Before cleaning off the stains, find the cause and eliminate it. Otherwise, the brown stains will likely return.

Water Stains

A leak in the exterior wall or roof can make the wood behind the wallpaper wet. The tannins in the wood soak through the wallpaper and stain it brown. The wallpaper may also bubble, peel, or smell musty. If the brown stain has black spots mixed in it, you may have a mold infestation along with the staining.

Find the leak and stop it before trying to clean the wallpaper. If you suspect mold, or if the leak has soaked the wall insulation, be prepared for a more extensive renovation.

Improper Installation

Brown stains can appear on recently installed wallpaper. Too much paste or the wrong type of paste can soak through the wallpaper before it dries. If the stains are the result of poor installation, the wallpaper will likely start peeling off soon. Be prepared to remove the wallpaper and do it again.

High-Traffic Areas

Brown stains appear on wallpaper in high-traffic areas. They are usually a buildup of dirt, dust, and grime–especially if kids run their wet greasy hands along the walls. Wallpaper requires regular cleaning in high-traffic areas to remain stain-free.

Smoke Stains

The visible part of smoke consists of unburned fuel, oils, tar, and chemicals. They adhere to anything they contact–including wallpaper. All combustion produces smoke–cigarettes, cooking, fireplaces, wood stoves, candles, etc. If you have smoke in your house, you have brown stains on your wallpaper. The worst staining occurs near the ceiling. Regular cleaning is the only solution.

Bug Stains

Some insect pests leave brown stains on wallpaper. These include:

• Stink Bugs. Leave a trail of brownish-orange fluid behind when disturbed.
• Cockroaches. Leave dark brown or reddish smears where they crawl.
• Boxelder Bugs. (Also called Maple Bugs) Have orange-tinted feces.
• Silverfish. Feed on wallpaper and leave yellowish stains.
• Bed Bugs. Feces are brown and they leave reddish-brown stains when crushed.

It is best to eliminate the pest infestation before cleaning the wallpaper or the stains will continue to reappear.

The post Brown Stains on Wallpaper: A Sign of Trouble? appeared first on Homedit.

Unpleasant-smelling homes do not necessarily indicate that your home is not clean; it could simply be that you overlooked or left something unattended that caused the bad odor. Here are some of the most common causes of unpleasant odors in homes.

Not Addressing Pet Odors

Pets are one of the biggest challenges in maintaining a fresh-smelling home. Pet hair, litter boxes, accidents, and bedding are the most common causes of bad odors, and the more pets you have, the more difficult the challenge becomes.

To eliminate or at least mitigate the odors associated with pets, practice frequent grooming, such as washing and trimming or brushing, to reduce hair shedding. Clean and wash their bedding frequently, vacuum carpets, and mop hard floors to keep the odors from settling. Use specialty enzymatic cleaners for accidents to break down the compounds that cause bad smells. Use an air purifier, HEPA air filters, and ensure good ventilation to ensure air circulation.

Letting Cooking Odors Linger

Your cooking may smell delicious in the moment, but many cooking odors that linger become unpleasant. The biggest food offenders include garlic, onions, fish, and oils.

To minimize these smells, it is vital that you use a range hood or open a window while you are cooking to allow these smells to escape rather than become embedded in the walls and fabric of your home. Clean up right after cooking so these elements do not sit around. Take the garbage out immediately after you put in food waste from meal prep. For stubborn cooking smells, consider investing in an air purifier to freshen the smell of the kitchen.

Using Overpowering Scents

It can be tempting to fill your home with pleasant scents to ensure that it smells good, but this is actually counterproductive. Strong fragrances from candles, diffusers, and sprays can cause headaches, trigger allergies, and overwhelm those in the room. Overpowering scents can also mask unpleasant odors and make you neglect the root cause of bad smells in your home.

A better strategy is to use lighter-smelling fragrances and have adequate ventilation so that your home feels fresh and welcoming rather than stuffy and overwhelming.

Neglecting Ventilation

Poor airflow is one of the most likely causes of unpleasant odors in your home. Inadequate ventilation allows odors from pets, cooking, mold, and damp areas to accumulate without a way out. Even pleasant smells can become cloying when they are too confined.

To maintain a fresh home environment, you should have multiple sources of ventilation. These can include fresh air from open windows and doors, exhaust fans, an HVAC system, ceiling fans, floor fans, and air purifiers. It will be easier to get rid of unpleasant odors by using a variety of ventilation techniques at the same time.

