Home Decor Ideas

Working from home can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, skipping a commute and getting to work in your pajamas is great. On the other hand, your house is filled with distractions and it can be hard to stay focused. I’ve worked from home for 13 years and every time I think I’ve conquered it, something happens to pull my focus. I’ve learned, however, that the trick to telecommuting is setting up your home office properly.

The way you design your home office can help you stay distraction and stress-free so you get your best work done in your home sweet home. Here are a few ways to make sure you’re able to stay on your grind.

A clear desk equals a clear mind. Image: Africa Studio/Shutterstock

Declutter the space

I know that I have a clearer head when my desk is decluttered and organized. It doesn’t need to be perfect, but creating organization spaces to get papers, mail and other stuff off of your desk can help you stay laser focused. While cabinets are your best bet, you can definitely use trays and file boxes to keep things tidy. Or invest in a wall-hanging file basket to get things off of your desk. When you sit down to work, keep only what you’re working on in front of you and stash the rest.

I also find that I work better if the rest of the house is tidy. Even if you have a separate home office, it’s hard to concentrate if you know the rest of the house needs some work. I like to set a timer for 10 minutes and do a quick decluttering in the main spaces before I sit down to work. It’s enough time to load the dishwasher, clear counters or start some laundry. Having those small, brain-cluttering tasks out of the way gives me more bandwidth to focus on work.

Adjust your computer for maximum comfort. Image: Artazum/Shutterstock

Get comfortable

You might think that working from bed is the ultimate in comfort, but anyone who works from home can tell you that it gets old. Having a comfortable, ergonomic space to work is the key to staying focused. Make sure your computer, desk and chair are adjusted for comfort. Your feet should be flat on the floor, your elbows should be at a 90-degree angle and the top of your monitor should be at or just below eye level. Comfort helps increase focus since you’re not being distracted by a sore neck or strained eyes.

A well-placed lamp can help you focus on what’s important. Image: Africa Studio/Shutterstock

Utilize lighting

My optometrist is always scolding me for my long hours on the computer. But while that can’t be avoided, you can use light to help you focus when working from home. Whenever possible, bring in natural light. It reduces eye fatigue and helps you stay energized. If your office is without natural light (basement workers, unite!), you can reduce eye strain by skipping harsh, blue fluorescent lighting. Bring in warm white light with a lamp and use it to shine a spotlight on your workstation. When you’re done, you can switch the light off on your desk — and your mind — to signify that the work day is done.

Use bookcases to create a dedicated office space. Image: PlusONE/Shutterstock

Create definition

Not everyone is lucky enough to have a separate home office with a door. Still, you need to create some delineation between your home and your home office. Without creating a clear workspace, it’s tempting to work longer hours or let projects seep into your personal life. You need a way to physically stop your work day and close the door between your professional and personal lives. Without it, you risk major work-at-home burnout.

No standalone office? No problem! Use bookcases or screens to give your workspace a defined look. You can also create an “office” using area rugs or even a different paint color on the wall. Even a pair of noise-canceling headphones can help put definition between work and your regular distractions. Do whatever it takes to create a separation between your work and personal life at home.

A well-stocked home office limits interruptions. Image: Africa Studio/Shutterstock

Keep must-haves on hand

It seems like every time I get up from my desk, I find a new distraction. Whether it’s getting the mail, giving my dog some love or noticing that my kitchen needs to be cleaned, the fewer times I get up, the better. I’ve learned to keep all of my must-haves in my home office so I stay put and stay focused. That’s not just office supplies like pens, notebooks and my trusty planner. It also means my beloved Keurig machine so I have quick access to drinks.

If you notice that you’re getting distracted when you have to get up, see what you can keep on hand. Stock your home office with coffee, quick snacks and whatever tech you need to be comfortable. Hey, if you were working in a regular office, you wouldn’t be leaving every time you got the munchies or needed a quick hit of caffeine. Treat your home office similarly and you can keep distractions to a minimum.

Working from home can be a blessing and a curse. While it’s great to get to set up your ideal situation, it’s all too easy to lose focus. By creating a home office that is comfortable, peaceful and stocked with your faves, you can work remotely without all of the distractions.

