Get your home in shape for summer

The air of spring! This is the season when you can give your furnace a much-needed break.  Homeowners will need to make a summer checklist that includes much-needed repairs from the pool to the gutters, so that the warmer months will be a breeze.

Reopening your pool

It’s time to pull back the cover on your pool. You will need to inspect your cover, first. You’ll need to check if there is standing water on your pool cover. If so, do not attempt to move the cover as the water and debris could slip into your pool. If the water on your cover does dump into your pool, you will have to drain your pool. The best way to get rid of standing water is to pump it out with a cover pump.

Once you have safely removed the winter cover from your pool, you will need to test the pool’s chemical balance. It is best to call in a professional to obtain a water sample from as deep in your pool as possible to get an accurate reading. 

Once you have taken the necessary steps to make sure your pool is operable, you will need to make another checklist: pool safety.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is among the top 10 leading causes of death. As a result, you should make your small kids wear a wrist alarm. It looks like a watch, but it sounds when it gets wet. Otherwise, take time to invest in swimming lessons to prevent accidents. Plus, swimming is fun and great exercise.

Take a look at those gutters

The easiest way to check your gutter’s performance is to wait for a rainy day. You will need to check if the water is properly emptying from the downspouts. If water is overflowing at the edges of the gutters, it’s a strong sign that debris clogging the gutters or downspouts.

Most debris can be scooped out by hand or removed by a leaf blower. You could also flush the gutters with a garden hose to remove small particles and twigs. Use a plumber’s snake to clear stubborn clogs. Most importantly, if you are using a ladder, be sure to take safety precautions.

Inspect your trees

Your trees are an excellent reason for you to spend some time outdoors and give them a good visual inspection. You should check for fungus and rot. If a tree also has structural problems, such as split branches, there is a good chance that disease has taken hold. Lack of leaves, soft spots, and open wounds are all signs of trouble. If you notice any of these signs, you should call in an expert.

When it comes to your lawn, fortunately, you can let the sun and soil do the work for you during the spring. If you prepared your lawn over the fall season, now is the time you reap the benefits of your fall handiwork.

Summer is a time for warm memories and family fun. Take some time to make sure your home is ready for your own peace of mind.

How to be More Sustainable at Home

Do you ever find yourself reading about others committing to an eco-friendly lifestyle, and wonder how you can make a difference in your busy life? You don’t have to dramatically change the way you live in order to have a positive environmental impact, and it’s important to realize that every little bit you can do makes a difference. In the spirit of Earth Day, we’d love to share some ways that you can make a difference in your own home, and listed below are a few tips to help get you started….

Keep the Flow Low

You can conserve water easily by installing low flow options for your toilet, shower head and other faucets throughout your home, and save money in the process. While a standard toilet uses about 7 gallons of water per flush, a low flow toilet only uses 1.6 gallons per flush--which will help to significantly lower your water bills over time. Water conserving shower heads are a more affordable option, but will still save you a considerable amount of water, with only 15,000 gallons being used per person within a year. Not to mention the energy that you will save from not having to heat the reserves of water in your tank. You can find some great options at your local Home Depot!

Upgrade your Lightbulbs

There’s been some debate over which type of eco-friendly bulbs are better for your home, but if you haven’t already, consider switching to CFL or LED bulbs. This will have a positive impact on decreasing the carbon footprint of your home, while also being more cost effective. LED bulbs would be the best option, lasting longer than most bulbs and using about 10 percent of the power. Whichever option you choose will get your home one step closer to being a positive impact on the health of the earth! 

Use Green Cleaning Supplies

The cleaning supplies that you use in your home can have a direct impact on the quality of the air you are breathing in. Many generic cleaners have toxins and unwanted chemicals that pollute the natural air. Chlorine and Ammonia are two unhealthy ingredients that are widely used in store-bought solutions, and can cause skin irritation, headaches and coughing. There are many green, safer options that are readily available and approved by the EPA, or if you are a DIY person, you can make your own cleaners from simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda.

Bring in Earth Friendly Furnishings

Recycled and sustainable furnishings can be a great addition to any space, from rustic mason jar decor to investing in dining furniture made from recycled natural resources. There are so many companies today that create home decor and furnishings that are made with sustainability in mind. When you are looking to buy furniture for your home, make a note to ask about eco-friendly options and companies that have been certified by. the Sustainable Forestry Initiative(SFI). These companies create products that are made in a safe and intentional way, and are marked with a little green shield!

Unplug your Appliances

It seems obvious to many people that we should keep home appliances and lamps turned off when not in use because they can be wasting power and running up the electricity bill. What you may not realize, is that you may still be wasting energy if you leave them plugged in. This phenomenon is known as vampire power, or phantom load, which refers to the draw of electricity and energy from a product that is plugged in. It may take a little extra effort, but unplugging your devices and lighting pieces after you are done using them will lower your electricity bill, and in the long run decrease the amount of carbon dioxide being released into the air.

Cold Wash and Hang Dry

Washing your clothes with cold water will save the energy it takes to heat the water and is also easier on your clothes. You can also save some power by hanging your clothes on a clothesline or drying rack, rather than running them through the dryer. This win-win situation will save you money on electricity and conserve energy, while saving your clothes from dryer wear and tear.

Take your Banking Online

The days of paper statements and getting your bills in the mail are coming to an end--or at least they should be. Paying your bills online is an easier alternative to paying them through the mail, and making the switch to digital will cut down significantly on wasted paper and carbon dioxide pollution from driving to the bank. In fact, many financial institutions now even offer incentives to go paperless and do your banking online through their website or mobile app. However, when online banking, it’s especially important to defend your devices, connections, and accounts from cyber criminals seeking to use your information to commit identity theft.  So do your research, weigh all your options, and consider the web to help make things easier and environmentally conscious!

Path to the Sold Sign: Cleaning Tips Checklist for Home Sellers

When selling a home, it is important for homeowners to showcase their property's best features, thus impressing potential buyers. One of the best ways to truly impress home buyers when they walk through the door is with a properly staged home. One often-overlooked factor of home staging is maintaining a stunningly clean, fresh-smelling home. These cleaning tips help home sellers get everything ship-shape before the first showing.

Clutter

Deciding how to remove excess items can be difficult for sellers to determine, simply because the definition of clutter is so subjective. As a general rule, buyers prefer to see a beautiful home that is easy to imagine as their own. Clean, spacious rooms are the primary goal. Sellers should clear out anything that might look messy, and limit the amount of decorations that focus on their families. When in doubt, people should keep in mind that less is usually better than more.

Windows

A home’s windows have a way of brightening up the space, inside and out. Clean, sparkling windows with well-kept window treatments create an air of deep care for any buyer who enters the driveway. Windows should be sprayed clean and then wiped periodically on both sides to remove dirt or spots. Drapes may be easy to vacuum or take down for washing. Blinds and shades should be wiped or dusted regularly.

