Hint and Tips for the Home

2009-11-30T20:10:00.001Z

Bamboo Shades Are Ecologically Natural
By: Judith Persit

Take a trip to one of the recreational areas, national or state parks. Revel in the sounds, scents, and beauty of nature. It is not necessary to leave all of that behind when you return home. It is possible to bring some of the abundant beauty of nature indoors and use it in your window treatments. Woven wood bamboo shades bring the beauty of nature indoors, without harming the environment.

Harvested and developed from one of the world's fastest growing trees, bamboo is a natural product. Bamboo trees grow up to four feet within thirty days. Because of this rapid growth, consumers who choose bamboo shades can bring this natural beauty into their homes while still feeling comfortable ecologically.

The pieces that comprise bamboo shades are woven together in a traditional style, which gives them a natural appearance. The process is similar to that used in weaving fabrics, but in this case the "fabric" is a conglomeration of differently colored bamboo reeds and tubes that combine to give that woodsy look.

Something else that adds to the natural look of bamboo shades is the way in which they are stained. Many wood products employ stain and colors to deliberately make each piece look the same. Bamboo shades are the complete opposite in that they are prepared and stained in a manner that preserves their true nature. Bamboo has an inconsistent finish because of the rough edges, hard grain, and large bumps and joints, making the application of a uniform colorant coating very difficult. Because of this, each stick will possess its own completely unique appearance and color.

Naturally, the preferences of consumers greatly influence which designs sell best. The choices consumers make reflect their color preferences. Although bamboo shades come in several white patterns, they are the least popular color of woven wood shades. Although white is the most popular color for shutters, shades, and wood blinds, it is the least popular color for bamboo shades. It is evident that consumers purchase these shades based on their beauty and natural appearance, because bamboo shades are more popular in darker, natural colors as opposed to other products in this group.

Because we have emphasized the natural look, let's review what the impact is of using these beautiful trees to make bamboo shades. In sharp contrast to the majority of other wood based products, bamboo renews itself extremely quickly. A bamboo tree can grow as much as four feet in 30 days, but their rapid growth is only one factor. They also spread aggressively, so new trees are soon available for harvest. So there is no need to feel like you are having a negative impact on nature by bringing bamboo into your home, because that is just not true. Bamboo is practically the perfect natural resource. The wood utilized to manufacture each bamboo shade is replaced faster than it is used, and new methods are being developed to grow additional bamboo, even in places where it does not normally grow.

Revel in the peace and beauty of the nature experience. A bamboo shade will help you bring the beauty of nature indoors. Decorating with these shades allows you to enjoy a natural look, as you bring a part of the great outdoors into your home. Consumers do not have to feel guilty about choosing bamboo shades, since the material used is quickly renewable and therefore does not have a negative environmental impact.

Judith Persit is an qualified interior decorator with a focus on window coverings. Judith writes about bamboo shades. Learn more regarding shades at her website.

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2009-10-05T18:00:00.004+01:00

How to Safely Wash Stuffed Animals

By: TabithaC

Stuffed animals are one of children's most favorite toys. These fun animals are great to have around, and sometimes go everywhere with your youngster. Since these animals are around for almost every event, even they get dirty and will need an occasional bath.So how do you keep stuffed animals clean? Well here are some tips to keep them clean and in great shape:

First and most importantly read the care instructions that come with the stuffed animal on their label. Also take note of all materials the stuffed animal is made with. Retailers of stuffed animals never personally recommend washing stuffed animals in the washer or dryer. What is highly recommended is to spray on a mild all-purpose cleanser or simply use soap and sponge it clean with a little water. Then leave your stuffed animal in the sun to dry. However, many parents really feel like they need to wash stuffed animals in a washing machine to make them completely clean. So here are more tips if you desire to do so:

First, make sure none of your stuffed animals have the following before putting it in the washing machine:* If a stuffed animal has excelsior, styrene foam, or any other form of foam material, such as foam beads, they must not be washed in the machine.

* If a stuffed animal has joints, or cardboard or any other form of stiffeners, do not put into a machine or they can be destroyed.

* If a stuffed animal has a sound box, please do not put this into a machine or any other form of major water.

* If a stuffed animal is really large, very firm, or has a lot of stuffing please remove the stuffing by cutting a 5-6 inch area in the bottom of the animal. This is important because the stuffing will most likely shift and cause the animal to lose its shape. Plus washing this much stuffing will take a very, very long time to dry. After cleaning, sew up the area and make sure no stuffing will fall out.After reading the above and your stuffed animal does not fit into the first three categories, you may wash your animal in a washing machine. Before putting a stuffed animal into a washing machine, please make sure there are no loose items, such as button noses or eyes. Please also check to make sure that there are no openings where stuffing can come out, if so please sew up these areas securely first. Before putting the stuffed animal into a washing machine, find a big enough pillow (or a sheet for big stuffed animals) and fasten all ends with rubber bands, safety pins or string. Please make sure all ends are secure to protect the fur of the stuffed animal. Plus it will keep any loose stuffing inside the pillow or sheet in case any falls out and can be re-installed.

After placing the stuffed animal into the washing machine, please only set the most delicate cycle to be washed. Fabric softener can be added and will make a softer and fluffier stuffed animal. Please be careful when washing other items with the stuffed animal, that there are no items that may bleed onto the stuffed animal making it a different color in the end. Also, if your stuffed animal is wearing clothes, please remove them and wash separately. This is important because the color of the stuffed animal's fur can sometimes bleed onto the clothes they are wearing.

Tips on How to Clean Stuffed Animals without Using a Washing Machine:

* A great way to keep those precious stuffed animals fresh is to give it a dry bath with baking soda. Just sprinkle the baking soda on the stuffed animal. After 20 minutes simply brush the baking soda off. You may also use baby powder. This process will get smells out and clean off any surface dirt.

* For stuffed animals that have been badly stained or soiled, use a soft scrub brush with an all purpose cleaner.

* For stuffed animals with plastic parts that have spots or stains, you can use rubbing alcohol to remove them.

* For stuffed animals that have dust mites you can do the following:

Place your stuffed animal in a plastic bag. Then place it in a freezer overnight. If you have a big stuffed animal or do not have room in the freezer, you can wait to place it outside on a very cold night. The temperature has to be below freezing. The next day, remove the stuffed animal and vacuum gently but thoroughly.

Tips on How to Dry a Stuffed Animal:When you have washed your stuffed animal or somehow the stuffed animal has become very wet, please never use a clothes dryer. This can damage the fur of the animal and can sometimes never be repaired. Please don't risk loosing your child's favorite animal, instead do the following:

The safest way is to let the stuffed animal air dry. This could take up to several days. However, sometimes you need that stuffed animal dry as soon as possible. So you can use a hair dryer, but be careful to not get too close to the animal's fur and dry on the coolest setting available.

When a small amount liquid has spilled on a stuffed animal simply shake off loose liquid. Then pat dry with a towel or sponge.

With the care provided above, your clean stuffed animals will provide you and your child many years of fun and happiness. Good luck!If your child loves stuffed animals, they may also love to play fun, free, family friendly online animal games at http://www.plushquest.com/.
The author works for a big stuffed animal site, MyBigPlush.com and helps maintain a fun, free, and family friendly online animal game site, PlushQuest.com.
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2009-10-05T17:59:00.003+01:00

Find Out More About Solar Energy Home

By: Merlin700 Metsar700

Find Out More About Solar Energy Home Using solar energy nowadays saves you a lot of money that you end up paying on electricity bills, etc. The usage and demand of the renewable energy is increasing day by day. People are now searching for alternative power sources that prove to be affordable and environment-friendly. The solar power is a good solution for saving the energy cost.

