How to do the laundry better, according to a TikTok cleaning queen

Ann Russell draws on nearly 20 years of cleaning experience to deliver no-nonsense housekeeping tips on TikTok. We asked her 10 burning questions about laundry.

* This article was originally published here

6 essential tasks for a stripped-down spring cleaning

Don’t have time to clean the whole house? At least do these things.

* This article was originally published here

10 things you can — and can’t — clean with vinegar

Does it live up to its reputation as a natural and nontoxic cleaning agent? It depends on what you expect vinegar to do — and what you are trying to clean.

* This article was originally published here

How To Easily Make Photo Magnets At Home

Looking for a fun and creative way to showcase your favorite memories? Making photo magnets at home is a simple, budget-friendly project that lets you turn your photos into cute, personalized decor for your fridge or workspace. Whether you’re looking to give gifts or just add a personal touch to your kitchen, this DIY project is perfect for all ages and skill levels.

Head over to this easy guide and learn how to make your own photo magnets with just a few supplies.

It’s a great way to add some personality to your space and keep your memories in view! Check it out here:

DIY How to Easily Make Photo Magnets at Home.

* This article was originally published here

A new leaf: cheap and low-cost ways to bring a garden to life

Experts and readers give tips on making the most of your outdoor space without spending thousands

You don’t need a luxury patio set, a subscription to a seed club or a pair of fancy gloves to have a great garden. Some of the most charming outdoor spaces have been created with hardly any budget at all – just a bit of time, a few innovative ideas and maybe the occasional raid of the recycling bin.

British garden owners say they would consider spending up to £4,700 to create their dream outdoor space, according to Wickes’s great garden report. However, with rising costs and more people living in temporary or shared spaces, many are finding cheaper ways to create something beautiful.

Continue reading...

* This article was originally published here

The Homesteading Movement Is Booming—Here’s How to Get Started Before It’s Too Late!

Have you noticed how the world is embracing homesteading more than ever? People are looking for ways to live sustainably, be more self-sufficient, and make the most of the space they have—whether it’s in the countryside or the heart of the city. The homesteading movement is in full swing, and it’s not just a passing trend. From growing your own food to harvesting rainwater and even living off the grid, more and more people are taking matters into their own hands to create a sustainable lifestyle.

So, why is homesteading booming right now? With the rising cost of living, environmental concerns, and a desire for a simpler, more meaningful life, people are seeing the value in being more self-reliant. The good news? It’s not too late to join this movement, and it’s easier to start than you might think. In fact, getting in on the homesteading action right now could change your life for the better.

Let’s break down what’s driving the homesteading craze, why it’s becoming so popular, and how you can start homesteading today—before the world catches on and it gets even harder to dive in.

Why Is Homesteading Gaining So Much Attention?

1. Rising Costs of Living
   One of the biggest drivers behind the homesteading movement is the rising costs of food, utilities, and everyday essentials. With inflation, supply chain issues, and climate change affecting crop yields, many families are feeling the pressure. Homesteading offers an opportunity to reduce those ongoing expenses, especially when it comes to food. Growing your own veggies, raising chickens for eggs, or even raising livestock for meat can be a game-changer.

2. Eco-Conscious Living
   Homesteading isn’t just about self-sufficiency; it’s also about living in a way that benefits the planet. From growing food without pesticides to harvesting rainwater and relying on renewable energy like solar panels, homesteading allows people to reduce their carbon footprint. In a world increasingly concerned about climate change, sustainable living is no longer a niche—it’s the future.

3. The Desire for Freedom and Independence
   There’s something incredibly empowering about being able to rely on yourself. Many people are tired of being tied to the 9-5 grind and the constant need to depend on large corporations for their needs. Homesteading gives people a chance to break free from that dependency and create a life where they are in control. Whether it’s producing your own food, having energy independence, or being prepared for emergencies, homesteading offers freedom and peace of mind.

4. The Influence of Social Media and Online Communities
   Social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube have made homesteading more accessible than ever. There are thriving communities of homesteaders sharing their stories, tips, and advice for beginners. Watching someone transform their backyard into a self-sufficient farm or seeing people raise goats and chickens can be incredibly inspiring. Plus, the wealth of information available online makes it easy to get started—even if you live in a city.

