YOUR LIFE STYLE AND HEALTH

12 Foods to fight cancer

2017-07-31T02:52:00.001-07:00

One of the easiest things for a person touched by cancer to address is their diet. Our view is that a Rainbow Diet is the most helpful diet in fighting cancer. And here are 12 foods from it that can each play a role in fighting one or more steps in the multi-step cancer process (writes Chris Woollams).
Remember that ´good nourishment´ is a crucial weapon in the fight against cancer and any illness. Good cancer nutrition can be vital in increasing your personal odds of survival. A 2012 report by the American Cancer Society, covered in Cancer Watch our research centre, stated that there was ´overwhelming evidence´ that diet and exercise could increase survival and even prevent a cancer returning. CANCERactive has consistently maintained this stance since our launch in 2004.
Remember too that bioactive natural compounds are likely to do you a lot more good than synthetic pills! Many such compounds have strong and proven epigenetic benefits.
So here are a few additions to your cancer diet, as a part of your own Integrated Cancer Treatment Programme.

1: Oily Fish
Fish oil will provide long chain omega-3, a powerful anti-inflammatory in the body that minimizes COX-2 and its abilities to drive localised negative hormones called eicosanoids which cause inflammation - driving cancer and metastases. Omega-3 has been shown to re-lengthen telomeres, which shorten when you have cancer putting the DNA structure at risk and reducing longevity. Fish oils also contain vitamin A, an important vitamin in the fight against cancer (herring, mackerel and salmon are top of the list). Fish oils have been linked to reduced levels of prostate, breast and colon cancer. Research shows they help prevent cachexia when having chemotherapy. You´ll also get a little vitamin D from them, another proven cancer-fighter. Omega 3 from fish is an important ingredient in your cancer diet. Please note that the omega 3 from flaxseed is short-chain, equally important but has different benefits (for example, it helps oxygenate the tissues and provides essential fibre).

2: Carotenoids - Carrots, peppers and greens
Along with apricots, red and yellow peppers, greens like kale and spinach and sweet potatoes, carrots provide anti-cancer carotenoids like beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A, as and when required by the body. 1 cup of carrot juice, 2 sweet potatoes, 16 dried apricots and 4 cups of red cherries will each provide 25 mgs. Don´t eat them all at once - people have been known to turn a little orange! A great juice to make yourself involves greens, sweetened by carrots and apples (for quercitin) and beetroot (for anthocyanins) with a helping of calming raw ginger. A real cancer fighting drink! Carotenoids are also found in natural food sources such as chlorella. Raw carrots are also high in pectins - your helpful gut bacteria will love you for eating pectins and give you more in return. A red pepper is the top source of vitamin C in the UK - even better than oranges.

3: GingerFresh, raw ginger has a number of very important benefits in cancer. It is a terrific anti-inflammatory agent in the body and reduces the effects of COX-2. This produces benefits throughout the body and especially in the gut, reducing rates of cancer spread. It also lowers blood sugar levels, and gingerols have been shown to have effects against prostate, breast, leukaemia and other cancer cells. Grate 5 gms or more of ginger each day into your juices. It is also full of helpful vitamins and minerals and is anti-parasitic.

4: Seeds
Seeds are full of good oils, whole vitamins in a natural form (like vitamin E) and fibre to strengthen your gut flora. People who consume the highest levels of natural fibre have higher immune systems. For example:
Sunflower SeedsHigh in zinc and natural vitamin E. Zinc helps vitamin C do its work and accelerates healing time. It is important to a healthy prostate. You need 15 to 25 mgs per day. Five tablespoons of sunflower seeds give you 10 mgs. Sunflower seeds will also provide a little selenium.
Pumpkin SeedsCan be mixed with the sunflower seeds in your morning muesli. 5 tablespoons will each provide 20 mgs of vitamin E, the ultimate cancer buster, which inhibits cancer cell growth and protects immune cells from free radicals. Vitamin E boosts your immune system´s fighting abilities. The target is 300-600 mgs and is difficult to achieve without supplements.
Sesame Seeds
The unique lignans can reduce blood pressure and lipid levels. Research shows they can fight inflammation and also cancer! Gamma tocopherol vitamin E reduces inflammation around the body. Both sesame and flax lignans are converted to compounds that can arrest oestrogen cancers.

5: Nuts
Six cracked brazil nuts will give you your daily selenium; 100 to 200 mcgs is the goal. Selenium is a very potent anti-cancer agent. Eight slices of wholemeal bread, an organic egg, or a large chicken breast will also be enough.

(Tuna, onions, broccoli and tomatoes contain selenium too.)
Walnuts and almonds are a helpful additions to your diet because they contain good oils and high natural fibre. People who eat nuts every day live longer according to research in Cancer Watch.

6: Mushrooms There´s an enormous body of research evidence now that shows how ´medicinal´ mushrooms (Shiitake, Maiitake, cordyceps etc) boost the immune system and fight cancer. Even the button mushroom has cancer fighting ingredients.

7: Tomatoes
Seven to ten helpings per week, especially cooked.

According to Harvard research 7-10 helpings a week cuts prostate symptoms by 40% and has an influence on many cancers e.g.: lung; colon; cervix; breast. Lycopene is the prime active ingredient, and 25 - 40 mgs the desired daily dose.
It is also found in strawberries, peppers, carrots and peaches, but one tin of tomato soup has 65 mgs alone. Lycopene helps reduce ´bad´ fat levels in the blood stream and is a strong antioxidant.

8: Green leafy vegetables
Along with avocado, beans, carrots, apricots, pumpkins, and egg yolk green vegetables will give you folic acid if your gut bacteria are strong.

This will help your DNA to replicate properly and protect it during radiotherapy.
400 micrograms is a recommended amount. Folate, biotin, choline and inositol, niacin and vitamin B12 are all B vitamins that help in the cancer fight. Niacin has been shown to kill cancer cells. Egg yolk, greens and whole grains are the best sources.
It doesn´t just stop there. Green vegetables and sprouting seeds are a source of sulforaphanes which have strong epigenetic (cancer correcting) benefits and have been shown to aid survival from colorectal cancer.
A diet rich in greens will help alkalyse your body. A slightly alkaline body is important as it improves the performance of your immune system and research shows it stops new metastases.

9: Broccoli

Like other green cruciferous vegetables (e.g. cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts), broccoli contains fibre which helps eliminate toxins

Moreover, the fibre is rich in galactose, which binds to damaging agents in the intestine, and is one of the favourite foods of good, helpful gut bacteria (as are carrots, apples, chicory and onions).
Broccoli also contains indoles, and especially indole3carbinol which, along with its metabolite DIM, modifies and diminishes aggressive oestrogen action, can modify cellular oestrogen receptor sites, and aids in fighting oestrogen-driven cancers like some breast, prostate, brain and colorectal cancers.

10: Garlic It is a truly wonderful food. Active ingredients like allicin seem to act to stop the spread of cancer in a number of ways, for example by stopping blood supply formation for tumours.

Garlic also kills microbes and yeasts - after taking drugs and antibiotics the body is often susceptible to these. Garlic is also anti-inflamatory in the body. It has a number of active ingredients. It contains selenium, tryptophan and sulphur-based active agents that attack cancer cells.
Two or three raw cloves of garlic raw per day will ward off more than vampires.

11: Beetroot

And cherries, aubergines, plums, red grapes - indeed any purple coloured fruits and vegeatables. They contain anthocyanins (and sometimes also resveratrol). Anthocyanins have been shown to kill cancer cells; Resveratrrol has research supporting its role in fighting certain cancers like blood and brain cancers too.

12: Pulses
Lentils, chickpeas, beans, peas, kidney beans and even soya beans are a great source of plant protein. Most importantly they release their carbohydrate slowly because of their high fibre content. They reduce blood glucose.

Pulses also contain isoflavones called phytoestrogens. People get confused about plant oestrogen. The cells of your body have oestrogen receptor sites. When one form of human oestrogen (oestradiol) binds to them, the result is havoc inside your cells. About 40 times less potent is human oestrogen oestrone and about 40 to 50 times less potent still are plant oestrogens. Now which would you rather have sitting on your receptors? Pulses also provide fibre like lignans that can help neutralise free-radicals in the gut and blood stream.
Phytoestrogens bind more weakly than human oestrogen and wash through the body - so you need to eat them daily.

Secrets to a Long Life

2014-01-11T23:06:00.003-08:00

Scientific studies have uncovered the secrets of living longer -- and a good sex life, eating chocolate and positive thinking are all in there.

In fact, those who indulge in life's little pleasures are shown to outlive miserable abstainers in any number of studies.

But living as long as possible is, according to one piece of research, also dependent on making healthy choices and by adopting just four healthy behaviors -- regular exercise, not smoking, avoiding alcohol abuse and eating five portions of fruit and vegetables a day -- you could add 14 years on to your life.

Research has also shown that a healthy weight, religion and staying out of debt are all other all ways of ensuring you have a long, happy life.

Here we have put together a list of 10 steps you can take to prolong your life, although women be warned ... while marriage can add as much as 10 years to a man's life, the stress of living with a man has been shown to take years off a woman's life.

Have a Good Sex Life

2.5 years

There is plenty of evidence to suggest that lots of sex is good for you. Research from Bristol University proved that men who have frequent orgasms live longer, while a University of California study reckoned a great sex life could add up to two years on your life. Men who have sex less than once a month had twice the risk of an early death than those who had sex twice or more a week.

A New Solution That Stops Snoring and Lets You Sleep

2014-01-11T23:04:00.000-08:00

If you’re like most Americans you probably don’t get eight hours sleep each night.

But, if you also constantly feel exhausted, experience headaches for no obvious reason or have high blood pressure, you could have a more serious problem.

That’s because these can all be the result of snoring—which is, in turn, the most common symptom of a potentially serious health problem—obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

While most people think of snoring as a minor annoyance, research shows it can be hazardous to your health. That’s because for over 18 million Americans it’s related to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). People who suffer from OSA repeatedly and unknowingly stop breathing during the night due to a complete or partial obstruction of their airway. It occurs when the jaw, throat, and tongue muscles relax, blocking the airway used to breathe. The resulting lack of oxygen can last for a minute or longer, and occur hundreds of times each night.

Thankfully, most people wake when a complete or partial obstruction occurs, but it can leave you feeling completely exhausted. OSA has also been linked to a host of health problems including:

1.Acid reflux

2.Frequent nighttime urination

3.Memory loss

4.Stroke

5.Depression

6.Diabetes

7.Heart attack

People over 35 are at higher risk.