The post Working from Home? How to Set Up a Distraction-Free Home Office appeared first on Freshome.com.

In terms of functionality, the sink is a vitally important part of your kitchen. It’s an important consideration in the design of your kitchen, and is essential in the hallowed kitchen work triangle.

However, with so many styles to choose from, are homeowners choosing style over function? How can you determine which type of kitchen sink is best for your needs? Freshome asked experts from Kohler, Moen, Delta and Franke Kitchen Systems for tips on understanding the function of various kitchen sink styles.

The aesthetic appeal of the kitchen sink

When one sink is not enough. Image courtesy of Delta Faucets.

“With the evolving role of the kitchen leading to tasks beyond traditional cooking and cleaning, people are often selecting more secondary sinks,” explains Peggy Gallagher, Senior Product Manager at Delta. When choosing the right sink, Gallagher tells Freshome that there are several factors to consider, but she believes style is the main driver.

“Consumers are primarily looking for the right kitchen sink to complement their personal style,” Gallagher says. “More and more, people are not only cooking and eating in the kitchen, but also socializing, entertaining and using the space as a place to work.” In fact, she says that two-thirds of consumers are spending at least three hours per day in the kitchen. 

An additional island sink doubles the kitchen’s functionality. Image courtesy of Moen.

“The sink is the workhorse of the kitchen,” according to Chris Nealon, Product Manager of Disposals and Sinks at Moen. “From making morning coffee to scrubbing dishes at night, not to mention all of the hand washing, cup filling and cleaning that goes on in between, the faucet and sink area see a lot of traffic every day.” With so much going on, Nealon tells Freshome that it’s important to find a kitchen sink that fits homeowners’ needs while still providing an appealing aesthetic.

Kitchen sink styles

Add a pop of color with this red dual-bowl, undermount sink. Image courtesy of Elkay.

“Large, single-bowl designs are convenient for washing oversize cookware, while dual-bowl sinks allow for quick wash-ups and offer multi-tasking functionality for the home chef,” Nealon says.

Stainless steel farmhouse sinks are durable and stylish. Image courtesy of Moen.

“Regarding design, undermount sinks offer an appealing aesthetic, make cleanup a breeze and are the ideal complement to popular natural stone and solid surface countertops,” Nealon explains. “The exposed front wall of farmhouse sinks complements traditional kitchens well, whereas drop-in sinks offer added convenience with a quick and easy installation process,” he says. 

When only three sinks will do. Image courtesy of Kohler.

Another consideration when choosing sinks is determining which style will work best with your countertop material. “Top-mount, which is installed flush with the countertop, is often used with laminate counters,” explains Eric Moore, Senior Interior Designer at the Kohler Design Center.

With enough room for 2 faucets, this sink makes prep and clean up fast and easy. Image courtesy of Kohler.

Moore tells Freshome that undermount sinks, which are installed below the countertop, pair well with stone and quartz counter surfaces. “Apron-front sinks, which feature a farmhouse style, are available in undermount, top-mount and tile-in models,” he adds.

Durability

An apron front, stainless-steel, double-bowl sink. Image courtesy of Moen.

Stainless steel remains a popular choice among homeowners. In fact, according to the NKBA design trends report, it’s the most popular kitchen sink material. Nealon attributes some of this popularity to the fact that stainless steel matches commercial style appliances.

“Also, stainless steel sinks offer many benefits including resistance to chipping, cracking or peeling, and they also help reduce noise from dishes and vibrations,” Nealon says. For example, Moen’s SoundShield technology, standard on all stainless steel sinks, reduces vibration and noise caused by clanging dishes and the drumming sounds produced by running water.

This elegant Farmstead sink is conveniently located. Image courtesy of Kohler.

“We also recommend that homeowners seek out a sink with an evergreen look and durable construction that will stand the test of time both in style and in quality,” Moore says. Kohler’s Farmstead sink is a contemporary twist on the traditional apron-front sink crafted from durable cast iron. “Its unparalleled durability ensures beauty to withstand everyday wear and tear for years to come.

