A Spring Spruce Up – Making Time for Home Improvements

Being a Mum is no easy task – fact. At the best of times, it’s a constant juggling act and most definitely a full time job. A major part of being a parent also includes the inevitable sacrifice of nearly all of your free time! From first-hand experience, I know this can often be frustrating, especially when you have a never ending to-do list…

At the moment, I’m (trying) to make it my project to spruce up our home and give the place a fresh lick of paint as we enter into the spring months. It seems like the perfect time for a change and is a definite way to get me motivated for some spring cleaning! As a firm ‘do it yourself’ advocate – I’ve been reluctant to hire any decorators or outside help, however finding the time to get things done myself has been a challenge! That’s why I’ve put together a top 3 list of clever and time saving DIY-hacks that can help busy Mum’s, just like you and I to get the job done without a fuss! 

Try before you buy

When it comes to repainting, I’d be pretty much lost without the nifty little sample pots that allow you to test paints out at home before you commit to buying the entire tin. Grabbing a few of these (they’re usually around £1 each) will enable you to try out a host of different shades and colours on your walls at home first - ensuring you’re 100% opting for the right colour before you get stuck in.

One coat only

There’s nothing more annoying and time consuming after you’ve finished painting your bedroom than the realisation that you have to start all over again on that second coat. I’ve recently discovered Dulux Trade paint, which thankfully remedies that. Just one coat of this premium quality paint gives you enough coverage to not have to go back again twice – phew!

Preparation is key

For best results, it’s also important to spend time prepping your ceilings and walls for their makeover. Before you get stuck in, ensure both are clean and dust-free – not forgetting dry and smooth. You can wash them down with regular detergent or soapy water. Then rinse with clean water and let them dry.  

Helpful hint...

Those annoyingly fluffy alkaline patches on your walls can be rubbed down until gone with a piece of glass paper or hessian – this will give your walls a much smoother finish!

Despite the obvious stress that a home revamp can sometimes bring - the important thing is to remember to have fun too! Why not give the kids a brush each and encourage them to get painting? Remember that redecorating doesn’t have to be a chore -  but can also be turned into a chance for everybody to get a little bit creative and even as an excuse to bring the family together to all chip in… Happy painting!