Oh, the opinions are flying today! See 'em? Love 'em? Hate 'em? These are the top ten movies we think every homemaker should watch.

Get luxury linens from our friends at American Blossom Linens and save 20% with code TOP20: https://americanblossomlinens.com

Clean, CLEAN with Branch Basics! https://branchbasics.com/ Coupon code HOMEMAKERCHIC

Décorate your home with French antiques just in from Paris at Everyday Château https://www.everydaychateau.com/

Want to skill up in the kitchen? Visit cook.theelliotthomestead.com for 5 new recipes and tutorials a month!

Follow up on YouTube for FULL Videos:
https://www.youtube.com/@homemakerchicpodcast (Please note episodes can run up to a couple weeks late on Youtube.

Follow us on Instagram
https://instagram.com/homemakerchicpodcast

Support the show on Patreon and get digital downloads of both our cookbooks!
https://www.patreon.com/homemakerchicpodcast

Set real cleaning aside. Code red! You've got 15 minutes until someone walks in your front door. What do you do?

Top Ten Ways to Fake a Clean House in 15 Minutes

1. Light a Candle (or Two)

• 
  Instantly changes the mood — cozy, intentional, welcoming
  
  
  
• Distracts from dust, clutter, or pet smells
  
  
  
• Choose scents that smell clean (citrus, linen, herbs) rather than heavy perfume
  
  
  
• Bonus: dim the lights a bit — candlelight hides a multitude of sins
  
  
  
  

2. Clear the Entryway

• 
  First impression zone — it matters most
  
  
  
• Scoop up shoes, boots, coats, and bags — toss into a basket/closet
  
  
  
• Straighten the rug, sweep quickly if needed
  
  
  
• Even a vase of grocery store flowers makes it feel “ready for company”
  
  
  
  

3. Wipe the Bathroom Sink and Swap the Hand Towel

• 
  Guests almost always use the bathroom — it’s a giveaway space
  
  
  
• Wipe toothpaste, water spots, and fingerprints off sink and mirror
  
  
  
• Replace hand towel with a fresh, clean one (even if from the linen closet)
  
  
  
• Quick check for toilet paper roll and a candle in the corner = instant polish
  
  
  
  

4. Fluff the Couch Cushions and Toss on a Throw

• 
  Messy sofa = messy house in people’s minds
  
  
  
• Quick karate-chop the pillows (design trick: makes them look plumped)
  
  
  
• Smooth cushions and throws — or just throw a blanket over a problem spot
  
  
  
• Adds a “styled on purpose” look in seconds
  
  
  
  

5. Do the Dishes Dash

• 
  Clear sink is visual shorthand for “I keep a clean house”
  
  
  
• Load dishwasher fast — no sorting, just stash
  
  
  
• No dishwasher? Dirty dishes into oven (yes, it works — just don’t forget them!)
  
  
  
• Wipe sink basin — shiny sink distracts from messy counters
  
  
  
  

6. Vacuum Lines — Even If You Don’t Vacuum the Whole House

• 
  Guests see the living room rug first — run the vacuum in a grid
  
  
  
• Visible lines = fresh clean illusion, even if dust bunnies are still hiding
  
  
  
• If no time for full vacuum, at least hit high-traffic spots (entry + living room)
  
  
  
• Sound of vacuum running before guests arrive also works psychological magic
  
  
  
  

7. Corral the Clutter

Get luxury linens from our friends at American Blossom Linens and save 20% with code TOP20: https://americanblossomlinens.com

Clean, CLEAN with Branch Basics! https://branchbasics.com/ Coupon code HOMEMAKERCHIC

Décorate your home with French antiques just in from Paris at Everyday Château https://www.everydaychateau.com/

Want to skill up in the kitchen? Visit cook.theelliotthomestead.com for 5 new recipes and tutorials a month!

Follow up on YouTube for FULL Videos:
https://www.youtube.com/@homemakerchicpodcast (Please note episodes can run up to a couple weeks late on Youtube.

Follow us on Instagram
https://instagram.com/homemakerchicpodcast

Support the show on Patreon and get digital downloads of both our cookbooks!
https://www.patreon.com/homemakerchicpodcast

Adding touches of luxury to our homes keeps us inspired and interested in our day-to-day routines.

Top 10 Simple Ways to Add Luxury to Your Home

1. Create a Spa-Like Bathroom Experience
Transform your bathroom into a peaceful retreat by adding elements that evoke luxury and relaxation. Consider installing a rain showerhead or a deep soaking tub. Invest in plush towels and a soft bath mat, and don’t forget a few indulgent products like high-end bath oils or body scrubs. Soft, ambient lighting and candles will create a soothing atmosphere, making it feel like your very own personal spa.

2. Use Rich Fabrics Like Velvet and Silk for Curtains and Pillows
To instantly elevate the feel of any room, incorporate luxurious fabrics like velvet, silk, or linen. These materials add a tactile richness that is both opulent and comfortable. Consider velvet throw pillows, silk curtains, or a plush velvet throw for the sofa. These fabrics help to bring sophistication to both modern and traditional interiors.

3. Install Dimmer Switches for Softer Lighting
Lighting plays a huge role in creating a luxurious atmosphere. Install dimmer switches in your living and dining rooms, as well as in your bedroom, to adjust the light levels depending on the mood. Soft, diffused lighting is more flattering and relaxing. Pair with elegant table lamps or chandeliers to add both form and function.

4. Upgrade Your Bed with Luxury Linens and Pillows
The bed is the centerpiece of any bedroom, and upgrading it can make your entire room feel like a five-star hotel suite. Opt for high-thread-count sheets, preferably in natural fabrics like Egyptian cotton or linen. Add a plush duvet or comforter, and layer your bed with quality throw pillows and a velvet or cashmere blanket for extra comfort. Don’t forget to invest in a luxurious mattress topper for added support and softness.

5. Make Your Home Smell Luxurious
A signature scent can instantly elevate your home’s ambiance. Invest in high-quality candles with warm, sophisticated scents like sandalwood, jasmine, or amber. Scent diffusers with essential oils are also a great option for continuous fragrance. For an extra touch, consider using luxury room sprays or incense to create an inviting, sophisticated atmosphere.

6. Add Gold or Metallic Accents to Your Decor
Gold, brass, and other metallic finishes can add a touch of glamour and sophistication to any space. Consider adding gold picture frames, metallic trays, or brass lamps to your living room or entryway. Small metallic accents can help elevate a neutral space without overwhelming it, bringing a sense of opulence and timeless style.

7. Create a Stylish Home Bar or Coffee Station
A well-curated home bar or coffee station can be a functional yet luxurious addition to your home. Invest in quality glassware, a stylish cocktail s

Get luxury linens from our friends at American Blossom Linens and save 20% with code TOP20: https://americanblossomlinens.com

Clean, CLEAN with Branch Basics! https://branchbasics.com/ Coupon code HOMEMAKERCHIC

Décorate your home with French antiques just in from Paris at Everyday Château https://www.everydaychateau.com/

Want to skill up in the kitchen? Visit cook.theelliotthomestead.com for 5 new recipes and tutorials a month!

Follow up on YouTube for FULL Videos:
https://www.youtube.com/@homemakerchicpodcast (Please note episodes can run up to a couple weeks late on Youtube.

Follow us on Instagram
https://instagram.com/homemakerchicpodcast

Support the show on Patreon and get digital downloads of both our cookbooks!
https://www.patreon.com/homemakerchicpodcast