I love to give practical gifts. Don’t get me wrong, it’s fun to give people luxury items and fun gifts they would never buy themselves. But there’s something purposeful about a gift you know the recipient will use over and over again. 

Believe it or not, giving useful, fun-to-receive presents doesn’t need to cost a lot of money. In fact, you can find all kinds of practical, fantastic dollar store Christmas gift ideas that don’t feel like cheap gifts. They are all items that anyone would be more than happy to receive.

So how do you find a dollar store Christmas gift idea that feels special? It’s easier than you think! There are plenty of DIY dollar store gift ideas that take just a little effort. Add a personalized touch or combine a few items to create a nice package. There are even some Dollar Tree Christmas gifts that are perfectly thoughtful all on their own. Here are 21 ideas to fulfill everyone’s Christmas wish list at the dollar store!

DIY Dollar Store Gift Ideas

The first set of dollar store gift ideas are DIY ideas, but they don’t require a lot of skill or supplies (although if you have a Cricut or other cutting machine, you can personalize almost anything). If you have some time and creativity, you can make really wonderful gifts from items that won’t cost you a lot. Homemade gifts also have a personal touch that you can’t beat. Everyone loves a gift knowing someone took time to create it just for them. 

1. Homemade Mint Sugar Scrub (from Practically Functional)

Homemade Mint Sugar Scrub

Whip up a batch of this homemade mint sugar scrub in 10 minutes or less—this recipe makes great holiday gifts, or pamper yourself with this delicious DIY sugar scrub!

See the full project

Almost every dollar store sells baking ingredients—salt, baking soda, and sugar. Stock up on bags of the sweet stuff to make jars of minty sugar scrub. This scrub is luxurious, it smells great, and it really works for smoothing rough skin on heels and elbows. 

While you’re picking up sugar, don’t forget to pick up some jars or small containers for the scrub. Most dollar stores carry all sorts of simple glass vases, mason-type jars, and other vessels for your gift.

2. Dollar Store Christmas Tree Candles (from Redhead Can Decorate)

Dollar Store Christmas Tree Candles

Get everything you need for these festive candles from the dollar store!

See the full project

Another great find at the dollar store is candles. Look for the plain “prayer-type” candles and small votives, jar candles, and more. You can make all sorts of wonderful candle gifts from these tall blank candles, which often come in white.

If you prefer not to paint or draw on the candles, you could also decoupage them using tissue paper (also found at the dollar store) and Mod Podge. Photos also work well—print black and white images on regular paper and use the decoupage medium to affix them to the glass surrounding the candle. 

3. Personalized Mugs (from Practically Functional)

How To Paint A Mug With Painters Opaque Paint Markers

Make a cute DIY painted mug for the holidays—all you need are paint markers and adhesive stencils. They're easy to make and they make great holiday gifts!

See the full project

Savvy dollar store shoppers know that mugs and cups are some of the best items to pick up when you’re at the dollar store! There are so many ways you can personalize a simple, plain mug, cup, or jar. The possibilities are nearly endless, whether you use Sharpies, paint, or something else.

If you’re a Cricut crafter, you can take your DIY dollar store Christmas gift ideas to the next level with vinyl lettering to create super personalized, beautiful cups and mugs. These are excellent beginner Cricut projects for almost any level. They look so awesome, and they make lovely presents. 

4. Tea Tree (from Thirsty for Tea)

Christmas Tea Trees

Such a cute way to dress up bags of tea for the holidays—use these Christmas tea trees as holiday decor or give them as a gift.

See the full project

Something as simple as a box of tea can become a great dollar store Christmas gift with a little DIY magic. These Christmas tea trees are cute and creative—perfect for any tea lover (with or without a DIY mug to pair with).

You can also package hot cocoa mix tied with ribbon, or look for small packages of flavored coffees to include with your gift. With attention to presentation, an everyday item becomes a thoughtful and appreciated present for anyone on your Christmas list.

5. Etched Glass Tile Coasters (from Practically Functional)

How To Etch Glass Tiles To Make Coasters

Glass tile etching is easier than you'd think! With a glass tile, etching cream, a paintbrush, and a stencil, you can make your own customized etched glass tile coasters!

See the full project

While you’re thinking of beverages (like tea and coffee mugs), don’t forget coasters! Coasters make great gifts and can be personalized really easily. These etched glass tile coasters aren’t tricky to make, but they look very elegant and could be adjusted to match any style or décor. 

You can customize almost any coasters. These DIY homemade polaroid coasters would work on tile coasters, even if they’re not plain (give them a coat of white paint to turn them into blanks). Wooden coasters can be engraved or painted as well. So if you see coasters while you’re shopping at the Dollar Tree for Christmas gifts, pick them up!

6. DIY Snow Globe In A Mason Jar (from Practically Functional)

How To Make A Snow Globe In A Mason Jar

Learn how to make a snow globe in a mason jar with just water, glycerine, and glitter! It takes less than five minutes and is a great kids activity for the holidays.

See the full project

I adore snow globes. They’re so pretty and magical. Of course, a beautiful snow globe can also be quite expensive. For a sweet, thoughtful, personalized holiday gift, try these DIY snow globes in a mason jar. 

Once again, jars are in play for this DIY holiday craft. The dollar store often sells mason-type jars and containers, making them an excellent resource for snow globe supplies. You may also find other supplies for this craft, including glitter and miniature figurines. 

7. Dino Phone Tripod (from Eat Sleep Make)

Dino iPhone Tripod

Make a fun iPhone tripod using a plastic dinosaur and a suction cup! Works great for tablets too!

See the full project

How amazing are these dinosaur phone tripods?! These tripods are a bit more involved than some of the other DIY dollar store Christmas gifts, BUT the payoff is well worth the effort. With a little bit of work, you can create a cool gift that any teen or tween will love. 

Don’t limit yourself to just dinosaurs, either. Most dollar stores have a selection of plastic action figures and other animals that you could turn into phone tripods. Look for the suction cups at the dollar store as well. Many times, they will have them in the craft section. 

8. Burlap Monogram Sign (from Practically Functional)

Simple DIY Burlap Monogram Sign

Looking for an easy wedding gift idea? This DIY burlap monogram sign makes a beautiful custom gift plus it is super easy to make!

See the full project

Wall art always makes a wonderful personal gift. These monogrammed burlap signs can be framed in dollar store document frames. Occasionally dollar stores will also carry framed art or mirrors, which you can purchase and re-use for the frame.

The rest of the sign is made using inexpensive burlap and a Sharpie. I always like to check the towel and tablecloth sections at the dollar store. Sometimes you can find very affordable placemats and linens to reinvent into great DIY dollar store Christmas gifts. 

9. Tis the Season Shadowbox (from Practically Functional)

DIY ’Tis The Season Shadowbox

Learn how to put vinyl on a shadowbox so you can customize it however you'd like! Make gorgeous holiday decor for your home with this simple shadow box that takes less than 15 minutes to make.

See the full project

On a rare occasion, you may find shadowboxes at the dollar store. If you happen to find one, purchase it right away! Otherwise, you can also create a DIY shadow box out of a wooden box or deep frame. As you shop for Christmas gifts at the dollar store, don’t forget to look for small ornaments and little items that could fit inside the shadowbox.

I’ve found that you can find paint and other craft supplies at dollar stores. These aren’t always the highest quality, but they work well for wall art and items that don’t get handled often. For something like a shadow box wall hanging, you don’t need to have top-of-the-line craft supplies. It will turn out beautifully with inexpensive dollar store supplies.

10. Wipe off Weekly Menu Board (from Make and Takes)

Easy Wipe Off Weekly Menu Board

Keep all your dinner meal ideas in one place with this super easy DIY wipe-off weekly menu board to keep track of what’s for dinner each night!

See the full project

We all have a busy friend on our list who loves to budget and meal plan. This wipe-off weekly menu board can be a great gift that everyone will adore. This is very simple to make using dollar store craft supplies. Try to match the board to the recipient’s kitchen and taste.

As you’re shopping, don’t forget to look for dry erase markers and erasers. These are often with the school supplies, and they can make great dollar store purchases. You can use them for this project or other “whiteboard” projects. Kids love them too—laminated workbooks last and last. 

11. River Rock Trivet (from Practically Functional)

DIY River Rock Trivet

Make an elegant river rock trivet with river rocks, felt, and hot glue—a fun and practical river rock craft to bring a little nature indoors!

See the full project

Check the floral supplies for river rocks and stones. You can use them to make this cute river rock trivet that’s perfect for absolutely any kitchen. Small trivets also make lovely coasters to slip under houseplants and protect furniture during watering. I love the natural look.

Stones, shells, and rocks are great items to pick up while you are dollar store shopping. Also, watch for the small “mermaid tears” or marbles—you can make them into fridge magnets, decorate your potted plants, or add them to home décor for a sparkly touch. 

12. DIY Roll-Up Toiletry Bag (from Practically Functional)

DIY Roll-Up Toiletry Bag Made From A Washcloth!

Transform a regular washcloth into a super functional DIY roll-up toiletry bag—it keeps your toiletries organized without taking up a ton of space, plus it's so easy to make!

See the full project

Help the frequent traveler on your gift list stay organized with this cute DIY roll-up toiletry bag made from a washcloth. Look for a washcloth (or small kitchen towel) at the dollar store. Then shop the toiletries section for useful travel-sized items. 

You can fill the toiletry bag with toothpaste, a travel toothbrush, small shampoo, little soaps, and other TSA-friendly supplies. When your gift receiver hits the road, they’ll think of you every time they unroll this adorable, easy-to-make organizer. 

13. Dollar Store Gift Basket (from Savvy Honey)

3 DIY Spa Day At Home Gift Ideas (Under $10 From the Dollar Store)

These DIY Spa Day At Home Gift Ideas are so CHEAP! Anyone who wants an at home spa day will love this homemade DIY Dollar Store spa gift basket!

See the full project

Let’s talk about gift baskets. With even $10, you can pull together a beautiful gift basket from the dollar store that will delight any recipient. I used this spa gift basket as an example, but you can tailor your gift to any taste, age, or style. 

Consider a car-care basket for dad or a cookie-making basket for a neighbor. Teachers might love a basket of classroom supplies and goodies, and kids would love a basket full of coloring books, crayons, small toys, games, or books. Look around the dollar store and get creative to make easy, inspired gift baskets for the whole family. When you package the items with a “theme,” the possibilities are endless. 

Dollar Store Christmas Gift Ideas (No DIY Required)!

Sometimes you need a gift quickly. The dollar store has plenty of options that you can give as gifts without the DIY. If you’re looking for dollar store Christmas gift ideas, here are the easiest presents and stocking stuffers for anyone on the nice list. These also make excellent dollar store gifts for secret Santa, gift exchanges, and 12 days of Christmas presents. 

14. Office Supplies

The dollar store has a huge section of office supplies, school supplies, and art items. You can pull together the perfect gift for a boss, coworker, student, or friend for just a few dollars. Tie cute pens or pencils together with a ribbon for a perfect package. 

Notebooks make great gifts, and the dollar store often has art paper, brushes, and even paint. Stickers abound, and folders, scissors, glue, and other supplies are easy to find. Any of these make excellent dollar store Christmas gift ideas or excellent stocking stuffers. 

15. Crayons & Paper

Kids love to color! If you’re looking for a nice gift that will keep kids entertained, the dollar store has you covered. Crayons and even coloring books are easy to find at the dollar store.

Keep an eye out for other coloring items like markers, dry erase pens, and chalk as well. Posterboard, rolls of wrapping paper, and drawing pads can be great, inexpensive Christmas gifts for little artists.

16. Lotion or Soap

There are always a few neighbors or friends that are a challenge to buy for. You want to give them a little something, but all those people on your list can add up fast. Everyone appreciates a pretty bottle of hand soap, a nice bar, or some lotion.

The great thing about beauty gifts is that they’re perfectly appropriate on their own. You can stock up on several of them in case you need a quick item to give to a teacher, a delivery person, or the neighbor who surprises you. These also make great housewarming presents and hostess gifts from the dollar store. 

17. Towels, Utensils, and Cake Mix

Pull together a gift for your favorite baker (or treat lover) with a kitchen towel, wooden spoon, and a package of cake mix. Tied with a ribbon, you’ll have a lovely gift for $3!

Kitchen items are bright and cheerful. Almost everyone appreciates them because they’re useful and practical. These also make great dollar store party favor ideas or white elephant gifts. If you’re looking for an inexpensive secret Santa gift, this is a good one. 

18. Candy or Christmas Treats

Everyone appreciates candy! The dollar store often has some nicer boxes of sweets, chocolates, and cookies during the holiday season. You may even find them in a pretty tin or a lovely gift box. These items make perfect Christmas gifts on their own. 

I like to buy stocking stuffer treats at the dollar store. The selection is often unique and fun. Sometimes they have retro candy that you can’t find anywhere else too! Tuck them in a pretty package (like these pillow boxes I made using Cricut) and tie them with a ribbon for festive party favors.

19. Framed Photos

If you’re looking for a great dollar store gift for a loved one, why not give them a nice, framed photo? Frame a favorite memory of the two of you or frame school photos for Grandma and Auntie. The dollar store is one of the best places to get inexpensive frames.

Everyone loves photo gifts, especially because actual photos are a rarity these days. Embellish the frame, or put together a group of pictures for a nice presentation. Don’t miss the photo books, either. Many dollar stores have small booklets that hold 10-20 photos—a perfect gift for someone who lives far away. 

20. Candles

Another terrific dollar store gift idea is candles and candle holders. Dollar stores often carry a wide selection of scented candles, plain tapers, and even glass jarred “prayer-type” candles. All of these can make lovely gifts on their own or fancied up for a DIY holiday present.

