A dull and bland kitchen can suck the life out of cooking and hosting gatherings. The grease-stained cabinets, rusty and old-fashioned knobs, chipping wall paint, and ancient appliances give off a dreary vibe. And that can make even the most enthusiastic home cook feel uninspired.

If your kitchen needs a quick redo, there are many ways to bring it back to life without gutting the whole space and starting from scratch.

Let’s discuss some easy and budget-friendly ways to add life to your boring kitchen space:

• Repaint or Reinstall Kitchen Cabinets

Your kitchen cabinets draw attention without much effort. They’re one of the first things people (especially guests) notice when they enter your kitchen. If your cabinets look shabby, you can either repaint them or reinstall them.

If you choose to repaint your cabinets, ensure to use paint resistant to grease and water. You don’t want your paint job to start chipping once you use your kitchen again.

As for reinstalling, look for a kitchen remodeling company in your area that can help you out. It is a bigger project than repainting and will require the help of professionals. You can run a quick Google search by typing the required services to locate experts in your city. For instance, typing “kitchen remodeling Walnut Creek CA” will enable you to approach professionals in Walnut Creek, CA.

• Polish Your Countertops

Kitchen countertops come in many different materials – each material sees the end of its lifespan differently. For instance, if you’ve been using a butcher’s knife on your wooden countertop for the past few years, it may have deeply etched scars.

You can sand these scars and apply a fresh layer of wood finish or paint to make your countertop look new again. Similarly, if your marble countertop has lost its sheen, you can use a polishing agent to make it look shiny and new.

It’s essential to analyze your countertop material before deciding on a reviving method. You don’t want to damage your countertop beyond repair.

• Paint the Walls

Trends in wall colors come and go, but a fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your kitchen space. It can brighten up the whole room and make it feel new again. If you’re unsure what color to paint your kitchen, try a light and airy color like blue or green.

If you prefer making a bolder statement, you can always go for a dark color like black or deep purple. Just ensure the color you choose complements the rest of your kitchen. You don’t want it to clash with your cabinets or countertops. You can also create a captivating focal point by painting one wall a different color from the rest.

• Update Your Backsplash

Oil stains and gravy splatters can make your backsplash look gross and dirty. It can be tricky to tackle if you leave it to build up. The best way to avoid this is to clean your backsplash regularly. You can use a degreaser or an all-purpose cleaner to eliminate the grease and grime.

If you feel nothing you do will reclaim the lost glory of your backsplash, you can always replace it. You can choose from backsplash materials like glass, tile, or stainless steel. You can also sprinkle some creativity and use wallpaper or contact paper. And to avoid making a mess of your kitchen, you can always hire a professional to do it for you.

• Improve the Lighting

Have your children complained about the weird burnt taste in the food lately? If so, you might be burning your food while sautéing it without even knowing. The reason for this could be bad lighting in your kitchen.

If you can’t see what you’re cooking, it’s easy to make mistakes. Not to mention, bad lighting can make your kitchen look dull and dreary. The solution is simple: improve the lighting in your kitchen. You can achieve this by installing new light fixtures or adding more windows.

You can also use mirrors to reflect light and make your kitchen look brighter. Keep it classy and well under budget by visiting your local flea market for some great finds.

• Bring in the Greens

The way plants boost indoor spaces is incomparable. They improve the air quality, make the space look more inviting, and can even help you focus while cooking. If you have a windowsill, start by placing some potted plants there.

You can also hang plants from the ceiling or place them on shelves. If you’re unsure which plants to get, succulents are always a good choice. They’re low-maintenance and can thrive in most indoor spaces. You can also plant a small herb garden to add freshness to your cooking.

Parsley, basil, oregano, and mint are some of the easiest herbs to grow indoors. Not only will they make your food taste better, but they’ll also make your kitchen smell amazing.

Conclusion

So, instead of giving up and ordering take-out every night, try reviving your kitchen space with one (or all) of these tips. Trust us, your wallet and your taste buds will thank you. And who knows, maybe you’ll even start to enjoy cooking again. 

partnered post • image by Wallace Chuck from Pexels 

infographic created by Conway Services, an air conditioning company.

