Books Cozy Reading Nook Ideas That Make You Never Want to Leave Your Book 3:06 PM If you’re dreaming of a space that invites you to curl up with a good book, I’ve got you covered. From bedroom reading areas to small space reading corners, here’s how to craft a book lover’s dream mini library that’s uniquely yours. Get inspired by these cozy reading nook ideas and practical tips to enhance your reading experience. Browse by Topic ▼ What is a reading nook?A well-designed book nook is your personal sanctuary for literary escapes. A dedicated spot at home that whispers, “Come, sit, lose yourself in a story.” Whether it’s a corner reading area with a plush chair or a window reading nook bathed in natural light, it’s a portal to other worlds where you never want to leave. Why Create a Reading Nook?How often do we actually make time for reading in our busy lives? Having a designated reading space serves as a visual reminder to slow down and savor the simple pleasure of a good book. Encourages relaxation – A cozy reading nook signals a moment to slow down and unwind amid a busy schedule. Strengthens reading habits – Having a dedicated space makes reading feel intentional, turning it into a cherished routine. Enhances the experience – Thoughtful setup and decor can make reading more immersive and enjoyable. Fits any space – Whether in a small apartment or a spacious home, a well-designed nook transforms any corner into a personal retreat. Adds warmth to your home – With the right decor, it becomes the coziest spot, inviting you to curl up with a good book.5 Best Spots for Your Reading NookThe beauty of a reading nook lies in its versatility. It can fit almost anywhere! Here are some top locations to inspire your reading nook ideas:1. Window Reading Nook Ideas For natural light lovers, a bay or a small window reading nook is a dream come true. Imagine curling up with a novel while gazing at a garden, city skyline, or serene mountain view. A window reading nook combines the joy of reading with the calming effect of nature or urban vistas, making it a top choice for cozy reading nook ideas.Recreate this look with:Utopia Bedding Throw Pillows InsertFaux Succulents in PotsWicker Storage Baskets2. Corner Cozy Reading NookGot an unused corner in your living room or bedroom? Transform it into a corner reading nook. This space-saving option is ideal for small reading nook ideas, perfect for apartments or compact homes. Add a reading nook corner chair and a few cozy pillows to make it inviting.Recreate this look with:Throw Blanket for Couch BedUpholstered Chaise Lounge3. Cozy Bedroom Reading NookYour bedroom is already a personal retreat, so why not enhance it with your book corner? A cozy reading nook in a bedroom creates a seamless transition between daily activities and restful sleep, ideal for bedtime reading. Find compact furniture and clever storage solutions to keep your sleep sanctuary clutter-free.Recreate this look with:Custom Size Bench CushionStylish Blackout CurtainWindow Sill Seat Cushion4. Outdoor Reading NookFor nature enthusiasts, an outdoor reading nook on a porch, balcony, or garden offers a refreshing escape. Use weather-resistant cushions, a small side table for your tea, and cozy reading nook decor to create a serene book nook that feels like a mini-vacation. This is also an excellent idea for kids to encourage them to explore the outdoors (even if it’s just in your backyard).Recreate this look with:Custom Door SignsFloating Nursery Book ShelvesWhite Area Rugs5. Under Stairs Reading NookMaximize unused space with an under-stairs reading nook. This clever idea transforms an awkward area into a cozy book nook, perfect for compact spaces. Add built-in shelves and a comfy reading nook bench for a functional and stylish retreat.Recreate this look with:Classic Manual TypewriterBoho Throw Pillow Decorative CoversAngel FigurineEssential Elements for the Perfect Reading NookTo create a cozy reading nook that’s both functional and inviting, focus on these key elements: Comfortable Reading Nook SeatingSeating is the heart of your reading nook design. Choose options that suit your style and space:Armchairs: Ideal for long reading sessions, offering comfort and support. Reading nook bench: Perfect for window reading nook ideas, often with built-in storage. Floor cushions: Budget-friendly, movable, and great for small reading spaces. Hanging chairs: Add whimsy and gentle movement with a hammock or swing chairs.Reading Nook Lighting IdeasLighting sets the mood in your reading corner and keeps the reading party going long after the sun sets.Natural light: Ideal for daytime reading.Unique table lamps: Provide adjustable task lighting for evening sessions. String lights: Create a magical ambiance for cozy reading nook decor. Floor lamps: Add character and illumination to modern reading nook ideas. Cozy Reading Nook AccessoriesMust-haves in creating a cozy reading nook:Plush pillows in various sizes for support. Soft, weighted blankets for warmth. A small side table for snacks, drinks, or your reading journal. Bookends or mini shelves to keep your current reads organized.Things that are uniquely ‘you’. For example, if you love music, consider adding your favorite vinyl records, speakers, or concert memorabilia on the shelves.Create a custom photo collage of memorable