Sun is the ultimate and infinite source of energy. The solar energy can be used again and again. Solar energy is a low maintenance and more reliable power source. The solar energy systems made with solar panels are used in residential, commercial and power plant applications. Solar energy has replaced traditional forms of energy in usage. The hydrogen in the Sun’s core burns to release huge amount of energy. The sun radiates this energy in the form of heat and light. All the other energy forms and sources on earth are indirectly derived from the sun, like fossil fuels which are formed by the dead and decay of the ancient plants that grow by photosynthesis.There are various options that provide solar energy like photovoltaic systems and solar cells. Solar power is used for providing electricity, cooking gas and cooling and heating of the air and water.Before buying one should visit the renewable energy fairs, read and research, view different websites and compare prices of the products like solar power panels and systems and various other solar powered products and projects. There are various products that provide solar power for consumption in home and business.

The solar energy products generate electricity and help in heating water. There are photovoltaic shingles for roof that provide electricity and look like tiles. In summers, one can buy solar attic vents and fans for cooling his/her home. The Solar heaters and solar coolers are used at large scale in commercial applications and also to heat swimming pools. The solar pool covers heat the pool water. The consumer can buy solar products for the garden solar fountains and birdbaths, solar garden accents, and outdoor solar lights and also various solar lighting products for decks and walks. In the kitchen, the solar ovens and solar cookers can also be used.

The Solar home products have more initial installation cost than its powered competitors or some other products. But after one time purchasing, it will be free of any electricity bills. The solar water heater can save unto 30 percent of the electricity bill and the initial installation cost of the heater will be recovered within three years.

There are also various solar rechargeable household devices like solar radio, solar chargers for the cell phone and bipod, solar rechargeable flashlights and lanterns, solar car cells and solar rechargeable batteries. And solar flashlights are also very useful in emergency situations.The major advantage of the solar energy and its products is that it is free of charge after it has been installed. Also, the sun energy or solar energy is environment friendly as it doesn’t have any waste products and its batteries only need maintenance. But it has its own set of disadvantages as the consumer won’t get enough energy on a cloudy day when there will be less energy emission from the sun.
Merlin Metsar is author of this article on solar power system. Find more information about solar power system here.
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2009-10-05T17:57:00.003+01:00

The advantages of solar panels

By: Patrick32 Thona32

The advantages of solar panels

There are two types of solar panels that you could get.

If you are a residential customer you will be able to purchase the residential solar panel, these are smaller than the commercial solar panel that are made for businesses that run thousands of megawatts of power every month. These days there are many ways of saving the planet from pollution caused by producing electricity or coal or fuel from oil. To find out more about the residential or the commercial solar systems you need to find the solar panel manufacture for more details. Once you have bought you solar power system from the solar wholesaler and have done your solar power installation through a certified solar energy company you will have a solar home and are one step closer to helping the planet. We all want to get rid of the electric companies, we all want to have a cleaner planet and save the ozone layer from giving way altogether. And there is a simple way to do this. In many countries the governments are offering a solar incentive for each solar module that is installed in your home. If you are thinking about what a solar module is, well it is very simple, a module is each panel within a panel that makes up the solar system that you use to create renewable energy. But we will be looking at the electricity part of it, though we will probably name a few of the other ways we could save our earth from disaster and the big electric and oil companies. The reason it is not easy is that there is electricity involved, so you will have to be careful, also make sure that the person installing it for you know what he or she is doing, or your could potentially out your family in harm’s way, and no one wants to do that. Make sure you get credentials from the worker that will install solar panel and the stores name and number he works for, that way you will be able to check up on him and his background. You could also transform your car into a fully equipped renewable energy fuel system. So you will not be consuming deadly petrol and emitting the deadly gasses killing our planet, remember that you can make a difference.

What you could do first and foremost to save electricity and to save the planet is to get a solar panel or two installed in your home. It is not a really easy thing to do, so you will have to get a professional to hook it up for you. Once your installation is done you will be able to get all the information you need from your contractor solar power designer. And it is as simple as that. If you want to help the world in other ways you could always install enough panels to power you whole house and completely cut yourself off the power grid.
Patrick Thona is author of this article on Solar Panel. Find more information about Solar System here.
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2009-10-05T17:54:00.004+01:00

What to Consider When Choosing a Mattress

By: Nick Kakolowski

Tossing and turning in bed night after night is not an activity most individuals look forward to. For many, avoiding this predicament can become an obsession. Knowing the kind of mattress you are purchasing and its features and limitations can help prepare you for what to expect during the night. When it comes to mattresses, there is not one "best" kind of mattress for all individuals. Instead, the goal of mattress shopping is to figure out what is "best" for you.

There are five primary types of mattresses:

innerspring, air mattress, foam mattress, water mattress and futon mattress.

Each of these types of mattresses has distinct features, making them different from one another, not necessarily better or worse, just different.

Innerspring mattresses are constructed with layers of foam, wool and other similar fabrics on the top of the mattress’s interior. Below those layers is a complex system of coiling wire. As a general rule, firmness of the mattress is defined by the thickness of the coil (the coil’s gauge). The lower the gauge number, the thicker the coil, and more firm the bed. There is however, an exception to this general rule. The exception exists within the way the coils are connected. Most innerspring mattresses are constructed with a significant enough number of coils to keep the bed firm, and prevent sagging. However, if the coils are not connected correctly, even the thickest coils will not be very firm. The interconnecting wires in a mattress have a great effect on firmness. This information, however, is very rarely published by manufacturers. Therefore the general rule of thumb for an innerspring mattress should be gauge number.

Air beds have been used in hospitals and nursing homes for many years. These beds are designed to provide pressure free comfort and support, and thus have been favored by these institutions. In recent years these mattresses have made their way into the commercial market. Air beds separate themselves in terms of comfort, because they do something that innerspring and foam mattresses cannot do. All mattresses absorb body weight to create comfort, but air mattresses actually displace the weight over the entire bed. This makes them very adaptable to the particular sleeper.

Foam mattresses share the adaptability of air mattresses, and do so due to the style of their construction. Foam beds are constructed as basically as the name implies: they are made out of layers of foam. Two specific types of foam, natural and synthetic, are used in construction of foam mattresses. Natural foam has tiny holes which provide ventilation, and helps to keep the user cool and comfortable. Synthetic foam is flexible enough to be used in adjustable, molding beds, but lacks the ventilation of natural foam. This can create unnecessary and unwelcomed heat over the course of the night. Again, there is not a better or worse type of foam; instead the best foam mattress is a matter of personal preference.Waterbeds were, without a doubt, a trend of seventies and eighties. These beds use water layered within either a soft or hard side to comfort the user. In most cases, hard sides have been used. These sides keep the mattress in proper shape and form. In soft-sided waterbeds, the mattress is a hybrid of a regular mattress and a hard-sided water mattress. These mattresses have chambers within them surrounded by foam and other fabric padding. These chambers contain the water and provide comfort.

Both hard and soft sided waterbeds have two primary features. The first is that they are safe and relatively easy to heat. This can make them very comfortable, especially for people living in cooler climates. Waterbeds are also beneficial for those who suffer from allergies because the inside is filled primarily with water, making it harder for dust mites to be absorbed.

