Cleaning & Organizing

How to Make DIY Linen Spray

admin — Thu, 04 Jan 2024 07:13:53 +0000

One of the best things about curling up in newly washed sheets is their crisp, clean scent. Yet within a day or two, the smell is often gone. Instead of investing in expensive commercial fabric sprays, you can easily create your own using your favorite scents. Not only is this a very affordable option, but a homemade spray also allows you to control the ingredients and avoid potentially harmful chemicals.

You can use any type of essential oil that you like and create different sprays for different applications. For instance, consider a calming scent, such as lavender, to spray on your bedding just before you go to sleep. Besides using your DIY linen spray on sheets, you also can spritz it on clothes, towels, drapery, and other fabrics in your home to give them a refresh and keep everything smelling clean in between washes. A light spritz should be fine for most types of fabrics, but be sure to test the spray on an inconspicuous spot first.

Before You Begin

If you will be reusing an old spray bottle for this project, make sure to thoroughly wash it. It should not have any lingering odors, as they might mix with your essential oils to create an unpleasant scent. Likewise, the spray bottle should not have any residues that might be harmful when sprayed on fabrics. Consider a glass bottle over plastic, as odors and residues are less likely to seep into the material.

Equipment / Tools

Small funnel
Large measuring cup
Mixing spoon

Materials

3 ounces unflavored vodka (or rubbing alcohol)
20 drops essential oil of your choice
1 1/2 cups distilled water
Small glass or plastic spray bottle (at least 16 oz.)
Small label sticker and pen (optional)

Mix Vodka and Essential Oil

Pour 3 ounces of vodka into a large measuring cup. If you don’t have vodka on hand, you can substitute with rubbing alcohol, which you can find at most drugstores. However, a linen spray made with rubbing alcohol will require more thorough shaking to mix the ingredients each time you want to use it.

Next, carefully add 20 drops of your favorite essential oil to the measuring cup.

Tip

While you can use whatever appeals to you, popular essential oil options for linen spray include rose, lavender, jasmine, and sandalwood. You can include one type of essential oil or mix oils to create a custom scent.
Add Water and Pour Into Spray Bottle

Add 1 1/2 cups of distilled water to the measuring cup, and thoroughly mix the vodka, oil, and water together using a spoon.

Unscrew the top of the spray bottle. Then, using the small funnel, pour the vodka, oil, and water mixture into the bottle. Screw the top back onto the bottle.
Label the Spray Bottle (Optional)

It’s a good idea to attach a small label sticker to your linen spray bottle, so you don’t forget what’s inside. Consider writing the recipe you used. That way, you’ll easily be able to replicate it in the future.

Also, write down the date you made the spray. On average, essential oil sprays last around six months to a year. Exposure to light and heat can cause the oils to degrade faster, so it’s best to use a tinted bottle and store your spray in a cool, dark spot. If the spray starts to smell off to you, that’s when it’s time to replace it.
Shake the Spray Bottle Prior to Use

Before every use of the linen spray, give a gentle shake to the spray bottle. Then, lightly spray the fabric.

Have a Roach Problem? Here’s How Much an Exterminator Will Cost You

admin — Thu, 04 Jan 2024 07:11:45 +0000

Let’s face it, cockroaches are the worst. They hide in crevices around your home, then sneak around in the dark, feasting on your food, garbage, and oil splatters. And where there’s one roach, there are likely many, many more.

Thankfully, there are lots of ways to treat roach infestations. While there are some relatively inexpensive DIY methods that can be effective on a small scale, they tend to be messy and time-consuming and aren’t typically sufficient for severe infestations. If you see signs of heavy cockroach activity, it’s best to have a pest control technician inspect your home, diagnose the problem, and perform extermination.

The cost of professional extermination depends on the area that needs to be treated and on the specific method used, which can vary based on the species of roach and the severity of the infestation. On average, most roach treatments cost between $250 and $375, but if you need to fumigate, prepare to spend at least $1,000. With that in mind, we’ve laid out a range of cost estimates and an explanation of what factors into your final bill. Eradicating cockroaches might not be cheap, but it’s always necessary.

How Much Is an Exterminator for Roaches?

According to the CEO of Goodbee Plumbing, Allison Harrison—who frequently partners with extermination companies in her role—cockroach treatment prices “can depend on several factors, including the severity of the infestation, the size of the property, the type of treatment required, and the location of the property.” Due to all of these variants, price estimates cover a pretty broad range, with prices generally getting higher as the infestation becomes more severe and widespread.

Tim Sherrer, the owner of Expest Exterminating, provided a range of estimates for exterminating German cockroaches, the most common species of roach that homeowners encounter:

Low estimate	$95–$125
Average estimate	$250–$375
High estimate	$450–$1,500

Cost of Roach Treatments

There are different types of roach treatments available, and it will be up to the exterminator you’re working with to decide which to use. They’ll likely make their decision based on the severity of your infestation. Minor to moderate roach issues tend to be treated with sprays, gel baits, glue traps, and roach dust. Generally speaking, for these treatments, the more rooms you need to apply the treatment in, the more the extermination will cost.

Fumigation is reserved for the most severe infestations and requires you to vacate your home while it’s being conducted, as a poisonous gas is released throughout the premises. As such, this is the most expensive type of treatment. According to Harrison, this is what you can expect to pay for various roach treatments:

Treatment Type	Average Price per Treatment
Spray	$40–$100
Gel bait	$100–$600
Glue traps	$100–$600
Roach dust	$100–$600
Fumigation	$1,000–$3,000

Best Roach Exterminators Near You

Key Specs	Terminix	Orkin	Arrow Exterminators
No. of Locations	300+	400+	171
Free Consultation?	Yes	Yes	Yes
Types of Treatments	Baits, glue traps, sprays, fumigation via contractors	Baits, dusts, growth regulators, sprays, fumigation	Baits, sprays, fumigation
Service Guarantee	Will either eliminate pests or provide free additional treatments	30-day, money-back guarantee, plus will either eliminate pests or provide free additional treatments	100% satisfaction guarantee (details unclear)

Terminix

Get a Quote

Terminix is one of the biggest names in pest control, with over 300 locations nationwide and nearly a century of experience. It offers both quarterly and one-time roach extermination plans. When a technician comes to your home for an initial visit, they’ll determine exactly which species of cockroach has infested your home, as well as the severity of the problem. Then they’ll share recommended treatment methods. Terminix will tailor its treatment to your situation and may use baits or sprays to eliminate the infestation. The company doesn’t perform fumigation itself; instead, it will subcontract that service out to a third party if your situation requires it.

