Laura Harnett, founder of eco-friendly cleaning brand Seep, says: "Now is the perfect time to freshen up the house ahead of the colder months, declutter and basically get ready to nest and prepare for winter."
Which pieces should you focus on...
According to a study by Vypr, a consumer analytics company, most people focus on the kitchen, followed by the living room.
"The kitchen and living room are high-traffic areas that are cleaned regularly anyway. Therefore, I recommend focusing on thorough cleaning work during fall cleaning," advises Harnett.
"The best place to start is by looking at kitchen appliances and living room floors and windows.
In addition to replacing summer picnic utensils, outdoor plastic cups and other summer items for your slow cookers, winter blankets and blankets, etc.
It's easy to resort to harsh chemicals to clean an oven, but she says that's not necessarily the case.
Clean the ecological way…
It's easy to resort to harsh chemicals to clean an oven, but she says that's not necessarily the case.
"Simply mix baking soda and water into a thick paste and spread it on top.
"Let it sit in the dirt overnight, then scrub with an eco-friendly scouring pad," says Harnett.
"Don't forget the extractor hood and the hood attachment. Spray a mixture of white vinegar and water to remove grease and wipe the surface of the metal lids with a lemon to give them a nice shine.
Vypr's Sam Gilding says basics like white vinegar and lemons are so inexpensive that you don't have to resort to expensive store-bought cleaning products. Sam also recommends purchasing eco-friendly cleaning tools.
How to clean windows...
First treat the window frames with warm water and a drop of organic dishwashing liquid. Then wash off the soap scum and residue with clean, cold water. Second, mix one part white vinegar with one part water in a reusable spray bottle.
Start spraying at the top of the window and wipe with an eco-friendly multi-purpose cloth.
For a streak-free finish, bamboo multi-purpose cloths are ideal.
How to order…
Harnett opts for the 15-minute method: "I involve my children and each of us takes care of a room; Listen to our favorite songs and bombard the room for 15 minutes. I stock up on bags or boxes for life and ask the kids to save anything that can be donated to a charity, given to friends, or sold, and I make sure what's left has a place... and gets put away."
(CNN) - New Covid-19 infections are no longer being tracked and reported as closely as they were during the public health emergency. Instead, U.S. officials are now focusing on testing the contents of U.S. wastewater to contain the virus.
To determine virus levels and broader trends , the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention relies on an extensive network of sampling sites at wastewater treatment plants across the country. The surveillance network covers approximately 43% of the population.
The process does not accurately count the number of cases and measurements may vary depending on the wastewater flow at a particular location or the characteristics of a particular variant at a particular time. But it serves as an early warning of the spread of the virus, according to CDC officials . CNN tracks these numbers weekly across the country and by state, and this page is automatically updated as the agency releases new information.
The virus concentration varies depending on time and place. This table shows trends by state, in ascending order of severity of virus activity during the most recent testing period.
Samples will be collected from sampling sites throughout the United States that meet criteria for adequate data anonymization. The sample survey allows the CDC to see results from a broad view of the population, not just those who are part of the health care system. Wastewater data also helps local health authorities track new Covid variants and other infectious diseases such as RSV and MPOX.
The agency reports the percentage change in virus levels in each location where data was collected over a 15-day period, and some densely populated states have more testing sites than others. This map shows these places. Some sites saw an increase in activity while others saw a decrease.
When I imagined having my own home, I thought I would be the person who made DIY room sprays. Somewhere between concerns about cost, time and skills required, I stopped trying.
I looked for simpler ones and added my own touches by incorporating my favorite fall scents. I was pleasantly surprised at how affordable and easy it was to customize my own room sprays, and Bourbon Rose was my winner.
1. Homemade Citrus Room Spray Recipe
(Image credit: Future/Ciera Cree)
Citrus scents are very popular in many households, especially in the bathroom, as they smell very clean and fresh. Since fall, I decided to combine the lemon scent with that of mandarin and ginger to add additional layers of fragrant complexity as well as some warm spice.
What You Need for a Homemade Citrus Room Spray Recipe
What you'll need to make my DIY Citrus Twist room spray costs about $2.50 per bottle, although you may already have most of it at home:
Proceedings
The method for making this room spray is simple, but I had to remind myself not to be too aggressive with the essential oil. When working with several different flavors like in this recipe, it's important not to use too much oil as the flavors can overpower each other.
