Tuesday, March 31, 2020

Create an Advent Egg Calendar...


Courtesy of H. Camille Smith, Farima Alavi, and Maria Conti
Photo By: Sarah Busby; Styling by H. Camile Smith

Happy Easter Friends,

Create excitement for the season by creating an Easter Sunday countdown calendar out of colorful, plastic eggs. Upcycle a wicker basket from the back of your closet, and lay down faux moss as your base. Add twelve, numbered eggs to the moss and sweeten the deal by adding a small candy treat to enjoy with the passing of each day. Get the instructions here>>>

Countdown starts tomorrow...

Check back for more great ideas from your friends at Interior Design.

Your kind contribution will allow us to continue sharing great, no cost and cost saving ideas for your space. Click the "Donate" button below to make a contribution. Thank you!





Live well,
Yvonne

Tuesday, March 24, 2020

Spots You're Missing That Professionals Always Clean


Courtesy of Leanne Potts
Photo By: David Duncan Livingston

Hi Friends,

Homekeeping experts know that the key to having a sparkling clean home means paying attention to details. See the top spots they recommend cleaning.

Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and they may make money from these links.

You make your bed every day, dust once a week, and keep the books on your shelves arranged just so... but, you’re still missing some spots. Crud can sneak up on you! From the baseboards to the back of the toilet, we asked the pros about the places they always clean and how to get them spotless - "The Dirty Truth" .

From: Ann Lowengart

Window Tracks

Photo By: Eric Roth
From: Martha's Vineyard Interior Design

Even if you clean your windows, you’re probably forgetting about the tracks, says Becky Rapinchuk, the author of "Simply Clean" who dispenses housekeeping advice at CleanMama.net. "You open the window, and it’s like, 'Ew, it’s all black dirt!'" Rapinchuk says. Use a scrub brush to loosen the dirt, and wipe it clean with a microfiber cloth dipped in hot, soapy water, she says.

In Between the Stove and Countertop

From: Elizabeth Lawson

Mind the gap! It’s a magnet for crumbs, splatters, and little bits of whatever food you’ve prepared in the kitchen. Scrape out crumbs with the tip of a butter knife, then spray a countertop cleaner on a paper towel and wipe the gap. A vacuum with a narrow attachment can suck out the crumbs and goo, too.

Baseboards
x
Photo By: Flynnside Out Productions

They’re not at eye level so they get overlooked, Rapinchuk says. And they collect dust and dirt and get grungy. She cleans them with a microfiber cloth dipped in a mix of warm water and castile soap. She also recommends vacuuming where the baseboard touches the carpet because dirt and dust collect there. "Clean baseboards will make your room look so much brighter and better," she says.

Buy Castile Soap: Target, $15.79

Behind the Refrigerator

Photo By: Shirry Dolgin
From: Shirry Dolgin

It’s freakin' dirty behind your refrigerator. "No one cleans there, ever," Rapinchuk says. "To most people, it’s scary to move a big appliance." Get someone to help you move it out from the wall just enough to vacuum the dust, dirt and lint that collects around it. Rapinchuk uses a Miele vacuum with a Flexible Crevice Nozzle attachment that’s long and thin enough to clean behind and under the fridge without moving it.

Buy Miele Vacuum: Williams Sonoma, $699.95

Utensil Drawer


You touch it every day, many times a day, so the utensil drawer collects dirt and germs from hands and food debris. "People don’t notice the crumbs in the corners or the peanut butter smears on the tray," says Elizabeth Worrell Sprinkle, owner of Bienville Cleaning Service in Mobile, Alabama. Pull out the utensils and the flatware tray, wipe out the inside of the drawer with a damp cloth and run the tray through the dishwasher, Sprinkle says.

