I’m so happy February is here. It brings the promise of spring—and in our family it’s extra special this month because our first grandson will arrive. Even though the weather can still be wintry, I’m ready for brighter days, blooming flowers, and more light. After adding tulips to the living room, I felt inspired to do a little early spring cleaning and refreshing around the house. It’s a bit early, but a few small updates already feel uplifting. Here are some simple changes I made this week that brought a springlike feeling indoors.
A vintage crock as a vase felt like instant spring. I picked up a large bouquet at Trader Joe’s while out running errands and initially planned to divide it up. When I set the blooms in the crock they looked so cheerful that I left them as one big arrangement. The crock gives the flowers a casual, homey look and brightens the room immediately.
A charming teapot to lift the spirits. During winter we often enjoy an afternoon cup of tea, and a new floral teapot felt like the perfect small indulgence. This teapot has a delicate pattern that makes tea time feel special and cheerful even on gray days—like a tiny, cozy moment of spring inside the house.
The kettle is available in several patterns and there’s also an electric version. Small kitchen details—pretty ceramics or a nicely patterned appliance—can change the mood of a room and make everyday routines feel thoughtful and enjoyable.
Useful and pretty cleaning supplies. With spring cleaning on my mind, I tried a set of reusable paper-towel substitutes that arrived recently. They’re thicker and more absorbent than disposable towels, and they’re machine-washable or top-rack dishwasher-safe. We’ve cut back on disposable paper towels for years, but washing dishcloths became a chore. These reusable towels are the perfect compromise—cute, practical, and the right size for everyday spills. They tuck neatly in a drawer and have already become a favorite in our kitchen.
If you want to replace some single-use items with durable, attractive alternatives, small switches like these can make daily chores feel easier and more sustainable.
A bedroom mini-refresh to lift the mood. Winter can leave spaces feeling cluttered and uninspiring, so I spent a little time tidying and simplifying our bedroom. A quick clean-up in one corner took only minutes but made the room feel calmer. I added a rug for warmth and traction on our new hardwood floors—our older pup appreciates the grip—and treated myself to a colorful patchwork quilt as a birthday gift. Quilts add charm, color, and a cozy, layered look that instantly softens a bedroom.
Quilts have been a longtime dream of mine—I’ve always wanted a shelf with a stack of colorful quilts to pull out when the mood calls for extra comfort. Each new quilt brings personality and a sense of history to the home, and I’m slowly building that collection.
Recently I led a lesson about simplifying closets, and I’m applying the same ideas to my own space: baby steps and progress over perfection. The Inspired Room began 17 years ago with the simple goal of helping others create a sanctuary at home, and continuing to share those ideas—through posts, community lessons, and books—remains a joy. If you enjoy learning intentional ways to style and simplify, my membership community will be opening for spring sessions soon.
Flameless candles for a soft, romantic touch. With Valentine’s Day approaching, battery-operated tapers are an easy, safe way to add romance all winter long. I tried a set of colored flameless tapers and they became a favorite: they come in coordinated shades, include a remote, and make evenings feel gentle and inviting. They’re pretty enough to leave on for hours and come in multiple color palettes to suit your decor.
Source: Green Battery Operated Taper Candle (also available in other colors)
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