The Home Know-It-All

Green Your Water Heater

Here’s a little factoid to convince you to participate in today’s Green Around the House Challenge: Water heating accounts for up to 15.5 percent of the energy used in your home—second only to HVAC systems in regard to residential energy consumption, according to ENERGY STAR®.

Part of the reason is that although you probably use hot water infrequently (for hand-washing, bathing, and dish-washing), your water heater is always hard at work keeping water warm so it’s ready for you on demand.

Fortunately, slashing your water heater energy consumption is easier than you might think. Here are three moves you can do this weekend, plus info on water heater upgrades that will save you considerably in the long run.

Turn down the temp. This is the easiest green move on the list. Head to your water heater, figure out where the temperature setting is, and turn it down to “normal” or 120 degrees. For every 10 degrees you reduce your water heater temperature, you can save 3 to 5 percent on energy costs according to the U.S. Department of Energy. (Bonus: Turning down the water heater to 120 degrees is a smart safety move that prevents scalding.)

Buy a blanket. Wrapping your water heater in an insulation blanket can reduce water heating energy consumption by 4 to 9 percent. Not sure if your water heater needs the extra insulation? Touch the tank. If it’s warm to the touch, it’s time to insulate. (It’s also a good idea to check your owner’s manual first, however, as some specifically state that the tank shouldn’t be insulated.)

You can purchase a pre-cut jacket or blanket for $10 to $20 from your local hardware or home improvement store. Some utilities sell them too—and may even install them for you. If you’re tackling installation yourself (don’t worry, it’s a piece of cake), the U.S. Department of Energy provides a handy guide that shows you how.

Insulate your pipes. While you’re in insulation mode, why not take care of your water heater pipes too? It’s an incredibly easy way to improve energy efficiency. All you do is measure the circumference of the intake and outtake pipes. Then head to the hardware store and buy insulation (usually $2 to $4 per strip), a utility knife, and acrylic or duct tape. According to Greenyour.com, the process is as easy as cutting the insulation to fit the length and diameter of your pipes, slipping the insulation onto the pipes, and securing the insulation every foot or so with tape. Pretty darn doable, eh?

Buy ENERGY STAR. If you’re in the market for a new water heater this year, you’re in luck. As of January 1, 2009, you can purchase ENERGY STAR® water heaters. There are five different technologies that have earned the ENERGY STAR rating and, depending on which technology you choose, you’ll reduce your heating bills anywhere from 7.5 to 55 percent. Here’s a rundown on each, thanks to information from the U.S. Department of Energy.

• High-efficiency gas storage water heaters work much the same as standard gas storage water heaters but benefit from improved insulation, heat traps, and efficient burners.
• Gas condensing water heaters are similar to gas water heaters, but to increase efficiency heat from the combustion gases is transferred to the water instead of being vented outside.
• Whole-home gas tankless water heaters heat water similarly to standard gas water heaters. The big difference: they don’t have a storage tank. That means that water is heated only when you need it—a big energy saver over standard water heaters that lose energy during standby operation.
• Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH) technology uses liquid refrigerant to move heat from the surrounding air to the water in an enclosed tank rather than generating heat directly.
• Solar water heaters use the sun’s thermal energy to heat water and can be used alone or with a backup conventional water heating system. Learn about the different types of solar water heaters here, then make sure the one you ultimately choose has an ENERGY STAR label to guarantee even more savings.

Happy energy saving!

Until Monday,
The Home Know-It-All

Moving Big Furniture

I spent this past weekend moving to a new apartment, and boy, oh boy, was it hard work. By Sunday night I could barely lift my arms, let alone my eyelids. And I had help! Lots of it, thanks to some very loving family members!

It’s a good thing, too. I know I couldn’t have moved some of my more bulky furniture by myself, and it was a struggle to move a few pieces even with a pair of us lugging them. To make things a little easier on you when you move—and so I remember the lessons I learned this weekend—I’ve compiled a few tips on moving heavy furniture. 

1. Prepare. Take time to remove items from drawers, and, if possible, remove the drawers themselves before lifting dressers or nightstands. Remove cushions from chairs and sofas, and wrap delicate items like TVs in furniture pads, which can be rented from a local moving company.

2. Disassemble. If your desk, dresser, or nightstand can be taken apart to reduce the load, I’d recommend doing it—although I hope you don’t have to break out the saw like the folks mentioned in this article.

3. Measure. Don’t get stuck in a hallway or doorway because you didn’t check sizes. Measure the length, width, and depth of your items, as well as hallways, doorways, and elevators, to see if the furniture pieces fit in and through all necessary spaces.

4. Maneuver. Before lifting any items, decide your method of moving. With measurements in hand, determine which side of the item should enter a doorway first. For example, many couches can’t fit through a door upright. It’s often easier to place the couch on end and curl it around the entrance by sliding it at angles. If there will be more than one person moving an item, it’s also a good idea to discuss who will be leading, who will be following, and where breaks will be taken.

Moving up or down stairs? Discuss how you’ll position the furniture between flights and around corners. You may want to take more measurements of those areas.

5. Lift properly. Prevent back injuries and pulled muscles by lifting heavy furniture properly. FamilyDoctor.org can tell you how.

6. Thank the Lord for freight elevators. If you’re moving into an apartment that’s not on the first floor and you don’t have a freight elevator, I pity your poor, poor soul.

7. Purchase the Bigslider. Jeri Masterson invented this handy device when she was forced to move heavy items herself because her husband was away at work. Made of tough, durable plastic, the Bigslider ($24.95–$75.95) allows you to stack heavy items on top and slide them across concrete, carpet, wood, grass—you name it. If you plan on moving any furniture piece by yourself, this is the tool for you. Check out this video to see it in action.