Terminix also offers a Nix Pest Guarantee, which means that if the initial treatment fails to eradicate your roaches, the company will return for a re-treatment, free of charge. Keep in mind that there’s a bit of fine print you should read before booking a cockroach elimination plan with Terminix. For example, its One-Time Pest Control plan only provides re-treatment if pests return within 30 days of the first treatment; after that, you’re not guaranteed free re-treatments.

5 Easy Habits to Help Keep Your Home Clutter-Free

admin — Thu, 04 Jan 2024 07:03:22 +0000

Jeff Sheldon / Unsplash

It’s a safe bet that few people would say they actually like clutter. It seems like no matter how much we find a place for everything in our home, before we know it, things start to look messy again.

Never fear, it is entirely possible to live in a home that is naturally free of clutter. Before that can happen, though, you will probably have to do some soul-searching. As professional organizer Laura Cattano says, “It’s not the stuff. It’s you.”

“I love this time of year, looking at the new year and goals,” Cattano says. “I ask my clients ‘How do you want to live? Think about how you want to live in your space. Then think about how you want your space to feel. If you can identify those two things, then look at everything in your life through the lens of ‘Is this going to get me what I want?’“

Below, experts share their tips for keeping your home clutter-free.

MEET THE EXPERT

Laura Cattano is a professional organizer with 17 years of experience and an interior stylist. She is the owner of Laura Cattano Organizational Design.
Joanna Wirick is a professional organizer and owns Joanna Organize.

Get Rid of It

“My definition of clutter is the stuff that people have and think they need but don’t actually use it. It doesn’t add anything to their life,” Cattano says. “It’s on a shelf or in a drawer, and it isn’t making your life better.”

She continues: “The best thing you can do is get rid of anything that doesn’t help you. You buy stuff that helps you do something.”

So instead of holding on to things for “just in case” or because you got a great deal, just let it go. “Whether or not you use something isn’t a reason to keep or get rid of it,” says Cattano. “It’s how you live your life. Put yourself before the stuff. ‘How I want to live’ is more important than ‘I want to have 17 can openers.’’”

Be Mindful of Purchases

“Training ourselves to keep things tidy starts with being honest with ourselves and a willingness to get uncomfortable,” says a professional organizer Joanna Wirick. “Many of us want a tidier, less-cluttered home, but we’re not willing to take an honest and close look at our spending habits.”

Gifts are often a major part of the holidays, but Cattano says reducing this spending can help prevent clutter. “It took years to get people to understand I prefer not to have a gift. Why am I buying my adult brother a Christmas present? He doesn’t need anything. I’ll buy it for nieces and nephews but not adults because then it’s just something to deal with.”

She acknowledges that it can be difficult to get buy-in on this idea. “Not everyone is going to listen. Who will? Sister? Friend? Every little thing helps.”

With children, Cattano suggests that parents prep them for receiving gifts. “Tell them we are going to be getting some gifts, so let’s take a look at our things and see what we can take away and make room for the new stuff.”

Change Your Habits

When going through items, Cattano has a message for her clients. “If you are already overwhelmed in your space, then something has to go,” she says. “There is a lesson to learn: Nobody wants your old toys. If throwing it out makes you feel bad, well it should. Be more conscious before you bring something in or get something that can be reused and passed on.”

Look at Storage Choices

Being intentional about what you store out in the open and what is hidden away makes a big difference in how your space feels. “I find the biggest issue is that there isn’t a good balance between open and closed storage,” Cattano says. “Think about what is going to happen in that room. Then take a look at the stuff there and decide what you want to see. Maybe add a door unit and a shelf unit,” she says. “I know it’s expensive to go out and buy new furniture, so if you have all open storage, I like to use decorative boxes to hide it.”

Create Cleaning Rituals

“It’s easy to slip into old habits after the novelty of New Year’s resolutions has worn off, but implementing two simple daily rituals will help prevent clutter from taking over,” says Joanna Wirick, professional organizer and owner of Joanna Organize. She breaks this tip into two parts: morning and evening.

“Each night, tidy up common areas by following the five things tidying method,” she says. “This gives structure to the ritual. I also fold blankets and fluff pillows. It may seem silly to reset spaces that will get used the next day, but this tactic is a sure way to stay on top of clutter. In the morning, finish up any area that you didn’t complete the night before. I typically unload the dishwasher and prep breakfast.”

Wirick says it all comes back to habits. “If you buy in bulk but don’t have the storage room for excess, change this habit,” she says. “If you get gifted hand-me-downs that you don’t like, set a boundary. Changing habits is difficult, but as long as you have a grown mindset and are willing to get comfortable with the discomfort change brings, you can do it!”

The 9 Dirtiest Places in Your Kitchen

admin — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 03:07:01 +0000

The kitchen may be the heart of a home, which is often why it’s also the dirtiest place in a home. There’s the obvious mess—like used dishes, a sticky floor, or a crusty oven. But oftentimes, there are areas and objects that are overlooked, so ask yourself, are there other places you’re forgetting to clean?

Think about the areas and objects you may be using every day during food preparation. What should come to mind are kitchen counters, handles, sinks, sponges, reusable water bottles, and more. They’re often touched daily, so it’s crucial to disinfect them either every day or a few times a week to avoid built-up bacteria and cross-contamination.1

Any Knobs, Handles, and Touch Pads

Every appliance in your kitchen has some type of control panel or handle that’s touched each time it’s used. It’s important to remember to wash all those knobs, buttons, or touchpads weekly because they’ve often overlooked when we’re giving our kitchens a deep clean. Especially if you’re touching it when you’re cooking or handling raw food. Be sure to clean kitchen cabinet pulls, appliance handles, and control panels using a disinfectant wipe or spray-on disinfectant cleaner and clean cloth or paper towel.

Sink

Even though there is plenty of water running through your kitchen sink, there are likely microbes lurking on the surface, especially in the crevices where the sink joins the counter, around the drain, and garbage disposal stoppers.2

The kitchen sink should be disinfected after every meal preparation, washing dishes or at least once per day, and don’t forget the handles and faucet and the counter areas near the sink. They catch all of the splatters when you rinse off contaminated foods.Use a sink cleaner that contains a disinfecting agent and a clean towel or disposable disinfectant wipes.

