mirror so that you can keep an eye on the kiddos in the living room while you cook, without dashing back and forth.

Trays

Go ahead and load up a tray with pancakes and coffee for a special holiday breakfast in bed. But don’t forget these uses for a tray anywhere in the house.

As a mobile bar

We’re not talking about serving your guests from a tray like the waitress at a local restaurant. Instead, stock a tray with the treats and drink fixings guests will need to serve themselves. The benefits of putting this all on a tray is that it makes it easy for you to replenish as the night wears on. Take the whole tray to the kitchen to refill chip bowls or plates of hors d’oeuvres instead of doing a balancing act in front of everyone. Plus, if the party moves to another room – from the kitchen to the dining room, from the patio to back indoors to get warm – it’s no sweat to move your bar without missing the celebration.

As a centerpiece

It’s hard to go wrong with a nice flower arrangement for your tablescape, but if you’re looking for something a little less ordinary (and maybe shorter so you can see guests across the table), consider staging holiday décor in a shallow tray instead. It could be a collection of evergreen twigs and pine cones mixed with some red berries for color, or a miniature forest of bottle brush trees, for example. The tray helps corral décor so your display looks intentional and refined. And if you need to move it in a hurry to make room for the main dish, you won’t spend 10 minutes rearranging lots of little décor pieces.

In the kitchen

Countertops can get messy and cluttered, but a tray can help keep that under control. Use a tray to wrangle similar items like a few mugs, spoons and sugar for making coffee. If you have guests, it could be a tray loaded with granola bars and fruit so that they don’t feel like a burden asking for a snack. It could also be cleaning supplies – washcloths and soap – or cookbooks and décor.

In the bathroom

A small tray is a nice way to collect and arrange all those baubles you or your guests need throughout the day. Use it as the staging ground for jars of cotton balls and Q-tips, your soap dispenser, tissues or little bars of hand soap. It will help keep your countertops organized and clean, a good look whether it’s the holidays or just a Thursday.

In the entryway

Everyone needs a tray just inside their front door. Use a shallow tray – a bowl, basket or clay plate your kid made in art class also works, to be honest – to put your keys, phone charger, sunglasses, winter gloves and anything else you might need to grab when you leave the house again. You’ll be glad for this organizational hack when you aren’t still searching for your car keys 20 minutes after you were supposed to be at the kids’ holiday recital.

The holidays can be a hectic time, but with a bit of planning, they don’t have to be. Visit the Schlage blog for more ways to decorate when you’re in a hurry, tips on preparing the guestroom and commands to give Alexa that will make your holiday merry, bright and easier than ever.

 

The holiday season can get hectic. Don’t let important home improvement tasks slip through the cracks, though. They’ll not only keep your home feeling cozier through the cold, but you’ll likely have fewer repairs to make later on. Download and use this December home improvement checklist to help you stay on top of things.

Indoor home checklist

When the fire is so delightful, check these indoor jobs off your to-do list.

 Update emergency kits

If you’ve used anything in your first aid kit recently, replace it now. Check expiration dates while you’re at it. If losing power during a storm is a concern, also include a flashlight with extra batteries, a portable phone charger, bottled water and nonperishable food in your emergency kit. Since it’s December, spare blankets and warm clothing are good ideas, too. Assemble a kit for both your home and your car.

 

 Seal windows and doors

Drafts can ruin even the coziest mood. Try these tips for finding gaps in door and window frames and repair them to keep your home warm and your HVAC working efficiently.

 

 Improve insulation

Oftentimes, we think of insulation in the walls, which is important for warmth and sound control. Don’t forget your attic, basement and crawl spaces as well as some appliances. A water heater blanket can help reduce heat loss by around 25 percent, keeping your showers more comfortable, efficient and cost effective.

 

 Create an entryway for winter

When family and guests enter your home, do they have a place to put their coats, hats, gloves and boots? Update your entryway closet for quick and easy storage. Add a boot tray to protect your floors. If you don’t have a dedicated entryway, use these tips to fake a mudroom for winter.

 

 Refresh the guest room

Especially if you plan to have overnight visitors for the holidays, they’ll need someplace comfortable to relax. Provide fresh bedding and towels, make snacks and drinks easy to find so they don’t feel like a burden asking and supply extra goodies – toothbrushes, hygiene products, pillows – in case they forgot something. If you don’t have a guest room, try these ideas for converting an office space or hobby room into an oasis for visitors.