Relying Too Heavily on Artificial Scents

Carefully chosen artificial scents can be a vital part of creating a fresh-smelling home, but a too heavy reliance on these scents can mask unpleasant odors and also make a home feel inauthentic.

Rather than relying on artificial smells to make your home smell good, address fundamental issues such as adequate ventilation to draw out bad odors. You can also think about using natural scents to create a pleasing scent in your house, like essential oil-infused air diffusers, simmering pots, and fresh flowers and plants.

Using Fragrances to Hide an Unclean Space

Fragrances are used by some people to make a room smell cleaner than it actually is (example: think college dorms). This is certainly a quicker option, but it is not a good long-term strategy. For one thing, it doesn’t work. The fragrance may mask the worst manifestations of the bad smell, but it will still be there, contributing to the overwhelming odor of the space.

A better goal than making your space smell good is to clean it and address the root causes that are creating the negative odor. Rid the space of anything causing the room to smell bad, such as spoiled or smelly food, old laundry, and garbage. Add ventilation, such as a fan, or open a window to remove smelly air. Use fresh and light fragrances, such as those from essential oils, to make the room smell better.

Neglecting Wet Laundry

When wet clothes are left piled up in a laundry basket or in the washer, they quickly develop a sour odor due to mold and mildew growth. Rather than allowing wet laundry to accumulate, wash and dry it as soon as possible, even if you can not fold and store it right away. If you leave wet laundry until it starts to mold, you will need to rewash it with a cup of vinegar or baking soda to get rid of the musty odor. Check that the clothes are dry before you leave them, as any dampness will make the laundry sour.

Mismatching Scents for the Room

When considering which scents to use in your home, one factor to consider is the purpose of the room. Using the wrong scent for the space can clash with the vibe you want to create. Sweet dessert-like scents are out of place in a bathroom, just like heavy floral smells clash with the earthy aromas of the kitchen. Instead, choose a smell that complements the function of the room, such as citrus in the kitchen or lavender for the bedroom.

Not Addressing Damp and Moldy Spaces

Moisture retention in areas like basements, bathrooms, and unventilated areas are ideal environments for mold and mildew growth. This causes an odor that can seep into furniture upholstery, carpets, and walls and hang heavily over your home. Prolonged exposure to mold spores and mildew can also cause respiratory problems and allergies.

It is vital to address any moisture problems you have in your home, such as those caused by leaking pipes, roof problems, and poor ventilation. Even if you don’t have an overt problem, you may need to use a dehumidifier to absorb moisture in areas prone to dampness, like basements.

Not Taking the Garbage Out Frequently

As food waste, old packaging, and other discarded items sit in the trash, they begin to decompose and release foul smells. Full trash cans not only smell bad, but they also attract pests like rodents and bugs.

It is recommended to empty your indoor garbage cans on a regular basis and transfer them to an outdoor bin. Even if you do not want to empty it every day, you should empty it within a few days to avoid unpleasant odors in your home. Make sure to empty it before hosting an event to ensure that your home smells its best. It is also helpful to periodically wash out your trash can to make sure the bottom is not harboring bad smells.

The post 10 Common Scent Mistakes to Avoid in Your Home appeared first on Homedit.

Get An Energy Audit

An energy audit tells you where the house is losing heat and which areas should be prioritized to save heat and add comfort. There is no sense in adding attic insulation when you should be insulating rim joists instead. The average cost of a home energy audit is about $425.00. (Government rebates may reduce the cost.) Audits only need to be done once.

Adjust Your Thermostat

Turning the thermostat down 7 – 10 degrees Fahrenheit when no one is home can save up to 10% on heating bills. Lower the temperature by the same amount when you are sleeping. Add another blanket to the beds. (Keep the temperature above 55 degrees F. to prevent frozen pipes and frost on the windows.)

Programmable Thermostat

Upgrading to a programmable thermostat saves energy. It also saves you from having to remember to adjust your old thermostat. Smart thermostats can be programmed to your lifestyle, sleeping patterns, work, and holiday schedule.

Seal Your Windows and Doors

Your walls should have an R-value of R-12 or R-20. Double-glazed windows are R-2. And they often leak. Fix drafty windows with weatherstrip, caulking, and foam insulation. Storm windows are worth installing to keep the heat in. Even inexpensive plastic film prevents heat loss.

A ⅛” gap below your exterior door loses as much heat as a 2” hole in the wall. Adjust or replace your door sweep. Place a rolled-up towel or door draft stopper against it to prevent heat loss. Adjust the door to seal properly against the weatherstrip. Replace damaged weatherstrip.