The final style of mattress is the futon. Futons are best known for their popularity with teenagers, college students and those who live in small apartments because of their ability to be folded in half and made into a couch. This dual function goes hand-in-hand with their low price to make them a very budget friendly option. The mattress is constructed in essentially the same way as an innerspring mattress, just without the springs. Futons tend to be very heavy, and rather firm.Buying a mattress is a very important decision. For the most part, mattresses are only replaced once every seven to ten years. Personal preference is crucial when buying a mattress, but there is more to the process. One must also be careful to choose a quality made and form fitting box-spring. Placing a new mattress on an old, shabby box-spring can ruin your investment. When it comes time to choose you mattress be sure to get a fitting box-spring to accompany it and rest easy knowing you made the "best" choice possible.
About Author:Nick Kakolowski is a freelance writer who writes about topics concerning home improvement and decorating, often focusing on specific topics such as Mattresses

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2009-10-05T17:50:00.001+01:00

Popular Options to Heat Your Home

By: Stephanie Larkin
As the cost of fuel continues to rise, paying attention to the condition of one’s heating system is becoming more important. Homeowners are looking to supplement traditional systems and increase efficiency, and there are many companies offering solutions. However, there is no one-size-fits-all way of reducing the cost of having a toasty home in the winter. Consumers who are looking into a new winter heating strategy should carefully weigh their options in order to find the right combination of technologies for their needs. Improving Existing Heating Systems

Even astronomical fuel prices are little incentive to totally revamp a home’s heating system. Most homeowners choose to improve or supplement existing structures in order to increase efficiency. Keeping up with regular maintenance issues, like changing filters and cleaning ducts, will help performance. The most cost effective option is to add insulation and seal problem areas. Systems that employ a thermostat are often thrown off-balance because of heat leakage. Properly sealing vents, doors, and windows and adding more insulation in the attic are simple weekend projects that can improve the performance of the heating system without much investment. Others more expensive improvements can more drastically affect the heating bill. New windows can prevent further loss of heat in the winter and help stop cold air. Some homes can even be retrofitted for more environmentally friendly fuel options. Solar panels can help offset the energy used by the existing heating system. In addition to providing electricity, solar energy can be harnessed in order to provide passive heat. Homes that catch a significant amount of sunlight can be designed to route the heat through the house.

.One of the most drastic solutions is to replace old heating system components. A typical furnace only has a life span of around 10 years. Opting to go ahead and install a high-efficiency model may seem expensive, but it can significantly lower annual fuel bills.

Adding Additional Heaters Even the best heating system may not be suited to run all of the time. Many homeowners choose to use smaller appliances like stoves or space heaters to avoid heating their entire home. Others use these options instead of larger systems. These can be semi-permanent or completely portable and run off of a variety of fuels. Here are the most popular choices:
Fireplaces are built into many homes for extra heat. Before electricity was popularized, the fireplace was the home’s only source of heat. Grand estates had them in every room. Today, modern homes are most likely have one in the family room or other public space. They can be fitted to use gas or wood for fuel. Since fireplaces feature an open flame, they are more dangerous than other heating options. A clean chimney and proper ventilation are imperative to keep smoke and carbon monoxide from building up in the house.
Stoves can be free standing or built into the home. Unlike a fireplace, they are designed to burn their fuel efficiently, and for this reason, are less likely to need a full chimney. They can also be designed as inserts to occupy the same place as a fireplace or free-standing unit that can be placed into just about any room. Popular options include gas, wood-burning, and pellet stoves. Pellet stoves are very popular because they use renewable and inexpensive fuel made of sawdust and provide near unmatchable efficiency.
Space heaters are the most versatile option for heating a space. They come in all shapes and sizes. Small combustion heaters that use gas or liquid fuel are not portable because they need to sit against an exterior wall. However, they are easier to install than stoves or a fireplace, because they only require a small vent. Electric heaters are completely portable. They use electricity to heat coils, so they can be placed anywhere there is a power outlet. This makes them the most convenient and least expensive option. There are even electric models designed to provide heat to entire rooms. However, these electric appliances are not necessarily the most efficient way to heat a small area. This is dependent on the size of the area, the model, and the fuel type.When developing a heating strategy for the winter, homeowners should carefully inspect their main heating system for problems. Some simple cleaning or added insulation may improve efficiently significantly. Supplemental devices should be chosen according to the amount of heat the home needs and the best fuel option. Remember that a more permanent solution may cost more, but can lead to more savings in the future. Finally, be careful to conserve energy by turning installing an automatic thermostat and responsibly managing fuel.
About Author:Stephanie Larkin is a freelance writer who writes about topics concerning green energy and alternative heat sources such as Pellet Stoves

2009-10-05T17:47:00.004+01:00

What are bedbugs/where do bedbugs occur?

By: Leslie Leslie

What are bedbugs/where do bedbugs occur?

Although it may seem as if you're sleeping alone, you could be snuggling with a nest of bed bugs. Bed bugs are tiny, wingless insects that feed solely upon the blood of warm-blooded animals, including humans. Bed bugs and their relatives have evolved as nest parasites. Certain kinds inhabit bird nests and bat roosts and await the return of their hosts; others have adapted well to living in the ‘nests’ (homes) of people. Bed bugs and their relatives occur nearly worldwide. Bed bugs became relatively scarce during the latter part of the 20th century, but their populations have resurged in recent years, particularly throughout parts of North America, Europe, and Australia. Hatchling bed bugs are about the size of a poppy seed, and adults grow to about 1/4 of an inch in length. From top to bottom they are oval in shape and they benefit from having a flattened body and six legs. Females live as long as one year, while males don't live quite as long. Females can lay up to five eggs per day and several hundred in a lifetime. Just after molting, their color ranges from nearly white or a light tan to a deep brown or burnt orange. The host’s blood may appear as a dark red or black mass within the bug’s body. These bugs are sometimes mistaken for ticks or small cockroaches. Bed bugs are most active in the middle of the night particularly around 3 or 4 am, but when hungry, they will venture out during the day to seek a host. Because they never develop wings, bed bugs cannot fly. When disturbed, bed bugs actively seek shelter in dark cracks and crevices. Their flattened bodies allow them to conceal themselves in areas such as curtains, corners inside dressers or other furniture, cracks in wallpaper, or in the spaces of wicker furniture, alarm clocks, and even telephones. They are most abundant in rooms where people sleep, and they generally hide nearest the bed or other furniture used for sleeping. Favored hiding sites include the bed frame, mattress and box spring. Clutter around the room offers additional sites for these bugs to hide, and increases the difficulty in eliminating bed bugs once they have become established. Cast skins of bed bugs are sometimes discovered in bed linens or around the bed frame. Although such a finding confirms that bed bugs had been present at one time, it does not confirm that any continue to infest the residence. Therefore, it is important to inspect carefully for live, crawling bed bugs. Because many other kinds of small brown bugs may be discovered, it is critical to ensure that the bugs are correctly identified. While it is said bed bugs only live in unsanitary conditions, they can thrive in clean, sanitary areas too. Crowded living quarters also cater to bed bugs. Travelers can sometimes run into bed bugs during visits in hotels or other countries. While bed bugs feed every seven to 10 days, they can still survive for months without feeding, so abandoned homes or buildings can still be home to these parasites.
Leslie Leyland is author of this article on bed bugs . Find more information about bed bugs

preventatives here.
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2009-10-05T17:22:00.002+01:00