Kitchens

As one of the most-used rooms in the home, the cleanliness of the kitchen can send a strong message to future buyers. A spotless kitchen offers a lot of potential, even if it is not particularly large or recently upgraded. Every visible surface should be scrubbed well with the appropriate solutions and wiped down daily to prevent any future accumulation. The insides of cabinets and under the sink also require a thorough clearing and wiping.

Bathrooms

The bathroom is another part of the home where buyers expect only the best care. Bathrooms can also be difficult to keep clean, especially over weeks or months of regular showings. Like the kitchen, the bathroom needs every surface perfectly clean and dry for buyers to see. Using the bathroom’s ventilation equipment and wiping down wet surfaces with a dry towel will help to minimize signs of excess moisture.

Furniture and Flooring

Attending to fabrics and carpet, which cannot simply be wiped clean, may call for a different approach. Upholstered chairs and couches can hide crumbs or pet dander around and under the cushions. Vacuuming the furniture helps to eliminate the debris effectively. Carpeting should be shampooed, and then vacuumed daily to remove dust, dirt, and other particles that buyers might see.

Preventing Damage

Of course, it is possible to clean a little too ambitiously. Sellers should take care to avoid damaging any of the surfaces or fixtures in the home with the wrong kinds of cleansers or cleaning materials. Hard flooring like hardwood or tile may need special cleaning solutions to avoid staining the surface. Countertops made of granite and other natural materials might require designated cleaning products to reduce the likelihood of bleaching or scratching. Planning to keep each room generally clean from one day to the next cuts down on the chances of mistakes made in a hurry.

Invisible Cleaning Concerns

Although buyers rely most on their sight to determine if a home is properly clean, they use other senses to get a feel for the space, as well. Odors, however faint, may make a buyer think that a home has issues hiding beneath the surface. Sellers should ask an objective party, such as their real estate agent, to identify odors and make a plan to correct them. The best solution to an odd scent in a room is to remove the cause. People may benefit from looking for long-term solutions to problem odors like pet smells, mildew, or mold.

Cleaning a home is actually an ideal way for sellers to maximize their resale value and gain buyers’ interest quickly. By following these cleaning tips during their preparations, people can simplify the home selling process and exceed buyer expectations from the first day.

7 Ways to Clean your Home with Smart Gadgets

Who doesn’t want to have a clean and sparkling home??? This not only improves one's wellness but also enhances the mood and gives a sense of pride. However, some people see cleaning as a frustrating task to be accomplished since it is tiring and time-consuming. Good thing there are helpful tools that can make cleaning a lot easier and bearable. Read on and learn some of the state-of-the-art gadgets that you can use in cleaning your home.

1.    Smart Sweeping Ball

The Smart Sweeping Ball is the best solution to light cleaning tasks such as sweeping the floor. It is usually made from a microfiber material that allows better absorption of dust and dirt particles. This also comes with a built-in sensor for detection and obstruction prevention. The Smart Sweeping Ball is good for everyday use and as a bonus works well in entertaining your pets at home especially cats.

2.    Magnetic Window Cleaner

The Magnetic Window Cleaner helps you to easily wipe your dusty panes and windows. Forget about those days when you suffered from muscle aches due to the use of newspapers in cleaning. This electronic gadget effectively cleans your windows by just simply wedging and moving the magnetic pads places on both sides of your windows. The Magnetic Window Cleaner is a perfect tool for flats and elevated units to ensure safety while cleaning.

3.    Smart Robot

The Smart Robot is the perfect answer to your dusty and dirty floors. It is an automated machine that allows you to vacuum or mop your floors depending on the degree of dirt and stains. This can be used in different types of floors including tiles, stones, and wood. The Smart Robot is a must have to get mopping done without putting too much effort on your part.

4.    Spot Clean Carpet Cleaner

The Spot Clean Carpet Cleaner is the answer to your carpet and hard surface needs. This gadget easily cleans and tackles the dirt, hair, dust, and other debris present on your carpet and floors. It can navigate your entire home and even conquer every area to ensure that everything is perfectly cleaned. The Spot Clean Carpet Cleaner can intelligently return to its self-charging dock when the task is already done.

5.    Robotic Vacuum Cleaner

The Robotic Vacuum Cleaner works perfectly better than humans. This intelligent tool can stretch and crawl even in hard to reach areas and corners of your home. Despite its small size, this vacuum can work efficiently and effectively. The Robotic Vacuum Cleaner allows you to clean your house by just simply clicking and controlling buttons from your phone.

6.    Sanitizing Wand

The Sanitizing Wand is a tool that will totally burn off the germs in your home. It kills the microscopic organisms present in a matter of seconds using the UV light technology. This easy to use gadget can also help wipe-off odor-causing bacteria present in surfaces such as in your kitchen countertops and bathroom sink. The Sanitizing Wand is a must-have for sensitive people and those suffering from allergies since it doesn’t use any harsh chemicals.

7.    Neato Botvac

The Neato Votvac is a powerful tool that efficiently cleans large areas of your home. It can track down and deep clean twice as many dirt, allergens, and hair strands present no matter where they are hiding. This is also equipped with smart navigation and mapping system to ensure a more efficient path. The Neato Botvac series is equipped with an advanced technology and continuous updates are being done to ensure better home cleaning at all times.

With the fast pacing and busy lifestyle, people tend to lack time in doing the basic tasks such as cleaning. True enough, the development of smart and innovative gadgets have helped a lot to ensure a clean home despite the busy schedules. There are numerous products available that will surely fit you and your needs. Check them out and see these product reviews for better guidance and information towards a healthy and better life.

5 Must-Have Cleaning Tools for Every Home

Every home must have certain cleaning tools; hardworking tools that will help the cleaner get the job done quickly and efficiently.

There is no doubt that if you don’t have home cleaning tools or if you don’t keep your home clean, it will expose the inmates to health hazards and may discourage few friends, colleagues and associates from visiting.

The beauty of having these must-have home cleaning tools is that they will enable you to manage, organize, and stay on track daily, weekly, monthly and annual cleaning assignments.

Thus, you will never regret having these cleaning tools. In this article, we will be sharing 5 essential cleaning tools that will make your home have a sparkling look. The ideas discussed in this article have been tested and highly trusted.

 Take time to read this article, and abide by the principles mentioned, they will surely help to keep your home clean or in a top form. Here are the best cleaning tools you need to have in your home today:

Broom, dustpan and mop

This is very important because if you have any hard surfaces like linoleum, cork, tile and wood, then you will need a broom, dustpan and mop to get them clean efficiently and on time. One of the best reasons why people use dustpans is because it enables them to clean all kinds of spills, or dirt in their homes.

Scrub brush

Cleaning your home with a simple cloth or sponge is good for simple stains, but it is not the ideal especially if you want to clean tough stains. You need to invest some funds in getting a scrub brush with a grip handle.