Space Heaters

Space heaters are an excellent way to have a warm cozy area in a room while keeping the whole house temperature lower. Trying to heat an entire room with a space heater is not cost-efficient. Use them under home office desks, to heat a small reading area, or to warm a bathroom before use. Follow all space heater safety tips this winter. They can be dangerous–especially older heaters that may lack safety features like timers and auto shut-off if they tip over.

Fireplaces

Electric and gas fireplaces are very efficient and add a significant amount of heat to the room. Wood fireplaces may actually cool the house by drawing warm interior air to fuel the flames and sending it up the chimney. Close any fireplace doors after the burn to prevent warm air from escaping up the chimney. Close the flue when the fireplace is not in use.

Use Fans

Reverse ceiling fans to mix the warm air that accumulates near the ceiling with cooler air to keep room temperatures constant. This is especially effective in homes with vaulted ceilings where warm air gathers. Small quiet fans located in rooms without ceiling fans achieve a similar effect.

Don’t Close Vents and Doors

Shutting off vents and closing doors to only heat parts of the house usually increases energy consumption. Furnace size is calculated to heat the entire house. Closing doors and vents alters the pressure balance and forces the furnace to work longer and harder.

More Easy Tips and Tricks

Include these easy inexpensive tips in your heat-saving arsenal.

• Curtains. Open curtains during the day so solar gain warms the house. Close them at night to preserve the heat.
• Furniture. Do not place furniture over or in front of vents, return air ducts, or any heat source. Keep rugs off floor vents.
• Bathroom and Kitchen Fans. Ventilation fans should run for 20 – 30 minutes to remove humidity. Installing a timer switch is an effective way to control run time.
• Furnace Filters. Dirty filters make the furnace work harder and run longer. Change them regularly.
• Attic Access. Ensure it has effective weatherstrip and remains tightly closed.
• Seal Cracks and Gaps. Seal all cracks, gaps, and wall penetrations to reduce heat loss.
• Insulate Heating Ducts. Ducting that passes through crawl spaces and attics should be insulated to prevent heat loss.
• Inspect Heating Systems. Have your furnace inspected yearly to maintain efficient operation.

The post Home Heating Tips and Tricks That Save You Money appeared first on Homedit.

Acetone is a naturally occurring clear liquid solvent. It has the ability to break down other substances, so it is a popular choice as a nail polish remover, paint thinner, and household cleaner. Look for 100% acetone or industrial-grade acetone to use for these projects found at both beauty supply and home improvement stores. Always test acetone on an inconspicuous area, especially on plastics, painted items, and fabrics, as it can damage certain delicate or highly porous materials.

Removing Adhesive Residue

Acetone is highly effective for removing the residue left behind when you peel off items like stickers, tape, and label glue. Acetone has strong dissolving properties that will remove any stickiness that remains. To use it, apply acetone to the area using a cotton ball or cloth and gently rub it until the surface is clean.

Cleaning Permanent Marker Stains and Crayon Marks

Inadvertently using a permanent marker instead of a dry eraser can ruin whiteboards. Revitalize a whiteboard or window, and even countertops with acetone. You can use acetone to remove permanent marker stains and crayon marks from non-porous materials like plastic, glass, and metal. Simply apply acetone to the effected area using a cloth or cotton ball and rub until the stain disappears.

Removing Scuff Marks

Stubborn scuff marks can appear on floors, walls, and furniture when a shoe sole, furniture leg, or other heavy object comes into contact with another hard surface. Scuffs do not usually penetrate a given surface, but they are unsightly. Acetone can be used to dissolve scuff marks on hard surfaces like tile and laminate floors, as well as the surface of shoes. Rub acetone gently on a surface to remove scuff marks, but test in an inconspicuous area first as acetone can damage delicate painted or varnished surfaces.

Degreasing Tools and Equipment

Acetone is a powerful solvent that dissolves residual grease, oil, and grime that makes tools and other equipment sticky. To restore your tools to their original state, use acetone and a rag to wipe your tools down. To prevent fume accumulation, make sure you are working in an area with adequate ventilation. Soak tools in an acetone solution to remove tougher grime. Make sure that tools with rubber or plastic components are not left in acetone for too long, as prolonged exposure can damage them.

