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4 DIY Carpet Cleaning Solutions for the Most Stubborn Stains
Spills are unavoidable if you have children and pets in your home. Muddy paw prints, sticky fingers, and spilled juice can ruin your new carpet, but not if you take action quickly. Our DIY carpet cleaning solutions can also work if you don’t want to use store-bought carpet cleaners.
Top 3 DIY Carpet Cleaning Solutions for Stubborn Stains
Here are some of the best DIY cleaning solutions you can use using simple household supplies:
1. Vinegar Cleaning Solutions
White vinegar is acidic enough to cut through tough stains, but don’t use it without diluting it first. Here are some standard cleaning mixtures you can try:
- Remove light carpet stains with a mixture of half a cup of white vinegar and two tablespoons of salt. Allow the solution to dry before vacuuming.
- To remove dark stains, mix two tablespoons of borax with half a cup of vinegar and two tablespoons of salt. Follow the same instructions.
- To remove paint spots and stains, make a cleaning solution of half a teaspoon of vinegar, one and a half teaspoons of laundry detergent, and two cups of water. Use it as soon as possible, so the fibres don’t absorb the paint. Rinse using cold water.
- To remove juice stains, use a cleaning solution of a tablespoon of laundry detergent, one and a half tablespoons of white vinegar, and two cups of water. Use a sponge to blot the stain and blot dry. Don’t rub!
- A mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar can remove caffeine stains.
2. Club Soda Mixture
Club soda is made of water, salts, and carbon dioxide, so it can remove most stubborn stains without damaging carpet fibres. It’s efficient for removing fading stains such as wine spills. Spray some club soda on the area, and the stain will disappear. Rinse the spot with water, place a few paper towels on it and add a weight on top, so the area dries completely.
Remember that this mixture may not work on all stains and can worsen some. Leave these to professional carpet cleaners.
3. Ice Cubes
You don’t have to take a pair of scissors to your carpet if chewing gum gets stuck to it. All you need is some ice cubes. Rub some on the spot to freeze the substance. Once it solidifies, pry it loose, and it won’t damage the fibres. Use a brush to clean leftover residue.
4. Baking Soda
Use baking soda to remove urine and vomit stains from your carpet. All you need to do is pour a generous amount over the stain till it is covered and pat with a paper towel—vacuum when the solution dries completely. Combine baking soda with salt to remove grease stains. Let it sit on the spot for four to five hours before vacuuming.
Use the aforementioned DIY carpet cleaning solutions to save your expensive rugs and money.
Best Winter Nursery Décor Ideas That Spark Joy and Add Warmth
Decorating your baby’s nursery is one of the most exciting times for you as a parent. With winter around the corner, use our winter nursery décor ideas to add warmth to the space.
Top 4 Winter Nursery Décor Ideas for Your Little One
Make your nursery a winter wonderland for your baby with these tips:
1. Use a Cool Colour Palette
If you are going for a gender-neutral look for your winter nursery, choose a cool colour palette such as whites, creams, and greys for the theme. For example, replace the bedding with soft options in greys and light blues and choose furniture with clean lines. Similarly, choose a dove grey cot or a simple one that doesn’t have frills or adornments.
2. Choose Warm Baby Bedding
Your baby will need warmer bedding during winter. In keeping with the winter theme, choose blankets and fitted sheets in neutral tones. You can also get baby sleeping bags that will swaddle your little one securely as he tosses and turns.
A cot can feel intimidating for tiny babies. While the space allows them to move around, they can easily kick off their blanket as they explore, which can prove dangerous when the temperature drops. So choose layers that will keep them snug as they move around. This includes vests or sleeping sacks with enclosed bottoms and open tops.
3. Add Soothing Lighting Options
Transform the nursery into a warm and welcoming environment to get through those cold, dark nights by adding soothing lighting options. Add a lamp, a night light that emits a soft glow, or side lighting options that create a cosy ambience. Also, consider textured rugs and heavy curtains that can block out sunlight and provide extra insulation.
Your aim should be to provide a comforting environment during feeding and bedtime. A nightlight will keep your little one calm in the middle of the night.
4. Maintain the Right Temperature
This isn’t a décor idea but a reminder not to ignore the nursery’s temperature while decorating it. You want it to be warm, not hot. The best temperature for this room is between 16° and 25°C.
The aforementioned bedding options can also help you maintain a comfortable temperature. Install a thermometer on the wall to be safe. Remember your comfort too. Place an extra blanket on the nursing chair in the nursery and a soft rug that can keep your feet warm. A soft, warm, and neutral rug can bring the winter décor together.
Whether you hire an interior decorator or ask someone else to help you with the décor, remember it’s YOUR baby’s nursery. Consider ideas you find appealing and comforting, not someone who has a different outlook than yours. You will spend a lot of your time in that space, so choose elements that bring you joy and comfort and warm you from the inside out.
Clean Wool Rugs in 7 Steps without Damage
Wool rugs are easier to clean if they have loose dirt or stains. If yours look worse for wear, a simple scrubbing will make them look as good as new.
Wool Rug Cleaning In X Steps
Follow these steps to clean your wool rug without damaging it:
Step 1 – Shake off The Dirt
On a sunny day, take your rug outside and shake it vigorously to loosen the dirt. If you have a clothesline outside, hang the rug and use a broom, stick, tennis racket, or anything sturdy to beat it. Also, remove the rug pad and clean the floor that it was covering.
