As COVID-19 makes its presence known in the Idaho area, you may find yourself hunkered down in your rental house or apartment. Stay safe and fend off boredom with these easy DIY projects that won’t hurt your wallet.

Declutter

Now is the perfect time to take stock of your belongings and get rid of what you don’t need, like the boxes you never unpacked from your latest move. Go through overflowing pantries and toss any expired canned and dry goods. You can donate any unwanted household items or hold a socially distant yard sale with your neighbors.

Feng Shui Your Space

It’s easy to feel trapped in a stagnant space, so rearrange your furniture to improve the feng shui of your home. Move large furniture away from windows to allow in more natural light. Consider moving your bed to the opposite side of the room to switch up your morning routine.

Redecorate

With the extra time on your hands, hanging level frames of pictures and posters is a much more approachable task. Avoid mishaps by following our tips to damage-free redecorating.

Update dated cabinets and drawers by replacing knobs and handles. Even the most unhandy tenant can get the job done with just a screwdriver. Opt for bright designs to add a splash of color or stick to stainless steel for a contemporary, modern look. Be sure to retain any original parts to replace before leaving your rental property. 

Deep Clean

Deep cleaning is never on anyone’s to-do list, but it will be easier to conquer knowing you aren’t missing out on social activities. Start with the obvious spots and work your way through the overlooked places like baseboards, ceiling fan blades, and tile grout.

Build an Herb Garden

Kitchen herb gardens are a sustainable and inexpensive way to keep busy while providing delicious additions to your quarantine recipes. Repurpose a long, shallow dish or container as your planter and add rich soil. If starting from seeds, be sure to germinate them in a moist paper towel for a few days before planting. Common herbs that perform well in kitchen gardens include parsley, mint, and rosemary. Most herbs do well in full sun, so placing your herb garden in a south-facing window will yield the best results.

Get Ahead of Holiday Madness

This extra time ahead of the holidays can work to your advantage. Hold a family photoshoot for holiday cards in your home by hanging a plain sheet or decorative table cloth. Get creative with props and play with lighting to achieve your desired feel.