Stripping Paint

Inadvertant drips or specks of paint are common after a painting project. Thankfully, acetone can be used to remove even dried paint stains. Apply acetone to a cotton ball or cloth and rub the affected area. For old, dried paint, place a cotton ball over it for a few minutes. This will loosen the dried paint, allowing you to remove it more easily. These steps may need to be repeated multiple times to completely remove certain paint stains.

Polishing Glass Surfaces

Glass surfaces quickly become occluded because of fingerprints, splashes, and dirt. Acetone is useful for polishing glass surfaces because it effectively removes streaks, grime, and smudges, leaving them spotless and shiny. Use acetone to polish windows, mirrors, glass tabletops, and microwave doors. Apply a small amount of acetone to a clean cloth and rub in a circular pattern. The acetone will quickly evaporate and leave a residue-free surface. Do not use acetone on coated glass without spot testing.

Cleaning Superglue Accidents

Accidents with superglue are common because of its super-sticking power. Acetone is extremely effective for dissolving the cyanoacrylate in superglue, which makes it break down more easily. To remove superglue, dab an acetone-soaked cottonball into the affected area. You may need to repeat this several times until the superglue begins to release. This method works especially well on hard surfaces such as glass, stone, metal, and plastic, but be cautious with delicate surfaces as it can cause damage.

Removing Stuck-On Gum

Whether gum is stuck on shoes, furniture, or carpet, acetone works well to remove it. Spray or soak the affected area with acetone and leave it to sit for several minutes. Pry off as much of the gum as you can. Apply more acetone to the area and work with a toothbrush or rag to clean the area. Test acetone in an inconspicuous area on delicate surfaces such as carpet before using to be sure it will not discolor.

Refreshing Porcelain Fixtures

Acetone can be used to clean porcelain bathroom fixtures like sinks and bathtubs that have been disfigured by stubborn stains, soap grime, and mineral deposits. Acetone’s solvent properties restore the surface without damage. To apply the acetone, use a cloth or sponge/scrubbing pad and gently work into the affected areas. For tougher stains, spray the acetone on and allow it to soak for several minutes before cleaning the surface.

Cleaning Tile Grout

Grout lines can quickly become discolored because of dirt, food stains, and mold. Acetone can break down these stains and restore the original color of the grout. Apply a small amount of acetone to an old toothbrush or cloth and rub onto the grout lines. For stubborn stains, allow the acetone to sit on the grout surface without working it. This method works best with white grout. When using acetone on colored grout, exercise caution to avoid discoloring the surface. Always test it before applying it to the entire area.

Preparing Surfaces for Painting

Grease and grime may need to be removed before paint can adhere to a given surface. Acetone cleans the surface of these contaminants. Simply rub the area you are going to paint with a cloth with acetone. This treatment works best on hard, unpainted surfaces such as metal, plastic, and glass. Use with caution on painted surfaces, as acetone may break down the old paint, causing it to flake into your new paint.

Cleaning Electronic Casings

Items like computer monitors, phone cases, and remote controls are magnets for fingerprints and other smudges. The solvent properties of acetone mean that it can break down these greasy smudges without leaving a trace. Use caution when applying acetone to anything with an electronic component. Carefully dab the item with a cloth with acetone, taking care not to saturate it. Apply this method to plastic or metal casings and refrain from using on sensitive components or coatings.

Removing Stubborn Coffee and Tea Stains

Acetone is effective for cleaning coffee and tea stains from non-porous items like mugs, countertops, and certain fabrics. Apply a small amount of acetone to a cloth or cottonball and rub into the surface until the stain is removed. Always test the acetone on the fabric in an unseen corner to be sure it does not discolor it.

Dissolving Ink Stains

You can use acetone to remove ink stains, especially on hard surfaces like countertops, glass, metal, and certain plastics. Wet a cloth or cottonball with acetone and rub into the ink stain. The ink will begin to dissolve and allow you to wipe it away. This may require more than one application of acetone.

Is Acetone Safe to Use in the House?

Acetone has been deemed generally safe for household use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but it is always wise to use common-sense precautions, as you would with any other chemical.

• Ventilation: Make sure there is always good airflow in the area where you are using acetone because it emits strong fumes that can be harmful if ingested in large amounts.
• Flammability: Acetone is highly flammable, so keep it away from open flames, sparks, and heat sources.
• Skin Contact: Acetone is safe, but prolonged exposure can make your skin dry and irritated. Use gloves if you are working with acetone for an extended period.
• Surface Testing: Always test delicate surfaces in an out-of-the-way location to ensure that acetone does not damage or discolor them.
• Children and Pets: Store acetone in a safe place, away from children and pets, as it can be harmful if ingested in large quantities.