Step 2 – Vacuum
Flip the rug over a flat surface, vacuum it, and then turn it over and vacuum the other side. Your kitchen floor or any dry area will also work.
Step 3 – Clean the Rug
If your rug is lightly soiled, give it a dry bath and if it is heavily soiled, use a gentle detergent to clean it:
Dry Bath
Sprinkle dry shampoo over the wool rug and let it sit for the recommended time mentioned in the instructions—vacuum when the time’s up.
Detergent Bath
A heavily soiled rug needs detergent. Fill your bucket with water and add a few tablespoons of wool-safe detergent. Make sure the cleaning solution is mild, and don’t use bleach, or the colours in your rug may bleed. Fill a second bucket with clean water.
Step 4 – Scrub away
Follow this step for wool rugs that need to be cleaned with detergent. After applying the cleaning solution, use a scrubbing brush on the rug, starting at one end. Work your way down, so you don’t miss a spot.
Step 5 – Rinse
Rinse the soapy rug with the clean water in the other bucket by dabbing each section. This is an essential step as it can prevent the fibres from attracting soil.
Step 6 – Blot
Blot the wet rug with clean, old towels to absorb excess moisture. Move the damp rug to a new spot and repeat till you have blotted it from top to bottom.
Step 7 – Dry
Once the rug isn’t soaking wet, place it back and speed up the drying process by hanging it or elevating it so air can circulate over it. An electric carpet cleaner can also remove excess moisture. Change the setting to vacuum without applying more cleaning solution, and then hang the rug to dry.
Hire Professional Cleaners to Save Time
Wool rugs are relatively easy to clean if you clean them regularly. Once a month or a few months at least. But some cleaning jobs can be challenging.
Consider hiring professional carpet cleaners if you have a packed schedule or your rugs get too much foot traffic for a cleaning solution to work. They have the machinery and robust cleaning agents to do a thorough job and make your carpet look brand new. They can also pick up and drop off the rugs for you.
Top 6 Windowsill Décor Ideas That Can Take Interior Design to the Next Level
Your windowsill doesn’t have to remain empty. Use our windowsill décor ideas to make it part of the décor.
Top 6 Windowsill Décor Ideas to Elevate Your Home’s Style
If your windowsill is narrow, add shelves so you can have ample room for the décor you have in mind.
Make this space productive using our décor tips:
1. Add Planters
Planters can add a personal touch whether your windowsill is inside or just outside. Bring living house plants or cactuses that don’t need much care if you have little time to spare. Go for slim planters that can fit on your windowsill, and ensure the plants are child and pet safe.
2. Add a Daybed Underneath
If you don’t want to place anything on your windowsill, consider adding a cosy daybed underneath you can lounge on. Make the space aesthetically pleasing with colourful cushions and a throw rug. Look for a bed that can come up to the windowsill so you can push it right underneath the window.
3. Add Tiny Figurines
What’s cuter than a line of tiny and cute figurines on your windowsill? Make a whole zoo with a tiny herd of elephants, giraffes, and other wild animals. Or decorate with figurines of your favourite characters. Go for dark colours that absorb heat, so these can do double duty as heat absorbers and won’t melt or get damaged by exposure.
4. Create a Reading Nook
If your windowsill is wide enough to accommodate books, make the area into a reading nook. Add a sofa underneath with pillows for comfort so you can curl up with your favourite book whenever you want to. The reading nook will create a peaceful ambiance and elevate the décor.
You can add a floating shelf underneath the sill to accommodate your extensive book collection or add succulents or other décor items.
5. Create an Attractive Workspace
If you are still working from home, and have a spacious window sill, convert it into an attractive workstation. Extend the surface if needed by pushing your desk against it and place all of your cute stationery on the windowsill to make it stand out. It will give the space a professional and also cohesive look.
6. Display Seasonable Fruit
Organic produce on a kitchen windowsill makes a statement. Whether you love to cook or need inspiring décor ideas to get those creative juices flowing, adding fruit artistically on the windowsill can tick both boxes.
Use round and brightly coloured fruit such as apples, melons, and oranges and pile them in an attractive basket before placing them on the windowsill. If your kitchen window gets a lot of sunlight, choose fruits that don’t spoil quickly.
Your windowsills don’t have to remain empty. Use them to introduce nature into your living space or add personal touches that can make your house feel like a home. Choose items that speak to you on a personal level to make the décor stand out.
Money Saving Tips That You Should Know
Almost everyone wants to save money. Whether you are depriving yourself of that 10-pound iced coffee or purchasing an older iPhone model, everyone has their own ways to cut down on their expenditure. However, only having that iced coffee once a week isn’t going to help in the long run. Sure, you aren’t spending as much. But how exactly are you saving the money you didn’t spend on the coffee?
Unless you have a proper plan in place to save your money, you’ll probably end wasting the 10 pounds you saved on some other senseless purchase. To prevent yourself from doing so, follow these effective money-saving tips.
Pay Off Your Debts
If you are trying to save money, your first step should be to do your best to pay off all your debts. No matter how much your budget is, a debt burden can put a huge dent in your finances. Just add up the costs of servicing your debt every month and see how quickly it adds up.
