8 Easy Ways to Keep a Beautiful Home

A vase of freshly cut flowers provides an instant pick-me-up in any room. Buy blooms in bulk and stick to the ones that are in season to save extra money.

Overhead lighting can be so aggressive in the morning--and pretty much always. Dimmers allow you to adjust the brightness according to your mood, time of day and company.

There’s nothing sadder than flat, misshapen pillows. Give them a nice fluff after each use to keep your couches warm and inviting.

Keep a basket near the entryway to corral any potential daily clutter. After a couple weeks, donate or toss everything (or return it to its proper home) and start over.

Because those bleach-stained, ragged things don’t pass muster anymore. If you’re trying to impress special guests (like, say, your mother-in-law) give them a press with an iron so they’re extra crisp.

A few well-placed candles add ambient light and fresh fragrance to key areas like bedrooms, foyers and bathrooms. Tip: Keep an unlit candle in your linen closet to lightly scent all your sheets and towels.

If you’re strapped for time (um, always), focus on these three small spots that accumulate (and show) dust rapidly. Give them a quick wipe down and revel in how much cleaner your living room suddenly looks.