The post Surprising Household Uses For Acetone Besides as a Nail Polish Remover appeared first on Homedit.

Renos That Should Wait Until Spring

Unless you have an emergency–things like leaking roofs, leaking basements, broken windows, etc.–leave these jobs for warmer weather. You get a better quality product in a shorter time frame.

New Roofing

Installing any type of roofing is dangerous in optimal weather conditions. Adding ice, snow, rain, and cold temperatures to steep roofs makes the work more dangerous. Asphalt and fiberglass shingles get brittle and break in the cold. They don’t seal properly and may require repairs in warmer weather. Many roofing contractors completely shut down every winter.

New Siding

Siding can be and is installed in freezing temperatures. It should be installed by someone with experience to avoid serious problems later. A 12’ sheet of vinyl siding expands and contracts approximately ⅝” between winter and summer. Improper installation can result in joints opening up, buckled siding, and excess waste. (Vinyl siding cracks and shatters in cold weather.)

Most siding is difficult to work with and more brittle in cold temperatures. Waste factors are higher. All siding installations require waterproofing and sealing. The caulking may not cure properly and sealing tape does not stick as well. The quality of installation may also suffer in cold weather.

New Windows and Doors

Regardless of how experienced and quick window installation crews are, every window and door replacement leaves a hole in your wall for at least 20 minutes–more if they run into problems like rot or sizing difficulties. Spray foam insulation and caulking freeze before curing and sealing gaps. You get a better job waiting for warm weather.

Exterior Painting

Painting in winter–even if it does not freeze–is problematic. Paint does not adhere to moist surfaces very well and it takes much longer to dry. Your paint job may start peeling and flaking. Exterior painting is more successful when the temperature remains consistently above 50 degrees F.

Anything Involving Concrete

Pouring concrete in the winter is expensive–especially if it does not cure properly. Poorly cured foundation walls are structurally weaker. Driveways, sidewalks, and patios poured in winter can spall, crack, and heave. For proper curing, concrete needs to be kept between 50 and 60 degrees F for 48 hours–adding to the cost of winter concrete pours.

Landscaping

Landscaping in winter is challenging and usually doomed to failure–even if you are not digging through snow cover. Tree, shrub, and plant roots do not grow in frozen or near-frozen earth. They remain dormant, freeze, and the plant usually dies. Late summer, spring, or fall planting is a better option. Some plants should never be planted in the fall in case of early freeze-up.

Large Exterior Renovations

Additions, extensions, and even adding a bay window are best left for warmer months. At some time during construction, the house is opened up so work can proceed. Adequate heating is difficult. Snow and rain can make the interior wet, muddy, and messy. Spend your winter planning, getting permits, getting quotes, and be ready for an early spring start.

The post Home Renos You Should Never Do In The Winter appeared first on Homedit.

You can still use these plants as decorations. Just ensure that you handle them safely and caution your guests about potential dangers.

Holly

Holly wreaths and table decorations are popular Christmas decorations. The entire plant–especially the bright red berries–is very toxic. Holly contains saponins and theobromine throughout the plant but they are especially concentrated in the attractive bright red berries. Theobromine poisoning can cause vomiting, diarrhea, high blood pressure, and possibly death.

Theobromine poisoning–also called chocolate or cocoa poisoning–is very toxic to dogs and cats. Make sure children and pets are kept away from holly decorations.

Poinsettia

Potted poinsettias are everywhere at Christmas time. Their display of beautiful leaves makes for festive decorations. They are on this list because of their mythical reputation. Repeated studies show that poinsettias are not toxic to children or pets. A child needs to eat about 500 poinsettia leaves to get sick. Contact with poinsettia sap may cause a rash and itching. Be cautious with poinsettias but decorating with them should not cause any problems for children or pets.

Mistletoe

Mistletoe symbolizes good luck, love, and invitations to kiss. It is also highly toxic to humans and pets. The leaves and berries contain the toxins viscotoxin and pharotoxin. Ingesting American mistletoe usually only causes gastrointestinal discomfort. Eating European mistletoe can cause death.

Symptoms of mistletoe poisoning include nausea, vomiting, confusion, slow heartbeat, and seizures–which could be fatal. Mistletoe is safe to touch but ingesting even a small bit can be dangerous.