Multitasking kitchen sinks

A wide basin makes it easy to clean large pots and pans. Image courtesy of Franke Kitchen Systems.

“Whether cooking for dozens or hosting an intimate gathering for cocktails, the kitchen is an entertaining hub,” says Heather Jach, Retail Marketing Manager of Franke Kitchen Systems. “As the sink is a central element of this busy room, making the most of the space at hand is important no matter the design style. Today’s homeowner selects their sink based on both usage and aesthetic.”

Keeping your accessories nearby ensures efficiency. Image courtesy of Franke Kitchen Systems.

When you need to maximize workspace, functional sinks like the Franke Chef Center XL can be a lifesaver. “It has a wide basin that accommodates large pots and pans and a wide range of custom accessories — including a cutting board, colander, sink grid, mobile drainer board and Franke’s exclusive Roller Mat.” In addition, the two removable compartments can serve as a wine bucket, storage bin or place to compost, Jach adds.

The post Kitchen Sinks: How to Choose the Best Style for Your Needs appeared first on Freshome.com.

The prospect of organizing an attic can be a surprisingly daunting one. Unfinished attic spaces can be dark, cavernous areas where you’d rather not venture. They’re right up there with unfinished basements late at night, root cellars and dark crawlspaces under very old homes.  But by taking the time to organize an attic, you can breathe new life into the space. Your attic can go from being a dark, cobwebbed area best suited for ghost stories to a well-lit, organized and even multifunctional space.

As far as a timeline for this project goes, it can range from a single afternoon to several weeks. You might simply have items you need to organize and store more efficiently. Or you might want to look into getting less usable attics completely refinished, which could require a professional remodeler.

Costs to organize an attic can have a wide range as well. It can be free. It could even make you money if you clean out clutter from the attic and sell it. But if you have enough junk, you might consider renting a dumpster, which can run in the low to mid hundreds of dollars by the week. Refinishing an attic can cost in the mid to high tens of thousands if you wish to make the space livable.

Below we’ll cover several ideas for finally getting that attic in top shape, whether your goals are to have a well-lit, livable space or just a well-organized storage area.

Sorting things into piles can help take care of even the most formidable mess. Image: ChiccoDodiFC/Shutterstock

Sort and Get Rid of What You Don’t Need

If your attic is currently the place where you dump anything that doesn’t belong anywhere else, your first step is to sort and get rid of what you don’t need. It can be hard to look at the mess and know where to begin. However, there are several decluttering tips you can follow to get a handle on the chaos:

• Start by sorting things into piles. For instance, you might have a pile for holiday decorations, another for children’s artwork or class projects and maybe even a miscellaneous pile.
• After you have things in more manageable piles, sort between what you want to keep and what you can throw out. Have a garbage bag with you to immediately toss what you don’t need.
• Some of us struggle with what to throw out and what to keep. A rule of thumb is that if you forgot you owned it, it can probably be thrown out. Also, if you haven’t used it or looked at it in two or three years and it has no emotional significance, it can probably get tossed.
• As touched on above, consider renting a dumpster if you have a lot of junk to clear out.

If you can follow these rules to organize an attic, you may be surprised how much bigger the space feels when uncluttered.

Refinishing an attic could be your answer to getting an organized, usable space once and for all. Image: foamfoto/Shutterstock

Make Plans for the Space

A more involved way to organize an attic is to think about how to arrange the attic for multiple or new uses. When you think about it, the attic has the potential to be a whole other room or more. Several ideas of what to do with the attic include:

• A child’s play area
• An extra bedroom
• A reading nook or library
• A walk-in closet space
• A more intricate storage area

The attic could even be separated into different spaces if it’s large enough. You might want to sketch out what role different areas could play.

If you plan to make the space livable, you’ll need to consult with a professional remodeler. You’ll need to know about building codes, heating the space, electrical setups and other complex details.

Built-in shelving and drawer units are a great way to organize an attic. Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

Add Permanent Systems to Organize an Attic

If you’re just looking to organize an attic, another idea is to add organizational systems to your attic space. Ideas include:

• Built-in shelving
• Clothing racks
• Built-in cabinets
• Wall-mounted organizational units

Also, if there’s anything that requires protection from aging, you’ll want to get plastic, air-tight containers to store it. You can store anything else in bins, which fit especially well with added shelving.

