New year, sparkling clean house! After the holidays, many Louisville families enjoy starting the year with a fresh, clean home. Whether you’re cleaning for yourself or helping an aging loved one reset their space, these simple tips can help make homes feel cleaner, safer, and more comfortable.

A red cleaning bucket in the foreground filled with cleaning supplies, and a grey couch in the background.

Fragrance Without Flames

Consider switching to home fragrances that don’t require an open flame. Wax melts, candle warmers, plug-in fragrances, and home sprays are all great alternatives. For older adults in particular, forgetting a lit candle can be a safety concern. The highlights reducing fire and fall risks at home as an important part of supporting older adults’ safety and independence.

Don’t Mix Vinegar and Baking Soda

Vinegar and baking soda are often mentioned as a DIY cleaning solution, and many store-bought products use one or the other. However, mixing them together actually reduces their cleaning effectiveness. Using products as directed—or choosing a single, purpose-built cleaner—can help make routine cleaning more efficient and safer, especially for seniors who may be sensitive to strong reactions or fumes.

Reusable Cleaning Cloths

Reusable cleaning cloths are an easy, eco-friendly swap. They’re affordable, washable, and can even be made from old clothing or towels. Toss them in the laundry after use, and they’re ready to go again. Small, manageable routines like this can support comfort and independence as we age.

A clean and organized home plays a meaningful role in overall wellness. You may also find it helpful to read our related post on tips for healthy aging, which explores simple ways to support well-being at home.

Which of these tips will you try this year? Let us know below.

Written by Brigid Coffey