Amaryllis

Amaryllis bulbs contain alkaloids such as lycorine. They are very toxic to cats and dogs and make children ill if chewed on. Even the flowers can be toxic if chewed on. Poisoning symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, abdominal pain, and possibly seizures. Make sure that children and pets can’t get to these beautiful flowers.

Yew

The dark green needles and bright red berries of the yew shrub make attractive holiday wreaths. A chemical called taxines is found in all parts of the plant and is extremely poisonous to humans and pets. Some of the many symptoms of yew poisoning include breathing problems, diarrhea, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, convulsions, and coma. Ingesting even small amounts causes toxic reactions. It may be best not to decorate with this dangerous plant for festive occasions.

Ivy

English ivy is designated a noxious weed and invasive plant in parts of the USA. This doesn’t stop people from using it as a holiday decoration. Ingesting any type of ivy can cause severe stomach pain and skin rashes, nausea, and vomiting. Ivy poisoning is not considered fatal and the seriousness of the poisoning depends on the amount eaten. Handling the plant can cause dermatitis. Ivy is toxic to both humans and pets.

Christmas Cactus

Christmas cactus plants are a staple in many homes. They produce beautiful pink, red, or white blossoms at Christmas and/or Easter. They are not as toxic as others on the list but they do cause gastrointestinal irritation in small children and pets if ingested.

Lilies

Lilies are popular holiday decorations because of their large flower displays. Make sure your cat can’t chew on lilies. Swallowing even a small bit causes kidney failure in cats. Ensure your cat can’t get to the lily plant or opt for a different decoration.

The post Festive Plants That Are Extremely Poisonous appeared first on Homedit.

I dug into the best expert tips and spoke to a master plumber to get to the bottom of this conundrum. Here’s what they advised.

Yes, You Should Heat Your Unfinished Basement in the Winter

Rather than waiting to turn the heat on until temps drop to extreme levels, keep your unfinished basement heated to at least 55°F, says Nathan Hudelson, a Master Plumber at Schlueter Plumbing in Cincinnati, OH. “Yes, a minimal amount of heat in the basement is a very good idea to keep pipes from freezing. In my humble opinion, 55 degrees should be the minimum,” he advises.

If you live in a warmer climate where temperatures rarely fall below freezing, your basement may stay well above 55°F without using heat. Since basements are underground, the earth surrounding them offers some natural insulation, keeping temperatures better regulated than the rest of your house. 

Heat Tape is An Effective Way to Protect Those Basement Pipes from Bursting

Aside from advising clients to keep temperatures regulated, Hudelson also recommends heat tape as a way to protect exposed basement pipes from freezing. “We’ve had very good results with it if it is used correctly and the electricity doesn’t go off. Heat tape or heat trace is a wire that runs along a pipe and generates a very small amount of resistance heat to keep pipes warm,” he says.

After the heat tape is applied, insulate your pipes and plug the heat tape in to verify it works correctly.

Heating Your Basement to the Same Temps as the Rest of the House Isn’t Necessary

In most cases (unless there are air gaps and a lack of insulation), an unfinished basement won’t reach temperatures low enough to freeze the pipes. Still, it’s best to take a proactive approach and monitor heat levels, ensuring they don’t fall below the recommended 55°F.

The good news is that you don’t need to heat your basement to the same temperatures as the rest of the house, especially if it goes unused. While you’ll likely want your finished basement to stay comfortable, an unfinished basement can get by with minimal heat.

Proper Insulation Can Save You From Costly Heating Bills

While the earth does a good job of insulating the basements of homes in moderate climates, it may not cut it if you live in a northern state where temperatures are regularly below freezing. If your basement has framed-out walls, adding spray foam or rigid foam insulation can help keep warm air in the basement, saving you on heating bills. 

Whether you’re adding insulation or not, you should seal up any cracks in the basement floors or walls and ensure that your windows aren’t leaky. 

You Might Need to Add a Heating Source

If your unfinished basement doesn’t have a heating source, and you’re worried about the upcoming weather, now may be the time to consider adding one.

In my basement, I have a wall heater and an infrared space heater, which I use when harsh weather is forecasted. Other options to keep your basement warmer include baseboard heaters, radiant floor heating, wood stoves, and pellet stoves. Since heat rises (and tries to escape the basement), you can also utilize a ceiling fan, circulating it clockwise to push air down towards the walls.

The post Do You Need to Heat an Unfinished Basement in the Winter? appeared first on Homedit.

Reasons To Keep Cats Out

Cats may remove the odd rodent from your garden but the irritation they cause is usually not worth the small benefit.