The Vacuum Cleaner That Fits You

By: Andrew9 Washington9

Ever since vacuum cleaners were invented in the 19th century, using an air pump to create a partial vacuum to suck up dust and dirt, there has been an abundance of brands out there. Trying to choose one which will fit your needs, especially if you don’t know much about the product is as difficult as trying to manually clean your house the old fashioned way, with brooms and dustpans. Let us attempt to make sense of your vacuum cleaner shopping. First of all, get the best kind based on your kind of flooring or carpeting. If you have a large floor space, get models with floor attachments that use brushes and/or uprights with metal bottom plates. The height should be able to be adjusted low enough for the flooring. Make sure that the metal plates and wheels will not scratch your floors. Otherwise, you’d end up with a very clean, but damaged floor. If your house has more carpet than flooring, choose a vacuum that has enough suction power, especially if the carpet has deep pile styles. Unfortunately, this can consume a lot of energy, so if your house doesn’t have lots of carpet areas, stick with the one that will cause the least energy consumption, keeping your house clean and helping save the environment at the same time. If you have long hair or the people in your house keep shedding body hairs all over the place, choose one that has a stainless steel brush roller with ball bearings. Of course it will make the unit heavier, but that beats having to sweep your house every 2 hours because it looks like a beauty salon, with hair lying all around .If your goal is to keep the dust out of the air, which is actually one of the primary goals of a vacuum cleaner, get a bag rather than a bagless one. The bag model has a paper or fabric bag that allows air to pass through but traps all dust and debris in the bag. The bagless models, all the dust and debris goes to a container and a reusable filter. You need to test the air-tightness of the vacuum first before buying, especially if you’re suffering from asthma. One way is to vacuum for a bit with a floor model and then see how much dust has collected on the outside of the unit. Another important thing that is not related to its features or functionality, but is essential to your peace of mind is how easy it would be to assemble or disassemble. Make sure that they're easy to assemble, that they stay together and are airtight during use, and that you can still disassemble them with a minimum of effort. If you live in a small apartment or space, it would be better to buy a small hand held vacuum, rather than a big full one. It’s more energy efficient and you don’t need to lug a big vacuum cleaner around for every small spill or mess around your limited space. Make an inventory of all the parts that will require replacement, how often the replacement should occur and how much it will cost you annually. It will cost you, but at least you don’t have to buy a new one every year or so.
Andrew Washington can help you to prices and specification on laundry appliances including tumble dryers and washing machines from different manufacturers and high street stores online.
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2009-09-22T16:38:00.002+01:00

Top tips for keeping your home tidy By: Bani

You’ve got so much tidying to do, so little time. So what’s a person to do? You can either lower your standards or just ignore the mess, or you can think smart and keep your house tidy with little effort. Unfortunately there is no way to avoid housework. But you can keep your house clean and sparkling in less than 30 minutes a day, if you just get organized. The very first thing you need to do is gather all your cleaning supplies and place them in one spot, organized neatly. I do mean “all” your cleaning supplies, the glass cleaner, the furniture polish, the wax, the cleaner, the dusting cloth – all of it!
Next organize it in groups that make sense as to how you would use it. So if you’re going to do the windows you just have to grab all your window supplies, or if you’re cleaning the bathroom, you’d grab all the bathroom supplies. Use the old KISS formula – “Keep It Simple Stupid.” Don’t make extra work for yourself.
Next place a clothes basket in every room where dirty clothes might land. Then train your household members to drop their dirty clothes in the hamper, and not on the floor. If it’s in their room, it should be as easy to use as the floor. If you’ve got kids, get creative, with a hamper that’s their favorite cartoon character or action figure. Make it fun!
Assign duties to other members of your house. Kids, even younger ones, can be good helpers. Give them tasks that they are capable of completing. As an incentive you can reward them. You can take them to a matinee or give them a treat if they complete their chores. If they get an allowance make them work for it. No kids, then you’re on your own, unless you have a modern day husband who participates in the household chores. Be logical in your cleaning. There are two strategies that work well. With the first, you do a thorough cleaning once or twice a week. You choose a task, and then start at one end of the house and move completely through the house until that task is done. Then start your next task. You’ll save valuable time by not jumping from one task to the other. The second strategy is favored by working woman and men, because it takes less than 30 minutes every day, and you don’t have to look forward to cleaning house on your days off. With this strategy you do one room at a time, and set time limits as to how much time you’ll spend in each room..
So let’s say the kitchen gets 8 minutes, Bathroom gets 5, bedrooms get 5 each, and on and on, depending on how many rooms you have. You can adjust the 30 minutes up or down, but it should never be more than 45 minutes. In the kitchen, wipe down the stove, fridge and dispose of any food that needs to be tossed. Wipe down the counter tops and the sink. Empty the dishwasher.
Sweep the floor and give it a quick mopping. In the bathroom pick up dirty laundry and toss in the hamper, wipe down the tub, shower, and sink. Clean the toilet last. Mop the floor if it needs it. Bedrooms just need the beds made, dirty laundry picked up, and clothes put away. A quick dusting and vacuuming every third day is sufficient. Tidy the living room, pickup books and “stuff” that are lying around. Wipe off tables. Dusting and vacuuming every second or third day is sufficient. By doing laundry amongst other activities, you’ll save yourself more time. Throw a load in while you’re watching TV or making super. Fit it into other activities, so you’re not faced with ten loads at the end of the week.
Get organized and cleaning your house will become a breeze. You’ll have less stress worrying about it and more free time to enjoy the things you like to do!
For More Free Resources visit www.thedesignbuild.com
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2009-09-10T14:15:00.002+01:00

Clean Springing: Spring Cleaning Like You Mean It

By: Jennifer Tankersley
Something about the phrase “Spring Cleaning” doesn’t sit well with me. The concept is good and right. In spring, all of nature is waking up from its winter hibernation, shaking off the old, preparing for the new. It is natural for humans to feel an obligation or even a desire to do likewise. The word “Spring” is not the problem. In the phrase “Spring Cleaning”, spring is used as a description of another word – an illusion. The focus falls on the noun or the object that just happens to also be the word for a much-despised action. Must I say it? Cleaning is absolutely a necessary evil. There is not a living thing that does not perform some type of cleaning practice. Plants and animals clean with nary a complaint. They simply know what must be done and do it. Human beings, on the other hand, have built for ourselves such a complicated nest of rooms and possessions, that all we can do is struggle to maintain a healthy existence. That is why I have hereby decided that I will from now on refer to “Spring Cleaning” as “Clean Springing.” This phrase paints a completely different picture but still gets the message across. The word “Clean” as an adjective delivers images filled with white linens flapping in the breezy sunshine, sounds of children’s happy laughter, and smells of freshness and warmth. While one definition of the word “Springing” is certainly leaping, a far more appropriate definition says it is being suddenly released from a coiled or constrained position. So in other words, clean springing is the act of propelling out of a period of inactivity with the intention of surrounding ourselves with fresh and wholesome sensations. Of course, this will still involve washing windows, but think of all the sunshine that action will allow in. You may still have closets to organize, but imagine how prepared you will be for a trip to the beach or a spontaneous weekend away. Consider how many fresh-picked berries and summer produce your refrigerator could hold once you’ve emptied it out and thoroughly cleaned its shelves. Delight in the feeling that a freshly mopped floor has to newly naked feet. A great advantage of clean springing is that it is not limited to one season of the year. Clean Springing should be considered an act that redeems us from the bondage of our current inhibitions. Clean Springing doesn’t have to refer to an entire house. It could easily be used to describe the need to clear off a table that has never been used for anything other than a catchall for odds and ends; it can also mean an opportunity to turn the spare bedroom into an office or nursery. We owe it to ourselves to oblige our natural impulses to start fresh and move forward.

Jennifer Tankersley is the creator ListPlanIt.com where you can find over 300 lists and planning pages including cleaning schedules, daily to do lists, grocery lists, and holiday/party planning to put your world in order and also of List Mama Blog: Lists of Lists for List-Lovin’ Mamas.

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2009-09-10T14:04:00.002+01:00

Lush without the Fuss!

By: BloomingArtificial
Who can deny the calming, inspiring effect of a house filled with beautiful plants? They instantly turn drab to dreary, dull to dramatic. The main reason homeowners choose not to buy plants isn’t because they don’t like them but because they can’t handle the upkeep. How often do I water them? What happens if they start to turn yellow or small insects start living on them? Who waters them when I’m away? Where do I place them if the room doesn’t get much daylight?If this sounds familiar, your answer will probably lie in buying artificial plants. These have come a long way in a short time and the resemblance to the real thing is remarkable. They are of course 100% maintenance and watering free and are now manufactured colour fast dyes helping to maintain vibrancy whether in the sun or out of it.

