10 Small Changes That Can Make Your Home a Happier Place

Here are some little changes you can make in your home this year that will have a big impact.

1. No Devices at the Table

Disconnect while eating together as a family. Bright screens will inevitably be a distraction and will inhibit good conversation and discussions throughout your meal.

2. Keep the Toilet Seat Down When Not in Use

Save the next person from falling in. Plus, it will just make your bathroom look more pulled together.

3. Make the Bed Every Morning

Make it a habit to start your morning by accomplishing this task. What seems like a simple chore can actually set you up for a more productive day.

4. Dirty Stuff Goes in the Hamper

Piles of dirty clothes around the house create chaos before bedtime. Professional organizer, Erin Rooney Doland, recommends getting ready for bed an hour before you plan to go to sleep so that you have the mental and physical energy to file away clothes. This way, you’re less apt to succumb to the floor drop.

5. Open the Blinds or Curtains

Natural light can immediately give your mind a boost of energy and help you get the day started on the right foot.

6. Wipe Bathroom and Kitchen Surfaces Immediately

Hard, dried food particles and old toothpaste chunks are not only gross, but are also harder to clean after they have been drying for some time.

7. Don’t Ask Where Something Is Unless You’ve Already Looked in the Logical Places

This is especially important to implement if you have little ones.

8. If You Use Something Up, Write It Down on the Shopping List

Were you the last one to finish the dish soap or laundry detergent? Save yourself from going without your needed supplies and make sure it’s purchased on the next run to the grocery store.

9. Dishes Get Washed After Every Meal, or At Least Before Bed

Waking up to a full sink of dirty dishes can cause bad smells and bugs. Make it a team effort so you can tackle the task together.

10. Fill Up What’s Empty

Don’t leave a finished roll of cardboard next to the toilet—change it out for a new one. You’ll save the next person aggravation on their bathroom break.

This article originally appeared on RealSimple.com