How to settle into a new home quickly

Posted By Courtenay in Home Stuff, In the Home | 0 comments

Moving house is a huge transition. While the excitement of a fresh start is real, so is the chaos of unpacked boxes and unfamiliar surroundings.

You want to feel at home as soon as possible, but that won’t happen if you’re tripping over clutter or searching endlessly for everyday essentials. Follow our tips to turn your new place into a comfortable and functional space in no time.

Declutter before moving and unpacking

Packing up your old place is the best time to be ruthless about what stays and what goes. Lugging unnecessary items into a new space only adds to the stress and workload when moving in.

Before you start filling boxes, go through your belongings with a critical eye. Anything broken, unused or outdated should be sold, donated or binned.

In your new home, resist the temptation to unpack everything at once. Instead, prioritise essentials while keeping non-urgent items boxed until you know exactly where they belong. This should give you the space needed to visualise the finished project.

Organise room by room

Start with the rooms you use the most – typically the bedrooms, kitchen and home office for most people. Set up your bed so you have a comfortable place to sleep, even if the rest of the house is still a work in progress.

In the kitchen, unpack daily essentials like plates, cups, cutlery and cooking equipment before worrying about décor and those special-occasion items.

As you move from room to room, resist the urge to dump things in random places just to get them out of boxes. Thoughtfully assign everything a place, and if something doesn’t have an obvious one, consider whether you really need it.

Get your storage spaces set up

Your home needs to have storage that works for you. Before cramming wardrobes and cupboards full of things, take a moment to plan the layout. Use dividers, baskets and hooks to maximise space and keep everything easy to find.

For wardrobes, store out-of-season clothing in vacuum-sealed bags or on higher shelves to free up space for everyday wear. In the kitchen, use drawer organisers and stackable containers to prevent cluttered cabinets.

Getting storage right from the beginning saves you the frustration of reorganising later when everything starts feeling chaotic. You might need some custom storage like fitted wardrobes, but that can always come later!

Add homely, personal touches

A house only starts feeling like home when it reflects you. Unpack your favourite items of décor, display family photos and add cosy touches like rugs, cushions and lighting that create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Scents can also make a big difference. Whether it’s a favourite candle, fresh flowers or a familiar fabric conditioner, introduce familiar smells to make your new space feel instantly more welcoming.