Today is National Relaxation Day! Yes, there’s a day dedicated for us to take it easy. A day where everyone is encouraged to slow down, unwind, and simply focus on taking care of ourselves. However, with our fast-paced and often hectic lifestyles, plus the unprecedented challenges we are facing because of the current pandemic, it is even harder to relax these days. Good thing there’s science to back us up. Here are 7 scientifically proven ways that help reduce stress.
1. Get a plant
Spending time in nature improves your overall well-being but did you know that studies have shown that even just a little greenery is great for your health? Yes! One tiny plant cant makes a difference. So what are you waiting for? Bring some plants to your home and office to add zen to your space. Check-out our article on the 10 House Plants to Start your Collection:
Bananas B-vitamins, like folate and vitamin B6, are key to the production of serotonin, which can help improve your mood and reduce anxiety.
3. Mow the Lawn
Let’s face it, knocking this task off your to-do list will give you one less thing to stress about. But more importantly, research shows that a chemical released by a mowed lawn—that fresh-cut grass smell—makes people feel happy and relaxed.
4. Listen to Music
Any music you enjoy can make you feel better, but classical music, in particular, has been shown to slow heart rate, lower blood pressure, and even decrease levels of stress hormones.
5. Get a pet
It’s been proven by studies that people with companion animals have lower blood pressure and are more chilled out when comforted by a furry friend.
6. Find Something to make you laugh.
Watch a funny video, exchange jokes, or read a funny book. Whatever it is, find something and do something that will make you laugh. Laughing helps you relax by increasing the endorphins released by your brain.
7. Eat Chocolate
One of the easiest and most satisfying way to help your body release endorphins is to eat chocolates. YEP! Studies show that even just 40 grams of dark chocolate a day can help you de-stress.
In this article, we are bringing you 5 ways to stage your home perfectly for a showing. Which tip is at the top of your list? Comment down below!
Decluttering should be the first factor to come into play when having a home viewing, but shockingly enough, some homeowners don’t take this into enough consideration. They assume that if the house is relatively clean, then the task of cleaning can be checked off their list, despite things such as mail and supplies still being in view. When having a showing, all areas of the home need to be given full commitment. Random items such as mail and sheets of paper should be kept out of sight. It is also important to note that these things should be properly stored verses shoved in a drawer because some viewers at showings aren’t shy about opening up drawers. For example, it is recommended to keep closet doors in bedrooms open. Why is this? This is so because it serves as another way for the home to boast its cleanliness. If viewers were to have a positive view of a room, only to open up a closet filled with piles of laundry and junk, their opinion of the room (and home) could change drastically. In having a showing, you simply want the space to look clean cut and not looked lived in. Our next point explains this idea further.
When viewing a home, one of the main factors potential home buyers look for is if they can visualize this space as their own. How does one ensure they are able to check this off of their list when perusing a home? The best way to achieve this is by turning a home into a blank canvas for viewers. This doesn’t mean purging the home of all the things that give it its charm, such as decorative bowls or artwork, but to simplify the house to its most basic form so that others are able to create their own visual of their life inside this new space. Temporarily taking down things such as family photos while others are observing the home will help create this blank canvas for viewers and increase the chances of having an offer put in on the home.
The use of earth and neutral tones are great ways to set the canvas for home showing viewers. These shades are versatile and can fit just about any aesthetic. Earth and neutral tones include shades such as soft browns, olive green, clay grays and cool mustards. These shades are simple and immensely beautiful to the eye, allowing viewers to picture themselves and desired decor in the space. As we discussed in our previous article about earth tones, lighting plays a key role when utilizing these shades. If you use deeper earth-toned hues, invite more light into that space by opening blinds and keeping a well lit light on at night. If you opt for lighter tones, the use of light won’t be as strongly needed.
Aromatherapy is a fantastic way to tap into the senses of potential home buyers. Not only do they have a positive impact on our health, they also have a positive impact on our mood. Aromatherapy is a great way to influence feelings of positivity in activating the brain’s limbic (emotional) system. Essential oils are also great for easing an anxious mind by lowering stress.This can play a huge role in influencing a possible offer being put on a home and is a feature that many like to incorporate in home showings. Popular essential oils include lavender, lemon, cedarwood and jasmine. Choose a scent you believe will invite guests to dive deeper, further explore the home and visualize their new lives in it.
Reorganizing furniture is a great way to transform the home into a model-like space for viewers. In our own homes, we may arrange furniture in a way that is unique to our home and defies conventional interior design blueprints. When setting the stage for a home viewing, it is important to keep things, including the arrangement of furniture, simple. This will create open space for viewers as they explore the home and allows them to visualize furniture they find fitting for this space. Get rid of any extra furniture that takes up space and doesn’t fit the overall aesthetic, especially if the piece is of a different texture and tone; these pieces can be an eyesore for viewers! Getting rid of this extra furniture also encourages additional open space to be created. Rearranging furniture is a perfect way to create an open, breathable and simple space for yourself and for viewers.
