The kitchen is good place to start your home update. Everyone gathers here for meals and everyday living, so it takes a lot of abuse. Fortunately, it's easy to give the kitchen a new lease on life.

For example, look at your cabinets: Are they grimy and falling apart? Replace them or reface them. Try a lighter or darker wood tone or try painting them a vibrant color or a pure white. You may consider replacing the solid doors with clear or frosted glass. (Just make sure the cabinet's contents are neatly organized.)

Also consider the kitchen lighting. Replace the fluorescent lighting with standard lighting for a warmer look. Consider recessed lighting or track lighting to add some style. If your flooring is warped and stained, consider installing laminate flooring or even just putting some mats or area rugs down to warm up the look. Put in a bench where family members can put muddy boots and coats. The are seemingly endless.

The kitchen is not the only room that could use some spicing up. How is your living room? There are some very easy ideas to help it look its best: Try changing the window treatments. If you can't afford a new sofa, try slipcovers. There are many styles available that will make a dramatic difference in how your furniture looks. Cover your worn carpeting with a beautiful area rug or replace the whole carpet with hardwood flooring or laminate. Use baskets and shelves to stash books, toys and hobby supplies.

The bathroom is another room in which to make easy, dramatic updates. Replace the fixtures with stylish new ones. You will be impressed at the change. Repaint the room, but be sure to use paint designed for humid conditions. Add candles and new, fluffy towels in luxurious fabrics and soon the bathroom will be your favorite room of the house.

Even though few may see your bedroom, it is important to keep it looking its best. Invest in new linens and window treatments. Make sure there is adequate storage for your clothes and shoes. Get a hamper to put all your dirty clothes. Invest in soft lighting to make your bedroom a relaxing oasis.

In every room of the house, one easy but important way to perk it up is to control clutter. Get rid of all the junk and you will see how much better everything looks.

These are just a few of the easy, inexpensive things you can do to improve the look of all the rooms of your home. Try some of them and see how much better you feel about home sweet home.