Thankfully for asthma and allergy sufferers artificial plants are pollen free.
Fresh flowers, madam? Now you don’t need to be living the life of Hollywood celebrity to enjoy a beautiful bouquet on a daily basis. Hand crafted and artisan designed for maximum appeal silk flowers use only the highest-quality silk floral components in every arrangement. You can choose from lavish centerpieces, focals and stems.
Bamboo is one of the most fashionable interior design statements you can make. For chic Japanese or Asian inspired indoor spaces this is a must. The good news is that by using actual bark from real bamboo plants, rich green leaves (silk) and a life-like wispy appearance you can have all the cool beauty of real bamboo in your home without any of the maintenance.
Mix and match! Artificial plants when mixed with real plants indoors allow a seamless almost indistinguishable bounty of botanical beauty. For example, in one area of a room near a window that receives direct sunlight you may choose to have a real plant but nearby, in a shaded area you can opt for an artificial. Similarly you choose your main plant that would otherwise require a lot of maintenance to be artificial, small, less demanding plants could be real or course vice-verse. The end result is the same: turning your indoor, design desert into a blooming oasis of inspiration.You can literally cover the planet with a vast selection of faux plants and flowers. From Madras to Manchester, Barbados to Bangkok, luxuriate in the rich foliage of the silk ficus or drift away with the exotic artificial palms all made with the finest silk greenery and foliages available. Allergen-free silk trees and flowers range in colour, size, shape and species to suit any home or office decor. It’s your chance to be lush without the fuss!
What to Do Next...If you have any queries regarding the above information or looking for beautiful and realistic artificial plants & trees in UK, please contact us at info@bloomingartificial.com. or kindly visit us on http://www.bloomingartificial.com/.
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fridge

2009-09-03T08:51:00.004+01:00

I am by no means a neat person.

This humorous list is from my own vast personal experience with the messes. You may have your own.

However, if you are organisationally challenged, you WILL relate to this humorous top ten type list!

I am an official wannabe neat freak. Unfortunately, all you will get from me is humor, support, and insights into the mind of an organisationally challenged work at home, homeschooling, overworked, and underpaid Mom of two.

OK...so when these things are goin' on in el' fridgeO...well, it may be time to...ya know...

* You have some old fruit that could be donated to science for a new type of penicillin

* Your magnets have gone on strike.

* Your Baking Soda is fuzzy.

* There is something in there with a hairdo.

* Your milk is still in a glass container from the 50's.

* There is a hardened mass at the bottom that may be used to cut diamonds.

* You would rather use the fast food ketchup packs than what's in your ketchup bottle.

* You swear that something is living in the veggie bin.

* Your lunch meat has become jerky...and you didn't plan it.

* You can smell the contents of your fridge from the living room.

* When there is a package in there that says cheddar, but you swear it's limburger.

* And...when what you thought were brussel sprouts are actually icicles.

I hope this made you laugh and encourages you to clean your refrigerator! It can be quite a daunting task, however, once you get it clean, you will be happier! Plus, you will reduce the risk of getting any food born illnesses!I would love for you to stop by ThouShaltClean.com and submit your own humorous tales. However, I must warn you, if you are naturally neat, you may not fit in to the chaos!

Copyright © Lara Velez, ThouShaltClean.com
Lara Velez is a Christian wife and homeschooling Mother of two. She is a published writer, successful web designer (designedbylara.com), and the owner of ThouShaltClean.com (thoushaltclean.com), a site for the organizationally challenged. She also enjoys cooking, writing, scrapbooking, and web design.

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clear clutter

2009-09-02T20:08:00.005+01:00

Everyone could use a little help with their closet problems every now and then. The closet seems to have a life of its own when it just suddenly grows on you. Suddenly, you can’t find anything!

Every little thing you own seems to have piled on top of each other, creating a chaotic mass of fabric, shoes, etc. When this happens, it is time for closet organization. Closet storage organizers are the answer to these organizational problems (and your sanity as well).

Organizing closets is a breeze with the variety of options available, like hanging closet organizers, wardrobe organizers, shoe organizers, and other closet accessories that can make a neat closet.

One way to organize closets is to use shelves. These can help you segregate your shirts, blouses, or bottoms or to store clothes that are currently out of season. Shelves in closets can help you store clothes you do not use often and can help keep them neat and proper.You can choose from any of these canvas closet organizers that serve as hanging closet organizers.

Aside from organizing adult closets, you can also use some of these closet organization ideas for those of children. Some have adjustable shelving flexible enough to let you organize different clothing according to type or colour or season.

Hanging closet organizers are easy to set up and are available in colors that can match your closet. If you are keen in calming the chaos inside your bedroom closet, you should consider hanging these soon. The good thing about these kinds of closet shelving systems is that some have their own lighting. These are ideal closet storage systems that can help you choose what to wear even in dark closets.

Adding a couple of shelves and hanging a shoe organizer can help you steer away from any closet troubles. You will end up with extra space once everything has been folded nicely and kept in shelves. The extra space saved will probably surprise you, especially if you have constantly been worried about running out of room.

Pack rats and very neat people can benefit from these closet storage solutions since their closets can be miraculously transformed into a very organized box where one can find anything fast. To help you choose your closet organizer system and to help you get organized properly here are some tips:

• Open your closet and see the real situation. Evaluate and assess which items need to be organized to make room for others.

• Check for extra shelves if you need more room.

• Take measurements of your closet so you will be able to purchase the right sizes of hanging closet organizers. This is especially useful if you will shop online.

• Take that hamper off the closet because it is eating up much space. Instead, buy a mesh liner, which you can easily pull out during laundry day.

• Segregate the items inside your closet. Check which ones you can keep in the shelves and which ones you can display more visibly because you are likely to use them more often. Take out anything you haven’t used for a long time or those you intend never to use again

There are ways to get your www.lorest.com/closetorganizer/seventeen_closet_organizer.aspx”>closet organized. In time, you will find that there is a great advantage to a neat closet. See your options at www.lorest.com/closetorganizer/”>www.lorest.com/closetorganizer/.
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2009-09-02T19:58:00.002+01:00

TOOL BOX

It is important to first consider the importance of getting quality tools before buying any tools. You should only buy quality tools. While they are more expensive, in the long run they will be worth it.

Quality tools will last longer, and work better.

A well-made drill will drill straighter.

A well-made screwdriver will tighten faster.

Although this may mean that you only buy your tools incrementally, it is still a better plan than trying to get all of your tools in one shot by purchasing inferior materials.

The first tool you should buy for your toolbox is a screwdriver. A screwdriver will come in handy on almost any project around the house, from replacing your telephone jacks to building a that new addition you’ve always dreamed about. If you can afford it, get a screwdriver with a full set of detachable tips (including Phillips heads).

After purchasing a screwdriver set, you should look for a good quality 16-ounce hammer. It doesn’t matter if the handle is made of wood or fibreglass. All that’s important is that you need to make sure it is comfortable in your hand and feels substantial (assuming, of course, that you will be using it for something more taxing than hanging picture frames).

The final basic tool you need for your toolbox is a set of adjustable wrenches. Most sets usually come with three different sizes, and will work on almost any size of nut or bolt you are likely to encounter around the house.

Other small tools you can fit into your toolbox are a level, tape measure, utility knife, pliers, and flash light (always useful when working in out of the way corners).Taking Your Tools beyond the Basic ToolboxYou can start expanding into more substantial tools once you have your three basic tools covered and have started to fill your toolbox with smaller gadgets.

Other larger tools you will find useful to have around the house include a saw, a level, a planer, and a set of paintbrushes.

The first non-toolbox tool you should buy is an electric drill. If you’ve ever had to put screws in by hand, you will immediately appreciate the power and convenience of using a drill. A good drill will help you put in screws effortlessly and accurately. When buying a drill, be sure to compare the prices of normal power drills with cordless power drills. You will likely find that the difference is not as great as you thought it would be. If that is the case, it is strongly recommended that you cough up the extra cash to get the cordless drill. You will be amazed at how much easier drilling will be when you are not constantly getting tangled up in the extension cord!