And remember, label any bins while you organize an attic. It can also help to have those bins in organized sections, like a section for holiday decorations.

The post How to Organize an Attic Once and for All appeared first on Freshome.com.

Set up an outdoor bar to make the most of the summer. Pieces like the Abbott Brown Ultimate Bar can make it super simple. Image courtesy of Pottery Barn.

Summer is about to kick our outdoor time up a notch. And you know what that means: drinks al fresco. And yes, sure, you probably have a few bars and restaurants nearby that would happily serve you drinks on their patio — for a price. But why not shrink the expense of enjoying your beverage en plein air (and worrying about parking or a ride) by setting up your own outdoor bar? Want to seize the summer? Use this guide to set up an outdoor bar you can enjoy from the comfort of your own home.

Find your spot

First things first, you need to pick out a place for your bar. Ideally, it should be somewhere where both sun and shade are available. That could mean adding a patio umbrella or two, or it could mean positioning your bar under a tree, awning or pergola. You want to give yourself options to keep drinks in the shade but be able to enjoy the sun’s warmth if you want it.

Then, look for level ground. Drinks spill. It’s important to have somewhere flat to set up your bar to keep things as stable as possible.

Stock your outdoor bar

Now, let’s get into the fun stuff! Setting up your outdoor bar can transform your outdoor space, give you extra room for entertaining and help you grab some extra vitamin D and fresh air during the temperate months. But you’ll only use it if it’s got what you need to quickly and easily fix yourself a drink. Here’s what you should gather for a well-stocked bar.

A simple but sturdy bar cart, like the Bucksport Bar Serving Cart, could be all you need to get your bar started. Image courtesy of Wayfair.

Serving surface

First, you’re going to need a place to put everything. You can buy a weather-resistant bar (like these options from Wayfair) if you want to really set yourself up for success, but a simple serving cart can do the trick. Ultimately, you just want somewhere you can put a few bottles and pitchers without anything toppling over.

Weather-safe storage space

That said, you do need to consider where you’ll put everything when you’re not using your outdoor bar. And, sure, you could lug it all out from inside, but you’re much more likely to use your bar on a regular basis if it’s easy. A small, weather-safe cabinet could be all you need to keep any breakables or spillable items protected when your bar isn’t in use.

Cold storage

No one wants a lukewarm beverage. Make sure you have a place where you can keep things cold and where you can grab ice. That could be a mini fridge, cooler or even just a bucket that you stock with ice when you’re using your bar. If you go with the cooler or bucket route, consider adding an ice bucket into the mix so you can easily grab clean ice when you’re making a cocktail.

Stemless and in break-resistant acrylic, the Valencia Wine Glasses are perfect for outdoor use. Image courtesy of Anthropologie.

Break-resistant barware

Even if your outdoor bar is mere feet from your house, it’s still exposed to the elements. Wind can wreck even the best-laid plans, especially when glass is involved. Consider plastic or metal cups to give your barware some durability (and save yourself the hassle of trying to sweep up broken glass from uneven outdoor surfaces). Moscow mule mugs — like these ones from Crate & Barrel, which come in metal finishes well beyond the standard copper — can be a stylish and long-lasting addition to your bar.

Seating

To really make the most of your bar, you’re going to want to be able to get comfortable. Whether you add bar stools around a high-top table, Adirondack chairs or a couple of benches, adding some thoughtful seating touches can make all the difference. Outdoor pillows and a few throw blankets (Mexican blankets are ideal for their warmth and durability) can extend the hours of use for your outdoor bar well into the evening. If your outdoor bar is fairly exposed, choose a weather-safe storage space that can fit a basket of these comfort-adding touches to protect them and keep them clean.

Lighting and more

Speaking of evening enjoyment of your bar, don’t forget lighting. There are tons of solar options that prevent you from needing to have electricity at your bar. Citronella candles can add a nice ambient glow and keep pests away. You’ve got options, but don’t forget to think about how your bar will transition from day to night. Because, sure, we all love socializing during the day on a summer weekend, but the bulk of your bar’s use will probably fall later in the day.

