Home renovations are exciting, but some projects can affect your daily routine. Most people stay in their homes through the duration of a home project, so prepare yourself and your home to adjust smoothly and keep everyone safe.

Declutter 

If you’re hiring contractors, ensure they have room to place their tools and supplies. Use the weeks ahead of the renovation to do a heavy declutter of your home, especially in the areas your contractors will be working.

Rearrange

Move unnecessary furniture away from the center of the room so your contractors can move materials in and out of your house safely. Additionally, go through your odds and ends stored on tabletops and shelves, which can be optimal spots for the contractors to place their items while they’re working.

Store

Move items such as pillows, rugs, and blankets to a location away from the renovation site. Aside from crowding the room, they can get damaged amidst the extra foot traffic. Grab a few boxes and put everything away in a basement, garage, or spare bedroom with extra space.

Shut out the noise 

Most people are used to noises here and there from their neighbors, pets, and children. However, renovations can get a bit louder than background noise.

Noise-canceling headphones

Noise-canceling headphones can be a lifesaver. While these headphones may not cut out all the renovation noises, they can greatly reduce them and help you focus while protecting your ears. If you don’t plan on listening to music or podcasts, earplugs can also be helpful.

Soft materials 

For additional noise cancellation, you can move materials like upholstered furniture and rugs into your hangout spot that can absorb sounds and keep them from echoing through your home. You don’t need an expensive sound-proof door or tiles to help absorb some of the noise. The items you already own can do the trick if you get creative and rearrange. 

Prepare for dust 

Dust will inevitably increase in your home during any renovation. If you have allergies, this can be particularly irritating. Your best defense is to accept that there will be dust and prepare for it ahead of time.

Air filters and purifiers

Invest in new air filters if you haven’t had them changed in a while—this is also an optimal time to check in with your HVAC service. Open a few windows near the renovation site (weather permitting) to keep fresh air flowing. Additionally, a portable air purifier can come in handy to keep nearby wherever you’re eating, sleeping, or working.

Daily dusting

Get into a routine of putting on a mask and using a duster, like a Swiffer, that can absorb dust rather than spread it. Consider a duster with a washable head to save you money on replacements. Be sure to stay in safe areas of the renovation, and don’t dust where hazardous materials are lying around.

Sheets and cloths 

Place canvas tarps or sheets overtop your furniture and decor made from soft materials, such as upholstery. By doing so, you can minimize dust buildup in hard-to-clean places. When the renovation is finished, carefully fold the canvas and take it outside to shake out the dust.

Have an escape in place 

There are times that all the preparation in the world can’t stop the renovation from getting in the way of your day-to-day activities. It’s a good idea to have a neighbor, family member, or friend who can provide you a space in their home to take a shower, hop on a work call, cook a meal, or let your pets walk around. Show your gratitude at the end of the renovation by having them over for a meal to see the finished project and gifting an item they’ll appreciate.