If you’re looking for a fast and easy way to brighten up your home this winter, look no further!  Here are 7 cost-effective, but highly satisfying fixes to bring some light back into your home.

1. Raise your curtains

Hanging your curtain rods as high to the ceiling as possible will make your space feel bigger and brighter.  Curtains should just barely hit the floor, so you may need to find extra-long curtains depending on how high your ceilings are.

2. Paint your walls

White paint will cause light to bounce around the most, but a light cream or grey can also do the trick without looking too stark.  Be sure to test a few samples on the walls to rule out any colors with unwanted under-tones.

3. Swap your bulbs

Switching out your lightbulbs to the highest recommended wattage will make a huge difference.  LED lights will drastically brighten the space while keeping your electric bill low.

4. Clean your fixtures

Regularly cleaning off your chandeliers and sconces will shed way more light onto your space.  The sparkly finish will help keep things light and airy.

5. Open shelving

Open shelves add more depth to small spaces.  They make a room feel brighter than it otherwise would with large cabinets or furniture.  Be sure to keep them tidy and clutter-free to achieve a less heavy feel.

6. Remove your screens

Taking the screens off your windows will let in 30% more sunlight indoors.  The sunlight will help warm your house and reduce your heating bill!  Store them in a safe place and be sure to put them back on in the springtime to reduce your a/c bill.

7. Mirrors

Mirrors reflect light which makes any space feel bigger and brighter.  Can’t figure out what to do with a big empty wall?  Hang a gallery of mirrors or rest an oversized one against the wall.  Both visually appealing and will bring plenty of light to the room.