How to Get Started with Homesteading Before It’s Too Late

Now that you know why homesteading is booming, let’s dive into how you can start your homesteading journey today. Whether you have acres of land or a small backyard, there are plenty of ways to get involved in the movement.

Start with a Plan

Before you start planting gardens or collecting chickens, it’s important to have a plan. Think about what kind of lifestyle you want to create. Are you looking to grow your own food? Collect rainwater? Generate your own energy? Having a clear idea of what you want to achieve will make your homesteading journey much smoother. Start small and build up over time—don’t try to do everything at once.

Grow Your Own Food

Growing your own food is the cornerstone of homesteading. Even if you don’t have a lot of space, container gardening, vertical gardening, and raised beds can make it possible to grow vegetables and herbs in small spaces. Start with easy-to-grow plants like tomatoes, lettuce, carrots, or peppers. If you have more space, you can also look into growing fruit trees or even creating a small orchard. Growing your own food not only saves you money but also gives you the satisfaction of knowing where your meals come from.

Consider Raising Livestock

If you have a bit more space or are interested in a more involved homesteading lifestyle, raising small livestock like chickens, ducks, or even goats might be the right choice for you. Chickens are especially popular because they are relatively easy to care for and can provide fresh eggs. Keep in mind, though, that raising animals does require time, space, and effort. If you’re just starting, consider learning about animal husbandry before diving in.

Invest in Renewable Energy

Going off-grid doesn’t mean you have to give up modern comforts. Renewable energy sources like solar panels, wind turbines, or even micro-hydro systems can help you reduce your reliance on the grid. Many people are starting with solar panels to power their homes, and it’s easier than ever to install these systems, even if you’re on a budget. Not only will this save you money in the long run, but it also contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle.

Water Conservation: Harvest Rainwater

Water is one of our most precious resources, and harvesting rainwater is an excellent way to reduce your environmental footprint. By installing a rainwater collection system, you can capture rainwater from your roof and use it to water your garden, wash your car, or even for household use. It’s a simple but effective way to make your homestead more self-sufficient and eco-friendly.

Embrace Zero-Waste and Sustainability

Homesteading and sustainability go hand in hand. Whether it’s composting food scraps, making your own cleaning supplies, or using natural, non-toxic materials, zero-waste living is an integral part of homesteading. The goal is to reduce your reliance on plastic, store-bought products, and chemicals. Small changes like switching to reusable bags, bottles, and containers can make a big difference.

Build a Community

Homesteading doesn’t have to be a solo journey. Building a supportive community of like-minded individuals can help you stay motivated and learn from others. Join local homesteading groups, participate in online forums, or start a social media account to connect with others on the same path. Sharing tips, ideas, and resources can make the journey much easier—and more enjoyable!

The Time to Start is Now

Homesteading is growing in popularity, but it’s still possible to get in on the ground floor. The earlier you start, the more time you have to learn, experiment, and adjust your approach. The homesteading movement is all about taking control of your life, reducing your reliance on outside sources, and creating a sustainable future for yourself and your family.

So, whether you’re planting your first vegetable garden, learning how to preserve food, or just considering adding a few chickens to your backyard, now is the perfect time to start. Don’t wait until everyone else catches on—begin your homesteading adventure today and start building a more sustainable, self-sufficient life for tomorrow.

Are you ready to take the plunge? Start small, stay focused, and enjoy the process. The homesteading movement is waiting for you!

 

* This article was originally published here

Self-cleaning cutting board sets are everywhere. But do they work?

“Self-cleaning” really means “self-drying.” But the scissors are nice.

* This article was originally published here

How to do your pet’s laundry

Walter’s hoodie and Charlotte’s leash need a rinse.

* This article was originally published here

How to shop for clothes you won’t have to purge in a year

Knowing what you have and figuring out your personal “basics” will save you money and effort down the road.

* This article was originally published here

Printable ice cream cone wrappers

Do you need to add a touch of color and excitement to your next ice cream social? Look no further! With my printable ice cream cone wrappers, you can make sure that everyone’s favorite summer dessert looks its best.

Looking to add a sweet touch to your party treats? These printable cone wrappers are the perfect way to dress up ice cream cones, cupcakes, or any cone-shaped snacks for your next event. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a baby shower, or just want to make snack time more fun, these wrappers are an easy and adorable way to make your treats stand out. Plus, they’re super simple to print and use! Ready to give your desserts a little extra flair? Check out these printable cone wrappers and start decorating today! Printable Cone Wrappers.

