6 Ways to Make Your House Brighter in Winter

 Fall and winter always start out cozy - I mean, who doesn't love being swaddled in a blanket binging Netflix while temperatures plummet outside? Reality tends to hit quickly when January rolls around that cozy nest starts to feel more like an enclosing cave. 

Utilizing lighting can be a game changer in the winter months. Here are some tips to brighten and lighten your home during winter months. 


#1 Remove the Screens from Windows


Surprisingly, you will get 30% more light by simply removing the screens from your windows! Not only that, but sunlight heats up a room, so you can also save money on your heating bill. Store the screens somewhere they will not get damaged. You won't want to forget to put the screens back on come Spring/Summer to keep that 30% of sun out!


#2 Hang Outdoor String Lights Indoors


They may not produce a lot of light, but they sure are relaxing! Drape them over a window or mantel, or string some soft LEDs through a tall potted plant. The soft glow will have you reminiscing about filp-flops, bonfires, and fireflies. 


#3 Think, Swedish Chic...


Scandinavians have had to adapt to weeks and weeks of polar night, so they keep interiors in pale tones to reflect and amplify light.

Think white walls, light wood furniture and floors, and light upholstery. To utilize the look without getting rid of your dark color sofa and floors use a slip cover on your sofa and chairs and put down light colored rugs.

#4 Replace Those Bulbs


If you haven't made the switch to LED yet, now is the time. Swap out those old incandescent bulbs and their yellowy light, with LED's. LED's produce brighter and whiter light.

But get your bright right:

  • The higher the K rating on the bulb, the cooler and whiter its light.
  • For cool, white light, opt for a bulb rated 3,500K to 4,100K.
  • For blue-white light that's closest to natural daylight, use a bulb between 5,000K and 6,500K.

#5 Hang Mirrors


Make the most of that dull winter light by bouncing it around the room with mirrors. Large convex, or fish-eye, mirrors are best for reflecting light.


#6 Replace Heavy Curtains with Roman Shades or Blinds


Fabric curtains, while quite insulating, block light and make a room feel smaller and more cramped, especially if they're a dark color or have a large print.

Try Roman shades or a simple valance paired with blinds to let in the maximum amount of natural light.