Even though the air is cooler in the fall, there is something quite cozy about the season. It’s the perfect time to cuddle up on the couch and read a book with the fireplace roaring in the background. Sipping warm drinks like pumpkin spice lattes and hot chocolates doesn’t hurt either.
The warm tones of fall set the stage for this cozy feeling. Colors such as pumpkin and burnt orange, deep reds, browns and mustard yellow have this warming sensation. You can incorporate these hues into your home design to help bring this warmth into your space. There are also a number of other ways to give your home a comfy vibe.
Add throw blankets and pillows
Warm up your couches and chairs with throw blankets and pillows. Chunky knits, fleece, faux fur and wool can help you create a cozy environment.
Get your fireplace ready
If you have a fireplace, make sure it’s ready for this season and winter. Old ashes should be cleared away, cracks and loose joints in brick fireplaces should be fixed by a professional and the chimney should also be checked and cleaned by a professional.
Warm up with candles and the sun
Your fireplace may be one source of heat and ambiance, but there’s a smaller one you can employ as well. Candles can help create this cozy feeling, especially if you go with warming scents, such as vanilla, cinnamon, apple spice and pumpkin. You can also put a pot on the stove with a mixture of water, apple cider, apple slices and cinnamon to create a seasonal scent. In addition, make use of any other heating source, such as the sun. When it’s nice out, open up the blinds and let the light in.
Consider your flooring
Carpeting can help your tootsies stay toasty. Area rugs can also be used to keep your feet protected from a cool floor. You can even layer two rugs for an interesting and dynamic look. Don’t forget your floor mats either. Place them anywhere you might need them, where your feet might get chilly, such as by the kitchen and bathroom sinks. Floors with underlayment are often warmer because of better insulation. If you really want your feet to stay warm, you can even go for radiant heated flooring. Your tile won’t feel cool to the touch anymore! If you prefer a hardwood look, it actually does pretty well if the home has good insulation. But, if it’s cold in the house, your flooring is going to be cold. Engineered hardwood is another option to consider as it does not tend to shrink when the air is cooler.
Check for any air leaks
Be aware that your flooring will stay warmer if the environment is warmer. So, make sure any areas that are leaking your heat and letting the cool air in are dealt with. This may mean that new weather stripping needs to be installed and a draft stopper needs to be placed under your door. The more heat you can contain, the better for your wallet and your comfort level.
Cozy up with warm drinks and fuzzy socks
When you have guests over, keep them cozy by offering them warm drinks, such as coffee, tea, hot apple cider and hot chocolate. Ask them if the temperature is OK in the house and let them know they’re welcome to use the throws if they want them.
Fuzzy socks (non-slip is ideal) can also keep you and your guests comfortable. You could put a little basket by your entrance with a sign, letting them know they’re welcome to a pair. Either gift them to your guests to take home or have another small laundry basket for when they leave (with a clear sign).
Decorate for the season
Decorating your home for the season can also help provide that fall cozy feeling. Start with your entrance. Put a wreath up and add some fall decor to your porch, then move inside. Consider changing out your centerpiece and decorating your mantel with small pumpkins or gourds. Maize, sunflowers, pinecones, branches and apples can also be a nice tie in for the fall season. Don’t forget your bathroom, and add a fall fragrance and a warm colored bouquet there.
Warm up your bedroom
This is one room you don’t want to neglect when it comes to creating a cozy environment. Fleece sheets can keep you warm all night long. A heating blanket with an auto shut-off or a thick comforter can also be nice when it’s time to crawl under the covers.
There are so many ways to enjoy the fall season in comfort. Consider how you might enhance your living space this season. Bring in the colors and scents of fall, add cozy items such as throws and pillows to your furniture. Think about how you might warm up your feet, too. If you want to browse flooring options, contact us at Carpets America. We’re happy to answer any questions you might have and help you find the right option for your home.