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Budget-Friendly Ideas to Freshen Up Indoor Spaces
Whetheryou’re fatigued by seeing the same decor every day or simply looking for an opportunity to refresh indoor spaces with an appealing mini makeover, rethinking your favorite room in the house doesn’t need to be an expensive ordeal.
Even if your budget is tight, you can still make small changes to transform a room. Consider these ideas:
* Bring stylish flair to your space with a new color scheme. Rather than replacing all the furniture, which can be costly, focus on smaller accessory pieces such as pillows and dec-
orative items. Create variety by using multiple hues of the same color or mixing two or more complementary colors.
* Introduce new accent furniture. Smaller and less costprohibitive than centerpieces like a couch, for example, accent pieces such as end tables or a coffee table can provide subtle changes to the look of a room. You could also opt to refinish a piece of furniture you have on-hand to create a look that’s all your own.
* Morph your room by simply rearranging what you already own. Adjusting the orientation of your furniture
and decor can let you see your favorite room from a whole new perspective.
* Whether it’s a flea market find, such as an old window frame that you paint and add a display shelf to the base, or a series of photos from your favorite vacation destination, adding some DIY art can not only update your room, but make it more personal, too.
A new look for your favorite room can go a long way, so find ways to update your space for a comfy retreat you can enjoy. Find more ideas at eLivingtoday.com.
Source: Family Features
Home Humidity
Understanding the importance of humidity control
Frank Landwehr creators.com
Humidity simply refers to the amount of moisture in the air. Breaking down the math, relative humidity is the percentage of water vapor that's in the air at a certain temperature. When the relative humidity is at 30%, for example, the air is holding 30% of the moisture it's capable of containing.
During colder months, the air's ability to hold water decreases, while during warmer months, it increases. The ideal relative humidity level for the inside of your home is 30% to 50 %. This is important because the level of humidity in your home can impact your overall health and comfort - and potentially affect the cost of heating or cooling your home.
If humidity levels are too high, you run the risk of:
• Mold and bacteria growth.
• Stuffy conditions.
• Overall discomfort.
If humidity levels are too low, you run the risk of:
• A cold or infection.
• Dry and itchy skin.
• Damage to the wood, paint or siding of your house.
Source: AC & Heating Connect
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Corded vs. Cordless Tools
Which way to go? It’s a debate going on since cordless power tools first hit the scene. Here are the pros and cons of each:
Frank Mariani creators.com
Cordless Tools Pros:
+ Powerful Battery Technology Cordless tools employ lightweight lithium-ion battery whose power doesn’t diminish over time if the battery is properly maintained. Batteries should also be interchangeable with other power tools of the same make.
+ Storage Ease of storage is a big plus. Most cordless tools come with durable containers to house it and its accompanying batteries.
+ Portability Cordless tools allow you to maneuver and move about freely without the hazard of tripping or tangling a cord.
Cordless Tools Cons:
+ Battery Life Even the best battery will run out of power. Workers can forget to charge a battery after they have finished or lose a battery altogether. Cordless power tool performance also starts to suffer as the power gets drained.
+ Bulk and Heft The convenience of an attached battery adds extra weight and bulk. While most lithium-ion batteries are lightweight, the weight does depend on the tool and the voltage to power larger devices.
Corded Tools Pros:
+ Dependable Power Continuous means never running out of power. Corded power tools will almost always be able to offer greater torque than a cordless tool performing the same function.
+ Better Runtime Cordless power tool runtime varies. A corded tool can operate indefinitely while outlets are
operational. Corded tools such as table saws provide better performance. It can be easier to operate larger corded tools that do not need to be toted around Corded Tools Cons
+ Limited Mobility Corded tools keep you tethered to the wall—even if you use an extension cord. Power cords also create a tripping hazard. Additionally, with power saws and routers, cords can potentially be cut, rendering the tool useless.
+ Difficult to Store Because of the cord, corded tools can be a challenge to store. Owners must get creative in how they store and keep corded tools from being damaged. Wide shelves, fasteners and deep storage bins are all options to properly store corded power tools.
Source: Grainger
Go Green with Home Cleaners
Family Features
If you’re among those looking for ways to clean your home while also going green, it may be easier than you think.
Consider these easy and affordable solutions to help you live more environmentally friendly. You may be surprised to find you already have many of these household products on hand.
Baking soda:
A natural, safe, effective and gentle solution, baking soda can serve multiple home cleaning needs. Make a paste of three parts baking soda to one part water. Rub onto silver with a clean cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly and dry for shining serving or decor pieces. Additionally, you can sprinkle baking soda on upholstery and carpet to get rid of odors.