Now that you’ve started setting the ambiance, we’ve got some more tips to help you make your outdoor bar feel like it’s set in an oasis.

With a built-in ice compartment, the Portside Outdoor Bar Cart can make entertaining extremely easy. Image courtesy of West Elm.

Serve it up

It’s time for the fun part! You’ve put in the work to get your bar dialed in. Now, you can kick back and enjoy it. If you’re hosting friends or family, make entertaining extra easy on yourself by taking a few steps to prepare.

• If you don’t have a fridge at your outdoor bar, get drinks on ice a couple of hours before people arrive. Even if you do, make sure you have clean ice accessible for cocktails. Pair it with a scoop or tongs for easy serving.
• Consider making a large pitcher of a signature cocktail to minimize the amount of bartending you’ll have to do. Then, offer wine, beer and hard alcohol with staple mixers like soda water, tonic, lemons and limes and you’re all set!
• If you have outdoor candles, set a reminder to light them on your phone to go off ten minutes before people arrive.
• Drape blankets over your seating so people know they’re free to use.

Then, kick back and enjoy! One of the best things about an outdoor bar is how easy it makes hosting — and cleanup. Someone makes a mess? No worries. You can just hose everything down later.

Cheers to the summer!

The post How to Add an Outdoor Bar appeared first on Freshome.com.

Who doesn’t love paint? It’s luscious and creamy and comes in every color imaginable. Regardless of the sheen — flat, eggshell, satin or gloss — painting is a great way to either radically or subtly transform your environment.  Your color choices are important because they can either stimulate the senses or create a sense of calm.

However, to achieve the perfect result, you can’t just start painting willy-nilly. Following these 10 commandments of painting can help to ensure success in your selection, prep and paint process.

Get inspired before you pick a paint color. Image courtesy of Benjamin Moore.

#1: Never uses swatches as the first step

Resist the impulse to just randomly select a color swatch and start painting. If you start painting on a whim, you may later decide you don’t really like that color. Take the time to figure out what you really like.

“Seek inspiration. Start by grabbing anything that appeals to you — anything that makes you stop for more than a couple of seconds,” says Andrea Magno, Benjamin Moore Color & Design Expert. If you tear out or pin enough pictures, she says you’ll start to see patterns emerge. “You’ll realize your eye is always drawn to dark greens, perhaps, or you find pastels fresh and appealing,” Magno says. “Maybe you like sharp contrasts, bright accent colors, gleaming white crown molding.” While black is the most stylish color of every year, some people prefer neutral colors like builder’s beige.

Make sure your color will work in the room. Image courtesy of PPG Paints.

#2: Choose your paint color last

Paint is available in a gazillion hues, but the same can’t be said for everything else in the room. “Before selecting your paint hue, it is important to first select new or consider your existing flooring, fabrics, window treatments and other fixed items that are staying in your room while you redecorate, since these furnishings have a limited color palette,” explains Dee Schlotter, Senior Color Marketing Manager at PPG Paints.

“Many homeowners paint their walls first, and then try to find bedding or furniture to accent with the wall color, which is difficult.” She recommends reversing this practice since paint colors are almost unlimited, and you can match and tint to almost any color. “Once the decor elements are considered, you can match your paint color or choose a complementary tone from the other colors in the home’s palette.”

Try it out on the walls first. Image courtesy of Benjamin Moore.

#3: Always use samples

Swatches are good, but nothing beats actual samples. “By painting out a sample on a piece of poster board, you now have a large sample that will provide a great representation of the color, and it will also help in understanding how a color reacts to the natural and artificial lighting in the home,” Magno explains.

Bold colors should be tried out in large sections. Image courtesy of PPG Paints.

Schlotter agrees. “Once you’ve narrowed down the color selection, PPG recommends purchasing a sample quart of the color and painting a swatch that is at least two feet by two feet so you can see the color against different lighting throughout the day and evening.” This will help you assess the color in both natural and artificial light.

Get your walls ready before you start painting. Image courtesy of Sherwin-Williams.