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-All

Beautiful Blue

When I moved in to my current apartment a couple years ago, I had a few color options for my accent wall (which the maintenance team kindly painted for me free of charge): red, blue, green, orange, and brown. After much debate, I opted for blue—it seemed like the color that would best match my décor. Plus, it was the lightest option available, so I thought it would create the illusion of much-needed space.

As it turns out, I’m not alone in my thinking. When my city-dwelling friend, Bridget, and her husband, Travis, recently moved to a larger apartment in The Big Apple, they chose to paint the living room in their new apartment blue (see the pictures). They initially flirted with red and green, but in the end opted for blue because they figured it was a safe choice (this was their first foray into room painting), yet would still make a bold statement.

Once they settled on blue, Bridget and Travis decided to go all out with two shades of bright blue: A darker one for the accent wall and a lighter one for the rest of the walls. “I figured if were going to spend the time and money painting, we might as well make it really noticeable,” she says. And they’re quite happy with their decision: The energetic hues keep their living room feeling light and airy, and they look good with the oak and blond-wood furniture and white-painted trim.

If you’re pondering a blue decorating scheme, here’s how to make it work for you:

Boost your mood. An atmospheric hue affiliated with the sky and ocean, blue is associated with peace, tranquility, calm, stability, confidence, security, loyalty, truth, and cold, according to Apartment Therapy. This cool hue tends to have a calming, relaxing effect on people—especially the lighter shades (an overly dark blue may actually evoke feelings of sadness). That’s why it’s an ideal hue for serene spaces such as a bathroom or bedroom. Or any room, for that matter. Because it’s calming and rejuvenating, why not use blue in a room where people frequently gather? For example, the bright shades Bridget and Travis selected for their living room exude energy and playfulness—and that entices the couple to spend even more time there. “I love coming home from work and spending time in our apartment now. Even at night, the living area is so vibrant and happy feeling, and the blues make the area feel really open,” Bridget says.

Select the right shade. Navy, aqua, periwinkle, azure, robin’s egg, cerulean—the options are endless. And the specific shade you choose can really give a room distinct personality. As I mentioned above, bright blues such as cobalt or turquoise lend energy and zest. Pastel blues help a small room seem larger than it is. Deep blues such as navy impart a more formal, traditional look. Because they’re so rich, dark blues look best when used as an accent color or in patterns. This Whole Living article explains how to appropriately apply blue into your decorating scheme. For example, those of you who reside in a cool climate area are better off with a warmer shade of blue with a red undertone—if you go too pale, you might end up with something overly icy- or chilly-looking.

Color coordinate. Blue looks amazing on its own or with other shades of the same color (just see Bridget and Travis’s walls for proof—even though the paint is from the same color family, the accent wall still pops against the lighter blue walls). It also creates an alluring effect when paired with other colors. For an unexpected look, try blue and red—blue’s cool qualities and red’s rich, warm tones look striking together, and it’s an unexpected combo. Notice the red drapes in Bridget and Travis’s apartment—they draw the eye, yet are subtle enough so they don’t overpower the room. House to Home recommends adding small bright pink accents—such as fresh flowers—as an accent color (I love this idea!). Blue and yellow and blue and green also pair well together—read about how to do it tastefully here.

The shade of blue you pick affects coordinating colors—for example, bright cobalt blue looks best with equally bright hues like yellow. A lighter blue pairs well with other pastel hues. Want to know more? Hop on back to that Whole Living article I mentioned earlier.

For more inspiration, look no further than this Better Homes & Gardens photo gallery on decorating in blue.

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-All

How to Clean a Humidifier

If static is my enemy in colder months—and believe me, it is—then my humidifier is my best friend. Not only does it prevent my hair from frizzing out and my skin from flaking, but it also keeps my nose, throat, and lungs nice and moist.

Lou Manfredini, Ace Hardware’s Helpful Hardware Man, recommended a great sonic humidifier in this previous post, and it comes with a built-in filter to keep the vapor clean.

Even with a filter, humidifiers can collect mineral deposits without proper maintenance, causing more harm than good. They quickly breed bacteria and mold, which can be especially problematic for folks with allergies and asthma. They can also cause flu-like symptoms and even lung infections in healthy people if not cleaned regularly.

If you run your humidifier frequently, it’s wise to replace the water every day and clean it weekly. Both are fairly easy and quick to do. Plus, they can save you serious grief down the road.

Before cleaning, remember to unplug the unit—we’re not big fans of electrical shocks here at The Home Know-It-All. For cool-mist humidifiers, you’ll only need to remove the filter to get started, but if you run a warm-mist one, you’ll need to remove the filter and clean the heating element before disinfecting the container. To clean the heating element, pour undiluted white vinegar over it and let it sit for at least a half hour. Empty the vinegar and rinse the container with water. Then use a soft-bristled brush to scrub away in minerals that have deposited on it.

To disinfect the container and misting chamber, you can pour a mixture of bleach and water or three-percent hydrogen peroxide and water into the base and let it sit for at least a half hour. Follow that with pure water until the odor of bleach or peroxide has gone away. Then you should be good to go!

Remember to change your filter as often as the manufacturer recommends, if not sooner, and use only distilled, de-mineralized water. (Tap water has more minerals that can appear as white dust when vaporized, which can be harmful to your lungs.)

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-All

Prevent Freezing Pipes

Winter weather takes a toll on a number of things—your hair, your skin, your energy bills, and the roads. And even though you might not think about your home’s water pipes on a daily basis, they might be taking a hit from the frosty temperatures too.

