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Moving into a new house is exciting. There are so many things going on all at once when you’re in the process of moving. I remember the first night we spent in our new home. It felt strange, not really like home yet. Almost like when you spend the night in a hotel. Spending the night in a new place can be fun and maybe even a little scary. Our cats were pretty scared. Hansel in particular was terrified and kept hissing at the wall behind our bed.
Did you know that when we’re sleeping somewhere new, our brains stay vigilant to protect against unknown threats? It goes back to our evolutionary roots and you can read more about it here.
When you move into a new house, what are some things that can help it really feel like home?
New Home Essentials
A rug is something that can instantly add a cozy, homey feel to an empty space. You can find a very similar rug here.
Artwork is a very personal thing. Everyone has their own style and preference when it comes to art. Hanging something you love helps to customize your space and make it really, truly feel like your own.
My brother did this painting and it’s one of my favorite pieces. You can follow him on instagram if you’d like!
A new mattress, sheets, and pillows will give your new home a fresh, comfortable place to sleep your first night and every night after that. A lot of times, it doesn’t make sense to drag your old mattress into your new home (for instance, moving a long distance or if your old mattress is in very bad condition.) A new mattress might be just the thing to make your new home perfect.
Did you know that worn out pillows are known to cause a whole host of problems such as neck and hip pain? Moving is a great opportunity to invest in new pillows! And replacing pillows is much more affordable than buying a whole new mattress, so it’s definitely something worth looking into.
Sheets are also much easier to replace than a mattress and there’s nothing quite like the feeling of brand-new, fresh and clean sheets the first night.
Candles and matches are always a good idea. Especially if they smell amazing! My favorites are Bath & Body Works or Yankee Candle Company. Candles will add a definite feeling of warmth to your new home.
Bonus – you can find this adorable owl trivet here.
Dishes and eating utensils are important. It may not seem like it, but eating your first meals in your new home on nice china with real flatware, rather than paper and plastic will make you feel at home and not like you’re camping out somewhere (or make you feel like a struggling college student.)
When we were doing our kitchen remodel, one of the best feelings was when we were able to eat off of real dishes and silverware again!
Our dishes are Gordon Ramsay for Royal Doulton and you can find similar here. Our flatware is Reed & Barton Antique Hammered Stainless Steel, which you can find here.
Taking a bath is one of the most relaxing things you can do to prepare yourself for bed. Make sure to have some great bath products and towels to make your first night’s rest peaceful.
The Threshold towels from Target are my favorite and they’re super affordable! I love how they come in so many different colors so it’s easy to change the look of my bathroom with a pop of color whenever I feel like it.