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12 easy bathroom cleaning tips to try today

With frequent use, the bathroom can accumulate germs and bacteria, increasing the risk of health conditions like urinary tract infections and salmonellosis. Hence, bathroom cleaning is a crucial everyday household chore. Luckily, the market has various products and equipment that facilitate easy cleaning and improved hygiene in the bathroom. Besides using these products, you can try home remedies to eliminate dirt and germs. Here are some bathroom cleaning tips for a spick-and-span bathroom. Use a pumice stone to remove hard stains Hard stains spoil the bathroom's appeal and are often difficult to remove. One helpful way to eliminate them is by rubbing them with pumice stones. Remember, the toilet bowl and the area around it are more prone to accumulating bacteria and germs over time and are typical hotspots for hard stains. You can use a pumice stone to clean these areas and remove stubborn stains. Use different sponges for every surface A sponge is an excellent absorbent of dust, bacteria, and other tiny particles. But using the same sponge to clean different surfaces only transfers the accumulated dust from one place to another. To avoid this, use different sponges for cleaning different bathroom surfaces. Clean the toothbrush holder regularly According to a study by the National Sanitation Foundation, the toothbrush holder is the third grimiest and germ-filled area in a home. Toothbrushes are typically wet when placed into the holder after use. Consequently, they tend to drip inside the holder, causing it to become a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. Hence, cleaning the toothbrush holder should be a regular part of your sanitation routine. Use vinegar and baking soda to unblock the basin Many homeowners purchase expensive bleaches and call plumbers frequently to unblock the basin or sink. However, it is unnecessary to spend on the process, as vinegar and baking soda can do the trick. To try this remedy, pour half a cup of vinegar into the sink, followed by half a box of baking soda. Then plug the drain and hold it in place till the fizzing stops. Next, pour some boiling water into the sink after half an hour if required. This is a hassle-free, time-saving, and cost-effective method to unblock the sink drain. Use different cleaning products for different surfaces Each bathroom surface has a different texture and, thus, a distinct cleaning requirement. For example, mild cleaners work best on bathtubs and tiles, whereas abrasive cleaners work best to remove scum or mold on durable surfaces. Avoid using abrasive cleaners on delicate surfaces like glass, plastic, and ceramic. Wipe cleansers immediately from surfaces Spray-and-go cleaners are highly effective in removing dirt from surfaces. However, leaving them on for long can cause them to turn sticky and accumulate bacteria and germs. To avoid these issues, wipe off spray-and-go cleansers within two minutes. Use lemon and baking soda for the toilet bowl The key to a spotless toilet bowl does not lie in expensive cleaning products on the market shelves. Mixing lemon (or vinegar) with baking soda forms a highly acidic solution. This solution can remove hard stains and bacteria accumulated in the toilet bowl and even the sink or bathtub. As mentioned, you can also use a pumice stone to remove stains in the bowl. Remember to clean the exhaust fan The exhaust fan helps eliminate foul smells and purify the air. However, it does the opposite when unclean, blocking air from passing through the duct and leading to mold and mildew in the bathroom. So, do not forget the exhaust fan the next time you begin cleaning the bathroom. Wash the shower curtain The shower curtains are often neglected during the bathroom cleaning process. Since the bathroom contains high moisture levels, mildew and mold may accumulate over their surface. Hence, experts recommend washing shower curtains at least four times a year. Clean the toilet brush thoroughly Not cleaning bathroom equipment can result in the accumulation of bacteria and germs over them, making the cleaning process futile. The toilet brush should be soaked in a bleach or ammonia solution for an hour, preferably after every cleaning session. Clean the corners The corners of the bathroom trap large proportions of dust and dirt; hence, cleaning them is essential to facilitate a spick-and-span bathroom. When cleaning the corners, use narrow brushes with long handles that can easily maneuver through small spaces. Avoid cluttering the bathroom Clutter leads to confusion and chaos, which can make cleaning cumbersome. So, organize your bathroom products and de-clutter the space before cleaning. As you clean, dispose unused of products that take up unnecessary space on the shelves. Today, many cleaning brands offer discount coupons on their products to attract customers and ensure cost-effectiveness. Clorox is one such brand with safe and practical solutions to facilitate a clean and germ-free bathroom. Some of their best products include the Automatic Toilet Bowl Cleaner, the Disinfecting ToiletWand® Disposable Toilet Cleaning System, and the Clorox Clinical™ Germicidal Cleaner + Bleach. You can save considerably by signing up for Clorox bathroom cleaning coupons. These can be accessed by creating an account on the official Clorox website.

