Gage Maxwell

Get ready to light up the holiday season with some dazzling ideas for your home decorations! In this article, we will guide you through a variety of holiday lighting installation ideas that will make your house shine bright and create a festive atmosphere. Whether you prefer classic designs or want to go for something unique and creative, we’ve got you covered.

From traditional string lights to colorful LED displays, you will discover a range of options to transform your home into a winter wonderland. We will also explore how you can incorporate technology into your decorations, taking your holiday lighting to the next level.

But it’s not just about the aesthetics; safety and energy efficiency are important considerations too. We will provide you with some valuable tips to ensure that your lighting installations are both safe and energy-efficient.

So, get ready to unleash your creativity and make your home the talk of the town with these holiday lighting installation ideas. Let’s shine bright this holiday season!

Classic Holiday Lighting Designs

If you’re looking for timeless and elegant holiday lighting designs, look no further than these classic ideas. Transform your home into a winter wonderland with strands of twinkling white lights. Wrap them around your banister, drape them along your porch, and hang them from your trees. Add a touch of sophistication with golden candle-shaped lights in your windows. These classic designs will create a warm and inviting atmosphere for all to enjoy.

Creating a Winter Wonderland

Transform your backyard into a magical winter wonderland with enchanting lighting arrangements.

• Hang icicle lights from tree branches, creating the illusion of glistening ice.
• Place LED snowflake projectors on the ground, projecting delicate snowflakes onto your house.
• Wrap fairy lights around the trunks of your trees, illuminating them like mystical creatures of the forest.

With these stunning lighting ideas, your backyard will become a whimsical escape, perfect for creating unforgettable winter memories.

Unique and Creative Light Displays

Adorn your backyard with distinctive and imaginative light displays to create an ambiance that is both captivating and unforgettable. Want to impress your neighbors and bring holiday cheer to your outdoor space? How about hanging glowing orbs from tree branches or creating a mesmerizing pathway with LED strip lights? For a touch of whimsy, install a light-up canopy of twinkling stars or create a stunning light show with synchronized music. The possibilities are endless!

Incorporating Technology into Your Decorations

Get ready to take your decorations to the next level by incorporating technology into your outdoor space. Transform your home into a dazzling display of lights with programmable LED strips that can be synchronized to music. Create a mesmerizing effect with projection mapping, where images and animations are projected onto your house. Add a touch of magic with smart lights that can be controlled through your smartphone, allowing you to change colors and patterns with a simple tap.

Tips for Safety and Energy Efficiency

Enhance the ambiance of your outdoor space while keeping your loved ones safe and saving energy with these valuable tips.

• Install LED lights: LED lights are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and produce less heat compared to traditional incandescent lights.
• Use timers: Set timers to automatically turn on and off your holiday lights, ensuring they are only running when needed.
• Inspect electrical connections: Regularly check for frayed wires or damaged sockets to prevent electrical hazards.

Conclusion

Now that you have explored a variety of holiday lighting installation ideas, it’s time to let your creativity shine bright! Whether you opt for classic designs, create a winter wonderland, or go for unique and creative displays, the possibilities are endless. Don’t forget to incorporate technology into your decorations for an extra wow factor. And always remember to prioritize safety and energy efficiency by following our helpful tips. Get ready to dazzle your neighbors and spread holiday cheer with your stunning light display!

Water damage can have debilitating effects on both residential and commercial properties. From structural concerns to potential health hazards, the aftermath is often overwhelming. Especially in areas like Hunterdon, NJ, where specific challenges related to water damage prevail, understanding prevention and restoration becomes crucial. This article delves into the impacts of water damage and restoration strategies for water damage Hunterdon NJ.

Understanding the Ramifications of Water Damage

Water damage is more than just an inconvenience. It silently wreaks havoc, destabilizing foundations, damaging possessions, and even posing health risks.

Here’s a closer look at the aftermath of water damage:

• Structural Degradation: Water damage’s immediate and most noticeable effect is its impact on structures. Water can weaken foundational elements, deteriorate walls, and compromise the integrity of floors. Over time, this can lead to potentially catastrophic failures if not addressed promptly.
• Mold and Mildew Growth: Damp, water-soaked environments are prime breeding grounds for mold and mildew. These fungi can lead to health issues, such as respiratory problems, allergies, and skin irritations.
• Electrical Hazards: Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. Water damage increases the risk of electrical hazards, from short circuits to potential fires, especially if water reaches outlets or internal wiring.
• Personal Property Loss: Beyond structural damage, personal items, including furniture, electronics, and important documents, can be adversely affected or entirely destroyed by water.
• Financial Strain: Without adequate insurance or preventative measures, the cost of repairs, replacements, and restorations due to water damage can be daunting.