 

 Create a gift-wrapping station

It could be as simple as a basket with tape, scissors and ribbons. Or it could be as extravagant as a separate room with pull-out shelves full of rolls of paper and packing material. The point is to organize some space and storage that make it enjoyable to wrap gifts for loved ones instead of leaving you feeling like a scrambled mess.

Outdoor home checklist

We like to keep our outdoor to-list short in the winter, so stick to the most important.

 Remove snow and ice

It’s an ongoing battle for some of us, but it’s worth it so that we don’t slip and fall or suffer structural damage to our home. Keep driveways and walkways clear and maybe shovel a path for your mail carrier.

 

 Prevent ice damming

When ice builds up around your roof line, it can dam up the snow and cause leaks as everything melts. There are two ways to avoid that, assuming it’s safe for you to reach. First, using a roof or snow rake, remove the snow after each storm. Second, you can break up the ice dam itself to prevent the snow buildup in the first place.

 

 Install a home security camera

December is a great time to find these on sale, and with holiday deliveries tempting porch pirates, a bit of extra security will go a long way toward giving you greater peace of mind. You might try a Ring Video Doorbell, which can be connected to other security devices like the Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt, or choose a motion-activated camera on your garage, mailbox or side gate.

 

 Landscape based on your region

What you can pull off in your garden in December depends on where you live. Unless you’re pretty far south, this is the time to shore up landscaping to survive the freeze. You might lay mulch to protect the ground from the cold. If you need to protect plants from heavy snow and ice, build them a winter shrub shelter. Warmer climates should focus on fertilizing and composting, planting spring bulbs or even growing cool-weather crops like lettuce and peas.

 

 Decorate the front porch

Holiday curb appeal is kind of a big deal at Schlage. Nothing puts your or your guests in the festive mood like a beautiful holiday wreath for your front door or a light display. If you like low maintenance, focus on garden containers that let you easily switch out certain elements to transition with the season. Your favorite plants can go from fall with pumpkins to Christmas with sprigs of red berries to New Year with shimmery metallic accents.

For the future

A bit of forward thinking can help make future projects and tasks run more smoothly … and help you be less stressed.

 Have a holiday security plan

Holiday time is prime picking for thieves. Empty homes when people travel, valuable gifts under the tree and packages left unattended on the porch are all tempting to grinches. Use these tips to help keep your home safe and secure during holiday time.

 

 Prepare for the new year

If you’d like to host friends for a New Year’s bash, start planning that now. Get your guest list in order, test out some new cocktail or mocktail recipes, and stock up on supplies. If you’re heading out to celebrate, make your reservations early.

For the greater good

Lend a helping hand to someone in need or just make them smile.

 Celebrate green

The Environmental Protection Agency reports that Americans create 25 percent more household waste between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day than they do the rest of the year. Choose natural décor – live trees are actually better for the environment than artificial – use recycled materials for giftwrapping and control holiday lights with timers or smart plugs to put less stress on the electric grid. Check out these tips for a sustainable holiday season, too.

 

 Adopt a family

Many workplaces, churches and community centers can connect you with a family in need. “Adopt” them by gifting clothes, toys or school supplies to make their season as bright as yours.

In case you missed it

It’s easy to fall behind on home improvement tasks this time of year. It’s OK if you didn’t get everything crossed off your November home checklist. Here’s a reminder of some of the most important jobs.

 Secure railings, stairs and walkways

You want sure footing and a good handrail when the ground gets slick. Tighten screws, replace warped boards and level pavers.

 

 Conduct an energy audit

Was that last electric bill a bit of a shocker? Conduct an energy audit yourself or call in a professional to identify ways to save yourself and your home some energy. The solution might be simpler than you think.

Time to buy

You can find some great deals on home goods, electronics and other equipment in December thanks to the holidays. Here are some of the items Consumer Reports says are great buys in December.

