Quick Updates That’ll Get Your Home Summer-Ready in No Time

If you live in a tiny walk-up apartment that doesn’t exactly scream “seaside living” or just don’t have the time (and money) to be conducting seasonal home makeovers, we empathize. As a team based in NYC, a city notorious for its minuscule apartments generally accompanied by exorbitant rent prices, it’s not like we’re painting our homes a sunny yellow or splurging on beachy linen sofas every time June rolls around.

Instead, we rely on smaller swaps that are easy—and affordable—to prep our apartments for warmer weather and still make them feel fresh again. Here are all the quick updates our editors are making in anticipation of warmer weather.

Lahaina Alcantara, Digital Photo Editor

When the summer heat and humidity starts to hit and New York City takes on certain swamp-like qualities, one of the first things I do after packing away my duvet is swap my plush bath towels for lighter (but still absorbent) bath sheets. Every thread counts when you’re trying to stay cool without that central A/C. My favorite are these simple waffle towels from Hawkins New York ($35).

Alyssa Clough, Social Media Editor

I love my linen duvet cover from Cultiver ($245-$275), so instead of swapping it for something lighter in the summer, I simply store the duvet and use the cover as a quilt-like comforter. This summer, I’m also looking for a cool, non-permanent way to display (not store) my cute summer clutches. Right now, I’m considering leaning them on my entryway table instead of hiding them away in my closet.

Kristin Limoges, Associate Lifestyle Editor

SPF, folks, ya need it. Sun is not your friend when it comes to aging gracefully. Mineral versions are so lovely now; if you haven’t tried one lately, give them another chance. New versions are getting truly excellent at naturally blending into all skin tones and lasting all day. I still love Farmacy Green Screen ($36), and Peter Thomas Roth’s brand new Max Mineral SPF 45 ($38) is super creamy and blends flawlessly.

Or, ya know what’s a brilliant summer switch? Powdered SPF, where you apply or re-apply mid-day and it acts as both a sunscreen and an oil-absorbing powder. I’m a big fan of SuperGoop Invincible Setting Powder SPF 45 ($30).

Hayley Squire, Email Marketing Manager

I’m getting rid of the black rug in my living room and swapping it for a bare floor (AKA nothing). I feel like with the warmer weather, my space will feel bigger and more airy without a dark rug on the floor. Plus, having to move my coffee table and vacuum a rug once a week is not my idea of a good time.

Mackenzie Dunn, Digital Editorial Intern

In anticipation of spending more time outside as the weather warms up, I’m looking forward to adding some bright, punchy outdoor pillows to the wrought iron bench that sits on my front porch all year long. It’s the perfect place to read and relax during summer months, and with weather-proof options like these jacquard pillows from Pottery Barn ($49.50), I can leave them out all season without worry.

Lydia Geisel, Digital Editorial Intern

I break things like nobody’s business, and drinking glasses are certainly no exception. When I’m barefoot by the pool or at a barbeque during the summer I don’t want to have to worry about knocking over my cup and sending myself (or a small child) to the ER with glass in their foot, so I’ll be swapping out my go-to wine glasses and other sharp entertaining essentials for chic, outdoor-approved alternatives. These colorful glasses from Target ($2.99) are a great affordable option.  

Elly Leavitt, Associate Digital Editor

Plants! Now that there’s no chance of any greenery I bring home withering and dying within a matter of days, courtesy of frostbite, I’m trying my hand at a green thumb. Since I don’t have the best track record with keeping things alive, I’m thinking I’ll start small with something super low-maintenance. The resilient ZZ plant seems like a good first purchase. The Sill has a ZZ plant ($51) that ships in a simple, peach-colored planter I particularly love.

See more smart swaps our editors are making:

Easy Decor Swaps We’re Making to Elevate Our Homes The 8 Items That Totally Transformed Our Homes Easy Kitchen Swaps That Really Make a Difference

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