One of the best things about curling up in newly washed sheets is their crisp, clean scent. Yet within a day or two, the smell is often gone. Instead of investing in expensive commercial fabric sprays, you can easily create your own using your favorite scents. Not only is this a very affordable option, but a homemade spray also allows you to control the ingredients and avoid potentially harmful chemicals.

You can use any type of essential oil that you like and create different sprays for different applications. For instance, consider a calming scent, such as lavender, to spray on your bedding just before you go to sleep. Besides using your DIY linen spray on sheets, you also can spritz it on clothes, towels, drapery, and other fabrics in your home to give them a refresh and keep everything smelling clean in between washes. A light spritz should be fine for most types of fabrics, but be sure to test the spray on an inconspicuous spot first.

Before You Begin

If you will be reusing an old spray bottle for this project, make sure to thoroughly wash it. It should not have any lingering odors, as they might mix with your essential oils to create an unpleasant scent. Likewise, the spray bottle should not have any residues that might be harmful when sprayed on fabrics. Consider a glass bottle over plastic, as odors and residues are less likely to seep into the material.

Thankfully, there are lots of ways to treat roach infestations. While there are some relatively inexpensive DIY methods that can be effective on a small scale, they tend to be messy and time-consuming and aren’t typically sufficient for severe infestations. If you see signs of heavy cockroach activity, it’s best to have a pest control technician inspect your home, diagnose the problem, and perform extermination.

The cost of professional extermination depends on the area that needs to be treated and on the specific method used, which can vary based on the species of roach and the severity of the infestation. On average, most roach treatments cost between $250 and $375, but if you need to fumigate, prepare to spend at least $1,000. With that in mind, we’ve laid out a range of cost estimates and an explanation of what factors into your final bill. Eradicating cockroaches might not be cheap, but it’s always necessary.

How Much Is an Exterminator for Roaches?

According to the CEO of Goodbee Plumbing, Allison Harrison—who frequently partners with extermination companies in her role—cockroach treatment prices “can depend on several factors, including the severity of the infestation, the size of the property, the type of treatment required, and the location of the property.” Due to all of these variants, price estimates cover a pretty broad range, with prices generally getting higher as the infestation becomes more severe and widespread.

Tim Sherrer, the owner of Expest Exterminating, provided a range of estimates for exterminating German cockroaches, the most common species of roach that homeowners encounter:

Cost of Roach Treatments

There are different types of roach treatments available, and it will be up to the exterminator you’re working with to decide which to use. They’ll likely make their decision based on the severity of your infestation. Minor to moderate roach issues tend to be treated with sprays, gel baits, glue traps, and roach dust. Generally speaking, for these treatments, the more rooms you need to apply the treatment in, the more the extermination will cost.

Fumigation is reserved for the most severe infestations and requires you to vacate your home while it’s being conducted, as a poisonous gas is released throughout the premises. As such, this is the most expensive type of treatment. According to Harrison, this is what you can expect to pay for various roach treatments:

Best Roach Exterminators Near You

Terminix is one of the biggest names in pest control, with over 300 locations nationwide and nearly a century of experience. It offers both quarterly and one-time roach extermination plans. When a technician comes to your home for an initial visit, they’ll determine exactly which species of cockroach has infested your home, as well as the severity of the problem. Then they’ll share recommended treatment methods. Terminix will tailor its treatment to your situation and may use baits or sprays to eliminate the infestation. The company doesn’t perform fumigation itself; instead, it will subcontract that service out to a third party if your situation requires it.

Terminix also offers a Nix Pest Guarantee, which means that if the initial treatment fails to eradicate your roaches, the company will return for a re-treatment, free of charge. Keep in mind that there’s a bit of fine print you should read before booking a cockroach elimination plan with Terminix. For example, its One-Time Pest Control plan only provides re-treatment if pests return within 30 days of the first treatment; after that, you’re not guaranteed free re-treatments.