Vinegar:
With the acidity to help get rid of dirt and grime around the home, vinegar can be used to clean cloudy glassware. Simply soak paper towels or a cloth in full-strength white distilled vinegar and wrap around both the inside and outside of the glass. Let sit before rinsing clean. To remove lime deposits on your tea kettle, add 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar to the water and let it sit overnight. In the morning, boil the vinegar for a few minutes then rinse with water.
Lemons:
With a fresh, natural smell, lemons have the acidity to remove soap scum, clean and shine brass and remove hard water deposits. Just spray some lemon juice on tile sur-
faces to remove soap scum or hard water deposits. Squeeze lemon juice on a cloth and use to polish brass around the home.
Houseplants: Plants serve as natural air
purifiers. African violets and ferns are beautiful ways to help clear the air.
Other easy, green ideas for keeping your home clean include opening windows and doors while you clean to
improve air quality and taking off your shoes when you come inside, which can help avoid tracking dust, dirt, pollen and more throughout the house. Visit eLivingtoday.com for more eco-friendly advice. Source: eLivingtoday.com
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Herbal Hibernation
The
experts’ advice on bringing outdoor plants inside for the winter
Kristen Castillo Creators.com
Your plants have had a great run outdoors during the spring and summer, but that doesn’t mean they’re doomed to wither away in the fall and winter. Gardening experts say it may take some extra work, but outdoor plants can often thrive indoors under the right conditions.
“Bringing outdoor plants inside for the winter can be tricky,” says Roman Gonzalez, founder and CEO of Gardenio, a socially conscious garden club with an app and online community. Gardenio is on a mission to help people grow their own food and inspire the next generation of lifelong gardeners. “Depending on where you are located, winter brings less sun, and sun is crucial for plants to thrive. However, there are some ways to ensure your plants survive.”
He stresses the importance of making sure your plants get as much sun as possible. Often that means placing them in the most southern-facing window. If your home doesn’t provide enough natural light, consider investing in LED grow lights as a supplemental light source.
It’s also smart to have a fan to improve circulation. Gonzalez explains that herbs do well when their soil is kept regularly
damp. But that damp soil can be problematic because indoor air circulation is stagnant.
“This stale environment can breed a lot of fungus related diseases for your plant or unwanted pests,” he says, noting a small fan near the plants can keep air circulating, which can help keep soil fresh.
Tips for Indoor Success
Before moving plants indoors, check carefully for pests.
“Look under the leaves, in the crotches of the plant and along the stems,” says gardening expert Jessica Walliser, author of “Gardener’s Guide to Compact Plants.” Walliser recommends using a strong stream of water to dislodge pests. Use a lightweight horticultural oil to treat bad infestations before bringing the plants indoors.
A blogger at Savvy Gardening cautions gardeners not to fertilize plants that have been moved indoors.
“They will take time to adjust to their new surroundings, including reduced light levels,” she says. “New growth and flowering should be discouraged.”
The plant may shed leaves and grow new ones indoors. That’s normal, says Walliser, explaining that’s how a plant adjusts to new light levels.
Be aware of water needs, too. Plants kept indoors aren’t in an
active state of growth during the winter and don’t need lots of water. Plus, overwatering could result in fungus gnats.
Plants kept in a garage or cold basement, such as angel trumpets, plumbago, red bananas and hibiscus, will be dormant during the off-season.
“Keep them slightly above freezing for the winter, and trim off the leaves as they die,” she says. “Water only once every eight weeks.”
Cold-Hardy Plants
Not every plant has to be brought inside to thrive. Gonzalez says cold-hardy plants, including kale, beets and Brussels sprouts, do well outdoors in chilly temperatures.
“Plants can hold a lot of energy in their roots over the winter,” says Gonzalez. “For any noncold-hardy plants, aka plants that can’t survive a freeze, the whole idea is you’re trying to prevent the roots from freezing.”
He says foliage often freezes, and the gardener can cut the plant back. Then, in the spring, the plant will come back. The goal is to make sure the roots don’t freeze, or the plant will die.
In warmer areas, such as Gonzalez’s home state of Texas, winters are milder. He can keep many plants outside, unless the temperatures drop below freezing. He advises either bringing the plants inside for a few days until the freeze passes or dressing your plants in plant jackets. “Most of them will protect your plant down to about 25 degrees or so,” he says. “Below that, definitely bring them inside.”
If you plan to keep plants outdoors, use sturdy containers to keep them insulated. Plant them closer to your house or an outdoor heat source. Gonzalez even advises hanging string lights for added warmth.