Start by measuring the baking soda into a clean measuring cup, like the 2-Cup Pyrex Glass Measuring Cup from Walmart , for easier pouring later, and mix it with two cups of hot water. The heat from the water will dissolve the baking soda and ensure that no gravel residue is left in the final room spray solution.
Once the baking soda dissolves in the hot water (you can stir it to make this happen faster), add the juice of half a lemon and carefully measured drops of essential oil.
From now on, simply allow the mixture to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a spray bottle of your choice. You'll have about two cups of your room spray and a little more thanks to the lemon liquid.
Make sure to always shake the room spray well before use.
My verdict on the Citrus Twist room spray recipe
Of the three recipes I wanted to try, I assumed this one would bring the strongest scent into a room since citrus cleaning products tend to be pretty intense and are one of the most popular cleaning tips . However, this was the weakest of all and quite disappointing.
After waiting half an hour for the boiled water to cool and another 10 minutes to prepare it, the sprayed mixture gave off a faint odor that quickly dissipated. The jar of leftover mixture smelled amazing, but when you sprayed it on, the same bright lemon note with a hint of spice didn't really fill the room.
This recipe may work better in a diffuser, but since we were hoping for a room spray, I decided to modify the recipe to make it more simmering in hopes of extending the longevity of the long-lasting lemon scent. I tried boiling slices of a whole lemon and a whole tangerine in water for 10 minutes and then mixing them with two tablespoons of witch hazel and my essential oil drops once the mixture had cooled. I didn't use baking powder in my recipe.
The room smelled great while the pot was bubbling and the witch hazel definitely helped improve the recipe as the smell when sprayed in two rooms now lasts much longer. In a small bathroom with a hood, the smell lasted for about an hour, and the same was true in a medium-sized bedroom with the door closed.
The scent was light and not at all reminiscent of a lemon scented cleanser, with a warm note of ginger in the essential oil. If I were to do it again, I would add more essential oil because the scent of the oil seemed to be the first note to dissipate from the spray, but the air in the rooms I sprayed in smelled fresher for hours , after I sprayed it. although the smell became more subtle. .
An ideal scent for a bathroom, a stuffy room or perhaps a kitchen to eliminate the smell of food. It was definitely worth tweaking the recipe and spending an extra five minutes chopping the fruit and adding it to the witch hazel.
2. Recipe for a homemade fireplace scent room spray
(Image credit: Future/Ciera Cree)
When I found an essential oil called "Smokey Fireside" at the store, I was hoping it would be the perfect spray for my fall room. While researching easy recipes, I found that making a spray with isopropyl alcohol can extend the life of your homemade sprays. So I decided to try it out and compare it with the results of my other recipes.
What you need for a Homemade Fireplace Scent Room Spray Recipe
The approximate cost per bottle is $2 to $3. Like Citrus Twist, these costs will be lower if you already have some or all of these items at home.
Proceedings
To make this homemade room spray , all you need to do is mix and shake everything in any order. When I applied the essential oil drops, I was skeptical that the spray would work well because going from two or three drops in the Citrus Twist DIY Room Spray to 30 seemed like a big step forward. However, since the recipe contains alcohol, I was hoping that the aroma of the essential oils would help balance out the smells.
This honestly looked like the quickest room spray recipe ever created, so I couldn't wait to see how it turned out.
My verdict on the homemade fireplace scent room spray recipe
This recipe was quickest to make in just five minutes. For the small amount of time and effort required, the DIY room spray was pleasant and gave off a subtle, spicy woody scent that didn't linger in the air for more than 10 minutes.
I tried adding more drops of essential oil, which didn't help much, but after some experimentation I found that the scent seems to work best as a DIY laundry spray and subtly lasts for over an hour when sprayed on a pillow . I imagine spraying this solution on the living room curtains to make your house smell like fall . However, if you don't use a large amount, it will be extremely subtle yet pleasant.
The recipe might have worked better with witch hazel or perhaps a stronger, more expensive brand of essential oil. Or if you want to make a reed diffuser , make sure this subtle blend permeates your room evenly to keep the scent in the room.
3. Homemade Bourbon Rose Room Spray Recipe
(Image credit: Future/Ciera Cree)
The roses in my garden are still clinging to the last rays of sunshine before fall arrives, so it was the perfect time to try out a natural rose scent in the room . Adding notes of bourbon and vanilla through essential oils seemed like the ideal combination for cozy home scents.