If you have debt, it would certainly be a good idea to put off that exotic vacation and cut down as much of your luxury expenditure as possible. Work your way to pay off your debt first. Once you’re done with the debt and its incurring interest, you can use start putting the money into saving while also enjoying little treats here and there.
Automate Your Saving
Making a mental note that you’d be saving 200 pounds every month may seem like an effective plan in theory, but it can be disastrous when put into practice. Instead, try to automate your savings to make sure that you don’t cheat yourself out of it.
A good way to do this is by opening a second saving account. Afterward, set up a recurring auto debit from your main account to this account on every payday. Whether you put in 100 pounds or 500 pounds, make a vow not to use this money (unless a dire need arises).
Shop Online
Going to the mall is one of the easiest ways to waste your hard-earned money. You may go for one thing and end up purchasing five other things that you don’t even need. Instead, consider shopping online, as there are various benefits to doing so.
For starters, you are much less likely to be exposed to things that you may or may not need. And if you practice a little self-control, you can just go on the website, buy what you need, and shut it down. Additionally, you are much more likely to come across discounts and vouchers online, which will further help you save money. If you’re looking for rugs or carpets,
Be Mindful About Energy Usage
One of the easiest ways to save money in the long run is to be mindful of your energy usage. It is no secret that your electricity bills make up a good chunk of your paycheck each month. Therefore, saving even small amounts of energy can be beneficial in the long run.
Make sure to switch off the lights and electric appliances when not in use, maintain a moderate temperature inside the house, add rugs to better insulate the house, and take all the small steps to reduce your energy consumption.
By following these money-saving tips, you will be able to save a considerable amount of money in the long run. And no, you don’t have to completely deny yourself the small pleasures of life, so don’t beat yourself up for that cold coffee every once in a while.
How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets
Renovating the kitchen can be a costly endeavour. Hence, most people go ages with upgrading their kitchens. However, there are budget-friendly ways to enhance your kitchen. Instead of spending a fortune on buying new cabinets, you can repaint your old ones to make them look as good as new.
And the best thing is that you can do it yourself. If you’re not sure about how to paint kitchen cabinets, read on.
Step-by-Step Guide on Painting Kitchen Cabinets
If you have wooden or laminate cabinets, follow these instructions to repaint them yourself.
- Before you start painting, purchase the appropriate type of paint for your cabinet. If you visit a good store, the salesperson will be able to guide you about the type of paint most suitable for your need. Make sure to get acrylic paint instead of vinyl, as it is more durable and long-lasting.
- Use some sandpaper to scuff the surface of the cabinets. If the paint can’t be scuffed off, the material may not be suitable for repainting. If the surface is in good condition, however, you may not have to remove the previous paint; you can just paint over it.
- In case you have laminate cabinets, you will have to purchase a special bonding primer. It creates a suitable surface for the paint to stick on laminate cabinets. Apply the primer on the surface of the cabinet.
- Start by painting the frames of the cabinet. If you’re also painting inside, start from the back and work your way outside. If you’re only painting outside, work from the back to the front. You may need a smaller brush to get into the corners and other detailed areas.
- Make sure to use even long strokes, or else the paint may not look professional.
- After covering the entire surface area, let it dry for about 24 hours.
- After the paint is completely dry, do a second coat by repeating steps 4 and 5.
- Allow the paint to dry for up to 2 to 3 days before you reassemble the kitchen. This will allow it enough time to dry completely.
See? It’s as simple as that. By just spending some money on paint and primer, you can get cabinets that look as good as new.
How to Get Planning Permission in the UK – What to Expect
Whether you want to renovate your bedroom, extend your home, build an office in your garden, or build a new house, you need planning permission from the appropriate authorities. But you don’t need that permission for every construction project.
When Do You Need Planning Permission?
You only need planning permission if the work meets ‘development’ standards per the Town and Country Planning Act of 1990. This includes:
- Engineering work
- Building work such as construction, demolition, structural changes, and rebuilding
- Mining work
- Land and building material changes
- Subdivision of a building to split it into two or more residential units
Work that does not come under development and, thus, doesn’t require planning permission includes the following:
- Interior changes. This does not include the mezzanine floors to increase the floor space of a retail establishment by more than 200 square meters
- Changes in the main usage of the building or land
- Building operations that do not alter the external appearance of the building
Types of Planning Permission You May Need
There are several types of planning permissions you may need, but the two main ones include the following:
Outline Planning Permission
If you want to build a house on a piece of land, you need an Outline Planning Permission. This is an application directed to local authorities stating your intent to construct a structure on the land so they can tell you what size the house should be.
This application doesn’t require a lot of details from your end. As per the name, you need to provide a brief project outline.
Full Planning Permission
Your local authority can tell you if you need Full Planning Permission. You need to apply for one via a form. Some of the projects you may need this permission for include the following:
- Demolitions
- Structural changes
- Building in your garden
- Increasing the size of your property with an extension
- Changing the main usage of a building
If you carry out work that requires planning permission without acquiring said permission, you can get an enforcement notice from your local authority.
This is a cease and desist order that will also force you to undo all developments made. It is illegal to ignore these orders.
Additional Permission
You may need additional permissions if your site is within protected areas, such as sites designated for tree preservation.
