Set real cleaning aside. Code red! You've got 15 minutes until someone walks in your front door. What do you do?

Top Ten Ways to Fake a Clean House in 15 Minutes

1. Light a Candle (or Two)

• 
  Instantly changes the mood — cozy, intentional, welcoming
  
  
  
• Distracts from dust, clutter, or pet smells
  
  
  
• Choose scents that smell clean (citrus, linen, herbs) rather than heavy perfume
  
  
  
• Bonus: dim the lights a bit — candlelight hides a multitude of sins
  
  
  
  

2. Clear the Entryway

• 
  First impression zone — it matters most
  
  
  
• Scoop up shoes, boots, coats, and bags — toss into a basket/closet
  
  
  
• Straighten the rug, sweep quickly if needed
  
  
  
• Even a vase of grocery store flowers makes it feel “ready for company”
  
  
  
  

3. Wipe the Bathroom Sink and Swap the Hand Towel

• 
  Guests almost always use the bathroom — it’s a giveaway space
  
  
  
• Wipe toothpaste, water spots, and fingerprints off sink and mirror
  
  
  
• Replace hand towel with a fresh, clean one (even if from the linen closet)
  
  
  
• Quick check for toilet paper roll and a candle in the corner = instant polish
  
  
  
  

4. Fluff the Couch Cushions and Toss on a Throw

• 
  Messy sofa = messy house in people’s minds
  
  
  
• Quick karate-chop the pillows (design trick: makes them look plumped)
  
  
  
• Smooth cushions and throws — or just throw a blanket over a problem spot
  
  
  
• Adds a “styled on purpose” look in seconds
  
  
  
  

5. Do the Dishes Dash

• 
  Clear sink is visual shorthand for “I keep a clean house”
  
  
  
• Load dishwasher fast — no sorting, just stash
  
  
  
• No dishwasher? Dirty dishes into oven (yes, it works — just don’t forget them!)
  
  
  
• Wipe sink basin — shiny sink distracts from messy counters
  
  
  
  

6. Vacuum Lines — Even If You Don’t Vacuum the Whole House

• 
  Guests see the living room rug first — run the vacuum in a grid
  
  
  
• Visible lines = fresh clean illusion, even if dust bunnies are still hiding
  
  
  
• If no time for full vacuum, at least hit high-traffic spots (entry + living room)
  
  
  
• Sound of vacuum running before guests arrive also works psychological magic
  
  
  
  

7. Corral the Clutter

Get luxury linens from our friends at American Blossom Linens and save 20% with code TOP20: https://americanblossomlinens.com

Clean, CLEAN with Branch Basics! https://branchbasics.com/ Coupon code HOMEMAKERCHIC

Décorate your home with French antiques just in from Paris at Everyday Château https://www.everydaychateau.com/

Want to skill up in the kitchen? Visit cook.theelliotthomestead.com for 5 new recipes and tutorials a month!

Follow up on YouTube for FULL Videos:
https://www.youtube.com/@homemakerchicpodcast (Please note episodes can run up to a couple weeks late on Youtube.

Follow us on Instagram
https://instagram.com/homemakerchicpodcast

Support the show on Patreon and get digital downloads of both our cookbooks!
https://www.patreon.com/homemakerchicpodcast

Adding touches of luxury to our homes keeps us inspired and interested in our day-to-day routines.

Top 10 Simple Ways to Add Luxury to Your Home

1. Create a Spa-Like Bathroom Experience
Transform your bathroom into a peaceful retreat by adding elements that evoke luxury and relaxation. Consider installing a rain showerhead or a deep soaking tub. Invest in plush towels and a soft bath mat, and don’t forget a few indulgent products like high-end bath oils or body scrubs. Soft, ambient lighting and candles will create a soothing atmosphere, making it feel like your very own personal spa.

2. Use Rich Fabrics Like Velvet and Silk for Curtains and Pillows
To instantly elevate the feel of any room, incorporate luxurious fabrics like velvet, silk, or linen. These materials add a tactile richness that is both opulent and comfortable. Consider velvet throw pillows, silk curtains, or a plush velvet throw for the sofa. These fabrics help to bring sophistication to both modern and traditional interiors.

3. Install Dimmer Switches for Softer Lighting
Lighting plays a huge role in creating a luxurious atmosphere. Install dimmer switches in your living and dining rooms, as well as in your bedroom, to adjust the light levels depending on the mood. Soft, diffused lighting is more flattering and relaxing. Pair with elegant table lamps or chandeliers to add both form and function.