Mary Amos is a DIY expert who regularly gets out her toolbox to 'odd job' around the house. Click on DIY Tools to find out more.

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Gardening Tips

2009-08-26T10:17:00.001+01:00

Some hints and tips today to help you garden flourish.

Wonderful plant food (20g) Epsom salts dissolved in (550ml) lukewarm water.

Banana skins & egg shells buried will supply vitamins & minerals for roots

Garlic grown near roses is suppose to keep away greenfly

Eggshells ground finely are a good fertiliser, also a slug deterrent.

Cover compost heap with black bin liner weighed down for the quickest conditions for rotting.

Hold on to rotten nettles. Leave in water for 2-3 weeks for a strong smelling unrivalled fertiliser.

Talc powder can get rid of ants.

An old bike pump can be used as a bug killer spray.

Sprinkle salt to get rid of slugs, weeds on grass & paths.

Another slug deterrent is soot or coal

Water with bleach can help clean paths patios of green fungi, but a little elbow grease will be needed.

Mark your tool handles with measurements (very handy)

A soapy steel wool pad dipped in paraffin will clean rust.

Put a mixture of raw linseed oil & powdered charcoal in holes for new fence posts to stop them rotting.

After planting seeds put packet in old jam jar & put at end of the row to remember whats where.

FORESEE PROBLEMS

Remember where the sunny spots of your garden are. Plant plants accordingly.

Avoid container grown plants that slide out of there pots easily &shrubs or plants with brown patches, when buying.

Keep plants well watered in 1st season of planting . Especially during dry spells.

Avoid overcrowding as it encourages mildew & other diseases.

Inspect plants regularly to catch problems early.

Remember most plants or shrubs need feeding, especially in early growing season. As well as information on packets there are a number of good gardening books available.

Making a Hanging Baskey

2009-08-25T16:00:00.003+01:00

Hanging baskets are great ideas for gifts whether it be Mothers day or another special occasion.

This Mother's Day, give mom a unique gift made especially for her. Instead of picking one of the ready made hanging baskets, buy all the ingredients and create your own basket or container that she can enjoy all summer.

Begin by choosing either a basket or some sort of container. Hanging baskets consist of a wire basket filled with sphagnum moss. Soak the moss in water for at least 10 minutes, squeeze any excess water out and press it into the inside of the basket, extending just over the rim. Poke holes in various spots to allow for trailing plants.

If you're using a container, ensure there is at least one hole at the bottom of the pot to allow for drainage. Place pieces of broken terra-cotta pots or gravel in the bottom to prevent the roots from clogging drainage holes. Generally, potting soil works better than regular garden soil as it tends to be lighter and absorbs more water.

Now you're ready to choose your plants. Considering what mom's interests or preferences are, you may want your planter to have a theme. Choose a common color or plant type – here are some ideas:

Edible Containers or Baskets- Salad basket with cherry tomatoes and a couple different types of lettuce, basil and chives. -

Salsa container with cilantro, tomatoes and peppers. -

Edible flowers are wonderful added to salads and fruit dishes. Some tasty varieties include, nasturtium, calendula, Johnny jump up's, and signet marigolds.-

Strawberry plants do wonderfully trailing in hanging baskets or poking through a terra cotta container with plenty of growing spouts.

Herbal Containers-

Tea blends such as bergamot or bee balm (ingredient for Earl Grey Tea), different types of mint, chamomile, lemon balm or spearmint. -

Culinary herbs such as basil, oregano, tarragon, cilantro, parsley, thyme, rosemary and sage.

Floral Combinations - Shade- Create a showy pink theme with 2 colors of Impatiens - Accent Pink & Pink Swirl - and Dichondra (Silver Falls).
Go heavy on the foliage with Coleus (Stained Glassworks Copper, Big Blond & True Red), Lantana (Dallas Red), and Bear Grass.-

Mix up a variety of species with Impatiens (Accent Pink), Hosta (Golden Tiara), Jacob's Ladder, Fuchsia (Thalia), Ground Ivy, Sweet Potato Vine, Plectranthus (Zulu Wonder), and Vinca Major (Variegata).

Floral Combinations - Sun-

Make a simple bold statement with only 1 plant - Calibrachoa (Cabaret Rose). Plant in a basket, making plenty of holes creating a large floral sphere.

- Make a bold statement with bright strong colors such as bright red Geranium (Designer Cherry), Swan River Daisy (Mini Yellow), Nirembergia (Purple robe), Marigold (Lemon Gem), and Petunia (Supercascade Rose)

.- Go the opposite end of the spectrum with soft pastel colors and combine Verbena (Tuscany Lavender Picotee), Wax Begonia (Nightlife Rose), and Browallia Speciosa.

- Good hardy plants that create an interesting look and don't mind if you forget to water them include hens and chicks, echeveria, and sedum.

- This basket contains plants that are sure to bloom all summer longCalibrachoa (Cabaret Purple), Snapdragon (Luminaire Yellow), and Verbena (Cherry Red). Don't be timid to try different color or texture combinations.

When in doubt, refer to the color wheel and combine shades that may be two or three spots apart. One thing is for certain; mom will appreciate the effort and will enjoy her gift all summer long.

Amerivest is a realty company based in southwest Florida, and specializes in Naples real estate. To view properties in the Vineyards real estate market, please visit us at NaplesGuru.com.

How to make your Own Vegetable Bucket Garden

2009-08-20T10:06:00.003+01:00

As food costs increase and families look to save money in creative ways, home vegetable gardens are becoming more popular across the country. In some situations, one of the major challenges to growing your own food is to find a suitable design that is inexpensive and can provide portability, if needed.

Portability is an important aspect if you live in a home that does not provide optimal conditions for a stationary garden. Some of the issues that may require portability may include minimal access to sunlight, strong wind conditions or animal control. A bucket garden is a very simple way to begin your journey toward food independence.If you are unsure whether or not you even want to venture down the path of becoming a self made vegetable grower, you can start small with one or two 5-gallon buckets. Most begin with the basic vegetable plants; tomatoes, peppers, peas or even green beans before they go full bore. You can even start small with herbs like basil or parsley before tackling real vegetable plants.

To get started, you can go to any home improvement or hardware store to get the following materials:

1. 1 or 2 five gallon buckets
2. Potting Soil
3. Tomato or Pepper plants
4. Fertilizer

Most 5 gallon buckets come in white, but you can buy different colors to accent your garden theme. You can add a little pizazz to your bucket garden by dressing up the 5 gallon containers with some paint. Pastel colors and designs might be a bit corny, but white buckets may be a bit plain and this may help dress up your growing space.Once you have everything you need, follow the process below to build your first bucket garden:

1. Drill several holes in the bottom of the 5 gallon bucket for drainage
2. Fill the bucket 2/3 of the way with the potting soil
3. Create several divots in the soil about 3 to 4 inches apart
4. Place plants into the holes and cover with remaining potting soil
5. Add Water and place in partial sunlight

Having vegetable buckets sit on the ground or up on a table can provide the basic portability you need. Another option for your bucket garden is the ability to suspend them off the ground so you can grow your plants upside down. This option can allow tomato or pepper plants to grow out the bottom without having to worry about staking your plants to keep them upright. If selecting this approach, the overall planting process would be slightly different to create the desired effect.
Grow your own vegetables for the family. Explore better cooking through experimentation. See more ways you can cook easy meals in minutes Easy-Home-Cooking.com

5 Tips To Develop Your Garden

2009-08-15T09:03:00.000+01:00

1)Keep your outside space clear

Open out the outside space and increase the area by trimming back any unruly area’s, ensure that if your potential purchasers arrive, the drive way is empty of any children’s toys, cars, gardening waste, bulk waste and rubbish bags. You may be getting rid of your unwanted rubbish but prospective buyers don’t need to see it. It is typically men who recognise how easy the work in the garden space is and having any excessive or overgrown space can really effect the chance of a sale.