The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the windows are open. It is all lovely, but letting in the fresh air unfortunately means an uptick in the housekeeper’s oldest enemy—dust. This is especially tough in the spring when allergens move through the air and into your house via dust particles. Suddenly, you’re sneezing and sniffling and wondering how to get rid of that pesky thin film that’s covering everything you see.

What’s worse? Most feather dusters don’t actually pick up dirt, they just push it around. You can spend six hours dusting your entire home from ceiling to floor and still see specks everywhere you look if you’re not using the right methods and supplies.

Follow the steps below to learn how to get rid of dust in your home. Your home will be sparkling and speck-free in no time

How Often Should You Dust Your Home?

To really get rid of dust for good (or at least for a while) you’ll need more than just a feather duster. Our recommendation to keep dust out of your home is to give it a good dusting/cleaning at least once per month for easy-to-reach areas, like your ceiling fan and upholstery. Tackle more difficult spots every three to six months, like high windows and ceilings, small items like picture frames, and shelves.

No matter whether you have a dedicated pantry or just a couple of shelves in a cabinet for food storage, keeping it clean and organized is important. With an organized pantry, you can help protect your food from insect infestation, save money by using products before they expire, and access ingredients quickly during meal preparation.

Cleaning a pantry takes a bit of time but you can do it with just four easy steps. Set aside an hour or so and you’ll be amazed at how good your pantry can look and function.

How Often to Clean Out Your Pantry

Ideally, you should clean your pantry at least four times a year as the seasons change. However, twice a year is a good start.

Spills of wet or dry items should be cleaned up immediately. If you see insect infestation, the pantry should be cleaned right away to prevent further spread to the rest of your kitchen or home.

How to Clean Out Your Pantry

Empty the Pantry Shelves

Take everything out of the pantry. If you don’t have counter space close by, bring over a table or place some cardboard boxes on the floor to hold everything.

Unfortunately, sheds can deteriorate into an oversized junk drawer if you’re not intentional about storing items properly and with care. If your shed has become a crowded collection of garden hoses and baseball bats, or if you don’t even know what’s in your shed anymore, it’s time to take a deep dive into this once-loved storage space and restore it to its former glory. Use the five steps listed below to transform your shed into a functional “bonus” storage solution.

Know What You Have

It’s easy to stock up on extra goods and equipment when you have a shed. A discounted bag of fertilizer you purchased off season, a bird feeder you spotted at a neighboring garage sale—they all seem so convenient and ideal until your shed has evolved into a box of cluttered chaos you’d prefer to ignore. If you truly want to address the mess, however, you’ll have to lean into that chaos. Spend a day (or even a weekend) pulling everything out of your shed. Lay it all out in your yard or driveway, so you can get a full picture of what you own. Once you’ve gained a clearer idea of your shed’s contents, you can begin sorting it all in a way that makes sense.

Cut Out the Clutter

Your shed is an easy space to fill and forget. It’s also easy to fill and neglect. Perhaps you’ve stuffed your shed with family heirlooms you hope to pass down to a child or relative. Maybe you purchased a vintage chair you had planned to reupholster but never got around to it. Now that you’ve pulled everything out of your storage shed, take advantage of this prime opportunity to cut out the clutter. Toss leftover pain cans. Donate duplicate (but still functional) tools. As you sift through your possessions, you may also find that some items would be best kept elsewhere, like extra bedding or important documents. Consider temperature, moisture, and pests, and relocate items that are sensitive to these factors. Evaluate every item slowly and intentionally.

Group Your Belongings

You’ve parted ways with the clutter and re-homed necessary items, but it’s not quite time to move everything back into storage. If you complete this whole process only to find yourself still overwhelmed by your shed and unable to locate what you need when you need it, you haven’t truly addressed the mess. So now that you’ve narrowed down the contents of your shed, spend some time sorting through your remaining goods and arranging them into groups, like gardening tools, seasonal decor, and propane and oil tanks. Group your belongings into categories, so you can create an organized storage system.

