Tag: tips

How To Clean Mesh Patio Furniture

Getting out and being with nature is one of the solutions to clear our minds and destress. The problem at times is that you do not have the time to go out or would just like to have your free time and rest at home. It will be no problem if you have a patio. You can just sit around and look at your garden or the nearby trees. No traveling needed.

But of course, a patio will require cleaning up or else your experience will be not so pleasant because of all the dirt. A patio also has different kinds of furniture made with different kinds of materials and one of those is the mesh

What is a mesh?

Like a web or a net, it is a material made of connected strands. It can be from strands of metal, fiber, or any other materials that are flexible.

What are the types and how Should you clean them?

It is mentioned above that mesh can be made from different types of materials. Patio furniture has only two different kinds though, and they are cleaned in different ways. Some may ask if they can just use an electric pressure washer to make things easier and faster. But the pressure will be too harsh to the materials that may cause them to break. Here are some ways instead per type:

Fabric

The solution you will use for fabric consists of one tablespoon of detergent and one cup of warm water. Before cleaning the mesh with it, remove the excess dirt and debris with a soft-bristled brush. Then use a dry, clean cloth and wet it with the solution then use it to wipe the mesh. Then rinse it with warm water. After rinsing, wipe it with a soft cloth and let it dry.

Plastic

As with the fabric mesh, the plastic mesh also needs to be dry-brushed to remove excess dirt and debris. The plastic mesh’s solution uses oxygen bleach. With half a cup of it mixed in with one cup detergent to a gallon of warm water. Apply it to the mesh with a clean cloth. Then rinse it with warm water and use a clean cloth to dry.

What about the arms and legs?

Your furniture also involves arms and legs that are usually made of metal. Of course, you will have to clean them up too. You will just need the solution of one tablespoon of detergent and one cup of warm water then wipe the metal with it. After that, rinse it with warm water then use a soft cloth to dry. To add or restore the shine, use a furniture paste wax.

What about mildews?

Mildews are quite common and not new but are bothersome. For you to get rid of them, you will just need half a cup of white vinegar mixed with one cup of ammonia and quarter a cup of baking soda in a gallon of water. Use a brush to apply. You can also use the vinegar to keep the mildews from fast-growing. Just mix in two cups of white vinegar and two tablespoons of a liquid dishwasher to a bucket of hot water then apply and let it dry with the sun.

Cath

How To Make A Small Apartment Homey

Having your own space is one of the great accomplishments we can have as an adult even if it is just renting an apartment. It may be not your own, but it is a start and the feeling is awesome. 

You can also still have it as your home and make it good as your own. You will just have your personality and interests within your apartment. It is not just about yourself but also to your friends and family that will come over. It should feel welcoming and homey to them. Can you do that even if your space is small? It can be, and here are some tips:

Decor

You can hang around some of your favorite artworks or your personal pictures. There could also be items that are sentimental to you, you can have that on display. On the shelves could be another set of framed pictures or any other personal pieces like trophies or certificates or any other prizes and awards. You can also put some plants to add life and color. And because apartments usually do not have much enough sunlight, you can get plants that do not them and they usually require little watering like a potted cactus. Another thing to consider is giving your home a signature scent, and you can do this by a scented candle or incense or air freshener. 

Furniture

Because you are just renting, you might be thinking to just get ones that are plastic. It would be fine, but it is not as homey as having real furniture. It will definitely not cost much, because you do not have to buy something brand new. Instead, you can go to thrift shops and look for something that fits you and your lifestyle. There will certainly be stylish options such as leather or velvet couches. If you always have visitors over or simply loves taking naps, you can have a futon or a daybed. Pretty coffee tables will also certainly be available, and why not add some side tables to mix?

Lighting

Lighting is almost always overlooked, but it is one of the elements that are important in making your apartment homier. It will do wonders if you have natural light and if so, let it in as much as you can. But it is not always the case for some apartment tough and if it is for you, you can always have the artificial ones. Just be sure you have enough. 

Clean Up

One of the things that stress people is a clutter. It will be a lot easier to clean for it is small, but it is also the reason your space will easily look tight. In addition to that, having a clean apartment will be good for your health, so have a schedule that will focus on cleaning your apartment.

