A spic-and-span washroom is a sign of a clean and hygienic home. Maintaining a clean toilet is all about using the right products and following certain cleaning practices systematically. Today, the market is loaded with multipurpose cleaners and disinfectant products that are highly effective, facilitating a clean washroom. However, it is also essential to avoid certain cleaning mistakes, which can lead to hygiene problems. Some such common toilet-cleaning mistakes are as follows: Treating all bathroom surfaces similarly Each surface in a bathroom typically has different textures, requiring different cleaning products to be used for each. For example, a mildly abrasive cleaner should be used to remove scum, whereas non-abrasives are ideal for tiles, and bathtubs. Not cleaning the toilet brush The toilet brush can be a petri dish for bacteria and germs if left uncleaned and can lead to major hygiene issues eventually. It is advisable to clean the toilet brush thoroughly after every use, preferably by filling a bucket with warm water, adding some bleach to it, and leaving the brush in this solution for an hour. The brush should then be rinsed with fresh warm water before use. Not cleaning the exhaust fan An exhaust fan is essential in the bathroom to get rid of odor, moisture, humidity, etc.

Window blinds are an essential part of home decor, providing privacy, light control, and aesthetic appeal. However, they can quickly become a breeding ground for dust, grime, and allergens, making it essential to keep them clean. So, regardless of the kind of blinds you have—wooden, vinyl, or fabric—here is a comprehensive guide with all the necessary steps to clean your window blinds and keep them dust-free for a long time. Key cleaning supplies Before you start cleaning the blinds, you must have the following: microfiber cloth or duster, a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment, mild detergent, warm water, a bucket, a spray bottle, and clean water for rinsing. Cleanup process The first step for cleaning your window blinds is to close the blinds entirely and dust them with a microfiber cloth or duster. If your blinds are particularly dirty, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to get rid of any debris or dust. Here is all you need to know about working with different types of blinds: Horizontal blinds: If you are working with horizontal blinds, tilt the slats in one direction, and clean each slat with a microfiber cloth or duster. Once done, tilt the blinds in the opposite direction and repeat the process.

Clutter can be stressful for many people. A cluttered home can make it difficult to find things, create unnecessary distractions, and contribute to a general feeling of disorganization. If you are overwhelmed by the mess, one of the best things you can do is start decluttering. There are some effective strategies to eliminate unnecessary items and create a more organized, stress-free home. In addition, one must avoid certain decluttering mistakes like the ones mentioned below. Common decluttering mistakes to avoid Not having a plan One of the biggest mistakes people make when decluttering is they start without a proper plan. It is important to take a step back and consider what you want to achieve and how you will do it. Create a plan that includes what you want to keep, what you want to donate, and things you want to throw away. It will assist you in remaining focused and motivated during the procedure. Being too sentimental Sentimental items can be difficult to let go of, but it’s important to be realistic about what you can keep. Retain only the things you truly cherish, and consider taking photos of items that you can’t keep. Holding onto things Another common mistake is holding onto items thinking you might need them someday.

Gardening as a hobby can help one remain fit; however, that’s not its only advantage. Gardening has proved to possess both physical and mental health benefits, and it can provide a much-needed break from the sedentary lifestyle most people lead. Nevertheless, in the process of trial and error, many people make common mistakes at the beginning of their gardening journey. Keep reading further to learn about these gardening mistakes and tips on avoiding them. 5 common gardening mistakes to avoid Planting too much Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned gardener, one of the common gardening mistakes made by people is to go overboard while planting vegetables or fruits in the garden. While the idea of a bountiful harvest is quite tempting, it often comes with its share of problems, including decreased weeding and watering. Furthermore, maintaining a big garden full of plants can take up a lot of time and energy. Hence, experts suggest having short-term goals and planting veggies or fruits that can be used regularly, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and lettuce. Forgetting to interplant Sometimes, in order to have a uniform-looking garden, many people opt for a single type of plant. However, intercropping or interplanting has a wide range of benefits.

Removing laundry odor at home is essential to keep the clothes smelling fresh and clean. Unpleasant odors can arise from various sources, such as sweat, mildew, or lingering cooking smells. Effectively removing laundry odor at home involves a combination of proper sorting, washing, and maintenance practices. Following these steps and incorporating preventative measures ensures the clothes always smell fresh and clean. Check out some easy to follow expert suggestions. Sorting and Pre-Treatment Separate laundry into whites, colors, and delicate. Next pre-treat stains with stain removers before washing. Also, choose a high-quality laundry detergent that suits the washing machine and water hardness. Avoid using excess detergent, as it can leave a soapy residue that traps odors. Use the hottest water temperature recommended for all clothes. Hot water helps to dissolve oils and dirt, which can cause odor buildup. Establish a regular laundry routine to prevent odors from accumulating. Avoid letting wet laundry sit in the machine for an extended period, as this can promote mold and mildew growth. Proper Washing Machine Maintenance Regularly clean the washing machine, including the detergent drawer and drum. Use a washing machine cleaner or a vinegar and baking soda mixture to remove mold and mildew buildup.