One of the reasons why this is good is because it is easier to hold as well. Scrub brushes can be used to clean the walls of your shower, bathtub, grout on the floors, and sink. Always look for a medium sized one, which can perfectly clean those hard to reach corners.

Spray bottle

Spray bottles is one of the things you really need to keep around your home always. So that, if you have to rinse anything in your home, you can use spray bottle successfully anytime, any day without stress.

Microfiber cleaning cloths

It is important to have microfiber cleaning cloths- they are as important as having white towels.

It could be super helpful to keep them in your home at all times. With microfiber you can keep the surfaces clean with just a little water. It won’t scratch or leave streaks behind.

Vacuum cleaner

You need vacuum cleaners around your home- these machines will help in keeping allergies at bay and floors clean. If you don’t have this machine, it might be extremely difficult for you to keep your home sparkling.

If you browse through the internet, you will read many amazing stories shared by users on how vacuum cleaners have helped them to keep their homes in a top form. Thus, the importance of having vacuum cleaners in your home can never be overemphasized.

Even if you don’t have money to buy other machines mentioned above, make sure you keep vacuum cleaner around your home at all times. You will never regret doing this.

Guide To Putting Your Garage In A Good Use (Even If You Don't Have A Car)

The humble garage is something found on most single family homes all across the United States.  At first mention, you might think of a damp, dusty and utilitarian space that serves little more purpose than storing your car or the past fifteen years worth of Christmas decorations you pull out at the end of November.  Not much thought goes into how else to utilize the space, unless you decide to get creative.  Why not repurpose your garage for something new and exciting?

We’ve put this article together in the hopes that it may inspire uses for that sad and dusty place called a garage that you may not have taken into consideration before.  Go ahead and read on about the ways to make use of your garage (that don’t involve storing your car) and see if it inspires you to try something new.

Image Credit: Elite Garage Door Of Lynnwood

1.       The Man Cave

Let’s start off with the most obvious one as it’s probably the one that you’ve heard of through TV, the movies, the radio or your friends.  The Man Cave is the be-all, end-all of personal space.  Whether you’re a sports nut, a rare collectible aficionado or the ultimate ‘geek’, the man cave is your place where you can be unapologetically YOU. 

With some simple fixes and elbow grease, you can lay down custom flooring to hide the ugly concrete beneath while providing some cushioning for your feet.  Deck out the walls with your favorite posters or display your rare collectibles while you lounge on that used sofa you bought from your neighbor’s yard sale and watch the big game on your Wall Sized smart TV.  There’s no limit to what you can do when you want your space to reflect who you are.

2.       The Workshop

A more practical use of the garage would be to utilize your space for a personal workshop.  If you have power tools and table saws, you’ll need all the space you can get to organize and arrange you space so that you can focus on what matters.  Utilizing custom shelving, you can have your materials at the ready to cut, rip, and sand down into whatever project you’re working on.  Just remember to have a good shop-vac handy to clean up the mess.

3.       The Personal Gym

Why spend your hard earned money on a fitness club every month when you can have one in your own home?  Lay down some high quality rubber flooring and setup your equipment for an efficient workout routine whenever you need it.  You can store your weights and loose equipment along the walls while leaving the main floor open for the heavy lifting stations and equipment that might be too bulky for the living room.

4.       The Recording Studio

Who doesn’t want to be a rock star, right?  With some acoustic tiles and creative use of black paint and hairspray, you can convert your garage into your own personal recording studio.  Jam out with your bandmates or lay down your demo tracks to upload to your website.  Even if you don’t play that often, you’ll at least have a space dedicated to your passion with all your favorite band posters cheering you on.

Daily practice is key to mastering any instrument so even if you just rock out on the weekends, your son or daughter in the school band will also have a nice space to practice without disturbing the rest of the house.  You could also setup your video camera and make quality content for your DIY YouTube channel if you wish.  The possibilities are limited only by your imagination.

5.       The Play Area

This is one application that often goes overlooked but can make a parent’s life easier.  Too often your little ones will run around the house and be at risk of tripping over power cables, running into hard coffee tables or otherwise hurting themselves.  Kids are active and they play with passion, but what if you had a dedicated space where they can expend that energy safely while protecting your great grandmother’s heirloom dinner plates from crashing to the ground?

The garage has plenty of space available for a playroom but you need to prepare it properly.  Putting up soft walls and laying down child friendly play mats are a must if you want a safe and functional playroom.  You can also get creative with storage bins for all the toys sure to be strewn about in the aftermath of a child’s wild imaginary adventures.  With some simple video camera setup, you can safely monitor your children from the next room if need be, though we would certainly recommend staying with them at all times.

You see, the boring old garage, once thought of as a place to store your car and your unwanted junk has so much more potential than most people realize.  You only need imagination, a budget you can stick to and a plan and you can convert your garage into something truly special!

Tips For Keeping Indoor Air Fresh When You Live With A Smoker

It’s true that can be hard to keep your house smelling fresh when you live with a smoker. 

So today, we will be sharing some tips on how to keep indoor air fresh when you’re living with a smoker.

1.     Find a good air purifier

An air purifier is one of the fastest and best ways to keep indoor air fresh when you’re living with a smoker. However, it is extremely important to educate yourself in this technology before you buy one.

Not all air purifiers are designed to get rid of smoke – in fact, most of them are designed to eradicate air pollutants and allergens. Therefore, it can be challenging to pick one that is particular to cigarette smoke and smell.

If you want to find the most logical choice for this particular agenda, checking air purifier recommendations for cigarette smoke and odor is a good place to start.

2.     Use natural ventilation

One of the most important things to remember on your quest to keep the indoor air fresh when you live with a smoker is not to yield to synthetic ways. Air fresheners and the like may provide you temporary relief, but they have long-term side effects that are synonymous with the harmful effects of nicotine itself.

In order to stay away from these “Volatile Organic Compounds” you should go for more natural hacks. You should open the windows to let in some fresh air every hour or so. You can even use sliced lemon pieces to get a natural citrusy scent in your homes. Or even a bowl of baking soda left in the relevant space can help eradicate the pungent smell of a cigarette smoke.

3.     Go for indoor plants

Trees and plants are nature’s own way of sucking out the pollution from our environment, and it’s also one of the best ways to keep indoor air fresh when you live in enclosed spaces.

According to studies, many houseplants are able to eliminate toxic agents from the air. Don’t fret if you live in small apartments or tall high rises – you simply need a nice, sunshine filled window sill and you’ll be set for life.

Some prime choices for such indoor plants include Snake Plant, Peace Lily, Chrysanthemum, Money Plant, Silver Vine and English Ivy.