reading moments, favorite authors, or book-inspired artwork using a collage maker to display on the wall or side table, making your nook feel more personal and inspiring.Themed Reading Nook IdeasPersonalize your reading nook with a theme that reflects your style: Reading Nook Ideas for Small SpacesLimited space? These small reading nook ideas maximize every inch: Use tall, narrow bookshelves to save floor space. Choose foldable reading nook furniture that tucks away when not in use. Install floating shelves above your tiny reading nook for books and decor. Opt for a narrow reading nook with a slim chair or bench for tight corners.Creating the Perfect Cozy Reading Nook AestheticTurn your reading nook into a sensory haven. Add cozy reading nook wallpaper or an accent wall for visual interest. Include plants for a touch of nature and better air quality. Use a small fountain or sound machine for soothing background noise. Display wall art for a reading nook or inspiring literary quotes.Finishing TouchesMake it uniquely yours with: A Funko Pop of your favorite literary character.A reading journal and pen for jotting down thoughts. A collection of bookmarks for a distinctive flair. A playful “Do Not Disturb Reading Zone” sign.Thinking about a custom design for your nook accessories? You can create logo elements to make them stand out. Key TakeawayThat forgotten space in your home has serious potential to become your ideal reading nook. With the proper seating, lighting, and a few signature style, you’ll have a retreat that makes reading feel like a love story rather than a task. The best reading nooks aren’t complicated. They’re just thoughtfully designed for comfort and focus. Start small, add what feels right, and watch how a dedicated reading space transforms your daily routine. Where’s your favorite spot to get lost in a book? Which of these designs is your favorite?Header Image © Internet Marketing Ad. No commercial reuse.Want to license or commission something similar? Let me know in the comments!This post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost. Thank you!
Home From Chaos to Calm: Transforming Your Living Space into a Sanctuary 7:06 PM Transforming Your Living Space into a Sanctuary Life can get pretty hectic, and it’s easy to forget just how vital a calm, clutter-free home is in the middle of all the chaos. Your space should be more than just a place to crash at the end of the day—it should be your sanctuary, a cozy retreat where you can relax and recharge. The good news? Creating that peaceful haven isn’t as overwhelming as it might seem. In this article, we’ll explore simple, practical ways to turn your home into a soothing escape from the outside world.De-Clutter and OrganizeOne primary step to transforming your living space involves decluttering and organizing your belongings. Unnecessary items often clutter our homes, making environments feel tighter and more stressful. For comprehensive home cleaning, it's essential to look beyond the visible, like our living rooms, into less obvious areas, such as attics and basements. In extreme cases, consider services like pest control in Riverside CA, or other services local to your areas to ensure that your home is clutter-free and pest-free. Living in a clean, organized space has immense positive impacts on our mental well-being and overall quality of life.Design and Color Theme Every home needs its unique personality, akin to those who dwell in it. Simple design tweaks can create relaxing, Zen-like atmospheres for your sanctuary. Consider calming hues such as light blues, greens, or neutrals. Colors are crucial in setting the ambiance; cool and neutral tones typically invoke a feeling of serenity and tranquillity. Adding natural elements like plants can also heighten the relaxing effect.Sensory Stimulation A transformed living space should stimulate all your senses favorably. Play with lighting to create various moods throughout your day. For instance:Softer evening lighting options can induce relaxation and help with winding down. Introducing pleasant scents through diffusers or scented candles can also greatly enhance your living space's atmosphere. Engage our auditory senses by leveraging soft music or sounds of nature, which can provide a calming auditory backdrop.A Personal TouchMake your home your personal retreat by incorporating elements that resonate with you individually. This could include artwork, family portraits, or items that bring back fond memories. Your home must represent who you are and what you find comforting!Optimized FunctionalityIn line with decluttering and organizing, optimizing your space for functionality can significantly contribute to turning your residence into a sanctuary. This involves strategically arranging your furniture to ensure smooth movement. In addition, creating specific zones for various activities like reading, working, or relaxing can ensure each area in your house holds a particular purpose, adding to the overall organization and relaxation effect.Embrace MinimalismFinally, the essence of a calm living space often lies in its simplicity. Embrace the concept of minimalism, where less is more. A minimalist approach to your home decor ensures a spacious and clutter-free environment, which invariably fosters serenity.Transform Your Living Space into a SanctuaryTransforming your living space into your personal sanctuary doesn't require extravagant renovations or a wholesale change in aesthetics. It begins with creating a clean, well-organized environment, evoking calm through careful color and design selection, stimulating your senses positively, adding personal elements, optimizing for functionality, and embracing minimalism. The journey from chaos to calm is a rewarding endeavor that promises an oasis of peace and tranquility in the comfort of your own home. So, welcome home to your very own sanctuary!Header image: AI-generated by Internet Marketing Ad