Sponges, Brushes, and Dishcloths

In an effort to reduce the use of paper towels and their impact on the environment, many homes use cellulose sponges, sink scrubbing brushes, and fabric dishtowels. Unfortunately, kitchen sponges and cleaning brushes harbor high bacterial levels, if not properly washed and disinfected.3

If you use these products, they should be washed in hot water after each meal preparation or cleaning session. Sink and vegetable scrubbing brushes can be placed in the dishwasher for thorough cleaning after each use.

Refrigerator

We’ve already discussed what can lurk on refrigerator handles and touchpads, but even with the cold temperatures, some pretty harmful bacteria can actually grow inside your fridge.4

Most fruits and vegetables will stay fresh longer if they are not washed before storing. In this case, it’s better to store them unwashed to avoid quick spoilage, but it’s important to wash the drawers often to avoid future contamination because food residues or bacteria can be left behind.5

The same thing happens with raw meat that is stored in the refrigerator. Packaging leaks and fluids accumulate in the drawers and along the edges of shelves. Even packaged products like milk or tubs of butter have been handled and stored numerous times before they enter your refrigerator.

To get rid of any kind of bacteria, as well as yeast and mold that can be grown there, remove refrigerator drawers or shelves—if possible—monthly and wash the surfaces with mild detergent and hot or warm water. Dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Between thorough cleanings, wipe away any spills and give the interior surfaces a quick wipe with a disinfecting wipe.

Additionally, take the extra few steps of dusting the top of the appliance and vacuuming behind and underneath as well. Remove the vent cover to vacuum the coils. Dust on coils makes the refrigerator work harder to stay cool, using more energy, and food particles hiding underneath are insect magnets.

Cutting Boards

Cutting boards, especially wooden boards, can harbor bacteria in the tiny nooks and crannies that appear after even a single use. It is important to have at least two separate cutting boards: one for fruits and vegetables and one for meats. This will reduce cross-contamination during meal preparation.6

Wash each board after every use with hot, soapy water and rinse well with hot water. Then dry completely with a paper towel or clean dish towel. Do not leave the boards to drip dry because bacteria love a warm, moist environment. You can also choose cutting boards that can be placed in a dishwasher for a thorough cleaning.

Coffee Maker, Blender, & Small Appliances

Even clean water that lingers in a warm, moist environment like a coffee maker can create a perfect environment for bacteria, yeast, and mold to grow.7 Some small appliances must be cleaned after every use. At least weekly, disassemble and clean small appliances thoroughly. Some components are safe to place in the dishwasher and others should be washed in hot, soapy water and then rinsed in hot water and dried completely.

The same cleaning routine should be applied to utensils like can openers, measuring spoons, and cups.

Reusable Lunch Boxes, Shopping Bags, & Water Bottles

Each time you use a resealable container or reusable lunch box, shopping bag, or water bottle, there is a potential for cross-contamination from bacteria, unless it has been cleaned correctly.8

The containers should be completely dissembled and placed in the dishwasher or washed in hot, soapy water, rinsed in hot water, and dried completely. Most lunch boxes and reusable shopping bags can be tossed in the clothes washer for a thorough cleaning.

An additional tip for the shopping bags is to keep them separated—designate one or more for cleaning supplies, one for raw fruits and vegetables, one for raw meat, and one for packaged goods.

Countertops

Don’t neglect your kitchen counters—they’re often the areas where purses, shopping bags, and other items are placed daily on top of it being a place to prepare food.

Grab a disinfectant wipe or clean cloth and disinfectant spray, and clean before preparing food or at least once per day. Skip the sponge or used dishcloth because they may be harboring bacteria and germs.9

At least weekly, take time to get into corners, under small appliances, and along the edges between the stove or refrigerator and countertop. You don’t want to imagine what is hidden in those moist, dark spaces.

Salt and Pepper Shakers

One last dirty spot to consider is the kitchen salt and pepper shakers. Shakers are often used and frequently touched during food preparation. Give them a careful wipe down with a disinfecting wipe after every meal preparation and a thorough cleaning every week.

How to Rid Your Entire Home of Dust

admin — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 08:36:56 +0000

The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the windows are open. It is all lovely, but letting in the fresh air unfortunately means an uptick in the housekeeper’s oldest enemy—dust. This is especially tough in the spring when allergens move through the air and into your house via dust particles. Suddenly, you’re sneezing and sniffling and wondering how to get rid of that pesky thin film that’s covering everything you see.

What’s worse? Most feather dusters don’t actually pick up dirt, they just push it around. You can spend six hours dusting your entire home from ceiling to floor and still see specks everywhere you look if you’re not using the right methods and supplies.

Follow the steps below to learn how to get rid of dust in your home. Your home will be sparkling and speck-free in no time

How Often Should You Dust Your Home?

To really get rid of dust for good (or at least for a while) you’ll need more than just a feather duster. Our recommendation to keep dust out of your home is to give it a good dusting/cleaning at least once per month for easy-to-reach areas, like your ceiling fan and upholstery. Tackle more difficult spots every three to six months, like high windows and ceilings, small items like picture frames, and shelves.

Equipment / Tools

Dusting Tools

1 Microfiber cloth
1 Bar mop towel or roll of paper towels
1 Lightweight canister vacuum with a round brush attachment

Materials

Cleaning Products

1 All-purpose cleaner
1 Glass cleaner

Instructions

How to Rid Your Home of Dust

Gather the Right Supplies

Typical feather dusters, and even some Swiffer dusting products, don’t actually pick up dust—they just move it from one spot to another. The solution? A microfiber cloth.

If you haven’t tried one yet, microfiber is the holy grail of dusting material. The durable fabric actually catches and picks up dust instead of just moving or spreading it. When the cloth gets dirty, you can throw it in the laundry through the washer and dryer or hand-wash, both methods work great. You can snag a pack of microfiber cloths online for just a few dollars, and they are totally effective, totally reusable, and totally worth it.

Tip

For ceiling fans and hard-to-reach light fixtures, use a flexible microfiber duster on a pole, as it is far safer to use than climbing on step stools and ladders.

Work from Ceiling to Floor

Now that you’re armed with your trusty microfiber, you might be tempted to dust the first thing you see at eye level. But, hold back.