If your project involves demolitions, the local authority first has to approve the method you want to use if the building is 50 cubic meters or has glass and walls. Moreover, if the demolition will have an environmental impact, the authority will let you know if the site needs to undergo a complete Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
In rare cases, the Secretary of State may evaluate planning applications themselves rather than leave them to local authorities. This can happen if the government believes your project can compromise growth in specific sectors.
How to Get Planning Permission
Step 1 – Determine Whether You Need Planning Permission
If you think you don’t need planning permission, think again. The application process is necessary to prevent development in certain areas that are disruptive or inappropriate. So before starting the process, make sure you need permission. You can save yourself a lot of legwork this way.
Step 2 – Contact Your Local Authorities
Contact your local authorities to get an idea about the application process you should follow. You will increase your chances of approval since they can recommend changes that can improve your application.
Step 3 – Fill out The Application
After getting the necessary information from the local authorities and making recommended changes to your plans, fill out the application for planning permission. Most of these can be filled out and submitted online. Some of the information you have to provide, include the following:
- The location plan and the site plan
- Agriculture holdings certificate
- Ownership certificate
The application must be accompanied by a fee which will differ depending on the plan’s details. Once submitted and paid for, expect a receipt in your email.
Step 4 – Application Evaluation
The local planning authority evaluates all planning applications. They can approve or reject it based on the following factors:
- Government policy violations
- Loss of privacy
- Compromised highway safety
- Nature conservation
- Impact on listed buildings
- Noise
- The materials and the details that are mentioned in the plan
They may also speak to your neighbours before approving or rejecting your application. However, any objections they voice will only be considered if they align with the considerations mentioned above.
Step 5 – Wait for Their Decision
You can go ahead with the developments in your plan once planning permission is approved. If it is rejected, on the other hand, you can face legal charges if you go ahead with the plan anyway. You will also lose money since the enforcement notice will force you to undo all current work.
That can be a long and expensive process, and you will get nothing for your troubles. So make sure you get professional advice beforehand.
You can also appeal their decision with the Planning Inspectorate, i.e., if you are unhappy with the approach your local authority used to evaluate your application. If that doesn’t work, you can complain to the Local Ombudsman.
Please note that the Ombudsman doesn’t have the authority to rescind a grant. A solicitor will be able to guide you further.
Final Words
Planning permission is not free and can cost you more than the applicable charges if you don’t follow the correct application process or fail to provide all the required information. To find out more, check with your local planning authority.
They have official planning officers with years of experience interpreting and applying planning laws and policies. A consultation will give you a clear idea of where you stand and what you can do to increase your chances of getting approval.
3 Tips on How to Save Electricity
Irrespective of the weather outside, it seems like energy usage increases one way or another. From using heaters in winter to air conditioners in summer, there is no escaping this vicious cycle. At the same time, you notice your electricity bill progressively increasing and start looking for ways to cut down on your electricity.
So if you’re wondering about how to save electricity, here are some effective energy-saving tips that wouldn’t just help you cut down on your electricity bills but would also reduce your carbon footprint.
Maintain a Moderate Temperature
One of the biggest mistakes people make that leads to high electricity bills is failing to maintain the temperature inside their house. Whether you’re cooling the house on full power or blasting your heaters, an enormous amount of energy is consumed.
The math is simple: The higher you set your AC, the harder it will have to work to maintain the temperature. And the harder it works, the more energy will be consumed. Instead, aim to maintain a constant room temperature that is ideal and comfortable without being extreme. This will keep your house well-conditioned and prevent over usage of electricity.
Larger Loads of Dishes and Clothes at a Time
If you run your dishwasher 15 times a day, it will use 15 times the energy. The same goes for your laundry. While the use of these household types of equipment is almost inevitable, you can still control the frequency in order to reduce energy usage.
Instead of running your dishwasher every time you grab a snack, follow a schedule to wash your dishes. For instance, you can run the entire load of the day after dinner or first thing in the morning. This way, you’ll only be running it once a day and still getting the job done. Make sure to schedule according to your convenience to be able to follow it in the long run.
Add Rugs to Your Home
At first glance, you may fail to see the correlation between rugs and energy consumption. However, carpeted homes have better insulation, which means it would be harder for the heat to escape. As discussed earlier, blasting your heater leads to higher electricity.
Some good rugs throughout your house can reduce the need to increase the heater’s temperature. If you’re looking for some high-quality yet affordable rugs for your house, head over to The Rugs for a variety of options.
Remember, being mindful of your electricity usage isn’t just beneficial for you, but it is beneficial for the whole environment. You may feel that you can’t make a huge difference by reducing the temperature of your air conditioner, but you’d be mistaken; each small step counts. So follow these energy-saving tips to reduce your electricity bills and help the environment.
How to Install a Dishwasher
Depending on where you buy your dishwasher from, you may or may not have to pay an additional cost for the delivery and installation. While speciality outlets usually include the hookups for free, home improvement centres and online retailers generally charge a substantial fee to install the dishwasher.
Instead of spending the extra money, you can consider doing it on your own. Since it is a fairly easy job, you can easily learn how to install a dishwasher.
Things You’ll Need
Before you start working on the installation, it may be a smart choice to gather all the tools you may need in the process.
- Driver drill
- Screwdriver
- Drop sheet or cardboard
- Mounting hardware, as well as the inlet and outlet hoses that come with the dishwasher
- A mop in case there are any spills
Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have everything you may need, let’s start installing the dishwasher.