Prevention is Key to Minimizing Water Damage

Water damage in Hunterdon, NJ, can arise from various sources, such as flooding, plumbing issues, or even humidity. Prevention strategies paramount to preventing this include:

• Regular Inspections: Regularly inspecting plumbing, roofs, and basements can preempt potential sources of water intrusion.
• Seal and Insulate: Ensure that windows, doors, and roofs are well-sealed. Adequate insulation, especially in basements, can prevent seepage.
• Landscape Wisely: Grade your property to lead water away from the foundation. Consider installing rain gutters and downspouts to direct rainwater away from the structure.
• Install Sump Pumps: Particularly relevant for water damage Hunterdon NJ, having a sump pump in basements can prevent water accumulation during heavy rains or floods.
• Stay Informed: Given Hunterdon’s specific challenges, residents should stay updated on local weather forecasts and be prepared for adverse conditions.

Restoration After Water Damage

When disaster strikes and leaves behind its scars, the next critical step is rebuilding and healing. Restoration isn’t just about mending what’s broken; it’s about reclaiming normalcy and ensuring safety.

Here is what prompt and effective restoration looks like:

• Immediate Assessment: Engage professionals specializing in water damage Hunterdon NJ to assess the extent of damage and recommend action plans.
• Water Extraction: Removing excess water as quickly as possible minimizes damage and speeds up restoration.
• Drying and Dehumidifying: Professional services often use specialized equipment to dry affected areas, reducing the risk of mold growth.
• Sanitization: Given the potential contamination of floodwater, sanitizing affected areas is essential to ensure a safe living or working environment.
• Repairs and Replacements: Structural elements, walls, or flooring may require repair or replacement. Engaging with specialists ensures quality restoration that lasts.

Conclusion

Water damage poses unique challenges. However, with an informed approach to prevention and a commitment to swift and effective restoration, homeowners and businesses can minimize risks and ensure the longevity of their properties. Leveraging experts specializing in water damage can make all the difference in navigating the aftermath and restoring normalcy.

Each year, the interior design community reflects on the changes that occurred within the industry. This includes reviewing developing trends, analysing shifts in preference, and predicting the aesthetics that are likely to define the next year.

One particularly important activity is to recognise which aesthetic trends are no longer in fashion. Since some interior design trends can occasionally be unexpected or outstay their welcome, seeing certain trends being left behind can bring a great deal of joy, making way for vibrant and interesting new styles.

As we approach the end of 2023, here are five of the most popular aesthetics that interior designers are very glad to see becoming less popular.

Beige, Grey, and Greige

Cool shades and tones are no longer being seen as refined but are, instead, a style now associated with dullness. Interior aesthetics that are built around these muted and understated colour schemes are being referred to as cold and shallow, with a developing preference for bold and vibrant maximalism replacing them in favour.

A significant part as to why these colours are disappearing relatively quickly is because of the upkeep they require. Beige furniture, for example, isn’t always accommodating of a hectic lifestyle, especially with children and pets, requiring constant upkeep.

Invisible And Floating Shelves

Modern aesthetics are generally disappearing, being swapped for vintage and more natural styles. A great example of this is the invisible or floating shelf. These designs are a part of the minimalism movement, seeking to obscure unnecessary details and create a refined living space. However, the tide is now turning, and residents want a more comfortable and detailed space that expresses their personality.

Gardens For Living

Trimmed lawns are out, abundant vegetable patches and log cabins are in. This is because residents are becoming more affectionate toward gardens and want to embrace the beauty of nature, transforming these outdoor spaces to become useful, so that they can be enjoyed more often and all year round.

Expect to see a greater degree of wild and interesting garden designs with some even treating their outdoor space as a smallholding opportunity. This means a growing increase in the number of gardens that house features like beehives and chicken coops.

Regal Decor

Almost as quickly as it appeared, the embellished and bespoke style of regency and regal interiors is disappearing. Whether they simply became too expensive to maintain or required a frustrating amount of upkeep (see the maintenance required for chandeliers!) these designs are now being replaced by more lo-fi and cosy alternatives.