In this article, we are bringing you 10 easy ways to increase your home’s curb appeal!
Keeping the lawn in pristine condition is a competitive game many people play with their neighbors, even though the match was never outwardly declared. Why are we obsessed with our lawns? The lawn is one of the first things that catches the eyes of our neighbors, visitors and those who are passing by. Homes that have fresh and well-kept lawns attract visitors and those passing by because it shows the owners care about the home and there is a greater chance that the inside of the home is just as nice and well-groomed as the outside.
Doormats are a great and easy way to add stuttle charm to your home. Invest in a new mat if your current one looks a bit worn down. There are many doormats on the market to choose from. Some have bold colors, others with humorous messages. This is a great way to give the home a little personality, as this mat will greet those planning on entering the home. Find mats on Amazon or at your local home supply store.
Most won’t admit it, but seeing the difference power washing surfaces makes is so satisfying! This is a great way to add curb appeal to your home. It’s the same concept as the lawn. When surfaces are well-groomed, people will be attracted to that home, no matter how big or small the home may be. Power wash the driveway, any brick surfaces and the panels around the home. Keeping these looking fresh is a sure way to attract potential buyers.
Having a charming front door is a sure way to peak the interest of possible buyers. When you see a home with a bold red or yellow door, what are some thoughts you may have about the home? Some might ponder over what the interior design of the home looks like, and judging by the design of the door, the interior is probably just as nice! Paint your door a new shade that really captures the essence of your home. Adding wreaths is another way to take your front door game to the next level. If you are having a hard time finding a look for your front door, find some inspiration on our Pinterest page!
A beautiful front porch is something that will capture anyone’s attention. If you have this feature in your home, now is a better time than ever to spruce up this space. If you have decent furniture, ensure it is looking its best by giving it a good clean. It is also important to ensure this space isn’t overly cluttered with furniture. Keep it simple. Based on the size of your porch, 2-4 chairs should do.
Flowers capture the eyes and hearts of many! Flowers have a long-term positive effect on mood. Participants from studies have reported feeling lower levels of depression, anxiety and agitation when presented with flowers. Participants also reported feeling more satisfied with life. Incorporate plants in the front garden and/or in window boxes. Choose flowers that have beautiful colors and designs that will catch the eyes.
Symmetry in interior design stands out beautifully. The clean lines created with symmetry create a mirroring effect and also a sense of balance. This type of balance is often seen in nature. Connecting our homes with this remarkable element of nature promotes feelings of calmness and stability. Symmetry in the home can be created through specific arrangement of furniture, patterns and color. In creating curb appeal, use the element of symmetry in things such as the furniture on the porch and the placement of plants in the garden. If you are unsure of where to start in trying to promote symmetry in your home, find some inspiration on Pinterest by searching ‘interior design symmetry’. You are sure to find lots of inspiration and ideas on that site!
Clean gutters is something home buyers look for and is something that can instantly increase your home’s curb appeal. Why is this? Unkempt glutters can take a toll on the exterior of your home. Unkempt gutters that overflow can cause stains on your siding and even rot the material. This is especially true for wood siding if they stay wet. Having constant water in your gutters can also cause them to corrode and water will leak from the side of your home and cause rust stains. By keeping the gutters clean, you can prevent all of these blemishes on the outside of your home, increasing the curb appeal.
Windows are another aspect of the home that should be well-maintained in order to increase curb appeal. Seeing windows that are covered in filth is a sure way to turn off potential buyers. Windows reflect what potential buyers can expect inside the home. If the windows are coated in a dirty film, their impression of the inside of the home won’t be what you were hoping for. Don’t look over this tip!
If you have fencing, ensuring that it is well-kept is essential when trying to increase curb appeal. Fencing ties in with landscaping, it’s one of the first things to catch a potential buyers’ eye. When repainting the fence, choose a shade that fits your home’s aesthetic. Some popular shades include grays, whites and browns. Choose wisely and keep it simple!
In this article, the Indy Home Pros team is bringing you 5 unique homes from around the world! Which home would you be able to live in? Which design do you find most unique? Leave us a comment down below!
