After the long, and often drawn out cold from the winter months, summer is such a welcome relief that we can’t wait to store away winter clothes and bring out the cooler summer wardrobe. We often get so busy with enjoying the wonderful warmth that we neglect to put away our winter home décor and update our homes for the warm summer months.

Simply doing a few simple tasks can turn your home décor into a summer paradise. Start with putting away blankets and quilts. After all, you don’t need them any longer, at least until next winter, so store them in closets or in boxes under your bed. Just removing these heavy items will instantly make your home feel less smothering and hot. Also replace heavy drapes with lighter curtains. Sheers work wonderfully in summer, as do lace curtains.

You might consider painting your walls if it still feels like you are trapped in winter’s embrace. Lighter colors help the sunlight to reflect throughout the room. If you have dark paneling, consider painting over it, or even changing it altogether to a lighter color. Dark colors are associated with warmth, and during the hot summer months, the goal for your home décor should be cool. Choose cooler colors when decorating with pillows, curtains, even flowers. Blues, greens, and whites are cool colors that will take away from the blistering heat outdoors. Be sure to let the sunlight in, but also be certain that you are not driving up your cooling bill. Mini blinds and shades work wonderfully, not only as a lovely window treatment, but also to help block out the suns rays when they are at their hottest.

Doing just a few simple things around your home can prepare you for summer, as well as add much needed color to your décor.