What you need for a Homemade Bourbon Rose Room Spray Recipe
Approximate cost is $2 ingredients per bottle. If you want to use fresh rose petals in your garden, you don't have to factor them into the total cost. However, if this is not the case or your rose is not currently blooming, purchase an inexpensive rose bouquet from your local store.
1 spray bottle
Fresh rose petals: You can use two level tablespoons of dried petals instead, but a handful of fresh petals produce a better scent. It will be cheaper to buy them in the store for a few dollars, as online stores usually sell display bouquets or gifts.
The petal spray method tends to take longer to make than other recipes because you have to patiently infuse the plant's flavor with boiling water and then give the liquid enough time to cool. But when it comes to the tricks that people with nice-smelling houses always use , I'm willing to invest the time.
Start by boiling a handful of rose petals in water on the stove for about 10 minutes. The water should take on a yellowish hue after boiling. The petals also appear translucent.
Then strain the petals from the rose water and pour the solution into a clean measuring cup. Then add two tablespoons of witch hazel to this mixture. It's optional to add essential oils, but if you want to do like I did, add these drops at this point too.
Once the mixture has cooled to room temperature, pour it into a spray bottle. Shake well before use.
My verdict on the homemade bourbon rose room spray recipe
This spray is hands down my favorite and I plan on using it again and again. It is soft, light and pleasant to smell. I tested the spray in a small bathroom with an extractor hood and in my bedroom with the door closed. Even with the hood on, the combination of rose, bourbon, and vanilla remained noticeable in the bathroom for about an hour and a half, and subtle for several more hours after that.
The smell stayed in the room for hours, but sometimes almost all day. I recommend applying a few drops of essential oil in this spray, although this is optional as the bourbon and vanilla notes really stand out without overpowering the rose.
At first it seemed like a long time to wait half an hour for the water in which the rose petals were boiled to cool down. However, to achieve the expected result, it is definitely worth taking the total forty-five minutes to cook and prepare this air spray. I can't wait to do this again and experiment with different essential oil supplements.
my conclusion
From left to right, my DIY room sprays: Fireside Fragrance, Citrus Twist and Bourbon Rose.
(Image credit: Future/Ciera)
What I remember most from my first experience making DIY room sprays is:
Don't doubt all-natural ingredients like witch hazel until you try them. You might be pleasantly surprised because recipes like this have been around for a long time and for good reason.
If you're experimenting with different scents, try to find cheaper ones to try out, like I did. However, if you know what you want, invest in a more expensive bottle. My set of six essential oils costs about $6, but it would be worth spending the money on a better oil for a scent that lasts longer in the air. Anthropologie's Campo Manifest Pure Essential Oil Kit features gorgeous scents like lime, mandarin, cedarwood, and mulberry.
Don't be afraid to modify recipes you find online if they don't work for you, as long as it doesn't pose a safety risk. If you want a stronger aroma, add more essential oil and more natural ingredients like a second lemon or a handful of rose petals.
Now that you've figured out how to easily make your own room sprays, why not think about the rooms you'll use them in, as well as other tips for great-smelling rooms? These things that people with smelly lockers always do are easy to incorporate into your life and will eliminate shoe smells in no time.
Well, it's supposed to be fall, which we mostly know because they've already started releasing holiday items at Target. But no matter the temperature, it's still important to keep up with your home's seasonal maintenance. In honor of the first week of fall, I've put together some great tips from inspectors to help you get started on maintaining your home this fall.
1. Test your sprinkler system
Although the column I referenced above was originally written for the spring, it provides a step-by-step guide to testing your sprinkler system, and with fall approaching, it's the perfect time to do it. We are just coming out of a season where your sprinkler system has been put under a lot of stress and is about to go dormant for a period of time. So now is a good time to find out if any buds are dropping or missing.
2. Repair your air conditioner
If your air conditioner hasn't been serviced recently, fall is a good time to do so. This is another piece of equipment that saw a lot of training over the summer and could probably use some TLC. And since you're in the process of making the switch to heating, it's always a good idea to do some maintenance before making the switch to keep everything nice and clean.
3. Clean your gutters
This was a classic - you won't believe what you find in people's sewers! However, when it comes to fall home maintenance, cleaning your gutters is an ongoing task when the leaves start to fall. However, it's a good idea to check them now so you can start again. Allowing leaves and debris to build up in your gutters can cause real damage to your home once the rainy season arrives. The extra weight can pull gutters and downspouts away from the house, causing damage to the roof and eaves.