Design by Sou Fujimoto Architects
This transparent home in Tokyo, Japan is a showstopper! Totaling just 914 square feet, this home captures the essence of organization and simple structure that is engraved in Japanese culture. The home was built by Sou Fujimoto Architects. The inspiration for this home stems from the idea of living within a tree and that everything is connected. Ancient predecessors in this culture once lived in trees and these architects wanted to go back to their roots with a modern twist. The drawback that many people would find in this unique home is the lack of privacy. The home is coated with windows on all sides except for the side next to their neighbors. In order for this transparent design to work, it was critical that this home be created on a corner lot. Despite the lack of privacy, the invitation of sunlight is absolutely stunning! In 2019, this transparent home was listed at $4.995 million dollars. Could you live transparently in this home?
Design by Tony Alleyne
Beam us up Scotty! This home is truly out of this world. Star Trek fanatics and those who aren’t fans of this timeless tv show will both find this home jaw dropping! The home originally started out as a one bedroom studio apartment before it was transformed into a Star Trek haven. After 10 years in the making, this home captures the aesthetic of classic Star Trek ships to a tee. In the home comes futuristic LED lights, high tech technology to control various areas of the home and even galactic sound effects to make residents feel as if they are truly living in a spacecraft like the beloved characters on the tv show and films. One cool feature is that the doorbell plays an audio sample of Patrick Stewart’s voice when a guest has arrived. It was listed on the market at $100,000.
Design by Klaudiusz Golos and Sebastian Mikiciuk
This unique home allows guests to view life from a different perspective. The Upside-Down home was the first of its kind built in Germany in 2008, and inspired many others to follow a similar blueprint. The goal of this Cape Cod-style home was to give visitors a chance to view things we see in our everyday lives from a new perspective. Everything but the stairs in this unique home has been flipped upside down. The project was labeled Die Welt Steht Kopf or “The World Upside Down”. The home resembles WonderWorks Emporium, a museum in Gatlinburg, Tennessee famous for its unique and captivating attractions. The home is open year round for vistors to view a world upside down!
Design by Jakub Szczesny
This home in Poland has been deemed the world’s narrowest house. Polish architect Jakub Szczesny of Centrala first brought the idea of this home to the table during the WolaArt festival in 2009. After 3 years of building, the home was finally complete and his vision brought to life. The home was built between two existing buildings and stretches only 152 centimetres wide, its narrowest point reaching no more than 92 centimetres wide. Despite its limited range, the home is a fully functioning space and defies the concepts of traditional architecture. The design of this unique home is clean cut, simple and is two levels tall. On the first level, one will find the bathroom, consisting of a toilet and shower. There is also a kitchen, complete with sink, stove and storage. This level also holds a dining section, a narrow table and two chairs that are connected to the wall. Across the way, lies a space to relax on a bean bag. On the second level, one will find the bedroom. This space holds a large bed, narrow closet and even has just enough space for a desk and chair. Could you live in this unique space?
Design by Mauro Brigham from Bham Design Studio
Architect Mauro Brigham has really out done himself with this one! A water tower, once known as Chateau d’eau, was converted into a stylish and fully functional home. The tower reaches 30 meters high, providing an excellent view of the city for residents. The height of this unconventional home also provides residents and guests with privacy. For renovation, the interior was completely updated and the windows enlarged. The interior design for this space is simple and modern, its color and texture palette consisting of white, stainless steel and various shades of gray. The 250,000 liter water basin was kept in order to stay true to the original design of the water tower. The owners have turned this into a chalkboard, its surface adorned with little notes and hearts. This simple element adds to the sense of comfort and homeyness to this unique space provides.
The Indy Home Pros Team is back again to bring you another Amazon list! In this article, we are showing you 5 more amazing eco-friendly products that are perfect for the home. For your safety, we recommend waiting to order non-essential packages to avoid potentially spreading viral infections during this time. For now, we encourage you to simply add these amazing items to your cart or wishlist and order when conditions are ideal. Be sure to wear your mask, engage in social distancing and keep your hands clean. Thank you!
In 2019, the world saw the destruction that plastic straws cause on the planet. Plastic straws have infested our oceans and sea creatures. A distressing video from 2015 shows a sea turtle with a plastic straw stuck in its nose. The turtle was removed from the water and rushed to shore where professionals removed the plastic from its nose. The removal was a scary sight and one that made us think twice about the use of plastic straws. The United States alone uses 500 million plastic straws every single day. It has been estimated that 8.3 billion straws coat our beaches. An astonishing 8 million tons of plastic flow into the ocean every year, and shockingly, straws comprise only 0.025 percent of that waste. How can we reduce the usage of plastic straws or ban them for good? The answer is glass straws. By switching over to glass straws, we are able to eradicate the usage of plastic straws and the havoc it wreaks in our oceans. These glass straws from Amazon are affordable, come in 2 different styles and come with a brush tool to thoroughly clean the straws. They can be used in hot or cold drinks and can be easily recycled once they are no longer needed.