9 easy lawn care hacks to save time

A lush green lawn forms an excellent first impression of a home in the eyes of guests and visitors. It also performs several practical functions, such as erosion prevention, flood control, and air cooling during summer. However, caring for and maintaining the lawn is essential for reaping these benefits. Lawn maintenance need not be a cumbersome task. Here are a few clever lawn care hacks to save you time and effort. Replace the traditional lawn mower with a mulching one Traditional lawn mowers toss mulch onto the lawn or into a bag, where the waste accumulates until disposed of. In contrast, mulching mowers cut the grass blades finely and deposit them back onto the surface, which helps keep the lawn moist. They also offer a hassle-free and efficient waste-disposal solution, saving you time. Use basic kitchen ingredients for pest and weed control The solutions to pest and weed control lie in your kitchen! It might be hard to believe, but simple ingredients can save you time and money while being highly effective in protecting your lawn. For example, a solution of white vinegar mixed with a cup of salt and a tablespoon of liquid dishwashing detergent can curb the growth of weeds. Alternatively, you may sprinkle some salt on weed-prone areas or pour boiling water over the weeds to destroy them. Corn gluten meal is commonly used to prevent crabgrass from growing in lawns. Furthermore, coffee grounds may be sprinkled across the lawn to ward off pests instantly. Placing plastic forks and cutlery in the garden may also deter pests. Prepare compost at home Compost can considerably increase the nutritional value of the soil and the quality of plants and crops grown on the lawn. It can also reduce the need to spray excessive fertilizers on plants. While many purchase compost from stores, you can create it at home by installing a compost bin. All you have to do is add biodegradable waste to this bin. It could be fruit and vegetable peels, paper, grass blades and clippings, coffee grounds, or even sawdust. The bin will turn the waste into mulch for your lawn over time. As a result, you save time disposing of waste and the money you would spend on purchasing compost. Sharpen mower blades Sharp mower blades reduce the number of attempts taken before the grass is mowed. It is among the most clever lawn care hacks that can save you considerable time and effort and ensure effective lawn maintenance. Seek professional help when required Caring for the lawn is a time-consuming, albeit rewarding, process. If you are preoccupied with work or household chores, hire a professional to maintain the lawn rather than neglect the space. Although professional lawn care services may require you to spend a certain amount, it is a better choice than leaving the lawn unattended for long periods. Spread a bed sheet over plants for frost protection Many homeowners bring potted plants indoors during frost. If you find it challenging to accommodate plants indoors due to space crunch, cover them with a blanket or bed sheet. But use this technique only during severe frost, as the lawn's visual appeal may be lost if constantly concealed. Alternatively, you can cover plants with Styrofoam cups. It is a popular frost-protection technique used in certain parts of the country. Use this hack in less windy conditions, as these cups may not be resilient to winds. Avoid overwatering plants Like underwatering can deprive plants of essential nutrition and stunt their growth, overwatering can also harm their development. It can cause the leaves to turn yellow and lead to stunted plant growth, requiring significant effort to rectify later. Of course, overwatering could also increase your water bill. An inch of water every week is sufficient for lawn grass to thrive. Use a thick layer of newspaper to destroy weeds A quick hack to eliminate weeds at their incipient stages is to destroy them with a thick layer of newspaper. Moisten the newspaper and position it over the weeds so no sunlight seeps in. The weeds should be successfully destroyed within two weeks. This technique is time-saving, as you need not wait till the weeds grow to destroy them. Use drip irrigation Drip irrigation is an effective method to conserve water and ensure regular watering even when you are away from home. It does away with the need to find someone to tend to the lawn in such situations. Drip irrigation systems are also affordable and easy to install. They supply water directly to the roots, ensuring healthy growth. Besides following these clever lawn care hacks, knowing the best practices for effective lawn maintenance is essential. For example, lawn grass requires intermittent deep watering. Shallow watering or watering at extremely frequent intervals can give rise to plant diseases and stunted growth. Fertilizers should also be used only as much as required (preferably natural and DIY fertilizer feeds). Finally, opting for professional lawn-mowing services is a good idea if you are a novice or require help maintaining your lawn or garden.