That’s because water could freeze in the pipes, causing them to burst. When water freezes, it expands in the pipe and increases water pressure. And that puts undue pressure on the pipe, whether it’s made of metal or plastic. It’s like accidentally leaving a can of soda in the freezer overnight (or a 12-pack case of soda in your trunk in the middle of winter, as I very foolishly did last year). And size doesn’t matter here: Just an eighth-inch crack in a pipe can spew as much as 250 gallons of water, according to State Farm Insurance.

If you live in the south, don’t think for a minute you’re immune to frozen pipes. According to the Institute for Business and Home Safety, water pipes in southern climates may actually be more vulnerable because they’re often located in uninsulated areas such as attics or crawl spaces. Water pipes in northern climates are often located on the inside of the building insulation, where they’re better protected. But if you live up north, you’ll want to check for openings that could compromise your built-in pipe protection.

Regardless of where you live, here’s what you can do to winterize your water pipes:

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate around the pipes.
  
• Disconnect outside hoses and shut off the water supply to the outside faucet.
  
• Tightly seal openings near pipes so cold air can’t get to them—even the smallest air leak could cause problems.
• Insulate pipes in unheated areas—crawl spaces, attics, basements, and garages. Look for pre-slit foam rubber or fiberglass pipe insulation sleeves at your local hardware store—they easily snap in place over your pipes. The insulation should fit snugly.
• Wrap pipes with heat tape or thermostatically controlled heat cables. Just make sure that you’re using Underwriters Laboratories Inc.-certified products. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for installation and operation to prevent overheating.
• Let warm water drip from the faucet when the temperature gets especially cold. The slow trickle of water relieves the water pressure that accumulates when water freezes in the pipes.

Want to know more? Download this handy PDF from the Institute for Business and Home Safety. In addition to tips for preventing frozen pipes, it will also show you what steps to take if your pipes do freeze, and what precautionary measures you should take if you go on vacation.

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-All

Pet Hair Removal

I grew up with a toy poodle for a family pet, so shedding was never an issue—I could cuddle him without getting white fur all over my clothes. But that all changed when my honey adopted two adorable stray kittens—a brother and a sister. Suddenly I found pet hair everywhere—on the sofa, on the carpet, on our clothes, you name it. Heck, even though I don’t live with the cats, I still find stray black-and-white-striped hairs on my clothes at random moments.

I realize a few stray cat hairs every now and then is nothing compared to the piles of pet hair some of you with frequently-shedding pets face. It’s just a natural part of pet ownership. Luckily, you don’t have to live in a mountain of hair—there are easy ways to keep Fluffy and Fido’s shedding in check.

All you really need is a rubber glove—simply wet the glove and wipe it across your furniture to collect fur. A damp sponge or clothes-dryer fabric-softener sheet also do the trick. See these and other quick solutions here.

Proper grooming helps prevent shedding—brush your furry friends a few times each week for the best results. This routine is especially important for cats—regular brushing decreases hair-related health problems such as … you guessed it, hairballs. When the weather warms up, brush pets outside.

And vacuum regularly, doing a thorough job each time—don’t forget corners, crevices, and baseboards, where hair sneakily collects. That’s just one of the tips that Erin from Unclutterer recommends for tackling pet hair—which she endearingly calls “tumbleweeds.” See the rest here.

If you can’t leave the house without spotting hair on your clothes, keep a lint roller on hand. But if the problem persists even after you wash your clothes, consider using an animal-specific detergent, which breaks down hair and lint. Learn more about clothes care here.

What specific products do you use to tame pet hair?

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-Al

2009 All-America Selections

It might not seem like it, but there are lots of ways to suffice your green thumb in the midst of winter: growing indoor herbs, cultivating seeds from scratch indoors, and planning your spring garden.

The last one is especially important this time of year. Planning ahead—sketching your garden, gleaning ideas from garden magazines, thumbing through seed categories—helps ensure you score your best garden yet. And selecting plants is one of the best of the planning process. In addition to your favorite tried-and-true varieties, why not experiment with new plants this year? The All-America Selections (AAS) team recently unveiled their top new plant picks for 2009, many of which are edible. (And what could be better than home-grown produce?)

The 2009 AAS Winners are: Viola F1 ‘Rain Blue and Purple,’ Eggplant F1 ‘Gretel,’ Melon F1 ‘Lambkin,’ and Squash F1 ‘Honey Bear.’

If you’re into container gardening, make a statement with ‘Rain Blue and Purple.’ As its name suggests, this plant produces an abundance of colorful trailing blooms. But what makes ‘Rain Blue and Purple’ particularly special is that it naturally changes color from purple to white to purple and blue as it matures. Another bonus: It’s cold and heat tolerant. So if you live in the south, expect blooms during fall and winter. If you live in the north, you’ll likely see blooms in the spring and summer.

Waiting to savor the tasty results of your spring plantings can be challenging. If you’re patience is not one of your strong points, you’ll appreciate the ‘Gretel.’ ‘Gretel’ is a miniature, glossy white eggplant that can be harvested in 55 days when growing conditions are right. It boasts a sweet flavor, and its compact size (3 feet wide and tall) makes it conducive to container gardening.

‘Lambkin’ is another early-producing pick. It harvests earlier than other melons, producing more sweet, juicy fruits that are perfect for sharing with others. And because it’s a Christmas melon (meaning it ripens in the winter), it can be stored longer than other types of melon. The oval-shaped, mouthwatering ‘Lambkin’ weighs 2–4 pounds and has a thin rind.

I personally love the dark green hue of the ‘Honey Bear’ shell. But this award-winning acorn squash is perhaps best touted for its sweet flavor when cooked. Each squash weighs about a pound and feeds two people. Plus, you’ll also get more bang for your buck with this variety: Unlike many other acorn squash plants, ‘Honey Bear’ is resistant to powdery mildew, and therefore produces abundant fruit throughout the growing season.