Open Living Spaces

Knocking down as many walls as structurally possible in a home is no longer the way to go. Instead, homeowners are finally beginning to once again embrace the division and compartmentalisation of properties. This is partly because, with an increased culture of working from home, residents are requiring a degree of separation to ensure that they can keep their work lives and personal lives separate when occupying the same space.

Building a new home is a significant milestone, representing the culmination of dreams, efforts, and investments. However, the process can be complex and challenging, potentially giving rise to major problems that can lead to delays, increased costs, and compromised quality. To ensure a successful and stress-free home construction journey, it is essential to implement a comprehensive approach that encompasses careful planning, effective communication, thorough research, and prudent decision-making. Soon you will be celebrating your new home with Pinot Noir wine and good friends. In this article, we will delve into the key strategies that can help you avoid major problems when building a new home.

1. Start with Meticulous Planning

The foundation of a successful home construction project is a well-thought-out plan. Before embarking on any construction activities, take the time to create a detailed plan that outlines your objectives, budget, timelines, and design preferences. Collaborate with architects, designers, and contractors to align your vision with the practical aspects of construction. Be sure to account for all the necessary permits, approvals, and legal requirements before breaking ground. A comprehensive plan acts as a roadmap that minimizes the likelihood of costly changes and unexpected hiccups down the line.

2. Choose Reputable Professionals

Selecting the right professionals for your project is crucial. Seek recommendations, review portfolios, and conduct interviews to ensure you hire experienced architects, contractors, engineers, and designers. Building strong relationships with reputable professionals can greatly reduce the risk of misunderstandings and miscommunication that often lead to major problems during construction. Effective collaboration and expertise contribute significantly to the overall success of your project.

3. Set a Realistic Budget

One of the most common causes of problems during home construction is a budget that doesn’t align with reality. It’s important to set a realistic budget that accounts for all costs, including materials, labor, permits, fees, and unexpected expenses. Consult with financial advisors and construction experts to ensure your budget covers potential contingencies. Avoid cutting corners to save money, as this can lead to subpar construction and increased costs in the long run.

4. Communication is Key

Open and transparent communication among all stakeholders is fundamental to a smooth construction process. Regularly communicate with your design and construction teams, addressing any concerns or changes promptly. Miscommunication or assumptions can result in errors that can have costly consequences later. Foster an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing information and seeking clarification, helping to prevent misunderstandings and disputes.

5. Conduct Thorough Research

Knowledge is power, and conducting thorough research can equip you with the information needed to make informed decisions. Research materials, construction techniques, and design elements to understand their pros and cons. This knowledge empowers you to make well-informed choices that align with your goals and budget. Additionally, researching local building codes and regulations ensures that your project adheres to legal requirements, avoiding potential pitfalls.

6. Regular Site Inspections

Frequent site inspections are crucial to identifying and addressing issues early on. Engage with your construction team and make regular visits to the site to assess the progress and quality of work. Timely identification of any deviations from the plan allows for swift corrective action, reducing the likelihood of major problems arising later in the construction process.

7. Quality Over Shortcuts

Opting for quality over shortcuts is a principle that can significantly impact the outcome of your home construction project. While it may be tempting to cut costs by using cheaper materials or compromising on construction techniques, this often results in long-term problems that necessitate costly repairs. Prioritize durable materials and skilled craftsmanship to ensure your new home stands the test of time.

8. Embrace Flexibility

Flexibility is essential in the ever-evolving landscape of home construction. Delays due to weather, unforeseen challenges, or changes in your preferences can arise. Embrace a flexible mindset and be prepared to adapt to these changes. A well-structured plan should have built-in buffers for such contingencies.

9. Document Everything

Maintain comprehensive documentation throughout the construction process. This includes contracts, permits, design plans, change orders, and communication records. Having a clear record of all transactions and discussions can help prevent misunderstandings and disputes, providing a solid foundation for resolving any issues that may arise.

10. Regular Project Meetings

Schedule regular project meetings with your construction team to review progress, discuss any concerns, and ensure everyone is on the same page. These meetings provide a forum for addressing potential problems before they escalate and for fostering a collaborative atmosphere.