Faucet Aerator

Photo By: Tomas Espinoza
From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Faucet heads harbor mold, bacteria, mildew, lime build-up, and food particles. And most people never clean it, Sprinkle says. "It can make your water taste funky when it’s dirty," she adds. Scrub it with a toothbrush dipped in vinegar or a lime dissolver. "That brush comes out black with mold when I scrub (the aerator)."

Shower Door Track

From: m monroe design

Even people who clean their bathrooms miss the track in metal shower doors, Sprinkle says. "It can get filthy, [and] make a bathroom smell bad." Dirty shower door tracks can also be a haven for bacteria, mold and mildew. Sprinkle cleans them with a scrub brush and Soft Scrub Multi-Purpose Kitchen and Bathroom Cleanser.

Buy Soft Scrub Bathroom Cleanser: Target, $3.79

Toothbrush Holder and Other Small Bathroom Items

Photo By: Eric Perry, DIY Network/Scripps Networks, LLC

Even people who keep a spotless bathroom miss the crust of toothpaste that coats toothbrush holders. "For the love of God, people, clean your toothbrush holder. It gets disgusting," Sprinkle says. She also suggests cleaning any other items sitting around the bathroom, like that jar of cotton swabs and the facial tissue holder, because bacteria spreads around a bathroom. She recommends giving everything an antiseptic scrub.

Knobs, Handles & Light Switches

Photo By: Scripps Network, LLC

Dirty hands grab light switches, door knobs and cabinet handles dozens of times a day, so it should be obvious that these germy spots need disinfecting. But they don’t get cleaned, Rapinchuk says. Wipe down these bacteria hotbeds when you clean the kitchen and bathroom. Don’t forget to clean the plate around the light switch, too, because it gets grungy.

Backs of Toilets

Photo By: Tomas Espinoza
From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Everybody cleans the inside and top of a commode. But the back of the toilet, especially where it attaches to the floor, needs some TLC, too. If you live with boys, there’s likely to be pee stains back there that can make your bathroom smell like a truck stop urinal. It’s a gross job you can make less miserable with a tool like OXO’s Extendable Tub and Tile Scrubber that makes it easier to reach all the cracks and crevices.

Buy OXO Scrubber: Amazon, $12.99

Kitchen Trash Can

Photo By: Valerie Mina

Another overlooked spot: The inside of kitchen trash cans. Leftover food debris falls out of trash bags and collects at the bottom, making the can smelly and harboring bacteria. Get it clean by hosing out the gunk, spraying with a disinfectant, and scrubbing it till it’s squeaky clean. Wipe down the outside of the can, too, because food goo and germs collect there.

If you have help cleaning, these tips will help you helpers...

Check back for more great ideas from your friends at Interior Design.

Your kind contribution will allow us to continue sharing great, no cost and cost saving ideas for your space. Click the "Donate" button below to make a contribution. Thank you!





Live well,
Yvonne

Friday, March 20, 2020

1st Day of Spring!

Courtesy of Allison Norton

Hi Friends,

Spring is the most hopeful season of the year. Along with the warmer days and budding blooms that symbolize spring also come the hopes of dining outdoors, and the exciting feeling of trying new activities. Be an advocate of making seasonal to-do lists in order to keep life interesting. Here are a few ideas that will have you ready to embrace any adventure that comes your way before Labor Day. Without further ado, here are 10 Spring adventures that should go on your Spring bucket list…

10 Things to Try This Spring

1. Go to an outdoor music festival.
In the past few years, I have come to associate the month of April with Coachella. If you have never been, there is no better time to go than now (the lineup this year is amazing!). And if you've been before…do I even have to convince you? For those of you who don't live in Southern California, be sure to look into Mile High Music Festival, Outside Lands, Lollapalooza, and Bonnaroo, which are all in the summer.

2. Go on an impulsive weekend road trip.
The best kinds of road trips are the ones that happen in a spur of the moment decision. Pick a place you have always wanted to visit (I'm dying to go to Big Sur), grab your best friend or boyfriend, and just make it happen. Be sure to bring a cool camera to take snapshots along the way.

