Do you enjoy taking the time to decorate your house? Maybe you plan out every detail, or just adjust your home’s look as the mood strikes. When the housekeeping is done and you’re ready to decorate, here are five decorating mistakes to keep in mind before you start:

Clutter catches your eye the moment you walk into someone else’s house, but you might be used to it in your own home. Try to look at your house as if you were a stranger visiting. What stands out? Where do you see clutter? Focus on those areas, and everything will look instantly better. 

Dirt, dust, and a dirty carpet are also things guests seem to see, so find some local cleaning services to help you out. A clean house looks instantly better.

If you have a design element you hate, don’t keep it because it’s popular or your friends enjoy it. It’s your house—you should be happy there with every aspect. If you hate something, get rid of it and replace it with something you do like.

No one wants to be stuck sitting in an uncomfortable chair, but sometimes people buy furniture without testing it. Take a minute in the store and have a seat—can you imagine sitting in it for a while? If not, look for something different.

Bright colors can be intimidating, it’s true. You don’t want your house to look mismatched or garish—at the same time, don’t be afraid to experiment! You can check the internet for ideas or consult with a friend who has a good eye for color to find the right combination that works for you.

First impressions matter, even in your house. Take those few steps in the door as an opportunity to introduce your house. Pick a few items that reflect your style and how you want your guests to see your home. 

For the full list of HGTV’s 25 Biggest Decorating Mistakes, click here!