Toilet paper harms the planet in more ways than one might initially assume. On average, American holdholds use about 3 rolls of toilet paper a week, or 28 pounds of toilet paper a year. This means that 4 percent of the world’s population is responsible for 20 percent of total tissue consumption. Insane right? Toilet paper production harms our planet by cutting down our trees. What is a way to switch over from traditional toilet paper? Bidets are an amazing alternative! Americans haven’t grown too fond of bidets in comparison to our Eurpeans neighbors, but it’s time we learnt a lesson or two from them! Bidets are a great alternative to toilet paper in many ways. One way is that it eliminates possible irritation that may occur due to chemicals present in toilet paper. Many people have bad reactions to toilet paper because the chemicals put into it aren’t exactly too friendly to our bodies. The most toxic chemical in most toilet papers is chlorine. This chemical should never be placed anywhere on the body. Bidets completely eliminate this health threat, halt pollution of toilet paper and emlimates the need to cut down trees for toliet paper.
Traditional sheets pride themselves on being made of 100 percent cotton. The issue with this is that cotton production isn’t exactly great for the planet or for ourselves. This production of cotton uses lots of water, more than what the average person might assume. It takes more than 20,000 liters of water to produce one t-shirt or pair of jeans. Most fabric is also not made of organic cotton. What does this mean? Many brands advertise that their material is made from 100% cotton. This makes us think that we are receiving clean cotton that will feel great on the skin. The issue with this is that we aren't really buying the clean cotton that we think we are recieving. Most brands do not use organic cotton. Cotton that is not organic is infested with pesticides and other harmful things. What is an alternative to this to ensure we are putting safe and clean material on our skin? Bamboo is a great alternative to cotton! One of the best things to switch over to first would be your sheets, the fabric you cozy up with every night. These bamboo sheets from Amazon are well priced, come in a variety of beautiful shades to match any bedroom aesthetic and are smooth to the touch. The range of sizes is also sure to have what you are looking for. These bamboo sheets ward off bacteria and are hypoallergenic.
It’s no secret that water bottles are a huge issue in pollution. These things are truly the gnats of the garage world. 80 percent of water bottles end up in landfills. These landfills are overflowing with nearly 2 million tons of plastic water bottles. The decomposition rate of water bottles is just as shocking. For a single water bottle, it takes 1000 years for it to decompose. These bottles are infesting our waters and filling up landfills at an astonishing rate. It is our duty to do what we can to eliminate the use of these bottles for the longevity of our planet. Check out this reusable water bottle from Amazon. It looks like a regular water bottle, but is actually made out of a thicker and recyclable plastic. The opening of this water bottle is also wider so you are able to infuse things such as fruit into your water. They are BPA-free and hold 16.9 ounces of water. Ditch traditional water bottles that are infesting our planet and choose a reusable water bottle that is easy to clean and will last you for years.
Trash bags are discarded every 12 minutes. It takes a minimum of 500 years for a single trash bag to decompose. These biodegradable trash bags from Amazon are well priced and come in a large quantity. They are plant based, made from sugar cane materials versus fossil fuels like traditional trash bags are. These help stop traditional trash bag pollution because they are able to decompose at a much faster rate. There are various kinds of eco-friendly trash bags you can purchase, each with their own pros and cons. Some people prefer compostable trash bags, others biodegradable. Research the available options to see which bags you think will have the greatest positive impact on the environment. Get rid of traditional trash bags and switch them out for some that are better for the planet.
The Indy Home Pros Team is back again to bring you another Amazon list! In this article, we are showing you 5 amazing eco-friendly products that are perfect for the home. For your safety, we recommend waiting to order non-essential packages to avoid potentially spreading viral infections during this time. For now, we encourage you to simply add these amazing items to your cart or wishlist and order when conditions are ideal. Be sure to wear your mask, engage in social distancing and keep your hands clean. Thank you!
Have you ever thought about how many Ziplock bags your home goes through a month? Most people don’t think this over due to each bag being so easily disposable. The average American uses 500 Ziplock bags every year. Whew! How can we reduce this number? The answer lies in reusable sandwich bags. These reusable sandwich bags from Amazon are the perfect replacement for traditional plastic sandwich bags. They run for $14.99 for a pack of 15. These eco-friendly bags are made from food grade material that is PBA, chloride and lead free. They are durable and able to properly store various foods such as fruit, vegetables, sandwiches and more. The double ziplock closure ensures no liquid can escape. The bags are not dishwasher friendly (however they are freezer friendly), but are easily cleaned by hand with soap and water. Once you no longer need the bags, they can be recycled. They are easily burned and not harmful to the environment.
