As an interior designer, I’ve often thought that a user manual for your home could be a very useful addition following a home purchase or major remodel. There are so many things in your home that can wear out or just benefit from regular maintenance to keep everyone safe and healthy.
Here’s a list of some items you may want to check on:
1. Air Filters
If you do not replace these filters on a normal basis, it can be easy to forget to replace the air filters and HVAC filters that are found in your home and help keep the air in your home clean. However, this can lead to needing an expensive HVAC repair down the road. Better to routine check and replace, for safety and for the savings.
2. Kitchen Sponges
Many individuals go several weeks or months even without replacing their kitchen sponges, but they need to be replaced at least once a month or every two weeks. If you do your dishes by hand, you’ll want to replace them even more often than that.
Between replacements, make sure you are sanitizing your sponges to remove any bacteria and grime that may build up. Just microwave it or boil it in water, or you can even put it in your dishwasher for quick sanitation that will help keep you healthy!
3. Water Filter
You probably use a water filter in some way or form. Whether it’s a filter on your refrigerator’s built-in water maker, on your faucet, or within a pitcher, be sure to replace those according to the instructions. It matters.
4. Fire Extinguisher
If you have a fire extinguisher in your home, it will have an expiration date on it. Make sure to check the gauge on the extinguisher once a month, even if it has not expired, to ensure it is still working as it should. As soon as the expiration date passes or if the gauge is not working, replace your extinguisher as soon as possible for your safety. It’s easy to forget about maintenance and replacing, so put it on your calendar if you have to — this device is truly life-saving!
5. Pillows
Bed pillows can collect dust, dirt, and bacteria easily over time which can make you sick when you are sleeping on them every night. Replace your bed pillows on an annual basis. Decorative pillows aren’t used as much, so you may not have to replace your decorative pillows for 7 years, unless your taste has changed. If that’s the case, then give your designer a call!
Xo,
Kathryn