4. Visit your attic
This column was originally written for summer, but the advice applies to fall as well. People tend to forget about the rooms in their home that they don't see regularly, and there are a lot of important things there! Ducts can become kinked or loose, water heaters or HVAC systems can leak, and vents can become loose. Equipment needs maintenance from time to time, and if you never inspect it, you may not know something is wrong until a major problem occurs.
If you have seasonal concerns about your home or have tips for fall maintenance, you can always have a home inspector come to your home for a seasonal home inspection . We'll check all of your home's systems and let you know what repairs or maintenance you need to do to be ready for next season.
Although preventative measures can be very helpful, sometimes a pest problem requires the attention of an expert. (Image: Canva)
Don't you want to wake up one night and see a cockroach running into your kitchen? Why should you wait to discover a pesky pest in your home? Take preventive measures now and every day to ensure your home is free of ants in the kitchen, cockroaches in the bathroom, or buzzing mosquitoes.
There are a few things you can do daily, such as: B. Storing your food in airtight containers and sealing cracks and gaps in your walls and corners to ensure your home stays pest-free in a natural and effective way.
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You also don't need harsh chemicals to get the job done; Natural essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil are known to repel insects like ants, spiders, and mosquitoes.
Of course, if you are faced with a severe infestation or recurring pest problems, it is time to call professional pest control services to assess and treat the situation.
Here are 10 things you can do every day or generally over time to keep these pests away.
Keep your house clean and tidy .
Pests are attracted to dirt, leftover food, and clutter. One of the easiest ways to prevent an infestation is to keep your home clean and organized. Regular sweeping, wiping, and wiping surfaces can remove food crumbs and other debris that attract pests.
Tip: Don't forget hidden places like under furniture, behind appliances and in cupboards where pests like to hide. Clean up spills immediately and make sure there is no water in sinks or bathrooms.
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Store food properly
Pests like ants, cockroaches and rodents look for easy sources of food. Leaving food out in the open or poorly sealed in the kitchen can be an open invitation to enjoy.
Tip: Store dry foods like cereal and snacks in airtight containers. Store fruit in the refrigerator, especially in the warmer months, and always cover leftovers.
Seal cracks and gaps
Small cracks and gaps around windows, doors and walls are like open doors to pests. These small openings allow ants, spiders, cockroaches, and even rodents to easily enter your home. Closing these gaps is an easy way to block their entry.
Tip: Check the areas around doors, windows, pipes and vents for cracks.
Keep your trash cans locked
Trash cans are a popular place for pests to reside, especially if they are not properly sealed. The smell of leftover food or trash can attract flies, cockroaches and even rats. To keep pests away, it is important to properly seal the waste.
Tip: Use trash cans with tight-fitting lids both inside and outside. Empty them regularly and clean the containers to avoid odors and residue.
Repair leaks and reduce humidity
Many pests such as cockroaches and mosquitoes thrive in moist environments. Leaky pipes clog the pipes and standing water supplies them with the moisture they need to survive. Eliminating these water sources can significantly reduce pest activity in your home.
Tip: Check sinks, faucets, and toilets for leaks and repair them quickly. Ensure good ventilation in areas prone to moisture such as bathrooms, kitchens and basements. If necessary, use a dehumidifier in particularly humid areas.
Your balcony or garden can be the first line of defense against pests. Piles of leaves, tall grass, and debris that accumulate around your home can attract pests such as mosquitoes, rodents, and termites, which can eventually invade.
Tip: Keep your balcony and garden tidy by pruning plants and shrubs, mowing the lawn regularly and removing piles of leaves.
Use natural pesticides
If you'd rather avoid chemical pesticides, there are many natural alternatives that can help keep pests away. Certain herbs and essential oils act as natural repellents and make your home less attractive to insects.
Tip: Use essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil to repel insects like ants, spiders, and mosquitoes. You can dilute these oils with water and spray on problem areas. Planting herbs like basil, lavender, and mint in your home can also deter pests.
Install mosquito nets
Insects such as flies and mosquitoes can easily enter your home through open doors and windows. Attaching mosquito nets to doors and windows is a simple and effective way to keep insects out while letting in fresh air.
