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Most of Domino readers’ purchases last month pointed to everyone spending more time outside. From a vintage-inspired lawn chair that’s lightweight enough to carry to the park to a heavily discounted Turkish towel that could easily double as a beach blanket, it became clear that soaking up every bit of summer is weighing heavy on your minds. Otherwise, the main reason the 14 items, below, accumulated in your carts was none other than the temptation of a very good sale—whether in the form of a random discount or sitewide seasonal promotion. Read on to see everything you brought home in June.
As seen in: Deals of the Week Domino Editors Are Adding to Their Carts
Any item that’s more than half off is primed to catch our attention, especially when it’s a beach-going necessity. This cotton-blend towel in Mediterranean blue stripes with a classic tasseled edge will transport you to Greece without having to pay the price of a plane ticket. In fact, it’s significantly less—you can still grab it at its discounted $19 over at Huckberry. And after slipping it into our shopping newsletter—sign up for it right this way!—it got scooped up by the dozen. We love that it’s big enough and packable to bring along as a picnic or beach blanket, but still plenty absorbent enough to hang from a hook in your bathroom; it’s destined to be a versatile staple of your linen closet.
As seen in: Deals of the Week Domino Editors Are Adding to Their Carts
Your obsession with British decor isn’t wavering. This ceramic lamp, finished in a crackled ruby red base by U.K.-based brand OKA, is currently completely sold out. We’re not surprised, considering the base was down to just $55 from its original $285 asking price. If you missed out on the rare markdown, don’t fret; you can still snag a similarly curvaceous silhouette in a neutral charcoal colorway for an even more affordable $45. We do, however, recommend digging through the brand’s well-stocked sale section—everything is currently up to 75% off right now.
As seen in: The Best Outdoor Side Tables Hold Snacks and a Good Book Without Overcrowding Your Setup
Of all the outdoor side tables we rounded up to dress up your small patio or porch, you were drawn to our top metal pick the most. The powder-coated number comes in a cheerful peachy orange and earthy mint green, and it’s durable enough to withstand the natural elements. Aside from its good looks, we imagine your curiosity was piqued enough to add to your cart after discovering the iron tray is removable, meaning you can tote your drink of choice by the artsy top handle.
As seen in: Miranda Lambert Just Dropped a Summer Rug That Takes Her to Her Happy Place
Stamped with Miranda Lambert’s approval, this flowery, patchworklike rug was designed by the country music star to bring home the feeling of Texas summers. It looks like you took our recommendations to heart, buying this vibrant floor covering to layer over jute or place as the centerpiece of a playful child’s room, given its flat-weave construction won’t unravel or stain.
As seen in: H&M Home Is Knocking 20% Off Everything—Even the Sale Stuff
Without fail, there’s always a product (or two!) from H&M Home that takes a top seat on our bestseller list. In June, it’s the brand’s washed linen cushion covers that, on a normal day, cost no more than $15 but more recently were priced down to $10. The throws have already amassed 500-plus positive reviews, earning a nearly 5-star rating. (Even our shopping director, Liz Buxton, can vouch for its spot-on texture.)
As seen in: You Can Leave These Waterproof Solar Lanterns Hanging by the Pool All Summer Long
These petite luminaries were your most sought-after item this month—you bought over 100 alone, not counting the other hanging solar lamps from Amazon we recommended (and that you also inherently scooped up). This particular brand stood out as the star because the two-pack has been on sale throughout most of the month, and reviews attest they’ll still light up after a day of “snow, wind, and freezing temperatures.”
As Seen In: 4 Things That Will Definitely Sell Out From West Elm’s New Rhode Collab
Much like the Marimekko collection last month, we anticipated a few items from West Elm and Rhode’s recent collaboration to sell out—fast. Domino readers took a special liking to the scalloplike stoneware dinner plates. Designed to be layered together with the begonia-adorned salad set, we’re guessing they flew off the virtual shelf because these platters make setting the table a breeze, even for beginners.
As seen in: The Best White Curtains Don’t Have to Be Plain & The Best Linen Curtains Go Beyond Just White and Cream
Shortly after adding the brand’s linen curtains to both our white curtain and linen curtain buyer’s guides, you took note. We wager it’s a result of the treatments typically costing a lot more, but in true Quince fashion, its panels are both beautiful and budget-friendly, starting at just $80. Still made from 100% European flax, but lined with cotton, these offer the just-right amount of shade and privacy. Another reason we bet these quickly became a favorite is the variety of length offerings and ease of hanging from either a back tab or pole top.
As seen in: Deals of the Week Domino Editors Are Adding to Their Carts
These no-frills, coconut- and apricot-wax candles rival the scents of fancier options out there, but without the annoyance of tunneling and, in our experience, covering the glass sides in ash. The latest fragrance hit? Tomato Vine. This herby, earthy burn has been compared to Diptyque’s La Droguerie odor removing candle (except it’s a third of the price).