- Lay some drop sheets or cardboard around the area where you plan on placing the dishwasher. This will protect the floor during the installation process.
- Clean the floor where you are about to install the dishwasher.
- Unpack the new dishwasher and read the manual. Make sure to keep any specific instructions or tips in mind during the process.
- Before placing the dishwasher in its desired location, make sure to adjust the feet so it is levelled and sits in a stable way. You may have to adjust it again when it’s in place, but ensuring it is as close as possible would make it easier to adjust later on.
- A dishwasher requires 3 connections: a water supply, a drain line, and a power cord.
- If your dishwasher has a standard cord that can be plugged into a wall outlet, you just need to ensure that an outlet is near enough. However, in case it has a circuit cable that feeds directly into the wire connection box, you will need an electrician to assist you with the job. If you don’t have prior experience, it isn’t recommended to do it on your own.
- The water supply connection is rather easy to connect. All you need to do is to connect the water inlet valve of the dishwasher to one end of a steel supply tube. The other end has to be connected to a hot-ware supply pipe.
- Connecting the drain hose is a similar job. Make sure that you know the proper code of requirement in your area to learn how to properly drain the water.
- After all the connections are in place, push the dishwasher in place. You may have to readjust the feet at this point to make sure it is stable. Securely anchor the dishwasher in place once stable.
- Turn it on and give it a test run to ensure everything is working properly.
And that’s it; you’ve managed to install a dishwasher by yourself.
Top Tasks That Should Be In Your Seasonal Maintenance Checklist for a Comfortable Home
Seasonal house maintenance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A few simple tasks per season can make your home come to life in spring and hunker down in winter.
A Home Maintenance Checklist for the Seasons
Your family will be comfortable and safe, and your household will run like a well-oiled machine if you keep on top of these small but significant tasks year-round.
Spring Home Maintenance Tasks
- Check your roof for winter storm damages, such as missing tiles and holes.
- Check all exterior faucets and turn them on. Call a plumber or remove the air pocket yourself if no water comes out.
- Get your internal heating, and cooling system checked out and maintained.
- Take a look at your plumbing fixtures, especially the shutoff valve, to ensure they aren’t leaking.
- Check your fire extinguisher to ensure it is useable. Place it in an accessible spot so you can grab it immediately if there is a fire.
- Repair damaged driveways and walkways to prevent slipping accidents.
- Replace damaged extension cords to prevent electrical fires.
Summer Home Maintenance Tasks
- Clean and repair your deck. The snow and ice may have damaged it.
- Clean debris from all window wells.
- Wash and apply a sealant to wooden fences.
- Flush the water heater to clear it of sediment.
- Check and oil all garage doors, hinges, and openers.
- Check your dishwasher for leaks and have any repaired.
- Clean out the fan filter in your exhaust fan.
- Check the toilets and cabinets for leaks.
- Clear out the lint from all dryer vents and hoses to prevent blockage.
- Clean out your refrigerator and freezer coils and empty the drip trays.
Autumn Home Maintenance Tasks
- Seal all windows, doors, cracks, and other openings that can otherwise let cool air into your heated home. Replace the weather stripping if needed.
- Check the fireplace for hazards and damages. Clean out all the flues.
- Repair exterior siding.
- Replace worn-out and damaged windows with energy-efficient models.
- Check the roof for missing tiles, damages, and leaks.
- Dain and winterize all exterior plumbing and fixtures.
- Power wash your home’s exterior and siding.
- Clean out the gutters and downspouts.
- Fix major appliances before the holidays.
- Repair damaged driveways and walkways.
Winter Home Maintenance Tasks
- Check the basement for leaks when it thaws.
- Cover your air conditioning unit.
- Clean out the exhaust fan grill in your bathroom.
- If you have to travel during the holidays, run your faucets at a drip to prevent frozen pipes.
- Check the gutter, roofs, and downspouts after a snowstorm for damage.
- Clean out the drains in showers, tubs, and dishwashers.
- Check the water heater for pressure issues and leaks. A leak detector will ensure you don’t have to pay to reverse expensive flooding damage.
- Change the furnace filter to prevent a fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Use this seasonal house maintenance checklist to ensure your home remains functional and comfortable year-round. Consider hiring professionals for some of the tasks if you don’t have the time or resources to take care of them.
How to Unclog a Sink and Drain Yourself Using Household Items
Your kitchen and bathroom can become unusable if the sink is clogged. A plumber isn’t cheap. Use our guide and tips, and you won’t have to ask your neighbours how to unclog a sink.
How to Unclog a Sink in 3 Steps
Use these simple steps to unclog your sink:
Step 1 – Remove Standing Water
Bail out standing water in your sink before unclogging the drain. Use a cup or scoop to remove the water and dump it in a separate bucket.
Step 2 – Remove the Hardware
Remove the filters and stoppers from the drain once all the water is gone, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to do this correctly. Make sure the screws don’t fall down the drain. Keep a bucket underneath, just in case.
Step 3 – Remove the Clog
Wear rubber gloves before removing the material that is clogging the sink. Turn on the tap to flush out leftover bits and to test the flow.
Best Natural Remedies for a Clogged Sink
If you don’t want to get your hands dirty or the clog is too thick to remove by hand, make a drain cleaner using items in your home. Here are some simple recipes that won’t damage your pipes:
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Mix 1/3 cup of baking soda with the same amount of vinegar in a cup. Pour the fizzing liquid down the drain and don’t open the tap for about an hour. Then, flush with hot water. The fizzing should remove the grime and hair.
