Home Help: How to freshen up a mattress

Tip of the week: Cleaning

How to freshen up a mattress 

Did you know you're supposed to clean your mattress twice a year? 

That's what the experts over at Consumer Reports recommend as they say freshening up your mattress has many benefits. Not only can it help remove allergens life dirt, dust and pet dander, but it can also extend the life of your mattress.

Step one, remove all bedding and vacuum the entire surface, including the crevices and seams, of the mattress with a hose attachment or a strong handheld vacuum. Next, spot-treat any stains with an upholstery cleaner or enzyme-based pet-odor remover.

Lastly, deodorize the mattress. Note this step will need 24 hours so plan to sleep in another room if possible. Buy a brand new box of baking soda as depending on your mattress size it may need the whole box. Then sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the entire surface of the mattress. Then leave it to sit on for 24 hours before finally, vacuuming up the all baking soda.

— More Content Now 

Gardening

Are ink shreddings bad for compost? 

Good news, the inks from laser and inkjet printers as well as newspapers are not considered toxic even for a vegetable garden, according to the Oregon State Extension Service. However, avoid composting the colored advertising inserts in newspapers.

You can also surface mulch with paper shredding as it will keep weeds at bay and keep soil moist in hot weather.

Home renovation

One tip to make a guest bath look bigger

Mirrors. That's what Luke Caldwell, a designer and one of the stars of HGTV's "Boise Boys," recommends. He recently told Realtor.com that he likes to "make a little magic with mirrors."

When doing a remodel himself, he first installs a large mirror that runs from the top of the vanity to the ceiling. Next he adds a bit of light by flanking the mirror with eye-level wall sconces. This is better than overhead lighting as it allows light to reflect across the space and doesn't cause harsh shadows.

Decor 

A new layout can make family room friendlier

Sometimes just changing to position of furniture can make a room feel more cozy, say the experts at Houzz. If a room feels too stuffy and formal, try rearranging the seating in a way that encourages social interaction. For example, put seating close enough to encourage conversation rather than back against the walls. Imagine how people sitting in a particular chair or on a sofa will communicate with one another when deciding where to put these pieces of furniture in a room. 

— More Content Now