4.     Recycling the air

If you feel like continuously opening your windows to let in ‘fresh’ air can bring in outdoor pollutants, then it’s time to get tech savvy. You can install trickle vents to better purify and cycle the breathing air in your homes. If this technology doesn’t seem like the right fit, then you can definitely go old-school with exhaust fans. They can continuously recycle the indoor air and are pretty long lasting to boot.

5.     Activated & Bamboo Charcoal

Many people are unaware of the inherent cleansing qualities of activated or bamboo charcoal. It’s a natural air purifier and features some highly absorptive qualities that are perfect for eradicating toxins from indoor air. So, if you live with a smoker and want to keep the air fresh in your home, then you can use activated or bamboo charcoal to absorb the nicotine toxins.

These are some small, but impactful tips, that can go a long way in keeping your indoor air fresh when you live with a smoker. Try them out today and see for yourself how much fresher your home can smell!

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Patrick Holmes
Patrick is an indoor air quality specialist at Home Air Quality Guides. His passion is to help people create cleaner, healthier and more comforting environments inside their homes by sharing expert advice that's easy to follow. He enjoys writing in-depth articles on air purification, household cleaning tips, home maintenance advice and more.

Home-Care Tips to Improve Your Air Quality and Well-Being

Image courtesy of Pixabay

Our homes should be places of respite and comfort, but sometimes they harbor hidden health or safety risks.  Thankfully, there are several ways you can improve the quality of your living environment for better health and well-being.  Here are some great tips. 

Allergens.  Allergens are a common issue for homeowners.  If you or a family member suffers with allergies, asthma, or hay fever, reducing allergens can be a huge step in improving your home environment.  Some experts suggest evaluating what each individual’s allergies are and taking steps throughout the home to reduce indoor triggers.

●      Flooring.  Carpeting traps allergens, so replacing it with smooth surface flooring such as hardwood, linoleum, or vinyl eliminates a big allergen burden.  If that isn’t feasible, choose a low-pile carpet, and shampoo frequently. 

●      Bedding.  Use synthetic products for bedding and enclose box springs, mattresses, and pillows in covers that are dust-mite-proof.  Wash bedding at least once weekly in hot water. 

●      Window coverings.  Choose window coverings that are easy to clean and don’t trap dust.

●      Windows.  Keep windows closed to reduce pollens and other contaminants, even during warmer months.  Use air conditioning to keep cool.  This will not only reduce incoming allergens but also help to reduce molds within the home.

●      Filters.  HEPA filters catch particles of dirt, pollen, and contaminants in your air, keeping the air cleaner.  Replace furnace filters with HEPA filters.  Adding air cleaners with HEPA filters and using a vacuum with a HEPA filter can also reduce allergens. 

Black mold.  Black mold can cause a number of health issues, but some professionals say removal is a task you can tackle yourself.  Begin by eliminating the source of dampness to the area where mold is growing.  Then seal off the area from the rest of your home to prevent the spores from traveling.  Wear a respirator and face mask and cover your skin, including your arms and hands.  Remove any mold you can see with detergent and a sponge.  Then disinfect the area and adjacent areas with a commercial-grade black mold product. You can find this at your hardware store.  Carefully wrap and seal all materials that came into contact with the mold and dispose of them outside the home.

Asbestos.  If you live in a house built in the 1970s or earlier, your home may contain asbestos.  Asbestos may be present in any number of materials such as:

●      Insulation

●      Linoleum

●      Flooring glues

●      Caulking materials

●      Plaster

●      Roofing materials

●      Siding

●      Paints

●      Paneling

According to professionals at This Old House, the presence of asbestos is not necessarily dangerous if the source remains in good condition.  However, damaged materials release fibers into the air, potentially causing cancer.  If you plan to remodel or you have other reasons for concern, contact an industrial-hygiene firm to make an inspection.  The firm will collect samples to be analyzed and then provide you with an action plan for mitigation if asbestos is present.  Also the same firm can reevaluate once the mitigation is complete.  

Lead.  If your home was built prior to 1978, the United States Environmental Protection Agency warns it likely contains lead paint.  Deteriorating lead paint is highly dangerous and can lead to lead poisoning.  Surfaces with flaking paint or damaged window sills, doorframes, banisters, or porches, especially if toddlers might chew the materials, should be addressed immediately.  A lead-safe certified renovation firm can address lead-related issues. 

Budgeting.  If your home may contain asbestos or lead, chances are you will want to have the issue addressed.  ImproveNet notes most homeowners spend between $211 and $6,298 nationally to address home safety concerns related to lead and asbestos removal and improved air quality. 

Your healthy home.  The last place you want to face health hazards is in your home.  By taking proper steps, you can improve your living environment.  Reduce allergens in your home, eliminate black mold, and hire a professional if you are concerned about asbestos or lead.  These tips will provide you with a healthier home and peace of mind. 

Top 5 Hacks to Keep Your Leather Sofa Spotless

Leather is one of the most durable and low-maintenance materials. That’s why leather sofas are such a great investment! Keeping your leather sofa, armchair, or ottoman clean is relatively straightforward. However, everything we use frequently needs a bit of care and love to keep up the good looks. Plus, accidents happen, and besides the regular cleaning and upkeep, things can get a bit more complicated when you have to deal with stubborn stains. 

So, how do you ensure your leather furniture looks as good as new no matter what disasters storm over it?

1. Vacuum First, Wipe Later!

Even though leather is a sturdy material, it’s porous and absorbs oils and dust. That’s why it’s important to get rid of dry dust and grime before anything else. When dust gets mixed with a cleaning solution or water, the cleaning can simply push it more deeply into the material! So, always use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment (hard one could scratch the leather) to eliminate dry dirt. Make sure you don’t miss all the intricate folds and crevices, especially if you have a recliner sofa with more complex construction.

2. Vinegar & Olive Oil Solution for Deeper Cleaning

On a regular basis, it’s enough to wipe the sofa with a dry cloth (preferably microfiber), it will collect the dust and any small smudges. For deeper cleaning, you can make your own money-saving solution! Mix together vinegar and olive oil in 1:1 ratio.

You can mix it in a small container or - better yet - put it in a spray bottle. The liquids have different consistencies so they will separate if left standing, so mix again or shake the bottle before every application! The vinegar gently cleans the material and the olive oil breaks up the stains while giving the leather a good oily nurture. To give your cleaner a nicer scent you can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil!

3. Baking Soda or Cornstarch Against Oily Disasters

Oily stains are inevitable, especially if you are used to munching the goodies in the cozy comfort of your couch. When such disaster happens, it’s best to act fast to avoid permanent staining.

Many people automatically reach for a wet cloth. However, water will actually help the oil to get deeper inside. So, forget about water! Instead, reach for a product that is handy, cheap, and natural - baking soda. Baking soda can do wonders on any stains greasy in nature. Simply sprinkle some baking soda on the stain and let it do its magic for a few of hours. If the stain is fresh, baking soda will absorb all the oil. Unfortunately, very old oil stains will require a professional cleaning.