Curious about last year’s AAS picks? Here’s a refresher. To see more up-and-coming plant varieties, check out the National Garden Bureau Inc.’s website.

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-All

Greener TV Buying

I’m the lucky owner of a brand new LCD TV. (Check it out here) And even though it’s only a 32-inch, I’m proud of it—not only because it saved me big bucks when I bought it but also because it’ll save more moolah when it comes to my electricity bill.

Sounds like the perfect Green Around the House Challenge for you if you ask me. Want to know why you should undertake it?

Bigger isn’t always better. Your TV should be no bigger than 40 inches. Any bigger, it’ll waste substantially more energy than a smaller size. Not to mention it takes more energy to produce.

LCD is the way to be. Both LCD and plasma TVs are made with icky nitrogen trifluoride, a chemical that contributes to global warming, and even though in a smaller size a plasma TV wastes only a sliver more energy than an LCD, the bigger you get the more energy a plasma wastes. LCD TVs, however, are available in smaller sizes, making them the lesser of the two evils and saving you up to $115 more per year to operate. But if you still have an old cathode ray tube hanging around, stick with it—it’s the greenest of all TVs.

ENERGY STAR® Approved. An ENERGY STAR ® TV uses 30 percent less energy than standard units. That’s why I made sure my shiny new one came with the approval. You can find it on most types of units.

Want more proof you should green your TV? Read what ENERGY STAR® and TreeHugger have to say.

Now go forth and conquer yet another Green Around the House Challenge. And when you get that TV, we can tell you how to mount it.

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-All

Flea Market Finds

Lately I’ve been obsessed with blogs like Daily Danny and Design*Sponge that teach you how to recreate a flea market find into a stunning interior-decorating masterpiece. Just check out some of these and you’ll be riproaring and ready to head to the flea market too.

Problem is when I’m at the thrift store, consignment shop, or what have you, I don’t see these “finds.” Sure, I see them, but I must not really see them, or I’d see the potential. You see?

The solution: I’ve put together a guideline that’ll help me spot these makeovers-waiting-to-happen. Here’s what I’ve come up with:

1. Find your shop. From garage sales to estate sales to even rental furniture outlets, there are lots of places to purchase pre-owned merchandise. But it’s not likely that all of these locations will suit your fancy. For some, the mere thought of the crowd and rows and rows of vendors at a flea market is enough to make them shudder. A rental furniture outlet’s quiet warehouse of no longer rentable furniture might make more sense. And if you hate the thought of bargaining at an estate sale, perhaps an online auction is more up your alley.

2. Educate yourself. If you’re in the market for a new dining room table, consult furniture stores to see what a new version goes for, and then check out Craigslist, eBay, or GoAntiques to learn the going-rate of used pieces and see what’s available. (Online shops are often a great place to start not only because they’re informative but also because listings are typically posted by the owner, cutting out the middleman and lowering the price.)

3. Dress Appropriately. In this case, think jeans and a t-shirt. If you go too dressy, you’ll be uncomfortable and a seller might increase his price because he thinks you can afford more. (It’s sad—but true!)

4. Get there early and come back late. At flea markets, auctions, and other day sales, the true bargains are often gone by the time 9 a.m. rolls around, so if you want to spot a true find, go early. Prices are often steeper in the morning, however, so be sure to check back later in the evening when the seller’s only choice is to sell it or haul it home.

5. Inspect. Think you’ve found a steal? Examine it from top to bottom before buying. Although it’s unlikely you’ll find a piece of furniture in mint condition, be sure the damage is something you’re able to repair affordably.  

6. Don’t limit yourself. Although in your head you know you need a TV stand, the piece of furniture you purchase doesn’t necessarily have to be a TV stand. Perhaps you repurpose an antique chair or end table to fit your needs instead. Make a list ahead of time of everything you need. When you spot something you think you like, consult your list to see where it could potentially work.

7. Avoid electronics. With the exception of lamps, which can easily be rewired, avoid anything fueled by electricity—unless you have the know-how to repair it.

8. Get inspired. Scour magazines, websites, and books for ideas. Home Envy has some great advice, as does the DIY Network. Flea Market Finds & How to Restore Them ($7.98) and Flea Market Style ($20.90) are both filled with tips and tricks on decorating with “found” objects. And, of course, it never hurts to look around you. Restaurants, shops, and others’ homes are fantastic motivators.

Let me know how it goes! And I’ll be sure to post any furniture makeovers of my own.

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-All

What We’re Loving: Wine Bottle Plant Nannies

It’s always the plant lover’s dilemma: how do you keep your plants looking their best when you’re out of town or too busy to water them as often as they require? I know it’s something I battle. And it’s something my mom, who travels frequently for work, struggles with too.

Oh, and have I mentioned, on what seems like a completely unrelated note, that we’re both fans of wine?

That’s why, when I saw the Wine Bottle Plant Nannies from Napa Style, I had to try them. So I ordered myself a set of four and another set for my mom’s stocking at Christmas.

The plant nannies are actually hollow terracotta stakes. Once you finish a particularly lovely bottle of wine, all you do is rinse the bottle out and refill it with water. Then you push the stake into the soil next to your potted plant and flip the bottle in place. As the plant gets thirsty, water soaking through the stakes is absorbed by the soil.

If your plants are small, this solution might not be the best option—a tiny plant would look strange dwarfed by a big empty wine bottle. With the right-size plant, however, it’s actually pretty cool.

Check them out for yourself. And while you’re on the site, take a moment to peruse Napa Style’s other home, garden, and kitchen products. You’ll find some terrific stuff!