13 easy home improvement hacks to try today

Embarking on a home improvement project can be both exciting and daunting. By tapping into your creativity, you can transform various rooms and objects in your house, giving them a fresh new look. The home improvement hacks we've listed here will help you achieve remarkable results while saving time, money, and effort. They're easy to follow, whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a novice looking to spruce up your living space. Create an illusion of space with mirrors An easy and effective way to make a room feel more spacious is to place mirrors in it strategically. Mirrors can instantly enhance the perceived size of any room by reflecting natural light and creating an illusion of depth. Consider installing a large mirror opposite a window or incorporating mirrored tiles into your backsplash to amplify the impact. Paint the walls Paint is a cost-effective tool that can completely transform the look and feel of a room. For example, you can opt for lighter shades to make a small room appear larger or experiment with bold accent walls to add a touch of drama. It all depends on your preferences and needs. Use a chalkboard or magnetic paint for added functionality in the kids' rooms. Upgrade the cabinets Want to update your kitchen or bathroom on a budget? Just touch up the cabinet hardware. Replacing outdated knobs and pulls with stylish and modern alternatives can give your cabinetry a fresh and contemporary look. This simple change can breathe new life into the entire space. Incorporate smart home technology Smart home technology can streamline your daily household routines, so incorporate it into your renovation design if you haven't already done so. Programmable thermostats, intelligent lighting systems, and home security cameras will not only enhance comfort, energy efficiency, and security but also add aesthetics to the house. What's more? Smart home technology lets you remotely control various appliances and systems from anywhere! Revamp the entryway You can enhance your home's curb appeal by revamping the entryway. A fresh coat of paint on the front door or an addition as simple as a stylish doormat can instantly elevate the appearance of the exterior. You can also consider adding potted plants or installing outdoor lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Upgrade the bathroom You don't have to break the bank to transform the bathroom. Tiny changes like replacing outdated faucets, showerheads, and towel bars with modern alternatives can make all the difference. If you have a bigger budget though, consider re-grouting the tiles, applying a fresh coat of paint, or installing a stylish mirror to add a touch of luxury and sophistication. These changes can instantly uplift the look of the space. Embrace open shelving Open shelving is among the most reliable home improvement hacks for maximizing storage and adding character to the house. You can install floating shelves in the living areas to organize books, plants, and decorative items while creating a visually appealing display. Removing cabinet doors to display glassware or chinaware can also add a touch of sophistication. Harness the power of lighting Well-planned lighting can significantly impact the ambiance and functionality of any space. You can install dimmer switches to adjust the lighting intensity according to your needs and strategically place mirrors or light-colored surfaces to reflect and amplify natural light. Repurpose and upcycle Give old furniture or decorative items a new life by repurposing or upcycling them. You can sand, paint, and reupholster worn-out pieces to match the existing décor. Some people love experimenting to find unconventional uses for specific items. For example, a vintage ladder can be turned into a bookshelf, and a wooden block from a fallen tree in the backyard can become a coffee table. Prioritize organization and storage Investing in smart storage solutions can help you to maintain a clutter-free and organized home. Under-bed storage bins, wall-mounted shelves, and organizers like cascading hangers and drawer dividers are excellent space-saving storage options. You can create a more functional and visually appealing living environment by prioritizing organization. Fill up the nail holes Exposed and unused nail holes in the wall can ruin your home's aesthetics. So, cover them with unused crayons or a towel, or get creative by drawing artwork around them. Alternatively, reuse the holes to hang a new painting that goes well with the wall. Repurpose old wellies into charming planters Instead of throwing away old, worn-out wellies or boots, convert them into planters. These weathered footwear pieces can add a touch of charm and character to the garden or outdoor space and reduce waste. Simply fill them with soil and plant your favorite flowers or herbs! Exploit underutilized areas Consider transforming underutilized areas in the house into storage spaces or reading nooks. If you have the budget, hire a skilled handyperson to help you access hidden places within the house. The expert can help you design and construct storage compartments in underutilized areas, such as wall corners, garage ceiling rafters, attics, crawl spaces, or under stairwells, maximizing available space. It will offer a long-term storage solution tailored to your home's layout and requirements.