In conclusion, building a new home is a multifaceted endeavor that requires careful planning, effective communication, and well-informed decision-making. By following these key strategies, you can significantly mitigate the risk of major problems during the construction process. A successful home construction journey involves not only constructing a physical structure but also building a strong foundation of collaboration, research, and quality that will provide comfort and satisfaction for years to come.

Water damage can strike unexpectedly, causing significant disruptions to homes and businesses in Keller, TX. It can be triggered by various factors such as burst pipes, severe storms, or plumbing issues, leading to potential structural damage, mold infestations, and costly repairs if not dealt with promptly. The comprehension of the water damage restoration process becomes imperative for both homeowners and business owners as it facilitates a quick and efficient recovery from water-related calamities. This blog will delve into the essential steps of water damage restoration Keller TX, and explore how professionals adeptly handle this demanding task.

Step 1: Emergency Contact and Assessment

The first step in any water damage restoration process is to immediately contact a reputable water damage restoration company in Keller, TX. Trained professionals will respond promptly and begin the assessment process. They will inspect the affected areas to determine the extent of the water damage and identify potential safety hazards.

Step 2: Water Removal and Extraction

Once the assessment is complete, the water damage restoration Keller TX team begins the water removal and extraction process. They utilize advanced equipment, such as powerful pumps and industrial-grade wet/dry vacuums, to efficiently extract water from the premises. This step holds paramount importance in preventing any additional damage and preparing the affected areas for thorough drying.

Step 3: Drying and Dehumidification

After water removal, the restoration experts focus on drying and dehumidifying the affected spaces. Specialized dehumidifiers and high-velocity air movers are strategically placed to expedite the drying process. These professionals use moisture detection equipment to monitor progress continually, ensuring that all areas affected by water are thoroughly dried to prevent mold growth and structural issues.

Step 4: Cleaning and Sanitization

Water damage often brings along debris, contaminants, and unpleasant odors. The restoration team will thoroughly clean and sanitize the affected areas, using appropriate antimicrobial treatments to eliminate any harmful bacteria or microorganisms. This step ensures that the indoor environment is safe and healthy for occupants.

Step 5: Restoration and Repairs

Upon completing the thorough drying, cleaning, and sanitization of the property, the restoration process progresses to its final stage, where skilled professionals step in. Their expertise comes into play as they work meticulously to repair and restore any damaged structures, including walls, floors, ceilings, and electrical systems.

Step 6: Preventative Measures and Recommendations

Water damage restoration experts in Keller, TX, don’t just stop at repairing the visible damage. They often provide valuable insights into preventing future water-related incidents. This could involve suggesting waterproofing measures, improving drainage systems, or offering maintenance tips to safeguard against potential water damage risks.

Conclusion

Water damage restoration Keller TX is a complex and time-sensitive process that requires the expertise of trained professionals, where unexpected water-related disasters can occur, understanding the water damage restoration process is crucial for a swift and effective recovery. By contacting a reputable water damage restoration company promptly, homeowners and business owners can minimize the impact of water damage and restore their properties to a safe and habitable state.

In the aftermath of water damage, immediate action is crucial to prevent further destruction and restore your property back to its pre-damaged condition. This article explores the essential steps involved in water restoration, from assessing the extent of damage to preventing future incidents.

When faced with water damage, it is vital to assess the full scope of destruction. This involves identifying affected areas and determining the severity of the damage. Once established, prompt removal of standing water becomes paramount. By utilizing specialized equipment, professionals can efficiently extract excess moisture and minimize potential harm caused by prolonged exposure.

Following this initial step, drying and dehumidifying the affected area are necessary to prevent mold growth and structural deterioration. Repairing and restoring damaged structures should then be undertaken promptly to ensure a safe living environment.

Finally, taking preventative measures against future water damage is crucial for long-term protection. By implementing strategies such as regular inspections and maintenance, homeowners can safeguard their property from recurring incidents.

This comprehensive guide will equip readers with valuable insights on how to successfully recover from water damage while also emphasizing proactive measures for prevention.

Assessing the Extent of Damage

Now, let’s take a closer look at how we can assess the extent of water damage in your home.

The first step is to carefully inspect the affected areas, such as walls, floors, and ceilings. Look for visible signs of water stains, discoloration, or mold growth.

Additionally, use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to identify hidden water pockets and dampness.

This thorough assessment will help determine the necessary restoration steps for your property.