4. Alcohol or Nail Polish to Fight Ink Stains

An ink stain on your sofa can be an unfortunate accident or an artwork of your creative offspring. It happens to all of us. But don’t worry, even though ink stains look menacing, the case is not lost! You can use alcohol or a nail polish and remove the stain fairly easily.

If the stain is fresh, first dab the affected area with a dry paper towel to remove any excess ink and save yourself a bit of work. Next, before treating the stain, apply the alcohol or nail polish on a hidden area. Strong concentration can cause discoloration. If this is the case, simply mix the solution with a bit of water. Better be safe than sorry. Rubbing alcohol is also good at removing mold and mildew!

5. Lemon Therapy for Stubborn Stains

Mixing a bit of fresh lemon juice with cream of tartar is the perfect treatment for stains that just won’t budge! Blend together equal quantities of both ingredients and create a paste, it will have a soft bleaching effect that will lift the stain. Apply the solution to the spot and let it sit at least half an hour. After, use a slightly wet sponge or cloth to wipe it off. After all, is done, use the oil-vinegar solution or a leather conditioner to keep the leather healthy and shiny!

About the author
Katie Porter is an aspiring writer, movie lover, and part of the team at Seatup. In her free time, she enjoys exploring her home state Colorado and plays in women's amateur rugby league.

5 Effective House-Cleaning Hacks from Professional Hotel Housekeepers

Who doesn’t want to keep their home clean and tidy? But, in the process of doing all the cleaning stuff often people end up wasting a lot of time and energy but still not getting the desired results.

Isn’t it? Well, if you are a house-owner then you must be certainly agreeing with me on this fact. Right? Yes! If you don’t know the right things to do while cleaning a house then your home won’t turn out to be as polished as you want.

But, the people who are being professionally trained in this work can definitely do all such cleaning works without much of a hassle. For example, if you remember your last vacation in which you stayed in a hotel and the way those housekeepers used to a make your room crystal clear in just fifteen or twenty minutes then you would certainly concur with me. Want to get some tips from such experts?

Then, here I am with a list of the same from some experienced housekeeping managers from the premium hotels around the world.

Just take a glance over!

1.      Soak up the wine spills in salt water

If by mistake, some wine spills over your rug or cushion then it doesn’t mean that a death knell for it has arrived. Usually, what people would do in such a scenario is panicking over the matter and rubbing the things with soap and water. But, do you know salt can be a boon for you then?

HomeZada cofounder Elizabeth Dodson says that if you just simply sprinkle some salt over the spotted area and then go back, listen to some music, or have a chat with your friends, then after sometime you would see that the salt has soaked up the wine.

2.      Keep parchment papers on your refrigerator shelves

The housekeeper of the famous hotel-brand ‘Go Cleaners London’ who is none but Harriet Jones says that when something like, say, tomato ketchup drips out of the bottle inside your fridge then it becomes a mess. But, you can be prepared for all such sudden small accidents while lining up your shelves with parchment papers. On doing so, you would take a really significant step towards keeping your refrigerator clean. If the things get messy then all that you have to do is to replace the liners with the new ones. That’s it!

3.      Don’t scrub the toilets

You don’t have to waste some of your valuable time always while scrubbing the toilet seats and pans in order to keep them clean. Instead, Molly Maid Meg Roberts said that if you just spend a few of your bucks on denture cleansing tablets such as the fizzing ones then you can keep your toilets clean very easily. Just drop one tablet and let it do its work! After it’s done, just flush off.

However, although to buy such cleansing products won’t be a too expensive episode for you but still you can browse through the websites like Dealslands and grab a lucrative coupon from any house furnishing store before making a purchase. On doing so, you could save some your precious bucks!!  

4.      Wear off your shoes in the entrance

The certified professional organizer Amy Trager believes that if you just keep a tray or mat at the front door of your house to prompt your guests so that they enter the house after taking the shoes off then it would be a great idea to keep your house clean. Yes! It is an undeniable fact that shoes bring a lot of dirt inside homes.

5.      Make a good use of the tea-remnants

Well, if you have a habit of starting your day with a cup of black tea then don’t enjoy it until the last sip. Instead, if you just save the last one or two tablespoons then you can use that to clean your bathroom mirror. Yes! Black tea and the tannin-acid in it can act as your best friend when it comes to cleaning your bathroom mirror, says Harriet Jones from Go Cleaners London again.

Final Thoughts

So, what are you waiting for? If house-cleaning seems to be a task which is no less than a nightmare for you then just change your mindset, and opt for these simple yet effective tips. I am sure you would be able to make your abode the cleanest, and coziest place to live in!!

Tips For Eco-Friendly House Cleaning

Cleaning your home is a never-ending battle. With so many people living there, it seems like you’re always picking up, vacuuming, and more. That’s all right, as the benefits of having a clean house make up for it.

However, modern cleaning supplies are often full of harmful, even toxic chemicals. And despite the fact that they disinfect surfaces, what are you leaving behind when you use them? That’s why there’s a growing movement in the U.S. for environmentally-friendly cleaning products. Read on to learn what to use instead of chemicals and how to keep your air clean this winter.

Don’t Wait For Spring Cleaning

Springtime is a great time for cleaning because people have been cooped up all winter, but fall is also a great time to clean — before winter weather keeps you stuck inside for several months. OrganizedHome.com has a great checklist of cleaning for fall.

For the inside, clean the common rooms first like communal bathrooms and living rooms. Start at the top and work your way to the floor, including vacuuming and, if necessary, carpet cleaning with eco-friendly materials. For the outside, wash the exterior windows, put away garden hoses, and clean patio furniture or outdoor toys before storing them in a shed or basement.

But cleaning doesn’t just mean disinfecting or getting rid of dirt — it can also mean decluttering and getting rid of unused belongings. Doing this in the fall is great, as you’ll be more organized and prepared for the approaching winter holidays.  Redfin has a great page with tips to help declutter, including what’s best to donate to different organizations like animal shelters or thrift stores. After all, reusing is a great way to be environmentally friendly.

Cleaning Without Chemicals

Being eco-friendly means avoiding harsh chemicals whenever possible. Thankfully, there are many natural ways to clean your home. Wellness Mama explains that you can make a scouring powder by mixing baking soda, salt, and Borax. Another all-natural cleaner is mixing vinegar with citrus peels. Let this sit for a few days then dilute it with water in a bucket or bowl. Use it to clean floors or disinfect surfaces.

Use baking soda on your oven to get rid of stubborn, burnt-on stains. For drains, pour some baking soda and white vinegar down the drain, then cover over the drain with a kitchen towel. Let this soak in for a few hours before rinsing them with hot water.

Keeping The Air Clean

Since you’ll be inside so much this winter, it helps to find an eco-friendly way to clean the air. That means skipping the aerosol sprays or chemically-laden scented candles. Instead, buy some plants.