9 easy ways to eliminate garden weeds

Weeds are every gardener's nightmare. These intrusive plants compete with desired vegetation for vital resources and can hinder the overall health and aesthetics of one’s garden. While chemical herbicides are commonly used to combat weeds, they often come with environmental and health risks. In this article, we will explore natural and eco-friendly methods to control weeds so one can maintain a healthy and vibrant garden without compromising on other aspects of life. Use mulching technique Mulching with a few inches of organic material prevents weed from contacting the soil, inhibiting germination. The mulch also blocks sunlight, preventing existing seeds from sprouting. Organic mulches offer weed control, moisture retention, soil enrichment, and aesthetic benefits, enhancing the overall appeal of your garden or landscape. Corn gluten meal This acts as a seed contraceptive, restricting the germination of weed seeds. Applying it to open areas of one’s garden can prevent weeds from growing. However, one should keep in mind that corn gluten meal may also hinder the germination of desired seeds. So it's best to avoid using this method in a vegetable garden. Hand weeding Manually pulling out the unplanted plants by hand is another traditional method of eliminating weeds. Taking them out along with roots ensures that the weeds do not grow out again. The task requires one to dedicate some time, effort, and some level of skill. To prevent weed seeds from spreading to one’s garden beds, it is important to wear specialized gardening gloves. One can also utilize tools like claws or sharp trowels to loosen the soil where the weeds have taken roots. This method ensures a weed-free garden and avoids the need for chemical herbicides. Apply vinegar One can spray household vinegar to the weeds and use as a natural weed killer. This technique however requires careful application since the vinegar can affect both unwanted plants and desirable ones. To avoid harming nearby plants, it is best to apply the vinegar in the early morning when there is minimal wind. Additionally, one can choose a cloudless day to ensure that rain does not wash away the vinegar before it has a chance to be effective. One can also consider using highly concentrated vinegar for quicker results. Layering newspaper To create a weed-free garden bed, one can use recycled materials like newspapers or cardboard. The first step to employ this technique is to wet the newspaper and cover it with mulch. Then lay the papers on the soil to smother existing weeds and prevent new ones. The thick layer blocks sunlight and stops weed seeds from sprouting. Prior to laying the material, make sure to remove visible weeds and moisten the soil. This method also attracts earthworms that can be beneficial to the soil. Boiling water One can eliminate unwanted weeds by pouring boiling water carefully over each weed. The intense heat of the boiling water damages the foliage, plant cells, and roots of the weeds, thus thwarting their growth. Some persistent weeds may require multiple applications, but they will eventually die out. However, one needs to be careful with this process. It’s best to use pot holders and wear long pants and shoes to avoid injury in case of accidental spills. Flaming method This is a targeted approach to single out the weeds. In this method, one uses a flaming torch that heats up the water inside the plant cells until they burst and the plants wilts. The technique, however, requires extreme caution. One needs to choose a day without wind to avoid accidentally harming nearby grass or plants. Also, it is best used in places where there is no nearby vegetation, such as the driveways or gaps in a concrete sidewalk. It is important to note that flaming should never be used in regions prone to fires, to prevent any potential hazards. This method works well for young and tender weeds. Matured and rooted weeds may require multiple treatments. Using a landscape fabric Landscape fabric is another popular tool that can combat weed growth. The modern fabric acts as a barrier and minimizes weed competition for space while allowing air and water to pass through to the desired plants. For optimal weed suppression, one needs to lay the fabric from border to border with minimal cuts or openings. Be very careful with the placement and maintenance of the fabric, and also inspect it from time to time to ensure its effectiveness. Sprinkling salt at the base This is another technique where a small amount of salt is sprinkled at the base of each weed. Salt dehydrates the unwanted plants by absorbing water from their cells and alters the pH and mineral balance in the soil. This causes the weeds to dry out, get starved of nutrients, and eventually die. While the technique is useful, one can opt for this as a last resort since it can leave the soil unsuitable for months. Even if one decides to use the technique, one needs to be careful to not use excessive salt or spill it on to the plants one wants to keep. All these techniques promote sustainability. If none of them yield the desired results, however, one can consider contacting a local extension office or city government for guidance on natural weed killers and their safe usage in weed control.