Appliances:

Air fryers, blenders, coffee makers, cookware, food processors, microwaves, multi-cookers, toasters, humidifiers, vacuums, carpet cleaners, cordless drills, snowblowers, steam mops

 

Electronics:

Cameras, cell phones, computers, fitness trackers, home security cameras, printers, smart speakers, wireless speakers, smart watches, sound bars, tablets, televisions, thermostats

 

Fitness equipment:

Bike helmets, ellipticals, treadmills

We get it. It’s December and you’re feeling jolly. You want to celebrate, not just check the bathroom caulking. Visit the Schlage blog or find us on Pinterest for cold-weather outdoor activities to do with the family, holiday door décor inspiration and our favorite technology for making the home cozier than ever.

 

Every year has its popular gifts – 1985 was Carebears, 1996 saw Tickle Me Elmo fly off the shelves and in 2020, PS5s were the “It” gift. This year, because of global supply chain troubles, you might find getting presents more challenging. Don’t let frantic shopping ruin the holiday. Instead of stressing out and giving the special people in your life something you found at a gas station, try these last-minute gift ideas they’ll actually love.

Experiences they’ll always remember

The great thing about an experience as a last-minute gift is that you don’t have to give it to them right now. Do the planning now, maybe buy a gift card or a voucher, book a reservation if you can. But the activity itself? You can wait until the time is right.

MasterClass subscription

If your special someone has a curious mind and likes to learn, then a MasterClass pass is just what you need to order. The site offers classes led by experts in nearly any field – science and technology, food and cooking, art and writing, sports and business. The list goes on. With an annual subscription, they can jump from topic to topic as the mood strikes or when their favorite celebrity hosts a class. This is a gift that simply won’t get boring.

National Parks pass

Travel season is back, and people are being drawn more to wide-open spaces. If Mother Nature is calling your loved one, gift them a National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass. They’ll gain access to more than 2,000 recreation areas across the country, from natural wonders as well-known as the Grand Canyon to lesser-known gems like the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge (they have wild ponies). There are also access passes for seniors, individuals with disabilities and military.

Spa treatment

They deserve to be pampered and you want to skip the anxiety that can come with choosing the perfect gift. Get them a Spafinder gift card. But before you turn up your nose at the idea of just another gift card, think about the freedom this gives them. They can choose the treatment – mani/pedi, massage, mud wrap, one of those bizarre snail facials – and the spa location they want. This is perfect for anyone who needs a little rest and relaxation, especially if they’re a long-distance friend or family member and you can’t pick something up at their favorite salon.

DIY from the heart

Crafting homemade holiday gifts isn’t just for kiddos with no spending money. Creating something with your own hands can be a sign of how much you truly care – you put in the sweat and effort, after all. The key to getting this right is not actually waiting until the last minute. Give yourself time to learn a new skill or technique if you need and make it as perfect as something you might find in a store.

Homemade journal

Whether they’re taking a course on MasterClass or going on a travel adventure, they might want to take notes and journal. Skip the black-and-white composition book and DIY a notebook for them to collect all their thoughts. A Beautiful Mess has the step-by-step instructions for becoming an at-home bookbinder, but the design is totally customizable to your favorite writer. You might even go the extra step with a seed pencil from our sustainability gift guide.

Floating botanical art

Your nature-loving gift recipient will surely be a fan of this homemade artwork. It’s not especially labor intensive, but it does take time, so plan ahead. Collect leaves or flowers from your neighborhood you’d like to preserve. You could even take leaves from houseplants, which we think would be a thoughtful way of sharing a piece of your own home with a loved one. If you like more of the dried flower look, simply press your foliage between the leaves of a heavy book, lining the pages with tissue paper, until excess moisture is removed from the leaves. If you’d like to preserve the plants’ original colors, use hunker’s tip for soaking leaves in a glycerin and water solution before pressing. Once your leaves are ready – it could take a week or more – display them in floating frames.

Cucumber-mint sugar body scrub

Instead of the Spafinder card, or in addition to it so you don’t feel bad just handing them a light envelope, make your own self-care treatment. Eating Well shares a couple concoctions you can mix up at home, but we think this nourishing body scrub sounds fantastic, especially for the winter since it helps remove dry skin and can give your loved one a healthy holiday glow. As an added bonus, all the ingredients can be found at the grocery store.