Windows can make a home more comfortable, light and airy while offering functional purposes such as keeping out the heat and cold. They can only do this when they are in optimal working order. If your windows need replacing, you may be wondering how much they cost. In this post, we'll explain the various factors that can affect the price.

The importance of quality windows

When your windows are not up to par, they cannot effectively stop heat from transferring through the pane, so in summer, the heat will come in, and in the winter, the heat will escape. This will result in higher electricity bills as your heating and cooling system has to work harder to maintain a desired temperature inside the home. Older styles of single-paned glass aren't up to today's glass standards, and you'll likely be paying more than you could if you were to install better quality glass. Another reason why the quality of your windows is so important is that they keep your home safe from intruders. While better quality glass won't stop potential thieves altogether, it can deter them. If your glass or windows are broken or provide an easy point of access into your home, this makes your home more vulnerable to thieves as they are more likely to target your home than others with more secure and stronger fitting glass and windows.

Different types of windows

Windows don’t just come in a one size fits all type. There are many different types of windows. Here are some of the more common ones:

• Fixed Pane Windows: Fixed pane windows look like traditional windows, featuring glass and a window frame, however, they do not open.
• Sliding Windows: This is the most common type of window found in Australian homes. They are two panes positioned in horizontal frames next to each other. Usually, one window can slide to the other side to enable the window to open.
• Single-Hung Windows: Single-hung windows are another common type of window and they have one pane positioned on top of the other. The lower pane can be lifted to let in air.
• Double-Hung Windows: Double-hung windows are essentially the same as single-hung windows, the only difference is that you can move both windows.
• Louvre Windows: Louvres consist of several sections of glass panels that can be adjusted individually to let in light and air.
• Casement Windows: Casement windows open wide which is great if you want to let a lot of light and airflow into the space.

How much can quality windows save you?

By replacing your single-paned windows with high-quality glass, you can save yourself up to $600 a year on your electricity bills. Whilst they do cost more to install, you'll quickly recoup your investment with the long-term savings you will make over the years. This is better for the environment too. If your window frames are in otherwise good condition, you can replace the glass only which can save you some money when upgrading.

Factors that can affect the price of new windows

Many things can affect the price of your new windows, here are some of them:

• How big the windows are
• Whether you need a frame and glass replacement or pane alone
• The type of glazing you choose
• The style of windows
• The type of framing material you choose (if required)
• How many windows you are replacing

How much do new windows cost?

Here is a breakdown of the average costs of having new windows installed:

Every glazier and glass company have different rates however, on average, you can expect to pay anything from $70 to $100 per hour for labour costs. Materials and supplies cost extra and will be determined based on the service you are having carried out. The better quality glass, fixings and frames you choose, the most costly it will be. The glazier may offer a slight discount if you are having a bulk number of windows installed at the one time.

Windows at the cheaper end

An entry point double glazed window starts at around $150 plus installation costs. This is typically for a small fixed window with basic framing.

Windows at the higher end

If you are choosing bigger windows that feature high-quality glass and framing, you can pay up to $1,300 per square metre.

How much does glass alone cost?

If you are happy with your framing and you are only looking to upgrade your glass, this can lower the overall cost.

Here is a general guide to give you a basic idea of what you can expect to pay. Prices typically start from:

• Float glass: $35-$40 per square metre.
• Low iron glass: $145- $150 per square metre.
• Double glazed glass: $200 – $220 per square metre.
• Low emission glass: $210 – $230 per square metre.
• Laminated glass: $300 – $330 per square metre.

What to look out for when hiring someone to install your new windows 

When choosing your Brisbane Window Installer, it’s important that they do a good job to ensure maximum efficiency and bang for your buck.

It is always wise to check the credentials of any tradesperson you hire. They should be a qualified, licenced, and insured glazier. This can give you peace of mind that you will end up with a quality finish. All glaziers need to install glass to comply with the relevant Australian Safety Standards (AS1288 and AS2208), for both windows and doors.

Before choosing a glazier, it is a good idea to ring around to ensure you are getting the best price.