First, grab your microfiber duster on a pole and pend the duster to wrap around the ceiling fan blades.This step is crucial, especially for those ceiling fans. Nothing kills a clean faster than turning on a dusty ceiling fan and watching the room fill with dust particles like a dirty snow storm.

Dampen your microfiber cloth, add one spray of your favorite all-purpose cleaner directly on the cloth, and gently wipe the high surfaces to clean them off.

Use a Canister Vacuum When Possible

Snag a lightweight vacuum with a strap and use it on shelves, on top of cabinets, in molding, and anywhere else you want an extra thorough dusting. You want to hold the vacuum in person before you buy it to make sure it’s light enough to lift with one hand. Use the dusting cup attachment with the vacuum to ensure you don’t scratch anything as they dust.

Ensure the vacuum has a HEPA filter. Vacuums kick back some of the dust they pick up, releasing back into the room you just cleaned. HEPA filters actually trap that dust (and, if you’ve got furry friends, they are fantastic at trapping pet dander), making your dusting job much more effective.

Tip

If the vacuum you like doesn’t have a HEPA filter included, you can purchase one for your vacuum. They are inexpensive and easily clip on to the outside of most canister vacuums.

Use Microfiber on Glass Surfaces As Well

Microfiber is your best bet for ridding any surface in your home of dust. There are even special microfiber towels made specifically for glass to ensure streak-free shine that really make glass cleaning so much easier. Opt for a microfiber cloth on glass or wood for the cleanest finish.

Go All the Way Down to Your Baseboards

Once you’ve moved from the light fixtures and ceiling fans down past the countertops and knick-knacks, you’ll finish up on your baseboards. If you haven’t dusted your baseboards before, (1) we won’t tell anyone, and (2) you won’t believe the difference it makes in making your home feel like it was professionally cleaned.

To get this done, start by vacuuming the surface with a round brush attachment (canister vacuums usually come with these, but if not, they are inexpensive and can easily be found in any hardware store or on Amazon).

Then, grab your microfiber cloth, spray it once or twice with your favorite all-purpose cleaner, and finish off with a quick wipe down. If your baseboards are neglected and scuffed, a Magic Eraser is a miracle worker at bringing old baseboards back to life.

Clean Out Your Pantry in 4 Easy Steps

admin — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 04:38:03 +0000

No matter whether you have a dedicated pantry or just a couple of shelves in a cabinet for food storage, keeping it clean and organized is important. With an organized pantry, you can help protect your food from insect infestation, save money by using products before they expire, and access ingredients quickly during meal preparation.

Cleaning a pantry takes a bit of time but you can do it with just four easy steps. Set aside an hour or so and you’ll be amazed at how good your pantry can look and function.

How Often to Clean Out Your Pantry

Ideally, you should clean your pantry at least four times a year as the seasons change. However, twice a year is a good start.

Spills of wet or dry items should be cleaned up immediately. If you see insect infestation, the pantry should be cleaned right away to prevent further spread to the rest of your kitchen or home.

Equipment / Tools

1 vacuum
1 microfiber cloth
1 small bucket
4 to 10 sealable clear containers
4 to 10 plastic bins or baskets
1 pen or marker

Materials

1 bottle all-purpose cleaner
1 bottle disinfectant or disinfecting wipes
1 trash bag
2 to 10 cardboard boxes or shopping bags
4 to 10 labels

Instructions

How to Clean Out Your Pantry

Empty the Pantry Shelves

Take everything out of the pantry. If you don’t have counter space close by, bring over a table or place some cardboard boxes on the floor to hold everything.

Tip

Get a head start on the sorting step by placing similar items together as you unload the pantry.

Clean the Pantry Storage Space

- Use a vacuum with a hose and brush or a handheld vacuum to suction away crumbs and cobwebs.

Mix some warm water and a tablespoon of an all-purpose cleaner in a small bucket or bowl. Dip a microfiber cloth in the solution and wring until it is not dripping. Starting at the top of the pantry, wipe down each shelf and the walls. Don’t forget the floor!
If you see or suspect mold or mildew, clean the area with a disinfectant solution (follow the label instructions) or use disinfecting wipes.
Allow the area to air-dry while you sort the food that should be returned to the shelves.

Sort the Items in the Pantry

Remove any items that belong in other places and put them in their proper spot. It’s not a good idea to store cleaning supplies alongside food products.
Gather cardboard boxes or shopping bags and trash bags before you begin sorting. Designate one area as “Keep”, one as “Donate”, and one as “Trash”.
Check the expiration date on each product and then decide where it should go. Toss items that are expired, any food that shows insect infestation, leaking or bulging cans, and open foods that are stale. Donate foods that your family doesn’t like or items that you’ve over-bought to a local food pantry. Keep the rest.

Sort the Items in the Pantry

Remove any items that belong in other places and put them in their proper spot. It’s not a good idea to store cleaning supplies alongside food products.
Gather cardboard boxes or shopping bags and trash bags before you begin sorting. Designate one area as “Keep”, one as “Donate”, and one as “Trash”.
Check the expiration date on each product and then decide where it should go. Toss items that are expired, any food that shows insect infestation, leaking or bulging cans, and open foods that are stale. Donate foods that your family doesn’t like or items that you’ve over-bought to a local food pantry. Keep the rest.

Tips to Keep Your Pantry Clean Longer

Keep a running list of what you have on hand in your pantry. Make a notation of what you need to restock to prevent overbuying.
Maximize your storage space with shelf risers, over-the-door shelves, turntables, and reusable storage containers.
Remove excess packaging from the manufacturer to create more space.

How to Organize a Shed

admin — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 03:13:47 +0000

Sheds are like steam showers and wine coolers; they’re not necessary, but boy are they nice to have. For many of us, sheds are preferred storage space for weathered gloves and wheelbarrows, but not every home has one and not every homeowner can afford to build or buy one. So when you’re lucky enough to land a property with a shed already present, it can feel like the cherry on top of a very tasty dessert.

Unfortunately, sheds can deteriorate into an oversized junk drawer if you’re not intentional about storing items properly and with care. If your shed has become a crowded collection of garden hoses and baseball bats, or if you don’t even know what’s in your shed anymore, it’s time to take a deep dive into this once-loved storage space and restore it to its former glory. Use the five steps listed below to transform your shed into a functional “bonus” storage solution.