The dollar store also has scented items like potpourri and air fresheners. If you have a scent-lover on your Christmas list, the dollar store will have you covered. 

21. Gloves and Scarves

You can often find gloves, scarves, and other winter wear at the dollar store in the winter months. Every kid loves a pair of “magic mini gloves,” and a scarf or winter headband makes a nice gift for people who spend time outdoors. 

Check for winter hats, bags, hand warmers, and even socks and slippers. Any of these can be excellent gifts for folks on your holiday list.

If you need to come up with some great Christmas ideas for less, don’t dismiss the dollar store! There are plenty of fantastic Christmas gift ideas that won’t cost you a lot of money. You can feel great knowing you gave a Christmas gift that the receiver loved and will use. It’s not about how much you spend, but about the thought and the sentiment behind the gift. Happy giving this holiday season!

Want to share these ideas with your friends? Share to Facebook, Pinterest, or send the article by email—just click on any of the share buttons floating on the left, or find them at the top and bottom of this post.

The post 21 Awesome Dollar Store Christmas Gift Ideas was written by Jessi Wohlwend and appeared first on Practically Functional.

Cutting machines like a Cricut Maker or Silhouette Cameo help you make the cutest gifts for almost no money at all. Dollar store Cricut projects are the best way to spruce up a unique, personalized present for only a few bucks. 

If you’ve never shopped at the Dollar Tree, Dollar General, or another discount store for Cricut supplies, you are in for a treat! You can find so many Cricut-friendly items at the dollar store. They have tons of “blanks” (meaning items that are blank for personalization) as well as items that you can paint or adjust to create a canvas for your Cricut designs. The number of easy dollar store Cricut projects will amaze you!

If you’re looking for Christmas gifts under $5 or a great birthday present for cheap, a dollar store and your Cricut is all you need. The possibilities will blow you away! Today I’ve rounded up 12 of my favorite dollar store Cricut projects to inspire your crafting.

New to the Cricut? Wondering if it’s right for you? Check out my getting started with a Cricut tutorial first. 

How to Find Great Items at the Dollar Store for Your Cricut Projects

Like shopping at a thrift store for Cricut project supplies, you have two options for shopping at the dollar store. The first option is to go in with a project loosely in mind and look for supplies that fit your specific project. The other option is to wander the aisles and wait for inspiration to hit. Unlike thrift stores, the inventory at dollar stores is consistent. Because there are certain items you will almost always find on hand at the dollar store (like picture frames and votive holders), having a loose idea of your project is often a good plan.

Here are some go-to dollar store Cricut supplies to pick up:

(Did you know you can shop at Dollar Tree online?! Same prices and you don’t even have to leave the house!)

Dollar store Cricut project supplies are often “off-brand” or lower quality than craft store supplies, but most will do in a pinch. It’s also important to consider what you plan to do with the supply. For example, you won’t handle framed artwork nearly as much as a tee shirt. A decorative plate may only go on display during the holidays, whereas a coffee mug may get daily use (making it worth the splurge on good quality heat-transfer vinyl to fancy-up that dollar store mug). 

Put on your creative thinking cap before you go to the dollar store. You’ll be surprised at what you can find to alter with spray paint, glue, or a little DIY effort. Cutting machines like a Cricut or Silhouette Cameo spruce up everyday items and turn them into amazing gifts and personalized mementos. You can upload your own designs to make something truly special. 

As you consider WHAT to make, look through these dollar store Cricut projects to help you find a fantastic and surprisingly affordable gift from supplies at the dollar store!

1. Personalized Mugs (from Practically Functional) 

How To Use Heat Transfer Vinyl On Mugs

Did you know you can use heat transfer vinyl on mugs?! Learn how to apply HTV to a ceramic mug so you can personalize and customize it however you'd like!

See the full project

Mugs make fantastic personalized gifts! They’re super simple and an excellent Cricut beginner project for those newer to cutting machines. For mugs, I recommend using durable, quality heat transfer vinyl. The cups shouldn’t go in the dishwasher, but they can certainly hold up to regular handwashing. I’ve used heat transfer vinyl on my onesies and Etsy store projects for a long time, but I fell in love after trying it on ceramic mugs. 

As for the mugs themselves, go for inexpensive blanks at the dollar store! You can often find big cappuccino mugs, classic white mugs, or delicate teacups. Look over each ceramic piece for chips or flaws, and wrap them carefully before putting them in your bag. Even at a buck apiece, you still want to get home with your mugs intact!

Don’t miss out on my other Cricut mug ideas:

• Cold Outside Mug with Outdoor Vinyl
• DIY Mini Mouse Mug

2. School Supply Organizer (from Practically Functional)

DIY Washi Tape Labels To Organize School Supplies

Learn how to make washi tape labels to organize just about anything! Put the labels on mason jars and use them to organize kids school supplies, artwork supplies, and homework supplies.

See the full project

Mason jars are another dollar store staple. You can often find cute glass jars and containers in the kitchen section, the craft section, and among the home goods. Look for vases, pots, cups, and other containers that could work for personalization.

I used simple mason jars and washi tape to personalize and pretty up some standard canning jars to organize pens, pencils, and school supplies. School supply organizers are a great dollar store Cricut project that looks terrific on a desk. These also make great gifts for teachers, coworkers, and bosses!

3. Holiday Ornaments (from By-Pink)

My First Christmas Ornament Cricut Project

Learn how to make a simple Christmas ornament for a baby’s first Christmas—this Christmas ornament would make an awesome Christmas gift and keepsake.

See the full project

Around the holidays, you can find great blanks at the dollar store! Look for classic Christmas balls as well as flat ceramic pieces that you could use for ornaments. You may also find unpainted wooden or cardboard ornaments for your projects.

When it comes to making holiday ornaments, the sky is the limit. You can decorate jingle bells, balls, or any shape you can find. I love these baby’s first Christmas ornaments from By-Pink. She used Cricut basswood, but you could easily use wooden blanks from the dollar store. From there, it’s all about the lettering, ribbon, and resin finish that you select to make it really special. Or you can make a baby’s first Christmas ornament by filling an empty ball ornament with their hospital bracelet and first little hat.

4. Organizers (from Practically Functional)

Make Personalized Storage Bins With A Cricut Joy

Make these cute personalized storage bins with a Cricut Joy and Smart Holographic Vinyl; they're perfect for organizing your mudroom or entryway, or organizing kids toys! (The screenshots in these instructions were made using the Cricut Design Space app on an iPhone.)

See the full project

Organizing containers abound at the dollar store. You’ll find bins, baskets, and buckets that you can customize with your Cricut to make them personal and even more functional. Label bins for your pantry, your car, your kids’ toys, and more.

Organizing bins and containers from the dollar store make great reusable gift containers too. If you’re going to give someone a basket of treats for their birthday or kitchen shower, why not make the container part of the present? Use die-cut lettering and images to make the container as special as the gift.

5. Disney Countdown Clock (from Practically Functional)

DIY Disney Countdown Blocks (Plus Cut File)

Are you planning a Disney trip? Count down the days to the magical adventure with this DIY Disney countdown clock—grab the SVG file in this tutorial and make your own countdown clock with your Cricut or Silhouette!

See the full project

Are you or someone you love looking forward to a Disney trip in the near future? Don’t miss this cute Disney countdown clock (the cut file is in the post). Make this cute block day counter with simple wooden blocks you find at the dollar store.

Look for plain wooden cubes, dice, or decorative wood pieces. Paint them solid white and then use them as the base for your countdown clock. This makes an adorable present for kids looking forward to the day when their Disney dreams come true.

5. Fabulous Watering Can (from Practically Functional)

Decorate A Watering Can With Adhesive Vinyl

Use adhesive vinyl to personalize and decorate a watering can—this simple project will add color to any boring watering can, and it only takes a few minutes!

See the full project

Call me “extra,” but I love the way simple vinyl designs can really jazz up everyday items. I took this watering can and added some happy flower designs of cute dahlias. It elevates a ho-hum item to something unique and gift-worthy!

Watch for watering cans, flower pots, and other containers at the dollar store. You can makeover practical housekeeping tools into gorgeous gifts that will make any recipient smile. If there’s someone on your list who’s tough to buy for (or who only likes sensible presents), this is an excellent Cricut dollar store project for their next birthday.

6. Jar Candles (from Practically Functional)

How To Make Silhouette Candle Jars

Make your own silhouette jars with mason jars, vinyl, and some spray paint! Add a candle to make a gorgeous flickering mason jar silhouette luminaries for any occasion!

See the full project

Another great way to elevate common mason jars, vases, and glass containers are to turn them into candle holders! I’ve made several candle projects, and they turn out great every time! I adore the way the candles cast shapes on the wall when lit—it’s so magical!

You can create jar candles for any season or occasion. I’ve made fall-themed candle holders with leaves, as well as snowy Christmas village jars, glittery valentine jars, and shamrock candle holders for St. Patrick’s day (made from upcycled beer bottles)! Watch for any glass containers and blanks at the dollar store and snatch them up! They make perfect dollar store Cricut projects. 

8. Door Hanger (from Daily DIY Life)

Dollar Tree Pizza Pan Fall Welcome Sign

This super fun buffalo check Dollar Tree Pizza Pan Fall Welcome Sign is the perfect quick craft for a chilly fall day.

See the full project

How about a change of pace from the typical wreath? These darling door hangers are made from dollar store pizza pans! I love this example of taking something mundane and turning it into something totally unexpected.

Pizza pans make the perfect base for a door hanger. With some vinyl letters, ribbon, and creative vision, you can create an exceptional wall hanging. Make one for any season, holiday, or just for fun. These would also make pretty gifts for Mother’s Day, Christmas, or a birthday. 

9. Custom Charger Plates (from Fields of Heather)

Painting & Decorating Dollar Tree Chargers

Chargers from the dollar store make great personalized decor—make one for each holiday and switch them out seasonally.

See the full project

Chargers are another excellent dollar store blank you can pick up. These are basically a fancy plate you tuck under your dinner plate for a pop of color. Chargers also make a great base for a cookie plate, a decorative wall hanging, or a dining room centerpiece. 

Look for chargers with a less-shiny finish for the best results, especially if you plan to paint the charger before adding lettering. Light colors with dark lettering or dark colors with light, bright lettering will look the best. I like all the different examples of dollar store Cricut projects in this charger tutorial. 

10. Mini Signs (from Burton Avenue)

Easy Mini Christmas Signs

I found the original mini signs at the dollar store and knew they just needed a little make-over to turn them into something cute for Christmas!

See the full project

How cute are these Christmas mini signs? This is a fantastic example of taking a decorative item from the dollar store and reinventing it for a great DIY Cricut project. You could make all sorts of mini signs for any occasion. 

These wooden blocks were initially little floral signs. Once the crafter removed the original design and covered the blocks in cute fabric, they became festive and fun. I love how even budget-friendly Cricut projects always look so polished and professional. You’d easily pay $15-20 for these at Target or Home Goods.

11. Makeup Brush Holder (from Ever Elegant Designz)

DIY Makeup Brush Holder

Create these gorgeous makeup brush holders! Easy and inexpensive to make—perfect gift idea.

See the full project

You might know a tween or preteen girl who is OBSESSED with all things unicorn. How cute are these DIY makeup brush holders? I think these would make a terrific gift. The designs are fun and fanciful, using glitter and vinyl for this DIY dollar store Cricut project. 

I recommend picking up some cute pens or fun makeup brushes to go along with these little holders. You could easily bundle it together for a cute gift for under $5. If you’re looking for an inexpensive gift for tween girls, the dollar store and Cricut have you covered. 

12. Coupon Organizer (from Practically Functional)

DIY Coupon Organizer With Dollar Store Supplies

Turn a small expandable file from the dollar store into a DIY coupon organizer in just a few minutes—great for organizing coupons, and small enough to take with you to the store!

See the full project

The dollar store often has office supplies. If you happen to see an expandable envelope or file organizer, definitely pick it up! You can use lettering from your Cricut to turn those expandable envelopes into a sweet coupon organizer. 

These organizers are so helpful when you’re rifling through your coupons at the store. I use these for storing receipts and important papers. If you need a gift for a friend, these are a super fit—especially if your friend is budget conscious and practical. I love presents that are usable in everyday life. 

I hope that you give some of these dollar store Cricut projects a shot. It’s amazing how some simple lettering and decoration can make inexpensive items special. Gifts from the dollar store can still be meaningful, useful, and personal. All it takes is a cutting machine and some creativity! 

Want to share these ideas with your friends? Share to Facebook, Pinterest, or send the article by email—just click on any of the share buttons floating on the left, or find them at the top and bottom of this post.

The post 12 Dollar Store Cricut Projects You Can Do Today was written by Jessi Wohlwend and appeared first on Practically Functional.

Learn how to make a DIY bench cushion to fit any bench, window seat, or outdoor bench without any sewing—all you need is a staple gun!

We have been using an IKEA Kallax cubby storage unit turned on its side as a window seat and reading bench in the kids’ room, and it works great! But even with a bunch of pillows and blankets, it’s not super comfortable to sit for long periods of time. So I made a simple DIY bench cushion to add to the top of the window seat, and I did it all without any sewing. You just need a piece of wood, bench foam, batting, fabric, and a staple gun, and it will come together in just over an hour!

We actually have another Kallax unit in the kids’ room that we use for toy storage. That one has fabric bins in it rather than just open shelving, but it’s another great use for this piece of furniture. We also use IKEA Trofast bins as dressers, which the girls love because they can easily open and close the drawers to get at their clothes.