OSA can be expensive to diagnosis and treat, and is not always covered by insurance. A sleep clinic will require an overnight visit (up to $5,000). Doctors then analyze the data and prescribe one of several treatments. These may require you to wear uncomfortable CPAP devices that force air through your nose and mouth while you sleep to keep your airways open, and may even include painful surgery.

Fortunately, there is now a comfortable, far less costly and invasive treatment option available. A recent case study published by Eastern Virginia Medical School's Division of Sleep Medicine in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine concludes that wearing a simple chinstrap while you sleep can be an effective treatment for OSA.

The chin strap, which is now available from a company called MySnoringSolution, works by supporting the lower jaw and tongue, preventing obstruction of the airway. It’s made from a high-tech, lightweight, and super-comfortable material. Thousands of people have used the MySnoringSolution chinstrap to help relieve their snoring symptoms, and they report better sleeping, and better health overall because of it.

An effective snoring solution for just $119

The “My Snoring Solution” Chinstrap is available exclusively from the company’s website which is currently offering a limited time “2 for 1” offer. The product also comes with a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.

If you want to stop snoring once and for all, without expensive CPAP devices or other intrusive devices, this may be the solution you’ve been waiting for. The free additional strap is great for travel or as a gift for a fellow sufferer.

Best of all, this product comes with an unconditional 90-day, money-back guarantee!

How to Get Shiny Hair

2014-01-11T23:01:00.000-08:00

QUESTION: My hair seems so dull. How can I make it look healthier?

ANSWER: First, determine why your hair looks less than lush: Perhaps you colored it but haven't been using color-protective products. Or maybe you have product buildup -- the result of applying too many styling aids and not removing with the right shampoo. Or it might be the result of daily damage from overstyling. Once you have identified a culprit (or two), use the advice below in your routine regularly, advises Paul Labrecque, creative director of Paul Labrecque Salon and Spas in New York City.

Heat-style wisely. "Heat flattens your hair's cuticle (theouter layer of the hair shaft), allowing light to reflect off it andcreate a glossy finish," Labrecque explains. But when used improperly(for example, heat-styling without a protective product), hotappliances can burn the hair strand. Labrecque's advice: Spritz hairfirst with a product that coats the hair. We like Tresemm Instant HeatTamer Styling Spray ($4; at drugstores).

Avoid overprocessing your hair. Add color orhighlights as needed, but not more than once every four months. Then,post-processing, try products specifically designed for color-treatedhair; these are gentler and less likely to strip your strands of theirnatural shine-inducing oils. Editor's pick: color-specific shampoos andconditioners from John Frieda ($6.50 each; at drugstores), available inSheer Blonde, Brilliant Brunette and Radiant Red.

Read the ingredient label. "Some styling aids containalcohol, which can dehydrate hair and make it look dull," Labrecquesays. Instead opt for creamy, water-based products. Try Paul MitchellExpress Style Quick Slip ($13; paulmitchell.com)or Dove Straight & Soft Sleek Styling Cream ($4.29; at drugstores);both tame the frizzies while keeping hair vibrant and healthy.

Pro tip: Use clarifying shampoo twice a month to rid dulling product residue.

Source: Shape. Powered by Yellowbrix.

How to Flirt ... and Why Men and Women Do It

2014-01-11T22:54:00.002-08:00

Flirting is such an integral part of the dating scene that we pretty much take it for granted. But what happens when we dig a little deeper and start asking questions about this bizarre behavior. What is flirting? Why do men flirt? Why do women flirt? How do you go about flirting? A new survey aims to shed light on the issue.

Results from a flirting test on Queendom.com reveal that men and women not only enjoy flirting, but many do it in order to get what they want. Their data showed that while women did have a slightly higher tendency to flirt, it was men who fared slightly better in terms of flirting expertise and techniques.

"Men aren't as cavemen-ish when they flirt as some women may think," according to Vrat Jerabek, president of the company. "For instance, 11 percent of men who took our test would easily and shamelessly flirt with a female officer to get out of a ticket, compared to 8 percent of women. Men also used their flirting skills to get a deal on a car (20 percent), and a surprising 6 percent of them would actually date her in order to get a deal later on."

Among women, 27 percent did admit they would do that 'shyly picking off a lint on a guy's sweater' thing, but 21 percent also stated that they would flirt mercilessly with a bouncer to get into an exclusive club if they heard that their favorite celebrity would be there. And 6 percent of women admitted that they would go even further than that if they had to.

"We are certainly hot-wired to flirt by our genetics, and the best flirts have had the best chances of propagating. The body language used in flirting in various cultures has the same basic components intense eye contact, smile, hair toss and coy glances for the ladies, chest puffing in men... So there is certainly a genetic component," Jerabek said in a release about the survey. "Flirting is more than genes dictating our movements. It's also a skill based on social learning and learning by observing adult subject matter experts."

The study also revealed that men's most popular flirting gestures when chatting with a woman are to smile and to lean in to show interest, while women smile and look deep into a man's eyes. Other interesting tidbits:

45 percent of men would converse with someone they found hot at a funeral;

36 percent would ask that person out, while still at the funeral (55 percent and 19 percent respectively for women).

Only 10 percent of women would flirt with a male car salesman in order to get a better deal.

Apparently, both men and women love to flirt. It's fun and relatively harmless. But, does flirting with an ulterior motive cross the line?

How to Look Beautiful on a Budget

2014-01-11T22:46:00.003-08:00

Sure, we've got problems with the economy. But no one wants to look stressed-out about it.

Some ideas for keeping your skin, hair and nails in shape without breaking the bank:

Face Stuff

Skip the expensive creams. Janet Luhrs, author of the newsletter, "Simple Living" and the book, "The Simple Living Guide," used to buy moisturizing cream at the dermatologist's office, spending $108 for a 4-ounce jar. Now she uses 100 percent jojoba, apricot or avocado oil, that she gets for around $4 for the same size container.

Make your own acne treatment. Dina Falconi, an herbalist and author of "Earthly Bodies & Heavenly Hair," offers this recipe: Combine a quarter cup of water, a quarter cup of 80 proof liquor, and 20 drops each of sage, grapefruit and lavender essential oils. Apply to the problem area, she said.

Forget about toner. If you want that squeaky, clean feeling, that's fine, said Nadine Haobsh, beauty expert and author of "Beauty Confidential." But there's no need to incporate a toner into your routine, she said. She recommends simplifying things by using just a cleanser and an SPF 30 cream or serum. At night, use a cream or serum that has retinol and peptides, she said. Dab on pimple cream from the drug store when you feel a pimple coming. For more problem skin, go to the derm, she said.

Grab a lemon or cucumber. Take a make-up brush, dip it in lemon juice and use it to fade age spots and freckles, said Haobsh. If you are prone to oily skin, soak a cotton ball in lemon juice and rub it on the T-Zone. Slice a cucumber and put a slice over each eye to deflate puffy eyes, she said.

Make-Up

Hit the drug store. Luhrs purchases foundation, eyeshadow and mascara at the local drug store.

Cheap and better eye liner. Eyeliner at a fancy make-up counter can run you $13.00, said Luhrs. She lightly moistens her powder eye shadow with water and then uses a fine brush to line her eyes.

Don't match eyes to the outfits. Luhrs finds one or two colors that look great on her, and sticks with them.

Hygiene

Here's a secret. You can make your own deodorant using baking soda, said Falconi -- try dusting some under your arms. To get fancy, add one drop of essential oil to the powder before applying, said Falconi.

Use olive oil to moisturize. At night, apply olive oil to your hands and feet and then cover them with gloves and socks. You'll wake up to smooth hands and and feet, said Marie Scalogna-Watkinson, owner of Spa Chicks On-The-Go, a mobile spa service in New York City.

A little bit of Crisco never hurt. If you have super dry skin, use Crisco as a moisturizer, whether it's the hands, feet or face, said Haobsh. "It's not glamorous, but it works," she said. Too biscuit like? Try Vaseline, she said.

Do your own waxes. Drug stores boast an array of home waxing kits for the face and body, said Haobsh.

Use baking soda as toothpaste. Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to the consistency of toothpaste and use it daily to brush teeth, said NYC cosmetic dentists Drs. Marc Lowenberg and Gregg Lituchy in an email. This cleans surface stains, kills bacteria and makes teeth appear whiter.

Try some petroleum jelly. Another tip from the dentists: If you know you're going to be drinking red wine or coffee, protect teeth from stains by coating them with the jelly, such as Vasline. The coating acts as a barrier to prevent staining and also helps to keep lipstick off of teeth, they said. (Dr. Matthew Messina, spokesperson for the American Dental Association, said he can't see any harm in the practice.)

Eat your veggies. Chewing raw crunchy vegetables, such as celery and carrots, helps to remove surface stains, said Lowenberg and Lituchy. Make your own shampoo. Falconi's recipe: Six to eight ounces of an herbal tea, 3 ounces of liquid castile soap, which can be purchased at a health food store, a quarter of a teaspoon of vegetable oil and up to 60 drops of an essential oil.

Grab some condiments. If you have dry hair, put mayonnaise and olive oil on your hair while it's dry and wrap it in a warm towel or in plastic rap for 20 minutes before rinsing, said Haobsh. Or rinse your hair with beer in the shower to seal in shine, she said. And if you are out of cream hair moisturizer, use your body moisturizer, she said. Rub it into your hands and run your hands through your hair.

DIY hair color. Modern hair color kits are pretty much fool-proof, said Haobsh. You can even do highlights yourself. Ask your regular hair stylist if he or she can recommend a kit to tide you between professional treatments, said stylist Peter Ishkhans, host of "Peter Perfect," which debuts a new season in January 2009 on The Style Network.

Cut your own bangs. Make sure your hair is dry, said Ishkhans. Cut the bangs flat on your face (don't hold the bangs up and cut) and don't go shorter than your eye brows, he said.

Use less. Only people with finer textured hair need to shampoo daily because their hair tends to get oilier, said Ishkhans. People with fine hair that has no body generally don't need a conditioner, he said. He suggests adding some water to shampoo and conditioner to make it last longer.

Skip salon and beauty store products. The products generally contain the same ingredients as products in a super market or drug store, said Ishkhans. Check the labels and compare.