Home 13 Simple Steps to Kickstart a Zero Waste Lifestyle at Home 2:55 AM 13 Simple Steps to Kickstart A Zero Waste Lifestyle at Home Ever thought about how much waste we generate as a society and the role we play? The statistics are shocking yet thought-provoking: only 9% of global plastic waste has ever been recycled. So, if you've been asking how we can make zero waste at home or how a zero-waste lifestyle can save you money, you're about to get your answers in this easy-to-follow guide. What is Zero Waste Lifestyle? The zero-waste lifestyle is more than just a buzzword. It's a commitment to living in a way that produces as little waste as possible. It's about finding ways to reduce waste, reuse items, and recycle what we can't reuse. But it's not only eco-friendly—it's economical too. You'd be surprised how a zero-waste lifestyle can save you money and contribute to your personal development. So, how can you have a zero-waste lifestyle with minimum effort? Here are 13 zero-waste lifestyle tips that can jumpstart your journey.13 Simple Steps to Kickstart a Zero Waste Lifestyle at Home1. Make simple but deliberate sustainable lifestyle choices.Like any other lifestyle change, it's best to start small. Begin by identifying easy waste to reduce in your daily routine. It could be the plastic water bottle you buy daily or the disposable coffee cups you use. If you're cooking with veggies, instead of throwing the peels away, use them as compost or veggie broth. Remember, every little bit counts. 2. Bring your own bags.Plastic bags contribute significantly to waste. A simple switch to reusable bags can drastically reduce this. Reusable bags aren't just for groceries—they're also great for all shopping.3. Switch to reusable water bottles and coffee cups.Consider investing in a good-quality water bottle and coffee cup. You'll reduce waste and save money in the long run. For example, Super Sparrow is a certified Climate Pledge-friendly insulated water bottle with a beautiful design. It's great for when you travel or work out. 4. Buy in bulk.Buying in bulk can significantly reduce packaging waste. Choose stores that offer bulk goods, and remember to bring your reusable containers.5. Switch to loose-leaf tea.Did you know some tea bags contain plastic? Make a more sustainable choice by opting for loose-leaf tea. Or choose tea brands that use plastic-free and compostable materials, such as:Art of TeaLoose Leaf MarketNumi TeaTiesta Tea6. Consider using menstrual cups.Ladies, it's time to consider menstrual cups. They're not only reusable but also a healthier alternative to disposable products.7. Make your own cleaning products.It is common for cleaning products to be contained in plastic packaging that may contain harmful chemicals. Making your own can be cheaper, healthier, and less wasteful. Here are three DIY cleaning products that are sustainable and easy to make at home with simple ingredients. All-Purpose CleanerIngredients:1 cup of white vinegar1 cup of waterLemon rindRosemary sprigsInstructions: Combine the vinegar, water, and enough lemon rind and rosemary sprigs to create a pleasant scent in a spray bottle. Let the solution infuse for a week before using it. Shake the bottle before each use. You can use it on almost any surface but avoid using it on granite and marble, as vinegar can etch these surfaces.Glass CleanerIngredients:2 cups of water1/4 cup of white vinegar1/2 teaspoon of dish soapInstructions: Mix the ingredients together in a spray bottle. Shake the solution vigorously to ensure all ingredients are well mixed for optimal results. Next, apply the solution evenly onto glass surfaces and use a dry cloth or newspaper to wipe away the solution and achieve a flawless, streak-free shine.Grease CleanerIngredients:2 cups of hot water1 tablespoon of baking soda20 drops of lemon essential oilInstructions: Combine the hot water and baking soda, then add the lemon oil. Mix well until the baking soda dissolves, then transfer the mixture to a spray bottle. Spray the solution on greasy surfaces, leave it on for a few minutes, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.Each of these DIY cleaning products is not only effective but also contributes to a zero-waste lifestyle. They're made from natural ingredients, which are better for the environment and your health. Plus, by using reusable spray bottles, you're helping to reduce plastic waste. So, you're not only keeping your home clean but also doing your part for the environment. 