And now that this window seat is upholstered, the kids’ room is feeling pretty functional and organized these days. The kids love curling up with a good book, a pillow, and a blanket anytime they want!

How To Make A No-Sew Bench Cushion

Making a bench cushion is actually pretty easy, even if you’ve never upholstered something yourself before. The great thing about this DIY bench cushion is that you make it completely separately from the bench, then put the cushion on top of the bench at the end. This means you can make your cushion any size you want, so it will fit on any bench, window seat, storage bench, or any other long seat you already have. If you use outdoor fabric, you can even use this no-sew bench cushion for outdoor benches too!

The most important thing about DIY upholstery is having a good staple gun; being able to easily drive staples (without the gun jamming) makes a world of difference. I used an Arrow T50 R.E.D. staple gun and it made quick work of securing the fabric.

• 1/2″ plywood, cut exactly to the size of the top of your bench
• 2 yards of upholstery fabric
• 3″ medium density bench foam, cut exactly to the size of the top of your bench
• hi-loft batting (I bought the “full” size roll which is 81″ x 96″)
• 5 yards of upholstery trim (optional, I used this cute pink fringe trim)

The amount of the materials you’ll need depends on the size of your bench. The amounts listed above are how much I bought for this project. The top of our IKEA Kallax bench is 16 1/2″ x 57 7/8″ so I had the plywood cut to exactly that size at Home Depot before I bought it. Everything else I cut down to size myself and had a little left over.

• Arrow T50 R.E.D. staple gun
• Arrow T50 staples – 5/16″
• Arrow TR550 All Purpose Glue Gun
• Arrow clear hot glue sticks
• spray adhesive
• staple puller
• large serrated knife, like a bread knife
• drop cloth
• scissors

Start by cutting everything to the correct size.

I had my plywood cut to the correct size in Home Depot before I took it home, but you can cut yours down to size with a table saw or circular saw if you want to do it yourself.

Lay the plywood on top of the bench foam, lining up two sides at a corner. Mark the edges of the other two sides on the foam using a pen or marker.

Cut the foam down to size using a large serrated knife (like a bread knife, or an electric knife if you have one.) Don’t worry if the edges of the foam aren’t perfectly smooth; the batting will cover that up and smooth it out later.

Put the foam down on top of the plywood, then lay your batting over the foam. Trim the batting so that it overhangs the bottom of the plywood by a few inches on all four sides.

Next, attach all the pieces to make the DIY cushion.

Set all of the pieces aside and put down a drop cloth for this next part to protect your work area from overspray from the spray adhesive.

Put the plywood on the drop cloth, and coat the entire surface of the plywood with spray adhesive. Position the foam on top of the plywood so that all the edges are lined up, then gently press the foam onto the plywood for a few seconds until the adhesive dries.

The next step is to attach the batting. Batting helps minimize friction between the fabric and the foam, so you want it to be able to move a bit, but you can’t leave it totally unsecured or it will bunch up over time.

Lay the batting over the foam. Lift the batting up on one side and spray the side edge (the 3″ tall part) of the foam with spray adhesive. Press the batting gently against the side of the foam.

Repeat for all four sides. For the corners, press the sides smoothly all the way to the corner, leaving the extra batting puckering out at the point.

Trim the batting flush with the bottom of the plywood. I just ran one blade of my scissors along the wood and trimmed everything flush.

When you get to the corners, pull the puckered corner fabric straight out, away from the corner, then point your scissors straight down and cut off the excess batting flush with the corner.

Smooth the batting at the corners so that you don’t end up with wrinkles at your corners.

Now it’s time to actually upholster the DIY cushion by adding fabric.

Lay your fabric out on top of the cushion and line it up so that any patterns are straight and square to the cushion. Trim away the extra fabric, leaving 3-5″ of fabric overhanging the bottom of the plywood on all four sides.

Carefully turn the entire cushion over, including the fabric, so that the bottom of the plywood is facing up and the fabric is pretty side down. Double-check that your fabric pattern is still square to the cushion before you start stapling!

Starting in the middle of one straight edge (don’t start at a corner!) gently pull the fabric up and around to the back of the cushion and staple it to the plywood. Your staples should be 1″ to 2″ from the edge of the plywood; don’t worry if that leaves a bunch of loose fabric behind the staple, you will trim that off later. Be sure to pull the fabric straight back (perpendicular to the edge of the plywood) so that you don’t end up with weird pulls or pleats in your fabric as you go.

Continue gently pulling and stapling the fabric around all four straight sides, stopping about 4″ from the corners to leave room for pleating the corners.

Pro Tip

Use a lot of staples! There shouldn’t be more than a few millimeters between staples so that the tension is evenly spread out. Remember, staples are really inexpensive, so use a bunch! If there are large gaps between your staples, the fabric can pull and tear at those points when someone sits down on the cushion.

I also like to vary how far my staples are from the edge of the plywood so they aren’t all exactly lined up with each other. This helps spread out the tension across more of the fabric so it isn’t all pulling against one single line of staples.

I used an Arrow T50 R.E.D. staple gun which made this part of the project a breeze—it was fast and powerful and got the staples in nice and flat every time. And unlike other staple guns I’ve used before, it was really easy to squeeze the trigger. Even my 5 year old could do it, and she was so excited to help Mommy with a project!

How to upholster the corners of your cushion.

I like to upholster corners using a three-step process: I pull the center straight back and staple it once to hold it in place, then I fold one side in and staple it once, then fold the other side and staple it once. Once all three parts are tacked in place, I can go in and fuss with the fabric and add more staples.

I find this makes really pretty “wrapped” corners that are simple yet elegant, and it’s way easier than making a bunch of pleats and keeping them nice, neat, and even…

Here’s how to “wrap” the corners of your cushion:

Start in the center of one corner and pull the loose fabric straight up and over the corner of the plywood at a 45-degree angle. Make sure you don’t have any weird pleats or wrinkles in the fabric at the corner of the cushion, then add one staple to hold that piece in place. The sharp corner of the plywood will push into the fabric a bit, but that’s ok—there isn’t much tension on this section of the corner, and the next two steps will cover it up anyway.

Starting on one side, grab the fabric “wing” that is sticking out and fold it up towards the plywood like you’re wrapping a present. You’re aiming for a nice straight pleat that runs up and down the corner of the foam. It helps to put one finger on the corner of the foam (the corner that’s at the bottom of the cushion currently) while you fold the “wing” up.

Just like wrapping a present, there should be a 45-degree angle fold on the “inside” of the wing and a folded “pleat” that runs up and down the corner. You can adjust the pleat by sliding the fabric against itself. Sliding the fabric changes both the “inside” angle and the angle of the pleat at the same time. So just play around with it until you are happy with how the pleat looks.

Staple it once, close to the corner, to hold the pleat in place while you work on the other side.

You’ll do the exact same thing with the fabric on the other side of the corner—fold the wing up towards the plywood, like you’re wrapping a present. Create an “inside” 45-degree angle fold and a vertical pleat. Slide the fabric against itself to adjust the pleat until both pleats look good.

Staple it once near the corner to hold the second pleat in place.

You’ll need to add more staples to really secure the corner, but first, trim away excess fabric so that your corner doesn’t get too bulky. Be sure to leave 1-2″ of fabric to staple into.

Once the extra fabric is gone, add a bunch more staples to really hold it all in place. If there are any bits of fabric that stick out, fold them in on themselves and staple them down, keeping it all as flat as possible.

Repeat for the remaining three corners, then go around the entire back of the cushion and double-check that there aren’t any giant gaps in your staples.

How to remove staples easily, if needed

A couple of times the staples hit a knot in the plywood and bent as they were going in. If you find you have bent staples, or just put a staple in the wrong place, you can easily remove staples with a staple puller.

Slowly slide the narrow tip of the staple puller under the staple you want to remove, keeping the nose of the tool flat against the plywood as you go. Gently wiggle the staple puller from side to side as you push it under the staple, and the staple will pop right up after a few seconds!

You could also use a flathead screwdriver or other blunt, flat tool to remove staples, but it’s better to use a staple puller because it won’t scrape or tear the fabric as it slides under the staples.

Install the bench seat cushion

If you don’t want to permanently attach the cushion to your bench, just turn the cushion over and set it on top of your bench, and you’re done!

Because I know my kids won’t be super gentle with this window seat, I decided to secure the cushion on the bench with a couple of screws.

Put the cushion on your bench, then drive a few screws up into the plywood from the underside of the bench to secure the cushion at all four corners. Make sure your screws are long enough to go all the way through your bench and at least a 1/4″ into the plywood. You don’t want them to be so long that they go all the way through the plywood and into the foam or you might feel the tips of the screws poking through the cushion. (Though the 3″ foam is thick enough that you probably won’t notice if the screws stick up a tiny bit…)

My cushion sat mostly flat on our reading nook bench, but I wanted to add a bit of trim to make it pretty and cover up the small gap between the cushion and bench. This project is already a no-sew bench cushion, so I figured I would continue the trend and use hot glue to attach the trim rather than sewing it on.

Working in sections, I ran a thin bead of hot glue around the very bottom of the sides of the cushion and pressed a pink fringe trim into the hot glue for a few seconds until it dried.

The trim is optional, but I think it gives the cushion a clean, “finished” look, and it definitely helps cover up any weird bumps at the corners!

The whole project took me just over an hour and I’m thrilled with the results!

We moved the rocker back against the window as well, and now there are a bunch of great seating options if you want to read and look out the window.

If you want to do your own DIY upholstery project, I definitely recommend Arrow Fastener’s T50 R.E.D. staple gun. Plus they have a full line of manual, electric, and cordless staple guns, rivet tools, glue guns, nail guns, grommets, hammer tackers, and other tools and accessories for any other project where you want to fasten one thing to another. Whether you’re a pro or a weekend-DIYer, their products are easy to use and deliver quality results. Learn more about Arrow Fastener and their products (and where to buy them) on their website, plus find a bunch of other #MadewithArrow projects and tutorials on their site as well.

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DIY Bench Seat Cushion—Upholster A Cushion Without Sewing!

Learn how to make a no-sew bench cushion that fits any bench, window seat, or outdoor bench. You can make this DIY cushion with just a staple gun!

Course DIY Projects

Keyword fabric, playroom, upholstery

Cook Time 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Servings 1 bench cushion

Author Jessi Wohlwend

Cost $75

Equipment

• Arrow T50 R.E.D. staple gun
• 5/16″ staples
• Arrow TR550 All Purpose Glue Gun
• Arrow clear hot glue sticks
• spray adhesive
• staple puller
• large serrated knife
• drop cloth
• scissors

Ingredients

• 1/2" plywood cut exactly to the size of the top of your bench
• 2 yards upholstery fabric
• 3" bench foam cut exactly to the size of the top of your bench
• hi-loft batting
• 5 yards upholstery trim optional

Instructions

Cut everything to size

• Cut a piece of 1/2" plywood to the exact same size as the top of your bench.
• Lay your piece of plywood on top of your bench foam, lining it up on two sides at a corner. Use a pen or marker to mark the other two sides.
  
• Cut the foam along the marks so that the foam is the same size as the plywood.
  
• Lay the foam on top of the plywood, and lay the batting over the foam. Cut the batting to size, leaving a few inches overhanging the bottom of the plywood on all four sides.
  

Build the cushion

• With a drop cloth underneath the plywood, coat the entire top surface of the plywood with spray adhesive. Place the 3" bench foam on top of the plywood, line up all the edges, and gently press down to attach the foam to the plywood.
  
• Lay the batting on top of the foam and center it so the overhang is even on all sides. Use spray adhesive to attach the batting to the foam ONLY on the 3" tall sides of the foam; do not use spray adhesive on the top surface of the foam. Press along the sides of the foam all the way to the corners to ensure the batting is firmly attached, leaving a little pucker of batting at each corner.
  
• Trim the batting along each side so that it is flush with the bottom of the plywood.
  
• To trim the batting at the corners, smooth the batting straight along the sides until you reach a corner, then pull the pucker of extra batting straight out and away from the cushion. Cut straight down, through the batting, right at the corner of the foam.
  
• Smooth the batting along the sides of the foam and into the corners so the corners aren't wrinkled.
  

Attach the fabric

• Lay your upholstery fabric on top of the batting and line it up so that any patterns are straight on the cushion. Cut the fabric to size, leaving 3-5" of overhang past the bottom of the plywood.
  
• Turn the entire cushion over (including the fabric) so that the plywood side is facing up. Gently pull the upholstery fabric straight back towards the center of the plywood (perpendicular to the edge of the plywood), then staple it in place using a staple gun.
  
• Continue stapling the fabric to the bottom of the cushion on all four sides, making sure there aren't any large gaps between staples. Stop about 4" from the corners to leave room for pleating the fabric at the corners.
  

Upholster the corners of the cushion

• To upholster the corners, find the middle of the loose fabric at the corner and pull it up and over the corner of the plywood at a 45-degree angle. Staple the fabric once to hold it in place.
  
• Starting on one side of the corner, fold the "wing" of loose fabric up onto the plywood and form a vertical pleat running up and down the corner (like wrapping a present). Staple the fabric once right near the corner to hold it in place.
  
• Repeat the same process with the fabric on the other side, pleating it so that it too has a straight crease running vertically along the corner. Staple once to hold it in place.
  
• Cut away excess fabric to remove some of the bulk so your cushion can lay flat on your bench. Leave 1" to 2".
  
• Once the excess fabric is gone, add a bunch more staples to hold everything in place. If any fabric sticks out, fold it onto the back of the plywood (as flat as possible) and staple it. Repeat for the other three corners, then go back around all four edges of the cushion and add staples to fill in any gaps.
  