Now, I want to know: What’s your foolproof technique for keeping your thirsty plants happy when you’re away? Leave a comment here so other readers can hear about your ideas too.

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-Al

Buying a Desk Chair

Remember awhile back when I was on the hunt for the perfect desk? Although I never found the perfect one, per se, I chose this one. So far, it works smashingly, and I adore the fact that it’s so easy to put together and take apart, which will be great when I make my big move to a different apartment in a couple of weeks. (Look for more posts on moving, painting, and decorating that apartment soon!)

Now that I’ve got my desk dilemma behind me, I’m faced with another conundrum: Where do I find a perfect desk chair? Currently, I’m using one from my dining room, which doesn’t cut it. It’s not on wheels, doesn’t swivel, and isn’t the right height—a mixture that creates a lot of headaches and back pain.

For optimal back support, here’s what I’m looking for:

Wheels. I want to be able roll smoothly from my computer to my printer and back again, and I don’t want to have to worry about the casters breaking or getting easily caught on carpet.

Armrests. I have long, gangly arms, and it’s nice to be able to relax them on an armrest once and awhile. Contoured and cushioned would be ideal. 

High backrest. Lumbar support is a necessity, so I’m looking for a backrest that supports and maintains the natural S-shape of my lower spine. To keep everything in the proper position, a chair that supports my shoulder blades is also nice. 

Adjustable height. When sitting, the soles of your feet should rest on the ground, so the chair height should adjust depending on my shoes. Plus, I want guests to be as comfy as possible using the chair as well.

Comfy seat. I’m not saying I want one of those plush seats that you sink into—in fact, those make it hard to maintain your spine position and can cause major back pain—but I do want one that feels nice. And it needs to be wide enough and long enough to fit all of my tush and thighs.

Want more proof that these qualifications are necessities? The Ergonomic Review lists “5 Important Factors in Finding a Good Ergonomic Desk Chair.”

Now I need your help. I’ve found a few chairs that meet my approval. Which do you vote for?

Ikea Jerrik Swivel Chair ($319). This one meets all of my stipulations—strong wheels, built-in lumbar support, adjustable height, armrests, cozy seat, and high backrests. Plus, I like the modern look. I couldn’t ask for anything more. Except, maybe, that the price be slashed in half.

Turnstone Let’s B ($399). Another pricey one, but it, like the previous chair, matches all of my desires. It also comes with a seat depth adjustment, so it would fit even the most long-legged individual. Plus, it’s available in green—my favorite color!

CB2 Surf Office Chair ($199). Although this one doesn’t offer all the necessary amenities—no comfy armrests—the price is a little more manageable, and I love the sleek lines and yellow color.

Target Sydney Office Chair ($159.99). This one may or may not offer lumbar support, and it has no armrests or snug seat. But it is cute! And maybe its curves would fit my body perfectly. This is definitely one that I’ll need to test drive before purchasing.

What’s your favorite? Have you spotted a more suitable option not listed here? 

Until Monday,
The Home Know-It-All

Choosing the Best CFLs

We here at The Home Know-It-All are big proponents of Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs). And it’s easy to see why: These gems use 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent bulbs and can last up to 10 times longer. Plus, you can save at least $30 in energy costs per year over the course of each bulb’s lifetime. (And who isn’t all for saving money right now?)

So you can imagine our surprise when we recently learned that not all CFLs are equal—even those bearing the Energy Star label. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), some CFLs have a lower mercury content than others, and some last longer than others, making them a better, safer lighting option.

Because mercury is something you don’t want to mess with—it can cause brain and kidney damage—EWG is pushing for lower mercury content in CFLs and believes product labels should disclose the specific mercury content in each bulb. Read all about EWG’s Lighten Up in ’09 campaign here.

Curious to see how your existing CFLs fare? EWG identified seven CFLs that outweigh the competition. These bulbs contain minimal mercury and last anywhere from 8,000 to 15,000 hours. Use this guide the next time you go shopping for light bulbs.

If your CFLs made the list, congrats. But if not, you don’t need to rid your house of them—any CFL is better than a standard incandescent bulb. Just make sure that you properly dispose of it at the end of its lifespan so harmful mercury vapor isn’t released. Earth911 explains how to safely recycle your spent bulbs. Should you happen to break a mercury-containing bulb, keep people and pets away and open a window. Then immediately follow these steps.

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-All

Seeing Red

Tomato. Fire engine. Crimson. Cherry. Cranberry. Merlot. Regardless of what shade you choose, decorating in red makes quite a statement. Red is bold and invigorating yet warm and welcoming. And it’s a versatile hue that can be used whether your style is decidedly country or cutting-edge contemporary.

Because it’s such a vibrant hue, I thought red would be the perfect color to kick off The Home Know-It-All’s new color series. Because color is a vital part of decorating, we’ll devote a blog post every once in a while to a specific hue. And if we happen to skip over a color you’re crazy about (or that you’re pondering for an upcoming project), let us know.

In the past, we’ve posted about the effects of color on your emotions. Ever the intense color, red generates energy, raises blood pressure, increases your heart rate, stimulates appetite (which is probably why it’s often used in kitchens and dining rooms), and exudes vitality. It’s also, of course, associated with anger.
Here’s what you might not know: Red may sharpen your memory, making it an ideal hue for a home office. A recent University of British Columbia study concluded that seeing red can make your work more accurate because it aids attention to detail. Read about the study here.

Ready to take the plunge with red? Here’s how to make the hue work for you.

Keep it simple. Red typically looks best when it’s applied in small doses—too much can feel overwhelming. That’s why it’s perfect for an accent wall or single piece of furniture—it rightfully remains the center of attention because it’s not competing with other elements. Or consider leaving your walls neutral and decorating with red furniture. Accessorize with small, tasteful accents such as red curtains, accent pillows, candles, artwork, picture frames, vases, and more.