* This article was originally published here

Retro paradiso: a lakeside home in Italy is now a nostalgic haven

A 1960s house has been brought back to its former glory, with a contemporary twist

It feels as if time has stopped, frozen in the swinging 1960s, as you pass through the pristine gate that opens on to this enchanting lakefront building. The lake in question is the magical and wild Mergozzo, tiny, utterly charming and yet still rarely visited by tourists.

The house was built in 1963. Its equally fascinating current owner, Hilary Belle Walker, has American roots – San Francisco is her hometown, but she moved to Italy at the age of 23.

Continue reading...

* This article was originally published here

* This article was originally published here

Retro paradiso: a lakeside home in Italy is now a nostalgic haven

A 1960s house has been brought back to its former glory, with a contemporary twist

It feels as if time has stopped, frozen in the swinging 1960s, as you pass through the pristine gate that opens on to this enchanting lakefront building. The lake in question is the magical and wild Mergozzo, tiny, utterly charming and yet still rarely visited by tourists.

The house was built in 1963. Its equally fascinating current owner, Hilary Belle Walker, has American roots – San Francisco is her hometown, but she moved to Italy at the age of 23.

Continue reading...

* This article was originally published here

Autumn leaves: how to prepare your garden for winter more sustainably

Now is the time to save seeds, give your perennials their autumn haircut and plant your winter veg. And why not try a green manure to nourish your soil?

• Change by degrees offers life hacks and sustainable living tips each Saturday to help reduce your household’s carbon footprint
• Got a question or tip for reducing household emissions? Email us at changebydegrees@theguardian.com

As summer crops and blooms wind down and cosiness calls, it’s time to prepare our outdoor spaces for the cooler months. Getting your garden ready for winter doesn’t have to mean costly trips to the garden centre and can instead be approached with resourcefulness and a focus on “closed systems” that minimise waste and encourage biodiversity.

Continue reading...

* This article was originally published here

Beat brain rot: clear your mind with 55 screen-free activities, from birdwatching to colouring books

Feel like screen time is sapping your concentration? Take a break from the digital world this Easter with these mindful suggestions

• 19 self-care treats for the perfect pick-me-up

I’m sure many of us are guilty of relying on our phones to decompress, even when taking some downtime. But if your social media feeds are anything like mine – an endless stream of fad workouts, meal plans and extravagant skincare routines – it’s more likely to whip you into an anxious frenzy than leave you feeling calm and relaxed. Whether you have social media anxiety, insomnia or are just terrified by the idea of “brain rot”, you need a way to de-stress that doesn’t involve a screen, especially when many of us stare at one all day for work or school.

I’m sure we’re all familiar with the concept of mindfulness and how the practice can help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and boost concentration. But you might not realise how easy it is to incorporate it into your everyday life – after all, at its core, mindfulness is just about keeping yourself in the present moment. So to help you do just that, I’ve compiled a list of screen-free activities to help you clear your mind, get outside (if the weather allows) and be more mindful, without meditating.

Continue reading...

* This article was originally published here

Cut back your roses? Berkeley sets new rules for its most wildfire-prone areas

Residents of California city’s high-risk areas will be required to remove plants within 5ft of homes under fire safety rules

The city of Berkeley has a new message for residents of its most fire-prone neighborhoods: it’s time to cut back your gardens.

People living in the most high-fire-risk areas of the California city will be required to remove plants and other flammable materials close to their homes as part of strict new wildfire safety rules the city moved to adopt this week.

Continue reading...

* This article was originally published here

Set alerts, use filters and buy less: everything I’ve learned about secondhand shopping

This week: top tips for buying preloved; the best secateurs, tested; and genuinely great-smelling diffusers

While waiting for a show during London fashion week in February, I and a few fashion writers, stylists and editors were admiring each other’s outfits. Surprise, surprise, we discovered that the pieces we loved most were preowned (and largely from charity shops, I might add).

It’s no secret that industry insiders love secondhand fashion: Kate Moss is known for her love of vintage; British Vogue recently hosted a vintage sale in collaboration with eBay; celebrities such as Zendaya, Kendall Jenner and Miley Cyrus are turning to archive looks for their red carpet appearances; even Selfridges now offers Reselfridges, a range of preloved designer bags and accessories.