As seen in: 30 Unique Father’s Day Gift Ideas So You Can Avoid Resorting to Golf Tees or Socks
In addition to the hanging lanterns, this portable panel also became a bestseller after a successful stint in our Father’s Day guide and a later boost from our recent coverage of renewable energy brand Grouphug. While this particular unit is designed with camping in mind, who’s to say you can’t prop it on your windowsill and reap the benefits during your workweek.
As seen in: All This $70 Amazon Lawn Chair Needs Is a Patch of Grass and a Gimlet
Old-school lawn chairs are back. Unlike the seats collecting cobwebs in your grandparents’ garage, these trendy iterations offer a modern, rustproof update of the classic. Choose from monochrome webbing or dial into the nostalgia factor with color combinations that’ll have everyone at the next family function reminiscing. Psst: If you grow tired of the color scheme or simply need to repair any pieces that start to fray, you can order replacement webbing. Other factors we bet swayed you to buy: Each of these are made in the U.S., and the lightweight aluminum frame is easy enough for kids to carry on their own.
As seen in: The 30-Plus Memorial Day Bedding Sales You Can Still Shop
Post–Memorial Day weekend, you went all in on our recommendation of Brooklinen’s linen sheets, which we recently fell in love with all over again thanks to a fresh color drop. The set comes prewashed, and we can confirm that right out of the bag these are shockingly soft to the touch. So if you’re in need of some breathable bedding, look no further—these are once again 20% off for Fourth of July.
As seen in: The Best Outdoor Showers Hook Right Up to Your Garden Hose
An outdoor shower that’s less than $200? Say less. Novogratz’s version caught the most attention in our recent roundup of recommendations, probably because all you need to enjoy it is a garden hose to hook it up to. Originally $740, you were able to buy it at a wildly affordable $220, and now it’s an even better deal at just $175.
As seen in: Our Hunt for the Best Sofa Under $500 Led Us to 7 Contenders
Last week, we churned out a ton of couch content, but none of the buyer’s guides caught your eye more than our top picks for sofas under $500. The clear favorite was this deep-seated number from Amazon. The reviews are surprisingly good, noting the removable covers are machine washable and sit atop a sturdy metal frame. The pictures make a stronger case: The chenille fabric looks more like linen in shoppers’ snapshots.
In June, readers were clearly in need of a last-minute Father’s Day gift, opting for a pack of Japanese sauces we first fell in love with during the holiday season. Plus you circled back to an affordable foot-softening mask from May (it is flip-flop season, after all), and a major sale at Saatva inspired you to invest more in your sleep.
The post A 77% Off Outdoor Shower, $19 Turkish Towels—These Were Your Top Buys in June appeared first on domino.
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Reading up on Domino’s shopping guides is like having your own personal product concierge. We do the tedious part—deep-dive research, hands-on testing, and tapping experts for advice—so all you have to do is hit “add to cart.” That’s why we call them Simply the Best.
When you think of a sauna, you probably envision a fancy gym or spa, cloaked with the scent of eucalyptus. Or memberships and appointments, with no outsiders welcome. The best portable saunas, though, allow you to bring that feel-good experience home—so you can sit, stand, or lie down for your sweat session, customizable based on heat and duration.
The only tricky part of creating these wellness-retreat vibes at home? Choosing which option makes the most sense for you. Steam or infrared? Tent, dome, or blanket? We’ve scouted the market and chatted with experts to gather the five best portable saunas, based on material and design, heating source, and ease of assembly. So go on, heat things up.
Collapsible: Yes | Max temp: 150°F | Heat source: 3 low-EMF carbon panels
What we like:
Worth noting:
Why we chose it: You’ll be set up and sweating in less time than it takes to check into a spa.
This collapsible one-person sauna is also a value-driven pick that would appeal to anyone looking for a simple and quick session at home. Unfold, plug it in, and (per enthusiastic customer reviews) let it heat for a few minutes before climbing in and zipping up. There are five different heating levels, and a handheld control makes it easy to choose from six timer options—for whatever length of time is right for you. Portable sauna tents are a bit awkward by nature, but this gray polyester looks purposeful for your bathroom or home gym—and it folds away when you don’t want it on display.
Collapsible: Yes | Max temp: 158°F | Heat source: Low EMF far infrared
What we like:
Worth noting:
Why we chose it: A portable mat sporting far infrared heat that’ll have you relaxed in no time.
HigherDose appears on this list twice, and that’s because they balance form and function just right. This mat, the portable size of the larger best-selling regular version, is highly rated for all the reasons we’re drawn to it. Just unfurl, plug it in, and either fold into a meditation session or lay back on the sofa on top of it. Sakara Life’s co-founder swears by the product at the office—”You’ll usually find me in a green armchair that I keep my HigherDose PEMF Go Mat on. It makes hours of Zoom meetings much more comfortable.”—but many reviewers speak to how it helps them wind down at the end of the day ahead of bedtime. There are a few different levels, and a handheld control makes it easy to control.