Cotton rounds play a big role in many people’s skin and nail care routine. When we pick up a pack of cotton rounds, we can get a large quantity for a low price. Have you ever thought where all 100 cotton rounds go after you have used up your supply? Unfortunately, these products have a negative impact on our environment. Cotton rounds are not recyclable and add to landfills. It is our duty as residents of the Earth to ensure we do what we can to not add to the waste in landfills by using eco-friendly products. These reusable cotton rounds are a perfect substitute for traditional cotton rounds. These cotton rounds come in 3 beautiful pastel shades and come in a pack of 16. This one pack of 16 cotton rounds is the equivalent of the usage of 2000 traditional cotton rounds. It’s incredible how much we are able to save by switching over to reusable products! Use them to remove makeup or pollutants from outdoors. These pads are created from soft material that will not wear over time. It is even suitable for cleaning the delicate skin of a baby’s face. These pads are easy to clean and are easy travel with. Replace traditional cotton rounds that add to landfill with these beautiful, reusable rounds.
The washing machine can do a lot more damage to our clothes than we think. It can cause our clothes to wear quicker, snag fabric or create those dreaded balls of lint that stick to the fabric. How do we keep our clothes looking fresh over time so we aren’t having to constantly replace the same articles of clothing? These reusable washing bags will help you do just that! These washing bags will protect your clothes from tangling and snagging while in the washer or dryer. They are made from durable nylon that is sure to withstand the test of time. These bags also help various colors from fabric not bleed onto other articles of clothing. This eliminates the need to have multiple washes in order to wash certain pieces separate in fear of dyeing a shirt a different shade. This will also help save the amount of water you use in your home when doing laundry. The bags come in a variety of sizes for various articles of clothing. These bags are especially useful for delicates such as undergarments, active wear, sweaters, baby clothes and more. The clothes are secure in the bag with a strong zipper. The zipper can also be tucked under a seal for extra security. These are a must have for every home!
Above, we asked how many plastic Ziplock bags you go through. For this section, how many plastic grocery bags do you think you go through? Where do you think these go once discarded? American use an astonishing 100 billion (yes billion) plastic grocery bags every year. These 100 billion grocery bags collectively needed 12 million barrels of oil to be produced. This means that 14 plastic bags equate to the amount of gas needed to drive for approximately one mile. These plastic grocery bags that we waste end up in our oceans and landfills. 80% of plastic bags that are in landfills end up drifting into the ocean. They coat our streets and harm ocean life. The use of reusable grocery bags can help reshape our plant drastically. These reusable grocery bags are well worth the $20.00. They come in one solid color and come in a great size. The fabric is heavy duty, ensuring that your groceries won’t be too heavy for each bag. The straps are also just as strong. These flexible bags are foldable, making it easy to fold and store the bags in a small space until you are ready to use them. We recommend folding them down and keeping them in the truck of your car. This way you never forget to grab them while heading to the grocery store. These bags can be used for groceries, when going on a picnic or when attending an event in which you may need to bring supplies. They are suitable for any occasion.
It’s no secret that KCups wreak havoc on the environment. These little plastic cups remain in landfills in abundance. Some are able to be recycled, but many are not. Keurig’s slogan is “Brew a Better World”, but unfortunately KCups don’t help us live up to that message. The amount of KCups present in landfills are abundant enough to wrap around the plant 10 times. Fortunately, an alternative has been created. We now have reusable KCups available to us! Purchase a set of KCups on Amazon. They are affordable and come in a variety of quantities. Simply fill the cup with your desired blend, brew, then clean. Easy!
"There are two things that make a room timeless: a sense of history and a piece of the future." - Charlotte Moss
Using earth tones in the home serves as a way to incorporate nature and a feeling of balance in your space. Some earth tones include soft blush pink, mint, warm brown (both light and dark), black, gray, olive green, and indigo. When mixed with white designs, earth tones stand out beautifully, making a statement on walls and cabinets. Warm colors can also give the same feeling as earth tones. Warm hues include shades such as browns, tans, creams, and other soft neutrals. These shades invite a feeling of relaxation and comfort into a space. It is said that warm colors create an energetic space, but at the same time, creates balance. A way to incorporate these shades into your home is by using a wall as an earth toned accent wall. This is a simple way to introduce energy and color into a plain space. Light also plays a key role in this design. If the space has minimal light use a cooler tone. This will aid in brightening the room due to the lack of light. If your space is brighter, you are able to use a warmer color to balance out the amount of light present in that space.