Installing new windows is beneficial in more ways than one

New windows can be beneficial in more ways than one! They can help to keep your home more comfortable, reduce your energy bills and make your home more secure from potential theft. You don't only have to wait for your windows to be damaged before replacing them. The initial cost can save you money long-term, making them a worthwhile investment.

If you have been wanting to get new windows for your home, contact the glass professionals here at True Blue Glass. We service all of South East Queensland and are happy to provide friendly advice on your glass replacement options.

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Curtains by Joanne

Pests can be a real problem if they get out of hand. They can cause damage to your property and create discomfort for the inmates by spreading diseases and contaminating food supplies. 

Some pests are also dangerous to humans. For example, bed bugs can transmit diseases through their bites, and rodents carry some parasites that can be deadly for people with compromised immune systems. That's why it's so important to eliminate pests from your house before they become an infestation.

Here are seven reasons why you should hire a professional pest control company:

• They’ll Be Better at Identifying Pest Problems

Unless you're an expert, it can be difficult to identify what kind of pest is causing the problem and how best to get rid of it. Some companies specialize in certain types of pests, such as mice or cockroaches. While others can also solve termite and bug problems at home. Either way, they'll be able to create an effective Terminix pest control plan for dealing with pests like termites or any other that may be plaguing your property.

• They Have Experience Handling Different Types of Pests

Residential pest control companies have extensive experience with all types of pests and know how to deal with them effectively. They’ll be able to identify the type of pest you’re dealing with and use the right treatment method for that particular pest. While some homeowners may be able to locate the type of pest they’re dealing with, most people don’t have the time or resources necessary to properly treat their homes for pests.

• They Know How to Handle the Treatment Process Properly

Pest control technicians have received extensive training and experience in the field. Their training includes technical skills and knowledge, as well as safety precautions that must be taken when treating facilities, equipment, and materials. They know how to properly handle the treatment process and can spot potential hazards before they become problems. This means you will not be put at risk when living around insecticides or other chemicals used during treatment in your house.

• They Have Equipment and Supplies for Tough Jobs

Pest control companies typically have access to a wide range of products and equipment they can use on any size job. This includes everything from specialized equipment used to treat large areas quickly, to smaller hand tools for targeted treatments where needed. In addition, most companies offer maintenance plans that include regular visits from their experts so they can catch any issues early before they become serious problems for your household.

• Save Money

People generally think that hiring professionals is costly. However, if you follow a DIY method to fight the pest problem, eventually, you end up spending a significant amount on the same. Besides, you may end up creating more issues at home. So, it is better to hire professional services. A professional will know how to get rid of pests in your home and keep them away in the future. It will help you save money in the long run. In addition, if you have a large property, you may need them to do the job regularly.

• Save Time

Pest control can be a hassle, but these companies have the resources and expertise to quickly eliminate pests and prevent them from returning. Pest control technicians are trained to find and exterminate pests in houses of all sizes. They know how to treat an entire building or just a few rooms, depending on your needs. And they know how to kill common pests as well as those that are specific to your property and location. Hence, hiring them can help you save time and get a lasting solution. 

• Reduces Health Risks

Pests can carry diseases that are harmful to humans. In fact, some pests are so dangerous that they are classified as bio-hazards by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). These biohazards include rats, mice, cockroaches, and bed bugs. If left untreated, these pests can cause serious illnesses such as typhoid fever or dysentery among others. By hiring a professional pest control company to deal with infestations, you can reduce the risk of illness among your family members.

Final Words

Pest control is a necessary thing for every household of all sizes. As you've seen there are many benefits of getting rid of pests by a pest control company. Make sure to educate yourself on what kind of pest is infesting your house so you can give proper details to the pest control company. Pests can be harmful to your health so when it comes to pest control, you should never ignore it.

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Insight Pest

Carpets are a breeding ground for allergens, dust particles, and bacteria. According to research, one ounce of carpet dust contains over 2,000 dust mites. All that ton of filth is living right under your foot.

There is a wide range of health problems that these contaminants in your carpeting can cause, especially among the elderly and children. Even though vacuuming helps remove dust, it doesn't completely remove germs. Over time, these particles accumulate, increasing the risk of illness. 