Relaxation

Make your own spa. Turn the bathroom into a spa, said Scalogna-Watkinson. Carve out some "me" time, put a Do Not Disturb sign on the door, light a candle, add some esssential oils to the water and soak. If you want it more spa-like, purchase a remote control massaging bath mat, she said. NailsDo your own manis and pedis. It's not about the color, said Haobsh. "If you keep the cuticles moisturized and keep your nails to a uniform shape, it'll look nice, like you had a manicure done." Use olive oil on the cuticles and gently push them back. File the nails to the same shape and length. Do this regularly, she said.

Make your own spa. Turn the bathroom into a spa, said Scalogna-Watkinson. Carve out some "me" time, put a Do Not Disturb sign on the door, light a candle, add some esssential oils to the water and soak. If you want it more spa-like, purchase a remote control massaging bath mat, she said.

Nails

Do your own manis and pedis. It's not about the color, said Haobsh. "If you keep the cuticles moisturized and keep your nails to a uniform shape, it'll look nice, like you had a manicure done." Use olive oil on the cuticles and gently push them back. File the nails to the same shape and length. Do this regularly, she said

A STANDARD STUDIO YOU CAN THINK OF.

2012-06-13T14:18:00.002-07:00

The Standard studio..............

How To Maintain Good Health

2012-06-13T13:52:00.001-07:00

Vitality and energy are by products of good health and are needed to achieve career success, excellent relationships, and many other goals.

There are no guarantees, but here are some ideas for increasing your odds of having a long and healthy life.
1. Drink plenty of water.
Much of our body and brain are made up of water. You need water to stay hydrated, to flush out toxins, to assimilate nutrients from food, and for your brain to function properly. Drinking plenty of water also keeps your skin from becoming dry and prematurely wrinkled from dehydration.
2. You need a little sunshine.
It is true that you can get too much sun but we need some sunshine. Ten to twenty minutes of daily early morning or late evening sun is beneficial.
Sunshine gives you vitamin D which you need so your bones can absorb calcium. Without enough vitamin D our bones can become brittle and break. It is unnatural to spend all of our time indoors. We need fresh air and a little sunshine to maintain excellent health.
3. Exercise is important.
Our bodies need movement and physical activity. Proper exercise slows down our physical deterioration.
We need three types of exercise: Flexibility, aerobic, and strength training.
4. Eat well.
Fresh fruits and vegetables are among the most important foods you can eat. The greater the variety of colors, the better because they contain different types of antioxidants. Antioxidants strengthen your immune system and slow the aging process. Fresh produce is best, frozen is second best, and the least nutritious are canned fruits and vegetables.
5. Go for plenty of Walks.
A lot of people will say walk for 30 minute per day, I disagree. Walking should not just be for losing weight, it should also be for your own peace of mind. Walking is a non strenuous exercise that improves your heartrate, your respiration, and your mood. Enjoy the walk and take it slowly and you will want to take many more walks.
6. Isometrics.
You do not need to go to the gym to get a workout. Sitting there at your desk you could be doing Bicep Curls right now. Instead of using a weight, simply make a fist and tighten up the bicep. Now, as you bring your fist up to your shoulder, make it as hard as you can on yourself. Literally use your own strength to fight the movement. This will enhance tone, strength, and never risk a muscle. You can do this with any exercise, including something as simple as washing the car.
The two most common diets around are the Low Fat diet and the Low Carb diet. These plans have been popular for many years because of the initial weight loss, but people have trouble keeping the weight off later on.

2011-09-25T12:49:00.001-07:00

Maintaining Color Treated Hair: Products & Tips If you’ve recently had a hair color treatment of any kind, you probably want the color to last as long as possible, while also keeping the health of your hair in tip-top shape. Unfortunately, the processes of dying, bleaching, highlighting, lowlighting, removing color and getting a chemical treatment is stressful on hair, and removes a lot of the natural moisture your hair needs to continue being strong and healthy. So to properly take care of your hair and help the color last longer, you might need to discontinue use of your current shampoos, conditioners and hair styling products, and purchase some that are specifically designed for color or chemical treated hair. In addition to this, here are some other tips that you should keep in mind: Tips For Lasting Color Read more: Maintaining Color Treated Hair: Shampoos, Conditioners, Sprays & Tips

Eco-Friendly Kitchen Ideas

2009-12-02T12:29:00.001-08:00

A great way for environmental conscious people to make a difference in their kitchen is using eco-friendly products. The following lines will provide information on eco-friendly kitchen ideas.Whenever you design or remodel your kitchen, you can use a number of environmental friendly materials that can enhance the look of your kitchen. These eco-friendly materials are not only cost effective but also gel with the ambiance of the kitchen. You can use different materials such as recycled glass, bamboo, etc.

Flooring Options

To enhance the look of your kitchen, the different uses of bamboo are startling. Instead of spending a huge amount on buying tiles used for flooring, you can opt for finished bamboo which acts as a great great flooring material. Moreover you can add new chairs made of bamboo in the dining area which are aesthetically beautiful and comfortable to use. To cut the various vegetables that you need for cooking, you can use a chopping block that is made of end-grain bamboo. Another great way to implement a sleek and cozy flooring is using cork. This flooring option comes in a variety of styles and designs, and is an efficient way of saving money It is also comfortable for the feet, especially while cooking a long and tiresome meal for guests. Cork being mildew resistant is not affected by changes in temperature and moisture content that is always prevalent in the kitchen area. Cork flooring provides a better grip while walking as compared to tiles which tend to get slippery. Both bamboo and cork flooring do not require much maintenance and can be cleaned with a wet and dry mop.

Use of Reclaimed Wood

Another great alternative for an eco-friendly kitchen is reclaimed wood. Just as most of us use recycled plastic and paper, we can use recycled wood which is salvaged in factories and warehouses. Refinished lumber often produces a firm grain which strengthens the wood. The use of reclaimed wood reduces the cutting of trees and also beautifies our kitchen. We can also refinish the pieces of wood lying in our garages to make cutlery holders instead of going in for new ones.

Using Recycled Glass

Recycled glass tiles are incredibly sturdy and are beautiful to look at. These tiles are made from colorful recycled glass mixed with a base of resin or cement concrete. The hard surface is less likely to chip off as compared to the wooden counterparts. These tiles can be used as counter tops for kitchen cabinets. Stains and grease can easily be removed removed using a mild detergent.

Apart from the above mentioned materials, you can also implement eco-friendly energy saving compact fluorescent lamps which reduce consumption of electricity. Using recycled paper baked into thick sheets with resin base can be used as counter tops. These are extremely durable and are heat and scratch resistant. For cabinet doors in kitchens you can either dress up used cabinet doors by using a range of eco-friendly paints or you can use veneers that will give your cabinets a fresh look. You can also use recycled metal sheets for counter tops and sink areas. These metal sheets which come in clear coat finishes are non-toxic and durable.

The awareness of an eco-friendly environment has bought about a radical change in the way materials in kitchen design can be used. Eco-friendly kitchens are slowly but surely becoming popular for their simplistic looks and usage of non-toxic materials

Kitchen Remodeling on a Shoestring Budget

2009-12-02T12:21:00.000-08:00

Kitchen Remodeling on a Shoestring Budget
Ten simple ideas for creating a dream kitchen on a budget.So you're tired of your kitchen? According to an annual survey by the leading trade journal, Kitchen & Bath Business, so are 4.92 million other homeowners who plan to do a kitchen remodel in 2001 -- a record number. But with the typical kitchen remodeling job costing from $7,000 to $14,999, remodeling on a limited budget can be a challenging task.

The effort, however, can pay big dividends. Consider that even minor kitchen remodeling provides an 81 percent return on investment, according to Remodeling magazine's latest "Cost vs. Value Report." This means that you can enjoy your kitchen for years to come, plus reap a hefty return on your investment if you decide to sell your home down the road.

"Though adding a second story also offers a good return on investment, it's a much more invasive and costly remodel," says Nina Patel, Remodeling senior editor. "A minor kitchen remodel and bath update are simpler and more fun."

According to Patel, the popularity of home improvement stores, HGTV and the Web has educated and inspired many homeowners in their remodeling process. "In this age of large stores that carry all varieties of products, consumers want to see, touch and feel all the options so they can choose the right one for them," she explains. "Homeowners overall are more willing to spend money on items that reflect their style."

Here are simple remodeling ideas that can dramatically increase the appeal of your kitchen without breaking the bank.

1. Tile Backsplash

The days of automatically matching the backsplash to the counter are gone. Today's latest kitchen trend is adding some color and personalization with unique backsplashes that complement but don't necessarily match countertops. Try brightening the room with a backsplash featuring yellow or blue accents or even mix things up a little with a number of different colored tiles to make a checkerboard pattern. Manufactured tiles are affordable, starting at approximately $4 per square foot, and adding a few hand-painted tiles with such items as fruits, flowers or shapes can provide creative flair. Adding backsplash tiles is a simple project that even the beginning DIYer can take on without hesitation, and it can be completed in just one afternoon.

2. Pullout Faucets

Consider adding a new pullout faucet to your kitchen to provide the functionality needed for filling large pots, watering houseplants and doing assorted dishwashing and cleaning tasks. These faucets combine great looks as well as added convenience. Manufacturers such as Moen now provide pullouts with design options to make them stylish additions to the room. For example, its new Colonnade offers the charm of traditional, classic styling, while the Salora has a sleek and contemporary look complementing modern kitchen decor. Starting around $250 each, these faucets still install as regular fixtures, thanks to a simple, single-bolt tie-down installation method.

If the last time you purchased a faucet your finish options were "chrome" or "chrome," you will be pleased to see that faucets are now available in more stylish finishes, including copper or brushed stainless steel. Copper finishes are becoming increasingly popular and can provide the perfect complement to range hoods, teakettles, cookware and other items. Brushed stainless steel continues to be a popular choice, in part because it matches the look of many of the latest commercial-style appliances.

3. New Countertops

Your countertop is one of the most important and visible parts of your kitchen. A new countertop can give your kitchen a whole new look, and your choices are virtually limitless. The most popular choice is laminates. Available in hundreds of colors and textures, these countertops cost approximately $25 per linear foot. They are easy-to-clean and long lasting, but they do show cuts and nicks.

Following a close second to laminates are solid surface countertops. Although they can cost quite a bit more -- $90 to $200 per linear foot -- solid surface countertops will allow nicks, scratches and burns to be buffed out. Quartz and granite surfaces are also increasing in popularity -- but increasing in cost as well.