3. Create a cozy patio set up for springtime entertaining.
My apartment has a darling little back patio that is just begging to be used for an al fresco dinner party. This spring, I vow to add outdoor furniture, twinkle lights, and potted succulents to make the space inviting and useful. If you have a patio, I encourage you to do the same!

4. Springify your closet.
There's nothing like a bit of spring-cleaning to help get you excited for new warm-weather wardrobe staples. Donate items you haven't worn in a while, and reorganize the clothing and accessories you plan to keep for a fresh perspective. It will give you a good idea of what to add to add to your spring shopping list.

5. Hike to the highest spot in town.
Los Angeles has some pretty amazing hiking spots that are especially enjoyable on a gorgeous spring day. This season, take advantage of getting a good workout and enjoying the view by hiking to the highest spot in your town. You might even see your city in a whole new light.

6. Volunteer once a week.
Volunteering once a week this spring (and beyond!) is so rewarding, and it will enrich your life. I highly recommend researching a food bank, soup kitchen, or inner city school closest to you and lending a hand. It doesn't even need to be once a week-even going once a month will make a difference, and it will make you feel good in return.

7. Learn how to nurture.
Practice cultivating something this spring… Whether that means planting an herb garden, bringing home your first goldfish, or buying a puppy, learning to take care of something else will give you a broadened outlook on life.

8. Learn how to bake a pie.
I've always wanted to learn how to bake a pie from scratch, and this season I've decided to make it happen. Bake a pie with seasonal spring fruits like rhubarb, strawberries, or cherries.

9. Add a flea market addition to your home.
While you may be quite familiar with the flea markets in your area, a vintage splurge might not happen every time you make the trip. Promise yourself one special purchase at your local flea market that you will love in your home. It will refresh your décor for the changing seasons and get you excited about adding more new pieces in the future.

10. Add a few sun kissed strands to your hair.
In my opinion, one of the best parts about spring is that it leads into summer! Get your tresses beach-ready by adding in a few highlights. If your hair is chestnut brown, throw some golden strands into the mix. If you're a redhead, try a bit of strawberry blonde. And if you have golden locks, bright blonde is the way to go.

These are just a few ideas to get your started, compliments of Allison Norton but if you might also be inspired by Malavika Suresh with Spring Inspiration.

Spring Inspiration: Things to do this spring...

1. Go on a detox/cleanse.

2. Spring clean your home.

3. Have a yard sale (or an e-bay sale) to get rid of what you don't need anymore.

4. Rearrange the furniture in your home. Feng Shui up your life and bring in a newer and fresher energy.

5. Have fresh flowers in your home.

6. Take care of your legs (it's time to get those bad boys out!) and toes. Get pedicures and manicures often.

7. Update your Spring/Summer wardrobe.

8. Learn some new hairstyles.

9. Detail your car.

10. Start a brand new project.

11. Plan a summer trip.

12. Start a reading list.

13. Get a new hair style.

14. Take more walks in beautiful places.

15. Ride your bicycle.

16. Have a picnic.

17. Start running again.

18. Drink more water.

19. Wear lighter colours.

20. Start an outdoor hobby.

Both lists are great, but whatever you decide to do this Spring have fun with family and friends...

Check back for more great ideas and enjoy this Spring from your friends at Interior Design!

Your kind contribution will allow us to continue sharing great, no cost and cost saving ideas for your space. Click the "Donate" button below to make a contribution. Thank you!





Live well,
Yvonne

Tuesday, March 17, 2020

10 Spring Doormats to Welcome the New Season


Courtesy of Deanne Revel
Photo By: Anthropologie

Hi Friends,

Celebrate warmer temps and blooming flowers with these adorable outdoor mats.

Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and they may make money from these links.

Our featured Floral Mat is the perfect welcome to our post. Spring is the season for florals, and this front doormat from Anthropologie is the perfect way to greet guests.