14 floor and foundation repair methods for a sturdy base

It is impossible to imagine sleeping comfortably on beds or walking about one’s home without floors and foundations. Failing to repair damages in the floor or foundation of a structure can result in problems like water seepage, framing issues, and deep wall cracks. Thus, one must repair such damages through tried-and-tested methods to avoid further deterioration and ensure habitable conditions. Here are some common and effective floor and foundation repair services and methods: Steel pressed pilingIn this process, steel piles are inserted into the ground through a hydraulic ram, which is a cylindrical water pump powered by hydropower. In some cases, hollow steel piles are filled with concrete to provide additional support to the piles and alleviate the risks posed by erosion. Steel-pressed piling is simple, hassle-free, and effective and is typically not time-consuming. Slab jackingSlab jacking refers to elevating one side of a concrete slab from below. This process results in re-leveling of the slab and typically takes some hours to complete. Nowadays, polyurethane foam, as opposed to mud or concrete, is the preferred substance used to raise concrete in the slab-jacking process. Slab jacking requires specialized equipment and should be undertaken only by professionals with considerable experience in the activity. Crack sealingSealing cracks is a temporary solution to the foundation and floor damage. Adhesive sealants are typically used to fill up the cracks on the pavement surface. However, crack sealing should not be a permanent resort; it is an effective method to prevent further damage until other permanent procedures like steel-pressed piling are employed. Soil modificationSoil modification is a process in which gaps in soil layers are filled with chemical substances to facilitate soil stability and stiffness. The process is similar to slab jacking; however, it requires considerable expertise and should be carried out only by trained professionals. Moreover, it is more expensive than other foundation-repair methods and requires high maintenance. Resin insertionThis is a type of grouting used for repairing underground pipes or tunnels. This process is used to repair cracked concrete surfaces, particularly those caused by water leakage. However, the cost involved in this process is considerably high; therefore, it is usually not employed to fix shallow or pattern cracks. As a temporary solution, crack sealing is a more economical method to fill up cracks. Gravity filling methodThis technique is among the most basic crack-filling methods, wherein gravity-filling machines fill gaps in floor surfaces. These machines have basic designs and are easy to use, contributing to the popularity of this technique. Furthermore, gravity fillers do not employ a recirculating mechanism and do not require expertise. Concrete pressed pilingIn this process, deep holes are drilled into the structure to be repaired, then filled with concrete, reinforcement, and, sometimes, precast concrete piles. This procedure involves low costs and does not require heavy equipment. However, avoiding this procedure as a long-term solution for cracked floors and foundations is advisable. Steel piersWhile installing steel piers is an excellent long-term solution, it is relatively expensive and is avoided by individuals with strict budget limits. The procedure involves inserting galvanized steel posts deep into the earth, allowing it to penetrate the foundation and reach the bedrock. The procedure may be carried out in any soil condition and is durable. Poured concrete piersHere, a deep hole is dug underneath the foundation and filled up with wet concrete. These concrete piers may be used in different soil conditions and are bell-bottom-shaped for additional support. ShimmingShimming involves shims, or small pieces of steel or other material, stacked until the stack attains the desired height. Shimming is a common process used to fill gaps in foundations and floors. These shims are durable and provide considerable support to foundations; hence, they effectively facilitate long-term foundation repair. Micro-topping treatmentsThese toppings are made of thin layers of polymer-modified concrete containing sand. They are applied to brushes or trowels and typically dry quickly; thus, this technique is time-saving and popular for foundation repair. However, the resulting texture of the surface depends on the expertise with which the micro-topping is applied to the floor. Typically, one can begin walking on the treated surface after about 42 hours from the time of application. Stamped concrete surface treatmentsThis procedure is commonly employed to treat external as well as internal floor surfaces. A thin layer of stamped concrete is applied to an existing slab, and a stamping tool is then used to texture the stamped concrete layer, ensuring that the layer resembles brick or tiled surface. A coat of concrete sealer is applied as the final step. Dry packingDry packing involves manually placing a mortar with low water content, followed by ramming the mortar into place. The low water content ensures that the surface is durable and prevents shrinkage. Helical piersHelical piers, also called screw piles or anchors, are installed to repair fragile foundations and support weak structures. These piers may be used to repair various types of damage, including cracks on interior plaster walls, uneven floors, leaning chimneys, and popping up of nails on the ceiling. They may also be used to repair industrial floors.

