Feeling Stuck Indoors This January? Easy DIY Projects to Refresh Your Home

Cold January days often leave us indoors more than we’d like. While the weather outside may not be inspiring, it’s actually the perfect time to tackle small home projects you’ve been putting off. You don’t need big tools, special skills, or a full renovation plan — just a little time and motivation.

If you’re feeling cooped up, here are simple, DIY-friendly home organization and maintenance ideas that can make your space feel better instantly.

1. Declutter One Small Area (Not the Whole House)

Instead of overwhelming yourself, pick one drawer, one shelf, or one cabinet.

Easy places to start:

• Junk drawer

• Bathroom cabinet

• Entryway closet

• Kitchen utensil drawer

Set a 20-minute timer and stop when it ends. Small wins add up, and even one organized space can make your home feel calmer.

2. Refresh Your Pantry or Fridge

January is a great reset month.

Quick tasks:

• Toss expired food

• Wipe shelves with warm soapy water

• Group items by category (snacks, baking, breakfast)

• Use bins or baskets if you have them — no need to buy anything new

This makes daily routines easier and helps reduce food waste.

3. Check and Replace Basic Home Essentials

These are easy but often forgotten:

• Replace HVAC or furnace filters

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

• Replace burned-out light bulbs

• Check batteries in remotes and wall clocks

These small maintenance tasks improve safety and efficiency and take very little time.

4. Organize Digital Clutter

If it’s too cold to move around much, try a digital reset:

• Delete unused apps

• Clean up your phone photos

• Unsubscribe from emails you don’t read

• Organize important documents into folders

It’s still “home organization,” just in a modern way — and it feels surprisingly refreshing.

5. Deep Clean One Overlooked Spot

Choose something you usually skip:

• Baseboards

• Light switches and door handles

• Ceiling fans

• Behind the toilet

• Inside trash cans

These quick clean-ups make your whole home feel fresher without a full-day cleaning session.

6. Create a Simple Drop Zone

Winter means coats, hats, gloves, and bags everywhere.

DIY solution:

• Designate hooks, a basket, or a small table near the door

• Assign each person their own space

• Keep it simple and realistic

This helps prevent clutter from spreading through the house.

7. Plan Ahead for Spring

You don’t have to do the big projects yet — just plan them.

Ideas:

• Make a list of spring maintenance tasks

• Research contractors or DIY tutorials

• Set a rough budget

• Decide what you’ll donate, sell, or store

Planning now makes spring feel less overwhelming later.

8. Freshen the Air (Without Opening Windows)

When it’s cold out, indoor air can feel stale.

Try:

• Washing throw blankets and pillow covers

• Simmering citrus peels or cinnamon on the stove

• Adding a low-maintenance houseplant

• Using a natural room spray or diffuser

Small sensory changes can make your home feel cozier instantly.

Final Thoughts

Being stuck indoors doesn’t have to feel unproductive. January is a great time for low-effort, high-impact projects that make your home more comfortable and organized. Even one small task can improve how your space feels — and help you start the year with a sense of progress.

Sometimes, the best way to beat the winter blues is simply making your home work better for you.

Have any ideas you'd like to add to the list? Are you looking for contractors or resources to help with your home projects? We'd love to hear from you!

Jennifer Delisle

Luxe Living Real Estate

Keller Williams Realty Metropolitan

Serving New Hampshire and Massachuetts

603.490.8816