Seasons Change
Don’t be disheartened if your outdoor plants don’t do well indoors. Your love of gardening can live on, and there’s always another season.
“Remember that nature has a cycle, and that’s OK. Plants dying is a perfectly fine thing, so don’t be bummed out if your plant does die,” says Gonzalez. “You can always grow more. But if you can keep it going, why not?”
Embrace the Greenery with Vertical
Maximize space and bring the outdoors in
Aaron Brown Creators.com
In today’s world where urban living often means sacrificing green spaces, indoor gardening has emerged as a popular trend for those seeking to reconnect with nature within the confines of their homes. It stands out as an innovative and space-efficient way to bring the tranquility of nature indoors. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, creating your own vertical garden can be a rewarding and aesthetically pleasing endeavor.
Embracing Vertical Space
Vertical gardening utilizes wall-mounted planters, hanging baskets or tiered shelves to maximize space and create a lush green oasis within your home. Not only does it add a touch of greenery to your living space, but it also serves as a creative way to display your favorite plants and herbs. Here’s how you can get started.
Selecting the Right Plants
When diving into the world of vertical gardening, it’s essential to choose plants that thrive in indoor environments and complement the aesthetic of your space. Herbs such as basil, thyme and mint are perfect for beginners and add both flavor and fragrance to your home. Succulents and trailing plants such as pothos, philodendrons and spider plants are also excellent choices for vertical gardens due to their adaptability and low maintenance requirements.
Choosing
the Right Containers
When it comes to containers for vertical gardening, the options are endless. Wall-mounted planters, hanging basket, and
tiered shelves allow you to customize your vertical garden to suit your style and space constraints. Opt for containers with proper drainage to prevent waterlogging and ensure the health of your plants. Additionally, consider the weight-bearing capacity of your walls or ceilings when selecting containers to avoid any structural issues.
Installation and Placement
Once you’ve gathered your plants and containers, it’s time to map out your vertical garden. Choose a well-lit area with sufficient sunlight for
your plants to thrive. Southor west-facing windows are ideal for most indoor plants, but if natural light is limited, supplement with artificial grow lights to ensure optimal growth. When installing wall-mounted planters or shelves, use sturdy anchors or hooks to support the weight of the containers and prevent accidents.
Planting and Maintenance
With your containers in place, it’s time to get your hands dirty and start planting. Begin by filling each container with a nutrient-
rich potting mix, leaving enough space for the roots to grow. Plant your chosen herbs or greenery, ensuring they’re properly spaced to allow for growth. Water your vertical garden regularly, being careful not to overwater or underwater your plants. Monitor for signs of pests or disease and address any issues promptly to keep your garden thriving.
Creative Design Ideas
Vertical gardening offers endless possibilities for creative expression and design. Experiment with different
Vertical Gardening
plant combinations, colors and textures to create visual interest and depth. Mix and match containers of varying sizes and shapes to add dimension to your vertical garden. Consider incorporating trailing plants to add a cascading effect or hanging baskets to create a floating garden oasis. Don’t be afraid to let your imagination run wild and create a unique botanical masterpiece that reflects your personal style.
Indoor vertical gardening is more than just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle choice that
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, creating your own vertical garden can be a rewarding and aesthetically pleasing endeavor.
brings nature closer to home. Whether you have a sprawling living room or a compact apartment, vertical gardening allows you to make the most of your space and indulge your green thumb yearround. With the right plants and containers and a dash of creativity, you can transform any wall or corner into a vibrant and thriving indoor garden that nourishes the body and soul. So why wait? Roll up your sleeves, grab your gardening tools and let the beauty of nature blossom indoors.
Infuse Living Spaces With Color
Family Features
From experiences to surroundings, the past year has brought a renewed focus on feeding the soul. In an era of overstimulation and information overload, many are finding a new appreciation for living life minimally but with maximum experiences.
Appliances
In the past, appliances were meant to blend into the decor to be less obvious, albeit essential, elements of a kitchen. A more contemporary approach: vibrant appliances that get noticed. You can find major appliances in a wide range of colors, but if you’re not sure about going that big and bold, many smaller countertop appliances, such as stand mixers and toasters, come in a range of colorful options, too.
Architecture
When contemplating where and how to apply color to a space, avoid boxing in your options. Think beyond
traditional wall space when planning ways to change the color in a space; be thoughtful with color and highlight architectural details to elevate the interest and charm in your home. Take a 360-degree immersive color approach, painting the same shade from floor to ceiling and all around to create a mood-boosting lift to a room.