Play with patterns. Bold red-and-white patterns—whether on wallpaper or accent pillows—add unexpected impact. Personally, I’m partial to damask or toile, but that’s the traditionalist in me. For a more modern example, see the punchy pattern in this kids’ room.For visual appeal, try mixing and matching a few patterns—just make sure to keep red as the unifying element that ties them together.

Team up. Red is a versatile color, and it plays surprisingly well with white, black, brown, green, blue—you name it. So well, in fact, that Designer Brian Patrick Flynn refers to red as “the bold neutral” in this all-about-red article. I use subtle hints of yellow and orange to accent my red-theme bedroom, because they keep the bright hue in check (and it reminds me of autumn, my favorite season).

So, tell me: How do you feel about red? What’s your favorite shade?

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-All

Easy Ways to Increase Accessibility

The benefits of creating a universally designed home are many. Children; women who are pregnant; individuals who use wheelchairs or canes; and anyone who might have arthritis, limited vision or hearing, or temporary injuries such as broken bones can easily visit or live in a home that has been universally designed.

To make your home truly accessible to everyone, you might widen doorways and hallways, lower countertop heights, and tear out all of the carpet in your rooms. But creating a warm, welcoming home that’s designed to accommodate anyone who lives there or visits doesn’t have to involve gutting your house or starting from scratch.

Consider these easy, relatively inexpensive ways of improving accessibility—most of which enhance the appearance of your home in the process.

• Get rid of unnecessary rugs—they can be tripping hazards.
• Rearrange furniture in your living spaces so it is easy to move around and through furniture groupings. While you’re at it, de-clutter your rooms so unnecessary “junk” doesn’t get in anyone’s way.
• Use contrasting colors to distinguish doorways from walls and furnishings from floorings. If you’re thinking about repainting, consider making trimwork pop by painting the walls a dark hue and the trimwork white. If it’s time for new furnishings, opt for colorful hues that contrast with light-colored flooring or vice versa.
• Enhance the lighting (and therefore the visibility) in each room by using a variety of lighting styles—including overhead lights and task lighting such as lamps. Want to learn more? Bone up on kitchen and bathroom lighting basics, and don’t forget the necessity of safely lighting challenging areas such as closets and entryways too.
• Install paddle switches in place of traditional light switches—they’re easier to turn on and off. Or, better yet, install motion-sensor light switches so you don’t have to do a thing to turn on the lights when you enter a room or turn them off when you leave.
• Replace doorknobs with lever handles, which are easier to open.
• Install pulls in place of small knobs, which can be difficult to grasp, on cabinet doors and drawers with pulls.
• Swap out double-handle faucets in kitchens and baths with single-handle models that can be turned on or off even if your hands are messy or if you have limited hand strength.
• Find space for a rolling cart, moveable island, or even a basic table that’s lower or higher than your kitchen countertops to accommodate height differences in your family. If there’s room, include a stool for sitting when you’re tackling cookie decorating or other time-consuming tasks.
• Place towel hooks or bars in the bathroom so they’re easy to reach from the sink and in the shower.
• Turn down the water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit—it prevents the risk of scalding from too-hot water (and saves energy too!).
• Install small, low-voltage lights along the walkway leading to your front door so guests know where to step.

These ideas barely scratch the surface of what you can do to make your home accessible for everyone. Looking for more great ideas? Check out these general pointers or these kitchen-specific ideas.

And while you’re at it, don’t forget to take a peek at the book the team behind The Home Know-It-All produced on this very topic. It’s called Universal Design Ideas for Style, Comfort & Safety and you can buy it here. (It’s not shameless self-promotion—we don’t get a penny from the sale! We just promise the book contains plenty of helpful information for creating a stylish, comfortable, and safe home. And you can’t beat that!)

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-All

Valentine’s Day Decorating

Whether you love it or hate it, Valentine’s Day is right around the corner.

And while I don’t necessarily appreciate the amped-up mushiness the holiday promotes (ick), I do enjoy casually decorating for it. Oh, and I especially love all the candy that goes on sale February 15. Conversation hearts, anyone?

But seriously, back to the decorating. Even if you’re not a huge fan of Valentine’s Day, who doesn’t need a festive pick-me-up by the time February rolls around? I do! But I certainly don’t go all out like I do for Halloween or Christmas—just a few accents of red and pink here and there. It takes the blah out of winter.

And I definitely don’t go overboard on spending, either. I just use items I already own or I head to Walgreen’s, Target, and other nearby retail stores for inexpensive, playful decorations. For example, there’s a great heart-theme tinsel garland set from Walgreen’s, perfect for draping over the top of my entertainment center. On my windows and mirrors, I’ve got a couple Valentine’s Day-theme Snoopy window clings. (Who doesn’t love Snoopy?) Atop my wine bar, I’ve got red champagne flutes and dessert cups from Christmas—it’s nothing major, of course, but see how easy transitional decorating can be?

And because I love cake stands, I made sure to put my white one in the holiday spirit by wrapping colorful paper and ribbon around it a la this suggestion from Better Homes and Gardens. And then I gave my votive candles a kick with this BHG idea (I used small glass beads rather than the little candies).

There’s not much too it, and it can be fun—just do as little or as much as you like. If you’re feeling particularly crafty, try these handmade decorations from Martha Stewart. Have kids? They’ll enjoy the holiday crafts on Kaboose. In the meantime, I’ll be busy mailing the dozens upon dozens of frosted heart-shaped sugar cookies I baked this weekend. Mmm.