The use of power tools is indispensable when one is involved in DIY projects and construction work. However, they also pose inherent risks if not handled properly. Accidents with power tools can lead to serious injuries and damage. To ensure safety in the workshop or on the job site, individuals must be aware of potential hazards and take preventive measures. Here are a few crucial tips on how to avoid common power tool accidents: 1. Read and understand the manual Before operating any power tool, it’s imperative to read and understand the manufacturer’s manual thoroughly. This document provides crucial information about the tool’s proper usage, safety precautions, and maintenance requirements. Neglecting this step can lead to misunderstandings or oversight of vital safety features. 2. Wear appropriate safety gear Personal protective equipment (PPE) is non-negotiable when working with power tools. This includes safety goggles, ear protection, gloves, and, in some cases, respiratory masks. Each piece of PPE serves a specific purpose in safeguarding against potential hazards, such as flying debris or loud noises. 3. Maintain a clean and organized workspace Clutter and disorganization can lead to accidents. Keep the work area tidy by promptly clearing away debris, storing tools properly, and ensuring adequate lighting.

For the sake of convenience, many people turn to paper towels as a quick and disposable solution for various cleaning tasks, from wiping hands to tackling common household messes. While paper towels are undoubtedly versatile and convenient for spills and drying, there are specific surfaces and items that they may not be well-suited for. Here are some common areas that are best cleaned with other alternatives to ensure the best outcome of one’s cleaning efforts. Delicate glassware Paper towels may seem like a logical choice for cleaning glass surfaces due to their absorbency and lint-free nature. But they can leave behind tiny paper fibers and streaks when used on delicate glassware. These imperfections can affect their appearance and require additional cleaning to correct. Instead, one can opt to use microfiber or lint-free cloth specifically designed for streak-free glass cleaning. Windows and mirrors Like glassware, cleaning windows and mirrors with paper towels can result in lint residue. One can instead reach for eco-friendly alternatives like an old cotton t-shirt or a piece of microfiber cloth for a more effective cleaning solution. Electronic screens Modern homes are filled with electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computer monitors, all of which have sensitive screens.

Jewelry is among the most prized possessions for several households owing to its sheer elegance and value. Unfortunately, FBI estimates suggest that approximately $100 million worth of jewelry gets stolen each year nationwide. Although security systems can help detect and prevent such crimes, one should still exercise caution while leaving jewelry at home, as failure of such systems can increase the risk of jewelry theft. Here are some places to avoid hiding jewelry at home: In the freezer It is estimated that over one in four people hide their jewelry in the freezer. Therefore, burglars are typically well-versed with this tactic and may remember to check the freezer while trying to steal jewelry. Under the mattress The mattress is a seemingly safe place to hide precious items, as it can easily conceal the belongings kept underneath it. Unfortunately, since most individuals have discovered the effectiveness of this hiding place, hiding jewelry underneath the mattress has become common in households, and one of the spots burglars would be sure to check. The toilet water tank The toilet tank is a risky place to hide jewelry as it may be easily discovered. Also, there is a high chance of the jewelry to get tarnished due to moisture.

Bedbugs are among the peskiest pests and quite hard to get rid of. If they hang on to a person’s clothing or personal belongings, they can easily infest their homes, cars, etc. So, steering clear of bed bugs is crucial to avoid their bites and prevent one’s personal space from getting infested. One way to avoid catching bed bugs is to stay careful at a few hotspots where these insects usually lurk. These include the following: 1. Public transport Public transport seats, such as subway cars, cabs, and buses, are among the most common lurking places for bed bugs. They can easily hop on one’s clothing or personal items, like bags. One can avoid this by keeping their belongings carefully, not on the cushions, and checking their belongings properly upon reaching home. 2. Hotels Even though hotel beds are cleaned and disinfected before every check-in, the seats in a hotel’s waiting areas and lounge areas are usually not; chances are, these seats might be concealing bed bugs. So, it is best to avoid using these seats and keep luggage away from them when visiting hotels. 3. Office break rooms Bed bugs can thrive in office environments, especially in areas like break rooms where many people gather at once.

Moving into a new home can be exciting. It provides individuals with an opportunity to explore a new neighborhood and meet new people. However, the entire process of moving out and moving in can be pretty complex and chaotic. As a result, many people make mistakes that cost them more money and lead to hassle. Here are five such mistakes one must try to avoid when moving into a new home. Packing at the last minute One of the most common mistakes individuals make when moving is procrastinating packing. Packing at the last moment can lead to chaos and disorganization. For convenience, individuals should pack early, starting with the rarely used items and gradually moving to the essentials. Beginning early gives one enough time to label the boxes and organize their belongings well. Not hiring professional movers Seeking help from friends and family for moving may seem cost-effective, but it can be more stressful and chaotic. Professional movers can perform this task more efficiently. They transport delicate items using the appropriate equipment and expertise, providing peace of mind. Not keeping a checklist It is easy to misplace or lose items amid the hustle and bustle of moving. Hence, when packing, individuals must keep a checklist.

Moving to a new home is an exciting, albeit challenging, process. While many people are attracted to the idea of starting anew in a different place, the actual move requires a fair amount of planning and organizing. To get a head start on one’s move, packing well is crucial. However, many people continue to make packing mistakes during this process. This article sheds light on four common packing mistakes one can avoid while moving. Waiting until the last minute to pack Packing is an art and a science. Beginning this process too late can lead to unnecessary rushing on moving day. It is also likely to be more disorganized, making setting up one’s new home difficult. Ideally, one must start two weeks to a month before the moving day. Begin packing less-used items and wrapping them up properly. Recognize items that are no longer needed and donate them to charity, give them to friends and family, or set up a yard sale for them. This process will help declutter and make space for new things in the house. Mislabeling or not labeling the boxes Labeling the boxes correctly is an essential part of the packing process. Skipping this step or doing a shoddy job can create a lot of confusion and lengthen the unpacking process.