8 cleaning tips for a spotless home

Our physical and emotional health depends on maintaining a tidy and orderly home. However, it can be a difficult and stressful chore if you need to know where to begin or how to clean effectively. We'll review everything you need to know to make cleaning a breeze, including tips. Read on to learn some easy and practical cleaning tips to help keep your house tidy and healthy, whether you're a cleaning specialist or just getting started. 8 cleaning tips that will make your life easierMaintaining a clean and orderly home can be difficult, especially if you have a large family or are extremely busy. However, using these six cleaning tips, you can make the process simpler and more effective. Use a cleaning caddyKeeping your cleaning products in one location is easy with a cleaning caddy. This simplifies transport and eliminates the need to travel back and forth to gather supplies. Clean from top to bottomStarting at the top of the room and working your way down will prevent dust and other particles from falling into already-cleaned areas. Additionally, minimizing needless cleaning saves time. Use a microfiber clothUnlike conventional fabrics, microfiber cloths are better at catching dust and dirt. They are more sustainable because they are also recyclable and environmentally friendly. Wash the bathroom rugsBathroom rugs are one of the hotspots of bacteria. They should be washed every two to three weeks. Look for washing instructions on the label of the rug, and wash the rug following those instructions. Laundry rugs can usually be washed with a mild laundry detergent. Get rid of clutterClutter can elongate and complicate the cleaning process. You may save time and reduce the hassle of cleaning by setting items away and decluttering your environment each day for a few minutes. Use baking soda and vinegarThese natural cleaning solutions are good at removing stains and odors. They are a more environmentally friendly choice because they are non-toxic and safe for the environment. Sanitize the garbage canThe trash can get pretty dirty even if you use the liner bag. It is important to clean it properly. Start by emptying the can, then remove any food particles or garbage pieces you see at the bottom of the can. Then move on to thoroughly rinsing the can. After the can is rinsed, scrub the can using a disinfectant spray. Rinse again and dry. Clean as you goPrevent the accumulation of dirt and mess. Spills and blemishes should be cleaned up as soon as they occur to prevent subsequent difficulty in cleaning. In the long term, this saves time and effort. The importance of a clean placeNot only is it pleasing to the eye to have a clean and organized place, but it is also beneficial to our physical and mental health. Addressing cleaning tips is necessary for the following reasons: Reduces the risk of illnessA messy and cluttered home can be a breeding ground for bacteria, germs, and allergens that can lead to various health issues. Decluttering and cleaning the house lowers the risk of illness. You and your family may stay healthy by doing routine cleaning and disinfection tasks. Enhances indoor air qualityPoor ventilation in homes can lead to worse indoor air pollution than outdoor pollution. Pollutants, including dust, mold, and others, can gather in the air and harm respiratory systems. The indoor air quality can be improved with routine dusting and cleaning. Reduces stress and anxietyMess and clutter can lead to stress and anxiety, harming one's mental health. A neat and organized home can encourage calmness and relaxation. Creates a welcoming environmentA clean, well-kept home makes an excellent first impression on visitors. It can raise its worth if you intend to sell your house. Maintaining a clean and orderly home is crucial for productivity, well-being, and health. Regular organizing and cleaning can make your home more cozy and inviting for you and your family to enjoy. You can make cleaning less of a chore and more of a breeze by implementing the above-mentioned cleaning tips into your regular practice. You'll save time and energy, and your home will appear cleaner and more organized. Cleaning essentials: A must-have for everyoneYou'll need a few essential cleaning items to make the job quicker and more effective. The following are some indispensable cleaning items you ought to keep on hand for effective cleaning: Multipurpose cleanerAn all-purpose cleaner is a multifunctional cleaning agent that may be applied to various surfaces in your house. It is perfect for cleaning surfaces, including countertops, sinks, etc. Vacuum cleanerA vacuum cleaner is needed for cleaning floors, carpets, and upholstery. A model with attachments for cleaning difficult-to-reach spaces like nooks and crevices is what you should seek. Mop and bucketFloor-cleaning equipment such as a mop and bucket is necessary. Choose a mop that is simple to use and has a replaceable or washable detachable head. Scrub brushUse a scrub brush to clean grout, tile, and other difficult-to-clean surfaces. Choose one that can remove difficult stains by having firm bristles. Although it can be difficult, maintaining a clean and orderly home is crucial for a comfortable and healthy living space. You can make cleaning quicker and more effective by implementing the cleaning tips mentioned above. You can keep your home clean and organized and reap the advantages of a comfortable and healthy living environment with little effort and persistence.