Buy It: Anthropologie, $48.00

Bright Butterfly Mat

Photo By: Pier1

This abstract butterfly mat from Pier 1 is gorgeous. The light pink, tangerine and sage green colors are spot on for Spring.

Buy It: Pier 1, $14.88 (Originally $19.95)

Retro Tulip Mat

Photo By: Target

It wouldn’t be spring without a vase of freshly cut tulips on the table. This retro-inspired motif would be the perfect front doormat for a mid-mod rancher or anyone who loves 60s style.

Buy It: Target, $31.99

Bee Happy Mat

Photo By: Amazon

We love a good pun at HGTV and this "Bee Happy" mat definitely makes us smile. Even better? The price is right at just $12.99.

Buy It: Amazon, $12.99

Strawberry Mat

Photo By: Anthropologie

One of the best things about spring is strawberry season. We love the hand-painted, watercolor look of the strawberries on this doormat.

Buy It: Anthropologie, $42.00

Folk Art Mat

Photo By: Pier1

If you love boho embroidery, you need this mat. We love the bright, florals and the folk art-inspired design.

Buy It: Pier 1, $19.95

Carrot Mat

Photo By: West Elm

Add some Easter fun to your front door with this carrot doormat. We love the hand-painted geometric design.

Buy It: West Elm, $46.00

Oh Happy Day Mat

Photo By: Target

We love that the 60s daisy motif is coming back. And how fun is this mat? It’s such a cheery way to greet your guests.

Buy It: Target, $31.99

Bunny Mat

Photo By: Etsy

How stinking cute is this bunny mat? We love the hand-painted silhouettes and the bright Peeps-inspired colors. If you’re hosting Easter this year, you need this adorable doormat.

Buy It: Etsy, $39.99

Lavender Mat

Photo By: Amazon

If you’re looking for a front doormat that will transition from spring to summer, this English lavender mat is perfect as the flower itself blooms from late spring to July. We love the minimal, dainty design of the lavender stems.

Buy It: Amazon, $27.15

Monogram doormats look elegant and personalize your welcome to guest...

Check back for more great ideas from your friends at Interior Design.

Your kind contribution will allow us to continue sharing great, no cost and cost saving ideas for your space. Click the "Donate" button below to make a contribution. Thank you!





Live well,
Yvonne

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Courtesy of The Holiday Spot

Hi Friends,

Found some history on St. Patrick from The Holiday Spot and thought we would share this information about the patron saint of Ireland with all of you.

Enjoy!

History of St Patrick
St Patrick is known as the patron saint of Ireland. True, he was not a born Irish. But he has become an integral part of the Irish heritage, mostly through his service across Ireland of the 5th century.

Patrick was born in the later half of the 4th century AD. There are differing views about the exact year and place of his birth. According to one school of opinion, he was born about 390 A.D., while the other school says it is about 373 AD. Again, his birth place is said to be in either Scotland or Roman England. His real name was probably Maewyn Succat. Though Patricius was his Romanicized name, he was later came to be familiar as Patrick.

Patrick was the son of Calpurnius, a Roman-British army officer. He was growing up as naturally as other kids in Britain. However, one day a band of pirates landed in south Wales and kidnapped this boy along with many others. Then they sold him into slavery in Ireland. He was there for 6 years, mostly imprisoned. This was when changes came to him. He dreamed of having seen God. Legend says, he was then dictated by God to escape with a getaway ship.

Finally, he did escape and went to Britain. And then to France. There he joined a monastery and studied under St. Germain, the bishop of Auxerre. He spent around 12 years in training. And when he became a bishop he dreamed that the Irish were calling him back to Ireland to tell them about God. The Confessio, Patrick's spiritual autobiography, is the most important document regarding this. It tells of a dream after his return to Britain, in which one Victoricus delivered him a letter headed "The Voice of the Irish."