The best secateurs to save you time and effort when pruning your garden, tested

The best diffusers for your home: 22 genuinely great-smelling diffusers for every mood and budget

The best power banks and battery packs for reliable charging on the go, tested

‘Very pale and oddly wrinkly’: the best (and worst) supermarket hot cross buns for Easter, tested

Continue reading...

* This article was originally published here

* This article was originally published here

Set alerts, use filters and buy less: everything I’ve learned about secondhand shopping

This week: top tips for buying preloved; the best secateurs, tested; and genuinely great-smelling diffusers

While waiting for a show during London fashion week in February, I and a few fashion writers, stylists and editors were admiring each other’s outfits. Surprise, surprise, we discovered that the pieces we loved most were preowned (and largely from charity shops, I might add).

It’s no secret that industry insiders love secondhand fashion: Kate Moss is known for her love of vintage; British Vogue recently hosted a vintage sale in collaboration with eBay; celebrities such as Zendaya, Kendall Jenner and Miley Cyrus are turning to archive looks for their red carpet appearances; even Selfridges now offers Reselfridges, a range of preloved designer bags and accessories.

The best secateurs to save you time and effort when pruning your garden, tested

The best diffusers for your home: 22 genuinely great-smelling diffusers for every mood and budget

The best power banks and battery packs for reliable charging on the go, tested

‘Very pale and oddly wrinkly’: the best (and worst) supermarket hot cross buns for Easter, tested

Continue reading...

* This article was originally published here

Poppy Okotcha: ‘Plants taught me about myself’

In her verdant garden in Devon, the model turned gardener talks about decay, family roots and living a wilder life

It is not by design that I have come to meet the Devon-based ecological gardener Poppy Okotcha on the spring equinox, when day and night are equally balanced. It feels fitting. In her new book, A Wilder Way: How Gardens Grow Us, Okotcha describes how it is now that she rids her garden of last year’s old branches to make way for new growth. “Clearing the lot is a springtime ritual,” she writes, “it feels like shaking off a heavy winter coat.” Okotcha sees the garden as “a kind of guru”, and one of its lessons has been the importance of things breaking down. “A really valuable takeaway from engaging with living landscapes is the idea that decay – or an ending – is required for newness,” she tells me. “I like to think of endings as beginnings.” While the idea of a horticultural life cycle isn’t new, Okotcha’s equal appreciation for every stage of it, and the parallels she draws between gardens and the human condition, feels fresh.

Born to a Nigerian father and white British mother, Okotcha was brought up between the English countryside and South Africa, where her family relocated for six years when she was five. She describes the many gardens she grew up with, from her grandmother’s “magic-filled plot” in Wiltshire to the “sweet fruits and sunshine” of various gardens in Johannesburg, and several more, rather wilder spaces tended by her mum after her parents’ divorce and return to the UK. In South Africa, Okotcha and her siblings attended a Steiner school where she “learned about compost and played in the dust”, a far cry from the mainstream education she returned to in Britain. Through it all, the gardens, albeit changing, were a constant. And realising how the effort of transforming a garden healed her mother after divorce was, says Okotcha, a defining moment, “Seeing her love for the flowers and how they loved her in return.”

Continue reading...

* This article was originally published here

* This article was originally published here

Poppy Okotcha: ‘Plants taught me about myself’

In her verdant garden in Devon, the model turned gardener talks about decay, family roots and living a wilder life

It is not by design that I have come to meet the Devon-based ecological gardener Poppy Okotcha on the spring equinox, when day and night are equally balanced. It feels fitting. In her new book, A Wilder Way: How Gardens Grow Us, Okotcha describes how it is now that she rids her garden of last year’s old branches to make way for new growth. “Clearing the lot is a springtime ritual,” she writes, “it feels like shaking off a heavy winter coat.” Okotcha sees the garden as “a kind of guru”, and one of its lessons has been the importance of things breaking down. “A really valuable takeaway from engaging with living landscapes is the idea that decay – or an ending – is required for newness,” she tells me. “I like to think of endings as beginnings.” While the idea of a horticultural life cycle isn’t new, Okotcha’s equal appreciation for every stage of it, and the parallels she draws between gardens and the human condition, feels fresh.

