If the kitchen is the heart of the home, then surely it deserves a little TLC every now and then. In most homes, kitchens get a lot of use and a lot of resulting wear and tear. Even if you don’t have the budget for a complete makeover, making even a simple change or two can update and brighten your kitchen. Whether you plan to sell or stay in your home for a while, here are five ways to amp up the kitchen area:
1. Paint or stain the cabinets.
If your kitchen cabinetry looks outdated or just grimy, you don’t have to tear it all out to make a big improvement. Consider giving your kitchen a facelift by painting or staining the existing cabinets. In addition to being less expensive than getting all new cabinets, painting or staining takes less time, is less intrusive, and makes less mess.
2. Change the hardware.
If you’re happy with your cabinets the way they are, consider swapping out the door knobs and cabinet handles for a new style. Hardware can update a kitchen and give a fresh new look. Before you decide on a finish for the hardware, consider your lighting, plumbing, and appliance fixtures to make sure the new selection complements and blends well with those features.
3. New countertops and/or backsplash.
Making a change to your kitchen’s countertops or adding a backsplash offers an instant refresh may even elevate its quality. Today, many prospective buyers desire solid-surface countertops in kitchen and bathroom areas. Choose materials that balance well with your cabinets, appliances, and fixtures and that are practical for the way you cook and use your kitchen. Shop around for the best price, quality, and installation.
4. Upgrade appliances.
Getting new appliances can enhance your kitchen and may result in energy savings, too, with more efficient models. Regardless of the age of your kitchen appliances, make sure they have HSA Home Warranty A home warranty is a one-year service contract that covers the repair or replacement of components of many major home systems and appliances. An HSA Home Warranty can help protect your budget from the high cost of unexpected repairs on covered systems and appliances. It can also give you confidence that covered repairs will be handled by a qualified service professional.
5. Declutter and organize.
Perhaps the most inexpensive, easy way to amp up your kitchen is to simply clear out unused items and organize those that you intend to keep. Start by cleaning off kitchen countertops and shelves for a sleek, minimal look. This simple step can immediately open up your kitchen and make it look more spacious. Next, tackle drawers and cabinets, using baskets, boxes, and dividers to keep your kitchen equipment and supplies consolidated and easy to find. Donate or sell unused items, and enjoy the new space you’ve created.
If you don’t have the time or budget to implement these suggestions, a good cleaning can brighten and refresh any kitchen. For an easy, inexpensive and natural cleaning solution, try mixing three parts water with one part distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle. Add lemon juice for added cleaning punch and a fresh scent. To get your kitchen sink sparkling clean, shake some baking soda over the sink and use a brush to scrub. Even older kitchens can look like new after a thorough cleaning.