So he set out for Ireland with the Pope's blessings. There he converted the Gaelic Irish, who were then mostly Pagans, to Christianity. He was confident in the Lord, he journeyed far and wide, baptizing and confirming with untiring zeal. And, in a diplomatic fashion he brought gifts to a kinglet here and a lawgiver there,but accepted none from any.

Indeed, Patrick was quite successful at winning converts. Through active preaching, he made important converts even among the royal families. And this fact upset the Celtic Druids. Patrick was arrested several times,but escaped each time. For 20 years he had traveled throughout Ireland, establishing monasteries across the country. He also set up schools and churches which would aid him in his conversion. He developed a native clergy, fostered the growth of monasticism, established dioceses, and held church councils.

Patrick's doctrine is considered orthodox and has been interpreted as anti-Pelagian. Although he is not particularly noted as a man of learning, a few of his writings remain extant: his Confession, a reply to his detractors, and several letters. The Lorica ("Breastplate"), a famous hymn attributed to Patrick, may date to a later period. By the end of the 7th century Patrick had become a legendary figure, and the legends have continued to grow since then. There are many legends associated with St Patrick. It is said that he used the three-leafed shamrock to explain the concept of the Trinity; which refers to the combination of Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. Hence its strong association with his day and name Legend also has that, Saint Patrick had put the curse of God on venomous snakes in Ireland. And he drove all the snakes into the sea where they drowned.

True, these are mostly legends. But, after some 1500 years, these legends have been inseparably combined with the facts. And together they have helped us know much about the Saint and the spirit behind celebration of the day. Patrick's mission in Ireland lasted for over 20 years. He died on March 17, AD 461. That day has been commemorated as St. Patrick's Day ever since. The day's spirit is to celebrate the universal baptization of Ireland. Though originally a Catholic holy day, St. Patrick's Day has evolved into more of a secular holiday. Or, rather, 'be an Irish Day '. And the Irish has borne it as part of their national tradition in everywhere they populated and prospered. The Catholic feast day for this most loved of Irish saints has become a holiday in celebration of the Irish and Irish culture. The leprechaun, a Celtic fairy, has become entrenched as a chief symbol for this holiday, as is the shamrock, an ancient symbol for the triple goddess Brigit. It is fitting that this holiday should fall at the time of the year when the return of spring begins to seem at hand.

Happy St. Patrick's Day from your friends at Interior Design!

Your kind contribution will allow us to continue sharing great, no cost and cost saving ideas for your space. Click the "Donate" button below to make a contribution. Thank you!





Live well,
Yvonne

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

10 Ways To Refresh Your House For Spring


Courtesy of Megan Sadler

Hi Friends,

Add these tasks to your spring cleaning list to make sure the exterior of your home is in full bloom for warmer weather.

Clean Out The Clogs

Photo By: iStock/Jillian Cain

As the rainy season rolls in, it’s time to make sure your gutters are free of debris. Ignoring this notoriously painstaking task could lead to major problems down the road like foundation damage from all the water that can’t properly drain, basement flooding, or rotting wood just to name a few. It’s best to plan ahead and solve these problems before they start so roll up your sleeves and grab a ladder. If you’re not up to the task, consider hiring a professional.

Get Into the Weeds

Photo By: iStock/egumeny

April showers bring May flowers, but they also bring weeds. Make sure your garden is ready for prime time by clearing out overgrowth so that your blossoms can stand out. This can be a tough task but don't worry, there are plenty of tips out there to help make the job easier.

Freshen Up The Front Door

Photo By: iStock/hayenbird

An easy way to freshen up the appearance of your house is with a coat of paint. If you're having trouble picking a color that suits your home's style, bring home a lot of paint chips and be sure to test them out in the light at different times of the day.

Plant Summer Blooming Bulbs

Photo By: Jurgute

If you forgot to plant bulbs last fall, or if you just want to get a head start on summer gardening, spring is the perfect time to plant your favorite flowers. Asiatic and Oriental lilies, as well as corms, like gladiolus and crocosmia, are great choices. Be sure to wait to plant until the final frost has passed and the ground is warm so roots can take hold.