However, with professional carpet cleaning, you can eliminate all the allergens, reducing the likelihood of health issues. If you haven't gotten your rugs cleaned in a while, now is the right time. Follow the instructions below to find a good carpet cleaner.

Search online

Searching online is simple. All you have to do is type the correct keywords into your search bar, and you can access tons of cleaning services. It doesn't matter where you live, simply type “best cleaning services” + the name of your area and find all the best options in your locality. For example, if you live in Austin, Texas, search using the keywords: rug cleaning in Austin, TX, and browse the SERPs. Repeat the same for any city you live in.

The tricky thing here is how to select the best one. That’s where website reviews come into play. You can also find customer reviews on social media platforms. Compare the company’s reliability, safety, durability, and other aspects with your shortlisted competitors. You may also want to compare the prices. Did you know you can hire deep cleaning services in Texas for as low as $9 per 2 hours? 

Company’s work experience matters

When comparing companies, find out how experienced they are. You want a company that can work safely on your carpet type. 

Professionals typically use a broom or vacuum cleaner to brush over your carpet during a deep cleaning process. If you have a costly carpet, you can also have it hand-washed at affordable rates.

Remember, every carpet is different, and some stains are more difficult to remove than others. An inexperienced carpet cleaner can still remove debris, but may have trouble identifying and treating certain stains effectively. As a result, the carpet will not be cleaned properly. Au contraire, a company with years of experience is likely to know everything about them. As a result, they will be able to eliminate unsightly stains quickly. Moreover, they’ll do it without harming your carpet or shortening its lifespan.

Trust your friends and family’s recommendations

People you know are the best resource for finding a great carpet cleaning company. There is a good chance someone in your circle of friends, colleagues, and family has recently had their carpets cleaned.

Make a list of the companies they have worked with and ask if there have been any negative experiences. This will help you avoid hiring carpet cleaners who might ruin your carpet’s look after they clean it. If you don’t know someone who recently got their carpets cleaned, searching online for experienced rug cleaners is always a good option.

Get in touch with several companies

It may be tempting to select the first company you see advertised on TV or the first one you find online, but it is important to keep searching. Getting quotes from several providers before scheduling an appointment is always a good idea. By comparing their prices and services, you can make an informed choice. Don't always trust the company with the lowest price.

Consider how helpful they were when you called. Likewise, you can expect quality service from the cleaners if you had a great experience with customer service. It is possible to overpay for services if you do not contact multiple companies. You may end up with an inexperienced cleaner in the worst-case scenario. 

Choose a company that offers the services you need

Carpets aren't the only surface that requires professional cleaning in your home. Your upholstery is exposed to just as much dirt and debris as your rugs and carpets.

When booking an appointment, ensure the company offers the services you require. Find a company that offers indoor allergy treatments if you're concerned about allergens in your home. In addition, ensure the company can clean your delicate oriental rugs.

Learn about the products they use

You might be surprised to learn that chemicals used to clean rugs can harm your health and the environment. If you have children, pets, or anyone in the home who suffers from respiratory problems, you'll want to avoid these chemicals. So look for companies that provide hypoallergenic and natural cleaners. Taking this precaution ensures children and pets are not exposed to harmful substances on the floor.

If possible, choose a dry cleaner that does not use soap. In addition to keeping dirt and debris from settling into the fibers, this helps prevent mold from forming in the padding beneath the carpet. Additionally, it will be easier for you to clean your carpets all year. As a result, the leftover soapy residue won't stick to dust, pet hair, or dander.

Customer reviews matter

You'll likely receive the same level of quality and care if you go off of a recommendation from a friend. However, if you rely on internet recommendations, research each company’s reputation.

See what past customers have said about them in the online reviews. If most reviews are positive, so are likely to have a similar experience. However, proceed with caution in case of negative reviews. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau to see if anyone has complained about the company. Don't settle for a low rating.

Ensure there are guarantees

No one likes to pay again to clean their carpets after the first cleaning didn’t do the job. Look for companies that offer guarantees on their work to ensure your safety. If you’re unsatisfied with the cleaning the first time, they’ll redo it. In addition, you won’t need to pay twice for the same service.

