Smart Home Device Setup: Using Multiple Routines

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/ June 26, 2025

In this quick guide, we’ll show you how to change your smart light’s color using the Alexa app to set the mood or improve visibility for specific tasks. Whether you’re new to smart home technology or supporting someone who is, this step-by-step guide is here to help. Plus, we’ve included a YouTube video tutorial for extra visual support.

On the left side, a close-up of an Amazon Echo pointing to a ThirdReality Door Sensor on the left and Sengled Zigbee Smart Bulb on the right with glowing highlight in background. Below it reads: "Where it's AT - The Ability Tools Blog," "Using Multiple Routines" and "AbilityTools.org". On the right side, a blurred background with a house icon surrounded by (clockwise): light bulb icon, temperature icon, washer icon, TV icon, lock icon, cloud icon, security camera icon, plug icon. The lightbulb and lock icons are highlighted.

Click here for the YouTube video guide

Before Setting Up Multiple Routines

Before diving into creating multiple routines in the Alexa App, it’s important to make sure your smart devices are set up and ready to interact. This example shows how a door sensor and smart bulb can work together using two separate Alexa Routines to create a simple visual cue for door activity. When the door opens, the light turns green and when the door closes it will turn white. Make sure your smart bulb is already connected and renamed, and consider how you might layer in other elements (like reminders or sounds) to build daily support that fits your needs.

Routine 1: Light Turns Green when the Door Opens

To create a routine to have the light turn green when the door opens, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Alexa app
  2. Tap the “+” icon in the top right corner.
  3. Tap “Create Routine“. You will have the option to rename your routine.
  4. Time to add an event:
    1. Tap “Smart Home” icon
    2. Select “Door sensor“
    3. Tap “Open“
    4. Tap “Next“
  5. Time to add an action:
    1. Tap “Smart Home” icon
    2. Select “Lights”
    3. Tap “Set color”
    4. Tap color. In this case, it is Green.
    5. Select “Save“

Routine 2: Light Turns White when the Door Closes

To create a routine for the light to turn white when the door closes, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Alexa app
  2. Tap the “+” icon in the top right corner.
  3. Tap “Create Routine“. You will have the option to rename your routine.
  4. Time to add an event:
    1. Tap “Smart Home” icon
    2. Select “Door sensor“
    1. Tap “Close“
    2. Tap “Next“
  5. Time to add an action:
    1. Tap “Smart Home” icon
    2. Select “Lights”
    3. Tap “Set color”
    4. Tap color. In this case, it is White.
    5. Select “Save“

Your multiple routines are now set. Whenever the door sensor is opened, the light will turn green. Once the door closes, the light will turn white.

You can also explore our full Smart AT Home Blog Series for more helpful tips. Be sure to check out the complete Ability Tools YouTube Smart AT Home Playlist for additional how-to videos and resources.

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