Revive Potted Plants

Photo By: iStock/Peera Sathawirawong

It's important to check potted plants for cracks or damage. If the plant's roots are starting to seep out of the pot through the drainage hole, or it seems too cramped to grow, it may be time to repot. A thorough washing or a new coat of paint to old pots can give new life to your exterior as well.

Roof Repairs

Photo By: Lex20

Once the final snow of winter melts, make sure the harsh cold weather didn't cause any roof damage. The weight of snow accumulation can lead to sagging or leaks. Be sure to check for leaks from inside the attic or highest floor of the home, as well as checking the outside for signs of sagging or missing tiles. Although repairs can be costly, spending now can help prevent major issues down the road and it could raise the value of your home.

Prep The Pool

Photo By: iStock/scOrpiOnce

After spending the cold months in hibernation, you're probably ready to go for a dip in your pool as soon as the weather warms up. There's a long list of maintenance items to consider, like balancing Ph levels and preventing algae growth. If you're drowning in pool chores, use this guide to help you prepare for sun fun in the sun.

Check Pavement for Cracks

Photo By: iStock/Artazum, LLC

If Old Man Winter did a number on your concrete drive, there are several options for repairing it. If the cracks are small, consider grabbing some concrete filler for a quick do-it-yourself fix before things get out of hand. However, if you have large cracks and major damage, it's best to contact a professional. If your concrete drive or walkway is riddled with stains, one fun option could be recoloring it with a stain. A fresh color that compliments your home could be a great way to add some extra curb appeal.

Feed The Lawn

Photo By: iStock/phive2015

Even though it may be too soon to pull out the mower, your lawn could use a spring power-up in preparation for warmer days. Sprinkle the yard with a nitrogen-heavy fertilizer as soon as the snow melts to get the grass ready to look its best.

Trim the Trees

Photo By: milicad

In early spring, before the trees start to bloom, is the best time to prune plants that are dormant during winter. Evergreens with needles, like pine, juniper or yew, are a great place to start.

Spring is only 10 days away so use this time to refresh your home, its right around the corner...

Check back for more great ideas from your friends at Interior Design.

Your kind contribution will allow us to continue sharing great, no cost and cost saving ideas for your space. Click the "Donate" button below to make a contribution. Thank you!





Live well,
Yvonne

Sunday, March 8, 2020

Daylight Savings Time Begins!



Hi Friends,

Just a friendly reminder to set your clocks ahead...

Check back for great decorating ideas from your friends at Interior Design!

Your kind contribution will allow us to continue sharing great, no cost and cost saving ideas for your space. Click the "Donate" button below to make a contribution. Thank you!





Live well,
Yvonne

Tuesday, March 3, 2020

A Spring Cleaning Guide for Lazy People


Courtesy of Erica Reitman

Hi Friends,

We've put together the ultimate spring cleaning guide for lazy people. Minimal effort and big results? Yes, please!

Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and they may make money from these links.

Stomp Out Rug Stains

Photo By: alvarez

Now's a great time to make your way around your home and see how dirty or stained each of your area rugs are. For inexpensive rugs that have seen better days, it might make more sense to donate them. For pricier area rugs that you want to give a bit of extra love, try removing any pet stains with these easy Stomp 'N Go Pet Stain Lifting Pads. There's no scrubbing required; simply stomp the pads down on your rug and watch as your stains magically disappear.

Buy It: Amazon, $24.99 (20 Pack)

Easy Microwave Cleaning

Photo By: Andrey Popov

Much like your oven, cleaning out your microwave may not exactly top your "fun" list, but the results are worth it. Fill up a microwave-safe bowl with water, lemon slices and a few tablespoons of cleaning vinegar. Set your microwave for approximately two minutes or until the water boils and the door looks steamy. Open the door, then simply wipe everything down. The dirt and grime will easily come off the microwave walls.