Conclusion

Not cleaning your carpets can invite a lot of health troubles, including allergies and breathing problems. If you are wondering where to start looking for a good carpet cleaner? It’s not that difficult. A good rug cleaning company is just a few steps away if you follow the steps above.

partnered post • image by Cottonbro on Pexels

As any homeowner knows, there are a never-ending number of things that need to be done around the house. From painting the kitchen to fixing a leaky faucet, it can sometimes feel like there’s always something that needs to be fixed. While it can be tempting to try to tackle these projects yourself to save money, some home renovation projects are best left to the professionals.

For example, many homeowners don’t know what concrete garage floor repair involves and what they should do after. Concrete garage floor repair is when experts or homeowners fix surface imperfections, like cracks. For cracks in your garage floor, experts recommend using an epoxy, polyurethane, or polyurea repair product that is sandable. These products cure and harden at a strength greater than concrete.

Here are five other home renovation projects you should never DIY: 

Plumbing

Major plumbing is onehome renovation project you should never do on your own. Plumbing is a complex system of pipes and fittings that require special tools and training to install correctly, and even a tiny mistake can cause significant problems, such as leaks, flooding, and water damage. Water leaks can cause structural damage, mold growth, and electrical problems. 

In addition, plumbing is often located in difficult-to-reach places, such as behind walls or under floors. As a result, attempting a DIY plumbing project can be dangerous and expensive. If you're considering a significant home renovation, it's always best to leave the plumbing to the professionals. 

Electrical Work

Electrical projects can be complex, and even a tiny mistake can be dangerous. Without the proper knowledge and tools, it can be easy to damage wiring or create an electrical hazard accidentally. Even if a project appears simple, it's important to remember that electricity is highly unpredictable. For these reasons, it's best to leave electrical projects to the professionals. 

Not only will they have the experience and expertise to complete the job safely, but they will also have the proper insurance in case something goes wrong. Additionally, electrical work requires a permit in most jurisdictions, so attempting to do the work yourself will likely result in a fine. It’s simply not worth the risk to try to save a few dollars by doing electrical work yourself. 

Roofing

Roofing involves working on a steep and slippery surface, which can be dangerous for even experienced contractors. In addition, roofing requires special training, tools, and equipment that most homeowners don’t have access to. In addition, roofing projects often require permits and inspections from local authorities. As a result, attempting to roof your own home is likely to end in disaster. 

Finally, many homeowners insurance policies will not cover damage caused by improper roofing techniques, meaning that you could be left financially responsible for any accidents or repairs. Not only will you put yourself at risk of injury, but you’ll also spend more money to repair the damage than if you had hired a roofing contractor in the first place. 

Structural work

Structural work is any type of construction or renovation that alters the load-bearing capacity of a home. This includes projects like adding or removing walls, screened porches, strengthening beams or columns, and raising or lowering ceilings. Although you can safely complete some light structural work on your own, significant changes should always be left to a professional, as even a tiny mistake can have serious consequences. 

For example, if a support beam is not adequately secured, it could lead to a partial or complete ceiling collapse. In addition, structural work often requires heavy machinery and tools, which can be dangerous for someone without experience. In addition, most building codes require that structural work be performed by a licensed contractor.

HVAC Installation and Repair

Although it may seem simple, HVAC systems are complex and require skilled technicians to install and maintain them properly. Attempting to install or repair an HVAC system yourself can result in severe injuries and damage to your home. 

Furthermore, HVAC systems are subject to strict safety and building codes, which must be followed for the system to operate correctly. Finally, because HVAC systems are expensive, and DIY work may void your warranty, it is crucial to ensure that they are installed and repaired correctly to avoid costly repairs or replacements down the road. 

While some home renovation projects are simple enough to do on your own, others are best left to the professionals. By understanding which projects you should never DIY, you can save time, money, and aggravation. If you’re unsure where to start with your next home renovation project, work with a professional who can help you plan and execute it successfully.

partnered post • image by Roselyn Tirado at Unsplash

It is almost always the best rule of thumb to call an exterminator when dealing with bed bugs. Even if you only notice a few in your home, chances are that there's more where they came from! DIY pest control is rarely effective, and never is it really the best course of action to take. Bed bugs are aggressive and quickly multiply, which is why time is of the essence and acting quickly is a requirement.