Baking Soda and Salt
Mix half a cup of soda and salt each in a cup and pour down the drain. Wait for 15 minutes before pouring boiling water into the drain. The chemical reaction is strong enough to remove most clogs.
Boiling Water
This remedy works well for some clogs, especially soap build-up. But boiling water is more efficient if there is no standing water in the sink. Just fill up a kettle, bring it to a boil and pour it into the drain in three stages. If that doesn’t work, you have a tough clog to deal with.
Wet/Dry Vacuum
This vacuum is ideal for sucking out wet obstructions in drains. Make a seal for the hose using a plastic bottle or plunger. Set the appliance to the highest setting, and it will do the rest. The powerful suction is usually sufficient enough to unclog sinks.
Be Careful!
Always wear protective gear, such as rubber gloves and goggles, before attempting any unclogging tips mentioned in this guide. Hot water and chemicals can splash onto you if you aren’t careful.
How to Repair Punch Holes in Hollow Doors in 3 Easy Steps
Hollow doors have their benefits, but they can get damaged easily. Anything from a kick to a toy can make a hole in it. The good news is that you don’t have to replace punch holes in your hollow core door when you can repair it. It’s a simple patch and paint job that will save considerable time, money, and resources.
How to Repair Punch Holes in Hollow Doors
Follow these steps to repair punch holes in your hollow door. If done right, you shouldn’t be able to see the damage:
Step 1 – Clean the Damaged Area
The holes will have splinters which you should remove before repairs. Remove them using a utility knife and cut away any damaged wood till you see a clean hole that is somewhat smooth around the edges. Rub these with gritty sandpaper to even out the surface.
Make sure you cut away from yourself to avoid injuries. You may need to make the hole larger before you start repairs since those are easier to fix than tinier ones. Otherwise, you may end up doing more harm than good.
Step 2 – Fill the Holes
Hollow doors aren’t 100% hollow. They have pockets. Fill up the pockets with holes until they are packed to the brim. You can use chopped-up wood as the filler and stuff it using skewers, ensuring the holes are covered. Use a hammer and dowel to pack the filler flush against the door, and when the glue dries, even it out using sandpaper.
Step 3 – Refinish the Whole Door
The door will not look the same after repairs, but you can make it look brand new with a fresh coat of paint and stain. So don’t just stain or paint the repaired areas.
You will need to remove the door from its hinges to do this. This includes the doorknobs and other hardware. Use painter’s tape to cordon off areas you don’t want to paint over. Choose a broad paintbrush or a foam paint roller to paint the door in long and even strokes. Once you have applied the first coat, allow it to dry for 24 hours.
Apply a second coat of paint or wood stain if needed. Each coat of paint will make the door darker and improve its overall look. Leave the door to dry for 24 hours before reinstalling the hardware. Remember that many stains and paints take several days to cure, so make sure the repaired door remains unblemished for at least a week.
4 Steps to Repair Laminate Flooring That Has Peaked
Laminate floors can take your home’s aesthetic appeal to the next level. But if they peak, they can leave the wrong impression and cause tripping accidents.
How to Repair Laminate Flooring That Peaks
If your laminate floors are peaking, the floorboards are pushing against one another along the seam creating a lump. This usually occurs when the boards don’t have enough room to expand and contract as the temperature fluctuates.
Use these steps to fix these peaking floorboards.
Step 1 – Find the Underlying Issue
Peaking happens when there is no gap between the walls and the floor, the gap is too small, and the mouldings are attached to the floor. To determine the issue, follow the peaking boards to the wall and look for a gap of 0.25 inches or more. Also, check for glue and nails that may have come out from the boards.
Step 2 – Fix the Moulding
Remove the nails or glue if the mouldings and floorboards are attached. If there is no expansion gap, make one by cutting a section between the walls and the floor using spacers. Replace the moulding to finish the job.
Step 4 – Fix the Peaked Boards
Once you have taken care of the underlying moulding issue, place a heavy item on the peaked boards for a few days or till they settle.
When You Should Call a Professional
Laminate flooring stands out because of the extra protective layer that prevents scratches and ensures it lasts for years. But that doesn’t mean it is immune to damage. You can fix some issues using our guide, but call professionals if:
- You are working in or have a house that has settled and has extremely uneven floors. An expert can tell you if fixing the flooring is a good idea or if you should replace it.
- A significant part of the flooring needs to be replaced or repaired, and you are dealing with tight spaces. An experienced professional knows how to overcome those challenges and restore the floor.
Preventing Damage
After repairs or after getting new laminate flooring, prevent damages by following these tips:
- Clean the floor regularly to prevent dirt and dust build-up that can cause scratches.
- Place adhesive pads underneath heavy furniture, so the legs don’t scratch the floor. Even tiny movements can cause damage.
- While vacuuming, use attachments that don’t have a brush at the end.
- Keep your pet’s claws trimmed, so they don’t scratch the floor.
- Place carpets and runners throughout the room.
Laminate flooring can increase your home’s value, provided it remains in pristine condition. Use our guide to ensure this.