How to remove staples, if needed

• If you need to remove a staple, carefully slide the front of a staple puller under the staple, gently wiggling it side to side, until the staple pops up.
  

Install the cushion

• Turn the cushion over and position it on top of your bench. Drive screws from underneath the bench up into the plywood of the cushion to secure the cushion to the bench.
• Using a hot glue gun, attach the upholstery trim to the very bottom of the cushion to hide the gap between the cushion and bench.
  

Notes

If you prefer to wrap the batting all the way around the bottom edge of the plywood and staple it rather than using spray adhesive, you can totally do that! Just follow the instructions in the “Attach the fabric” section when attaching the batting, then repeat those instructions a second time to attach the fabric. Don’t try to do the fabric and batting at the same time.

The post How To Make A No-Sew Bench Seat Cushion was written by Jessi Wohlwend and appeared first on Practically Functional.

But not every wooden item in your house needs the same care. The laminate- or veneer-covered organizer from IKEA will require different treatment to clean and polish than the heirloom grandfather clock in your living room. There are a few basic rules to follow for all wooden pieces when it comes to furniture care, and then there are some tips and tricks to help you know how to polish furniture that requires special attention.

Let’s break it down so you can keep every wooden furniture piece in your home looking polished and new!

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The Importance of Dusting

I keep my house as tidy as I can, but dusting often gets moved to the bottom of my list, especially those areas we don’t use every day, like bookshelves and display cases. However, one of the best ways to care for your wooden furniture is to dust regularly. Dust can dull the surface, lead to scratches, and eventually give your furniture a cloudy, dirty appearance. Make regular dusting part of your routine as the easiest way to keep your wooden furniture looking new.

To dust furniture, you don’t need an array of specialized tools or products. In a pinch, a clean, soft cloth will work fine. Ideally, a chamois cloth (like the type you’d use for car care) is excellent for dusting. Dry-dust furniture regularly to keep it looking clean and fresh. For extra dirt and dust build-up, use a spritz of multipurpose cleaning spray, or simply good ol’ soap and warm water to moisten the cloth. When you’re cleaning older antique pieces with a damp cloth, test it in an inconspicuous corner first.

How often should you dust furniture? Well, ideally, dusting should be a weekly activity. It’s best to work from the top down, dusting the highest shelves and room areas first. Dust everything before you vacuum so you’re cleaning up all the fallen dust and keeping allergens at bay. If you have severe allergies in your household, never use a feather duster (which can make allergies worse by forcing the dust into the air rather than trapping it). Use a soft cloth and then follow up with the brush attachment on your vacuum.

Caring for Laminate Furniture

Of course, sometimes furniture needs a little more than dusting. Pieces like my daughter’s toy organizer get used frequently, and small, sticky hands can leave smudges and “goo.” If you have toddlers, their gear can get especially grimy since they put EVERYTHING in their mouths. I remember being particularly shocked to discover one of the dirtiest items in our home was my daughter’s teething toy!

To keep your furniture clean and germ-free, it needs regular cleaning. Pieces like the IKEA organizer I use for toys are typically made of laminate–basically manufactured pressboard or particleboard covered with a laminated or synthetic “wood look” material. Laminate furniture is usually lighter weight and more resistant to staining and scratching than solid wood. It’s also less porous so that it can stand up to occasional abuse like a spill or forgotten coaster.

With laminate furniture, dusting is an essential care method. You don’t need to worry about using special sprays made for wood since the surface isn’t porous. A multipurpose spray will do just fine. The synthetic material will fade in direct sun, and yes, it can sustain moisture damage, especially if you leave something like a plant resting on the surface for a long time.

Clean up spills and marks with soap and water and use that chamois cloth to dry. A multi-surface cleaning spray is a good idea for more stubborn stains but avoid ammonia-based sprays (like glass cleaner). Ammonia will dull the look of laminate.

Should your laminate furniture sustain damage, clean it up as best you can with soap and water. You may need to scrub with a brush and some elbow grease. If there’s a darker stain (like coffee or candle wax), you can use a bit of baking soda and water to make a paste. Test this method in an unnoticeable corner first to make sure you’re not harming the finish. Some people recommend bleach or nail polish remover for particularly bad stains but I would avoid harsh cleaning methods unless it’s a last-ditch effort to save the piece.

Unfortunately, scrapes and scratches are hard to fix. Once the laminate surface has been damaged, it’s difficult, if not impossible, to repair. You can try using furniture markers or even crayons to match the piece and fill in the damage as much as possible. Otherwise, consider covering the piece with decoupage, wallpaper, or a pretty table runner. Protect laminate surfaces by never setting down hot items without a pad or trivet and using a coaster for cold drinks or anything else that condensates.

How to Care for Veneer Furniture

Mid-Century Danish-design furniture often featured veneer. Like laminate, veneer consists of a coating over a lighter wood base. Unlike laminate, however,  veneer is made of very thin wood. Veneer furniture pieces may be vintage or even collectible. If you have a veneer piece of furniture, you’ll want to use care to keep it well-preserved.

Many of the guidelines that apply to solid wood also apply to veneer. You can clean and polish the furniture with a soft dry or slightly damp cloth. Always wipe the furniture in the wood grain direction when you dust and remember that regular dusting will keep the piece looking great. Some manufacturers recommend using a quality furniture polish (not a typical wax-based spray) every few months, or at the very least, as part of your spring cleaning routine.

The major drawback of veneer furniture is that the veneer coating is glued onto the base. While most pieces are durable and well-made, the veneer can start to peel away and curl up at the edges over time. Water and moisture damage are especially hard on veneer furniture pieces. If you notice this happening on a beloved piece, you may want to seek professional restoration advice.

For minor issues, a Scotchbrite pad (like you use for dishes) can remove dirt and fingerprints. Use a very light touch when doing this. Some (brave) people use fine-grain sandpaper, but you may risk damaging the furniture if you choose to do this. Home remedies and DIY fixes include rubbing a walnut on light scratches, using a furniture crayon, or a little mineral oil to restore and polish the furniture.

How to Polish Furniture Made from Solid Wood

Solid wood furniture is often high-quality. If you own a beautiful solid wood piece of furniture, you’ll want to take care of it with regular dusting and occasional polish. After a few years of use, a gorgeous oak dining table or stunning sideboard can show wear and tear from use, especially where food and drink are involved.

When you notice it’s time to polish the furniture, don’t immediately reach for the furniture spray! First, start with soapy, warm water in small amounts. Again, you should always test an area of the piece before cleaning and polishing the entire surface. Soap and water cleaning is usually plenty of treatment for most wooden furniture. If soap and water don’t get the piece clean enough to your liking, you next need to figure out whether the wood finish is oil-based or wax-based. Oil should be applied to oil-based pieces, while wax-finishes should only be polished with wax.

For oil-based finishes (that usually appear shiny), the next step for cleaning wood involves mineral spirits. Mineral spirits are a very dilute form of paint thinner made from petroleum. You can find them at most home improvement stores, near turpentine and other paint materials. Keep in mind, there is a smell associated with spirits, and they are liquid chemical solvent. If you decide to clean the piece with mineral spirits, work in circular movements, and use a minimal amount to start. Mineral spirits can help to remove layers of dirt that build up over the years. For grimy wooden furniture, Murphy’s Oil Soap is also an option. Always test before you do the surface of a piece.

Once the piece is clean, you can use a small amount of mineral oil to shine it up. Some folks like vegetable oil, and others say never to use it because it can smell rancid. Personally, I know my dad has used vegetable oil on his wooden cutting boards for years, and they smell great. But if you’re concerned about it, mineral oil is a good choice. Use a soft cloth to apply the oil and buff it off.

For furniture with wax-based finishes (that will appear satiny), once the wooden piece is clean, use a high-quality clear paste furniture wax. Some people like to rough up the surface slightly with steel wool, which helps the wax adhere to the surface. Go ahead and apply the wax to the piece (using a very thin layer). After at least 24 hours, buff, and polish furniture with a soft cloth.

Treating Scratches in Hardwood

Sometimes polishing furniture isn’t enough. If your piece has some water rings, nicks, or scratches, you have a few options. The great thing about solid wood is that, in the worst-case scenario, you can sand down a scratch and refinish the piece completely! You can stain or paint the piece depending on your preferences and end up with a whole new look.

On the other hand, some people dread the thought of making a mistake and losing the original look of a pretty piece of solid wood furniture (or simply don’t want to go through the refinishing process). If this sounds like you, don’t worry! You can still fix damage to your furniture without getting out the sander.

Believe it or not, one of the most effective ways to remove water stains on furniture is with mayonnaise! Of course, you should test this method on your piece before you start spreading the Hellman’s. Use a tiny amount of mayo on a soft cloth and rub the watermark until it comes off.

For a chipped finish, a drop or two of clear nail polish can repair the damage. Let the polish dry, and then lightly sand with very fine sandpaper to bring back the shine. If the color is missing from the chip, use a matching marker to fill in the spot first.

For scratches, wax furniture sticks often do the trick. Although deep scratches may require wood filler and a more robust restoration, most minor scratches and surface damage can be repaired without too much work. Once you’ve fixed the scratch or damage to your wooden furniture, clean and polish it, following the guidelines above.

Remember, the best way to care for your wooden furniture is to dust it regularly, keep it clean, and always use a protective pad or coaster. Wood furniture is solid and durable. Many pieces last for decades, even centuries. With regular cleaning and occasional polishing, your furniture will look great for years to come!

The post How to Clean and Polish Furniture to Keep it Looking New was written by Jessi Wohlwend and appeared first on Practically Functional.

But what about really cleaning that household hardware? After years of use, a weekly wipe off is probably not enough to keep doorknobs, pulls, and faucets looking their best and brightest. Not to mention the unsightly buildup of hard water, tarnish, and even rust that can accumulate over time.

Faucets, door handles, knobs, and pulls—these often-overlooked items in your home see a lot of action, but rarely get deep cleaned or shined up. Here’s how to clean household hardware to get every piece gleaming like new!

How to Clean Doorknobs, Handles, and Locks

Whether you live in an older home or a brand-new house, your doorknobs, handles, and locks can see a lot of activity. Think about how often your family touches these items—every time they walk in the room, a hand turns the knob or pulls the door handle.

But honestly, when was the last time you cleaned your front doorknob? Or even your bathroom doorknob? Most of us don’t focus on these items when we clean our house (even though they’re the most frequent touchpoints). Door handles, deadbolts, locks, knobs, and handles are a great starting point for any deep cleaning project.

For basic cleaning, almost any household hardware piece can be cleaned with a few drops of dishwashing liquid and warm water. Use a rag or an old, soft toothbrush to clean doorknobs. Dampen the cloth and then wipe the doorknob and hardware. Depending on the level of griminess, you may also need to use the toothbrush to scrub the nooks and crannies where dirt can get trapped. Once you’ve washed the hardware, thoroughly dry it to prevent rust.

You may need to use more robust cleaning methods for more severe soil levels, such as rust, tarnish, or grime. For squeaky hinges, oil will lubricate and silence the noise. Be sure to wipe up any extra oil to keep it from transferring to carpet, clothes, or tiny hands.

Oil may also help remove rust from hardware. Apply a small amount of oil to a rag and rub with pressure. I don’t recommend removing door hardware just for cleaning because it can be tough to get all the pieces back in place. If you do remove the hardware, or you’re attempting to restore already-removed hardware, don’t cover the hardware in liquid! If water gets into the locking mechanism or small mechanical components, it can damage or destroy the piece.

For grimy pieces, vinegar is another option to remove built-up dirt and gunk. Vinegar works well to remove tarnish from copper and brass hardware as well. You can make a paste of flour, salt, and vinegar. Rub it on the piece and then let it sit for several minutes. Wash it off with warm water and buff it with a cloth. Remember that vinegar is an acid, so proceed with caution; it can take the finish off some types of hardware. Test it on a small, inconspicuous area first.

Silver tarnished pieces can be cleaned and restored using a baking soda paste. Once again, test the mixture before slathering it over the doorknob, knocker, or handle. If it doesn’t seem to harm the finish, cover the piece with the paste and let it sit for a few hours. Then wipe off with warm water and polish dry with a soft cloth.

These tips should help you clean household hardware with ease and get those doorknobs looking bright, shiny, and brand new!

How to Clean Cupboard Pulls, Hinges, and Handles

Handles and other touchpoints should also be cleaned regularly. Now, most of us clean the faucet each time we clean the kitchen or bathroom—it’s part of our cleaning routine. Cupboard handles, drawer pulls, and knobs, on the other hand, are often ignored until they’re sticky, greasy, or downright gross.

In a kitchen (or bathroom), moisture, dust, and grease can build up and form a grungy paste covering almost every surface. Handles will start looking dull, blackened, and gross. A regular cleaning schedule will help keep them germ and gunk-free.

To clean your cupboard pulls and handles, you may want to take a screwdriver and remove them. I don’t suggest removing the hinges (they don’t tend to get as dirty anyway). Once the handles are removed, soak in the sink or a container in a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar. When cleaning a few handles, I usually use three cups of vinegar to three cups of water. Soak the handles for at least a few hours, or even overnight.

Once the handles and pulls are done soaking, you can rinse them off with water and dishwashing soap, which will cut any remaining grease. Then give each piece a final rinse and use a soft cloth to dry and shine.

For any unremovable hardware, use a cloth dampened in warm soapy water. Scrub the surface of the hinge or latch, and then wipe off and dry to a shine. I made magnetic latches for our cupboards to keep the kitties out. You can use soap and water to clean these kinds of latches as well. Just be sure to dry everything thoroughly when you’re done.