Curvy shapes are making their way back into the world of interior design. The look ofters more rounded shapes can be traced back to 1970s design. Many people are ditching the look of harsh lines that some furniture can create and have turned towards curvy instead. Curves give the look natural waves that many find relaxing. In the midst of 2020, a feeling of relaxation is something we are all searching for! Curvy furniture can lean towards both neutral and bold colors. This range increases the amount of spaces this design can work in while also catering to the natural wave presence it gives. This elegance can be found in coffee tables, plants, chairs and couches. Some people even take it a step up and incorporate this look into wall art. People are ready to ditch the look of bold lines and exchange it for something that softer on the eye. These shapes aren't just for the 80’s and the 70’s. They are making a strong comeback this year and will be seen in many homes! This is why it is essential for interior designers to look far into the future when designing homes because interior designs always make their way back!
Yes, you read that right, floral wallpaper has made a comeback! Floral wallpaper is a great way to add beautiful accent walls into your home. If floral isn’t your style there are many patterns you can choose from to add a wallpaper accent wall into your home. Some designs include natural waves, animals and basic textures such as marble. Over the past years, there has been a keen eye for botanicals – green leaves, tropical vibes and jungle prints. However in 2020 traditional florals are making a huge comeback! These wallpaper designs are big and bold! They contain bright colorways blooms that really catch the eye. The best thing about florals is that they never are truly outdated. What changes is the intensity of the pattern and colors. In some years they are more bold and in others softer to the eye. It should be mentioned that the pattern should be eye-catching but not overbearing, meaning it should not contrast too strongly and still match the aesthetic of your home. Of course, when it comes to designing your own space, you are the captain and you are to play by your own rules!
In the wake of COVID-19, many of us have the luxury of working from home. Don’t take this for granted, as many others are unable to. With this, it is important to create a proper home office so that you are able to get work done in the proper environment. It is important to have a separate home office space. This creates a barrier between your work and the comforts of your home. Choose a space in your home where you have things such as wall plugs, and telephone and cable jacks if needed. It is also important to be sure that you have an adequate amount of space for your desk, chair filing cabinets, and etc. Having natural light and fresh air in this space is something that should be at the topic of your list. Working in a confined space can take a toll on anyone’s mental health. Be sure you create a breathable space by ensuring light is coming though a nearby window and that the space has good airflow. We recommend placing your desk in front of a window for this reason. Incorporating plants into your workspace is another way to ensure good mental health. Plants help oxygenate a room and helps raise your spirits. Take a trip to your local Lowe’s and pick out a plant that catches your eye!
“We are still learning about this new coronavirus, but it is likely that one way it spreads is through contaminated surfaces. Frequently cleaning surfaces should help.”
— Daniel M. Parker, PhD, Assistant Professor in the Department of Epidemiology at the University of California, Irvine
Keeping the bathroom free from germs is especially crucial in the wake of a pandemic, as the bathroom contains lots of bacteria and viral matter. Here are some main areas you want to focus on:
These areas of the bathroom are high contact surfaces. They carry lots of bacteria and should be disinfected on a routine basis. Bacteria thrives in warm areas. Keeping moisture out of the bathroom is crucial for this reason. After a shower, the bathroom is filled with steam and warm air. Prevent bacteria from multiplying in this time period by opening the window or by turning on the exhaust fan. After this, pull the shower curtain open so it stretches across the tub. This will allow the curtain and liner to fully dry and prevent moisture from growing mildew. Water repellents are also a great tool to utilize. Try using a water repellent like RainX on shower doors and walls to halt soap scum, water and minerals in its tracks. Who knew this powerful product could also be beneficial in the home! Use disinfectant sprays and wipes to wipe down door handles and counters on a daily basis.
Human beings shed a variety of items from our bodies and skin, including insect parts, pollen, chemicals, cosmetics, oils and so much more. Gross! There are a few ways to disinfect furniture to help rid your furniture of this. A few cleaning methods include spot cleaning, vacuuming, good hygiene and the use of disinfecting sprays; regular use of these methods goes a long way! Use Lysol over surfaces when all major cleaning is done. Waiting to spray a disinfectant spray last seals the deal and captures any additional bacterial/viral matter that was missed in the main clean. Some furniture will have removable cushion covers or a removable slip. Remove these covers and clean them in hot water. Once finished, place them on a rack and position it in an area of your home where it can air dry while being coated by the light of the sun. The sun's rays surprisingly helps kill bacteria. This is said to disinfect even wood from bacteria. Pretty cool! Be sure to also slap the cushions and fabric to release any dust or debris that has likely built up over time. Don’t be shy; you can really go to work. You may see clouds of dust collect into the air if a lot was built up. Follow through with a thorough vacuum cleaning with the attachment.