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-All

Car Cleaning 101

Forgive me for a second while I proudly proclaim that it’s supposed to reach a balmy 52 degrees today where I live. Heat wave! And you know what that means: It’s the perfect time for a car wash. My car could definitely use it, seeing that it’s been below freezing for what feels like 10 years and my car hasn’t been cleaned for just as long.

I’m so excited that I’ve already mapped out my car-cleaning routine. And even though my wash won’t be perfect—there’s only so much sunlight left when I get off work, people—I encourage you to follow these I-can-see-my-reflection-in-the-hood pointers:

Give it a wash. This is the easiest part because you can just zip right through a carwash. Now if you’re a stickler for washing by hand with a hose, by all means, you’re more than welcome to do that, but unless you own a pressure washer, it’s not likely you’re getting your car as clean as possible. And to prevent rust and corrosion, you need to get all that grime off there. When your car is clean, moisture slips right off the shiny paint, but when dirt’s covering the surface, moisture gets trapped, causing corrosion.

My suggestion? Head to a coin-operated carwash and choose the basic wash. You can use the soap the carwash provides, or you can bring your own. (But never use dishwashing liquid or other household soaps on your car. Look for products specifically designed for cleaning vehicles.) Spray from the top down, being mindful to get places where dirt and salt could have accumulated—moldings, wheel arches, bumpers, and wipers.

As soon as you’re finished, get the plush towels and chamois out to dry.  (The Cobra Super Plus Deluxe 600 MicroFiber Towel, three for $29.99, is my first choice.) And don’t think for a second that you can just let your car air-dry. Water contains trace amounts of calcium and iron, which eat away at your paint job. Not to mention, water spots are pretty unsightly.

Wax on—Wax off. If you’re in a hurry, there’s nothing wrong with a quick wax at the car wash, but for the best coverage and shine, you should do it yourself at least twice a year. Start by applying a small amount of wax on your car in circular, overlapping motions; let it dry to a haze; and wipe it off with a soft terry-cloth towel. When you’re finished with your entire car, go back over it one more time, wiping in both clockwise and counterclockwise motions. To see how it’s done, watch this video.

Get at the interior. No car wash is complete without giving the interior a good scrub. Start by throwing away any fast-food wrappers, paper cups, or other trash that’s accumulated in your car. Remove your floor mats, give them a good shake, and set them aside. Next, break out the vacuum. (You may need to go to a carwash for a coin-operated vacuum if you don’t have one that reaches outdoors.) Suck up all that dirt, rock, and salt that’s accumulated inside since the last time you vacuumed—whenever that was. Then give your floor mats a sweep.

You can use lint-free towels and water to clean your dash and controls, or you can use cleaners specifically designed for a car’s interior. (Read the labels carefully to make sure it’s safe on all interior types.) I usually keep a container of Armor All’s Cleaning Wipes in my car to wipe up dust as I see it.

For cleaning windows, most car-care experts recommend avoiding any cleaners that contain ammonia. Although you may not know it, it’s likely your windows have a tinted film over them, and the ammonia can damage it. You can use water or a window cleaner made just for vehicles—like this one from Armor All.

Wheel wash. Most of the time you can get your tires pretty clean with just soap and water, but if you think they need it, you can spray them with a tire cleaner like Armor All’s Extreme Tire Shine Spray. To keep them looking nice, you can also cover them with a tire protectant.

Well, I’m off to bask in the glorious sunlight—and pray the cold weather is gone forever.

Oh, and thanks to Teresa, one of our dedicated readers, for recommending that we cover this topic!

Until Monday,
The Home Know-It-All

Snow Removal Made Easier

Groundhog’s Day occurred earlier this week, and good ol’ Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow. And you know what that means: We’re in for six more long weeks of winter. Ick. Sick of shoveling, but not ready to invest in a snow blower? Clear your driveways and sidewalks faster and easier with these smart variations on the standard shovel:

Sno Wovel. We’ve mentioned the Sno Wovel ($119.95) before on The Home Know-It-All, and for good reason. Although it looks like a contraption from the olden days, there’s nothing old about it. It’s got a unique 36-inch wheel that helps glide the shovel, making it three times faster than traditional shoveling. And it’s super easy to handle, so you can kiss back pain goodbye. If that wasn’t reason enough to put your standard shovel down, an independent study by the University of Massachusetts concluded that using a Wovel can reduce overall body exertion by as much as 80 percent.

Here’s how it works: As you move forward, you push down on the handle. That action raises the blade and sends your snow flying. This wheeled wonder is so popular that it even earned a spot on Time magazine’s Best Inventions of 2006 list. If you invest in a Wovel, be sure to check out the product website, where you’ll find tips for efficiently using the device based on the type of snowfall you have.

Snow Scoop. This oversized device gives you shoveling’s exercise benefits without the back strain. The SnoWonder Snow Scoop from T-J Gas Company ($99.95) features a long metal handle and wide fiberglass scoop that sits directly on the concrete but easily glides over hard surfaces. When you’re ready to release the snow, simply push, tug, or dump the scoop. If you’ve got a small driveway, or don’t receive much snowfall, consider the smaller version of the Snow Scoop, which rings up at $89.95.

Toro Lightweight Electric Power Shovel. Like the other two shovel alternatives I’ve mentioned, the Toro Lightweight Electric Power Shovel ($99.00 at select Ace Hardware stores and available on line at www.acehardware.com) doesn’t burn gas, making it an eco-friendly choice. Because it runs on a zippy 7.5-amp motor, I consider it a “shovel with a kick.” Other features? It’s got a 12” clearing width, 20’ throwing distance, and it can remove 300 pounds of snow per minute. Plus, this baby is lightweight (13.5 pounds) and compact, so it fits easily in the garage or wherever else you’d put it.