If you want some extras but don't want to spend a lot, consider using a laminate on your main countertop and tile on a small area of the kitchen, such as an island. Tiles cost about $4 per square foot and work beautifully on secondary work surfaces.

4. Refacing/Refinishing Cabinets

In a kitchen-remodeling project, new cabinets are usually the largest expense -- but they don't have to be. If the general structure of your cabinets is good, consider refinishing or refacing them. This can cost less than half the price of new cabinets. Refinishing means stripping, staining or painting the surface; while refacing requires replacing cabinet and drawer fronts and putting a matching veneer on the cabinet frames. Refacing creates a totally different look and allows you to change from dark wood to light, which will brighten an outdated kitchen. Both refinishing and refacing will not only save in material costs, but will also save labor costs compared to new cabinets.

If even refinishing or refacing cabinets is not in your budget, you can simply change the cabinet hardware. New knobs and handles are available in all shapes, sizes and finishes -- and some are even sculpted allowing you to create your own special kitchen look.

5. Stainless Steel Sinks

If your kitchen sink is stained, scratched or pitted, you will be happy to know that for about $300, you can get the latest in stainless steel sinks. A new trend is undermounting for fast, easy cleanup with no ridges to get in the way. In its Lancelot line, Moen offers new shapes, such as oval, round and trapezoid. If you need to fit a new sink to an existing countertop, the rectangular sink is still a popular option. Today's stainless steel sinks are durable and, thanks to sound-deadening designs, quiet. Double-bowl models, though slightly more expensive, provide more work area while extra-deep bowls provide additional capacity for large jobs.

6. New Lighting

Illuminate dark work areas with under-counter lighting that can be purchased as separate halogen lights or as a strand of rope lights. Halogen lights cost about $3 each and should be spaced 18-24 inches apart. Rope lighting is one continuous strand of lights and usually costs $3 per foot.

In addition to under-counter lighting, you may consider changing ceiling fixtures. Some of today's hottest styles are recessed lighting or pendant fixtures that hang down a few feet from the ceiling to provide better illumination for an island or eating area. Usually you can find fixtures at relatively moderate beginning prices at home centers or kitchen showrooms.

7. Stenciling, Painting and Wallpapering

Plain-colored walls are becoming a thing of the past as more homeowners opt for bold, colorful designs. Many new, faux finish designs use sponging techniques and stencils to personalize the look of the kitchen. Even the color palettes are changing from neutrals to dark blues, greens and maroons. Besides being inexpensive, painting is one of the easiest projects to complete in a fairly short amount of time and it makes a dramatic difference in the appearance of any room.

Borders and wallpaper are also as popular as ever in the kitchen. Since so many of them now come pre-pasted, the wallpapering process is pretty simple. If your kitchen is already painted, a decorative border can add just the right touch of style and color. Borders are popping up on all areas of the wall, not just near the ceiling. Try a waist-level, chair-rail border or even something at eye level to break up the room.

8. Appliances

One of the biggest expenses in a kitchen-remodeling project is replacing the appliances. To avoid buying new appliances all at once, selectively add appliances by choosing the one that is most out-of-date in either look or function, and then add others over time as your budget allows.

If your old appliances still fit the bill in terms of performance, but you'd like an updated look, you can actually repaint them or buy new panels to match the new decor or cabinetry in your kitchen. Visit your local home center to find out how this can be accomplished for your particular brand of appliances.

9. Workspace and Storage Options

The island is usually the hallmark of any kitchen remodel, but if you are on a budget, a new, built-in island may not be on the agenda. If you still want the convenience and storage space of an island, consider one on wheels. For approximately $300, you can have a kitchen island that has the extra advantage of allowing you to stow it away in the corner when not in use.

Another suggestion is to create elegant storage areas in the kitchen by taking the fronts off your cabinets and installing glass shelving. In this way, you can mimic the open look of today's modern kitchen cabinetry while still having a place to display cookbooks, dishes or glassware.

To maximize storage space in the kitchen, go to your local home retailer and look for little extras that can be added to your current cabinetry such as a spice organizer, a place for recyclables, plate racks or wine racks.

10 Window Treatments

Nothing catches the eye like windows, so making them look good is critical. If you sew, you can bring a new look to your windows for the price of materials and an investment of your time. If not, pre-made window treatments can beautify your kitchen, often for less than $100 per window. The latest styles include tab top valences, swags mounted on metal-finished rods and a variety of blinds. You can add shelves or interior window boxes to your kitchen windows for plants or flowers. This little trick is perfect for blocking out a less-than-desirable view of a neighbor's house or insulating the room from a busy street.

For more information about remodeling projects or Moen products, contact Moen Incorporated at 25300 Al Moen Drive, North Olmsted, Ohio 44070-8022, call toll free 1 (800) BUY MOEN (1-800-289-6636) or visit its Web site at www.moen.com.

Remodeling magazine's "Cost vs. Value Report" can be found at www.remodelingmagazine.com.

Courtesy of ARA Content, www.ARAcontent.com, e-mail: info@ARAcontent.com

EDITORS NOTE: Moen Incorporated is one of the world's largest producers of residential and commercial plumbing products. Moen is the #1 brand of faucets in North America. The company manufactures a complete line of single and two-handle faucets in a wide assortment of styles and finishes. It is also a leading producer of residential and commercial sinks and a variety of shower accessories, and manufactures a complete line of plumbing parts and accessories (sold under the trade names Moen, Chicago Specialty, Dearborn Brass, Hoov-R-Line and Wrightway Manufacturing).

How To Create A Designer Kitchen

2009-12-02T12:10:00.000-08:00

How To Create A Designer Kitchen
Have you ever wondered how the pros create a designer kitchen? Here are some simple guidelines for creating your designer kitchen.
Enlarge ImageHow do you create an attention-grabbing, designer kitchen on a reasonable budget? How do builders and remodelers design kitchens that sizzle? They’ve figured out the secret to creating kitchens that sell. They hire a kitchen designer! So, if builders think kitchen design is a smart idea, do you think it might be worth the investment?

Today’s remodeled kitchen can easily cost $25,000 – $50,000 or more. If you are going make a sizeable investment upgrading your kitchen, you may want to allocate a portion of your budget to kitchen design. Why? Because a good designer comes up with great ideas. You pay for a trained eye to see what you can’t see. A good designer suggests design elements that won’t blow the budget. They know which details are relatively inexpensive, but add significant "punch" to your project.

Once you’ve budgeted money for design (generally 3-5%), now what do you do? Well, before looking for a kitchen designer, start thinking about what want in your kitchen. A kitchen designer will ask you what you have in mind so they can narrow the focus of your design. Is there a specific appliance that you want to make the focal point of your kitchen? Do you like exotic wood cabinets? Or do you just want a kitchen where everything coordinates and flows together?

Before you contact a kitchen designer, you may also want to visit a kitchen appliance dealer. A designer vent hood or an oversized range can serve as a great focal point for your new kitchen. Then you may want to start looking in design magazines, a great source for design ideas. Find the kitchen or the design elements you like in a magazine and simply replicate those ideas that appeal to you. Finally, after you’ve gathered some general ideas of what you want in your kitchen, start looking for a kitchen designer.

Where do you find a good kitchen designer? And once you’ve settled on a designer and come up with a design, how do you know what your design will cost to build? How do you avoid designing a kitchen you can’t afford? Wouldn’t it be helpful if you had some guidance throughout the design process to determine construction costs?

That’s where a "design-build" firm can help. Design-build remodelers offer both design and construction services. When working with a design-build contractor, the designer creates the beauty (the floor plan, the cabinet elevations, the finished material selections, etc.) and the contractor creates the estimate. There’s no more guesswork. When you hire a design-build contractor you know exactly what the design will cost.

Today, there are number of professional remodelers offering design services. Some design-build remodelers provide in-house design services. Other contractors outsource design to kitchen-designer, business partners. The best design-build contractors couple top design talent with professional construction services.

So how do you create a designer kitchen? Since they appreciate the value of good design, you may want to start by looking for a good design-build contractor. Check their work, check their trade associations, look at their project pictures and talk to their designers. A reputable design-build remodeler can be a valuable partner for creating your new designer kitchen!

Outdoor Kitchen Plans

2009-12-02T12:08:00.000-08:00

Outdoor Kitchen Plans
In case you have made up your mind about having an outdoor kitchen or are contemplating the idea, this is the article that will help you make up your mind and finalize your outdoor kitchen plans...Some people like to paint pictures, or do gardening, or build a boat in the basement. Other people get a tremendous pleasure out of the kitchen, because cooking is just as creative and imaginative an activity as drawing, or woodcarving, or music. ~ Julia Child

If you are one of those who absolutely love to spend their time in the kitchen, as you experiment with different ingredients and herbs and invent new recipes, then you are obviously interested in making your work area more delightful and interesting. Ever thought about having an outdoor kitchen? Well if you have made up your mind about having an outdoor kitchen or are contemplating the idea, this is the article that will help you make up your mind and finalize your outdoor kitchen plans.

Outdoor Kitchen Plans

Before building an outdoor kitchen you will have to ensure that your outdoor kitchen plan fits the legal constraints. Make sure you check the zoning requirements in your country so that you can ensure that your outdoor kitchen is at a legal distance from the property lines. Although a permit for the kitchen construction wont be necessary, you will have to acquire permits for the plumbing and electrical fittings.

Remember that an outdoor kitchen is not merely an outdoor barbeque station; it is a complete kitchen with all the grills, cookware, storage cabinets, a dishwasher, oven, and also the refrigerator! While making your outdoor kitchen plans make sure to pick a spot that is not exposed to too much wind, snow or rain. Shelter the spot adequately to provide shelter from the weather but keep it open enough, so that you can roast your delicious barbeque and bake your mouth watering apple pie, even when you can enjoy the sight of drizzles. Usually a patio area is the perfect spot for an outdoor kitchen.

A washing sink is a must for any kitchen. Ensure you have an adequately large sink with undisturbed water supply. The height and the placement of the sink should be such that it is comfortable for the person who is cooking, to reach out to the sink for disposing used utensils. Plumbing work needs to be done for this and hence it would be a great idea to inform the plumber and hire his services with prior intimation.