#4: Prepping is a must

Prep is the most important part of a painting project. “Prior to painting, remove surface contaminants with an appropriate cleaner, rinse thoroughly and allow to dry,” advises Mark Eichelberger, Senior Product Manager for Sherwin-Williams Consumer Brands Group.

If you’re painting exterior surfaces, Dan Schaeffer, Owner of Five Star Painting in Austin, recommends either power washing or otherwise cleaning the surfaces. “To make sure they’re dry, you can use a moisture meter to test moisture levels,” he says. “For shiny surfaces, you may want to sand to remove a sheen prior to recoating.”

And don’t forget to use primer — unless your paint contains it. “Primer typically does two things: it creates a surface on which the paint can bond and seals a surface so the finished paint is more uniform,” Schaeffer says.

Also, when you’re painting bare wood, like cedar and redwood, Eichelberger recommends a stain-blocking primer to cover knots in the wood. “Knots contain a high amount of tannin, a colored wood extract, which, if not properly primed, can bleed back in and show through the painted finish over time,” he says.

Create a smooth surface before painting. Image courtesy of Sherwin-Williams.

#5: Seal cracks and holes

Some DIYers try to seal cracks and holes with paint. Don’t do it. “When painting drywall, fill cracks and holes with patching paste and sand smooth,” Eichelberger says. Schaeffer agrees and adds that caulking the baseboards will make the paint job look clean and finished. “Also, caulking joints, especially exterior ones, is critical to sealing gaps so moisture doesn’t get in a house,” he says.

Give your paint a good stir before getting started. Image courtesy of PPG Paints.

#6: Most paint should be shaken and stirred

While James Bond prefers “shaken, not stirred,” you can do either with your paint cans to ensure the pigment is evenly distributed. “When pigment is added to a can of paint, it is typically shaken at the paint store,” Schaeffer says.  But in the event it hasn’t been, or if the paint has been sitting for a while, he advises shaking and/or stirring it. “However, not all products should be shaken before use. For example, polyurethane will introduce air bubbles and, for clear products, that is not ideal.”

Temperature should play a role in your painting planning. Image courtesy of Sherwin-Williams.

#7: There’s a right time to paint

There are ideal times to paint and times when it would be best if you didn’t paint. “Apply only when paint, surface and air temperatures are 50–90 degrees F (10–32 degrees C) during application and drying time,” according to Eichelberger.

For interior paint jobs, Mike Mundwiller, Benjamin Moore Field Integration Manager, says the environment is generally controlled (meaning you don’t need to worry too much about temp), but for exterior paint projects, he offers the following advice:

• Ideal painting conditions are 77 degrees F and 50 percent relative humidity.
• Do not paint in direct sunlight.
• In early spring and late fall, do not start too early in the morning or work too late in the day.
• High winds can cause the paint to dry too fast and cause lap marks.

Take it from the top. Image courtesy of Sherwin-Williams.

#8: You need a painting plan

Whether you’re using bold or neutral colors, paint the ceiling before you paint the walls — and work on one wall at a time, advises Eichelberger. “After painting the ceiling, start by edging around the ceiling, corners and trim with an angled brush. Then, immediately roll the inside of the wall before going to the next wall.” If you paint one wall at a time, he says the paint will blend much better and reduce the chance of streaking or lap marks.

When you’re painting with a roller, Eichelberger recommends applying from the dry area into the wet area using firm, crisscrossed strokes. “Finish with long, even strokes in one direction for a smooth, uniform paint finish.”

Your paint roller is your ally. Image courtesy of Benjamin Moore.

However, don’t overwork the paint, since most premium paints today flow on very easily, according to Mundwiller. “When rolling, let the roller do the work,” he says. “There is no reason to put a lot of pressure on the roller. Lay on a nice even coat and move on.”

Set yourself up for success by investing in the right tools. Image courtesy of Benjamin Moore.

#9: Don’t skimp on tools

While your technique is important, your tools can also determine the quality of your paint job. Eichelberger recommends using premium-quality rollers and premium-quality nylon/polyester brushes.