Know What You Have

It’s easy to stock up on extra goods and equipment when you have a shed. A discounted bag of fertilizer you purchased off season, a bird feeder you spotted at a neighboring garage sale—they all seem so convenient and ideal until your shed has evolved into a box of cluttered chaos you’d prefer to ignore. If you truly want to address the mess, however, you’ll have to lean into that chaos. Spend a day (or even a weekend) pulling everything out of your shed. Lay it all out in your yard or driveway, so you can get a full picture of what you own. Once you’ve gained a clearer idea of your shed’s contents, you can begin sorting it all in a way that makes sense.

Cut Out the Clutter

Your shed is an easy space to fill and forget. It’s also easy to fill and neglect. Perhaps you’ve stuffed your shed with family heirlooms you hope to pass down to a child or relative. Maybe you purchased a vintage chair you had planned to reupholster but never got around to it. Now that you’ve pulled everything out of your storage shed, take advantage of this prime opportunity to cut out the clutter. Toss leftover pain cans. Donate duplicate (but still functional) tools. As you sift through your possessions, you may also find that some items would be best kept elsewhere, like extra bedding or important documents. Consider temperature, moisture, and pests, and relocate items that are sensitive to these factors. Evaluate every item slowly and intentionally.

Group Your Belongings

You’ve parted ways with the clutter and re-homed necessary items, but it’s not quite time to move everything back into storage. If you complete this whole process only to find yourself still overwhelmed by your shed and unable to locate what you need when you need it, you haven’t truly addressed the mess. So now that you’ve narrowed down the contents of your shed, spend some time sorting through your remaining goods and arranging them into groups, like gardening tools, seasonal decor, and propane and oil tanks. Group your belongings into categories, so you can create an organized storage system.

Invest in Proper Storage

While cardboard boxes are certainly affordable, they’re not particularly effective storage containers for a shed. Before you refill your shed with shovels and tarps, think about your previous means of storage and adjust where necessary. First, make sure bins, shelves, and other storage areas are still functional. Toss cracked containers and replace sagging shelves. Consider your storage categories and add labels to help you locate items quickly. Ultimately, you should have fun and get creative with this step. For example, you can utilize wall space for hanging your gardening tools. Additionally, if you keep items like wrenches and hammers in your shed, you can install a magnetic strip along the wall to store them.

Keep Your Shed Tidy

To make sure your shed stays organized, try to avoid the habits that created a chaotic space in the first place. When you’re tempted to toss in cushions from your outdoor patio furniture before winter, think about how that action will affect future visits to the shed. After you’ve used your yard tools, resist the urge to drop them by the door and race to the shower. Clean your dirt-caked shovels and shears thoroughly, then put them back in their proper homes. Finally, when you want to add something new to the shed, make sure you are purposeful about its placement. Stick to your storage system, and you’ll be happy you did.

How to Unclog a Drain With Baking Soda and Vinegar

admin — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 12:40:30 +0000

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a kitchen staple that can work wonders to clean clothes, appliances, and even drains that are smelly or clogged.

A naturally occurring mineral compound, baking soda can dissolve mineral deposits and organic materials such as grease. Baking soda has slight disinfectant properties to combat odor-causing bacteria and fungi. Regular cleaning with baking soda may prevent clogs from forming. Before using chemical drain cleaners or disassembling the drain trap, try baking soda to see if it does the trick.

Equipment / Tools

Pot
Funnel

Materials

Boiling water
Dish soap
Baking soda
Distilled white vinegar
Salt

How to Unclog a Drain with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Heat Boiling Water

Heat boiling water in a tea kettle on the stovetop or in a large pourable measuring cup in the microwave.

Pour Boiling Water and Dish Soap Into Drain

Squirt a bit of grease-fighting dish soap into the drain and carefully pour the boiling water down the drain. The dish soap will help dissolve greasy clogs.

Pour Baking Soda Into the Drain

Pour one cup of baking soda into the drain. You can use a measuring cup to do this or use a funnel if you have a smaller drain that makes it hard to pour directly into the drain opening.

Follow With Vinegar

Pour one cup of distilled white vinegar into the drain. Don’t be surprised by the audible reaction that occurs. Baking soda is an alkaline substance and vinegar is a mild acetic acid. When the two are mixed, they react somewhat dramatically to neutralize one another; the fizzing action you hear is the reaction that will often dislodge clogs in your drain.

Flush With More Hot Water

After the fizzing subsides, wait five minutes. Use this time to heat two cups of water to boiling. Flush the drain with this additional boiling water.

If the drain is now flowing, run hot tap water to flush all debris down the drain. If it is not draining, repeat the previous steps. If you haven’t cleaned your drain recently, it may be necessary to repeat the baking soda flush at least twice.

If a drain clog doesn’t clear after two or more attempts, use the baking soda and salt method described below.

How to Clean a Clogged Drain With Salt and Baking Soda

If the baking soda and vinegar method doesn’t unclog the drain, use the salt and baking soda method next. This works best if you do it right before bedtime since the drain won’t be used until morning.

Pour Baking Soda Into the Drain

Pour one cup of baking soda into the clogged drain.

Pour Salt Into the Drain

Follow the baking soda with 1/2 cup of salt poured into the drain. Let this mixture sit in the drain for several hours—overnight is best.

Flush With Boiling Water

In the morning, heat two cups of water to a boil, then pour this hot water into the drain.

Flush With Tap Water

If the drain begins to drain, continue to flush with hot tap water. If not, you may need to repeat the process or try the baking soda and vinegar method.

If neither baking soda method opens the drain, it is likely you’ll need to disassemble the drain trap to clear the clog.

How Often to Clean Your Drains

Weekly, flush drains with boiling water mixed with liquid grease-fighting dish soap, such as Dawn. Clean your drain with baking soda as soon as you notice the water is draining slowly. You can also use this process as a regular maintenance method for your drains. For example, if you keep a box of open baking soda in your refrigerator to absorb odors, use the old baking soda to flush your kitchen drain when it comes time to change the box.

Here are the various methods with simple steps using baking soda to clean drains.