As Greatist explains, plants act as filters by taking in carbon dioxide and even particulates swirling around in your home’s air. Then they replace both with oxygen. Some of the best plants for this include spider plants, peace lilies, ferns, and snake plants. Plus, these are typically easy to care for inside your home, helping them last longer in case you don’t have a green thumb.

If you want really want a scent in the house, you can also create an all-natural air freshener. In a saucepan, add water, a sliced lime, and some thyme. Then set the pan on a low simmer and let the evaporation make your house smell wonderful.

Skip Chemicals And Have A Clean Home

Our ancestors lived without spray bottles filled with harsh chemicals, so why can’t you? Stock up on some baking soda, vinegar, and citrus to make your own eco-friendly cleaning supplies. Once you’ve decluttered the house and added some plants, you can get some fall cleaning done so your home is ready for everyone this winter.

Do It Yourself or Hire a Professional?

(Photo Credit: Pixabay)

A homeowner’s ingenuity can truly be both an asset and a hinderance to a home, as well as those who live in it. To be self-reliant in one’s own home is a source of pride, and as we all know, the learning process never stops. On top of that, it’s never fun to have haughty plumbers, electricians, or handymen jack up their labor prices because of your lack of expertise. 

For both big and small jobs, labor costs have escalated in recent years. Those high costs are a tremendous burden for homeowners, especially new homeowners who are just getting their feet under them. Most comprehensive guides explain how choosing the right projects, doing your own cleanup, and dealing with the right contractor can be pivotal in saving big during your next job on your home.

However, do it yourself (DIY) can also occasionally be a viable option for you, given the right circumstances. If you are questioning whether to do a job yourself or hand it over to a professional, continue reading.

Do It Yourself?

Before deciding whether to do a job yourself, consider the following:

• Do you have the necessary skills? More importantly, does the job involve skills that require a permit (these will absolutely need the attention of a professional)? Try talking to others who have tried the project before. Extra opinions will be valuable to you.
• Ask what the costs will be for a professional to complete it. When considering a contractor’s costs, think about the portions of the jobs you can do. Then, compare the contractor’s cost with the cost for the DIY project.
• Evaluate both pricing options and the skills necessary to complete the job.

Obviously, a job completed yourself will result in far less money spent. Still, you should always consider the amount of skill needed. Some high-skill jobs, like electrical work, involve processes that require permits. In other cases, big jobs not done correctly can ruin your home. For instance, many major plumbing jobs can easily spring water leaks which can collapse a home over time.

Cleaning Up

Aside from actual work on a given job, most of what makes contracting labor so expensive is the extracurricular jobs involved with it. According to GoErie, you can save close to $200 per day by volunteering to remove any extra material left over from contracting jobs. However, always be sure of what the material is and whether it needs special care.

There are many smaller household tasks that can qualify as DIY, especially jobs that revolve around cleaning. These include seasonal cleaning of gutters atop the home and the scrubbing of moderate amounts of mold. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to have gutters and downspouts cleaned in Dallas is $124-$206 and takes five hours to complete. With the right tools and a little research, performing cleaning and maintenance tasks such as this helps you save on costs.

Safety

Should you as a homeowner decide to undergo a DIY project, the biggest concern about the job should be your own safety. You may be attempting to save a bundle on labor costs, but all that can become meaningless with enormous medical bills following an accident. Live wires, glass-filled insulation, and falling ladders are all potential obstacles.

Almost all DIY jobs involve some act that could put you in danger, so it’s important to consider how you might encounter injury during the job. In some cases, issues with safety may remove the DIY option entirely.

DIY is a great way to save money on otherwise costly home projects. Before deciding whether to perform the job yourself or hire a professional, make sure to consider if you have the skills to complete the job and how much money you’ll actually save, and always take your personal safety into account.

Caring For Your Granite The DIY Way

Granite kitchen countertops are a popular choice for many proud homeowners. Not only is granite a beautiful material to look at but it is also extremely durable and requires reasonably little maintenance. If you are looking for a material that can easily withstand high temperatures and resists a variety of stains when properly sealed, then granite is definitely the material to opt for. Although granite has plenty to offer it can, like any other countertop, exhibit signs of wear and tear after time making it imperative to care for your granite countertop in the correct way.

Sealing your granite properly will prevent it from soaking up liquids such as cooking oil, water and wine and although it can be rather pricey to reseal periodically it will contribute significantly towards extending the granite’s lifespan and boosting its appearance and give your home a clean and shiny appearance.

Caring for your granite must become a priority and cleaning your countertop will keep it sparkling and reduce grime buildup. How you clean it is very important as certain acidic materials can do your countertop more harm than good. Many store-bought granite cleaners are also very expensive which is why you should consider making your own, cost effective and perfectly safe granite cleaner.

Homemade Granite Cleaner

There's no need to feel overwhelmed at the thought of making your own cleaner. It is easier than you think and the ingredients are readily available in most households. You can also adjust the basic recipe as needed to suit your own preferences by simply reducing or increasing the amount of alcohol and experimenting with differently fragranced essential oils.

The Recipe

In a clean, dry spray bottle of your choice simply mix together the following:

• ½ cup of rubbing oil
• 6 drops dishwashing liquid
• 2 cups water
• 10 – 20 drops of essential oil (you can pick any scent you like with sandalwood and lavender both being popular choices)

Simply shake to mix and you are ready to go. Spray the liquid onto your countertop and gently wipe with a soft cloth such as those made from microfiber. Your homemade cleaner is also safe to use on other surfaces and appliances around the house because of its gentle nature.

While you are experimenting with homemade cleaners to find one that works best for you just remember to steer clear of the following:

• Household cleaners that contain harsh materials such as bleach, glass cleaners and domestic degreasers that can eat away at the sealant.

• Bathroom cleaners as they may contain abrasive substances that can scratch your granite.

Granite kitchen countertops are a long-term investment and with the proper care can last for many years. Granite is not a product that requires hour upon hour of maintenance and with just a small amount of effort you can ensure that your kitchen looks its best all the time.

Insane Breakfast Making Machines That Actually Exist

5 Genius Products for Making Breakfast

Americans love the various ways breakfast can be made and the flavors they can create with a few simple ingredients and a little know-how. Some people enjoy coffee and toast with their eggs, others love a good omelet and waffles. Here are five products that cook your entire breakfast with a single machine. 

Breakfast Burrito

Burritos are one food that you can tailor to breakfast, lunch and dinner. This Breakfast Burrito Maker streamlines that process and creates a place where you can warm the tortilla and cook the eggs to your liking.

Breakfast Sandwich Maker

The manufacturer of the Burrito Maker knows that people enjoy breakfast in many ways, so they also created a Breakfast Sandwich Maker. Whether you prefer a bagel, English muffin or a biscuit sandwich, this machine accommodates your love of bacon, eggs and cheese between bread of any sort.