Buy It: Amazon, $11.39 (64 oz)

This Fridge Find Has No Expiration Date

Photo By: asbe

If you haven't cleaned out your fridge in a while, now's the time. Throw out any food or produce past its expiration date, and ditch all the crusty leftovers. Empty your fridge and clean it up shelf by shelf. After it's clean, grab a few shelf liners. The next time you tackle a fridge clean-up, you can take out all the liners and throw them in the dishwasher. You're practically done before you start.

Buy It: The Container Store, $4.99 (Set of 3)

Goodbye, Dirty Dishwasher

Photo By: Andrey Popov

We often forget that the appliances that help us keep our home clean every day also need to be cleaned themselves. While you've got the cleaning bug, it's time to tackle cleaning your dishwasher. Simply toss in a dishwasher cleaner pod. Much like the detergent pods you might already be using, this one is specially formulated to deep clean your dishwasher. Create a recurring appointment on your calendar, so you get a reminder each month to keep it up.

Buy It: Amazon, $7.45 (4 Pack)

So Long, Pet Hair

Photo By: Denis Zbukarev

There are lots of tricks for cleaning up pet hair around your home. One of our favorite (and easiest!) hacks is to put on a pair of rubber kitchen gloves and wipe off upholstered furniture. After you clean up your sofas and chairs, you can keep the momentum going and do a sink full of dishes. Our favorite rubber gloves are a heavy-duty pair in a bright color.

Buy It: Grove Collaborative, $6.95

Give Stuffed Animals a Bath

Photo By: Avosb

Allergens and germs love plush animals, so it's important to keep them clean. Get a large mesh laundry bag, and fill it with small stuffed animals and toys. Throw the mesh bag into your washing machine on the delicate cycle and either air dry or put them in the dryer on low heat. Try to wash toys at least once a month or immediately after any kids are sick.

Buy It: Walmart, $3.97 (3 Pack)

Quick Oven Cleaning

Photo By: filadendron

First, give your oven a deep scrub. After you get all the gunk out, use oven liners to ensure that any debris stays away for good. This reusable nonstick liner can be placed on the lower rack of your oven to catch all the spills and splatters before they hit. Simply wipe off the liner after you're finished cooking, and use it again and again.

Buy It: Amazon, $9.99

Stop the Smudges

Photo By: People Images

As beautiful as stainless steel appliances might look in your kitchen, they get dirty quick. Our favorite way to keep stainless steel clean is with designated stainless steel wipes. You can use them on your fridge, oven, dishwasher or any other smaller appliances you might have. Keep them handy in your kitchen, so you can always grab them whenever you see a new collection of tiny fingerprints.

Buy It: Walmart, $3.62

Erase It Away

Photo By Erstudiostok

Cleaning your walls is probably not something you think about, but they can get pretty beat up with an active family running around. This handy sponge can take care of scuffs, marks and dirt and make it all disappear in a flash. Walk around your house with one of these amazing, little sponges and make your walls look new and bright again.

Buy It: Walmart, $2.67 (2 Pack)

Let a Robot Handle It

Photo By: Onfokus

For all the lazy cleaners out there, the only kind of vacuum you need is a robot vacuum. The Shark Ion Robot vacuum can be controlled with an app on your phone or through voice commands. Send it out in your home and let it go to work on autopilot, keeping your floors and rugs clean. Smart sensor navigation means it does a great job of avoiding obstacles around your house, so you can basically sit down and relax while your whole house gets cleaned.

Buy It: Walmart, $247

Great tips to get a jump on that ever dreaded Spring cleaning...

Check back for more great ideas from your friends at Interior Design.

Your kind contribution will allow us to continue sharing great, no cost and cost saving ideas for your space. Click the "Donate" button below to make a contribution. Thank you!





Live well,
Yvonne