Tip: Make sure all window and door screens are in good condition and have no cracks or gaps. If you notice any damage, repair or replace the screens immediately.
Dispose of garden waste properly.
If you have a garden or lawn, you probably have to deal with garden waste such as grass clippings, leaves and branches. Improper disposal of this waste can attract pests that can eventually get inside.
Tip: Always bag your garden waste and dispose of it properly. If you compost, keep the compost bin away from the house as it can attract pests such as rodents and insects.
If necessary, call a pest control professional
Although preventative measures can be very helpful, sometimes a pest problem requires the attention of an expert. If you are faced with a severe infestation or recurring pest problems, it may be time to call professional pest control services to assess and treat the situation.
Tip: Schedule regular pest control inspections, especially in areas prone to termites, rodents or other pests. Preventative treatments can help you protect yourself from pests before they become a problem.
Light is one of the most powerful sources of energy and natural sunlight is considered very beneficial in Vastu. (Image: Canva)
Have you ever walked into a room and immediately felt at ease, as if the energy was flowing perfectly? This is the magic of a balanced home. According to Vastu Shastra, the way your living space is organized can have a profound impact on the energy you feel.
Whether you're looking for greater peace, better health, or even greater wealth, aligning your home with Vastu principles can make a big difference. And the good news? You don't have to tear down walls or do a major renovation to feel the impact. Sometimes small changes, like rearranging furniture or adding some plants, can be enough to transform your home into a sanctuary full of positivity.
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Below are some simple and practical tips to help you make subtle changes that will bring positivity, peace and well-being into your home.
Sort and organize your space
Clutter can block the free flow of energy in your home and lead to stagnation and stress. According to Vastu, a tidy and organized home is essential for positive energy. Clean up your living spaces regularly by removing unnecessary or unused items, especially at the main entrance, as this is where energy enters your home.
Tip: Donate or recycle items you no longer need. A clean and tidy space allows positive energy to flow freely.
Arrange your furniture for better flow
The arrangement of furniture can influence the flow of energy in a room. Avoid placing furniture so that it blocks doors or windows, as these represent energy entry points. In living rooms, seating arrangements should be round, square or octagonal to promote harmony and conversation.
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Tip: Place your bed in the southwest corner of the bedroom and avoid sleeping with your head facing north. According to Vastu, this would promote better sleep and better health.
Invite natural light
Light is one of the most powerful sources of energy and natural sunlight is considered very beneficial in Vastu. Dark rooms can lead to a buildup of negative energy, while rooms well lit with natural light promote positive mood, clarity and happiness.
Tip: Keep windows open during the day to let in natural light and fresh air. If there are areas in your home with little or no natural light, consider adding mirrors to reflect the light or using soft, warm lighting fixtures to brighten the room.
Incorporate houseplants
Plants symbolize growth, vitality and freshness and are therefore perfect for bringing good energy into your home. According to Vastu, plants such as money plants, bamboo and basil (tulsi) are considered particularly auspicious and promote wealth and health.
Tip: Do not keep thorny plants such as cacti indoors as they are believed to attract negative energies. Choose green leafy plants and pay attention to good care.
Add mirrors carefully
Mirrors can enhance the flow of positive energy when placed correctly. They reflect light and energy and help make a space more open and dynamic. However, avoid placing mirrors in bedrooms or front doors as they can reflect positive energy outside the home.
Tip: Place mirrors on the walls that reflect natural light or beautiful views outside. This can increase positive energy and make your space appear larger.
Bring the five elements into balance
Vastu is based on the balance of the five elements: earth, water, fire, air and space. Each of these elements corresponds to a different direction and balancing them in your home can create harmony. For example, water features such as fountains or aquariums should be placed in the north or northeast, while fire features (candles or lamps) are best placed in the southeast.
Tip: Consider placing small water features, candles, or crystals in different areas of your home to keep the elements in balance and create positive energy.
Colors play an important role in Vastu and can influence the energy in different areas of your home. Warm tones like red and orange provide vitality and energy, while cool tones like blue and green provide calm and peace. Choose colors based on room function and energy needs.
Tip: In the bedroom, opt for light, calming colors such as pastels or blues that promote a calming energy. For living rooms, you can use earth tones or invigorating yellows to encourage conversation and connection.
Keep the entrance attractive
The main entrance is where the energy enters your home. Therefore, it is important to keep this area clean, well-lit and inviting. According to Vastu, a well-kept entrance area brings positive energy, prosperity and new opportunities into the house.