Of course, you may still not feel entirely convinced that you need professional exterminators to remove the problem. Below, we will discuss the most common signs and symptoms that you should pick up the phone and make that appointment as soon as possible!

• You Start To Notice Bed Bug Bites

Bed bugs do bite, and oftentimes, most people have some type of reaction or sensitivity to these bites. From simple hives to more severe itchy rashes, it is important to take the problem seriously from the start. Though physical symptoms will vary from one individual to the next, it is always important to consider the psychological effects of dealing with a bed bug infestation. Having insects in your home can make it feel unclean or unsafe, regardless of how much you clean, organize, and declutter your space. Working with exterminator services will ensure that the bed bugs are entirely eliminated, and you can feel safe in your bedroom again!

• You Notice A Concentration Of Bed Bugs

Though bed bugs, by nature, are quite small, it doesn't mean they're completely invisible. In fact, it is possible to see them concentrated in a certain area of your mattress. Though unlike other insects, bed bugs don't live in colonies or form nests, they do visibly multiply. If you see that the concentration of bugs is progressively worsening, it is high time to call in pest control services. Oftentimes, waiting to get help will mean that the bugs have even more time to cause damage or wreak havoc on your household.

• The Bed Bugs Are On The Move

As a rule of thumb, bed bugs by nature tend to keep out of sight and live on your mattress or hidden in your furniture. However, this by no means is a rule. In fact, bed bugs can actually infest other parts of your home, such as your windowsill, outlets, and even behind pictures on the wall. If you notice that the infestation seems to move to other areas of your home, it is definitely a sign that everything is spiralling out of control. It is not normal for bed bugs to migrate regularly, but when they start spreading, it does show that the problem is worse than what you were initially led to believe.

• The Bed Bugs Aren’t Going Away

You may have thought you had the infestation under control, but if you start to notice that the problem still persists, it shows that the issue is far from over. Bed bugs can and will keep coming back as long as they aren't adequately exterminated the first time around. No homeowner deserves to have to deal with the persistence of insects, which is why it's always advisable to hire professionals from the get-go!

What Can Bed Bug Pest Control Services Do For You?

The first step after calling bed bug exterminator service is that a knowledgeable technician will perform a thorough inspection of your property. During this time, they will assess the situation and consider the depth of the infestation that you have. Pest control professionals are able to identify precisely where the problem originates and how the bed bugs are able to come into your home. This is useful in helping control the situation from its root cause. Additionally, you will also discover just where the bed bugs are staying in your home, and oftentimes, it's a wake-up call that the problem is worse than you initially believed.

Depending on the situation and the extent of the infestation, a game plan is developed by professionals. Every infestation is different, which is why companies never use a one-size-fits-all approach. Once the solution is discussed with the homeowner, the technician will work to control the situation and remove the insects effectively. Usually, insecticides, as well as a number of other tools, are used. However, it's worth noting that all equipment is used responsibly to ensure the health and safety of everyone in your household.

If your infestation is severe enough, you may need to consider getting follow-up treatments. This is actually more common than you think and is by no means a reflection on you as a homeowner. Having a professional regularly maintain your property will offer you peace of mind while ensuring that the infestation never again occurs. All situations are different, but sometimes, extra visits are necessary to ensure complete elimination.

partnered post • cc-licensed image by the Armed Forces Pest Management Bureau

When you intend to tile your home and outdoor areas, you will have to choose from a selection. In this process, you will find several types of materials, and one significant type would be porcelain. 

Porcelain is durable and strong and is usually used for floor spaces and outdoor environments like patios, kitchens, bathrooms, and other home areas. 

However, before choosing porcelain, you need to understand what it is, where to use it, and how to maintain it. So read on to find all you need to know about porcelain before installing it. 

Let’s begin.

What is Porcelain?

Primarily, porcelain is a type of ceramic. However, the materials it is made from and the heat at which it is fired usually make it more hard-wearing and durable than traditional ceramic.

As a result, outdoor porcelain tiles are a more popular option when creating a patio area in your garden or outdoor areas. They are resistant to water, frost resistant, and very durable. When choosing one for your garden spaces, choose a design with an anti-slip finish. 