Depending on the space available, incorporate other useful elements like a storage shelf to store your cookware, a rod with hooks to hang your pans comfortably. In case the space and electrical fittings allow you, incorporate other electrical appliances like a refrigerator, or a blender to assist you while you are cooking outdoors. In case you can't get enough electrical fittings, try and use the conventional grinding tools like a mortar and a pestle, it is said that a puree of herbs made in a blender can never match the crude and mesmerizing aroma of herbs ground using the mortar and a pestle.

While designing the kitchen, make sure that you get the perfect countertop. It is advisable to get a countertop with inlaid grills for cooking. If you are planning to use an electric grill, the electricity connections need to be in place. Make sure that the counter top is wide enough and comfortable high for you to work in the kitchen. A barbeque will be a must-have for an outdoor kitchen, since outdoor cooking is almost synonymous with barbeque parties.

In case gardening is also one of your hobbies then you can enhance your outdoor kitchen further. Wouldn’t it be a great idea to have home cooked meals with fresh vegetables and herbs from your very own garden? Yes, plant a vegetable and herb garden right next to your outdoor kitchen. Every time you decide to cook, all you need to do is pick up some fresh veggies, and aromatic herbs from your very own garden, put on your apron and get started!

How to Design a Gourmet Kitchen

2009-12-02T12:07:00.001-08:00

How to Design a Gourmet Kitchen
The kitchen is very important in a luxury home and no expense should be spared when designing a gourmet kitchen.The kitchen is the one room that needs to function really well. After all, good food is one of the most basic needs of the family. The kitchen is the place where you rustle up those delicious meals and keep your family and friends entertained. Thus, the kitchen has to be clean, clutter free and convenient.

If you've ever spent some time in a kitchen you know it is essential to have plenty of space and all of the right amenities. A good meal takes time to prepare, not to mention more cooking utensils and space. There is also a good chance that at some point you will do some entertaining around the kitchen. With all of this time spent in the kitchen it is worth the effort to make the kitchen a good fit for your lifestyle. Make sure there is plenty of room, and most importantly it is a comfortable place to work in.

Given below is a list of must haves for the ultra gourmet kitchen:

• The Food Prep Zone: Gourmet kitchens need to have knife drawers with special tools to keep the knives straight and sharp, cutting boards that come out and disappear into the cabinets when required and counters with lower height. Marble countertops help to retard the growth of bacteria.

• Cooking Zone: Many homeowners now prefer separate ovens instead of freestanding ranges, a selection of tall cabinets, base cabinets and ones with special pull out systems.

• Baking Zone: Cooks who are serious about baking like counters with less height, making them easier to knead bread on. Nowadays, you can also get pull out box cabinets, special tiered cabinets, cake decorating kits and various other items.

• Specific Storage Zone: Instead of having a pantry that stores everything in one spot, gourmet kitchens have work-specific storage areas. For example, there can be a 'breakfast center' where you can store cereals, syrups, bagels, mixes, and so on. Similarly, you can have lunch and dinner centers where you can store equipment appropriately.

• Dining Zone: Gourmet kitchens often have built-in cabinets that double as buffets, used to separate the kitchen from the dining space. With proper lighting and aesthetics, you can make this area look very luxurious.

• Wet Bar Service Zone: This area can be used as a transition area between the food preparation and serving zones. Wine racks can be built in and combined with under-the-counter wine coolers and beverage centers.

• Meal Planning Zone: You can have built in bookshelves or cabinets that can be a perfect corner for planning your meals, searching for new recipes, mulling over cookbooks and similar activities. You should have all the modern appliances required for cooking – starting from microwaves to ovens to dishwashers and similar. Having all of your appliances in Stainless Steel, or built into the cabinets gives your kitchen a clean, streamlined look.

For the best in gourmet kitchens it is a good idea to hire a professional to help you design the most functional space possible. Some interior decorators specialize in kitchen design, or there are kitchen specialists to assist you with the kitchen setup. Another good resource are home shows and designer showrooms. There you will find all of the latest ideas for making the kitchen space as good as it can be. You can also take a look at what products the top companies are coming out with to enhance your gourmet kitchen.

Pam Ingram has resided in the Santa Clarita Valley real estate market for over 30 years. Her local knowledge, experience, and contacts are invaluable in finding your dream home or a buyer for your current property. Looking for a Santa Clarita realtor? Call Pam for the scoop on the local neighborhoods and other useful information.

Interactive Kitchen Design

2009-12-02T12:05:00.001-08:00

Interactive Kitchen Design
Designing your kitchen has been simplified because of the numerous options that you can have at your disposal because of interactive kitchen designs. So go ahead and let your creative juices flow, after all you might just design a kitchen that gets featured in a Home and Lifestyle magazine!Rachel had always been proud of being a miss know-it-all. She always felt she knew everything there was to know about everything. One day she realized that she needed to update her information when her colleague mentioned interactive kitchen designs and the wonderful designs that could be created with just a few interactive designing tools. She left the office that day dejected and switched on her computer as soon as she reached the confines of her home. That done, she poured herself a glass of wine and took a packet of wafers all ready to spend the rest of the evening updating herself about this designing tool. After all she did so want to retain her title!

Interactive Kitchen Design – What is it?

Today with all the changes that have been wrought in web technology it is possible to see what your kitchen will look like in a lifelike three-dimensional sphere. This technology ensures that the three-dimensional sphere resembles your kitchen without actually going ahead and investing a large sum of money on it. To do this, you can use an interactive design tool in order to try out different ideas and combinations. This tool is very interactive, easy to use and can help you select kitchen finishes, faucets and fixtures.

The approach used by interactive kitchen design is one of multiple sketches that are used to exemplify several design possibilities. Apart from only giving wing to your creative urges, you can also interact with interior designers and contractors. This tool certainly helps you build your kitchen as well as identify the features that suit your lifestyle the most.

This interactive kitchen tool is very useful because it comes with an interactive kitchen guide that provides you with the best online information and the resources available. This guide certainly makes sure that you get the best deal when designing your kitchen.

Using this tool you can also save and print your kitchen design combinations along with the model numbers and estimated prices of things like faucets. It is advisable to load the design on to your hard drive too. This information might assist you when you decide to make another series of kitchen designs. The interactive kitchen tools can use be used for free on most websites, so you could just try your hand at it!

Kitchen Remodelling

You can use an interactive designing tool even when you are planning to remodel your kitchen in order to ensure that it meets its daily requirements. But, before you actually get down to designing it is advisable to get acquainted to online designing. While at this, it would also be a good idea to look around what is available in your kitchen, since there might be a few things you would like to keep!

Once you are done with that, you can use the interactive kitchen tools to design the kitchen you had in mind. Now you can go ahead and take the design to your contractor and explain visually, telling him in details what your requirements are.

A remodelling interactive kitchen design uses an approach that includes numerous sketches that are made up of several design possibilities. This and the interaction with contractors and interior designers ensure that you have a kitchen that fits your lifestyle. With a clearer picture about your requirements the interior designer and contractor will give you numerous design possibilities as well as tell you about the advantages associated with each potential layout. With their help and the interactive kitchen remodelling tools, you will have a kitchen space that develops around necessary design elements as well as the beauty you have so long desired.

Today's Kitchens Cook with Color

2009-12-02T12:04:00.001-08:00

Today's Kitchens Cook with Color
Bright, bold hues make a statement in today's designer kitchens. Bright, bold colors are making their way into America's kitchens. Homeowners are painting over the whites and beiges that once were the kitchen trend and making a statement with cobalt blue, pink, turquoise, orange, red and even lime green. In many cases, white has been relegated to a small role as accent or trim.

"Neutral colors in the kitchen are not the goal anymore," says Sharon Hanby-Robie, interior designer and author of "My Name Isn't Martha, But I Can Decorate My Home." "Today, it's OK to be expressive, and it's OK to use bright, bold colors to complement or totally create the look you want. Why not use the colors that you want to live with, instead of the ones you think your home's next owner will settle for?" Hanby-Robie asks.

So what's behind this revolution of color in the kitchen? "It could have to do with basic societal changes," said Hanby-Robie. She believes that during the '80s and much of the '90s we were a transitional society. Many people lived in starter homes or homes in which they did not plan to stay very long. As a result, most people stuck with the neutral hues that represented a low-risk look they could easily leave if they decided to sell.

Today, Hanby-Robie says, more people are in homes in which they plan to stay for quite some time. In addition, individuality, rather than conformity, is again in vogue. The result, she says, is that people are less afraid of taking chances and more concerned with expressing themselves, and it shows in their homes, particularly in the kitchen.

Expression Through Colorful Hues

So what is the best use of color in the kitchen to create a mood? Let's take a look at some color palettes.

Warm Colors

Colors such as red, yellow and orange invite a person into a room with warmth and coziness. However, the cozy feeling these colors create in a large room can make a small room look even smaller. When using warm colors, be sure to intersperse whites and neutrals to balance some of their intensity. According to information from Better Homes and Gardens, amber, peach or coral in eating areas spark appetites and electrify the conversation, while red evokes emotions. Liberal use of any of these warm colors is sure to give the kitchen the color pampering it deserves as the hearth of the home.

For "warm" color finishes in cookware, faucets and accessories, copper is the latest trend. Copper is a perfect complement to kitchen materials such as granite and marble. It also blends beautifully with other warm colors in the kitchen including terra cotta, rust, peach and sage green.

Cool Colors

To make a room appear larger, look to cool colors like blue, green or purple. These colors calm and soothe and are said to "reenergize weary souls." Better Homes and Gardens also notes that proud, strong blues add responsibility and contentment into the mood while pale purple blues prompt reflection and dreaming.

For finishes that match this cooler palette, there are now many more options than just plain, shiny chrome. Brushed finishes in stainless and nickel add interest and texture to a kitchen. Plus, these finishes clean up well and hold their beauty in one of the busiest rooms in the house.

Spicing It Up

And where in the kitchen can these colors can be presented most effectively?

Paint is the obvious place to start when adding color to a kitchen or any other room. It's easy to apply and, if the homeowner decides he or she doesn't like it later, also easy to change. Kitchen remodelers shouldn't let the fear factor stop them from doing something bold or using a color they really like.

Some of the hottest paint colors right now are rich jewel tones which can change an otherwise ordinary room into an eye-popping gem. Once a color is chosen, be sure to make use of some of the latest techniques to apply the paint such as sponging, ragging and stenciling. Major manufacturers like Sherwin-Williams, Glidden and Dutch Boy all offer helpful brochures and color guides to get you started.