Tip: Decorate your entrance area with fresh flowers and ensure good lighting in the room. Avoid placing trash cans or shoes near the entrance as these are considered negative.
Create a positive atmosphere with sounds.
According to Vastu, sound vibrations can affect the energy of a room. Gentle, relaxing sounds such as wind chimes or gentle music can cleanse negative energies and bring harmony into the home.
Tip: Place wind chimes near windows or doors to encourage the movement of positive energy. You can also play relaxing music or nature sounds to create a calm atmosphere.
Pay attention to the kitchen.
Cooking represents the element of fire, which is essential for health and nutrition. According to Vastu, the southeast corner of the house is ideal for the kitchen as it corresponds to the fire element. Also, be sure to cook facing east to harness the positive energy of the sun.
Tip: Keep the kitchen clean and tidy and do not place the stove directly in front of the sink as this represents a conflict between the elements of fire and water.
By making these small conscious changes in your home, you can create a living space that not only conforms to Vastu principles but also radiates positive energy. These adjustments are easy to implement and can significantly improve the overall environment of your home and promote health, happiness and prosperity. With just a few adjustments, whether by decluttering, rearranging furniture, adding plants, or balancing elements, you can transform your home into a sanctuary full of good energy that promotes well-being and harmony for everyone who lives there.
Remember that Vastu is not just about structure; It's about creating an environment that feels good and promotes a sense of peace and positivity.
The influential Mrs Hinch , also known as Sophie Hinchcliffe , has inspired millions of people to spruce up their homes with her clever cleaning tips and tricks.
Ms Hinch's loyal followers are now sharing their own cleaning solutions in Facebook groups dedicated to keeping the home clean.
One member of one such group, Amy Sarah Swift, asked for advice on how to remove stubborn stains from an electric panel that doesn't seem to budge no matter how hard you try.
Amy wrote: "Looking for suggestions...what removes these burn marks when cooking on an electric stove?"
"No matter how many times I clean or try, I can't get them off and they look terrible."
Other cleaning fans quickly joined in with their top tips and favorite methods. Lesley Norris Adams commented: "I use The Pink Stuff in mine; The paste, not the spray, and the result is always clear and clean. »
Another follower, Pippa, agreed and said: " Pink Stuff dough and a roasting pan work great for this." »
Cheryl, another member, suggested a different approach: "Toothpaste and a damp cloth – scrub well and then buff. »
Many have recommended an oven scraper for this task. Clare said: "Try using a worktop scraper . You will be surprised!
Someone else noted, "I use a lot of elbow grease... a countertop scraper will remove the stains as it burns, but be careful not to press too hard and damage the glass."
Another reviewer recommended the Astonish Hob Cleaner , which is considered "the only thing" that works.
Doing laundry can be a hassle, especially now that summer is over. As autumn approaches in the UK, the increase in rainy days means more households are looking for ways to dry their clothes indoors without having to give up the luxury of a tumble dryer - equipment that not everyone has the space or money for .
This situation often leads people to opt for dryers , but alone they can sometimes leave clothes smelling musty , even if they are washed perfectly.
To combat these unwanted smells, Mrs. Hinch fans have introduced a smart companion for your dryer that will keep your clothes fresh.
Looking for quick indoor drying tips, a woman turned to Mrs Hinch 's Cleaning Tips and Tricks Facebook page. Charlotte Holland posted her dilemma: "What's the best way to dry clothes without a dryer?" and added: "I always find that clothes smell terrible when I put them on radiators or small dryers. The laundry pile is like a mountain to me, so I am very grateful for any answer.
Frequent respondents in the comments section agreed that combining a dehumidifier with a clothes dryer is the winning strategy.
These devices are designed to remove moisture from the air, an essential tool in damp areas of your home that can attract allergens and bacteria.
Debbie Stevenson advises: "A dehumidifier in front of the dryer works best. A turning point."
Sarah Dennord shared her laundry tip with us, saying, "We use a dehumidifier next to our clothesline and that's great."
"If you have a small bedroom or laundry room, you can put them together and close the door. I find that two loads on a drying rack dry faster and don't stink. You can wash it in the morning and keep it smelling fresh in the evening.