The Schlage gift guides have even more ideas to help you find the perfect item for anyone in your life. We’ve added new sections for experiences and home entertainment. You’ll also find inspiration for technology lovers, gardeners, budding chefs, pet parents and more.

 

It seems the holidays start earlier every year. We can’t get enough of the festive feeling and we can’t wait to share the magic of the season with our favorite people. Start spreading the joy at your front porch with these tips to boost your curb appeal for the holidays.

Greenery for holiday porches

Your landscaping doesn’t have to go totally dormant just because it’s cold. Front porch holiday planters with winter-friendly greenery like boxwood and spruce trees can add a pop of color to your entryway. Mix in winter berry, tie a ribbon around the planter or add ornaments to the arrangement for even more vibrancy.

Garland is another great go-to and can be even simpler than that holiday planter. Hang it around your front door or windows or wrap it around porch posts. Whether for your garland or planter, consider also adding pinecones for a crisp, fresh smell.

Lights for long, festive nights

Glittering outdoor lights year-round have become more popular in the last few years, but they really shine (pun 100% intended) during the long winter nights. When deciding where and how to hang holiday lights, focus on your home’s architectural details. Line the roof, windows, an arch or porch overhang, even a winding walkway to highlight the everyday beauty your home already has. And don’t forget to brush up on these tips for designing the perfect holiday light show.

 

If climbing up in the eaves and scaling trees to hang lights isn’t your idea of a happy holiday, consider other options like luminaries to line your porch steps and complement the rest of your patio décor.

Windows for winter magic

Decorating your windows can create an ultra-traditional look for your holiday curb appeal. A single candle – choose LED for safety – in each window might be all the décor you need for a sophisticated street-side view. A wreath on each window, like Dixie Delights, is another classic choice.

Or you can be totally playful with holiday window decorations. Window clings that catch the light, maybe the Grinch peaking from around the casing, a winter scene with elves and polar bears for the kids’ windows. And the best part might be that this décor can all be done from inside where it’s warm and protected from the elements.

Holiday decor for the front door

Every guest that comes to your home is going to see your front door, so make sure it’s welcoming. Wreaths are a popular choice for door hangings and come in all styles, from traditional green branches and berries to bright colored ribbon. A DIY holiday wreath like this one from Country Living can be a great craft to do with the kids on those cold winter afternoons. Just keep an eye on them when they’re using the glue gun.

A holiday porch leaner or sign might be your answer when decorating a large porch or if you don’t want to hang something on the door itself. These can be bought online in any size, with any saying. They’re so simple, though, we wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to make your own.

Door mats are another smart touch. Not only can it help anchor your décor and bring everything together, but it’s also fantastically functional, helping you keep your home clean as people come and go. There are all kinds of options, from festive phrases to images of, reindeer, snowmen and more. For an extra level of refined style, layer your mats. Place one of a natural material like coir, which will help trap the dirt and slush, over a larger patterned rug, perhaps one that’s plaid or in a color matching the rest of your holiday décor.

Photo by Simply Southern Cottage

Smart locks for party season

Spending time with family and friends is one of the best parts of the holiday season, but hosting often means juggling lots of tasks and responsibilities. Make it easier on yourself and your guests by installing a smart lock. Let those trusted visitors come and go securely by giving them their own code, especially if they’re staying overnight. There’s no more hiding a key under a rock, which isn’t very safe, and it’s so much easier for everyone to finish up that last-minute shopping in secret when you don’t have to keep track of who has a key and who needs one.

 

When you pair a connected smart lock like the Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt with other smart devices in your home, you might find that hosting just got even more convenient. For example, when all your guests have arrived, ask Alexa to start the holiday party. Then any events you’ve scheduled as part of your holiday party scene – playing music, adjusting the lights, even locking the door – are triggered at once without you running around the house and ignoring your guests. Check out these 50 holiday Alexa commands for more ideas.

 

Lastly, if you’re the one headed out of town, a smart lock can help you trust that all is calm while you’re away. Using a compatible app, you can make sure your door is locked, see if someone like the pet sitter has used an access code to enter the house or receive a notification if there’s a disturbance at the door. Pair your Schlage smart lock with another device like the Ring Video Doorbell, and your options get even greater.

 

For more front porch holiday decorating ideas, check out our Pinterest or learn more about our smart locks at Schlage.com.