Though it is ideal to be able to move out while your kitchen is receiving a much-needed makeover, it is not always possible to do. If you are going to be living at home while a kitchen renovation is going on, you will need a game plan to deal with the stress, noise, and mess that renovations can bring. With these tips and tricks, we hope you will be able to make your live-in kitchen renovation as comfortable as possible.
Before You Begin
Before the actual renovations begin, you will need to empty all of your kitchen shelves, cupboards, and junk drawers. Packing away the entirety of your dishes, cookware, and utensils can be overwhelming, so it is helpful to store like items together and to label them clearly. Consider thoroughly what utensils you will be needing during the renovation and set these aside to avoid digging through your pile of boxes later. If you are unsure if you will be needing an item, make sure to keep it in a box that is easily accessible, just in case.
Plan Ahead
It is important to have a clear and concise plan of what work will be done and what the project’s timeline looks like. If you are hiring out the renovation work, make sure to talk with your contractor about their work schedule. If the drilling and banging is going to begin before your alarm, it is good to have a heads up. Plan your parking situation for any work trucks, dumpsters, or workspaces that will be necessary for your renovation. This is also a good time to communicate your preferences and expectations to your contractor to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
Keeping Clean
When working against demolitions and renovations, your regular cleaning routine does not stand a chance against the additional mess your home will be facing. Setting up dust barriers around your kitchen can help contain the mess and prevent dust and debris from travelling to other rooms. If you are unable to hang dust barriers, furniture covers are a great way to keep your furniture dust-free during renovations. Regularly checking and cleaning your air ducts is also important to ensure proper air flow and cleanliness.
Your Cleaning Schedule Should Include:
- Dust Daily
- Sweep/Vacuum Floors
- Dust and Wipe Down Temporary Kitchen
- Wash any Used Dishes
- Be Mindful of Construction Mess (Debris, Wood, Paint Cans, Nails, Tools, etc.)
Dining In & Dishes
If you plan on eating at home, it is helpful to set up a temporary kitchen in another room of the house. Hook up your refrigerator in the garage or other suitable space to store your cold foods. Microwaves, Instant Pots, and air fryers are great alternatives for cooking with an oven and stove. With their help, you will still be able to make nutritious home cooked meals for you and your family.
Chances are, you will be hand washing dishes during your kitchen renovation. We recommend using disposable plates and cutlery to avoid the stress of dishes piling up without the help of your kitchen sink and dishwasher. If you prefer to use real plates and silverware, make sure to wash as you go or use a portable sink to collect dishes in until you can get to them.
Your Temporary Kitchen Can Include:
- Microwave
- Hot Plate
- Electric Kettle
- Air Fryer
- Toaster Oven
- Crock Pot
- Outdoor Grill
- Disposable Plates and Utensils
- Regularly Used Seasonings and Spices
- Refrigerator Access
Weather Wise
If possible, plan renovations for warmer weather during Spring or Summer. The longer days mean more daylight hours to work in. If the weather is fair, open windows are a great source of ventilation for the dust and debris that will be floating around during a renovation. Renovating during the warmer season also gives you the option to cook homemade meals outside on the grill, stone oven, or over the fire. Having the option to cook and eat outside will help make up for the temporary loss of your kitchen.
Take Time
Kitchen renovations can be stressful. This is why it is important to check in with yourself regularly and take time to breathe. If it feels like the work will never be done, keep track of what has been accomplished each day. Taking daily progress photos is a great way to visualize progress. Soon enough the renovations will be over, and you will be left with your beautiful new kitchen! Starting with a clean slate, you will get to reorganize, decorate, and add finishing touches to the kitchen of your dreams!