See? Who says you can’t have fun with snow removal?

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-All

Battling Backsplash Blues

If you read The Home Know-It-All very often, you’ve probably heard about my lovely salmon-hued backsplash tiles. They’re ugly. But I don’t have the cash to rip those babies out and redo the walls, so I’m stuck with them for now.

Or am I?

I was reading dispatches from the International Builders’ Show on the Consumer Reports Home & Garden Blog and came across mention of ACP’s Aspect Metal Tiles. So I decided to check them out.

It turns out that all you have to do to apply the 3x6-inch tiles is prime your wall (even if it’s tile!), then peel the tiles off their backing and stick them in place. The tiles are available in three colors: brushed stainless, brushed copper, and brushed bronze. According to the manufacturer, they’re made from a solid-polymer core covered with two-sided aluminum sheets—and they’re made from 60 percent recycled material, which earns them bonus points in my book.

As you’ll see if you visit the product website, you can also use the tiles all over the place—on a fireplace surround, on cabinets, you name it.

The tiles are available directly from the manufacturer and will be sold nationwide at Lowe’s by this summer.

By the way, if you’re looking for more backsplash ideas, how about installing your own tile backsplash like my parents did? Or bone up on backsplash basics.

Another great idea I was reminded of this weekend: If your backsplash is bare (read: not covered in tile like mine) why not add a coat or two of magnetic paint and adorn it with magnetic picture frames, spice jars, and the like? Functional, fun, and sure to cure the backsplash blues!

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-All

Green Bedding Basics

Although many folks would argue it’s still not enough, we snooze more than a third of our lives away. That’s a lot of time in bed! So it makes sense that we look for bedding that’s comfortable and durable. Thankfully, we’ve pretty much got you covered in that department. (Visit Buying Bedding Basics and Bed Pillow Buying Guide to refresh your memory.) But there’s something more important than those two qualifications, and it’s essential to your health.

Your bedding should also be organic. We’ve already stressed the importance of an organic mattress, but experts agree that your sheets, pillow, and comforter should also be natural.

Icky pesticides and fertilizers are sprayed on cotton crops, tainting our environment and causing your cotton covers to off-gas—or release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are known to cause allergies, asthma, and even cancer. If that’s not enough to cause you to toss your unnatural sheets, consider this: Non-organic fibers are often harvested overseas, where no fair-labor laws exist. On top of that, once the bedding is made, it’s often coated in formaldehyde—a probable carcinogen—to minimize wrinkling.

To ensure your covers pass the natural test, look for “organic” cotton, which means the fiber was produced without pesticides or genetic engineering. (“Green” cotton isn’t necessarily organically grown, but it is cheaper, making it the next best option.)  Pesticide-free wool is another alternative, and because it’s a breathable fabric, it’s a good choice for warm sleepers. However, you should avoid polyester, which is largely made of non-renewable petroleum.

Here are a few suggestions:

Comforter
Try: Natura Organic Wool Comforter ($352.50-$535.00); Organic Inspirations Organic Cotton/Wool Comforter ($320.00-$470.00); or EcoBedroom Natural Pure-Grow Wool Comforter ($324.00-$462.00).

Sheets
Try: Native Organic Cotton Sheets ($120.00-$180.00); White Lotus Organic Cotton Sheets ($150.00-$285.00); or Sage Creek Organic Jersey Sheet Set ($105.00).

Pillow
Try: Wheat Dreamz Buckwheat Pillow ($40.00-$50.00), Abundant Earth Organic Cotton/Wool Pillow ($29.95-$65.95), Natura Organic Wool Pillow ($79.99-$117.99).

For more eco-bedding options, visit EVO’s site.

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-All

A Decorating Magazine Memorial

The current economy is taking its toll on many things—and the decorating world isn’t an exception. Sadly, it seems like some of our favorite home-related magazines are dropping like flies lately. So we thought it was time to take a break from our DIY projects for a moment so that we could pause and honor our fallen favorites.

Domino
The most recent magazine to bite the dust, this high-end shelter pub produced by Condé Nast was created for busy, style-focused folks who swoon over colorful decorating ideas and the advice of world-class designers.

Country Home
This one was particularly hard for us to say goodbye to, since many of our friends were among the current and former editorial staff at the time it folded. Plus, it didn’t matter whether you lived in the city or country—this lifestyle magazine offered terrific images and ideas about antiques, decorating, weekend projects, and more.

Blueprint
This baby had a short shelf life, which is sad because it had potential! Called a “fresh, fun guide to personal style” for twenty- and thirty-something women, it never quite gained the following Martha Steward Living Omnimedia thought it would.

O at Home
The spinoff of O, The Oprah Magazine featured plenty of Oprah’s friends’ cribs and the same energy that people love about the original pub, but it wasn’t enough to sustain this quarterly magazine.

Home
We didn’t spend as much time with this one, but apparently Hachette Filipacchi Media’s attempt to reposition it with a focus on home remodeling fell flat.

House & Garden
This baby had a long history and although it was a bit high-end (OK, a lot high-end) for our budgets, it was still fun to ogle over each issue. (The sad thing is that when you go to their website, it directs you to the Domino website since House & Garden folded. Oops! Now where will they send readers?)

Cottage Living
We might not own cottages, but we still enjoyed taking a peek at the pages of this Time Inc. magazine geared toward rustic-minded homeowners.

Now, some of these pubs still have online content that’s worth checking out. But as we all know, that’s not quite the same as being able to fawn over slick magazine pages and tear out the ideas you absolutely must hold onto. Sniff.

What great, gone titles did I miss? Share your thoughts here!

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-All