Dolores Connolly advised against putting wet clothes on radiators, saying: "It's not good to put clothes straight from the washing machine onto the radiator." It's worth investing in a dehumidifier to dry laundry quickly and put them on the clothesline next to you.
Morag Ellis recommended an additional spin cycle: "A further spin cycle at maximum speed after washing will significantly reduce drying times. »
He also added: "Then separate the clothes on the drying rack and place a dehumidifier next to it to absorb the moisture. »
The process works by regulating high humidity, creating a dry environment that promotes the evaporation of moisture from clothing. The dehumidifier then captures this moisture from the air.
This allows the dehumidifier to return fresh, dry air to the clothing, speeding up drying time.
The woman proudly showed off the before and after photos of her mattress and posted: "I just wanted to share this tip I found online a while ago when I..."
If there is mold on your clothes, whether from improper storage, in the washing machine, or from exposure to moisture, you may be wondering how best to remove it.
While this is a common laundry problem, it's important to know how to preserve clothing before mold sets in and spreads, causing irreparable damage, odors, and stains.
We asked laundry experts for professional advice on whether you can remove mold from clothes (spoiler alert: it is possible) and how to successfully wash clothes .
"You can remove mold from clothes, but you typically don't use the same methods as you would with any other detergent," says Carolina Kazimierski, co-owner and president of Sophia's Cleaning Service . Mold spores are stubborn and usually penetrate deep into the tissue. Therefore, they must be completely eliminated to prevent further spread and thus avoid bad habits that increase the risk of mold formation .
What you need to remove mold from clothes
How to remove mold from clothes.
(Image credit: Industville)
"While it is certainly possible to remove mold from clothing, it is a difficult process and could even permanently damage the material," says Ken Doty, operations manager at The Maids .
If you want to try saving your clothes, here is the method recommended by Doty experts, which is best done in a well-lit room, with natural light if possible.
Step 1: Act quickly
"If you notice mold on your clothing, you should act as quickly as possible," says Doty. "Make sure the mold has not spread to other clothing and take the affected item outside or into a well-ventilated, lit room."
Next, grab your scrub brush. "Remove any remaining loose spores," says Doty, which will make the cleaning process easier.
Step 3: Soak in vinegar
"Make a cleaning solution of water (preferably warm) and 1 to 2 cups of white vinegar," says Doty, in a ratio of 1 cup to 1 gallon. Soak the clothing for an hour and then scrub the affected areas again with a brush.
"If mold is still visible, run the clothes through the washer with an additional 1 to 2 cups of white vinegar in addition to your regular laundry detergent," she says. "Add 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of baking soda to aid in the deodorization process if the vinegar or mold smell is too strong."
Yes, but to effectively kill mold, wash affected clothing in the washing machine at the highest temperature . Mold spores die at temperatures above 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit), so a colder setting won't work.
Can mold be transferred from the washing machine to clothes?
When it comes to getting ahead of winter, we often think about home maintenance before frost and snow. But what about winter home maintenance mistakes?
These 11 mistakes, shared by our experienced home construction and home maintenance experts, can lead to costly damage, moisture, mold, and a variety of other problems, including avoidable increases in energy costs.
We spoke to experienced contractors to learn how to prepare a home for the cold and what home maintenance mistakes you should never make this season.
11 Home Maintenance Mistakes You Should Never Make in Winter
1. Neglecting attic and basement insulation
(Image credit: Future/James Merrell)
As the highest and lowest points of your home, it is important to insulate the attic and basement well to reduce your energy costs and improve your home's EPC rating .
"There's no point in sealing windows and doors, but rather skimping on insulation in the attic and basement," says Meredith Blackwelder, renovation and maintenance expert at NewHomesMate . "Hot air escapes wherever it can, leading to higher energy costs."
"Broken pipes are a big problem when temperatures are extreme, and the main reason we get calls to repair broken pipes in the winter is because customers leave their pipes full of water hanging from their outdoor taps," explains Hendrik Vandepoll . Co-Owner and Master Plumber at Service Force Plumbing in Rockville, MD. "If you leave the hose connected to the faucet, it will not allow the water to flow and will hold it back, which can cause the pipe to the house to freeze and rupture."
This even applies to "frost-proof" faucets, Vandepoll warns, because the mechanism that makes them weatherproof is simply a shut-off valve deep in the wall that allows water to flow out of the pipe to prevent freezing. . However, if your hose remains connected to the device, the water will not be able to drain.
