The front door is the first thing visitors see, and it sets the tone for the whole home. It is also what you look at when you come back after a long day. Yet it is often the least cared-for part of the house, with a tired mat, a few old leaflets and a bin standing next to it. A little attention can change that, and you probably have everything you need already.
Start with a clean, clear entrance
Sweep the step and wipe the door, the handle and the glass if there is any. A clean surface looks cared for even if the paint is a little worn. Clear away anything that does not belong, such as old flowerpots, broken toys or a pile of boots. Keep the step free so that nobody trips when they arrive, especially in the evening or in wet weather.
A doormat you already own can be moved to the front and shaken out. Make sure it lies flat and does not slip. Keep a tidy spot for wet umbrellas near the door, so the entrance does not look cluttered on rainy days.
Add light and something green
A plant by the door makes the entrance feel friendly straight away. Use a pot you already have, such as a large jug or a tin, and plant a herb or a hardy evergreen in it. Water it regularly and remove any dead leaves.
Outdoor light matters too. If you have a porch light, make sure it works and switch it on as it gets dark. A warm light on the door is welcoming to visitors and helps you find your key. Never leave a candle burning outside without supervision, and keep any decorations away from open flames.
A seasonal touch is enough. In autumn, a few branches with coloured leaves in a jug. In winter, a simple bunch of evergreen twigs tied with string. In spring, a pot of bulbs. These small things cost nothing but give the door a personality and make everyone who comes to the house feel that someone has thought about them.