Collapsible: Yes | Max temp: 122°F | Heat source: Steam
What we like:
Worth noting:
Why we chose it: You choose your steam journey with 16 customizable options.
This lightweight tent allows you to make any room of your home (or outside if it’s over 65 degrees Fahrenheit) a Nordic spa—and the collapsible design makes it easy to tuck away in your gym, bathroom, or garage. You can customize the experience to your liking with 16 programmable steam levels, whether you’re stepping in post-workout or looking for a few minutes of zen. The best part? The benefits of your favorite spa session at a fraction of the cost. Important to note, though—this option doesn’t get as hot as others on the market.
Collapsible: Yes | Max temp: 150°F | Heat source: SoloCarbon infrared panels
What we like:
Worth noting:
Why we chose it: Showing off your new modern-looking toy is (almost) equally as exciting as the spalike experience.
The Solo System looks like something you picked up from your favorite spa and dropped in your home—it has a professional-grade appearance and features, to boot. This dome is ideal for those in the market for serious relaxation. To use, you lie flat on your back (on a cushy memory foam pad called the Solo Pad) with all but your neck and head immersed in the infrared heat. LED lights are included, too, for chromotherapy—a process that uses colors from the sun’s visible light spectrum to help promote balance and mental well-being, according to the brand. Though the Solo System will take up more space than other portable saunas on the market, the Solo Pad folds easily within the dome—which can then be tucked away in a closet or storage space.
Collapsible: No | Max temp: N/A | Heat source: Infrared bulb panel
What we like:
Worth noting:
Why we chose it: It’s worthy of a post on your feed and offers lower temps (a more comfortable heat level for some).
The Luminati sauna uses ThermaLight bulbs that produce full-spectrum infrared light that have a similar distribution to sunlight—minus the harmful UV rays and blue light. The bulbs heat your body directly versus heating the air in the sauna, which means the Luminati doesn’t get as intensely hot as some others on the market—which (depending on your preference) may be more comfortable. You can choose from five cover colors to fit your home’s aesthetic, and the tentlike exterior is reminiscent of something you’d find at a trendy wellness retreat. Though the tent is more of a presence than other portable saunas, you can move it from room to room easily.
Collapsible: N/A | Max temp: 158°F | Heat source: Low EMF far infrared
What we like:
Worth noting:
Why we chose it: A sleek sleeping bag–esque detox that you can lay out on a yoga mat or any heat-resistant surface.
Irisha Steele, spa director at the luxe Farmhouse Inn in Sonoma, California, uses HigherDose blankets in the hotel’s spa—and also in her own home. Zipping yourself inside the blanket is supposed to increase the body’s thermal energy, spurring relaxation and glowing skin benefits; it’s also low in EMF (electromagnetic field) and also ELF (extremely low frequency) currents. Since it folds like a normal blanket, adding HigherDose to your everyday routine is quick and convenient.
The best portable saunas strike a balance of convenience (think: easy setup and quick to tuck away) and performance. We dove into the market for saunas and sauna blankets, with a few major specifications in mind: size and material, heat source (infrared panels? steam?), and ease of assembly. Design was also an important factor; while many portable saunas are not designed to be the focal point of any space, we chose options that could’ve been plucked from your favorite spas (or quickly stored out of sight). We tapped Steele and aesthetician Shamara Bondaroff, founder of SB Skin, for what they use at home, as well as insight into how personal saunas can add to your regular relaxation routine.
The design of the best portable sauna for you is dependent on your priorities. Are you cool with a collapsable tent and folding chair? Do you prefer lying down or sitting? Steele recommends taking the size of the portable sauna into consideration—think about where you want to place yours and where you might store it when not in use. The collapsible models and blankets are ideal for smaller spaces, whereas the dome and more structured tents may be better suited for roomier areas. It’s important to consider material, too. “What your sauna is made out of matters,” says Bondaroff.
The appeal of a portable sauna is being able to easily set it up at home. When you’re looking for your own, be mindful of what the assembly is like—does it unfold and pop up? Are there multiple parts to keep track of? Ideally, prepping is quick and relatively simple (and putting it away should be equally easy). Both Steele and Bondaroff use the HigherDose sauna blanket, which Steele says is perfect for travel and city living—and can easily be folded and stored. If you’ve got more space to work with, try the Luminati Infrared Sauna or Nordic Ways At-Home Signature Steam Sauna.