"There is a risk of a burst pipe, a flood, water damage and a plumber call," he says. "Always disconnect hoses from faucets in cold weather. »
We know how tempting it is to turn up the thermostat in your home when it's cold, but manually controlling the room temperature in your home in the winter is not only a lot of work, it can also cost money.
"This will inevitably cause you to waste energy," says Elizabeth Dodson, co-founder of HomeZada . "Instead, install a programmable thermostat to ensure maximum temperature control. »
This allows you to keep your home at the perfect equilibrium temperature that keeps you warm and comfortable, while saving energy and money by eliminating waste.
Dodson recommends the Amazon Smart Thermostat, available on Amazon , which offers instant automatic control. "It's a simple but smart, affordable model that can be used independently or with Alexa or Ring," he says. So it's a good option if you're worried about the cost of replacing a thermostat .
4. Neglecting your outdoor kitchen
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Just because summer is over, "don't forget about your outdoor kitchen," says Glenn Lewis, president of Mr. Appliance . "There's still something to do after this last meal of the year."
If you need to clean an outdoor kitchen but don't know where to start, start by cleaning your grill with a strong degreaser, like the EASY-OFF degreaser cleaner available at Walmart , which will give your grill a light olive-colored coating. Oil and turn off the gas if you have a gas grill, recommends Lewis.
"If you have an outdoor dishwasher, also turn off the water and electricity," says Lewis. "Disconnect the drain hose, drain the water in the pump and then reconnect the hose."
5. Do not disconnect or drain the irrigation.
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Just like disconnecting hoses from outdoor faucets, irrigation systems and sprinklers should also be disconnected in the winter.
"Like outdoor faucets but rather forgotten, sprinkler and irrigation systems in both the north and south need to be drained before winter as they generally have much less insulation protection, many more connections and breakpoints, and even a cold snap can damage them," says David Steckel, product and innovation manager at Sears Home Services .
Blow out your sprinkler system , disconnect hoses and winterize exposed sprinkler parts before temperatures drop, Steckel recommends.
How often should you clean your chimney ? After a long break in the summer, your fireplace will be used frequently in the winter, so it is important to pay attention to its maintenance.
"Before you light the fireplace, make sure it is safe," emphasizes Blackwelder. "Many people don't clean their chimneys as there is a risk of harmful gases accumulating."
Dodson recommends hiring a professional chimney sweep at least once a year, in the fall or winter, to remove toxic and flammable soot buildup. And "for frequent burners, I would also recommend lighting a creosote log at least once a season." These work as part of a great chimney cleaning routine.
"The most common home maintenance mistake is not checking the air conditioning or heating system before the cold season begins," says Brad Roberson, president of Aire Serv . "It is a good idea to service the system before the start of summer and winter to ensure it is ready for the cold and warm seasons."
Homeowners should also change air filters every 30 to 90 days, depending on their needs. The HVAC system also needs to be cleaned , warns Roberston. "Homeowners should also ensure that vents are not blocked and that dirt, brush and yard debris are removed from the outdoor condenser to allow for proper air circulation."
"If owners hear strange noises such as clicking noises when the system is turned on, this may indicate a problem. Strange smells like eggs can also indicate a problem with the system. Make sure the air filter is not dirty and blocking airflow.
You can check your thermostat to make sure everything is working properly.
8. Roof ventilation is not checked
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"Warm air left in the attic with nowhere to go leads to moisture, mold and ice buildup, and potentially costly damage to your home," says Blackwelder. "Before turning on the heater, check that the ventilation slots are not blocked or covered. »
With the colder temperatures of fall and winter, your roof and gutters are exposed to wet weather and freezing temperatures.
"Remember to check your roof and gutters to repair any holes and gaps, including in your home, garage or a garden structure," says Dodson.
To repair the holes, you can use a waterproof sealant, such as: B. Gorilla White Caulk & Seal, available at Walmart , which is suitable for all weather conditions and 100% waterproof. Consider using plywood sheets to plug larger holes to prevent drafts and moisture from entering.
10. Install insulation on the left side of the garage doors.
(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)
While you want as much insulation as possible in the winter, avoid installing it on the wrong side of your garage doors, says Jon Russell, systems manager at Precision Garage Door Service .
"One mistake we see is that homeowners insulate the back of their doors," he says. "The problem is that they added extra weight to the door and didn't replace the springs to properly balance the door."