If you have vintage handles, knobs, or other hardware in your house, always test the items first. You can clean silver with a baking soda paste (following the same process for doorknobs). You should clean brass with lemon juice or vinegar and water in a 50/50 ratio. You may need to really scrub or even use a toothbrush to get these items polished up (especially if they haven’t been cleaned for a long time). Small bottle brushes or pipe cleaners can be useful for cleaning out intricately detailed spaces. Always be sure to dry each piece completely to avoid water damage.

How to Clean Your Bathroom Faucet

Now, I know, like me, you clean your bathroom regularly. But if you’ve ever taken a critical look at your bathroom faucets, you may notice a few grimy areas that need some attention. Water and soap can build up underneath the faucet. The area surrounding the faucet and handles can be tricky to clean and sometimes gets overlooked. Additional gunk can build up inside the ball-style handle of the sink or shower faucet. Plus, hard water mineral residue may end up clogging up the sprayer of your sink and shower.

If you notice any of these issues in your bathroom, it’s time to do a deep clean!

Plain old soap and water or multipurpose cleaning spray will do the trick for the basic cleaning. Use a sponge or scrub brush so you can really get in the nooks and crannies of your sink. A toothbrush makes an excellent tool for cleaning the area behind the faucet and around the handles.

If your bathroom hardware is looking particularly grimy or you notice white mineral buildup around the fixtures, it may be time for a more in-depth approach. To deep clean your sink, consider removing the handles. If your sink handles feature the globe-style clear plastic covers, use a knife to pry off the flat piece on the end. From there, unscrew the handle and remove it so that you can give it a thorough cleaning.

Vinegar will remove most hard water and mineral staining. If your faucet is clogged or gunked with mineral deposits, try the simple trick of putting vinegar in a plastic bag. Affix the bag to the faucet using a rubber band and let it sit for several hours (even overnight). Once you remove the bag, rinse and scrub as usual. Your shower or sink faucet will be shiny, and the spray will be strong. No more clogs!

Eventually, you may need to replace the faucet, which is an easy DIY home project. I created a tutorial when I updated my bathroom faucet and I must admit, replacing it made a huge difference. The whole bathroom felt refreshed!

How to Clean Your Kitchen Faucet and Sink

The next bit of household hardware that I like to tackle is the kitchen faucet and sink. I find that kitchen sinks get particularly gross; the combination of grease, food, and water makes for a sink sludge that seems to lurk even after you wipe down your faucet and sink.

First of all, the biggest tip for keeping your kitchen faucet and sink clean is always to do your dishes and wipe the sink down afterward. When even a small amount of water sits around the fixtures, it can warp the surrounding countertop, rot the caulk around the sink, and lead to mildew and mold. When combined with food residue, your sink is the perfect storm for bacteria.

Each time you eat, rinse your dishes and put it in the dishwasher (or wash the dish by hand). Dry the dishes and put them away, then wipe down the sink. Be sure to wipe and dry behind the faucet—this narrow area is hard to reach and often gets gunky.

If your sink is looking dull with water spots or grime, take some time for deep cleaning. Like the bathroom faucet, you can usually clean these fixtures with a multipurpose cleaning spray or soap and water. Wash thoroughly and scrub using a brush or sponge. If you need more robust cleaning power, vinegar does the trick. A natural grease-cutter, vinegar is great for cleaning and shining up areas of the kitchen.

Like your bathroom faucet, your kitchen fixtures can likely be unscrewed and removed for more thorough cleaning. Clogs can be alleviated with the vinegar-in-a-bag trick, which will keep your kitchen sprayer powerful.

One word of caution—if you have special finishes on your kitchen hardware (vintage brass, brushed nickel, or plating), you may need to check the manufacturers’ instructions. Soap and water are safe for most kitchen surfaces but always do your research to make sure.

How to Touch Up Other Hardware in Your Home

Now that your faucets, knobs, and fixtures are gleaming, let’s talk about the other hardware around your home. For the most part, the tips outlined above will help you clean your household hardware in every room.

In your kitchen, the handles on your stove and fridge should be cleaned regularly. You can wipe these down with soap and water or multipurpose spray. A scrub brush or toothbrush is useful for getting into tight spots. Even a toothpick can help you to de-gunk the small cracks and crevices in these areas.

In the bedroom and living room, clean the drawer handles and shelving with a soft, damp cloth. If you’re sure about the material, you can use brass or silver polish to remove tarnish. If you’re unsure, test a small, inconspicuous area, or use a small amount of soapy water. Some older knobs are plated, and I’ve even seen knobs made of plastic and painted with metallic paint. Use caution that you don’t remove the finish when you’re cleaning.

If you’re anything like me, as soon as you start looking around your house, you’ll notice all kinds of hardware that need sprucing up. Once you’ve done a deep clean, touch up and clean your household hardware regularly as part of your monthly cleaning routine (more often for high touchpoints). With a regular schedule, the hardware around your house will stay bright, shiny, and looking like new!

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The post How to Spruce Up and Clean Your Household Hardware was written by Jessi Wohlwend and appeared first on Practically Functional.

Having the right essentials on hand can give you peace of mind and help you feel prepared. Any of us can experience a sudden crisis like an injury, weather emergency, or power outage. In some situations, it may take emergency responders time to reach you or you may need to deal with minor injuries on your own.

So, what are the first aid and emergency essentials that you should always have around? I suggest going through this list and collecting these items to keep in one designated spot. (We keep our emergency essentials in the hall closet, which is centrally located and easy to access.) That way, if something happens, you’ll always know exactly where to go.

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1. Candles & Matches

Most of the minor emergencies we face aren’t life-threatening or dire. Many are merely inconvenient for a while. One of these situations is an unexpected power outage. If the lights go out, do you have some candles on hand? Do you know where your matches or a lighter are?

Don’t be left scrambling in the dark! I made some simple emergency candles out of recycled cat food cans. I keep these little candles handy for plenty of light in dark situations. These candles will last hours, and they’re easy to make. Better yet—they’re a great way to use up the leftovers of nicer candles when they burn down. Tuna or cat food cans are the perfect size for these little candles.

2. Flashlight & Batteries

Along with emergency candles, a good, reliable flashlight is priceless when the power is out. It’s generally good to keep a few flashlights tucked away for emergencies. One or two flashlights always seem to inevitably get “lost” or borrowed for a camping trip, late-night reading session, or trick-or-treat walk. So, buy more than one to store.

Keep at least one of your flashlights among your first aid kit necessities. Don’t forget to keep an extra set of batteries with the flashlight too! When you do the annual replacement on your smoke detector batteries, remember to swap out the batteries in your emergency kit flashlight. That way, you’ll never be left with a useless flashlight in the dark.

3. Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is one of those items that rarely gets used unless you really need it. As you put together your first aid kit necessities, make sure you have a nice full bottle of isopropyl alcohol in your kit. Not only does rubbing alcohol come in handy for cleaning small cuts and scrapes, but it’s great to disinfect surfaces in a pinch too. It kills many germs instantly. Use it to clean off tweezers and other tools. 

Keep in mind that rubbing alcohol should be stored safely—don’t use it around flames, never ingest it (obviously), and use it in only well-ventilated areas. Don’t use rubbing alcohol in large quantities to flush a wound and never use it on burns. In small amounts, rubbing alcohol is an important first aid essential.

4. Bandages

Adhesive bandages are a first aid kit necessity, especially if you have kids! Many scrapes, scratches, and booboos feel “better” with the TLC of a Band-Aid. Bandages form a protective barrier that keeps bacteria and dirt away from healing cuts, preventing infection. 

Even for adults, having a few bandages in your first aid kit is essential. Adhesive bandages help prevent blisters and hot spots. Bandages can also provide needed pressure to stop bleeding from minor cuts (and keep you from getting blood anywhere else).

5. Aloe Vera

I love natural remedies like aloe. The jelly-like insides of the aloe plant can be used to soothe scrapes, scratches, and regular burns. In the summer, you can use it to comfort sunburnt skin. In the winter, wind-chapped skin also feels better with aloe vera.

Keep a bottle of aloe vera with your other first aid kit necessities. The gel is inexpensive and easy to find in the sunscreen section of most pharmacies and grocery stores. Aloe vera is moisturizing and comforting. It’s odorless and colorless, making it easy for almost anyone to use.

6. Antibacterial Gel

A tube of Polysporin or Neosporin is an excellent addition to your first aid kit. Antibacterial gel or balm will keep cuts and broken skin from becoming infected. It’s soothing and protective—a good idea if you’re treating a broken blister, a sliver, or a scratch. 

Keep in mind antibacterial gel often has an expiration date. So, if you have a tube lingering in a bathroom cabinet, check the end (usually where the tube has been stamped together) to see if there’s an expiration date listed. When in doubt, throw it out and start fresh.

7. Pain Reliever

Depending on your family’s personal preferences, you may want to include ibuprofen, Tylenol, Aleve, or another pain reliever in your family first aid kit. I don’t recommend keeping a myriad of different pills in the kit because they will probably expire before using them (and expired medication can even become toxic).

For most first aid kits, a small bottle of pain reliever is enough. Keep the bottle out of the reach of kids, of course, and keep the pills in the original container—this will allow you to identify the pills, AND it will help you watch the expiration date. If you have younger kids, you may want to keep a child’s pain-reliever/fever reducer in the kit as well.

8. Thermometer

Like most families, we keep a thermometer in the bathroom cabinet. I like to keep a backup thermometer in the first aid kit, though. If we ever needed to grab the kit and go, we would have it (plus, it’s just nice to have an extra if the batteries run out).

A thermometer is helpful because fever can be a sign of illness or infection. Keeping one in your family first aid kit will ensure you never get caught in the middle of the night without being able to run a temperature check on a sick child. Having access to a thermometer can make the difference when you’re trying to make a hard decision about going to the doctor NOW or waiting until morning.

9. Gauze

Gauze is another useful first aid kit necessity. Gauze is absorbent and soft, so it helps apply ointment and dress wounds. You can use gauze to protect broken skin from a burn, while still allowing the injury to “breathe” and heal. Keep the bandage in the sterile packaging until you’re ready to use it—that will ensure no germs or bacteria are present when you cover an injury.

Gauze can also be used as a makeshift rope. If you need to tie or secure something in an emergency, a roll of gauze is useful to have on hand. In a pinch, you can even use gauze as toilet paper (but don’t flush it)!

10. TUMS or Antacids

Your stomach may feel queasy in an emergency, and you may or may not have access to the restroom. For example, during a hurricane or tornado, you may need to shelter in your basement for a while—it is NOT a good time for a stomach upset.

I like to keep a small roll of TUMS in our family first aid kit. These are chewable, don’t need to be taken with water, and soothing on a sour stomach. That said, follow the direction on the packaging for children under 12. There are also children’s TUMS available if you have younger kids.

11. Hand Warmers

I like to keep a set of instant hand warmers amongst my first aid kit necessities. The hand warmers work very simply—remove them from the outer plastic packaging, shake, and they will stay warm for up to 8 hours. These are perfect for keeping little hands and toes warm during a power outage.

I also like to keep a few hand warmers in my car if we’re ever stalled or stranded. You can even stuff them in the toes of your boots if you have to walk far in the snow. One thing to remember about hand warmers: don’t put them on bare skin or near very young kids. They don’t typically get hot enough to burn, but they can cause some discomfort if they’re too close to the skin.

12. Instant Ice Packs

If you’ve never used these before, you’ll be amazed! Instant ice packs are genius! You simply squeeze the pack to break the inner bag. Some chemicals inside the package mix and turn icy cold. These ice packs are perfect for injuries because they reduce swelling, bruising, and pain.

Anyone with kids knows that ice packs are a quick fix for a myriad of booboos. While these instant ice packs are a little expensive for day-to-day use, they’re invaluable in an urgent situation. A bee sting, a fever, or a twisted ankle will feel better with instant ice.

13. Tweezers

Tweezers are another first aid kit necessity. These handy tools are useful for many different situations—carefully removing a sliver, pulling out a tick, or removing something from a small space. There are a variety of uses for tweezers.

Keep a sharp pair of really good tweezers in your kit. I like the slanted ones made by Tweezerman, but most drugstore varieties will do. Alternatively, you can keep a multitool like a Leatherman or a Swiss Army knife in your first aid kit instead. The tweezers included in these tools are often less sharp than the drugstore type, but they offer an array of other items that can also be useful in emergencies.

14. Water

Even if you don’t keep water directly in your first aid kit, stashing a bottle or two on the shelf near your first aid kit can be extremely useful in an emergency. During an earthquake, flood, or another natural disaster, the water may be shut off for a few hours (or longer). 

Even if you  keep extra water in your pantry, it doesn’t hurt to have a bottle or two near your first aid kit. If someone falls outside or needs to visit the ER, it’s beneficial to have a bottle of water handy to bring along. When stressful situations occur, many of us have a hard time thinking clearly—make it easy on yourself by keeping what you need on hand.

15. Snacks

Should you keep snacks in your family first aid kit? I don’t think it hurts to stash a couple of granola bars, fruit snacks, or a small package of nuts in your first aid box. You’ll definitely need to change these out regularly, so choose items with a very long shelf life.

If you’re sheltering from bad weather for a few hours, a snack or two will come in handy. You might be able to reach your cupboards or pantry in emergencies, but you never know. Keeping a few snacks in the pack is also helpful for grab-and-go emergencies or trips to the doctor.

Of course, none of us likes to think of emergencies, but should you face one, you’ll thank yourself for taking the right steps to be prepared. Put together a simple family emergency kit with these first aid kit necessities to stay ready no matter what life throws your way. 