4. Upgrade Your Bed with Luxury Linens and Pillows
The bed is the centerpiece of any bedroom, and upgrading it can make your entire room feel like a five-star hotel suite. Opt for high-thread-count sheets, preferably in natural fabrics like Egyptian cotton or linen. Add a plush duvet or comforter, and layer your bed with quality throw pillows and a velvet or cashmere blanket for extra comfort. Don’t forget to invest in a luxurious mattress topper for added support and softness.

5. Make Your Home Smell Luxurious
A signature scent can instantly elevate your home’s ambiance. Invest in high-quality candles with warm, sophisticated scents like sandalwood, jasmine, or amber. Scent diffusers with essential oils are also a great option for continuous fragrance. For an extra touch, consider using luxury room sprays or incense to create an inviting, sophisticated atmosphere.

6. Add Gold or Metallic Accents to Your Decor
Gold, brass, and other metallic finishes can add a touch of glamour and sophistication to any space. Consider adding gold picture frames, metallic trays, or brass lamps to your living room or entryway. Small metallic accents can help elevate a neutral space without overwhelming it, bringing a sense of opulence and timeless style.

7. Create a Stylish Home Bar or Coffee Station
A well-curated home bar or coffee station can be a functional yet luxurious addition to your home. Invest in quality glassware, a stylish cocktail s

Get luxury linens from our friends at American Blossom Linens and save 20% with code TOP20: https://americanblossomlinens.com

Clean, CLEAN with Branch Basics! https://branchbasics.com/ Coupon code HOMEMAKERCHIC

Décorate your home with French antiques just in from Paris at Everyday Château https://www.everydaychateau.com/

Want to skill up in the kitchen? Visit cook.theelliotthomestead.com for 5 new recipes and tutorials a month!

Follow up on YouTube for FULL Videos:
https://www.youtube.com/@homemakerchicpodcast (Please note episodes can run up to a couple weeks late on Youtube.

Follow us on Instagram
https://instagram.com/homemakerchicpodcast

Support the show on Patreon and get digital downloads of both our cookbooks!
https://www.patreon.com/homemakerchicpodcast

In this episode, we explore the misconception that a clutter-free home equals minimalism, and instead, we embrace the idea of creating a cozy, lived-in space that feels both organized and inviting.

Tip 1: Define Your Space
We discuss how to identify which items truly add value or joy to your space and how to make sure everything you keep serves a purpose or brings happiness.

Tip 2: Curate Collections
Learn how to display your cherished collections or meaningful items in a way that feels organized and intentional, without creating visual clutter.

Tip 3: Smart Storage Solutions
We share stylish and functional storage ideas that keep your belongings organized yet accessible, blending both beauty and practicality.

Tip 4: Regular Editing
The importance of periodically editing your home is discussed, along with tips for keeping what you love and parting with what no longer serves you.

Tip 5: Multi-Functional Furniture
Discover furniture pieces that offer more than one function, helping you reduce clutter while maximizing space and style.

Tip 6: Daily Habits
Simple daily habits can make a huge difference in maintaining order. We discuss routines that make keeping a tidy home feel effortless and not overwhelming.

Tip 7: Personal Touches
Adding personal, meaningful decor is key to making your home feel inviting and unique. We talk about how to introduce touches that reflect your style without overcrowding your space.

Tip 8: Zone Organization
By organizing rooms into zones based on their functions, you can create a sense of order and make every space in your home work for you.

Tip 9: Seasonal Refreshes
Rotating decor and items seasonally not only keeps your space fresh, but it also helps prevent clutter from accumulating over time.

Tip 10: Embrace Imperfection
A cozy home doesn’t have to be perfect. We discuss how a little lived-in charm can add warmth and personality to your home without it feeling chaotic.

Conclusion
We recap all ten tips and encourage you to find your own balance between creating a cozy atmosphere and maintaining a clutter-free home.

Get luxury linens from our friends at American Blossom Linens and save 20% with code TOP20: https://americanblossomlinens.com

Clean, CLEAN with Branch Basics! https://branchbasics.com/ Coupon code HOMEMAKERCHIC

Décorate your home with French antiques just in from Paris at Everyday Château https://www.everydaychateau.com/

Want to skill up in the kitchen? Visit cook.theelliotthomestead.com for 5 new recipes and tutorials a month!

Follow up on YouTube for FULL Videos:
https://www.youtube.com/@homemakerchicpodcast (Please note episodes can run up to a couple weeks late on Youtube.

Follow us on Instagram
https://instagram.com/homemakerchicpodcast

Support the show on Patreon and get digital downloads of both our cookbooks!
https://www.patreon.com/homemakerchicpodcast