Storage

Small spaces mean less storage. And as said before, clutter is one of the causes of stress. If you have stuff that you do not really need, just throw it away or give it to somebody who needs it. Be creative with storing your stuff. If your apartment does not have enough space, buy furniture that doubles as one.

Cath

How To Make Your Living Room Cozy

In having a home, it is not just about having a place to live in that you could eat your meals or sleeping at night. It is also a place where you can relax and clear your mind after a stressful day or even a day. It is a place you can enjoy and can do things you want. It is not only for you or your companions in your home, but it is also for your friends or family that will visit you. Your home should be welcoming that they themselves will feel at home.

You can definitely add your personal touches, but some things can help your home be warmer and here are some:

Plants

It is said that being with nature will be good for our health and will help to take away our stress. If you cannot go out every time, why not bring some in your home. You can have your garden, and can also add to your own living room. They can help with spaces and also for adding color and life to your room.

Rugs

With different colors and textures, rugs can easily make your living room cozy. You also do not need enough space for it. You can just have it under your sitting area, and you are good. Add to that, rugs also feel good and comfortable for your feet, so it might help you to be relaxed while watching television or reading or just sitting around.

Textures

Having different textures in your living room will also help it to be cozy. Rugs are already mentioned, but you can also add other things like throw pillows that are in different shapes and sizes and also some blanket that will help you keep warm on cold lazy days and nights.

Fireplace

Having a fireplace will help your mood to be set especially with the earthy smell of the burning wood. It will also help you a place to keep warm. But not all houses have the privilege to have one. You can still have an alternative like a gas fireplace. You can also look for electric fireplaces, and they can still work. If you do not have that much space, lighting candles are a good way to add coziness to your room.

Seating

There are a variety of seatings that comes in different shapes, sizes, and even textures available. Why just stick to one couch? As long as they complement each other and the whole room, you can add more like a big couch with smaller love seats or comfortable chairs. You can even add a rocking chair if you want to. Some ottomans are so versatile. There many available that can also double as storage. Then you can use them as a table or an extra seat. If you are having a lazy day, you can also use it as a footstool to rest your foot on.

Tables

Of course, you will need something to put on your food or drinks especially if you have visitors over. A coffee table is enough, but having side tables will add more room and delight.

Cath

How To Inflate Car Tires At Home

Nowadays, especially if you are not living in a city, having a car or any type of vehicle is a necessity. It will be less hassle compared to taking public transports or going to carpools. But of course, it does not mean it would be less expensive. Like us, vehicles need to be checked up, so you would know it is safe to use. If you fail to this, it might cause an accident. 

Car maintenance is not cheap. But if you can do it yourself, you might save a lot more. One of the most common things you will need to check in your car is the tires. It is necessary to guarantee your safety. With these simple steps, you can do it by yourself and do not need to go to an auto repair shop.

Checking Tire Pressures

  1. One of the easiest ways to check is investing in a digital tire gauge. You can keep it within your car, so you can use it anytime and anywhere.
  2. Be sure to check it while the tires are cold. It is said that the best time is during the morning. If you are driving it for a while, you will have to wait for at least 30 minutes to cool down before checking it.
  3. To check the pressure, place the gauge on the valve.
  4. Take note of the pressure and refer to it upon filling.

Inflating Tires

  1. Before anything, remove the valve stem caps. Set them aside in a safe place.
  2. To fill in tires, you will use an air pump or an air compressor.
  3. Like checking the pressure, inflating also should be done when the tires are cold.
  4. Have the air valve to the tire valve and hold it right there. 
  5. After filling all your tires, check it again with your gauge to be sure you have enough. You can add or remove the air. Just be sure to check it again.
  6. Remember to replace the caps after the inflation.

What if needs replacement?

There will be a time that inflation would not be enough. If your tire is completely destroyed by a nail or any other sharp objects, it will need to be brought to an auto repair shop. Age is also another reason. If it is already used in five years, it might need some inspection, but it might need to be replaced if it is already ten years. This is a precaution and your safety. Spare tires are included in this. Then there is also what they called a Lincoln penny test. You will have the penny placed upside down (Lincoln’s head) on the tire tread. If the entire head is seen, it is time to replace your tire. If it is only a small part, it might be a consideration but not totally in need. You can also check in a few areas to be sure. If you want it to be more accurate though, you might need a tread depth gauge or ask a professional. Another thing to check with your tire is damages. If there are enough, it might need some replacing.

Cath