Born to a Nigerian father and white British mother, Okotcha was brought up between the English countryside and South Africa, where her family relocated for six years when she was five. She describes the many gardens she grew up with, from her grandmother’s “magic-filled plot” in Wiltshire to the “sweet fruits and sunshine” of various gardens in Johannesburg, and several more, rather wilder spaces tended by her mum after her parents’ divorce and return to the UK. In South Africa, Okotcha and her siblings attended a Steiner school where she “learned about compost and played in the dust”, a far cry from the mainstream education she returned to in Britain. Through it all, the gardens, albeit changing, were a constant. And realising how the effort of transforming a garden healed her mother after divorce was, says Okotcha, a defining moment, “Seeing her love for the flowers and how they loved her in return.”

Continue reading...

* This article was originally published here

Why is my washing machine staining my linens?

The color and pattern of the stain — as well as where it occurs — can help you figure out the cause, and the solution

* This article was originally published here

The corporate quest to make better toilet paper

Can perforation be perfected? Those toiling in the world of toilet paper R&D are trying.

* This article was originally published here

Conserving our seeds the homegrown way | Letters

An alternative to freezing seeds for future generations is highlighted by Judy Steele. Plus gardening advice from Shirely Neish

Re Chris Smith’s article (I don’t want to die with a freezer full of seeds. Biodiversity and preservation need rethinking, 2 April), the Heritage Seed Library (HSL) based at Ryton Organic Gardens in Warwickshire has been encouraging its members to conserve seeds in their own gardens since the 1970s.

The HSL, set up by Lawrence D Hills, was ahead of its time and is still going strong with 800 varieties safely stored – either local or discontinued by seed firms – but also regularly grown. Each year its members can choose from 100 rare varieties, and HSL seed guardians grow larger amounts for seed to ensure there are stocks for the future. Local seeds adapt to local conditions and may be more resilient in our changing climate, as Smith points out.
Judy Steele
Radford Semele, Warwickshire

Continue reading...

* This article was originally published here

Have questions about your pet? Ask The Post’s veterinarian columnist.

Ask a veterinarian about your pet’s habits, health, behavior and more

* This article was originally published here

From no-show couriers to food banks: my quest to rehome everything we test on the Filter

This week: what happens to products after we review them; spring gardening gear; and anti-ageing essentials (including sunscreen)

At the Filter, we test a LOT of products. We’ve put everything from mattresses to treadmills through their paces to try to help you make better-informed shopping decisions. However, that means our expert testers can accumulate a lot of products. After all, you can’t find the best air fryer without taking a few for a spin. So, with sustainability – as well as journalistic independence, unswayed by promises of freebies – in mind, we’ve always promised to return samples to the manufacturer after testing or, where that’s not possible, donate them to good causes.

That’s where I come in. As the Filter’s researcher, it’s my job to not only help find and source products but also rehome them when they’re finished with. I’ve been tasked with getting everything, from blenders to electric toothbrushes and even food, from writers’ homes across the country to charities that can benefit from them the most.

Anti-ageing products that actually work: Sali Hughes on the 30 best serums, creams and treatments

Jess Cartner-Morley’s April style essentials: from sexy spring sweaters to the loafers that won the high street

The best walking pads and under-desk treadmills, tried and tested to turn your work day into a workout

‘Cute, but doesn’t taste too good’: the best (and worst) Easter chocolate treats, tested

Continue reading...

* This article was originally published here

Unlock the Magic of Eggshell Crafts – Create Stunning, Eco-Friendly DIY Decor with This Simple Tutorial

Looking for a creative, eco-friendly craft project that’s as beautiful as it is fun? These Eggshell Crafts are the perfect way to turn everyday materials into stunning decor! Whether you’re looking to create delicate decorations or intricate designs, this easy tutorial will show you how to transform empty eggshells into a variety of beautiful pieces.

This DIY project not only helps you reuse materials in a sustainable way but also brings out your inner artist. From Easter accents to delicate ornaments, eggshell crafts offer endless possibilities for customization. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to add a touch of elegance and creativity to your home decor.

Ready to make something unique and eco-conscious? Check out the full tutorial here! and start creating your own eggshell masterpieces today!

Eggshell Seed Starters

Easy Eggshell Garden

Eggshell Mosaic Art by Linda Biggers

DIY Modern Spring Wall Hanging

* This article was originally published here