The kitchen can harbor a lot of bacteria, so it’s important to pay close attention to this area of the home. There's a big difference between cleaning and sanitizing. Cleaning means everything looks clean on the surface level, but bacteria and germs are still present. Sanitizing rids the surface of those germs. You need the right product to properly disinfect your home. Using an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-approved product ensures you properly disinfect your home. The EPA has highlighted several brands that are proven to be most effective at combating COVID-19. These brands include Lysol, Clorox and Sani-Cloth sprays and wipes. If you can't find any at your local shops, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-recommend creating a DIY disinfectant solution. Look up DIY solutions on websites such as Pinterest and Youtube who have lots of recipes to create decent home cleaners, most of which are free from harmful chemicals and use essential oils for smell. A daily cleaning schedule is crucial to stop germs in their tracks. It is important to note that when using wet wipes, surfaces need to remain wet for up to 10 minutes in order to be effective. Many brands contain alcohol, which can cause the liquid to dry quickly. This can make it difficult to keep the surface wet without re-wiping multiple times, meaning a waste of money and time. Choose quality wipes that will remain wet for up to 10 minutes for effective disinfection.
With COVID-19 on the rise with each passing day, understanding how to clean and disinfect rooms or areas where people with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infections have entered is vital to protect others who may enter that same space. This includes bedrooms. The virus has the ability to live on certain surfaces for days, making it easy to spread to those who come in contact with it. To prevent the spread of those germs, all hard surfaces such as nightstands and headboards need to be disinfected on a regular basis. Bedding should be washed in hot water. Dry them on high heat or allow them to air dry if the material is sensitive to heat. Pillowcases are especially important, as they have the most contact with your nose and mouth when sleeping. When using cleaning products, follow the instructions to ensure the product is able to do its job. If you use a spray, leave it on for a few minutes before wiping off. As we mentioned above, the surface that is being disinfected needs to stay wet for a duration of time. It’s the equivalent of using dry disinfecting wipes. They would be ineffective in this state.
“One moment of patience may ward off great disaster. One moment of impatience may ruin a whole life.” — Chinese Proverb
We don’t know how to stress this enough: wear your mask. This is just as crucial for those feeling ill as much as for those who seem to not have any symptoms; you can be asymptomatic and still test positive for COVID-19. For those who think they may have the virus, it is important that you get tested and stay away from others until you receive your results, because the last thing you would want to do is infect those around you. Also, you don’t know who is high-risk and who is not. Even if they themselves aren’t high-risk, they could spread it to their loved ones who are in fact high-risk. If you properly wear a mask in public and practice social distancing when out, you can feel good about knowing you are aiding in slowing the spread of COVID-19. Do not be careless in this regard. Wear a mask to protect yourself and especially others. You can make cloth masks at home or purchase a pair at a nearby shop. A way to test if your mask is strong enough to keep the virus out of your airway is to do the lighter test. Light a lighter, hold it a few inches away from your face then blow as hard as you can. The idea is to see if you can blow the flame out. If you can, chances are your mask isn’t strong enough to keep potentially infected air out. Invest in or create a stronger mask if you blow the flame out.
Warm water is an efficient way of helping blood and nutrients flow to your organs. Warm water also helps break up phlegm that has been building up in your lungs so that your body is able to cough it up and/or expel mucus through the nasal passage. One cup of warm water can make such a huge difference and many people are able to feel its soothing effects right away. Another way to help treat the body is by drinking a strong cup of warm ginger tea. Ginger is a very powerful antioxidant that helps the body fight infection, clear phlegm in the lungs, alleviate body aches and acts as a destressor. In the midst of a pandemic, stressing is expected, especially when you have suspicions that you may have the virus. Stress has never done the body any good and it especially will not do the body good now. It can cause anxiety which may cause shortness of breath and then you may be wholeheartedly convinced that you in fact have the virus, when in reality, you are just stressing yourself out. Another way warm water can help is through the use of a humidifier. Humidifiers kill bacteria and viral infections that may be floating around in your home. Invest in one to help keep the air around you clean. Breathing with the humidifier is also a great way to clear your nasal way and calm your nerves.
Since the early days of our youth, we have been told how important it is to keep your hands clean. We do this by washing the hands for 20-30 seconds with an adequate amount of water and soap. Some people keep themselves busy for these 20-30 seconds by singing the “Happy Birthday” song or by singing the “ABCs”. Right now, the state of the pandemic we are currently living in should be sufficient enough to keep us washing our hands regularly and under the proper conditions (duration and soap and water supply). Wash your hands before touching your face, in touching high-touch areas such as door handles (areas used by family members who may be high-risk), before and after eating, when coming home from being out no matter how long you’ve been away, etc. There’s really no bad time to wash your hands. Keep those paws clean.