The post 15 Emergency Essentials and First Aid Kit Necessities was written by Jessi Wohlwend and appeared first on Practically Functional.

Have you ever looked at something and wondered how often you should wash it? A few months ago, I was reading a Facebook debate about how often you should wash jeans. Let me tell you—opinions varied widely and strongly! I saw every answer from “never” (for real?!) to “after each wear” to someone who stored their jeans in the freezer to help them retain their shape. 

This debate got me thinking about all the other pieces of clothing and household items we use and how often you should wash them. Do you really need to wash every piece of clothing every time you wear it? What about towels? Pillows? 

None of us wants to walk around in dirty, smelly clothes. But it’s also no secret that frequent washing can wear out your clothing and shorten its lifespan. So, I decided it was time to figure out (and share), once and for all, how often should you wash…everything! 

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How Often Should You Wash Your Clothes?

There’s no blanket answer to how often you should wash your clothes. This is especially true for children’s clothing and items that see heavy use. With some kids, you’ll probably need to wash shirts and play clothes after each wear (let’s face it, probably after an hour).

Other items, like kid’s dress-up clothes, work clothing, suits, ties, and even pajamas, have different timetables. The first rule is always to check the label and read the manufacturer’s instructions. If you need a guide on what all those little symbols mean, check out my post on deciphering laundry icons and their meanings. (I even created a printable guide to help you translate the hieroglyphics.)

As for the general guidelines, here’s when you should wash the following items.

How Often Should You Wash Knits and Casual Wear?

A lot of casual wear, like tees and tanks are knits, which means you can safely wash these items every time you wear them. Most clothes that you wear next to your body as a base layer should be washed frequently because oil and sweat tend to get trapped in the fibers. Plus, knits tend to stretch out and get misshapen when they aren’t washed regularly. Washing these items after each wear gives you a chance to treat pit stains, too!

Most knits can be washed with like colors, following the guidelines on the label. 100% cotton items tend to shrink a bit during the first few wash and dry cycles, so you may want to let them air dry or remove them from the dryer early. To prevent wrinkles, simply pull the items of out the dryer immediately, and fold them. Hanging can also be good for some items, but keep in mind that hanging can stretch out the neck and lead to shoulder dimpling in some knits. 

How Often Should You Wash Jeans?

The source of the great debate—jeans! So, how often should you really wash your jeans? Well, jean manufacturers recommend washing every 3-10 wears. For raw denim (those expensive, designer jeans), washing should be very sparing to prevent fading, but for “regular” jeans from the Gap or Levi’s, you can safely wash them about every three wears. Oh, and the freezer method? It doesn’t work! 

For dark denim, turning the jeans inside out can help prevent fading. You’ll also want to avoid throwing stretchy denim in the dryer for too long, as the elastic can break down in high heat. Keep in mind, though, if you pull out jeans when they’re still damp, you’ll need to fold or hang them right away, or you may end up with a strange crease pattern.

How Often Should You Wash Bras? Underwear? Socks?

Bras seem to be another area of debate. I’ve explained before why you should always handwash your bras to extend their life and keep them looking great. Wash your bras every 3-6 times you wear it. If you must use the machine, put it in a lingerie bag and wash it on the delicate cycle. Good bras can be a serious investment, and as every gal knows bra shopping is the WORST, so don’t destroy your bra by boiling and cooking it in the wash.

As for underwear and socks, it probably goes without saying, but you should wash these items every time you wear them. Sweat and bacteria accumulate on our feet and nether regions, and it’s hygienic and healthy to wash these items every wear. If you’re concerned about keeping your “good” underwear nice, you can definitely wash them by hand or use a lingerie bag to protect them. As for socks, the best practice is to make sure to unroll them and flatten them out before you throw them in the washer, so they’ll end up properly clean and dry. 

How Often Should You Wash Pajamas?

Pajamas are another clothing item that I get asked about. Do you need to wash your pajamas after every wear? Doesn’t that add so much to your laundry load? Good news! You don’t need to wash your pajamas every time you wear them, especially if you’re just putting them on to go to bed and taking them off in the morning. As long as they still smell fresh and clean, you can wear them 3 or 4 times before washing. You can wait a little longer if you shower at night right before putting on your pj’s. 

Bathrobes can go for many uses before you need to wash them, but again, make sure your robe passes the “sniff” test. If it starts to smell sour or off, then it’s definitely time to wash it. If you only put it on after bathing (and especially if you put it on over your pajamas), then you can wear it quite a few rounds before you need to launder your robe.

How Often Should You Wash Workout Gear and Athleisure?

Workout gear is a little tricky. Unnecessary extra washing can break down fabric, but so can sweat, sunscreen, and deodorant. You may notice that your antiperspirant causes the armpits of your workout tops to get a little stiff or yellow. You can spot-treat pit stains with a bit of vinegar or hydrogen peroxide.  

Your sports bra will likely need to be washed after every workout. Hand wash and air dry to help preserve support and elasticity. If you are doing light exercises and sweat minimally (like a gentle yoga workout, for example), then you may want to wash it every other wear. The same goes for yoga pants and leggings.

Unfortunately, unwashed workout clothes can lead to breakouts. The special sweat-wicking fabric      pulls moisture away from your body, but traps it in the fabric fibers. This leads to that sweaty, musty smell that we all want to avoid. If you want to play it safe, wash your workout gear every time you sweat. Yes, the items may not last as long, but look at it as an excuse to shop for more comfy, casual athleisurewear. 

Jackets, sweatshirts, hoodies, and other layered gear don’t require a frequent washing schedule. Laundering these items every 5-10 wears, especially if they’re worn as outer layers to stay warm, is usually enough. As always, read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions before you throw them in the wash. 

How Often Should You Clean Sweaters?

Have you ever pulled a sweater out of the dryer and panicked? It’s easy to forget while you’re in a laundry-doing mood, but most sweaters are dry clean only (see the information about reading labels above). Due to the loose weave of the fibers and materials like synthetics, cotton, and wool, sweaters don’t like too much heat, or even water. 

But dry cleaning gets expensive, especially in the wintertime when your sweaters are in heavy rotation. You can refresh sweaters by gently hand washing them using mild soap and vinegar. Gently roll the sweater in a towel to squeeze out water, and then lay flat to dry.

If you layer your sweaters over another top, you may be able to get away with dry cleaning them once or twice a season. Use caution when you store sweaters for the summer months, though; sweat and food particles can attract moths and other pests, so it’s best to store them after they’re cleaned. 

How Often Should You Wash Workwear?

Assuming you have an office job, you may need to launder jackets, blouses, suits, and ties regularly. Read every single label so that you don’t wreck an expensive piece by accidentally washing it when it’s dry clean only. Once again, you don’t need to have your workwear dry cleaned every single time you wear it. If it smells fresh and is holding the shape, you can probably launder it every 3-4 wears.

Can you do dry cleaning at home? There are special at-home dry cleaning kits you can buy that allow you to clean clothes at home. These kits are useful for refreshing and spot-treating your clothes, but they won’t do the same work that a professional dry cleaner can do. Many natural fabrics can also be washed by hand and ironed at home, but proceed with caution. You may want to test fabric for bleeding or fading in an inconspicuous spot before dunking it in a water bath. Anything that’s embellished or made of delicate materials (like silk) should be left to professionals.  

How Often Should You Clean Formal and Dress Attire?

The little black dress you bring out once or twice a year for the wedding season probably doesn’t need to be cleaned after each wear. Unless you spill during the toast or work up a sweat on the dance floor, you can hang the dress back up in your closet and wear it several times. If you do spill, quickly blot up or scrape off as much of the stain as possible, treat it if you can, and get the item to your dry cleaner ASAP. 

Suits, tuxedoes, and formal dresses should be cleaned by a professional. These items are often far too expensive to make a wash mishap worth the risk. Protect your investment and splurge on dry cleaning after several wears (which may only be every few years).

How Often Should You Clean Coats and Outerwear?

Your winter coat will last almost all season without requiring professional cleaning. Some parkas are machine washable, so check the label. Be sure you remove any fur trim or other accessories, if possible. And zip up or fasten the coat to keep the hardware from damaging the fabric during the wash cycle. 

You should have most coats professionally cleaned before you put them away for the season. Always use a professional cleaner for wool, leather, and suede (or coats with a lot of embellishment). Dry cleaning a coat can be expensive, but it’s often worth the cost of around $25 to preserve an item you’ll wear for several years. 

How Often Should You Wash These Household Items?

Now that we’ve covered the definitive list of how often you should wash your clothing, let’s look at household items. Many of these pieces go under the radar when it comes to regular washing, but after time they can get dust mites, mildew, and worse. Here’s how often you should wash these everyday household items.

How Often Should You Wash Towels?

Do you wash your towel after each use, or do you hang it up and let it dry for the next shower? If you designate one towel per person in your household and they only use the towel after bathing, you don’t need to wash it each time it’s used. Presumably, you’re drying off your clean body that you just washed, so the towel should stay clean as well. 

Wash bath towels after 3-4 uses. You may want to wash them more frequently if they start to look dingy, if you dye your hair (and the dye transfers to the towel), or if someone in your household uses Benzoyl Peroxide for their skin, which can fade clothing and other items. 

Washcloths should be washed after each use, hand towels should be changed every day or every-other-day, depending on the frequency of use. Kitchen towels need to be cleaned daily to prevent the spread of bacteria and foodborne illness. 

How Often Should You Wash Table Linens?

Tablecloths are less popular than they were a few decades back. Many of our mothers and grandmothers would clean and starch tablecloths and napkins almost every week. These days, most of us only haul out the “fancy” tablecloth and napkins for special occasions. Placemats and table runners are the norm.

Table decorating trends aside, you can probably get away with washing your tablecloth after several uses, assuming nothing spills on the table. Foods and oils stain, so if there are any drips after Thanksgiving, you’ll want to spot treat and get the tablecloth into the washer right away. Most table coverings are now made from stain-resistant polyester, making them easy-to-wash and wrinkle-free (vintage table linens will need a more delicate touch). 

How Often Should You Wash Your Sheets?

You should wash your sheets weekly, at least every other week. Clean sheets are especially important for people who suffer from breakouts and skin problems because oil and sweat can transfer to your bedclothes in the night.  

Fortunately, most sheets are easy to care for. You can simply pop them in the washer and dryer, and they’re ready to go, no special treatment needed. If you remove the sheets from the dryer right away, they’ll stay wrinkle-free and look great. Fold the fitted sheet, then the top sheet, and wrap them inside a pillowcase to keep every set neat and together. 

How Often Should You Wash Pillows?

Allergy sufferers might be surprised to discover that your pillow can be a significant source of discomfort. Pillows trap dust mites, dander, and even pollen. It’s essential to wash your pillows regularly, and even replace them often!

I was amazed at what a difference washing my pillows made. They went from dingy to bright white and brand-new-looking in just one simple wash. It was easy to launder them and now I do it regularly. Experts recommend washing your pillow covers every three weeks, the inner pillow every three months, and replacing pillows every six months to three years. 

How Often Should You Wash Blankets and Bedding?

Like pillows, your comforter and blankets can trap dust mites, pet fur and dander, and more. It’s best to launder your blankets and other bedding regularly. Comforters may require professional dry cleaning or a trip to the laundromat. Often the larger capacity washers and dryers can handle bulky blankets better.

It may seem like a pain to wash these items often, but washing your duvet or comforter once a season will help everyone in your household stay healthy and breathe easily. If someone in your family gets sick, you should wash and clean all the bedding, including the comforter, to prevent the spread of illness.

Hopefully, this gives you a good idea of how and how often you should wash everything in your house. Keeping up on your laundry regularly will help make the task less overwhelming and a little easier. Once you get in a routine, you may find that you’re doing less laundry than before (just be sure to take your jeans out of the freezer and put them in the wash)!

The post How Often Should You Wash It? A Guide for When to Wash Everything! was written by Jessi Wohlwend and appeared first on Practically Functional.

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Gardening can be intimidating for people. It’s natural to fuss over your seedlings and worry that you’re doing it “wrong.” When I first started gardening, I definitely agonized over every leaf and growth delay. But once you get started, you realize it’s literally as easy as putting plants in pots and letting nature take its course. Plus, there’s nothing quite as rewarding as harvesting that first tomato or using some of your home-grown basil leaves in your pasta!

You don’t need a whole bunch of space to start gardening either. A small porch or patio offers plenty of room to grow amazing plants and flowers. So, if you’re ready, here’s how to get started with easy container gardening.

1. Assess Your Space and the Sun

Container gardening doesn’t need to be stressful. You don’t need to map and plan or space out plants in the way you would with a raised bed or a garden plot. What you will need to remember is to be aware of your space. You can fit quite a few pots in a small, 4 ft x 6 ft balcony, especially if you’re strategic and use vertical gardens, plant stands, and trellises for climbing plants. If you’re brand new to container gardening, it usually makes sense to start small with a few pots before you branch out.

It’s also important to be aware of the sun. A southern facing porch will get more sun and exposure than a shady northern-facing patio. If you want to grow container tomatoes or peppers, you will need a lot of sunshine. Rosemary and lavender require full sun as well. On the other hand, many herbs like basil and leafy greens like lettuce will flourish with partial sun (and can even grow in a window).

If you want to grow flowering plants, then marigolds, petunias, and geraniums will enjoy a sunny porch space. Impatiens, coleus, and begonias do well in the shade. Don’t worry if you don’t feel like you have a lot of sun exposure; there are still pretty shade plants that look great when grouped in pots.