8. Go digital.Opt for digital versions of everything, from books to bills, whenever possible. It's one of the simplest ways to adopt a zero-waste lifestyle. Paying for your bills online is more convenient and quicker. I shifted to Kindle Paperwhite (thanks to my amazing and thoughtful husband!), and I've read 90 books this year. That's a significant difference from the 45 books I read last year. So, I've been shopping less, reading more, and helping the environment simultaneously. It's a win-win! 9. Say "no" to unnecessary packaging.Whether ordering takeout or buying groceries, it's not for you if it's wrapped in too much plastic. It's surprising how many products are over-packaged, resulting in unnecessary waste. Here are four examples:Individually Wrapped Items: Whether it's fruit, vegetables, or baked goods, individually wrapped items constitute a significant source of unnecessary packaging. For instance, a single banana or potato wrapped in a plastic film contributes to plastic waste and seems redundant since these items come with their own natural packaging.Multi-Layered Packaging: Many products come with multiple layers of packaging. For instance, a cereal box might come in a plastic bag, inside a cardboard box, wrapped in plastic again. The inner plastic bag and outer plastic wrap are usually unnecessary.Single-Serve Packages: While single-serve packages of snacks, drinks, or meals might be convenient, they contribute significantly to waste. For example, a bag of single-serve chips has much more packaging waste than a giant bag of the same product.Over-Packaged Online Deliveries: With the rise of e-commerce, the over-packaging of online orders has become quite common. Often, small items are shipped in large boxes filled with plastic air pillows or bubble wrap, which is excessive and wasteful.10. Repair, don't replace.Next time something breaks, try to repair it before replacing it. It can save you money and reduce waste. For example, before you discard that shirt with a missing button or those pants with a small tear, consider mending them. Basic sewing skills can save you a lot of money over time and reduce waste. You can even re-style older clothes to give them a fresh look.11. Compost.Food waste is a significant contributor to household waste. Composting is an eco-friendly way to utilize this waste, and it's great for your plants. Here's a quick and easy way to compost kitchen scraps from the Washington Department of Ecology.12. Shop secondhand.Secondhand items are often just as good as new ones. Plus, they come without all the excessive packaging and cost less.13. Educate yourself and others.The more you know about the benefits of a zero-waste lifestyle, the easier it is to stick with it. Share your knowledge with others to help them understand why it's crucial. Why is a Zero Waste Lifestyle Important? 5 BenefitsZero waste living is not only about reducing waste—it's about contributing to a more sustainable future. With the zero-waste packaging market expected to grow at a CAGR of 13.2% from 2021 to 2026, more businesses are recognizing the trend and acknowledging the need for change. But why is it so crucial that we all embrace this concept? Here are five benefits of a zero-waste lifestyle: Environmental Impact A zero-waste lifestyle is vital for our planet. The vast amount of waste we generate is wreaking havoc on our environment. Overfilled landfills leak harmful chemicals into our soil and waterways, while garbage in our oceans threatens marine life. By committing to reducing waste, we can directly combat these environmental threats. Resource Conservation A lot of resources go into making the products we use every day. When we throw away things, we also throw away the elements and energy used to make them. By embracing zero waste, we make more sustainable use of these resources. Financial Benefits Embracing a zero-waste lifestyle can be a boon for your wallet, too. Consider buying less, repairing more, and reducing consumption, which can lead to significant savings. Also, many steps you can take to adopt a zero-waste lifestyle, such as buying in bulk or reusing items, often lead to cost savings over time. Promotes Creativity and Mindfulness Living a zero-waste lifestyle encourages creativity and mindfulness. You become more aware of your consumption habits and learn to find innovative ways to reduce waste. It prompts you to ask before each purchase, "Do I really need this?" Mindful consumption can enrich your life unexpectedly, helping you appreciate what you have and reduce clutter. Before throwing anything away or replacing it, you can let your imagination go wild about how to repurpose or reuse it. Here are 32 creative ways you can recycle plastic from 5-Minute Crafts PLAY.Community Building When we engage in zero-waste living, we often connect with like-minded individuals, creating a community of people striving to make a difference. This can lead to increased social interaction and a sense of belonging, both of which are beneficial for our mental health. How to Lead a Zero-Waste Lifestyle at Home How to live a zero-waste lifestyle? It's easier than you think. Beyond reducing waste, it's about contributing to a healthier planet, conserving resources, saving money, fostering creativity, and building a better community. So, if you've been contemplating how to practice a zero-waste lifestyle, the answer lies in these 13 simple steps. I'm sure you can find more, but these are great ways to start! How do you practice a zero-waste lifestyle?