How to Choose Solar Lights That Won’t Waste Your Money
If you’ve had burglaries in your area, ensuring your garden is well-lit all night long will ease your fears. Solar lights can light up your garden and other areas in your home without increasing your energy bill.
What Are Solar Lights for Gardens?
A solar light is a photovoltaic device that converts the sun’s light into electricity stored in a battery. The light’s photo sensor controls when they are on and off by sensing visible light. It lights up in the dark by completing the circuit between the light bulb and the battery. When it senses sunlight, it breaks that connection and starts storing.
What to Consider When Choosing Best Outdoor Solar Lights
Don’t grab the first one that catches your eye. Save time and money by considering these things when shopping for solar lights for your garden:
The Environment
The life expectancy of the light will depend on the exposure it gets. It may break down if exposed to the elements for too long. But this usually happens to low-quality lights. Splurge a bit on sound-quality solar lights designed to withstand rain, hail, snow, etc.
The Battery
Your solar lights should work throughout the night without getting dim. This is where the batteries come in. These turn electrical energy into chemical energy. Lead acid batteries, for example, work when lead reacts with sulphuric acid, and the nickel-cadmium battery works similarly. Each option has a different charge time, lifespan, and energy storage capacities.
Required Brightness
Brightness or lumens is a more helpful measurement when determining which solar lights are best for your needs. Depending on your needs, these may vary. For example, solar streetlights can start from 1100 lumens and go as high as 2400 lumens. However, a solar light with 50 and 70 lumens should be sufficient for a small garden.
Accessories and Features
You can get manual or automatic solar lights per your needs and budget. Some of these also change colour and intensity.
Solar lights are a great way to reduce your environmental impact and energy bill simultaneously. It can also increase your security after dark. Use the tips mentioned in this guide to make an informed decision.
Paint a Plain Door in 10 Easy Steps for a Quick Refresh
A fresh coat of paint can make old and worn doors look brand new. But a botched paint job can have the opposite effect, even if you are working on a plain door. Follow these simple tips to ensure your door colours aren’t wasted when painting a door.
Prep Your Door
Before painting a door, prep it by following these steps:
Step 1
Remove the lock, plates, and knob and place all of them in marked bags. Use painter’s tape to mark off each piece of hardware if you don’t want to take them off.
Step 2
Use trisodium phosphate to scrub the door clean. The substance will dissolve grease and dirt, and a rough sponge can ‘sand’ the surface allowing the paint to adhere to the wood. Clean with mild soap and water if the door is not as dirty.
Step 3
Fill holes with putty and sand and clean them. Cover up the fixed areas with primer. Otherwise, the paint will rub off easily when it dries.
How to Paint a Door
Once your door is primed, follow these steps to paint it:
Step 1
Use a paintbrush to spread a thin coat of water-based primer.
Step 2
Once it dries, spread the first coat of paint on the door using long and even strikes. Paint from the top down. Don’t forget to paint the sides and edges.
Step 3
Allow the coat of paint to dry, then sand it with gritty sandpaper.
Step 4
Apply the second coat of paint and sand it with the same sandpaper.
Step 5
Apply the third coat of paint and allow it to dry for 48 hours.
Step 6
You aren’t done yet. Once the paint dries completely, apply a urethane finish to seal the paint. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Each brand has its own finishes and application procedure.
Step 7
Allow the finish to dry completely before re-attaching the hardware you set aside. Do not close the door till everything is done! It may stick otherwise.
Painting a plain wooden door is not as tricky as a custom-made one with several dips and ridges. Consider hiring a professional to paint those, specifically those with years of experience painting custom furniture. Use the steps in this guide to paint plain wooden doors as practice if you want to tackle complex doors net.
How to Unclog a Toilet in 2 Easy Steps Using a Plunger
A blocked toilet can bring your household to a complete standstill. If you delay, your home can fill up with sewage water. Prevent that from happening by using a plunger as soon as you believe there is a clog, particularly one with a flange and a bell-shaped rubber end. These are designed to fit toilets easily and create a vacuum that can exert sufficient pressure.
How to Unclog a Toilet Fast Using a Plunger
You will be surprised how many people don’t know how to use this simple tool effectively. Here is a simple step-by-step guide you can use to unclog your toilet fast:
Step 1 – Position the Plunger in the Toilet
Wear rubber gloves and grab the plunger. Place it with the bell-shaped cover covering the hole and press down. The pressure will force air out of the plunger without spraying water everywhere.
Step 2 – Exert Force
Once all of the air is out, creating a vacuum in the bell-shaped plunger, pump it in and out. The motion will force water backward and forwards, which should dislodge the clog.
Tips for Efficient Plunging
- Be gentle on the first plunge since the bell will be full of air. A forceful plunge may splash sewage water in your face and over your clean bathroom floor.
- Continue with a regular pumping motion when the air is out.
- Make sure there is enough water in the bowl to cover the plunger, or you won’t be able to generate enough pressure.
How to Unclog a Toilet Fast When the Plunger Doesn’t Work
If the clog is still there after several rounds of plunging, use a toilet auger to clear it. This type of drain snake is explicitly designed to loosen stubborn toilet clogs. It comprises a crank handle, a telescoping metal tube, and a cable running inside.
Insert the tip of the toilet auger into the toilet and turn the handle while pushing down. It should clear the clog; if it cannot, call a plumber as soon as possible. You may have a bigger problem on your hands.