Tips for Keeping Your Drains Clean

Always use strainer baskets on your drains to keep hair and food particles from going down the drain.
Never pour oil or grease down the drain. When cooking greasy or oily foods, wipe the cookware with a paper towel before washing so less grease, oil, and fat go down the drain to form a clog.
Regularly add boiling water with a grease-fighting dish soap down the drain to prevent the buildup of greasy clogs.
Both the baking-soda-and-vinegar and the baking-soda-and-salt methods can be used to clean and freshen your garbage disposal. To remove odors from a garbage disposal, reduce the required amounts of baking soda, water, vinegar, and salt by half and follow the directions above.

How to Clean Wine Glasses Properly

admin — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 03:35:15 +0000

Master sommeliers and wine connoisseurs agree that wine can taste differently depending on the type of wine glass you use.

Whether you are using a stemmed, narrow flute for champagne, a large-bowled stemware for red wine, or one of the modern stemless wine glasses, it should be sparkling clean.

Learn how to clean wine glasses correctly to remove stains and enjoy the wine at its best.

How Often to Clean Wine Glasses

Wine glasses should be washed after every use. Ideally, you would wash the glass or find a fresh one each time you move between wine varieties or vintages.

Glasses should be washed at least yearly, even if they are stored in a closed cabinet, to remove dust and pollution that could cause etching to the glass.

Wine glasses should also be washed after unpacking after a move before placing them in a cabinet or rack.

Equipment / Tools

Large sink or plastic tub
Rubber sink mat
Microfiber towels
Wine glass brush
Fork or bamboo skewer
Microfiber dishcloth
Nylon net dish scrubber
Microwave or stovetop
Microwaveable bowl
Pan

Materials

Mild dishwashing liquid
Distilled white vinegar
Baking soda

Before You Begin:

To protect your wine glasses from harsh detergents and scratches, hand-washing is recommended. If you choose to use an automatic dishwasher, always load the glasses with plenty of space between them in the upper rack.

They should not touch. If they are too tall for the upper rack, try to adjust it or use the lower rack but do not allow the glasses to touch plates or silverware. Use the gentle, no-heat dry cycle. Remove the glasses while they are still damp and hand-dry each one with a lint-free towel.

Skip the Suds

When washing freshly used wine glasses, fill a sink or plastic tub with warm water and just a drop or two of dishwashing liquid. You do not need much soap to clean the glasses.

Line the bottom of the sink with a rubber mat or dishtowel to help prevent chips or scratches from the sink.

Tip

Never use an abrasive scrubbing sponge or abrasive cleaners on wine glasses. The scratches that will occur can never be removed.

Wash Gently

Use a nylon scrubber or wine glass brush to wash the glass. Focus on the rim and the interior of the bowl.

For a delicate stemmed glass, hold the glass securely by the bowl with one hand and wash it with the other hand.

Use the Right Water Temperature for Rinsing

Always use warm water for rinsing—never cold or hot water. The rinse water should be the same temperature as the washing water to prevent cracks in the glass from extreme temperature changes.

Lint-Free Drying

Use a lint-free cloth, like a microfiber towel to dry the glasses. Again, hold the glass firmly with one hand and use the towel to dry the bowl, stem, and base of the glass.

How to Remove Cloudiness and Tough Red Wine Stains

If you left the glasses sitting overnight with a bit of wine still in the glass, you may have tough red wine stains to remove.

Warm Some Distilled White Vinegar

Fill a microwaveable bowl about half full with water and heat in the microwave until it is simmering. Or, heat a pan of water on the stovetop until it is simmering.

Place a bottle of distilled white vinegar in the water and let it sit for about five or 10 minutes to warm.

Soak the Wine Glasses in Warm Vinegar

Pour the warm vinegar into the bowls of the glasses or fill a plastic tub with the vinegar and submerge the glasses. Let the glasses soak for an hour.

Scrub and Wash the Wine Glasses

After soaking, use a wine glass brush or a fork or bamboo skewer wrapped in a microfiber dishcloth to scrub the bottom of the bowl of the glass. Then wash, rinse, and dry the glasses as usual.

If the stain remains, fill the wine glass half-full of warm vinegar and add one teaspoon of baking soda. There will be fizzing!

The chemical reaction between the vinegar and baking soda will help to loosen the wine stain.

When all of the fizzing stops, scrub the glass gently with the brush and then wash as usual.

Tip

Use caution when trying this cleaning method—more delicate glasses, like champagne flutes, might shatter from the chemical reaction.

Clear Away Cloudy Film

The same warm vinegar soak will cut through any film left on the glasses from residual detergents, fingerprints, or pollution.

It will not remove scratches or etching that have occurred due to washing the glasses repeatedly in hard water.

Tip

If you do not have vinegar, cleaning the class with rubbing alcohol should also remove the cloudy film.

Tips to Keep Wine Glasses Crystal-Clean Longer

Always hand-wash the glasses as quickly as possible after they are used.
Use less detergent to reduce cloudiness from sticky residue.
Always use warm water for washing and rinsing.
Do a warm distilled white vinegar soak at least yearly.

How to Clean a Tungsten Ring

admin — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 02:51:50 +0000

Tungsten rings have gained popularity because of their durability, stylish appearance, and affordability. Jewelers also use tungsten carbide to create bracelets, necklaces, and earrings that are much more affordable than silver, gold, or platinum. The metal will not tarnish, is rust-resistant, and is easy to clean.

Tungsten carbide jewelry is formed from 80 percent elemental Tungsten and 20 percent Carbon alloyed with other metals. The process begins with fine gray powder that is heated, pressed, and formed into shapes for jewelry, industrial machinery, and plates for armored vests.

Learn how to keep your tungsten ring and other jewelry clean with a few products you already have on hand.

Fun Facts

A diamond rated a 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness is the only substance that can scratch tungsten which is rated at nine on the scale. Tungsten jewelry is naturally hypoallergenic, and the ring finishes can be highly polished, hammered, or brushed.

How Often to Clean a Tungsten Ring

The cleaning schedule for a tungsten ring is highly dependent on the work you are doing with your hands. The ring should be cleaned as soon as possible after any exposure to harsh chemicals like ammonia, chlorine, or motor oils. Even body oils, bathing, and cleaning products can leave the finish looking dull. If your ring has lost its luster, it’s time to give it a thorough cleaning. This can be done monthly or as needed.