Invest in Proper Storage

While cardboard boxes are certainly affordable, they’re not particularly effective storage containers for a shed. Before you refill your shed with shovels and tarps, think about your previous means of storage and adjust where necessary. First, make sure bins, shelves, and other storage areas are still functional. Toss cracked containers and replace sagging shelves. Consider your storage categories and add labels to help you locate items quickly. Ultimately, you should have fun and get creative with this step. For example, you can utilize wall space for hanging your gardening tools. Additionally, if you keep items like wrenches and hammers in your shed, you can install a magnetic strip along the wall to store them.

Keep Your Shed Tidy

To make sure your shed stays organized, try to avoid the habits that created a chaotic space in the first place. When you’re tempted to toss in cushions from your outdoor patio furniture before winter, think about how that action will affect future visits to the shed. After you’ve used your yard tools, resist the urge to drop them by the door and race to the shower. Clean your dirt-caked shovels and shears thoroughly, then put them back in their proper homes. Finally, when you want to add something new to the shed, make sure you are purposeful about its placement. Stick to your storage system, and you’ll be happy you did.

A naturally occurring mineral compound, baking soda can dissolve mineral deposits and organic materials such as grease. Baking soda has slight disinfectant properties to combat odor-causing bacteria and fungi. Regular cleaning with baking soda may prevent clogs from forming. Before using chemical drain cleaners or disassembling the drain trap, try baking soda to see if it does the trick.

Tungsten rings have gained popularity because of their durability, stylish appearance, and affordability. Jewelers also use tungsten carbide to create bracelets, necklaces, and earrings that are much more affordable than silver, gold, or platinum. The metal will not tarnish, is rust-resistant, and is easy to clean.

Tungsten carbide jewelry is formed from 80 percent elemental Tungsten and 20 percent Carbon alloyed with other metals. The process begins with fine gray powder that is heated, pressed, and formed into shapes for jewelry, industrial machinery, and plates for armored vests.

Learn how to keep your tungsten ring and other jewelry clean with a few products you already have on hand.

How Often to Clean a Tungsten Ring

The cleaning schedule for a tungsten ring is highly dependent on the work you are doing with your hands. The ring should be cleaned as soon as possible after any exposure to harsh chemicals like ammonia, chlorine, or motor oils. Even body oils, bathing, and cleaning products can leave the finish looking dull. If your ring has lost its luster, it’s time to give it a thorough cleaning. This can be done monthly or as needed.

Equipment / Tools

• Two small bowls
• Soft toothbrush
• Microfiber cloth

Materials

• Mild dishwashing liquid
• Warm water

Instructions

 

Mix a Cleaning Solution

Add one cup of warm water and about three drops of a mild dishwashing liquid to a small bowl. Do not use any type of cleaning product that contains ammonia or chlorine bleach.

Remove and Inspect Your Ring

Remove your ring and inspect it for any loose stones or other issues. If you see a problem, do not continue and take your ring to a jeweler for repair.

 

Add the Ring to the Cleaning Solution

Place the ring in the cleaning solution. Allow it to soak for at least 10 minutes. If the ring has engraving or mounted stones, let it soak a bit longer to help loosen the soil that has accumulated in those areas.

Tip

Several tungsten rings, bracelets, or necklaces can be cleaned in the same cleaning solution. Adjust the size of the bowl and the amount of solution to accommodate the jewelry you are cleaning.

 

Remove the Ring From the Cleaning Solution

After soaking, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub away any visible soil. Pay close attention to engraved areas or the nooks and crannies around mounted stones. If some of the grime will not come off, return the ring to the soaking solution for another 10-15 minutes and try again.

 

Rinse and Buff Dry

After scrubbing, dip the jewelry in a bowl of clean warm water to rinse away any residue or hold the ring under a soft running stream of warm water. Use a lint-free microfiber cloth to dry and buff the ring.

WARNING

While tungsten is an extremely hard metal, it is not impervious to damage. Chemicals like chlorine bleach, drain cleaners, oven cleaners, and ammonia can damage the finish of your ring.