2. Learn About Your Growing Region

Do you know your growing region? You don’t need to break out ye olde Farmers’ Almanac (although honestly, it is a helpful resource for gardeners). You can still enjoy easy container gardening without substantial research or planning for your specific area—simply “spy” on your neighbors. What plants are doing well on their porches?  

Look at the plants that are common to your area. In desert regions, you may see a lot of succulents, cacti, and hot weather plants. Warmer regions may be able to enjoy easy container gardening all year round on the patio. Residents of colder northern areas tend to have more luck with flowering plants and greenery. Ornamental cabbages, peppers, and mums are popular options in the fall, across the United States.

You probably won’t have as much luck with hibiscus or lemon trees in Montana or Vermont. Delicate greens may wilt (or require constant watering) in New Mexico and Texas. While it’s not impossible to grow certain plants out-of-region, newbies will have more luck with local flora. Look for “native plants” at the nursery to ensure you have good luck with growing. 

3. Get Pots for Easy Container Gardening

It seems obvious, but if you want to container garden, you’re going to need to collect some containers. You don’t need to run out and purchase a barrage of pots to start. Readymade flower baskets that you can get at the grocery or hardware store are often already in sturdy containers with no repotting required. You can also find many great pots second-hand or even at your local discount or dollar store. Spruce them up with some paint and you’re good to go!

If you have some drainage, you can use almost anything as a container for your garden. The most crucial requirement for pots is that they offer adequate drainage (like a hole in the bottom). However, you should add some rocks in the bottom of the pot, and a layer of activated charcoal to prevent root rot and keep your plants healthy.           

One of the most convenient parts of container growing is that you can move your garden around as needed. If a pot needs a little less sunshine, pull it in toward your house. In a torrential rain or hailstorm, protect your delicate plants by giving them cover. When the weather gets cold, you can even move some plants indoors next to a sunny window. 

4. Remember Drainage and Water

Once you’ve covered the sunlight and container parts of container gardening, another essential is water. If you’re gardening on a patio or porch, you may or may not have access to water. Most high-rise apartments don’t have a hose connected to the balcony. You’ll need a plan so you can give your plants a regular drink.

A simple watering can does the job well. You can dress it up with some decals, or look for a chic vintage can to add personality. Keep the watering container right on your porch for easy access. Whenever you go out, make it a habit to fill up the can and give your thirsty plants some water.

With container gardening, the biggest struggle is remembering to water enough, while also ensuring you don’t over-water and drown out your plants either. It may take some time to get a schedule figured out, but generally, if the soil feels dry to the touch or the plant looks a bit droopy, it’s time to hydrate. If the leaves look yellow or the soil feels consistently moist, let the pot dry out. If you’ve set up adequate drainage, your container plants shouldn’t get too waterlogged. 

5. Go with Good Soil

Water, sunlight, air, and finally, soil are the components you need for any type of gardening, including container gardening. Since you’re only filling up small pots and containers with dirt, go ahead and get a bag or two of high-quality potting soil. Miracle-Gro soil is a good option, but your local nursery will have different varieties. 

If you include succulents or cacti in your container garden, look for sandy soil. For vegetables, berries, and flowers, standard potting soil is a good choice. Pack each container, so the earth is sturdy (not loose). Once your plants are in the containers, add water. You may need to add a little additional soil later as it settles in the pots.

You can add fertilizer to your water, but Miracle-Gro soil is already quite nutrient-dense, so it’s probably not necessary at first. When you use potting soil, you will miss out on the bugs, worms, and beneficial bacteria that come from gardening in the ground, so keep an eye on your plants. Every few weeks, “feed” your garden with plant food (available in sticks or as a water additive).

6. Start Small & Easy for Quick Success

Now, I know it’s tempting to start up a full-fledged farm on your porch but start small. My recommendation is to start with 3-4 different types of plants. Plant some herbs, lettuces, and a few vegetables or do a couple flowering baskets and individual pots of marigolds to begin. Start with seedlings for more success (although you can start seeds indoors and transfer them, as well). Every plant has different sun and water requirements, so be sure you can handle 3-4 before branching out—this will keep you from feeling overwhelmed by container gardening.  

Experiment to see what works well in your containers. Root vegetables may be tough to grow in regular-sized pots, but if you have a trough, washtub, or deep planter on your porch or patio, you may be able to grow tubers and root veggies galore. Similarly, climbing pole beans might take over your patio, and squash might get too large for your space. 

Start small, especially if you’re planting your container garden mid-season (or late in the season). Go with a few small fall-friendly decorative plants (like mums or kale) to brighten your porch and then work your way to growing bigger down the road, and plan to start early next spring.

7. Mix Up Tastes, Sights, and Smells

Part of the fun of container gardening is mixing up your plants with different tastes, smells, and looks. Some gardeners like to stick with herbs or plant only flowers. Others like to plant greenery that can live indoors during the winter months.

Personally, I like to plant a variety of plants together. It’s fun to have a colorful flowering basket with edible nasturtiums, feathery-dill, and silvery sage, interspersed with flowers like geraniums, and alyssum. You can even look into complementary plantings. For example, marigolds repel many tomato eating bugs, so planting the two together is a natural fit.  

It’s also fun to plant “salsa baskets” or “salad pots,” where you put the components all in one container—a tomato plant, cilantro, chives, and a few peppers, or lettuces with herbs, cherry tomatoes, and mini cucumbers. Gardening is really a sensory experience, so make the most of the various sights, smells, and tastes in your container garden.

8. Learn from Your Experience 

Each time you plant a garden, you will learn valuable lessons. Every year, I learn more and more about gardening and growing plants. One year, you may discover that strawberries don’t yield much fruit for your container garden, and the next year, you might have a bumper crop of zucchini. 

I like to keep a little notebook and jot down lists of the plants that thrive and those that struggle. I note where I planted them and if there were any hazards I noticed (like hungry bunny rabbits and birds). Keeping track of the successes helps my garden get better every year. Remember, it’s all about trial and error—learn as you go!

Even if you have only a small area to plant, you can add a lot of life and joy to your porch, patio, deck, or balcony with some easy container gardening. Start with simple plants and build on your success. You may discover your own green thumb!

The post 8 Steps to Start Easy Container Gardening on Any Patio or Porch was written by Jessi Wohlwend and appeared first on Practically Functional.

When you upcycle something, you give it a new life. It’s amazing how an item that’s used, outgrown, or discarded can come out looking like a fabulous treasure with a little embellishment. This is one area where cutting machines like Cricut and Silhouette Cameo shine. With some vinyl, transfers, and cool artwork (either of your own design or pre-made), you can create something beautiful and unique.

If you’re new to cutting machines, I suggest you explore my Cricut tutorials first. Are you trying to decide on the right machine? I’ve broken down a comparison of the Cricut machines to help you weigh the pros and cons. No matter what you choose, there are all sorts of projects at your fingertips. 

Ready to explore some of the best upcycled Cricut ideas? Here’s where to begin. 

How to Find Items for Cricut Upcycle Projects at the Thrift Store

When I go to a thrift store, I often get a little overwhelmed. I’m not sure what to look for—which items are “upcycle” worthy. What do I need or want? So, before we explore these cute upcycled Cricut ideas, I wanted to share a few tips to help you shop.

How to find great items to upcycle at the thrift store:

• Look for clothes in solid colors or small patterns.
• Look for items in good (like new) condition.
• Explore the framed art section for solid frames (even if the art inside isn’t your taste).
• Watch for mirrors and shadow boxes.
• Visit the appliance section and look for minimally used items, often still in the box.
• Pick up containers like storage bins, boxes, and even jars.
• Look for dishes that are plain, solid, or feature small patterns.
• Don’t miss linens like extra fabric, tablecloths, lampshades, and even curtains.
• Seek items with smooth surface areas that are easier to work with.
• Watch for glassware that’s chip-free with a smooth surface.

I have two main ways of thrifting: either I go in with a project in mind and look for the perfect supplies, or I browse the store and let inspiration jump out. Either method works if you allow your creative juices to flow.

Sometimes having a specific project in mind can pose a challenge, as you may need to be flexible with the availability of items. For example, if you want to make a shadow box or mirror project, you might not find an appropriate item at the thrift store this time around. On the other hand, if you want to upcycle a plain shirt, you will find a wide array of options.

I like to take a combination approach. I go shopping with a few projects in mind, and then, if I find a treasure, I ask myself how I could personalize and upgrade the item. If I find a great deal such as a like-new set of plain mugs, I’ll pick them up, because I know I can use them for a great Cricut upcycle idea. 

When you decide to go thrifting, here is some inspiration to help you in your search for items to upcycle. You could also do these projects with brand new supplies, but giving new life to an old item (at a bargain price) is a lot of fun. Enjoy these awesome upcycled Cricut ideas!

1. DIY Bleach Spray T-Shirt from Practically Functional 

Bleach spray t-shirts are one of my favorite upcycling projects because it’s so easy! All you need is a plain solid-colored top, bleach, spray adhesive, and a vinyl stencil from your Cricut or Cameo. For my shirt project, I used a cute little owl stencil. 

Bleach spray shirts are an excellent option for groups and teams. If you need a fast way to make cute “uniforms” for a kickball game or camping trip, these are a unique, casual option. Each person can bring their own shirt in a specific color and choose a unique stencil or pick a different color shirt but use the same stencil to match. Kids love these shirts and they make great gifts.

Make Your Own Bleach Spray Shirt In Just 10 Minutes!

Have you seen people wearing those fun bleached t-shirts? They are super simple to make; you can make them in under 10 minutes and all you need is a shirt, bleach, water, a spray bottle, and a stencil!

See the full project

2. Dinosaur Fabric Scrap Matching Game from Swoodson Says

How cute is this dinosaur fabric scrap matching game made with an old pair of jeans and Cricut vinyl cutouts? I love dinosaurs, but you could use all sorts of designs for this project. This is a fun spin on the good old fashioned “memory” game and it’s great for kids. 

I really love that this project doesn’t require advanced seamstress skills. Sometimes it’s nice to have a DIY fabric project where you can cut and go. Pinking sheers help prevent the edges from fraying, but you can run a machine around the edge of each “card” to keep them looking uniform. 

Dinosaur Fabric Scrap Matching Game from Swoodson Says

How cute is this dinosaur fabric scrap matching game made with an old pair of jeans and Cricut vinyl cutouts?

See the full project

3. Make Your Own Minnie Mouse Mug by Practically Functional

Let’s talk about upcycling mugs and ceramic items using cutout stencils. I made this custom oversized Minnie Mouse mug using Contact paper stencils (that I made on my Cameo) and ceramic paint. I’ve seen many different takes on upcycled ceramic goods and they always turn out so cool. These items are perfect gifts as well.

Check out these monogrammed plates from Maritza Lisa. Using any pretty dishes and vinyl cutouts (in this case, she used metallic temporary tattoo paper with a Cameo), you can create a modern spin that looks like it came from a designer store. These decorative plates on Creative Bug are another great example. While the dishes aren’t always food-safe, they make great decorations, pretty catchalls, and helpful desk accessories.

Make Your Own Minnie Mouse Mug!

Make a super cute Minnie Mouse mug with enamel paint and a few stencils! Such a great way to add some Disney spirit to your morning coffee!

See the full project

4. Cricut Vinyl Milk Can Project from Typically Simple

The milk can for this project wasn’t purchased at a thrift store, but rather on sale at a craft store. I chose this example, though, because I think it’s an excellent idea for a Cricut upcycle project with an item you could easily find second-hand. 

This project reminds me of my personalized watering can, which is a similar concept. Using vinyl cutouts, you can upcycle metal items like cans and buckets for a unique farmhouse look. If you’re looking for the items at a thrift store, watch for plain pieces with relatively smooth surfaces. I also suggest using outdoor vinyl if you plan to use your project as a flower holder, porch decoration, or in any other spot where it might get wet.

Cricut Vinyl Milk Can Project from Typically Simple

Using vinyl cutouts, you can upcycle metal items like cans and buckets for a unique farmhouse look.

See the full project

5. DIY Vanity Tray and Ring Dish from by Pink

I love how girly and glittery these cute vanity trays are. They would make the perfect gift for a teen girl (or anyone who loves a little sparkle in their life). Small melamine dishes and trays are often an easy-to-find item when thrift shopping. Using vinyl cutouts and pour-in epoxy is a fantastic Cricut upcycle idea. 

If you’ve ever worked with pour-in epoxy resin, you know it is tons of fun. You can use resin to capture all sorts of little things—from beads to glitter and give it an “under glass” finish. Epoxy is ideal for use with jewelry projects and other upcycle endeavors.

DIY Vanity Tray and Ring Dish from by Pink

Small melamine dishes and trays are often an easy-to-find item when thrift shopping. Using vinyl cutouts and pour-in epoxy is a fantastic Cricut upcycle idea.

See the full project

6. DIY Etched Glass from Practically Functional

Another item at the top of my “thrift list” is glassware. Look for jars, pint glasses, plates, and vases. With stencils and glass etching cream, you can create some utterly unique custom gifts and home décor. Etched glass is stunning. Once etched, the glass is food-safe and ready to use. 

Etching cream is inexpensive, and once you try etching, I guarantee you’ll be hooked. You can make monogrammed champagne flutes for wedding gifts. Create custom pint glasses for Father’s Day. Use glass etching on mirrors; create beautiful vases; label upcycled bottles, jars, and containers for storage. The options are limitless.

How To Etch Glass At Home

Etching glassware makes a great personalized gift for weddings, birthdays, holidays, or any occasion, and it's surprisingly easy to do! All you need for this fun customizing project is etching cream, a paintbrush, a stencil, and about 15 minutes.

