Learn 50+ things to do at home when you’re bored! From crafts to rediscovering old hobbies, you’ll find an idea you’ll love.
If you’ve ever felt stuck at home with time on your hands, this list is full of simple, enjoyable ways to pass the hours. Whether you’re caring for a new baby, recovering from illness, or looking after a loved one, slowing down at home can be productive, restorative, and even fun.
Having been homeschooled as a child and working from home for more than a decade, I’ve learned to fill my days with projects and hobbies that keep me engaged. That’s one reason I run a DIY home decorating blog — I picked up many practical skills while finding ways to entertain myself at home. Those skills come in handy whenever I need to make the most of a slow day indoors.
If you have other ideas, please share them in the comments below — I love hearing new suggestions!
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Things to do When You’re Bored at Home
1. Paint something. Painting a room, a piece of furniture, or an outdoor surface is satisfying and can refresh your space. Helpful guides include:
- How to Paint a Room in 5 Easy Steps
- Chalk Paint (A Beginner’s Guide)
- How to Paint An Outdoor Concrete Patio
- My Favorite Interior Paint Colors
If you can’t get to a store, you can even order paint online; many brands ship samples and full gallons.
2. Decorate for the season. Swap out small decor items, refresh textiles, or create a seasonal vignette. Look for inspiration in seasonal posts for spring, summer, fall, winter, and holidays.
3. Declutter your closet. Go through clothing, donate what you don’t wear, and reorganize the rest. Simple steps can make morning routines easier.
4. Call or FaceTime friends and family. Hearing a familiar voice or seeing someone’s face can brighten your day — pick up the phone instead of just texting.
5. Start an online exercise routine. There are countless free workouts and family-friendly videos available. Many fitness apps and platforms also offer free trials for streaming classes.
6. Listen to a podcast. Choose something light and entertaining or dive into interviews, true crime, or personal development, depending on your mood.
7. Read a book. Nonfiction or fiction — pick something that relaxes or inspires you. Some favorites include personal-development titles and practical reads about habits and home life.
Our Favorite Books for Kids:
- Sisters First
- Ramona and Beezus — great for reading aloud
- Amelia Bedelia
- Fly Guy
- Bob Books — for beginning readers
- Llama Llama Red Pajama
- Madeline
- When God Made You — or any book by Matthew Paul Turner
8. Start a blog. Share a hobby, craft, recipe, or design idea. If you enjoy writing or teaching, blogging can be a creative outlet and a way to connect with others.
- How to Start a Blog
- 15 Free Blogging Resources
9. Wash your windows. Clear glass can make your home feel brighter and more inviting.
10. Plan a future road trip or vacation. Research destinations, map routes, and set tentative dates to look forward to.
11. Create positive affirmations. Write a set of short, encouraging statements to read each morning.
12. Learn a new skill online. Sites like SkillShare offer classes in photography, watercolors, lettering, writing, design, and more.
13. Clean out under the sink. Sort supplies, dispose of expired cleaners, and reorganize for easier access.
14. Do a Bible study or personal devotional time. Slow days are a good opportunity for spiritual reflection or study.
15. Start a new TV series. Pick a light, uplifting show or binge a favorite comfort series. Popular picks include Friends, Schitt’s Creek, The Great British Baking Show, and Gilmore Girls.
16. Listen to a sermon or inspirational talk. Many churches and ministries post recordings online for easy listening.
17. Clean out your fridge. Toss expired items, wipe shelves, and reorganize to make meal planning simpler.
18. Make a craft. Try projects like photo transfers, bath bombs, wreaths, iron-on pillows, or DIY garlands.
- Photo Transfer Decor
- Bath Bombs
- Simple Wreath
- Pillow with Iron-On Transfer
- Wood Bead Garland
- Rag Garland
- Simple Vinyl Monogram
19. Play a board game. Gather the family for a classic or try a new favorite.
20. Cook or learn a new recipe. Experiment with flavors, bake something special, or perfect a family favorite.
21. Make a custom photo book. Services like ChatBooks make it easy to create yearly albums and preserve memories.
22. Write letters or cards to people who might feel isolated. A handwritten note can mean a lot to someone in assisted living or facing hard times.
23. Teach someone a new skill. Spend time showing your kids or a friend something useful you’ve learned.
24. Upcycle old candles into new ones. Melt and combine wax to refresh favorites with new containers or scents.
25. Make a bath bomb and enjoy a relaxing soak. Homemade bath products can be a soothing treat.
More Things to Do When Bored at Home
26. Take a walk around the block. Fresh air and movement clear the mind.
27. Work on your taxes or financial organization. Use the time to gather documents and get organized.
28. Set up a FaceTime playdate for the kids. Let them connect with friends while you supervise.
29. Have a dance party at home. Turn up upbeat music and move — it’s great for mood and energy.
30. Color. Coloring is calming for both children and adults; try adult coloring books or detailed designs.
31. Paint a picture. Acrylics, watercolors, or simple sketches — create something just for the joy of it.
32. Organize your junk drawer. Sort, discard, and group items for easier access.
33. Wash your curtains. Fresh, clean curtains brighten a room and improve air quality.
34. Start a journal. Gratitude and bullet journals are great ways to reflect and plan.
35. Organize apps on your phone. Create folders, remove unused apps, and streamline your home screen.
36. Treat yourself to a face mask.
37. Paint your nails.
38. Rearrange furniture. A new layout can make a room feel refreshed without spending money.
39. Write thank-you cards you’ve been meaning to send.
40. Set goals for the coming months. Use a planner or goal-setting system to outline small, achievable steps.
41. Buy or select new art for a wall. Rotating art or fresh prints can change a room’s vibe.
42. Start a small garden. Windowsill herbs or container plants are rewarding and easy to maintain.
43. Dust and care for indoor plants. Wiping leaves helps them photosynthesize better and look their best.
44. Make an appointment you’ve been postponing. Dental, medical, or personal care appointments are worth scheduling now.
45. Teach your dog a new trick. Short training sessions build skills and strengthen your bond.
46. Take an online course or learn a language. Many platforms offer free or paid lessons in a wide range of topics.
47. Put together a puzzle. Jigsaw puzzles can be meditative and rewarding to complete.
48. Build a fort with the kids. Use blankets and cushions for an afternoon of imaginative play.
49. Have a backyard picnic. Spread a blanket, prepare simple snacks, and enjoy fresh air.
50. Wash your makeup brushes. Clean brushes are healthier for your skin and improve makeup application.
51. Declutter and organize your pantry. Sort items by category, check expiration dates, and create tidy zones.
52. Listen to an audiobook. Audiobooks are a great way to enjoy stories while doing chores or crafting.
53. Watch a movie you’ve been wanting to see.
54. Create a home bucket list. Make a list of projects, recipes, and activities you’d like to try while you’re spending time at home.
I hope you found ideas here that inspire you. What would you add to this list? Share your favorites in the comments below — I’d love to hear them!
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- How to Start a Room Makeover
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