But paint is only the beginning. Today's kitchens use color in wallpaper and borders, too. Choose wall coverings which feature colorful flowers or a bold pattern to showcase the homeowner's personality or interests.

A word of caution when planning the look of a new kitchen: don't go overboard on a lot of different colors. Experts say that two to three colors, when blended in a room properly, can create a dramatic look, but adding too many colors can be overwhelming.

Functionality in Color

Why stop the color with the kitchen's walls? Color is now popping up in some of the areas once reserved for chromes and neutrals. When it comes to faucets, manufacturers like Moen are offering new finish options to brighten up the room. Finishes such as copper, which matches gourmet cookware, kitchen accents and appliances, are available on the latest faucet styles including the new Colonnade. This traditionally-styled faucet not only creates a "warm" look in the kitchen, but also provides the functionality of a pullout. For a more modern style, turn to a brushed stainless pullout faucet such as Moen's Salora. This faucet also provides the necessary reach for cooking and cleaning tasks, but in cool shades to match today's hottest commercial appliances. Although chrome used to be the standard for durability in the kitchen, these latest finishes are strengthened with LifeShine titanium to provide lasting beauty for the life of the faucet without tarnishing, discoloring or fading.

Appliances are also jumping on the color bandwagon. Many manufacturers are taking the popular "retro" look into microwaves, dishwashers, ranges and refrigerators and creating colorful blues, greens and yellows. Experts advise kitchen remodelers to make sure they absolutely love these colored appliances and will want them for years to come before making a costly investment. It may be a safer bet to start the dramatic kitchen color scheme with a different color paint or a backsplash -- something that can more easily be changed (after all, remember those avocado appliances from the '70s?).

Another more functional area of the kitchen now coming alive with color is the sink. No longer available in just white, composite sinks like MoenStone's designer sinks now come in bold, beautiful colors like Sapphire, a bright, vibrant blue and Yellow Stone, a warm, buttery yellow. While not only great looking, these sinks are made from high-strength composite materials that to withstand everyday cuts, scratches and scuffs.

If the goal is to achieve a more contemporary look, the tried-and-true look of stainless steel sinks is now available with an added twist -- new shapes. Oval, trapezoid and round undermount sinks will spice up the kitchen with modern elegance, and are available in kitchen showrooms and home center stores.

Colorful Surfaces that Really Work the Room

The rules of yesterday have been thrown out when it comes to contemporary kitchen decorating. Colorful tiles on the floor, countertop and backsplash are brightening up the kitchen and providing a great surface on which to work and play. Using dramatic colors on a center island and then a more neutral color on the rest of the countertops seems to be the trend, reports Hanby-Robie. And since the center island is also central to entertaining, cooking and other activities in the kitchen, it makes the perfect spot for a focal point of color. Another place where color, and even a pattern or design can be added, is the wall behind the range. Greens, blues, oranges and reds are showing up in greater numbers on this back surface. And when it comes to flooring, homeowners are taking it up a notch with brightly-colored tiles or laminates throughout the entire room. For the more conservative, flooring colors can be used more sparingly or as accents interspersed with neutral tones.

Where Neutrals Still Reign

One area of the kitchen that seems to be more inclined to stay "neutral" is the cabinetry. Because cabinets are usually the largest investment in a kitchen remodel, more homeowners are sticking to neutral colors for cabinets to offset the colors found on the walls or flooring. White cabinets against brightly painted or papered walls are a hot trend, as well as traditional, natural woods like oak, maple and cherry. To spice up existing cabinets, try colored or designer hardware handles that complement the surrounding colorful walls -- another generally inexpensive update that can easily be changed later if desired.

Those Colorful Little Extras

There are many other ways to add color to the kitchen that don't even require a remodel. Try colorful fabrics with bold patterns for tablecloths or window treatments. Fresh flowers, brightly-colored canisters, candles and other accessories can all create a fresh perspective on a kitchen that has become drab. Lighting can also add a new mood to the room. Homeowners can either invest in recessed lighting or add additional fixtures to brighten a room. Even small kitchen appliances such as mixers, blenders, toasters and other cooking essentials are being offered in unique shades.

"People are more secure these days -- with their families, their neighborhoods and their houses -- and that's giving them the confidence to express themselves by decorating with the colors they like and want to live with," Hanby-Robie said.

Whether it's warm, cool, bright or bold, colors are cooking in America's favorite room -- the kitchen.

For more information about remodeling projects or Moen products, contact Moen Incorporated at 25300 Al Moen Drive, North Olmsted, Ohio 44070-8022, call toll free 1-800-BUY MOEN (1-800-289-6636) or visit its Web site at www.moen.com.

Courtesy of ARA Content, www.ARAcontent.com, e-mail: info@ARAcontent.com

EDITORS NOTE: Contact Ginny Long, director of Public Affairs, Moen Incorporated, (800) 321-8809, Ext. 2019, or Chris R. Lynch, Robert Falls & Co. Public Relations, (216) 696-0229.

Moen Incorporated is one of the world's largest producers of residential and commercial plumbing products. Moen is the #1 brand of faucets in North America. The company manufactures a complete line of single and two-handle faucets in a wide assortment of styles and finishes. It is also a leading producer of residential and commercial sinks, a variety of shower accessories, bathroom accessories and a complete line of plumbing parts and accessories (sold under the trade names Moen, Chicago Specialty, Cleveland Faucet Group, CSI Bath Furnishings, Dearborn Brass, Hoov-R-Line and Wrightway Manufacturing).

Moen Incorporated is an operating company of Fortune Brands, Inc. (NYSE: FO, www.fortunebrands.com), the consumer products company, with headquarters in Lincolnshire, IL.

Designing your house kitchen

2009-12-02T12:02:00.000-08:00

Designing your house kitchen
The kitchen is an essential part of our daily lives. We spend multiple hours a day in the kitchen, from preparing food to taking studies of children, discussing important matters and also relaxing with a hot cup of tea after finishing the household work. How about revamping it to elevate our moods!These days, the kitchen is more then simply a place to cook. It is a place of many overlapping activities of cooking, gathering, communicating, relaxing and dining. Therefore it is important to make your kitchen more functional, pleasing and a place to communicate.

Designing the Kitchen
Kitchen designing has always been an expensive and complicated home improvement project. Two major obstacles stand in the way of creating a beautiful kitchen for today and tomorrow. One is the cost factor and secondly a long, messy, and disruptive period of construction. By carefully selecting the style of the room and its furnishings the obstacles can be avoided. A good way to lower the cost of remodeling is to invest in components, which will work efficiently and last a long time. If space allows, most kitchens benefit from an additional piece of furniture to provide storage where you can store all the kitchen appliances giving your kitchen a tidy and spacious look.

A practical and low cost approach to furnishing a kitchen can include creative reuse of shelves, benches, tables, dressers, cabinets and various other used materials carefully and thoughtfully placed in a way that will look good as well as give you the additional space you require. An easy way to draw particular activities away from your main work area is to add a cupboard or sideboard. Both can add visual appeal and help kitchen counters remain clear. For instance a sideboard laid out with a coffeepot, cereals, cups and bowls will help concentrate the breakfast crowd near the table. Resulting in less clutter and clear counter space.

One of the techniques for achieving more clear space in your kitchen is to keep jumble and clutter to a minimum. You can do this by creating places for storing foods and kitchenware. Many kitchen manufacturers can help you maximize storage space. Good kitchen plans accommodate users' varying heights, age mobility limitations, dexterity, and, most important, the changes in those elements, which, inevitably, come with, time. Lower some wall cabinets. Who says wall cabinets should all be hung at the same height? Mix it up a bit and you'll get more storage within comfortable reach range. Cabinets can be placed right on the counter top, or can be stepped up and down to match changes in counter heights. Maximize storage with drawers and rollout shelves. In base cabinets, rollouts improve accessibility by bringing pots and supplies out to you. Drawers of varying shapes and sizes used in or between upper and lower cabinets increase storage and add design interest.

Thus the key to remodeling your kitchen for the future is to think about the large amount of time that you and your family spend there. Accessibility, safety and convenience are primary goals when remodeling a kitchen. Your kitchen should be comfortable, yet a functional room. A place where stories can be shared as dinner is being prepared. Bring your kitchen out of the past and into the present and future. The following list highlights how to remodel varies components of your kitchen. Good luck!

Cabinets
Good choices for selecting cabinets are natural, and dark cherry wood finishes since they can be easily coordinated with wall paint, tile, and flooring. For a more contemporary look, select less predictable cabinets with more unusual or customized finishes.

Flooring
Flooring selection is one of the most important decisions to make for the kitchen. The flooring should match the kitchen design and should give your kitchen the contemporary look. The latest trend is the wood flooring, which easily blends in with floors for adjoining rooms, and whereas the usual tile flooring provides easy maintenance and durability.

Kitchen Flooring Ideas

2009-12-02T11:59:00.000-08:00

Kitchen Flooring Ideas
A kitchen with good flooring goes a long way in complementing its interiors. You should choose the type and style of flooring in your kitchen in relation to the decor. The following lines will provide information on kitchen flooring ideas.It is often seen that whenever people renovate or remodel a kitchen, they tend to ignore the very important aspect of flooring. Without proper flooring a remodeled kitchen looks incomplete. Hence it is of utmost importance that the type of flooring you choose goes well with the surroundings of your kitchen. it makes sense to include the flooring plan at the same time while setting up a new kitchen or even renovation an old one.

Wooden flooring is a great option if the you have got wooden cabinets in your kitchen, and it complements the lighting and dark colors on walls and the ceiling. Ceramic flooring which is commonly used in homes all over goes well with granite furnishings in the kitchen. Whatever type of kitchen flooring you choose, the surface must be durable and comfortable to walk on.

Wooden Flooring

Wooden flooring adds to the aesthetic feel of the kitchen. The surface of wooden floors which are made from hardwood provide a better grip and are less slippery than glazed tiles. In wooden flooring you have the option of installing pre-finished flooring or unfinished flooring that needs to be sanded once installed. The wood veneer differs in thickness and can be chosen in accordance with the required width for your kitchen. Although wooden flooring adds to the overall feel of a kitchen, it has to be kept in mind that changes in temperature in the kitchen area result in the wood expanding and contracting. This type of flooring requires proper care and maintenance. Damp mopping along with vacuuming and sweeping ensures that the floor is free from accumulated food ingredients and dirt from constant foot traffic.