• Health Risks. Cat feces can contain parasites like roundworms and bacteria like salmonella and E. coli which may remain in the soil for quite some time. Cats–especially feral cats–can carry many diseases including TB, rabies, and parasites.
• Plant Damage. Can dig out seeds and young plants while pooping.
• Yuck Factor. Shoving your bare hand into fresh cat feces while working on your plants.
• Cat Spraying. Male cats spray urine on buildings and plants to mark their territory. It stinks.
• Loss Of Birds. Cats kill many more birds in gardens than they kill mice.

How To Keep Cats Out

Using one or more of these environmentally friendly non-lethal suggestions will keep your gardens and flowerbeds cat, feces, and urine free.

Using Plants As a Cat Deterrent

The smell of some plants acts as a natural cat repellant. Grow them around the borders of your gardens and flower beds to keep cats on the outside. For larger areas grow the plants throughout the garden. Mix and match them to achieve the color scheme you prefer.

• Scaredy Cat Plant (Coleus Canina). Specifically bred by a German botanist to repel cats. This perennial plant gives off a strong odor–somewhat like Eucalyptus–when brushed against that keeps cats away.
• Common Rue.
• Marigold.
• Lavender.
• Geranium.
• Thorny Roses.

Essential Oil Deterrent

Certain essential oils repel cats. Mix up one part of your favorite essential oil with three parts water. Use a spray bottle to spray any area that cats are using as a toilet and any other likely spots. Essential oils that cats dislike include:

• Orange.
• Lime.
• Grapefruit.
• Citronella.
• Lemongrass.
• Peppermint.
• Lavender.
• Pennyroyal.

Essential oil spray should be renewed after a heavy rain.

Coffee and Cayenne Deterrent

Cats dislike the smell of coffee grounds and don’t like walking on them because of the texture. They hate the smell of cayenne pepper or black pepper. Mix coffee grounds and cayenne pepper and sprinkle it around the perimeter of your garden and between plants for extra protection.

Cats also dislike the smell of tea leaves. Break open a few tea bags and sprinkle the contents around your garden or flowerbed.

Ground Cover Deterrent

Cats are particular about the texture of what they are walking on. Spread some of these items around and in your garden to keep cats out.

• Pine Cones and Needles.
• Mulch. Wood chips. Crushed rock. Pea gravel.
• Mesh and Netting. Old mesh onion or potato bags or garden mesh.
• Plastic Forks. Stuck in the ground tines up. (Clear ones don’t stand out as much.)
• Chicken Wire. Or plastic fencing. Laid on the ground or stretched over the garden or flowerbed.
• Cat Deterrent Mats. Available online, from garden centers, and home improvement outlets. Plastic or metal spike mats.

Sound and Light Deterrent

Cats are easily startled by sudden loud noises and movements and flashing lights. Some things you might want to try include:

• Ultrasonic Cat Repeller. Available online or from home improvement outlets. Solar powered. Emits ultrasonic sound and flashing lights to drive cats away.
• Wind Chimes. Hung over flower beds.
• Foil Pans. Filled with pebbles; they make noise on breezy days.
• Light Reflectors. Like pinwheels, disks, old CDs, or anything that flashes light and moves.

Water Deterrent

Cats hate getting wet. Install a motion-activated water sprinkler system that will spray when a cat enters the garden or flowerbed.

Hair Deterrent

Human and dog hair keeps cats away. For small areas, you may be able to collect enough hair from the brushes in your house. If you need a lot of hair, try to get your barber, hairdresser, or dog groomer to collect hair from their cuts.

Spread the hair about three or four inches wide around the perimeter of your gardens or flowerbeds. Stake mesh over the hair to keep it from blowing away. You get the double deterrent of the smell of hair and the texture of the mesh.

Commercial Spray Deterrent

Buy commercial cat repellent spray, oil, or powder. They usually contain organic mixtures including cloves, garlic, and citronella. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent cats from messing with your gardens.

Paintball Deterrent

If you spend a lot of time in your garden, consider carrying a paintball gun to run them off. Paintballs are not lethal, and they can be fun to use–especially when the cat is not shooting back—as long as you don’t start spraying your house, fence, or car.

Dog Deterrent

Most dogs dislike cats. If you have a dog with an attitude and a way to keep it on your property, you have an excellent cat deterrent as long as the dog has no interest in digging up your gardens.

The post How To Keep Cats Out Of Flowerbeds and Gardens appeared first on Homedit.