Home 4 Easy Steps to Create an Inviting Poolside Patio 3:25 PM 4 Easy Steps To Create An Inviting Poolside Patio A pool deck could turn into your home's favorite spot if you incorporate it with designs that make it irresistible. This could mean spending more time outdoors, especially during summer. With these four easy steps, you can create a comfortable and inviting poolside patio for you and your loved ones.1. Add colors to your poolside patio.There is something delightful about adding color to your pool.It is one of the best poolside patio ideas to make the surroundings inviting and the entire area brighter. You can use different colors to highlight specific aspects of your pool for safety purposes. For instance, use a different color to indicate spaces that need to be avoided by people who are not skilled swimmers. Choose colors that accentuate your pool and the poolside. Work with landscaping and pool experts. They will advise you on which colors will work based on your theme. You could transform your little poolside patio into a Caribbean paradise with color highlights and colorful flowers. 2. Add water features and mood lighting.A water fountain draws you instantly. The same will happen to your poolside if you incorporate water features. An easy feature to add to your home pool is dancing waters. This can produce a calming effect that anyone would enjoy. For added comfort, you can include an RIO Beach Backpack Multi-Position Lounge Chair by the poolside for the perfect ambiance. Together with the calming pool effect, this colorful chair will enhance your relaxation. This chair is comfortable and perfectly fits into any tastefully decorated poolside patio. Include some pool lights to help set the mood.3. Add unique patio touches.Patio pavements with a unique pattern can add a bit of a decorative element. Use materials that differentiate the patio area from the rest of the house. A good example would be gravel or granite. Spruce up the backyard by using elements of arched gates or entrances for a medieval look, or consider using colored posts for an elevated but elegant look. Such small details will give your poolside an unmatched resort-like feel. 4. Size matters - the bigger, the better.An oversized poolside patio is better and more inviting because you can play around with different themes or mix several in one. You can add an outdoor poolside dining arrangement. Create a relaxed area with poolside patio furniture like beach lounge seats. There should be enough intimate areas for family and friends to hold private conversations on a spacious deck with poolside patio chairs.Ample space allows you to play around with different functional ideas. It also gives room for maximum creativity and gives you the most out of your poolside patio. If possible, try to size the deck to fit your needs and make your poolside more inviting.Now youHave you tried revamping your poolside patio to make it more inviting? What elements have you added?