Ceramic Flooring

These tiles are used commonly in all kitchens and come in a glazed and unglazed finish. The tiles used for ceramic flooring come in different sizes. The most commonly used sizes range from twelve inches to eighteen inches square. If the kitchen area is small, it is recommended that you use twelve inch tiles or less, as this helps to make the kitchen look more spacious. Although ceramic tile flooring requires very little maintenance, timely cleaning and mopping is required to maintain a clean and sparkling look.

Types of Tiles

There are different types of tiles you can choose for the flooring of your kitchen. Most people prefer mosaic tiles that are available easily in the market. Mosaic tiles come in a number of patterns and are available in a glazed and unglazed finish. These tiles are durable and also resist moisture which is common problem in kitchen areas. Although quarry tiles need to be maintained regularly, they are becoming increasingly popular in thematic kitchens and come in a common color tone of brown, red and gray. Because of their porous nature these tiles are susceptible to stains and dirt which cannot be removed easily. Porcelain tiles, which are being excessively used in designer kitchens are extremely durable and are easy to clean and maintain.

Most tiles come in an array of different shapes and colors and are easily available in the market. Although custom-designed or hand-painted tiles are very expensive, they give the kitchen a unique and nostalgic feel. If the laying patterns of tiles are intricate and contain special accents on borders, be assured that the cost of flooring will be higher than normal.

A beautiful floor enhances the look of a kitchen and goes a long way in determining the overall look and feel. So if you haven't paid attention to the flooring in your kitchen, it's time to sit up and take notice.

Kitchen Design: Small Kitchen Remodeling IdeasRemodeling your small kitchen:

2009-12-02T11:58:00.001-08:00

Kitchen Design: Small Kitchen Remodeling IdeasRemodeling your small kitchen:
When remodeling your small kitchen, the primary emphasis must be on utilizing the available area well and creating or freeing up more space to allow convenient storage, easy installation of required kitchen appliances and to facilitate movement. You must be able to perform all your kitchen tasks without any hindrance.

Draw up a kitchen design plan:
To start out with, decide what kind of kitchen you want, modern or traditional, L-shaped or U-shaped, Galley or Two-way Galley. Once you have formed an idea of what you want, draw a blueprint of your kitchen design and plan out the space you require and the storage area. Think where you want the cabinets and how you are going to use them. Decide where you want the sink, the work counter and the refrigerator. Consider where you want to put the service points for water, gas and electricity. Cast an eye over your present kitchen when planning the new design and think how things can be arranged differently. You can also use a kitchen design software to help with your planning and drag and drop items until you get exactly what you want.

Creating more space in your kitchen:
If possible, you can take down a wall and create an open plan kitchen that extends into the living area. You can put in a kitchen island to separate the two parts. Instead of a fixed island, you can get one that can be rolled about as required. Islands come in different varieties and shapes, so, as fits your overall design, you can get a rectangular, square, rounded or oval island. If the island doubles as a storage space or a work counter, all the more better.

Install cabinets and drawers that go right up to the ceiling, so you can easily store away your cooking utensils, cutlery, plates, condiments, vegetables and other things. Put the less-often used items in the upper cabinets and frequently used items in the lower ones. If everything doesn't fit in, you could add hooks to the cabinet doors to hang pots and pans from. You might also want to review all the things you own and get rid of stuff that you don't really need. Either way, try to keep the clutter to a minimum.

Instead of a large dining table, go for a small corner table or a drop table. Or you can leave out tables from your scheme and put in a built-in wall counter, or build a table-height food preparation counter and double it as an eating area.

Get smaller and compact kitchen appliances. Install a larger sink, so it is easier to wash.

Giving an impression of spaciousness in your kitchen:
Apart from an optimum planning of space, you can create a spacious ambiance in your kitchen by judicious use of color and light.

Using a pale-colored wood for your cabinets or painting them in a pastel hue, for example, will create a more light appearance in the kitchen. You can help this effect further by installing glass-faced cabinet doors in place of solid ones.

When painting, papering or tiling the kitchen walls, again go for light, pastel shades with, maybe, splashes of brighter colors. The general rule is to use three main colors and their various shades and tints, but this isn't an iron-clad convention. Go for small and delicate patterns over bold ones. And use small-sized tiles rather than large or extra-large ones. Diagonally installed floor tiles can also help create the illusion of space.

If your kitchen has good ventilation and allows in plenty of natural light, that will be another plus. Consider installing a skylight, if this is possible and if you have rather small windows.

Before installing artificial lighting in your kitchen, go over your kitchen plan and identify the main areas that need sufficient lighting. You can have a central light for the whole kitchen and spot lighting for the cooking and washing areas. Install lights in cabinets and in under-counter storage areas, so you can search inside them easily. Make sure your kitchen lighting is both functional and aesthetic. A well-lit, well-planned kitchen will be a pleasure to live with.

Kitchen Layout

2009-12-02T11:52:00.000-08:00

Kitchen Layout
Are you planning to design your kitchen? Read on to know about the kitchen layout that will suit the space.I have just moved into my house, and I can assure you that it wasn’t a cakewalk! Today, when I look at my home, I am amazed at the amount of work we actually had done within the given time frame. I especially love the kitchen, not because I love to cook, but because that it where I allowed myself the freedom to experiment keeping in mind my budget and the space available. Thankfully the time and money were well spent.

Looking for the perfect kitchen layout isn’t easy, so I thought I would share my findings with you. Hope this article helps you find the right kitchen layout!

Kitchen Layout

The Single Line Layout

This layout is a simple and a smart solution for rooms that are narrow and have one wall that is over 10 feet long sans doors and windows. The linear design of this layout is good as it allows for unimpeded traffic flow. If you are planning to include this layout in your kitchen, remember to place the sink in the middle of the platform with adequate space separating it from the range. Doing this would ensure that you don’t have to walk from one end of the room to the other so often.

The Corridor Layout

This layout offers the most efficient use of space as the two rows allow lots of room for preparation as well as moving between the activity areas. While implementing this plan, do ensure that there is enough room for opposite drawers to open at the same time. Also remember to keep the cleaning and cooking areas on the same side so that the risk of accidents while moving hot pans between the kitchen and the range are minimized.

The L-shape Layout

This layout is ideal for a family kitchen or for entertaining guests because it can easily accommodate chairs and tables in the same area. This kitchen design also benefits from the lack of through-traffic as the two adjacent walls are utilized in the design. In the L-shape layout, the sink, range and fridge should be separated by a preparation area.

The U-shape Layout

This layout makes use of the three full walls in a room. Using this layout offers the perfect working kitchen because most of the things required in the kitchen such as the range, fridge and the sink can be spaced out in such a way as to offer maximum efficiency and convenience. The U-shape of the layout also allows for large amounts of storage space and countertop.

The Island Layout

The island layout is perfect if you have more floor space available. Using this layout allows the cook to socialize while preparing the food. You could also make the island the focal point of the kitchen by including a cooktop with a canopy over the island!

Kitchen Design Tips
Place your sink(s) in an area where you have clear work surfaces to prepare food on both sides.
While planning your drawers and cupboards remember to do so around the appliances in your kitchen. Doing this will ensure that you have easy access to your everyday kitchenware and utensils.
Avoid placing appliances like dishwashers and ovens in a corner as this can create potential dead space and obstruct access to other drawers and cupboards when their doors are left open.
Include plenty of power points at various appliance locations.
When placing your fridge, do so in an area separate from the oven and hob in order to prevent potential damage caused by clashes in temperature.
When buying an oven, try and look for an eye-level one. Remember to place the oven next to other tall cabinets and a nearby heat-resistant bench surface.
Place the dishwasher near the sink as this will allow for easy loading, unloading as well as storage.

Cleaning Laminate Floor

2009-11-27T04:24:00.001-08:00

Cleaning Laminate Floor
Laminate floors are one of the easiest flooring types to keep clean, with these ideas you can keep your floors looking their best.
Enlarge ImageCleaning Wood Laminate Floors

One of the biggest advantages to laminate floors is that they are made to look good for many years with very little upkeep: cleaning wood laminate floor and keeping them looking their best takes some upkeep, this is simple by using the following tips:

A mixture of 1/4 cup of vinegar into a 30 ounce spray bottle works well with a mop. Combine the water and vinegar, spraying a small area of your laminate floor and mopping it up right away. This works well for cleaning and allowing the floor to dry quickly with no streaks.

Store-bought Cleaners that are made specifically for Laminate floors are available at your local store. While these work well there seems to be no greater overall improvement than the home made mixture listed above.

Microfiber pads also work well without the need to use liquid.

If you do use a mop, use very hot water and make sure the mop is wrung out well - it will allow the floor to dry faster.

You can also clean your laminate floor by using the wand attachment on your vacuum. (avoid using anything else because it can scratch the laminate if sand or grit is in the vacuum).

Do NOT wax or polish your floor.

Here are some other ideas for keeping your laminate floor in top shape:

Try to blot up any spills on your laminate floors as soon as they happen. Never allow liquids to stand on your floor.

Do not wash or wet mop the floor - the less water you apply to the floor the better, this can prevent swelling, warping or delamination.

for spots such as candle wax or chewing gum, harden the spot with ice and then gently scrape with a plastic scraper (like a credit card). Be careful not to scratch the laminate floors. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

keep your pets nails trimmed to avoid unnecessary scratching.

Place protective pads under tables and chairs. A mat under furniture with coasters is a good idea as well.

If your laminate is scratched, see if you can buy a touch up stick from your manufacturer.

If there is an area that cannot be cleaned to your satisfaction, a trained professional can also be called to replace the plank

Housekeeping Made Easy

2009-11-27T04:16:00.000-08:00

Housekeeping Made Easy
Here are a few simple ways that will help you in keeping your house shining and sparkling clean...Spoiled food odour:

Place a bowl of white vinegar on the counter for a few hours. The odour will disappear for good.

Freshen a garbage disposal:

Sprinkle baking soda in it along with a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Scrub with a brush (a new toilet brush works great), getting under the rubber gasket and all around the inside. Then, turn on water and let the disposal run to flush thoroughly. For a fresh citrus scent, throw in a few cut up lemons or limes and run them through, too, using lots of water.

Freshen laundry basket:

Place a fabric softener sheet in the bottom of your laundry basket (remember to change it weekly). You can also simply sprinkle some baking soda in the bottom of your basket and that will help absorb the odours as well.

Freshen linen closet:

In the linen closet place cotton balls that have been sprayed with your favourite scent. Once they are dry place them in corners and on the shelves.