You can also choose from the other designs like the stone effect and the stylish wood. A popular trend is to create an indoor to an outdoor space where the floor continues outdoors to get a seamless transition.

Where Porcelain Can Be Used

Porcelain is available in several styles, sizes, colors, and shapes. So you can use them wherever you like in your home and garden. 

However, because of porcelain qualities which include water resistance, frost resistance, and high durability, they can be perfect for outdoor spaces, bathrooms, and gardens. Also, hallways are another good palace where you can use them since they tend to receive frequent foot traffic. 

How To Care For Porcelain

If your porcelain is polished, you shouldn't use bleach, steam cleaners, or other strong alkaline or acidic cleaning solutions since they can cause damage to the seal. Instead, when you want to clean your porcelain tile, either polished or unpolished, warm water and mild detergent can do the job. 

If you intend to use chemicals to remove stubborn stains, you should only use those with low chemical concentrations.

Styles and Designs Of Porcelain 

With the advancement in manufacturing, you can get porcelain in several designs, styles, shapes, sizes, and colors. They can include beautiful mosaics, hexagons, geometric patterns or lifelike stone effects, and realistic wood effects. 

Porcelain can replace wallpaper, paint, hardwood flooring, and even laminate. There are also stylish alternatives for patio slabs and decking in your garden. 

Conclusion

Before purchasing porcelain tiles, you should know everything there is to know about them. Ensure you have a good idea of the style and color of the porcelain you intend to purchase before visiting a showroom. Search for decorating inspirations to see which design or color you gravitate towards. 

Use the tips mentioned above to ensure your choice is right before heading to your local showroom. Also, you can speak with a flooring consultant to confirm your choice suits your needs.

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Dustin Oliver

People are usually surrounded by a mix of smells – some pleasant, others not so much. Most homeowners struggle with finding the right balance so their homes can always smell fresh. Here are a few simple tips to help you achieve this.

Make Your Own Potpourri

Potpourri is an old-fashioned, traditional way of using herbs, spices, and flowers to freshen up a room. You can make potpourri at home with just a few ingredients. You can even use the same herbs and spices that you use in cooking to create a sweet smell.

The best part about making your potpourri is that it is almost effortless! You only need two ingredients: dried herbs and flowers. If you don't have any dried herbs or flowers on hand, don't worry, you can subscribe to get your flowers regularly, so you always have a fresh batch to use. You can also invest in sweet-smelling house plants to make your house smell fresh.

Simmer Cinnamon Sticks and Apple Slices

Cinnamon sticks help to keep the air in your house clean and fresh, while apples can be used as a natural deodorizer. You can add them to a pot of water and let it simmer for a few hours or overnight. The cinnamon will stick to the apples as they cook, making them smell wonderful!

Use Odor-Eliminating Candles

Whether trying to get rid of pet urine odors or keep your home smelling fresh, keeping an odor-eliminating candle on hand is a great place to start. Odor-eliminating candles work by emitting a scent that traps air molecules and keeps them away from furnishings. That means no more lingering odors that make you feel uncomfortable.

Give Your Trash Can a Break

It's easy to take your trash can for granted. It's just there, doing its job, and you don't think about it much. But when you do think about it, you realize that there are some things you can do to make your trash can cleaner. Here are some tips on how to keep it smelling fresh:

1. Change Your Trash Can Bags Regularly: The average person throws out around two bags of trash per day, so each week, you throw away about 14 bags! That's a lot of waste going into trash cans. If you don't change the bag in the can, leftover trash will begin accumulating and emitting a foul stink.
2. Clean Out Your Trash Can Often: If you notice any odors coming from your trash can, clean it immediately before those smells build up. The longer you let the stench stay, the worse it'll get.

Fill a Small Dish with Vanilla

You can use a little vanilla bean in a small dish to make your house smell fresh or add a few drops of vanilla extract to a candle or air freshener. This is one fragrance that not only smells great but it makes your home more welcoming.