Home 3 Common Mistakes To Avoid When Cooling Your Home For Summer 6:59 AM 3 Common Mistakes To Avoid When Cooling Your Home For Summer Running your air conditioning unit continuously can help cool your home and turn it into a summer oasis, but it can also drain your finances significantly. By taking a few simple measures and avoiding common blunders, you can significantly reduce AC usage while keeping your home comfortable all summer long.So, if you're looking to keep your home cool without breaking the bank, avoid these three common mistakes when cooling your home for summer—and check out some smart solutions!1. Not putting ceiling fans to good use.Dependable ceiling fans are among the most effective cooling aids you should have on hand. If your home needs high-quality fans, there’s no time like the present to buy and install some. Some people consider ceiling fans to be ineffective alternatives to air conditioning. But the right ceiling fans can be a huge help for your summer cooling efforts, as long as they’re used properly. Ceiling fans can work with your mini split AC or central air conditioning system by distributing the cool air it produces to every area of your home.Solution:By adjusting the fans’ blades to turn counterclockwise, they can produce a downward-flowing cooling breeze.Ceiling fans are available in a wide range of styles and sizes. If you’re looking to purchase a fan for an area with limited ceiling space, a good flush-mount ceiling fan should be just right for you.2. Using your oven while the sun is out.Ovens can generate a fair amount of heat, so much, in fact, that any room adjacent to the oven will likely feel its residual heat. While this can be somewhat convenient throughout the winter, it’s nothing short of uncomfortable during the sweaty summer months. Solution:Limit oven use over the summer, especially during daylight hours. If you can’t help it, at least wait until the sun has gone down before using the oven.Explore oven-free or no-bake recipes. If you enjoy backyard barbecues, there’s no better time of year to clean the old grill thoroughly and cook some burgers outdoors. By the time fall rolls around and you’ve expanded your culinary repertoire, you may actually be grateful to have been pulled out of your comfort zone.3. Keeping curtains and blinds open during the sun’s peak hoursAlthough sunlight can add natural lighting to your home, it can also contribute to excessively warm indoor temperatures, especially during the summer. Minimize the amount of direct sunlight entering your home during daylight hours. Solution:Close your curtains and/or blinds when the sun is out.Invest in thermal curtains or blackout curtains. These specialized window dressings are composed of thick thermal materials that help keep indoor sunlight to a minimum. Thermal curtains can also help prevent cool air from your AC from escaping and hot air from outdoors from entering. Additionally, quality window treatments with privacy and light control features offer the dual benefit of maintaining your home's privacy while regulating temperature, making them a practical investment for year-round comfort.During the winter months, these curtains help keep warm air in and cool air out.Keep Your Home Sustainably Cool This SummerCooling an entire house throughout the summer months is no picnic – just ask any homeowner.Depending on the size of your home and the area, running your AC all summer long can significantly deplete your finances. Luckily, there are several easy steps you can take to cool your humble abode more efficiently and cost-effectively. Avoid the three common mistakes above to enjoy a consistently cool home this summer without spending a fortune.
For Moms 5 Reasons To Splurge On High-End Appliances 2:36 AM 5 Reasons To Splurge On High-End Appliances When you buy appliances for your home, you often have to dip into savings. It can be tempting to buy the cheapest fridge or dishwasher in the market. But there are good reasons why you should splurge on high-end appliances. Here are 5 of them.1. Longer lasting and easier to fix.High-end appliances tend to last longer than their cheap counterparts. It's because high-end brands spend more time and money researching, testing, and making their products.There's still a chance that high-end appliances will break. But fixing them is cheaper. A cheap fridge might need replacing when it breaks. But for a high-quality fridge, like a Frigidaire fridge, you can find parts to fix your high end fridge easily. Giphy2. They have all the features you need and want.Need a dishwasher with a self-cleaning filter?Or a stove with built-in ventilation?Do you wish you could preheat your oven so it’s ready to use when you come home? You could connect a smart oven to your WiFi so you could turn it on remotely.The features you need and want are there when you splurge on top-quality appliances. High-end appliances come with features you didn’t think you needed...but you'll soon realize that you can’t live without them. Giphy3. High-end appliances are cheaper in the long-run.Your $900 fridge lasts three years. But a $2000 fridge could last ten.If you think about it, you’re actually saving money by spending more upfront.The cheap fridge costs $300 per year. But you're only paying $200 per year for the high-end fridge.High-end appliances are more energy-efficient. Meaning you’ll save on your bills. Some older models are huge energy wasters. Maybe it's time to upgrade? Giphy4. High-end appliances look great.We all want our home decor to be inviting and stylish. A cheap microwave could stick out like a sore thumb in your pristine modern kitchen. High-end appliances often have a sleeker look. Want a pink fridge or a matching toaster and kettle set? You