An ultrasonic jewelry cleaner solution may contain chemicals that, if used regularly, can cause microscopic fractures in your ring which can trap dirt and weaken the ring.

Tips to Keep Your Tungsten Ring Clean and Looking Great Longer

• Remove your tungsten ring when going swimming in a chlorinated pool or hot tub.
• Remove your ring when working with household bleach, ammonia, or motor oils.
• Store tungsten rings in a soft, cloth bag to protect them from scratches from diamond jewelry in your jewelry box. Storing them separately also protects your stainless steel, silver, gold, gold-plated, and platinum jewelry from scratches caused by the tungsten.

Sneakers are one of the easiest items to get dirty—and because of how popular Converse sneakers are with kids, it’s almost inevitable that they will need cleaning from time to time. Between running through grass and dirt, Converse can start to become dull and dingy in minutes. But, the good news is that they’re easy to clean.

Whether you are wearing Converse sneakers for sport or just stylin’, learn how to properly clean all types of Converse sneakers.

Fun Facts

The company began operation as the Converse Rubber Shoe Company in February 1908 in Malden, Massachusetts. Chuck Taylor, a basketball player, was hired in 1923 as a salesman and in 1932 his name became synonymous with classic basketball sneakers. Converse was purchased by Nike in July, 2003, and the line expanded to include custom designs.

What You’ll Need

Equipment / Tools

• Soft-bristled brush
• Small bowl
• Suede brush
• Sponge or microfiber cloth

Materials

• Gentle detergent
• Melamine sponge
• White tissue paper
• Baking soda
• Cornstarch
• Fabric protective spray

Instructions

How to Clean Canvas and Leather Converse Sneakers

 

Remove and Clean the Laces

It is always easier to clean any type of sneakers if you remove the laces first. You can access the tongue of the shoe and get deeper into the interior to clean the insole.

To clean the laces, fill a small bowl with warm water and add a few drops of detergent or dishwashing liquid. Submerge the laces and let them soak as you clean the rest of the shoes.

After soaking, use your hands or a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works great) to scrub the laces. Rinse well in fresh water and roll in a towel to absorb most of the moisture. Hang the laces to dry.

Tip

If the laces are the dirtiest part of the sneakers, replace them and your sneakers will immediately look better.

 

Remove Excess Dirt

If your shoes are covered with mud, allow it to dry completely and then use a soft-bristled brush to remove the dirt from the soles and uppers.

 

Wipe Away Soil From the Exterior

Mix a solution of warm water and a mild detergent in a small bowl. Dip a sponge or microfiber cloth in the solution and wring until it is not dripping.

Gently rub the sneaker to remove soil from the canvas and outer sole. Rinse the cloth often as the soil is transferred. If there are scuffs on the outer sole, dip a melamine sponge (Mr. Clean Eraser) in the cleaning solution and gently scrub the sole. Do not use the melamine sponge on the canvas or leather uppers.

 

Clean the Inside of the Shoes

Mix a fresh solution of the cleaning mixture. Dip a microfiber cloth in the solution and wring it out well to wipe down the interior of the sneakers.

Tip

To freshen smelly sneakers between cleanings, loosen the laces and open up the shoe as much as possible. Sprinkle the inside with dry baking soda. Allow the baking soda to work for at least four hours, overnight is better. Shake out the baking soda before wearing.

 

Air-Dry the Sneakers

Allow the shoes to air-dry completely before wearing. To help high-tops keep their shape while drying, stuff them with white tissue paper. If the shoes are quite damp, change the paper after an hour. When the shoes are dry, relace the sneakers.

WARNING

The Converse website warns that its sneakers should not be machine-washed or dried under any circumstances.

 

How to Clean Suede Converse Sneakers

 

Clean or Replace the Laces

Remove the laces from the shoes and clean them as recommended above or replace them.