Equipment / Tools

Two small bowls
Soft toothbrush
Microfiber cloth

Materials

Mild dishwashing liquid
Warm water

Mix a Cleaning Solution

Add one cup of warm water and about three drops of a mild dishwashing liquid to a small bowl. Do not use any type of cleaning product that contains ammonia or chlorine bleach.

Remove and Inspect Your Ring

Remove your ring and inspect it for any loose stones or other issues. If you see a problem, do not continue and take your ring to a jeweler for repair.

Add the Ring to the Cleaning Solution

Place the ring in the cleaning solution. Allow it to soak for at least 10 minutes. If the ring has engraving or mounted stones, let it soak a bit longer to help loosen the soil that has accumulated in those areas.

Tip

Several tungsten rings, bracelets, or necklaces can be cleaned in the same cleaning solution. Adjust the size of the bowl and the amount of solution to accommodate the jewelry you are cleaning.

Remove the Ring From the Cleaning Solution

After soaking, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub away any visible soil. Pay close attention to engraved areas or the nooks and crannies around mounted stones. If some of the grime will not come off, return the ring to the soaking solution for another 10-15 minutes and try again.

Rinse and Buff Dry

After scrubbing, dip the jewelry in a bowl of clean warm water to rinse away any residue or hold the ring under a soft running stream of warm water. Use a lint-free microfiber cloth to dry and buff the ring.

WARNING

While tungsten is an extremely hard metal, it is not impervious to damage. Chemicals like chlorine bleach, drain cleaners, oven cleaners, and ammonia can damage the finish of your ring.

An ultrasonic jewelry cleaner solution may contain chemicals that, if used regularly, can cause microscopic fractures in your ring which can trap dirt and weaken the ring.

Tips to Keep Your Tungsten Ring Clean and Looking Great Longer

Remove your tungsten ring when going swimming in a chlorinated pool or hot tub.
Remove your ring when working with household bleach, ammonia, or motor oils.
Store tungsten rings in a soft, cloth bag to protect them from scratches from diamond jewelry in your jewelry box. Storing them separately also protects your stainless steel, silver, gold, gold-plated, and platinum jewelry from scratches caused by the tungsten.

How to Clean Converse Sneakers

admin — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 02:41:11 +0000

Sneakers are one of the easiest items to get dirty—and because of how popular Converse sneakers are with kids, it’s almost inevitable that they will need cleaning from time to time. Between running through grass and dirt, Converse can start to become dull and dingy in minutes. But, the good news is that they’re easy to clean.

Whether you are wearing Converse sneakers for sport or just stylin’, learn how to properly clean all types of Converse sneakers.

Fun Facts

The company began operation as the Converse Rubber Shoe Company in February 1908 in Malden, Massachusetts. Chuck Taylor, a basketball player, was hired in 1923 as a salesman and in 1932 his name became synonymous with classic basketball sneakers. Converse was purchased by Nike in July, 2003, and the line expanded to include custom designs.

Equipment / Tools

Soft-bristled brush
Small bowl
Suede brush
Sponge or microfiber cloth

Materials

Gentle detergent
Melamine sponge
White tissue paper
Baking soda
Cornstarch
Fabric protective spray

How to Clean Canvas and Leather Converse Sneakers

Remove and Clean the Laces

It is always easier to clean any type of sneakers if you remove the laces first. You can access the tongue of the shoe and get deeper into the interior to clean the insole.

To clean the laces, fill a small bowl with warm water and add a few drops of detergent or dishwashing liquid. Submerge the laces and let them soak as you clean the rest of the shoes.

After soaking, use your hands or a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works great) to scrub the laces. Rinse well in fresh water and roll in a towel to absorb most of the moisture. Hang the laces to dry.

Tip

If the laces are the dirtiest part of the sneakers, replace them and your sneakers will immediately look better.

Remove Excess Dirt

If your shoes are covered with mud, allow it to dry completely and then use a soft-bristled brush to remove the dirt from the soles and uppers.

Wipe Away Soil From the Exterior

Mix a solution of warm water and a mild detergent in a small bowl. Dip a sponge or microfiber cloth in the solution and wring until it is not dripping.

Gently rub the sneaker to remove soil from the canvas and outer sole. Rinse the cloth often as the soil is transferred. If there are scuffs on the outer sole, dip a melamine sponge (Mr. Clean Eraser) in the cleaning solution and gently scrub the sole. Do not use the melamine sponge on the canvas or leather uppers.

Clean the Inside of the Shoes

Mix a fresh solution of the cleaning mixture. Dip a microfiber cloth in the solution and wring it out well to wipe down the interior of the sneakers.

Tip

To freshen smelly sneakers between cleanings, loosen the laces and open up the shoe as much as possible. Sprinkle the inside with dry baking soda. Allow the baking soda to work for at least four hours, overnight is better. Shake out the baking soda before wearing.

Air-Dry the Sneakers

Allow the shoes to air-dry completely before wearing. To help high-tops keep their shape while drying, stuff them with white tissue paper. If the shoes are quite damp, change the paper after an hour. When the shoes are dry, relace the sneakers.

WARNING

The Converse website warns that its sneakers should not be machine-washed or dried under any circumstances.

How to Clean Suede Converse Sneakers

Clean or Replace the Laces

Remove the laces from the shoes and clean them as recommended above or replace them.

Remove Excess Soil

If your suede sneakers are covered with mud or are wet, allow them to air-dry completely before you attempt to remove the soil. Use a soft-bristled brush to clean the sole. Do not brush the suede with a toothbrush or scrub brush.

Clean the Exterior Suede and Sole

Suede should be completely dry and only brushed with a specialty suede brush to remove dirt from the suede leather. If there are oily stains, sprinkle them with cornstarch. Allow the cornstarch to remain on the suede for several hours to absorb the oil, then brush it away. Repeat until all of the oil is absorbed.

Use a damp melamine sponge or cloth to clean the outer sole.

Clean the Interior of the Sneakers

Follow the same cleaning tips for canvas and leather sneakers to clean the inside of suede sneakers.

Air-Dry the Shoes

After cleaning, allow the shoes to air-dry. Once the interior and exterior of the suede sneakers are completely dry, use the suede brush to lift the nap.

Tips to Keep Your Converse Sneakers Clean Longer

Allow the sneakers to air-dry between every wearing to allow the fibers to recover.
Clean or replace laces often.
Treat canvas sneakers with a fabric protective spray that will help repel soil.
Store Converse sneakers in a breathable cotton bag to prevent dust from settling on the shoes.