To infuse more color and boldness into your space, consider a timeless and elegant shade of red, like HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams’ 2021 Color of the Year. This paint color, “Passionate,” is a deeply saturated hue that is daringly rich and invigorates the senses. This bold and empowering red is steeped in history, merging modern design with traditional charm.
Furniture
Whether you’re into project pieces you can transform into something new or simply shopping for furnishings that complement your space, be sure to consider how the furniture fits into the overall color scheme. Selecting furniture that fits with the design brings a more cohesive and stylized feel to the room. For example, a desk and bookshelves in pale natural hues can lend warmth to an office with walls painted a cool dynamic blue.
Cabinets
Painted cabinets are ontrend, and if you’re bored with basic whites and grays, you’re not alone. Designers are going bold in the kitchen and using cabinetry as a showpiece. These color palettes create inspiring spaces that invite you to get busy baking or simply pull up a chair and linger over a cup of coffee.
If you’re concerned about how to bring a color palette together, consider using a collection that has been intentionally curated to mix and match shades for a perfect look no matter which hues you choose. You can easily achieve a new look with an option like the Delightfully Daring Color Collection from HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams. With earthy tones inspired by nature and a dose of vibrancy, the shades are simultaneously energizing and calming. The palette makes it easy to introduce statement colors in unexpected ways so you can feel confident in your selections. Get inspired to bring healing design elements into your own home at hgtvhomebysherwinwilliams.com.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY MEETS AFFORDABILITY
DIY Compost Saves Money
Reusing waste is great for your garden and your wallet
Jeff Rugg Creators.com
Instead of spending money to have your yard waste picked up and hauled off to a composting facility and then turning around and buying organic matter for the garden and flower beds, why not just do it yourself? Compost has many sources and many uses. It is mostly decayed organic matter. The most common ingredients are leaves, grass clippings, dead plants and kitchen scraps from fruits and vegetables. Do not use animal products from the kitchen because they decompose slowly and attract pests. By returning composted organic matter to the garden, you can improve plant growth. It adds nutrients, loosens clay soil for roots, water and air and improves the soil’s structure. Just as grass benefits from having the nutrients in its clippings recycled back into the lawn, trees also benefit from having their nutrients returned to them. If there are just a few leaves, mow them a few times to break them into small pieces that will filter down to the soil. Larger quantities of leaves can be composted and added back to the tree as mulch.
Keeping your compost pile in a bin will keep the area tidy. A bin can be purchased or made from snow fenc -
ing, wire fencing or concrete blocks. The most important feature of any bin is that air must be able to circulate on all sides. The ability to cover it to keep rain out is also helpful.
Making compost is not very difficult if you follow a few basic principles. First, bacteria and fungi do the work, so they must be added and given the proper conditions to grow. They are added through the incorporation of soil into the pile or by storebought inoculants.
Any plant material is food for these microorganisms. They use carbon in the food for energy and nitrogen for making protein. They grow fastest and break down organic matter quicker when the carbon to nitrogen ratio is about 30:1. Leaves are naturally about 60:1 and grass clippings are about 19:1. Two bags of grass clippings to one bag of leaves will provide a good nutrient balance for the microbes. If you have been leaving the clippings on the lawn all year (that’s great), it is OK to use some for the compost.
The best place for the pile is in a shady, well drained, out-of-view (to you and the neighbors) location. The pile must be kept damp like a wrung-out sponge. If the pile dries out the decomposition slows down, and if it is too soggy fermentation may start.
A compost pile of about five feet by five feet works best. It is large enough to retain the heat generated by decomposition and small enough to allow interior air
circulation essential to prevent fermentation and sour odors.
The interior of the pile will reach a temperature of 130 to 170 degrees in about one week. The heat will kill many insect eggs, weed seeds and disease organisms. In two to three weeks the temperature will drop, and the pile will need to be mixed by turning it inside-out. Turning the pile after each peak in temperature will speed up the process.
The compost will be ready in two to six months, depending on the temperature and type of organic matter used. Virtually no decay takes place when the temperature is below the 40s. It is ready to use when it is dark brown, uniformly crumbly and has a sweet, earthy smell.
A properly maintained compost pile doesn’t smell bad. If it starts to smell rotten, it is either too wet or not getting enough air circulation. Turning it, mixing in more coarse material such as wood chips and covering it to keep out rain will help. If it is too dry, try cupping the top so it will gather rainwater. If it is only moist and warm in the middle, it is probably too small. If the pile won’t heat up, add nitrogen from organic fertilizer like bloodmeal, manure or grass clippings.
Composting is an easy and cost-effective method of returning precious organic matter back to your plants and fixing clay soil problems.
Jeff Rugg’s weekly column, “A Greener View,” can be found at creators.com.
