Caring for Your Home: Tips I’ve Learned (and Lived) Along the Way

I’ll never forget the first time I walked into a newly completed home I had designed. The floors were gleaming, the stone surfaces sparkled, the air felt fresh, and every single detail was just right. The client turned to me, glowing with joy, and said, “It feels like a dream come true.”

But then came the second part: “Now how do I keep it looking like this?”

That moment stuck with me. Because designing a beautiful space is just the beginning. Living in that space – and caring for it – is what makes it truly feel like home.

As someone who lives and breathes interiors, I’ve picked up a lot of maintenance tips over the years from the real pros – the stone supplier who waxed poetic about baby oil, the upholsterer who swore by upward wiping motions, and the carpet expert who handed me a bottle of Capture like it was gold. I’ve also learned a lot from trial and error in my own home (don’t ask me about the time I used the wrong cleaner on a bronze mirror – lesson learned!).

Here’s the checklist I share with my clients when they ask how to keep their homes looking fresh, beautiful, and well-cared-for – through every season.

General Maintenance: Start with the Basics

• Dust regularly using a slightly damp, lint-free cloth. It’s the easiest way to refresh your space.

• Protect your surfaces – use coasters, placemats, and felt pads under decor items. You’ll thank yourself later when your tables stay scratch-free.

• Use hot dish protectors under anything coming straight from the oven or stove.

• Add furniture floor protectors (those felt or rubber pads under chair and table legs) to prevent scratches. They come in all sizes – tiny ones for chairs, larger ones for dining tables.

• Stick on clear adhesive bumpers where doors or windows might hit a wall or tiled surface. They’re barely visible but make a big impact in avoiding chips and dents.

Plumbing Care: Prevent Problems Before They Start

To keep your drains clear and your plumbing running smoothly,  avoid pouring grease or food scraps down the drain, and use a simple drain strainer.

Air Conditioning Filters: Breathe Better

Follow your unit’s manual and clean those filters regularly. It improves air quality and helps your system work efficiently – especially important in our Israeli summers!

Marble & Stone: Spa Day for Your Surfaces

Marble is elegant, but it’s also a diva. If you spill something, clean it immediately to prevent stains. And here’s a little insider trick: use a bit of baby oil on a soft cloth to bring back that gorgeous glow. It’s like moisturizer for your countertops!

Leather Care: Stay Smooth

Leather needs love too. Condition it regularly to prevent drying or cracking. A soft, supple leather sofa can stay that way for years with just a little TLC.

Glass Care: Keep It Sparkling and Streak-Free 

For a crystal-clear finish on standard glass surfaces and windows, mix equal parts distilled white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the glass and wipe it clean using a microfiber cloth or crumpled newspaper (yes, old-school newspaper works wonders!). 

Carpet Care: Keep It Fresh

For spot cleaning carpets, blot spills immediately with a clean, dry cloth—never rub, as that can push the stain deeper into the fibers. Once the area is mostly dry, gently dab with a cloth dipped in a mix of warm water and a small amount of mild soap. Always test any cleaning method on a hidden area first to make sure it won’t damage the fibers or color

Upholstery Care: Up and Away

When spills happen (and they will), use a wet wipe with alcohol, and gently lift the stain in an upward motion. Don’t rub it in! Vacuum weekly and schedule a professional cleaning yearly. It keeps everything looking (and smelling) fresh.

Wood Maintenance: Keep the Glow

Buff your wood surfaces with a lint-free cloth every so often to renew their shine. For cleaning, a soft cloth dampened with distilled water works beautifully. Just wipe and buff dry – it’s an instant refresh.

A Final Thought…

When you care for your home, you’re doing more than cleaning – you’re showing love to the space that holds your family’s laughter, your memories, and your daily life. These small habits help preserve the beauty and function of your home, long after the paint has dried and the furniture is placed.

If you’ve picked up a tip or trick of your own, I’d love to hear it. Let’s keep the conversation going – and keep our homes looking and feeling their best.

With warmth,
Sandy