2)Add some colourful features

Where ever possible, make your garden seem appealing by adding some floral touches. A simple technique is to add a set of pots or maybe a hanging basket and place colourful beautiful flowers and for however long you need it will be appealing. Try to avoid heavily scented plants as people have personal preferences and the wrong plant could leave a negative lasting impression. The best part of pots or baskets is they are usually relatively inexpensive and you can take them to a new home.

3)Using your border

The boundary of your space should be used to impress depending on the size and shape of garden you have. If your house has less outside space, blurring the boundaries with some potted plants but not too large can elude the eye to the size and it may be worth lightening the walls with paint. It can brighten the space, but ensure the chosen paint is non offensive and works well with the overall look. If you have a fairly big garden, point out the size, with clearly defined boundaries making sure that all fencing is well repaired and freshly painted or any brickwork is pristine.

4)The entertainment space

If your outside space is looking good, take it over the edge by creating a scene. Have a cleaned and stylish barbeque on show with garden furniture set out, as if you use the space all the time to host parties, even if this is not something you would do most prospective purchasers are looking for the dream rather than the reality. If you’re showing on a day that’s bright and sunny, increase the sale chances by offering them some refreshment when they’re outside.

5)Add a water feature

If the opportunity is there and you have the funding then add something just a little bit special for that extra effect by purchasing a designer water feature that is both beautiful and child friendly, it can make the memorable feature that means your property streaks ahead of the others in the same price range.

Chelsea is a intermittent columnist, writing occassional overviews in the UK about UKWaterFeatures.com. They also specialise in self contained water features and provide them throughout the UK, with showrooms based near to Doncaster.

Article Source: http://greatarticlesformoms.com

Tips for Planting a Vegetable Garden

2009-08-11T12:43:00.000+01:00

Vegetable gardening is a favorite spring and summer activity for many. It allows one to control what goes into his vegetables, and to harvest and eat them at the peak of freshness. That means that they are potentially better for us than store-bought veggies, and they taste better, too.Some like the idea of a vegetable garden, but are intimidated by the idea of starting one. It’s true that it requires a bit of a commitment, but vegetable gardening isn’t terribly difficult. If you like the idea of having fresh veggies from your very own garden, here are some tips to help you get started.

• Choose a nice, sunny spot for your garden. In general, vegetables need at least 6 hours of sun each day. You’ll also need to make sure there’s adequate room for the plants you have in mind. Check seed packets to see how far apart the plants need to be.

• Test the soil. For best results, check the texture, nutrients and minerals. But at the very least, you’ll need to check the pH. Most vegetables do best in soil with a neutral pH. If yours is too acidic or too alkaline, you’ll need to adjust it with sulfur or lime, respectively.

• Prepare your garden bed. If you have never had a garden in this particular spot before, you’ll need to remove the sod. Tilling an area where grass and weeds are present is best done in the fall.• Choose your plants. It’s best to start out with just a few of your favorite vegetables, and ones that have similar growing requirements.

• Plant your seeds or plants. Be sure to give them the room they need to grow, and plant them at the recommended depth. Water them as soon as you get them in the ground.

• Water your plants regularly. In general, they should get an inch of water each week. Consider adding mulch to your garden to keep the soil moist.

• Maintain your garden carefully. You’ll need to weed and harvest regularly, and stake some of your taller plants to keep them from flopping over.

• Watch for signs of pests. There are pesticides that will get rid of them, but perhaps avoiding pesticides is one of the reasons you want to grow your own vegetables. Safer alternatives include diatomaceous earth, plants that attract predator bugs, and chamomile spray.Planting a vegetable garden is harder than going to the store and picking up your produce, but it’s also cheaper and much more rewarding. A well-planned garden can produce enough fresh vegetables for your family when it comes time to harvest, with plenty left over to share or can for later use.

Gina Smithson is the resident editor of the Home & Garden Guide at Schmoozins.com - an online magazine for women that gives all women a voice. Join us as a contributor, schmoozer or just hang out a while.
Article Source: http://greatarticlesformoms.com

Cutting Costs: A Guide to Keeping Outgoings Down

2009-07-21T10:32:00.001+01:00

Author: Victoria Cochrane

As the saying goes, if you look after the pennies the pounds will look after themselves. Put simply, if people are careful not to waste small amounts of money then eventually they will start to see their savings grow.

This may seem like a very obvious statement to make, but at a time when many millions of people are starting to feel the effects of the economic downturn, it’s certainly sound advice that’s worth following.

Some of the obvious measures to take include walking to work, taking packed lunches and abstaining from going on wild nights out on the town. However, it’s worth pointing out that this will only go some of the way towards creating a healthy bank balance.

Bills and mortgages account for a significant proportion of most households’ outgoings, so it’s probably worth looking a little closer to home when looking to cut costs.

For example, many energy companies offer discounts to customers who pay by direct debit and who opt for paperless billing, so if such arrangement aren’t in place already then it’s worth checking whether this is possible. It’s also worth engaging in energy-saving strategies, including switching off appliances when they’re not in use, turning down the thermostat by a couple of degrees and closing the curtains to keep the heat in.

Furthermore, many people are so accustomed to using a certain energy supplier that they simply don’t consider that they may be paying over the odds. It’s worth doing an online assessment of providers using one of the many price comparison tools, even if it is just for peace of mind.

There are countless other outgoings too that should receive a similar level of attention from consumers. The internet is now a staple part of most households, with many families having several computers networked to allow simultaneous Web surfing to take place. This also means that high bandwidth will be required, given that bottom-end broadband speeds would perhaps struggle under the pressure of more than one or two users – and this can cost a lot of money.

It’s possible that home internet users could be getting more bang for their buck, with landline telephone calls, mobile broadband and mobile telephone calls included in some of the more extensive broadband packages, so it’s certainly worth checking to see if there are savings to be made by combining services.

By taking the time to look at every aspect of household expenditure, it’s possible to make significant savings with very little effort. Whether it’s gas, electricity or broadband internet, it pays to look around for the most cost-effective deals.

About the Author:

Victoria Cochrane writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Cutting Costs: A Guide to Keeping Outgoings Down

Cheap Gift Ideas

2009-07-20T11:56:00.002+01:00

By: anne gilardo

For those of you with more time than money, homemade gifts just may be the solution to your holiday gift-giving needs. Homemade gifts add a personal touch and often cost less than their store-bought counterparts. Thanks to our readers, we've come up with the best gift ideas to make:

Family Recipe Book Preserve those old, well-loved family recipes using your computer. There are many software programs available for entering your recipes that even calculate nutritional information based on the ingredients. Add clip art, scan old family photos of the person who is known for making the recipe to include on a particular page. For those with less time on their hands, photocopy your own recipe cards. Place the pages in plastic page protectors to protect from those inevitable cooking spills. Assemble your book using a loose-leaf binder or inexpensive photo album. Your family will love having all their favorite recipes in one place. Add a section including helpful shopping tips, stain-removal tips, sizes, organizing tips, a page listing everyone's birthdays, addresses, sizes, favorites, etc.

Picture Cubes This is a great gift for Dad to put on his desk at work. You'll need four wooden cubes, 1.5 inches in diameter; decoupage; and six photos of your children. Cut the pictures into a 3 x 3 inch square, and then cut the square into four equal pieces (1.5 inch square each). Decoupage one side of each block and stick on the picture. Rotate the cubes and repeat for all six sides. When it's dry enough, cover all the sides with decoupage (this may take some time because you have to wait for some to dry before you can turn them to do the other sides). You're done -- a cube puzzle of your six pictures!