Removing Standing Water

First, you’ll need to roll up your sleeves and start getting rid of that standing water. It’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage. Here are some steps to help you remove the water effectively:

• Use a wet/dry vacuum to suck up the water.
• Use buckets or a sump pump if the amount of water is too large for a vacuum.
• Open windows and doors to improve air circulation.
• Consider using dehumidifiers or fans to speed up the drying process.

Remember, safety should always be your top priority.

Drying and Dehumidifying the Area

To effectively dry and dehumidify the area, you’ll want to maximize air circulation by opening windows and doors. This will help in removing excess moisture from the room. Additionally, using fans or dehumidifiers can speed up the drying process.

It’s important to make sure that all wet materials are completely dried to prevent mold growth. Regularly monitoring the humidity levels in the room is also crucial for successful drying and dehumidifying.

Repairing and Restoring Damaged Structures

You can start repairing and restoring the damaged structures by assessing the extent of the destruction, which may feel overwhelming at first.

Begin by identifying any structural damage, such as weakened walls or floors.

Next, remove any debris or water-damaged materials that cannot be salvaged.

Once the area is cleared, make necessary repairs to restore the structural integrity. This may involve replacing damaged drywall, reinforcing supports, or fixing any plumbing or electrical systems affected by the water damage.

Preventing Future Water Damage

Don’t let future water damage rain on your parade – take proactive measures to protect your home! One effective way is to regularly inspect and maintain your gutters and downspouts. Ensure they are clear of debris and redirect water away from the foundation. Additionally, consider installing a sump pump in vulnerable areas such as basements. Lastly, invest in a quality waterproofing system for your basement walls and floors.

Preventive Measures	Benefits
Regular gutter cleaning	Prevents water overflow
Redirecting downspouts	Protects foundation
Installing a sump pump	Removes excess groundwater

Conclusion

In conclusion, water restoration is a crucial process in recovering from water damage. By assessing the extent of damage, removing standing water, and drying and dehumidifying the area, individuals can ensure that their property is restored to its pre-damaged state.

Repairing and restoring damaged structures is another important step in the water restoration process. This may involve repairing walls, floors, and other affected areas to prevent further damage and make the property safe and habitable again.

Preventing future water damage is also a key aspect of water restoration. This may include identifying and fixing the source of the water damage, such as a leaky pipe or roof, and taking steps to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future.

Prompt action and professional expertise are essential in mitigating further harm. It is important to contact a water restoration Oak Harbor company as soon as possible after water damage occurs to ensure that the restoration process begins quickly and efficiently.

With proper restoration techniques in place, individuals can regain peace of mind and protect their property from future water-related issues. Water restoration is a comprehensive process that requires attention to detail and a commitment to restoring the property to its pre-damaged condition.

White walls are a timeless choice for home interior designs. They create a sense of brightness, airiness, and spaciousness in any room. White also goes with almost any colour scheme and furniture style. From creating classic interiors to modern minimalist looks, white goes with anything. Moreover, white can be paired with almost all colours to create unique wall designs in your living rooms and bedrooms.

Here are five reasons why white walls are the best for your home interior designs:

1 They Can Make a Space Look Larger

White walls open up a room, making it look larger and more spacious. This is especially important for smaller homes or apartments that lack the space of larger properties. White walls also reflect natural light, which further adds to the illusion of increased space. This makes white a great option for creating the illusion of a larger space in your home. In addition, white walls also provide a clean, classic look to any room. Whether you’re looking for a serene and calming atmosphere or a bright, modern look, white walls can provide the perfect backdrop.

2 They’re Simple and Timeless

White walls offer a timeless look that never goes out of style. They’re also incredibly easy to work with, since they tend to go with just about any wall colour combination. That means white interiors never go outdated or out of fashion. You can pair them with bold statement colours like yellow or blue to create eye-catching contrasts or you can use muted tones like grey and beige for a more subtle effect.

3 They’re Versatile

White walls are incredibly versatile and easy to customize. You can apply different finishes to create unique textures and effects or use different wall colour combinations with white for a completely new look. There are endless possibilities when it comes to creating your own unique space with white walls. White walls can be used in a variety of interior design styles, from traditional to modern and everything in between.