 

Remove Excess Soil

If your suede sneakers are covered with mud or are wet, allow them to air-dry completely before you attempt to remove the soil. Use a soft-bristled brush to clean the sole. Do not brush the suede with a toothbrush or scrub brush.

 

Clean the Exterior Suede and Sole

Suede should be completely dry and only brushed with a specialty suede brush to remove dirt from the suede leather. If there are oily stains, sprinkle them with cornstarch. Allow the cornstarch to remain on the suede for several hours to absorb the oil, then brush it away. Repeat until all of the oil is absorbed.

Use a damp melamine sponge or cloth to clean the outer sole.

 

Clean the Interior of the Sneakers

Follow the same cleaning tips for canvas and leather sneakers to clean the inside of suede sneakers.

 

Air-Dry the Shoes

After cleaning, allow the shoes to air-dry. Once the interior and exterior of the suede sneakers are completely dry, use the suede brush to lift the nap.

 

Tips to Keep Your Converse Sneakers Clean Longer

• Allow the sneakers to air-dry between every wearing to allow the fibers to recover.
• Clean or replace laces often.
• Treat canvas sneakers with a fabric protective spray that will help repel soil.
• Store Converse sneakers in a breathable cotton bag to prevent dust from settling on the shoes.

A bathroom gets lots of use and is usually one of the most dreaded rooms to clean. But, it actually can be one of the simplest to clean, as almost all bathroom surfaces are impermeable to stains and stand up well to cleaning products.

By following these five steps, you can have a clean bathroom in no time. Read on for our guide to cleaning your bathroom.

How Often to Clean a Bathroom

A bathroom should be thoroughly cleaned at least once a week to reduce bacteria and odors. However, by spending less than five minutes each day, that weekly cleaning can take just 15 to 20 minutes. Do these simple tasks every day:

• Wipe down the sink and countertop with a quick spray of your preferred disinfecting cleaner and a cleaning cloth.
• Quickly wipe down the toilet handle and seat with a disinfectant wipe.
• Return all items to their proper spot instead of leaving them scattered across the counter.
• Use a squeegee or a towel to dry shower enclosures or the bathtub.
• Hang towels to dry and place all dirty laundry in a hamper.

Instructions

How to Clean Your Bathroom

Clear the Surfaces

The bathroom will be easier to clean if you clear items from the surfaces.

• • Pick up any towels, bath rugs, or laundry that is on the floor and put them in a hamper.
  • Clear the vanity countertop as much as possible
  • Gather and remove the products in the shower or sitting along the edge of the tub.
  • Remove the trashcan and any decorative items.

Start Dry and at the Top

Removing dust and loose dirt from surfaces will make cleaning easier. No need to push that dirt around.

• Use a disposable duster to dust light fixtures and the bathroom exhaust fan.
• Dust off the shower rod or top of the enclosure and towel bars.
• Dust the window sills, door frames and trim, and baseboards.
• Dust the top of the toilet tank, shelves, and counters.
• Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove hair and loose dirt.

Let the Cleaning Products Do Their Job

You will have less scrubbing to do if you let the cleaning products do their job first. They need time to work before you start scrubbing.

• Spray the shower/tub so the cleaning product can begin the process of breaking the bond between the soap scum and the surfaces.
• Add the toilet cleaner to the bowl.

Clean Each Room Surface

• Start by cleaning the vanity countertop, the sink(s), and faucet hardware with an all-purpose bathroom cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Don’t forget to check and clean the front of the vanity or sink for smudges and dirt. Replace any products you removed before starting to clean.
• Use a glass cleaner and a lint-free microfiber cleaner to clean the mirror.
• Go back to the shower/tub area and scrub the walls, floor/tub, and plumbing fixtures. Rinse well. Don’t forget the shower door track if you have one and for a glass enclosure, use a squeegee or towels to dry it completely so there will be no water spotting. Replace any shower products you removed before cleaning the area.
• Now, scrub the toilet. Use a brush and scrub the bowl and under the bowl rim. Use disinfecting wipes to clean the handle, seat, and outside of the toilet.