Set Out Baking Soda

Baking soda is an inexpensive yet easy way to make your home smell fresh, but you need to set it out in discreet places for it to be effective. You can sprinkle baking soda around the bottom of your trash cans or put it in a spray bottle and spritz it all over the floor. The idea is that the baking soda absorbs odors and leaves behind a pleasant scent.

Piled-Up Laundry

Having a clean home is a great way to ensure your kids don't get sick and that you and your partner aren't fighting over who will do the laundry when you're a busy family. But can you imagine what your home would smell like if all of your laundry was left piled up?

Laundry piles are bad for the environment and even worse for your health. They emit toxic chemicals into the air, which can cause respiratory issues for those who live close to them. 

If you want to keep your home odor-free, it's important to inventory all the clothes that need to be washed before putting them away. Also, consider using environmentally-friendly detergents that won't cause damage to your clothes.

Put Out Fresh Linens

When you have freshly-laundered linens in your home, it has a subtle scent that makes it feel like a warm, welcoming place. It's not just about the smell of clean clothes – it's also what other people think when they come over.

If you're looking to add a little extra pep to your home and keep it feeling fresh and clean, consider putting some new linen on your bed. You'll be amazed by how much better it feels when you wake up!

Get Some Fresh Air

If you want to make your house smell good, open the windows and let some fresh air in. This is especially important in the summertime when indoor air is stagnant. There are many ways to freshen up an indoor environment, but none are more effective than opening a window. 

You can also place a fan somewhere close to the seating area in a room so air can circulate throughout the room.

Conclusion

There are many methods to get your house smelling fresh. You don't always need a special diffuser or expensive oils. All you need are smart ideas like the ones we've listed, and you're good to go. Try a few of these ideas and see what works best for you. They will help eliminate unpleasant odors and make your home smell like heaven.

partnered post • photos from Unsplash

Every house owner aims to keep their home up to date with all the new housing trends. After all, a home is the largest investment one can make. But the dilemma is how to upgrade your home without blowing your budget? Here’s how. 

Paint Your Interiors

If the interior of your space is still covered with an old, dull coat of paint, it’s time to refresh your walls. Painting all the walls in your home with the same colors or maybe a combination of two could drastically affect its overall aesthetic appeal. Plus, the idea is budget-friendly and doesn’t require much time.

Power Clean Your Doors and Windows 

One of the reasons why your home looks old and dull is because you don’t clean your home surfaces often. Doors, windows, and other surfaces tend to collect dirt and dust more often and quickly, which takes away all their shine and degrades their value. Hence, it’s imperative that all the surfaces of your home go through regular dusting and cleaning. Don’t let your lazy self come in the way and tell you to postpone the cleaning task to the next week.

Look for all the Fixtures

Another brilliant way to upgrade your home is to look for all the possible fixtures and get them repaired or replaced, if needed, at the earliest. Be it replacing your old, noisy air conditioner with a smart window air conditioner, repairing door locks, or getting a new faucet, make sure you take the initiative or ask any other family member to get done with all the fixtures.

Paint Kitchen Cabinets

Your kitchen feels bland and wearisome because all those dark-textured cabinets have sucked all the light out of the room. Now, this does not mean that you need to replace your cabinets with new ones. As long as all the frames and doors are structurally sound, you can just clean them up and refresh them with a new coat of paint that compliments the overall theme of your kitchen. This will give an overall new look to your kitchen. 

Update Cabinet Handles 

While reviving the kitchen cabinets with a new color is an awesome idea, how about if you update the handles too? Wouldn’t it add that finishing touch to your kitchen? Of course, it will. If you think the handles have become hard for frequent use or they’ve lost their shine, replacing them with new and trendy handles would be a smart and affordable option. Plus, if you get similar services from a single company, you might also get a good discount. 

Revive the Outdoor Space

Another interesting idea to upgrade the look of your house is to work on the outdoor setting. Reviving your outdoor living area doesn’t require you to have big or expensive additions, a few small and thoughtful changes can also work wonders to change the aesthetic appeal of your entire house. The idea is to change the old setting with some refreshing and trending ideas to make it look upgraded. 

So, these were a few of the home improvement tips that are quick to follow and budget-friendly. 

partnered post • photo: a 100 year old kitchen gets an affordable facelift with new fixtures & lighting