A clogged toilet can make life a living hell if it isn’t unclogged. Use the steps in this guide to unclog it quickly and save money that would otherwise go to a plumber who will do the same thing.
How to Install A Ring Doorbell
The ring doorbell is one item you rarely pay attention to when considering your house maintenance. Nevertheless, it helps inform you when a guest has arrived at your door. Therefore, having a working doorbell is of paramount importance.
If your ring doorbell needs repair or replacement, changing or installing a new one is not a difficult task. You can take a professional electrician’s help but it will cost you some money. However, if you want to save cash, these seven simple steps can help you to understand how to install a ring doorbell.
Step 1
The first step to installing a ring doorbell is to check all the components in the ring doorbell kit. It primarily contains a ring doorbell, its instruction manual, screws, battery, charger, wires, and screwdriver to install the ring doorbell. It would help if you had a drill for drilling places for the screw.
Step2
The second step is to charge the battery of your doorbell using the charger present in your kit and activating your ring doorbell. If a Wi-Fi connection is required to activate the ring doorbell software, connect it with your Wi-Fi.
Step 3
Now remove your old ring doorbell with the help of a screwdriver. As a precaution, switch off your house power to change the old ring doorbell with a new one. Carefully remove the old ring doorbell without breaking or damaging its wire.
Step4
Once the old ring doorbell is removed, you can mark the screw position to the previous screw location and attach your ring doorbell mounting rack. If you are installing it for the first time, use adrill machine to attach the ring doorbell mounting rack.
Step 5
In this step, attach the ring doorbell chime wires to the screws of the ring doorbell and carefully wrap the wires around the screw to complete the circuit. Those installing the doorbell for the first time must also purchase a doorbell chime.
Step 6
Now it is time to place the ring doorbell over the mounting rack. In this step, you will place the ring doorbell above its bracket and push it gently to place it there.
Step 7
The last step is to switch on the power circuit so the ring doorbell can be activated and become functional. Complete its final configuration settings with the help of its digital panel and secure the ring doorbell by tightening its security screws to fix the bottom of its faceplate.
Final Word
Installing a ring doorbell is a pretty easy process if you carefully follow the ring doorbell instruction manual. We have simplified it further by describing how to install a ring doorbell in seven simple steps.
We hope these seven steps of installing a ring doorbell have simplified the process for you; otherwise, you can hire a professional installer or electrician for help.
What is Maximalism?
It feels like you get to hear of a new aesthetic in home décor every month. Till recently, minimalism was all the rage. A few Netflix documentaries about getting rid of material possessions and videos of the pristine white walls of Kanye West’s house had everyone on the minimalism hype.
Minimalism, as its name suggests, states less is more. Bare walls, sprinkled furniture, and a lack of colour are the main features of minimalist home décor. Minimalism had a good run, but it has also come to pass, like all trends. Surprisingly enough, the pendulum has swung in the opposite direction, and minimalism has been replaced by its polar opposite, maximalism.
Though Maximalism’s name is enough to give you a vague idea of what the aesthetic entails, it is a design choice for the bold, increasing in popularity these days. Read on to find out all about maximalism, and whether you should adopt the aesthetic for your homeit.
What is Maximalism?
Maximalism is a design aesthetic that believes in more is more. In terms of house décor, maximalism can be described as overstuffed and incorporating multiple colours, designs, ideas, and things in one space.
The appeal of maximalism lies in showing off all your things and the attached sentimental value to those things that stops you from throwing them away. Imagine your grandmother’s house; the bold patterns of the sofa, the little trinkets, the abundance of vases, and the picture frames littered everywhere. Our grandmothers have adopted maximalism, and now the aesthetic is having its moment in the limelight.
The History of Maximalism
Maximalism has been around since the built environment has existed and the aesthetic is intrinsically linked to the human desire to show off material wealth. Historically, people in power have all opted for maximalist approaches to their gargantuan living spaces. Think massive chandeliers, jewels and other riches on display. This penchant for display is still reflected in modern homes. Some cabinets are reserved for showcasing either awards or even fancy cutlery, showing that maximalism has always been an inherent part of home décor.
The Revival of Maximalism And Its Reasons
Maximalism is now the current interest in home décor, and there are many reasons for the aesthetic’s triumphant return. One reason is perhaps upward economic mobility that led people to buy possessions and experiment with house décor.
However, the biggest reason is that maximalism appeals to people because it helps them reflect their personality onto their living space. Maximalism reflects the deeply personalised chaos of people’s lives, and homeowners can curate their lives through it, which appeals to them deeply. It is also comforting because, as an aesthetic, maximalism is loud, garish, and an entire sensory experience which is a far cry from the sparseness of minimalism.
How To Incorporate Maximalism into Your Home Décor
The beauty of maximalism is that there really are no rules. You can go all out and experiment with pretty much anything. Popular maximalist house décor involves lots of bold patterns, bright colours, and a display of some kind. The things you want to display depend on you. If you want to dedicate a wall to your collection of football kits, feel free to do so. Anything is fair game in maximalist design.
Final Thoughts
Maximalism is seeing its moment in the spotlight, but the aesthetic never really left in many ways. It is excellent for self-expression and provides that intangible feeling of a home to a space. Many people say possessions make you feel empty, but a room filled to the brim with things with sentimental value can make you feel pretty good.