Children’s Furniture and Toys

Bleach is a great disinfectant but toxic if ingested. It is also linked to skin rashes, eye irritation, and breathing problems. Children spill food on high chairs and car seats. They chew on toys. Rub their eyes after touching things. Bleach can be diluted down to safe levels but why take the chance? Just don’t use it on children’s furniture and toys.

Pets chew on their toys more than kids do. Keep pet toys bleach-free.

Wood

Don’t bleach any wood–floors, decks, furniture, cutting boards, tables, etc. Wood is a porous material that absorbs bleach and can’t all be soaked up or wiped off. Bleach damage includes:

• Discoloration.
• Stripping finishes like oil, paint, and wax.
• Dries out wood making it brittle.
• Can cause warping and cracking.

Upholstery

Trying to remove stains on upholstery with bleach usually causes more harm than good. It weakens the fabric leading to fading, tearing, and holes in the material. Bleach can remove the color from the upholstery and cause bleach spots.

Metals

Bleaching metal results in oxidation and rust. The list includes stainless steel, copper, aluminum, cast iron, silver, and more. Bleach breaks down the chrome on faucets and drains causing corrosion and eventually rusted fixtures. Stainless steel becomes streaky with repeated bleaching and can become rusty over time.

Glass and Mirrors

Bleach is difficult to rinse off of glass and mirrors–leaving a streaky cloudy-looking finish. Bleach can damage the backing on mirrors–reducing the reflective properties. It can cause caulking and weatherstrip to disintegrate or peel off window frames.

Porous Countertops, Tiles, and Grout

High-end countertops like marble, granite, quartz, and concrete are actually porous and absorb bleach. The result is often disastrous. Color changes, etching, pitting, and it will strip the finish off.

Grout and some tiles are porous and grow mold. Bleach kills mold–but only surface mold. Mold spores beneath the surface continue to grow where bleach can’t reach it. Below surface mold eventually starts growing on the substrate and can lead to rot.

The post Things You Should Never Use Bleach To Clean appeared first on Homedit.

Too much snow on the floor can lead to your hardwoods or laminate floors warping and, sometimes, causing mold or discoloration. And salt can cause unsightly white marks that are hard to remove.

Fortunately, a few simple solutions can help you keep the excess snow off your delicate wood flooring.

Utilize a Heavy Duty Outdoor Mat

A heavy-duty outdoor mat that family members and guests can scrape their feet against to dislodge snow and salt is the first step to keeping your floors safe. 

Opt for a mixed material mat made of rubber with artificial grass or another type of raised texture to help wipe snow off of feet.

Place a Plastic Shoe Rack or Tray Next to the Door

If you have a mudroom, an entrance with tile, or another waterproof flooring option, take your shoes off there. If walking straight into your hardwoods is your only option, lay out a floor runner area rug and a plastic shoe rack or tray to set your shoes.

Immediately remove your shoes and place them on the plastic shoe tray so that water doesn’t have a chance to make it to the floor.

Skip Indoor Waterproof Rugs

While placing a waterproof mat inside your front entrance might sound like a good idea, it’s a huge mistake. When moisture gets tracked in and seeps under the mat, it won’t be able to evaporate. Instead, the mat will trap it, leading to the moisture issues you’re trying to avoid.

Instead, use area rugs in the entrance and do your best to rid your shoes of snow before you walk into the door.

Consider a Tile Entrance

Tile-to-hardwood transitions in the entrance not only look good but serve a practical purpose—they can handle the moisture that your hardwoods can’t.

Since you only need to tile a small portion of the floor, you can splurge, selecting high-quality tile that will suit the look of your home. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are two of the best options for snowy climates since they won’t be harmed by a little bit of moisture or salt. (Skip more delicate types like marble.)

Keep a Broom and Dustpan Handy

A few minutes of sweeping up tracked-in snow and salt can keep your hardwoods pristine. We recommend keeping a small broom and dustpan by the entrance, as well as a few towels in case you need to soak up melted snow.

You should also vacuum your hardwoods regularly during winter to remove any salt or winter debris you missed with the broom. If you notice white salt marks (calcium chloride marks) on your hardwoods, neutralize and remove them by sweeping and then wiping the affected area with a water and vinegar mixture. You can make this by adding ⅓ cup of white distilled vinegar to a gallon of water. 

The post 5 Solutions for Keeping Snow Off of Your Hardwoods this Winter appeared first on Homedit.