Cleaning hacks to revamp home and kitchen appliances

As vital as appliances are in our daily lives, cleaning them is a daunting task most of us want to avoid. From microwaves to refrigerators, these appliances can accumulate grime, dirt, and bacteria over time, making them less efficient. However, cleaning household appliances doesn’t necessarily have to be a chore. As long as you use some smart cleaning hacks, you will be done with hours of hard work in a fraction of the time! Easy appliance cleaning hacks to try at home For a stainless dishwasher Dishwashers can accumulate mineral and food debris buildup over time. This causes the appliance to perform poorly and develop unpleasant odors. Start off the dishwasher cleaning process by getting rid of the debris at the bottom. Make use of a highly recommended appliance cleaning hack at your home by keeping a cup of vinegar on the top rack. Run the dishwasher on its hottest cycle. After that is done, sprinkle some baking soda at the bottom and run another hot cycle. Voila! You will have a dishwasher that's good as new. For a sparkly clean oven Like dishwashers, ovens are prone to accumulating food debris, grease, and unpleasant smells. Put together a mixture of water and baking soda to form a paste. Apply it to the inside of the oven and let it sit for a few hours, even overnight. The next day, use a damp cloth to get rid of the paste and the debris it has successfully loosened. If you come across any tougher stains, use a scraper to get them out. For a rejuvenated coffee maker Coffee makers are prone to having coffee residue and mineral buildup, decreasing the drink's flavor and adding an unpleasant odor. Fill the reservoirs of your coffee maker with equal parts of vinegar and water to run a cycle. Once that is done, run another cycle of the coffee maker with water to rinse out any vinegar residue. Finally, run a final cycle with some used coffee grounds to deodorize and freshen up the machine. For a clean blender Blenders can be a difficult appliance to clean, especially if you use them to blend oily or sticky substances. Luckily, cleaning the blender is fairly easy; simply blend a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar for a few seconds. Once done, rinse it with clean water and wipe it dry. For a clear microwave A microwave is a common kitchen appliance that makes life easier for a lot of us. However, due to the frequency of its usage, it can quickly become stained and dirty. Mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a microwave-safe container for a clean and shiny microwave. Place it in the appliance and turn it on for about five minutes. Let it sit inside and cool for another five to ten minutes. After that, take a toothbrush you wouldn't mind parting with and use it to scrub the inside of the microwave. Wipe it all down with a clean cloth, followed by a final wipe with a clean, dry cloth. For a magic refrigerator cleaner Refrigerators are one of the most frequently used appliances in any home, meaning they can quickly be covered in food spills, stains, and debris. Start off your fridge cleaning task by pulling out all its ingredients, including shelves, drawers, and organizers. Once you’ve done that, mix a cup of water and a cup of vinegar and pour this mixture into a spray bottle. Soak the inside of the fridge by spraying the solution. Next, take a damp napkin, sprinkle some baking soda on it, and use this sponge to scrub the fridge. Once it looks spotless, wipe down the fridge with a clean dry cloth and replace its contents. For stain-less stainless steel We select stainless steel appliances for their endurance and sleek appearance. They add a modern touch to the kitchen, but that comes at a cost. These appliances can be a challenge to maintain. A simple hack that can help keep stainless steel clean is by making a paste of cream of tartar by mixing it with water. Use a microfiber cloth to scoop up some of this paste and get scrubbing. You can have a go at all of your appliances, including the hand blender and refrigerator. Once done, rinse it off with water and then wipe it dry with a clean cloth. For a fresh air filter Air conditioners are breeding grounds for dust and debris and the health concerns they can give rise to. It can also cause the air conditioners to deliver less cooling combined with an unpleasant odor. Start the cleaning process by unplugging the air conditioner. Take out the air filter and wash it clean with some soap and water. Make sure it is completely dry before you insert it back into the air conditioner. For a deodorized garbage disposal unit If you use a garbage disposal unit to dispose of leftover and waste food, it can potentially be a Pandora's box of foul odor. It can be impossible to live with that daily. This is why deodorizing your garbage disposal is crucial. All you have to do is cut a lemon in half, sprinkle some salt on it, put it into the disposal, and turn on the water and the unit for just a few seconds. Turn it all off and let the mixture sit for around 10 to 15 minutes. Next, turn it all on again to rinse off the solution.