See the full project

7. Quote for Your Bathroom Scale from a girl and a glue gun  

I chose this inspirational bathroom scale quote as a great example of how some glittery vinyl can add tons of impact to everyday items. For this project, she used a Silhouette Cameo and glitter vinyl (you could also use a Cricut). 

If you check out Etsy, you’ll find an array of vinyl decals for coffee makers, hilarious Instant Pot decals, and decals for KitchenAid Mixers. Most of these were created by using a Cricut or Silhouette and vinyl. So if you have a cutting machine, you can personalize and upcycle almost ANY item. Look for gently used small appliances and let your imagination run wild. Again, I would use outdoor vinyl to protect your project in applications where it might get wet.

Quote for Your Bathroom Scale from a girl and a glue gun

When thrifting, look for gently used small appliances and let your imagination run wild!

See the full project

8. Thrift Store Picture Farmhouse Makeover from Christina Faye Repurposed

Some of the best items to pick up at the thrift store are picture frames. You can often find tons of framed art for $5 or less. When looking at the framed artwork, you might be wondering, “why on earth would I ever buy this?” There is some bizarre thrift store art out there, but when you explore the art section, it’s all about the frames.

Look at this fantastic upcycled farmhouse picture! She used Cricut vinyl to create a cute quote and cow to frame against a fabric backdrop. For less than $5, she made a great wall hanging that would easily cost upwards of $20 at the store. When you go to the thrift store, look beyond that bad art and find the potential. Here’s a further tutorial on eHow for modern twists on upcycled thrift store artwork. 

Thrift Store Picture Farmhouse Makeover from Christina Faye Repurposed

Look at this fantastic upcycled farmhouse picture! She used Cricut vinyl to create a cute quote and cow to frame against a fabric backdrop for less than $5.

See the full project

9. DIY Table Runner with Foil Iron-On from That’s What Che Said

Foil iron-on is one of my favorite Cricut upcycle materials. I used it for my St. Patrick’s Day shirt, and it elevates plain fabric. For this DIY table runner, she also used foil iron-on to create a beautiful design that would look great on any holiday table.

Thrifting and upcycling holiday items are a great idea. After all, you don’t want to spend tons on holiday décor that you’ll only use for a month or two out of the year (or in this case for Thanksgiving dinner). Table linens are an especially lovely option because holiday table decorations are often pricey. Look for plain tablecloths, napkins, and table runners that you can jazz up with Cricut.

DIY Table Runner with Foil Iron-On from That’s What Che Said

Thrifting and upcycling holiday items are a great idea. Look for plain tablecloths, napkins, and table runners that you can jazz up with a Cricut.

See the full project

10. Cricut Tee with Infusible Ink from Thrift Diving

Let’s explore the more advanced Cricut upcycle ideas for clothing. Heat transfer and infusible ink are truly stunning options that help you create shirts that look completely professional. If you have the Cricut Explore Air 2 and a Cricut Easy Press, you can make some fantastic items. See a detailed, step-by-step process in my infusible ink tutorial, where I show you how to make an adorable kids mermaid tee!

How To Use Infusible Ink Transfer Sheets

This article has everything you need to know about using Cricut Infusible Ink transfer sheets!

See the full project

Even if you aren’t ready to invest in the infusible inks, there are many options for heat transfer projects too. Adding lettering to a shirt (like this cute Beatles song shirt) is easy with Cricut iron-on vinyl and the Easy Press (or an iron). I made this iron-on transfer bag with a Cameo and Silhouette heat transfer material. I really love how well heat transfers work on fabric. You can make baby onesies, shirts, bags, and throw pillows. 

Cricut Tee with Infusible Ink from Thrift Diving

Heat transfer and infusible ink are truly stunning options that help you create shirts that look completely professional.

See the full project

The next time you go to the thrift store (or consider tossing out an item that’s lost its luster), consider upcycled Cricut ideas. Could you customize the item to add new life? Would lettering or vinyl designs make the piece special and unique? Get creative and play with your die cut machine!

The post 10 Upcycled Cricut Ideas that Will Blow Your Mind was written by Jessi Wohlwend and appeared first on Practically Functional.

My minor obsession with birds began when I made a hanging bird feeder from a teacup. I’ve always enjoyed watching the birds outside, and once I started putting out food, they began to flock (even braving our energetic puppy to get to the delicious birdseed in our yard). From one bird feeder, I branched out to several, and then I started seeking out other ways to help our winged pals.

The best part of building a bird-friendly yard is that it requires little effort and offers a big payoff! With a few fun DIY endeavors (and some bird-friendly plants), you’ll be surprised at how many feathered friends start visiting. So if you’re ready to bring birds to your yard, try some of these simple methods to attract birds to your garden today.

1. Plant Bird-Friendly Plants

Plants that attract birds often have the added benefit of being beautiful. Like humans, birds are drawn to bright, fragrant flowers, herbs, and blossoming trees. Even if you don’t have space (or a green thumb) for a full formal English garden, you can add a few easy-to-grow bird-friendly plants to any space.

Get started with some of these bird-friendly plants for beginners.

Sunflowers

Sunflowers are simple, showy, and easy-to-grow. You can look for giant sunflowers that kids will love or you can opt for simple, shorter-in-stature varieties. You can start sunflowers indoors, although they often work best when you directly sow them right in the garden.

At the end of the growing season, harvest sunflower seeds by cutting off the heads of the sunflowers, and allowing them to dry in a protected area for several weeks. Then brush over the heads to remove the seeds and allow them to further cure for a few days. Of course, if you’re growing the sunflowers to attract birds, you’ll want to leave plenty of seeds for them to harvest as well.

Bee Balm

Bee balm is a fragrant herb also known as Wild Bergamot. I love the look and scent of bee balm. The bright pink, purple, and red flowers are eye-catching, and the plant is extremely low maintenance. It’s great for bouquets, and you can even harvest bee balm and dry it to make tea.

Bee balm also made my list of plants that repel mosquitos. It’s deer-resistant and attractive to all pollinators like bees and butterflies, as well as birds. Hummingbirds especially love bee balm, making this plant a must-have for any bird-friendly garden.

Coneflower

Coneflowers are also known as echinacea. These classic wildflowers are a great, prolific plant to attract birds to your garden. The blossoms are ideal for cutting too, and this plant blooms all season long. Trim it down, and it comes right back.

Coneflower can spread quite a bit in some gardens, so be sure you have ample space for growing. It’s important to note that if you start coneflowers from seed, they may not bloom the first year. This is a hearty, deer and drought-resistant plant once established, and you’ll have plenty of pretty purple and pink flowers for years to come.

Aster

Asters are a late summer and early fall bloomer. These purple flowers are a pretty, bird-friendly addition to any backyard garden. The plants grow tall—up to four feet and make a lovely backdrop against a fence or wall.

These ornamental wildflowers are another perennial, so once the asters establish, you’ll have beautiful flowers to cut and bring indoors too. You can grow asters from seed (and use them in seed bombs), but they also do well when purchased as seedlings.

Elderberry

Elderberry has become quite popular over the last few years due to its reputation as an immune-boosting supplement (elderberries are used for winemaking too). The deep purple berries are a favorite plant to attract birds to your garden.

Elderberry is easiest to grow from cuttings or starts, similar to raspberry and blueberry bushes. The plant is shrub-like with pretty clusters of white flowers that resemble hydrangeas, giving way to tiny bunches of berries. Native to many parts of the United States, this is an easy-to-grow, bird-friendly fruit.

Herbs

Is your garden big on personality, but small on space? Herbs are a great bird-friendly option, even if you’re simply hoping to attract feathered friends to your porch. If you’re new to growing herbs, you can see my series on indoor herb gardening. Obviously, to attract birds, you’ll need to move your herbs to the porch, patio, or yard.

For the most bird-friendly herb options, look for flowering herbs like hyssop, lavender, lemon balm, and sage. Interestingly, many of the bird-friendly herbs for your garden are safe for pet birds as well. You can also use them in cooking, dry them for tea (see how to dry chamomile here), and in fragrance applications as well. Herbs are very versatile!

Native Plants

The best plants to attract regional birds to your backyard are native plants. Since the birds you’re drawing in are native to the area, logic follows that they will prefer the plants that grow naturally in your neck of the woods.

Native flora already follows the rhythm of your seasons and thrives in your yard environment. They’re naturally low maintenance because plants that are local to your area usually withstand local pests, fungi, and other hazards as well. Ask your garden center for recommendations to find plants that thrive in your hometown.

2. Feed Birds in Your Backyard

Once you’ve put in some bird-friendly plants, it’s time to feed the birds some seed! Creating a simple bird feeder is, hands down, the easiest way to attract birds to your yard. How do you get a bird feeder? There is a myriad of bird feeder options for sale.

If you don’t want to go the store-bought route, you can make the simplest kid-friendly bird feeder out of a toilet paper roll, peanut butter, and some seed. TP bird feeders are a fun rainy-day project that your kids can whip right up.

If you’d prefer to go a step-up from the TP roll feeders, I recommend my teacup bird feeder that I mentioned before. The cup-and-saucer bird feeder was the one that got me hooked on attracting birds to my backyard. It was so easy to create. I love the look of these teacups hanging from the trees—like a scene from Alice in Wonderland.

Once you’ve found a bird feeder you like, you’ll need to pick up birdseed to fill the feeder. Most lawn and garden stores sell birdseed that’s especially attractive to your local fauna. You can find songbird mixes, colorful bird blends, and seeds that are specially formulated for different bird species.

I recommend picking up a backyard birdwatching book as well. As you start to see the different types of birds come into your yard, it’s nice to have a reference guide. Look for a book geared toward your locale. There are many kid-friendly bird watching books out there too. You may also want to check with your local Audubon Society Chapter for more reference materials to help you identify and support local birds and wildlife.

3. Add a Birdbath

Backyard birds rely on birdbaths for drinking water and for cleaning themselves. Adding a birdbath to your yard can bring in a wider variety of birds than food alone, making birdbaths fun additions to your bird-friendly yard.

Now, if you’ve ever shopped for a birdbath, you probably realize there is a vast array of options out there. So, how do you choose the best birdbath? If your primary goal is to attract birds to your yard, select a birdbath that’s easy to clean. Decorative baths with a lot of nooks and crannies can be beautiful, but they can also get very slimy and are hard to keep sanitary. You will need to change the water in your birdbath frequently to avoid getting mosquitos.

Birdbaths come in a variety of materials like metal, ceramic, glass, plastic, and concrete. They also come in a wide range of price levels. Again, choose something you like and can afford, that’s also easy to clean. Copper and glazed baths are easier to scrub with a brush or sponge regularly. Keep your birdbath out in the open where it’s safe from stalking predators (like the neighbor’s cat). Birds often like baths that are closer to the ground, but slightly elevated options are safer.

Is a birdbath worth it? Little birds love their birdbaths! Look for a bath that’s thin enough so they can perch on the edge and drink. Keep the water levels low; an inch or two is plenty. Provide a few stones or rocks so they can perch in the bath. Often, they’ll swim in the bath and use it to clean themselves daily—it’s fascinating to watch.

4. Offer Nesting Materials

Now that you’ve offered your neighborhood birds a bath, food, and bird-friendly plants, you’ll also want to provide them with materials to make a cozy nest. One of the best ways to do this, I’ve found, is to create a nesting box.

I created a simple DIY nesting box out of some fantastic wooden cigar boxes my husband picked up, chicken wire, and scraps of fabric. It’s essential to use natural nesting material like cotton rather than acrylics. Clean pet fur is a good option too. Avoid dryer lint, though, which can become clumpy.

You could include small scraps of wood, moss, cotton trim, yarn, and leaves in your nesting box as well. The birds will love these materials. Building a nesting materials box is a fun project to do with kids, and you can watch for bits and pieces of your fabric “gifts” to appear in nests around the yard and neighborhood.

Hang your box with twine from a tree or nail it up to a fence post. Don’t worry too much if the materials get a little damp or weathered; birds will still love to use the bits of scraps, especially in the spring when they make their nests.

5. Provide Simple Bird Houses

Are you ready to help the birds set up permanent residence in your home? Making a simple DIY birdhouse is such a fun activity. When I made one for my mom, it became a family project! I started with a basic house from the craft store and cut it in half. Then I embellished my two houses with a shingle roof and bright paint.

If you’re hoping to add some brightness to your yard, a few bright birdhouses will look extra cheery next to your colorful plants. Start with one or two and branch out as you have more visitors. You can hang birdhouses on trees, porch posts, or your fence—anywhere near your birdfeeder and away from predators. You may want to set a house near a window so you can watch your winged friends as they move in and start to nest.

Do birdhouses really work? It will amaze you how much birds love their little houses. It might not happen right away, but be patient, because you will likely get some resident birds in your yard. Once birds set up shop in a house, they’ll often return year after year.

Keep in mind, not every bird loves birdhouses. As you explore your yard, you may find nests in trees and other areas as well. If you notice a bird’s nest, be careful not to disturb it. Not only can human interference hurt the birds, but in the United States, it’s illegal to relocate active nests of native bird species! So, if you discover a nest somewhere less-than-ideal, contact your local wildlife control authority. When in doubt, always leave bird nest relocation to a professional.

Backyard birding is a fun and rewarding hobby. Follow these steps to attract birds to your garden, then grab your coffee, sit back, and enjoy watching your feathered friends play in the sunshine. Birds are an essential part of our ecosystem and an excellent addition to your backyard.

The post 5 Ways to Attract Birds to Your Garden with a Bird-Friendly Backyard was written by Jessi Wohlwend and appeared first on Practically Functional.