Homemade Spa Set Know someone who's stressed? Give the gift of relaxation! Make your own bath products and assembling in a cute basket.

Bath Salts - 1 c. Epsom salt (available at pharmacies), 1 c. sea or rock salt, 20 drops fragrance oil, food coloring.

Bath Oil - 1/2 c. almond oil, 1/2 c. castor oil or aloe vera, oil from 6-8 Vitamin E capsules, dried flowers, 25-30 drops fragrance oil.

Bubble Bath - 3 c. clear, mild dishwashing detergent, 6-8 Vitamin E capsules, 1/4 c. glycerin, 25-30 drops fragrance oil, food coloring, dried orange slices and orange peel.

Once the bath salts and oils are mixed up, place them in jars or small jars and decorate with ribbons, metallic strings, etc. Or, print little tags on your computer. Add store-bought items such as a wash cloth, pumice stone, loofah, or whatever you choose.

Stepping Stone Stepping stones are easy to make with a little ready-mix concrete. No need to buy expensive kits at craft stores! Just look for a decorative mold to use, or for a round stone just use an old ice cream bucket. Coat with Vaseline for easy removal when the stone has set. Pour in about 1 ½ inches of concrete. When the consistency is right, have your child put in his footprints and/or handprints. Add the date if you wish, and decorate with various seashells, marbles, mosaic tiles, etc.

Coffee Lovers Basket Have a coffee lover on your list? Who doesn't! Here are a few ideas to include in a gift basket for any java junkie:

*Chocolate-dipped plastic spoons with sprinkles and a bow for decoration.
*A box of chocolate-dipped cookies or home made biscotti.*
Home made dessert coffee mixes, such as:

Dessert Coffee (Mocha)1/4 c. instant coffee1/2 c. cocoa1/2 c. sugar
Dessert Coffee (Café au Lait)1/4 c. instant coffee1/2 c. dry milk1/2 c. sugar
Dessert Coffee (Spice)1/4 c. instant coffee1/2 c. sugar1/4 tsp. nutmeg1/4 tsp. cinnamon1/4 tsp.
Allspice
(For all the mixes above, combine all ingredients well. Store in a tightly covered jar up to 6 months. For each serving, place 2 teaspoons mix in cup. Fill with boiling water.)

Grandparent's Calendar Using a computer program, print off calendar months on 8.5 x 11 cardstock. On the blank backsides, decorate with your kids' artwork, photos, poems, clip art, etc. Bring the finished pages to your local copier to laminate and bind them together. This is great for grandparents, but can be modified for any member of the family or for friends.

No-Sew Fleece Blanket Choose polar fleece in cute patterns at a fabric or craft store. Baby blankets require about ¾ of a yard, you'll want a yard or more for adults and older children. You can make a heavier blanket by layering two fabric panels or a lighter-weight blanket by using one layer only. Cut about 2" strips on the edges and tie them together to add fringe. They don't fray, even with washing.

Brownie/Cookie Jars Brownie jars are an easy and expensive gift idea for family, friends, and teachers. Layer the dry ingredients in which to make brownies or cookies in a mason jar. Decorate the jar with ribbon and attach instructions such as: add butter, eggs, etc. and baking time. You can even attach a recipe card if you'd like. Since people usually receive so many baked goodies this time of year, a treat to make at a later date is usually appreciated. Even if they do not want to bake them, the jar looks attractive on display in the kitchen.

Bread Basket This is a great inexpensive gift, and especially easy for those of you with bread machines. Bake a loaf of bread and wrap it up in cellophane or plastic wrap. Place in a nice basket which you can pick up at Wal-Mart for a couple dollars each. Place a pretty piece of fabric in the bottom of the basket, trimming the edges with a pinking shears (optional).

Art Frame Purchase an inexpensive wooden or cardboard picture frame (under £2 each at most discount and/or craft stores). Have your child decorate the frame with acrylic paints. Place a photo of your child inside the frame once it's dry, and you have a great gift for a grandparent!So by now I'm sure your bursting with some cheap gift ideas!

For more help pop over to my gift accessories blog!
Article Source: http://greatarticlesformoms.com

Turn the Heating Down

2009-07-16T11:40:00.002+01:00

By turning your heating down by one degree, you could save 10% on your annual heating bill. The average cost to heat a 3 bedroom terrace house is £731 per annum, so you would save around £70.00 per year just for turning your heating down my one degree. You should also make check your current energy supplier with online comparison sites, some people have been saving as much as £300 a year by switching energy suppliers.

While you are on the comparison sites you should do a check of your home and car insurance too. A lot of people automatically re-new their insurances without realising their current insurance provider may not be the best. Even if you are happy with your insurance provider and do not wish to change, you should still check their renewal price against competitors, a majority of the time if you contact your insurance company and advise them you have found a cheaper quote they will match it to keep you as a customer.

How to Save Money

2009-07-15T13:14:00.002+01:00

With the current economic situation every penny counts so over the nest few days there will be advice on how to save money.

Seal your doors

Annual savings: £30

If you can feel cold air coming in around the windows in your home it means warm air is escaping. In a typical home, 20%of all heat is lost through draughts.
Draught proofing is an easy, cost-effective way to reduce heating bills. Most materials are available from DIY stores.

For people who suspect they have draughts, why not make a low-tech "draft detector" by taping or clipping one end of a tissue to the bottom of a wire hanger. Hold the hanger by the hook and take this "instrument" to windows, air-conditioning units, electric outlets and switches – if the tissue flutters, you have a draught.

One of the easiest and most popular draught solutions was self-sticking weatherstrip tape.
This adhesive strip can be attached to windows and doors, the foam reduces draughts under doors and saves on heat loss. You can buy this at a store such as Home base for only £4.99 a roll.

Top Tips for Re-cycling

2009-07-14T12:44:00.001+01:00

Every one of us can make a difference in our daily lives. As well as using environmentally responsible Eco-products around the house and garden try the following to make all those things that have been produced last longer.

Reduce

Avoid buying unnecessary or overly packaged goods
Instead buy food products 'loose' and re-use any plastic bags
Take a packed lunch to work or school in a re-usable container
Donate magazines to waiting rooms at your hairdressers or dentist

Re-use

Re-use carrier bags or buy and use your own bag each time you go shopping - see our range of Natural Jute Shopping Bags
Re-use envelopes especially 'jiffy' bags with re-usable envelope labels - see our stationary section to purchase these
Re-use containers especially in the case of cleaning products which are refillable

Recycle

Compost vegetable peelings, cut flowers, shredded newspaper, and grass cuttings - we sell the UK’s best selling composter in our gardening section
Take unwanted clothes, shoes, books and eye wear to charity shops
Recycle any laser/Ink printer cartridges - visit www.cartridges4charity.co.uk
Take aluminium foil, old phone books, glass bottles and jam jars to your local recycling point

Buying Recycled Products

Look for products made from 100% Post Consumer Waster Paper Or with a high content of recycled post consumer waste paper - see all our stationary, calendars, diaries, greetings cards and wraps
Use bin liners made with high recycled content
Cat litter made from paper or sawdust
Use a non-peat soil which contains composted waste such as straw and coir(coconut)

Carpets

2009-07-13T07:51:00.000+01:00

Today some quick tips for looking after your carpets:

Test your carpet before starting any scrubbing, extracting or spotting cleans. Some carpets
can be sensitive to acidic cleaners and some to alkali's and can lose their dye.
Always clean up spills and accidents as they happen. Most dirt can be removed if attended to quickly. Only when it left to react does it become a 'stain'.
Never rub or brush spots; always work from the outside in and then soak it into a paper towel or cloth.
Do not overuse any carpet chemicals, or you will be left with residue in the carpet that cannot be vacuumed.
Wool carpet is ideal material as its texture and resilience means that it is easily cleanable, harder to dent and harder to get soiled.