How to Clean Your Bathroom in 5 Steps

admin — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 02:09:27 +0000

A bathroom gets lots of use and is usually one of the most dreaded rooms to clean. But, it actually can be one of the simplest to clean, as almost all bathroom surfaces are impermeable to stains and stand up well to cleaning products.

By following these five steps, you can have a clean bathroom in no time. Read on for our guide to cleaning your bathroom.

How Often to Clean a Bathroom

A bathroom should be thoroughly cleaned at least once a week to reduce bacteria and odors. However, by spending less than five minutes each day, that weekly cleaning can take just 15 to 20 minutes. Do these simple tasks every day:

Wipe down the sink and countertop with a quick spray of your preferred disinfecting cleaner and a cleaning cloth.
Quickly wipe down the toilet handle and seat with a disinfectant wipe.
Return all items to their proper spot instead of leaving them scattered across the counter.
Use a squeegee or a towel to dry shower enclosures or the bathtub.
Hang towels to dry and place all dirty laundry in a hamper.

Instructions

How to Clean Your Bathroom

Clear the Surfaces

The bathroom will be easier to clean if you clear items from the surfaces.

- Pick up any towels, bath rugs, or laundry that is on the floor and put them in a hamper.
- Clear the vanity countertop as much as possible
- Gather and remove the products in the shower or sitting along the edge of the tub.
- Remove the trashcan and any decorative items.

Start Dry and at the Top

Removing dust and loose dirt from surfaces will make cleaning easier. No need to push that dirt around.

Use a disposable duster to dust light fixtures and the bathroom exhaust fan.
Dust off the shower rod or top of the enclosure and towel bars.
Dust the window sills, door frames and trim, and baseboards.
Dust the top of the toilet tank, shelves, and counters.
Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove hair and loose dirt.

Let the Cleaning Products Do Their Job

You will have less scrubbing to do if you let the cleaning products do their job first. They need time to work before you start scrubbing.

Spray the shower/tub so the cleaning product can begin the process of breaking the bond between the soap scum and the surfaces.
Add the toilet cleaner to the bowl.

Clean Each Room Surface

Start by cleaning the vanity countertop, the sink(s), and faucet hardware with an all-purpose bathroom cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Don’t forget to check and clean the front of the vanity or sink for smudges and dirt. Replace any products you removed before starting to clean.
Use a glass cleaner and a lint-free microfiber cleaner to clean the mirror.
Go back to the shower/tub area and scrub the walls, floor/tub, and plumbing fixtures. Rinse well. Don’t forget the shower door track if you have one and for a glass enclosure, use a squeegee or towels to dry it completely so there will be no water spotting. Replace any shower products you removed before cleaning the area.
Now, scrub the toilet. Use a brush and scrub the bowl and under the bowl rim. Use disinfecting wipes to clean the handle, seat, and outside of the toilet.

Tips

If you haven’t cleaned the bathroom for quite some time, learn how to tackle and solve these problem areas:

Heavy soap scum
Mildew on grout
Mildewed shower curtains
Toilet bowl stains
Rust stains on bathroom surfaces

Mop the Floor

Use the appropriate floor cleaner for your bathroom floor (wood, ceramic tile, natural stone) and mop the floor.

Allow it to dry and replace the trash can, freshly washed towels and bath rugs, and decor.

Tips to Keep a Bathroom Clean Longer

Wipe down the sink to remove toothpaste splatters and dirt daily.
Dry the shower stall and doors with a towel or squeegee after every use to prevent water spots and mildew growth.
Clean out medicine cabinets, vanity drawers, and cabinets at least seasonally to get rid of expired and half-used products.
Install extra towel bars to keep wet towels off the floor.
Wipe down frequently touched surfaces like door knobs, light switches, and toilet handles daily with a disinfecting wipe.

Cleaning & Organizing

How to Make DIY Linen Spray

Before You Begin

Equipment / Tools

Materials

Mix Vodka and Essential Oil

Tip

Add Water and Pour Into Spray Bottle

Label the Spray Bottle (Optional)

Shake the Spray Bottle Prior to Use

Have a Roach Problem? Here’s How Much an Exterminator Will Cost You

How Much Is an Exterminator for Roaches?

Cost of Roach Treatments

Best Roach Exterminators Near You

Terminix

5 Easy Habits to Help Keep Your Home Clutter-Free

MEET THE EXPERT

Get Rid of It

Be Mindful of Purchases

Change Your Habits

Look at Storage Choices

Create Cleaning Rituals

The 9 Dirtiest Places in Your Kitchen

Any Knobs, Handles, and Touch Pads

Sink

Sponges, Brushes, and Dishcloths

Refrigerator

Cutting Boards

Coffee Maker, Blender, & Small Appliances

Reusable Lunch Boxes, Shopping Bags, & Water Bottles

Countertops

Salt and Pepper Shakers

How to Rid Your Entire Home of Dust

How Often Should You Dust Your Home?

Equipment / Tools

Dusting Tools

Materials

Cleaning Products

Instructions

How to Rid Your Home of Dust

Gather the Right Supplies

Tip

Work from Ceiling to Floor

Use a Canister Vacuum When Possible

Tip

Use Microfiber on Glass Surfaces As Well

Go All the Way Down to Your Baseboards

Clean Out Your Pantry in 4 Easy Steps

How Often to Clean Out Your Pantry

Equipment / Tools

Materials

Instructions

How to Clean Out Your Pantry

Empty the Pantry Shelves

Tip

Clean the Pantry Storage Space

Sort the Items in the Pantry

Sort the Items in the Pantry

Tips to Keep Your Pantry Clean Longer

How to Organize a Shed

Know What You Have

Cut Out the Clutter

Group Your Belongings

Invest in Proper Storage

Keep Your Shed Tidy

How to Unclog a Drain With Baking Soda and Vinegar

Equipment / Tools

Materials

How to Unclog a Drain with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Heat Boiling Water

Pour Boiling Water and Dish Soap Into Drain

Pour Baking Soda Into the Drain

Follow With Vinegar

Flush With More Hot Water

How to Clean a Clogged Drain With Salt and Baking Soda

Pour Baking Soda Into the Drain

Pour Salt Into the Drain

Flush With Boiling Water

Flush With Tap Water

How Often to Clean Your Drains