9 common mistakes to avoid when buying a mattress

Buying a new mattress is not a choice you make on the fly. It requires some research, thought, consideration, and budgeting. It is, after all, an investment in your future sleep quality and health. However, like with everything else, there are too many options available that make committing mistakes easier. With so many choices available, knowing what you have to look for and the errors you need to avoid can be difficult. Buying without trying Buying a mattress without trying it out is one of the biggest mistakes anyone can make. Shopping for a mattress online could be inconvenient in this case. It is crucial to ensure the mattress is comfortable and supportive since you will be using the same one for a long time. When looking for a mattresses in a store, lie down on the mattress for at least 15-20 minutes to try it out. It will help you find the right mattress for your body type and sleep position. Choosing the wrong size Another common mistake people end up making when buying a new mattress is selecting the wrong-sized one. While it may be tempting to save some money by buying a smaller mattress, it is equally crucial to remember that it is a long-term investment. Choosing a mattress that does not compromise your sleep quality while also giving the occupants enough space to be comfortable is important. If you are unsure about the size of the mattress, you could consider measuring your current bed and the room to better understand the ideal choice. Focusing on the price alone While it's important to stay within your budget, it is also equally important to not solely focus on the price of the mattress. But if you keep too much of your focus on the price you might end up with a mattress that isn't very comfortable. Remember that you will be using the same mattress for several years; therefore, selecting one that provides you with support and comfort is important. So look for mattresses that offer good value with their price point in mind rather than selecting one that costs you the least. Not considering your sleeping position Your sleeping position is a crucial factor you need to consider when buying a new mattress. Different mattress designs are created to accommodate different sleeping positions. It is therefore important to choose one that provides the right kind of support for your body. If you are a side sleeper, look for a mattress that is soft enough to cushion your hips and shoulders but, at the same time, firm enough to support the spinal column. A firm mattress is essential for front and back sleepers as it helps keep the spine neutral. Ignoring your partner's needs If you share a bed, it is important to consider your partner's needs as well when buying a new mattress. Different people have different preferences. If you and your partner have the same preferences, you can buy a mattress without worrying. But if you have differing preferences, you want to choose a mattress that accommodates both of your needs. If either of you is a light sleeper, consider buying one that reduces motion transfer so that there is less disturbance throughout the night caused by the other person's movements. Buying without checking the warranty and return policy It is important to read the warranty terms and return policy before buying anything, including a new mattress. Ensure you completely understand what is covered in the warranty and the time period of its validity. While you are checking these things, also make sure that the return policy applies for at least a few days so that you can return the mattress if it's not the right fit. Most retailers offer a trial period for mattresses that allows you to test them out so that you are satisfied with your purchase. Not considering the materials used Different materials are used in the making of different mattresses. It is important to consider the materials that are used in the mattress before landing on a decision. A memory foam mattress, for example, offers excellent comfort and support but can retain heat. This makes memory foam mattresses uncomfortable for some people. Latex mattresses, on the other hand, are hypoallergenic with excellent support but can end up being pricier than most other options. Not considering the firmness level When buying a mattress, its firmness level is another important factor. A mattress that is too firm can cause pressure, while one that is too soft might lead to misalignment. When thinking about the firmness level of the mattress, also consider the type and needs of your body. A good rule of thumb is to choose a mattress that is firm enough to support your body but soft enough to contour to the natural curves. Not taking your time Getting a mattress might not be your biggest decision, but it is big nonetheless. You want to take your time and not rush the process. Take your time to research all your options, read reviews, and try out different mattresses before making a final purchase. Don't let anything make you feel pressured to decide on the spot. Instead, ask as many questions as you want and even take notes if that helps.