Microwave filth:

Food splatters all over the inside of your microwave and cooks itself on after time. To easily remove this mess, place a sponge soaked in water in the microwave. Cook on high heat for 2 minutes, then allow it to sit without opening the microwave door, for 5 minutes. The filth is now ready to be wiped right off - no scrubbing - and your sponge is right there!

Microwave odours:

Keep a cup of baking soda in the microwave, between uses to keep potatoes from smelling like bacon or other unusual combinations!

Mothball substitute:

Take your leftover soap slivers and put them in a vented plastic bag. You place the bag with seasonal clothes before packing them away. Not only will the scent prevent them from moth harm, but also they'll smell great when you pull them out.

Permanent marker on carpet:

Dab a washcloth soaked in rubbing alcohol onto the marker stain. Do not rub it - just blot it - rotating the cloth to a clean spot every time.

Photos stuck together:

With a hair dryer on low, slowly melt them apart.

Cockroach problem:

Combine equal parts boric acid and sugar, mix well. Sprinkle in crevices and, if building or remodelling, between walls before putting up plaster board. Put the powder in jar lids; place lids behind the fridge and under sinks.

Laundry Tips

2009-11-27T04:12:00.002-08:00

Laundry Tips
Tips to keep your clothes clean and wash your stains away!Aha! The sweet aroma that spreads around when a gust of wind blows through the clothes that are drying out in the sun! Lovely,fresh and clean... are three words that came to my mind when I visualized the scene.

Clothes are instrumental in changing a person's psyche. Not only do nice clothes makes one feel and look good, they have other positive effects on the over all personality of a person. For example, sometimes, a crisp and well coordinated outfit may be the only difference between two candidates with equal experience and skill. A clean and neat ensemble may also help in one's personal life, because a person's outfit is one of the first things people look at while interacting with them.

If you are yet depressed about not clicking it in your professional and personal life, go ahead, dunk your sorrows in a bucket and wash them away!

Here are some laundry tips to make washing clothes a lot easier and less of a back breaking chore.

Tips for Laundry
Use salt mixed with cold water while washing dark clothes for the first time, this helps set the color.
Clothes that have "dry clean only" tags can be washed at home using a mild soap and cold water.
To prevent fading, wash and dry clothes inside out
Use a mesh bag while washing small clothes like socks. This makes it easier to sort them out while drying.
Use hot water to wash clothes that are badly soiled.
Wash delicate clothes at home by placing them in a pillow case and tying up the mouth. The bag can then be placed in the machine and washed using the regular cycle and cold water.
Read instructions carefully before putting clothes in the machine.
Do not keep clothes soaked overnight,unless they are badly soiled.
Use laundry detergent specially manufactured for that material.
Laundry Cleaning Tips

If you have a child at home you would know what I mean by stains. On the other hand, even if you don't, I am sure there are times when you yourself come back with stains on your clothes. Read on for tips which will help you get rid of them!

Blood Stains:If the stain is fresh, wash the cloth with cold water. If the stain is dry, pour hydrogen peroxide over the stain as soon as possible.
Wine stains:Absorb as much of the liquid using salt, talcum powder, baby powder or cornstarch. After this is done, launder the clothes the usual way.
Fruit Stains:Fruit stains can be got rid of using club soda, moist salt or soaking in milk before laundering.
Chocolate Stains:If the stain is still visible after laundering, mix borax with cold water to form a paste and soak the stain in it for an hour. Then launder it again!
Grass Stains;To get rid of grass stains. Mix a few drops of household ammonia with 1 teaspoon peroxide. Rub the stain with this mixture and wash with water as soon as stain disappears.
Ink Stains:Apply hairspray on the stain and wash as usual.
Lipstick Stains:To remove lipstick stains, dampen the area with liquid detergent, rinse and then wash.

Famous Homes and Housekeepers

2009-11-27T04:12:00.001-08:00

Famous Homes and Housekeepers
Cooking and housekeeping web sites spawned by TV shows and magazines make attaining domestic bliss easier than popping dinner in the microwave.The domestic industry has exploded over the past few years, creating a market for cooking, gardening, and home renovation media not seen since the 1950s. With so many chefs and lifestyle gurus attracting television viewers, it makes sense that most of them have their own web sites.

While many sites replicate the TV programs, detailed online directions facilitate whipping up your menu or decorating your home, thus saving you the bother of furiously scribbling notes as you watch the shows. If you missed an episode or forgot the instructions, you can access archives for recipes and repair tips to quickly find what you’re looking for. Now anyone can follow in the footsteps of Martha Stewart and Jacques Pepin by ordering cookbooks, equipment, and accessories online.

Not surprisingly, Reader’s Digest maintains one of the best lifestyle web sites. Here you can read articles covering everything from low-fat cooking to herbal remedies, and even receive instant recipes by compiling a list of foods you have on hand and submitting it. Voila! Who knew you could make something so scrumptious out of baking soda, pickles, and Tabasco sauce? Recipes are often grouped by category and have links to nutritional information and suggestions for alternating ingredients to create variations. You’ll also find horticultural and home remodeling advice galore, here and elsewhere on the Web. For the total interactive experience, post comments to a message board and ask the experts their opinions. You’re guaranteed to face your kitchen, garden, and living space with new gusto.

Kitchen Design basics

2009-11-24T11:55:00.001-08:00

Kitchen Design basics
A step by step guide to kitchen design basics and planning. Learn about budgeting for a renovation, making a wish list, hiring contractors and using interior designers in remodeling your kitchen.
Enlarge ImageNothing can help freshen up an older home, or help in the sale of a property or inspire your kitchen workspace like a new or remodeled kitchen. Kitchen design is becoming increasingly more important as space is rapidly growing smaller. Designing or remodeling your kitchen can be an incredibly exciting adventure but with it can come a lot of stress, and complication! Although there will always be some element of stress felt through a kitchen renovation it is possible to eliminate much of it with a solid plan. If a kitchen make-over is in your near future you should consider the following and make the best of this otherwise stressful period.

Build a Foundation

During the design process the most important question you can ask yourself is "Why do I want a new kitchen?" Is it because you are looking for more storage space? Is your space not being maximized? Does your cabinetry need to be replaced? Are your appliances in need of change as well? Is your kitchen too dark? Is your space too small or too big? Too Boring? Or simply, too much??!

By asking yourself these important questions you will have a much better idea of what you need to get out of your kitchen space.This information will become the foundation for your kitchen design plan.

Make a Wish List

Once you have your "foundation" in place it is important to ask yourself a few more questions. Now that I know what I need, what is it I want? What you would like to have in your kitchen? Give this a lot of thought because design today can incorporate special storage and space savers into your cabinetry design. Write a list of everything you couldn’t live without. This list will also become a very important guideline for you, your contractor or designer to follow. Here are a few questions to paint an example for you:

Do you want stainless steel appliances? Granite counter tops? Tiled flooring? Is it heated? Gas or electric? What will your color palette be? What kind of cabinetry will you use? What can I not live without?

Budget

How much can you afford to spend on your kitchen space? This is a big question that can affect the entire project. Kitchen design projects are rarely inexpensive so you must get out and do some pricing on items that are necessary for you to fulfill your foundation and wish list. Beware that if you plan on replacing your cabinetry it will account for more than half of your budget!!
When building your kitchen design budget you also want to include the cost of all labor (electricians, carpenters, gas technicians, plumbers, contractors etc.) and then consider the possibility of hiring a designer.
You must stay within your budget when planning a new kitchen. Account for as much as possible and add on another 20% or more just incase. Unexpected costs arise all the time in kitchen renovations and the best way to overcome it is to create a great budget. Dreaming big is one thing, but placing importance on price and affordability will ensure that you get what you are expecting and save some money for unexpected emergencies.

Time Frame

It is also very important to know when your project needs to be completed. Kitchen projects are notorious for being drawn out. Set realistic goals. The remodeling and new construction industry is booming and this can have a direct affect on your project. Many crews are working on several projects at a time so be sure to communicate your completion date with your contractor and demand a realistic response. Labor is not cheap so the shorter the time frame the higher the cost. It is also helpful to plan for you and your family to prepare meals at an alternate location or account for dining out into your budget. Remember that being inconvenienced at home can also cost you more money at the end of the day.

Designers

Hiring a designer can really help you get onto the right path sooner. These professional consultants can take care of every aspect of the design process like choosing the appropriate layout for you and your home. Coordinating color & lighting that is appropriate. Making sure all your trades and contractors are working in unison and of course ensuring that your dream kitchen becomes a reality. Designers will sit with you and go through a detailed interview process to get the best idea of what you are looking for. Their objective is to design a plan and develop a kitchen that works best for you. Your designer will combine your foundation and wish lists and weigh the pros and cons to balance them against your needs, space limitations and budget. Your designer will put together all the planning, logistical needs and contractors for your project. They can be expensive but many kitchen and bath showrooms will have in house designers working for them. You can set up an appointment or walk in and speak with someone almost immediately. This service helps the supplier get your business and they will do everything for you, from measuring your space to arranging packages for you that suit any budget.

Designers are usually well worth it, but do your research and find a design consultant with a portfolio that really connects with your own personal style.

You can also use your contractor to help you in planning out your workspace or even use a kitchen design software to personally plan out your kitchen space if you think you have what it takes!

Contractors

If you plan to do the design work yourself, make sure you use a professional contractor. There are lots of contractors out there who will undercut prices and offer you promises that are not realistic. Ask to see some portfolio work or for references. Make sure that your contractor is using accredited plumbers and electricians. Be wary of anyone willing to start immediately or who asks for cash upfront? Do not proceed with any payments unless you have an agreement with your contractor and make sure they detail all work on labor and materials. You do not want a poorly installed kitchen and any subsequent repairs will far outweigh the cost of using a professional.

A kitchen renovation can be a very stressful time, but it doesn’t have to be. Stress is no good for anyone, besides getting a new kitchen should be an exciting journey not a nightmare! Enjoy your new kitchen and let the cooking begin!!

Michael Kyle has been an Special event coordinator and hospitality expert for over 18 years. His passion for event planning and guest services helped lead to the successful launch of www.thesexykitchen.com ; a web-site dedicated to kitchen design, renovation, party planning, hospitality essentials and more. Perhaps you have a passion or hobby you’d like to write about. Discover how to turn your passion into a successful website, visit succeed from your passion.com to learn how.