Mundwiller agrees. “Tools often make the difference between an easy job that looks great and a beastly job that doesn’t look so good when it’s finished.” He warns against scrimping on tools. “Use the recommended roller or brush for the paint you are using — it makes a huge difference.” And if you’re using a sprayer, Mundwiller recommends practicing in an inconspicuous area before tackling the main job.

Keep as much air out of your paint as possible. Image courtesy of Sherwin-Williams.

#10: Keep your paint and tools fresh

When you need to take a break from painting, don’t leave your paint and tools exposed. “Make sure to cover your paint by placing the lid back onto the container,” Eichelberger says. “Also, place aluminum foil over your handheld paint container, roller tray and your applicators.” If you don’t, he says the paint can dry and form a film on top, which makes it harder to apply the paint evenly.

Simple kitchen finds — like aluminum foil and plastic wrap — can help you keep your paint fresh. Image courtesy of Benjamin Moore.

And Mundwiller goes a step further. “If you take a break, wrap your brush and roller (handle and all) in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator, since this will keep the brush fresh for when you’re ready to paint again.”

The post The 10 Commandments of Painting appeared first on Freshome.com.

We like to say Dyson is like the Apple of home gadgets. They’ve managed to take some of the most ordinary household products (like a vacuum or a blow dryer) to the next level. Sleek design, simplicity and innovative technology make everyday tasks like cleaning a little more interesting. Who would have thought a vacuum or fan could be… sexy?

This year is special for Dyson as Sir James Dyson, the soft-spoken, grey-haired guy in the commercials, hands the reigns of his company to his son, Jake. Jake is now the company’s Chief Engineer and he’s got some fresh ideas.

Here are four new Dyson products available now that are, as always, revolutionizing the home:

1. Lightcycle, $600 – $900

The Lightcycle lamp’s bulb is set to last 60 years. All images courtesy of Dyson.

The Lightcycle is a color-temperature-adjusting task light that adapts its brightness according to the ambient daylight. Jake Dyson’s thinking behind a light that adapts to its surroundings is that it could reduce eye strain and help our bodies transition throughout the day. He explains, “Our bodies can be influenced by daylight’s changing spectrum of color and brightness. So our new light adjusts with the daylight where you live.”

A Dyson Link smartphone app allows you to schedule different modes and set your wake and sleep times. Then, the lamp’s brightness will gradually adjust to help you sleep or wake up. A USB-C port on the side of the lamp is there for charging your phone or other devices. And Dyson claims the bulb will last 60 years, so it looks like you won’t be needing any new lamps or bulbs any time soon.

Lightcycle is available as a desk or floor version in silver or black.

2. Pure Cool Me, $350

The dome can be adjusted to direct airflow where you need it.

This is both a fan and air purifier. Dyson calls it a personal purifying fan. To cool off, you can adjust the dome position to get a purified stream of cool air to wash over you. The quiet yet powerful fan and sealed HEPA filter ensure you’ll breathe pure, allergen-free air. As with all Dyson products, the design is very different and works very well. The machine can rotate from side to side and you can set it to run as long as you’d like.

3. Supersonic Hair Dryer 23.75 Karat Gold, $500

The combination of Yves Klein blue and real gold is only available for a limited time.

The hairdryer isn’t all-new, but the stunning color combo is a limited edition release for this year. You’ll be seeing a lot of this blue tone, named Yves Klein blue. Paired with actual 24-karat gold, this hairdryer looks like it belongs in a museum more than on your bathroom counter.

What makes this blow dryer so revolutionary? The motor spins six times faster than other blow dryers, but it’s only a third of the weight and half the size you’d expect.

4. V11 Torque Drive Vacuum, $700

The new V11 Torque Drive Vacuum may be understated, but it’s powerful.

The vacuum made Dyson famous and they aren’t resting on their laurels anytime soon. Their latest is lightweight (less than 7 lbs.), cordless and features an LCD screen control panel that counts down the vacuum’s battery life. You’ve got 60 minutes of vacuuming time on one charge, if you’re curious.

There are very helpful troubleshooting videos that can be played on the screen to help you figure out why your Dyson may be acting funny. This smart vacuum also adjusts automatically to carpet or wood floors, thanks to the Dynamic Load Sensor.