4 They Don’t Steal the Show

White walls won’t overpower the other elements in a room. They instead help to bring out their best features. Whether you want to highlight a piece of art or draw attention to statement furniture, white walls will provide the perfect backdrop for any room. You can also use white walls to create a subtle contrast with bolder colours and patterns, helping to make them stand out more. White walls are incredibly easy to pair with any accessory or furnishing, making them a great choice for creating classic interiors to modern minimalist looks.

5 They’re Great for Layering

White walls are the perfect blank canvas for layering different textures, colours, and patterns. You can use them to create a monochrome look or add pops of colour for a more vibrant effect. In addition, you can also use wallpapers and other decorative elements to completely transform a white wall into something unique and original. White walls are also incredibly easy to work with, which makes them great for experimentation and exploration of different design looks.

Altogether white walls are a timeless choice for home interior designs, offering an airy, spacious feel, without stealing the show from other elements. They’re also incredibly versatile and easy to customize, allowing you to create unique looks with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a classic look or something more modern, white interiors are perfect to experiment with.

Even the tidiest homes need a thorough cleaning. Use these room-by-room tips to get yours looking like new.

We talked to house cleaning Dallas professionals for their favorite tips to help you clean more efficiently. Whether you’re deep cleaning or just doing some maintenance, these expert tricks will make the job much easier.

1. Set a Schedule

If you want to get your home clean on a regular basis, it’s time to make a cleaning schedule. “It’s important to look at your available time and figure out how much you can comfortably fit in each week,” explains professional organizer Wendy Silberstein, founder of The Aesthetic Organizer, as quoted by Woman’s Day.

You should also consider how many rooms you can realistically keep up to your standards all week. For example, if you have just two essential rooms that need to be consistently tidy, focus on them daily, then work on the other spaces in your home from most to least important.

It’s a good idea to try your new cleaning schedule for at least a month before making any changes. This will give you valuable insight into how well it works for your home.

2. Make a List

When it comes to cleaning, there are a lot of things that can go wrong. That’s why it’s important to make a list of all the things you need to do. This will ensure that you don’t forget anything and that your house is cleaned thoroughly.

The best way to create a cleaning checklist is to walk through your home and write down all of the tasks that need to be done. This will give you a realistic idea of how long it will take to clean your home.

It’s also important to consider your lifestyle when creating a cleaning schedule. If you live alone, you may only need to clean your home once a week. If you have children, you may need to clean more often.

3. Prioritize

You can often spend hours cleaning and still leave feeling like you didn’t get everything done. Getting your priorities right is important to prevent this. Things that take longer to clean, or those you don’t particularly enjoy doing, should be done first. For example, dusting should be done before vacuuming so that you don’t have to go back and re-dust everywhere. And, if you’re using cleaning solutions that need to sit for a while, such as toilet cleaner, it’s good to do this before mopping.

Then, focus on high traffic areas, such as living rooms and kitchens, followed by bathrooms and then bedrooms. Doing things in this way will keep you motivated. It’ll also save you time by avoiding repetitive cleaning tasks.

4. Make a List of Every Room

When it comes to whole-home cleaning, a checklist is essential. Whether you’re hosting guests or it’s time to do a deep clean, a room-by-room checklist helps you stay on track.

Bathrooms and kitchens require more attention to detail than other rooms, so make sure these are first on your list. Start with dusting surfaces (including light fixtures), then wipe down baseboards and vacuum floors. If the room has a rug, make sure to vaccum and then steam it.

Next, focus on the living areas. Fluff pillows, straighten throw blankets and organize knick-knacks. Then, move on to the dining room or home office. Organizing these spaces helps them look cleaner and stay that way. It also makes it easier to find things when you need them.

5. Get Organized

Cleaning is much easier when you have everything you need right at your fingertips. Gather all your cleaning supplies in a caddy or bucket and place them in one spot to keep them handy.

Keep a cleaning schedule to prevent getting behind and having to do an entire house at once, recommends Bailey Gaddis, founder of Feng Shui Mommy. She suggests focusing on high-traffic areas like doorknobs, countertops, and kitchens. She also recommends establishing a shoes-off policy to help prevent toxins, dirt, dust, and leaves from dirtying up your floors.

She advises saving ‘wet’ areas like bathrooms and kitchens for last so that the cleaning solutions can soak in. And finally, she recommends cleaning from top to bottom so that crumbs and dust from higher surfaces don’t fall on lower ones.