Waffles and Omelets

Moving away from the breakfast to-go products, this machine goes a step further than your average waffle maker to create omelets as well. The Breakfast Express Waffle/Omelet Maker cooks a waffle and omelet at the same time, so you can serve hot food without leaving one to warm in the oven as the other cooks. If omelets aren't your thing, you can cook sausages or pancakes with this machine.

Master Toaster

From the simple toast and butter to eggs on toast, bread warmed to a crunchy golden brown is a huge part of breakfast. While most homes have a toaster or toaster oven, many do not have this Smart Breakfast Master Toaster. This little machine toasts your bread and cooks your eggs at the same time, and it can make poached, boiled or fried eggs. One great thing about the fried egg option is that the egg comes out in a square shape, perfect for a breakfast sandwich.

Breakfast Station

This is a mini diner for your kitchen, complete with retro styling. The 3-in-1 Family Size Breakfast Station brews up to four cups of coffee, toasts four slices of bread and sizzles eggs or bacon all at the same time. If you only have a small space, this might be a great way to get your toaster and coffee maker into one spot and cut down on the number of appliances you need. The addition of the griddle means you can think outside of breakfast and consider lunch or dinner options for this product.

Crisp Clean Winter Scents to Make Your Home Smell Good (That Aren't Candles!)

Winter is a time to bundle up in front of the fire, throw on a sweater or relax under a soft blanket. One of the best ways to enjoy the warmth of home during this season is to fill your home with wonderful scents and smells. While there are many ways to find the perfect candle smell, consider creating your own home scents without the candle.

Brewing a Potpourri

Winter and the holidays often go hand-in-hand, and the smells of this time of year can bring you back to old experiences and great memories. One excellent way to bring in some holiday cheer as you make new memories is to create your own potpourri. You can simmer a recipe in a pot on your stove throughout the day or use a small crockpot on your countertop. It is as simple as gathering the ingredients and adding them to simmering water. One classic holiday potpourri includes cinnamon, orange, nutmeg, cloves and vanilla. Some people also enjoy a recipe that incorporates apples, cinnamon, and cloves.

Scented Pine Cones

Cinnamon scented pine cones are often a hallmark of the winter months. For some, cinnamon is not the smell they are going for, but they love the idea of scented pine cones. You can easily collect your own from your backyard, find a favorite essential oil scent and spray the oil onto your pinecones. The bonus of this method is being able to choose the type of smell and the intensity of aroma by the amount you spray. It is a wintery take on the room diffuser.

Pine Sachet

If you love the smell of Christmas trees and miss it once the holidays are over, consider filling your home with that scent throughout the season. Choose a fresh cut Christmas tree that is a Fir tree (Balsam, Fraser or Canaan) these smell the best. Once the season is over and you are removing your tree, harvest the needles and dry them. Then you can sew them or tie them into a sachet and have that fresh tree scent all winter long. Crinkle the sachet in your hands to freshen up the smell every so often.

Sage Wreath

For a truly wintery wreath in your home, build a sage wreath with fresh leaves. The icy green color of the leaves is a beautiful addition to your decor with a lovely scent. Using a styrofoam wreath shape for its base, you can pin or tie an abundance of sage around the wreath. The leaves will shrink as they dry, so the more leaves, the better coverage. Top it all off by adding a bow and hanging it in your favorite spot.

3 Awesome Products to Help You Sneak Some Sleep

Humans are endlessly ingenious; we are constantly finding ways to solve problems, make life easier and streamline cumbersome processes. With a fast-paced lifestyle, it can be hard to find time to get the sleep you need. Here are three great inventions to help you catch a few extra winks at the office or on a spur-of-the-moment weekend visit with friends.

1. Guest Tent Bed

If you are visiting friends or hosting a house guest, it can be hard to find a comfortable bed and the bedroom-like privacy you need at the end of the day. This tent bed by Campeggi inflates into a convenient air mattress and has a structured tent for privacy. Whether you are sleeping in a friend's living room or sharing an extra bedroom with someone, you have a comfortable place to call your own. You can throw it in your car for those unexpected stays or store it in a closet for your overnight guests.

2. Desk Hammock

In the careers of 21st-century desk jockeys, there are always projects that require late nights and long weekends. If you are working on a big deadline and need a few moments to rest your eyes, consider this desk hammock for a quick nap. Named Schnap by its creators, the hammock secures itself underneath a desk or table and installs in a snap. It can easily be stored in a drawer or shelf until the next late-night project.

3. Ostrich Pillow

For travelers who know what an airplane nap feels like, the Ostrich Pillow is an excellent way to make your trip more comfortable. With a pillow, a head cover and holes for your hands, this fun product can make catching a few zzz's a calming experience. Take a nap on your tray table; it cradles your head, masks ambient sounds and keeps you warm. It can also work well for a quick nap in the office, and there is no assembly required.

Sleeping on the go is never as comfortable as curling up in your own bed. With these products handy, you might find more comfort and a more restful sleep than you ever expected when you are away from home. 

Better Ways To Care For Your Home.

So, you’ve just cleaned your home thoroughly. Think that’s enough? Well, think again! Our homes can fell into disarray really quickly and need constant maintenance. The good news, however, is that this can be done little by little, even if you don’t have much time to clean every day. Here’s how…

1)    Keep cleaning supplies stored throughout your home.

Especially if your home is quite large, dragging cleaning supplies around can be a real pain. Instead, keep a stash in a few key locations throughout your home. This way, if you need to quickly wipe down or dust surfaces, you have everything at hand! Also, it eliminates the need to deep clean your home quite as often.  

2) Use rugs and runners.

In high traffic areas, you will find that there is often an accumulation of dust and dirt. An easy way to clean these areas is to place rugs or runners down and simply vacuum these every few days when time is tight. In addition, this saves wear and tear on the carpet or wood surfaces underneath.

3) Always have a doormat at each door: inside and outside.

You would be surprised at the amount of dirt that is collected on doormats! If you have a doormat at every door, both inside and outside, the amount of dirt that will enter your home will be greatly reduced, meaning…much less work for you!

4) Set your dining table: permanently.

Want to prevent your family from using the dining table as a repository for general items such as backpacks, laptops, paperwork, keys, etc? Then simply keep the table beautifully and elegantly set…permanently! There will then be no space for them to put additional items, not to mention that they will not want to spoil the lovely appearance of the set table!

5) The Downstairs - Upstairs Rule.

Going upstairs? Whenever you go upstairs, make it a general rule to always bring something from downstairs that belongs upstairs. There will always be something- whether it is some laundry, a toy or a book. If you do this on a regular basis, your house will soon begin to look so much neater.

6) Clean the baseboards with dryer sheets.