The post Here are 4 New Dyson Products Revolutionizing Homes this Year appeared first on Freshome.com.

Now that summer weather is here, it’s time to start thinking about lawn maintenance. This is especially true when it comes to keeping weeds at bay. With that in mind, we’ve laid out all the weed prevention tips that you need to know. Take the time to read them over so that you’re ready to keep your lawn in tip-top shape this summer.

Herbicide products are more effective if you use them to treat your lawn before the weeds appear. Image: Banprik/Shutterstock

Treat weeds before they happen

The best way to save your garden from being overrun by weeds is to take care of them before they even have a chance to take root. Preemergent herbicides are one way to do this. As the name suggests, these remedies are meant to treat weeds that have not yet emerged from the soil. For those wondering, both commercial and natural varieties — like corn gluten — are available.

If you’re buying commercial, which herbicide you should purchase depends largely on what type of weed appears most frequently in your lawn. You’ll want to be sure to read labels carefully throughout the entire process. Each preemergent must be mixed to the manufacturer’s instructions, then distributed at a specific rate throughout your target area. All preemergents are activated by water, so make sure to give the area a good soak after you’ve finished the application.

Each type of weed requires a different prevention tactic. Image: effective stock photos/Shutterstock

Know what type of weed you’re facing

Believe it or not, not all weeds are created equal. There are actually three distinct subtypes of weeds and each has its own ideal prevention strategy. The types are as follows:

• Grassy weeds: These weeds may look similar to the grass on your lawn. In fact, they’re even considered grasses. Examples include crabgrass, goosegrass and barnyard grass. The way to attack these weeds is to keep your grass longer and to water it deeply. Longer grass shades the soil, helping to prevent the weed seeds from germinating, while longer, infrequent waterings help encourage strong root growth for your grass.
• Sedge weeds: Sedge weeds look a lot like grassy weeds, but they have unjointed stems and are most often found in marshes and bogs. It’s important to note the difference because herbicides geared towards grassy weeds will not work on these varieties. Some common types of sedge weeds are yellow and purple nutsedge, wild onion or garlic and Star of Bethlehem.
• Broadleaf weeds: Broadleaf weeds are the most common weed variety found in gardens. Their leaves are wide and flat with net-like veins. This type of weed includes dandelions, ground ivy, white clover and violets.

If you want to learn more about the right weed-prevention strategy for your lawn, you can contact a lawn care professional for expert advice.

Aim to create an environment where it’s hard for weeds to grow. Image: Ozgur Coskun/Shutterstock

Create unfavorable weed conditions

Just like other plant varieties, weeds need favorable conditions in order to grow. When you’re trying to keep weeds to a minimum, your goal should be to create the opposite: a lawn and garden environment that makes it difficult for them to flourish. The harder it is for weeds to grow, the less likely it is for them to be able to spread their seeds and begin to take over your lawn.

As far as creating an unfavorable environment, there are multiple steps you can take. However, properly mulching is one of the best. Start by placing a layer of newspaper or fabric on top of the soil to block out any light. Then, add about two inches of mulch over the top before putting in your plantings. You’ll also want to make sure to plant items close together so that there’s less room for weeds to grow in between them.

The weather will play a role in how to best handle weeds. Image: effective stock photos/Shutterstock

Weed at the right time

There’s an old saying: “Pull wet, hoe dry.” It’s good advice to keep in mind when looking for the best time to weed. Conventional wisdom states that the best time to pull weeds out by the root is right after a rainstorm. However, if you’re going to weed when it’s dry, the better bet is to use a hoe with a sharp edge to slice the weed just below the soil line.

In situations where the weed cannot be easily removed — such as in a tightly-packed flower bed —  aim to lop off its head. Simply use a pair of pruning shears to do the job. This forces the weeds to use up their food supply and reduces their root buds, which minimizes their ability to spread.

Not sure you’re up to tackle your lawn’s weeds alone? Contact a lawn care expert to find out what professional services you can add to your lawn care routine.

The post Everything You Need to Know About Keeping Weeds at Bay this Summer appeared first on Freshome.com.