Don’t feel shy when it comes to disinfecting your home on a regular basis. Your family members may think you have gone insane, but find comfort in the fact that your insanity to keep your home free from bad bacteria comes from a place of love for yourself and those around you, and that you want nothing more but to keep everyone safe. Develop a home disinfecting schedule to sanitize your home. Wipe down handles and other high-touch surfaces with disinfecting wipes. Important areas of the home to pay special attention to is the bathroom. The bathroom may be presumed as one of the cleanest areas of the home, but unbeknownst to many, the bathroom is actually an area of the home that has a very high bacterial count. Any time we swing the bathroom door open or close, or even flush the toilet, millions of bacteria fly around us and the bathroom, covering even your toothbrush, yes your toothbrush, in all kinds of disgusting matter. Keep this area clean for yourself and others. Also, spray beds and couches with antibacterial spray. Be sure to exchange dish washing towels as well so you are not spreading any viral infections to clean dishes.
You do so much good for yourself and others by simply staying home. Due to the nature of people staying out and not practicing proper safety precautions, this virus is infecting more people with each passing day. This is something that does not simply disappear. Getting this virus to go away will take time and dedication from all businesses and people. Until we reach this understanding, we will continue to have to live this way. Stay. At. Home. If you wish to get out, do so in small increments and follow proper protocol (social distancing, wearing a mask, etc.). Getting yourself and others sick is not worth it. When you put others before yourself, you end up putting yourself first. Wear a mask, practice social distancing and keep your space disinfected.
Who doesn’t love a new splash of color to change the look of a room? Color plays a key role in the design of any room because it rearranges reality. Generally, light and cool colors tend to open up a room. The kitchen makes for a great space for light colors. Dark and warm colors draw a space in. A basement could be a great spot to utilize dark colors. Make a decision on a new color based on what you think the space needs and what that room will be used for. A cool trick you can try is painting the ceiling. If a room is very large and doesn't feel all that comfy, try painting the ceiling. You want to paint it a darker color than the walls. This will make the ceiling appear lower and give a feeling of coziness to a room that once felt too spacious. This can also be done for rooms that feel too confined. If space feels tight, paint the ceiling a light color versus dark. A light color will expand the height of the ceiling verses shrink. The result will be a room that feels spacious and open.
Rearranging a room can make you feel like you are in a brand new space! You’ll be amazed at what a difference moving a bed or a couch to the other side of a room can make. When a room stays a particular way for years, it’s quite easy to start looking at it as a storage unit. Clothes start to pile up and any sense of organization goes out the window. It’s time to rearrange and organize this space. Get an idea of how you want this space to look, then start rearranging. Find a room layout temple on Pinterest if you are having a hard time discovering the proper layout for your space. After this, organize. This improves the overall functionality and comfort of this space. Pay careful consideration as to how you want to use this space and rearrange to meet those needs.
When you walk into a space, what is one of the first things you notice? Scent! Adding scents to a room is a great way to invite something new into a space. Using essential oils at home is a great and easy way to infuse your space with enchanting smells that will captivate anyone who walks in the room. Some popular scents include lavender, frankincense, peppermint, tea tree, eucalyptus, and many more. Each has a special function to target various areas of health. Essential oils can even be used in some cleaning products. Get rid of toxic household cleaners that hold a strong chemical smell and opt for natural ingredients that will ensure the safety of yourself, family and pets.
Wall art is a great way to add some creative energy into your space! There are a ton of places online to collect wall art from. Search your favorite platforms such as Pinterest or even Tumblr (yes Tumblr) for artwork that catches your eye. There are various styles to choose from. This is also a great way to support unknown artists. If you don’t see anything online that you like, decorate your walls with your own photography. Once you’ve found your art, frame them in the frames of your choice. We suggest investing in thin black frames. They are simple, match practically all art, are cost efficient and they create contrast with light walls.
Over time, white blinds are susceptible to turning yellow, and dirt and surface stains become easily visible. If your curtains are starting to look this way, changing them out is a great way to help improve that space! There are lots of blinds to choose from at local hardware shops. You can either go with the same look you had previously or switch it up and try a new look. The main thing to look for in blinds is to be sure that they are durable and will last over the years. Be sure to dust them one a month to ensure they stay looking new. Getting new curtains to pair with your new blinds will add to this home improvement. Choose a color you feel compliments this space the most. Don’t be afraid to play around with patterns either! On plain walls, the pop of a pattern looks incredible. You can find stylish and affordable curtains at places like IKEA and Target, or by shopping online. There’s a lot to choose from, so have fun and try something new!
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dennis@indyhomepros.com
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