Ok, so you probably won’t be cleaning your baseboards every day, but when you do clean them, do so with dryer sheets attached to a Swiffer sweeper. This method will repel dust for ages. In addition, the dryer sheets will have your home smelling incredibly fresh!

7) Groom your pets outside.

Particularly if you have long-haired dogs or cats, grooming them inside can cause a major accumulation of dust bunnies in a very short span of time. Although unpleasant in winter, groom them outside and let nature take care of cleaning up the mess!

8) The daily 10-minute power clean.

A daily 10-minute power clean can really make a world of difference! Set the timer and do a 10 minute power clean every single day. It is even better if you can involve every member of your family, especially the kids as they will see it as a game! Here, you can focus on an area or corner that is especially noticeable- and the key is not perfection but simply getting rid of the worst of the dirt and mess, as quickly as possible.

9) Buy a compact vacuum cleaner.

Many people do not regularly vacuum because they feel it is such a pain hauling out their vacuum cleaner from the closet. If, however, you have a compact vacuum cleaner, the task of vacuuming could be so much easier with the device easily at hand. You could simply devote 5 minutes to it every evening. That's definitely something to consider, isn’t it?

10) Buy machine washable curtains.

Save precious time (and money) vacuuming your curtains and then hauling them off to the dry cleaners by replacing them with machine washable ones. Not only will you be able to throw them in the washing machine when they are dirty, but you can also simply hang them up once clean and you will never have to vacuum a single curtain again! A great time saver!

Decluttering Roundup: Products That Help You De-stress and Remove Clutter

Decluttering your home can be a stressful, but worthwhile endeavor. The job may seem so insurmountable that it's difficult to know where to start. However, if you break up tasks into small, manageable accomplishments, you can get a lot more done. Check out some ideas in the areas of storage solutions, ideal cleaning products, and de-stressers that can help you in your quest to de-stress and remove clutter.

Storage Solutions

Organize your home by buying storage items that address a particular need. If your closets are full of decorative baskets that aren't working for you, check out these products.  They can really help you get your home working the way you have always envisioned.

1. Household Essentials 2-Tier Under-Sink Organizer — easily manages your cleaning supplies

2. Whitmor Supreme Laundry Sorter and Garment Rack — helps organize your household laundry

3. The Container Store's Stackable Drawer Organizers — mix and match these in your bathroom, kitchen and office

4. Proslat's Vertical Garage Storage — ideal for tools and outdoor toys

5. Ikea's Kallax for Toy Storage — perfect for indoor toy organization

6. All Modern's Storage Ottoman —  great for media or blanket storage

Cleaning Products

One of the best ways to maintain your home after you declutter is to have cleaning products that you love and enjoy using. Often, under-sink cabinets are filled with half-used and forgotten-about products. You can clean out and recycle any old bottles and start fresh with a few environmentally friendly products, including:

1. Eco-Me Floor Cleaner

2. Simple Green Carpet Cleaner

3. J.R. Watkins All-Purpose Cleaner

4. Legacy of Clean SA8 Laundry Detergent (one of Consumer Report's highest scoring green detergents)

5. Vaska Spot Off Spot Remover

Removing Stress

Often, stress and clutter go hand in hand; if you declutter your space, you'll probably find that you're de-stressing your life as well. Here are a few things that might help you further remove stress as you work through projects in your home.

1. Clear The Clutter, Find Happiness is a book of one-minute tips to organizing your home

2. Root's Relieve Aromatherapy Candle — the eucalyptus menthol scent is invigorating

3. Somus Supreme Memory Foam Comfort Pillow — relieves stress and pressure while you sleep

House Cleaning Schedule - Create a Plan to Make Your Home Shine

This post was written by veteran TIDY Homekeeper Anita M, who likes to share her tips on keeping a clean home.

House Cleaning Schedule

Keeping your home clean can sometimes feel like an impossible task, but one great way to make it feel less daunting is to set a schedule. Creating a house cleaning schedule will help ensure that you keep every part of your home clean, even the parts that you'd typically pay less attention to. When you're ready to make a cleaning schedule for your home, follow these tips to make sure you get the job done right.

Your Daily Focus: Keep Dirt Away

A daily cleaning schedule attacks the messes and dirt that accumulate in your house every day. It will keep your home tidy but doesn't do much about serious grime. By following this schedule, you'll have a house you can relax in after a long day at work. In fact, living in a clean home may even make you a happier person.

Try accomplishing these tasks to prevent messes from getting out of control:

• Make your bed
• Put dirty clothes in hamper
• Do a load of laundry when you have enough dirty clothes
• Wipe countertops after preparing meals
• Wash dishes (or load dishwasher)
• Spend 10 minutes picking up and putting away clutter
• Wipe out the kitchen and bathroom sinks

Your Weekly Focus: Clean Common Areas

The easiest house cleaning schedules only ask you to spend a little time each day focused on household chores. If you truly do not have time to do these tasks during the week, you can reserve them for the weekend.

Keep in mind that a weekend-heavy cleaning schedule could seem like a taxing chore that makes you tired during your days off from work. Many people who think they don't have time to clean during the week just need to learn new habits.

Here's a sample cleaning schedule you can follow during the week:

Sunday: Vacuum all carpets and rugs. Mop tile floors.

Monday: Wash bedsheets.

Tuesday: Wipe interior windows.

Wednesday: Clean stove.

Thursday: Wipe away smudges and dirt from walls.

Friday: Vacuum furniture.

Saturday: Clean exterior windows.

Your Seasonal Focus:Deep Cleaning

Your home doesn't need a deep clean very often. You should, however, work hard to remove grime from all areas of the house at least once per year. Don't try to force all of that cleaning into one weekend. You'll get better results by spreading out the tasks with an annual house clean schedule that tells you what to focus on each month.

Here's a sample schedule that you may want to follow:

Winter

Winter is a good time to clean out-of-the-way areas that often get neglected.

December: Empty and wipe down all cabinets. Dispose of unused medications.

January: Clean behind the refrigerator, washer, dryer and large furniture.

February: Steam clean all carpets.

Spring

March: Empty closets to find and donate unwanted items. Re-organize for the upcoming spring and summer seasons.

April: Clean window exteriors and screens.

May: Wash blankets, comforters, duvets and other large bedding.

Summer

June: Clean and organize the garage and basement.

July: Empty dressers and drawers. Clean insides and donate unwanted items.

August: Clean walls and retouch paint where necessary.

Fall

September: Reorganize closets and dressers for the upcoming cold seasons.

October: Give freezers, refrigerators, stoves and ovens a deep clean.

November: Consolidate and organize personal files.

These house cleaning schedules will make it relatively much easier for you to keep all areas of your home neat and clean. You don't have to follow them precisely, though. Feel free to create a schedule that matches the needs of your home and lifestyle. As long as you accomplish the tasks on these lists, you'll have a home you're proud to show your friends and relatives.