can find quirky and colourful appliances if you like. Many high-end appliances can be built into or integrated into your home. A fridge can be subtly tucked away behind a door. A dishwasher can be perfectly slotted under your kitchen counters.They'll look better than bulky standalone appliances.Ikea Blogger5. You deserve to splurge on high-end appliances.If the cost-effective, stylish, features-driven, and long-lasting qualities of high-end appliances still haven’t convinced you to invest...Remember: you deserve a high-end appliance!You’ll be amazed by how much splurging on appliances that you use every day could transform your life. It'll make your life easier and better!GiphyNot all high-end appliances are made equal. But there's a reason why they are worth it. This doesn’t mean that you should buy the most expensive stove or dishwasher next time. Do your due diligence. Research and compare.Splurge on high-end appliances but make sure you choose efficiency, lifespan, and essential features over everything else.What's the most expensive appliance you've ever bought? 😀
Home 5 Steps to Keep Plant-Eating Animals Out of Your Garden 10:51 PM Maintaining a garden is one of the most soul-satisfying things a person can do. It connects us with nature. It surrounds us with negative ions that can help relieve our stress. Gardening can give us a sense of accomplishment knowing that we're feeding our family with organic, home-grown goodness.But some four-legged friends would sometimes visit and harvest what we've planted.How do you keep these plant-eating animals out of your garden without harming them? Here are 5 easy steps:1. Use vinegar in your garden.Does vinegar keep animals away?Vinegar is one versatile product you should always keep in your home.Because of its strong smell, vinegar is repulsive to plant-eating animals and keeps them out.Soak old clothes with vinegar and put them around your garden.Vinegar can also help repel caterpillars, bugs, and aphids.Another bonus of using vinegar in the garden is that it increases soil acidity. The acetic acid in the vinegar helps fight lime and kills weeds.2. The scare tacticScare the critters off by using the old but gold scarecrow. Move the scarecrow every couple of days or so.Some gardeners would turn on the sprinkler when the plant-eating animals come. The sudden sound of the water will surprise them and make them run away.You can also train your dog to bark and scare off your unwanted garden guests. 3. Surround your garden with their least favorite.Grow these in your garden. These are plants that can help keep plant-eating animals away:lavendermintrosemarychivesoreganodillcatnipgarlic thymeonionsage4. Use covered bins to keep plant-eating animals out of your garden.Put a lid securely on your compost bin and trash cans so that you don't attract raccoons, deer, foxes, and opossums. The smell of your trash may have led them to your garden in the first place. 5. Deer Fence: The Best Defense When deer and other wildlife cannot access your garden, they will go searching for food in fields, meadows, and high grasses. Installing a deer fence is a surefire way to keep out animals that don’t belong in your garden. Durable, and environmentally safe, the right deer fencing will keep out animals that wish to create mischief, by consuming your plants and seedlings. Deer fencing won’t cause woodland creatures any harm but instead will divert them elsewhere.Choose a six-foot, or even an eight-foot-high fence, or pairs of low parallel fences. This will cause the deer to think twice about scaling them, even if they are being chased, or threatened.The Worst Garden OffendersYou may be wondering, "What animal is eating my plants"? Here are 7 common animals that may be destroying your garden:Deer - You may find deer grazing in your garden at dusk and at dawn. Because winters are hard on them, they seek out and focus only on the most nutritious garden plants. They're hard to catch as they are nearly inaudible except for occasional grunts and mews. If you don't catch them, be on the lookout for deer droppings, and cloven-shaped hoof prints.Rabbits - Adorable rabbits can wreak havoc in your garden. They will eat almost anything and can cause extensive damage if security is not in place.Raccoons and Skunks - Although sometimes happily satiated by feasting on garbage cans, raccoons and skunks will also dig through your garden, looking for insects, and grubs. They will also dig holes to make their dens.Squirrels - Both ground and tree squirrels pose a threat to your garden. Their typical MO is to create holes that are used either for their burrows or to store and bury nuts for winter.Prairie Dogs - While indeed prairie dogs are capable of inflicting great damage to crops in a garden, they are helpful to the ecosystem. Their method of burrowing helps till the soil, thereby adding nutrients. If possible, finding a professional to trap, and relocate these critters, is the most environmentally beneficial and kinder way of managing them.Chipmunks - The famous of them all, chipmunks feed mainly on insects, seeds, grains, and nuts, but have no problem-consuming seedlings and flower bulbs.Field Mice - Ingenious little creatures, field mice will do just about anything to get to a tasty morsel of food. They will disrupt plant roots, and snack on leaves, pull up roots, and gnaw at them from underneath the soil. We must not hurt or harm the animals who only act by instinct and for survival.But, that doesn’t mean that we have to share all our harvest with these plant-eating creatures.With the right tools, planning, and defenses, such as deer fencing, we can happily enjoy the bounty of our gardens by keeping our plant-eating animal friends out without harming them.
