The final Mercury retrograde of 2025, which begins on November 9 and rolls through to November 29, is back – and it’s coming for your home.
If your appliances have suddenly developed a mind of their own or your renovation timeline has gone completely haywire, you might be tempted to blame Mercury. And honestly? You wouldn’t be wrong for doing so. But that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s time to panic. Despite the chaotic connotations, it’s also a powerful opportunity to reflect, refocus and reconnect with that endless to-do list.
From renovation mix-ups to missing deliveries, here’s what not to do until the stars settle, plus, the easy tweaks you should be making.
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What happens to your home during Mercury retrograde?
What does Mercury retrograde mean?
Three to four times a year, the planet of communication, travel and technology appears to move backwards in the sky – a cosmic illusion known as Mercury retrograde.
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“As it rounds the bend, Mercury slows down and appears to stop (station) and spin backward (retrograde),” explain The Astrotwins. “Of course, it really isn’t moving backward, but much like two trains or cars passing each other, this creates the optical illusion that one (Mercury, in this case) is going backward.” And while some might roll their eyes, there’s a reason this period has a reputation for domestic disruption.
Mercury rules coordination, data, contracts and planning – which also happen to be the cornerstones of home life. Astrologers say it’s a time when plans unravel, details get missed and confusion overtakes calm. Whether you believe in the stars or simply enjoy a bit of celestial scapegoating, there’s no denying that homes tend to feel the chaos, too.
After all, ’tis the season when even the best-laid home plans, from contracts to decor choices, can go sideways. So if you’ve been thinking of repainting your house or signing off on a renovation, pause right there. Here’s exactly what to avoid and what to prioritise to keep mishaps to a minimum while Mercury is in retrograde.
What happens to your home during Mercury Retrograde?
Astrologically speaking, Mercury’s backspin disrupts clarity and communication – the same energy that governs emails, deliveries, trades, and even your Wi-Fi. So, when the planet slows down, you might notice everyday systems in your home follow suit. Think:
- Appliances breaking down without warning
- Deliveries lost in transit
- Miscommunication with trades or contractors
- General restlessness with your surroundings
It’s not your imagination, or your interior design taste changing overnight. It’s simply the universe urging you to slow down, double-check, and resist impulsive moves
What not to do during Mercury Retrograde
Let’s start with the no-go zone. If Mercury is in retrograde, resist the urge to start anything new or large in scale. Avoid rushing big changes, focus on maintenance, and embrace the chance to reconnect with your home on a smaller, more meaningful level.
1. Don’t start big renovations
Communication errors are the hallmark of retrograde periods, which makes this period the worst time to commit to building works, extensions or large-scale projects. If it’s urgent, then remember to triple-check the fine print, confirm timelines in writing and build in extra time for inevitable delays.
2. Avoid major purchases
Large purchases, especially tech-heavy appliances or made-to-order furniture, are best avoided until Mercury goes direct. Returns can be tricky, warranties get misplaced and you may change your mind once the retrograde fog lifts.
3. Hold off on moving house
Leases, contracts and conveyancing rely on clear communication and precise execution – exactly what Mercury retrograde tends to scramble. Unless it’s absolutely necessary, try to delay signing any paperwork, or finalising a move until the retrograde comes to an end.
4. Don’t rush design decisions
If you’ve suddenly been hit with the urge to paint your entire house green, however much these projects might tempt you, give it a couple of weeks before taking the plunge. You might feel less attached to the idea once Mercury resets its path forward. Instead, stick to small, reversible home improvement updates for now.
What you should do during Mercury retrograde
This disruptive time can be seen as a cosmic stop sign, but it should also be treated as a sign to slow down. You can still do plenty around the house – albeit with a bit more focus.
1. Declutter and deep clean
Clearing out clutter aligns perfectly with Mercury’s introspective energy. Now’s the perfect time to tackle those overstuffed drawers, reorganise your pantry or finally get to deep clean the rooms you’ve been putting off for months. Not only will you lighten your space, but you’ll clear your mind in the process.
2. Finish half-done projects
Half-hung picture frames? Unfinished DIY jobs? Sure, now might not be the optimal time to start something new, but that’s not the case for those forgotten projects. Afterall, Mercury retrograde is all about renewing and reviewing – especially when it comes to easy design updates that may have taken a back seat.
3. Mercury-proof your tech
Because Mercury also rules the transfer of information, it’s important to mitigate any potential effects of the signal-jamming cycle. Back up your digital data or sensitive information such as photos, files and even passwords and keep spares of chargers and bulbs. Small steps now, like servicing the washing machine and checking smoke alarms, can prevent bigger headaches later. If Mercury’s going to meddle, at least you’ll be ready.
4. Refresh your energy
Introduce plants, open the windows, swap your lighting or burn your favourite candle. Little changes like swapping out your cushions and changing your bedding can do wonders for your mood, and they’re risk-free. These low-commitment tweaks satisfy the urge to change things up without risking regret later.
When the retrograde ends, you’ll likely feel the fog lift. That’s when it’s safe to revisit the projects you put on hold, with a clearer head and sharper focus. Recheck your contracts, confirm budgets, and only move forward on what still feels right.
The good news? Anything you start once Mercury goes direct is likely to flow more smoothly — and with fewer cosmic interruptions.