One of the most important features to look for in a portable sauna is one infused with infrared therapy, says Steele: “It helps muscle recovery, enhances deep relaxation, and promotes healthy and glowing skin.” According to the Mayo Clinic, infrared saunas heat the body directly versus traditional saunas—which use heat to warm the air, which in turn heats the body. Infrared saunas use dry heat instead of steam for what Tim Waanders, P.T., D.P.T., of Finish Line Physical Therapy describes as a gentler and more comfortable sauna experience.
It varies depending on the model, but some are equipped with sweat liners or trays that allow you to easily empty and wipe down after each session (which you should!). Be sure to consult the manufacturer’s instructions beforehand, because some portable saunas advise against excess moisture within the chamber to avoid damage. In other models, it may be helpful to place a towel down before you sit to help keep the area cleaner.
The best type of sauna for at-home use depends on your lifestyle and the space available to you. The sauna Bondaroff uses at home has full-spectrum infrared heat coverage and low EMF. ”This is the type of sauna you go into without a phone to totally decompress,” she says. Some options, like the blankets or tents, allow you to read, watch TV, or do other stationary activities simultaneously. A dome, on the other hand, is a nice middle ground between a stationary sauna and blanket. “I like the domes for deep relaxation and how portable they are,” she adds.
When choosing one of the best portable saunas, focus on the type of experience you’re aiming for—whether it’s jumping in quickly post-workout or a slow, daily session to optimize relaxation. Your sauna should be convenient to set up and operate and a seamless addition to your everyday routine. If you’re ready to get your sauna going ASAP, opt for the HeatWave. Turn on your latest bingeable show, pop up the tent, and climb in for an almost effortless sauna sesh.
The post The Best Portable Saunas Are Like a Pop-Up At-Home Spa appeared first on domino.
]]>By Anna Kocharian
A typical dorm room is equipped with three basics: a bed, a desk, and a dresser. In the limited confines of what you’re allotted, finding extra storage space can be challenging. Factor in a roommate and things are bound to get even cozier. Whether you’re setting off for your first semester of college or you’re a seasoned vet who has done drop-offs for years, there’s a thing or two to learn when it comes to organizing and shopping for a dorm.
Back-to-school shopping can be overwhelming—never mind carving out space to store what you bought. So to help the college-bound and their families pinpoint the must-haves, we turned to organization experts for their take on dorm storage essentials, including helpful product suggestions.
Before leaving for school, think carefully about what will be needed and used, says Karin Socci, founder of The Serene Home, a professional organization service. “If the item is not something you use at home, such as dressy clothing, sporting goods, or books, it is unlikely you will need it at school.”
Instead of packing extra sets of towels and bedding, get into the practice of washing them on a regular basis and reusing the same set or two. And if you’re looking to buy a coffee maker or another small appliance (such as a hair dryer) see if your roommate wants to go in on one together, Socci suggests.
Photo: Getty Images
While the closet may be a prime source of storage in a dorm, it’s limited. One easy way to save space? Skip the bulky hangers. A certified professional organizer, Mackenzie Scott of Mission 2 Organize, recommends slim hangers—either felt or plastic will do—to maximize the capacity of the closet.
When hanging items, group longer pieces together and relegate shorter ones to the other end to create room for freestanding storage units or shelves. Scott recommends a plastic drawer system that can house everything from clothes to shoes.
Also, make sure to take advantage of all the vertical space available. For example, use the area above any hanging space in the closet for baskets to hold lightweight items such as socks or intimates, Scott recommends.
The Shopping List
Shop baskets:
• Honey-Can-Do Task-It Woven Basket in gray, set of two, $12 at Amazon and Walmart
Shop slim hangers:
• Amazon Basics Slim Hangers, set of 50, $29 at Amazon
• Rebrilliant Velvet Hangers, set of 50, $33 at Wayfair
Shop storage bins:
• Life Story Plastic Stackable Clear Shoe and Closet Storage Box Container Bin With Lids, set of 10, $29 at Target, 20-pack for $48 at Amazon
• Sterilite Wide 3-Drawer Chest With Wheels, $20 at Walmart, $25 at The Container Store
Photo: Getty Images
Outside of the closet, the next best opportunity for storage is under the bed. While baskets and bins can easily slide in underneath, bed risers are a great way to add a few extra inches of clearance space. This dorm-room staple is available in a variety of sizes and can be made from wood, polypropylene, or carbon steel (a sturdier option if you’re looking for something taller). But their functionality doesn’t stop there.
“Many bed risers come with built-in power outlets, which can be a great opportunity to provide ease of access to an outlet from the bedside,” Scott says.
For more options: Under-the-Bed Storage Options to Help Banish Clutter
The Shopping List
Shop bed risers:
• Honey-Can-Do Bed Risers, set of four, $16 at Home Depot, $14 at Walmart
Shop under-the-bed storage:
• Sterilite 60 qt. Clear View Underbed Storage Bin, $25 at Target
Photo: Getty Images
Living in a dorm usually means having to use a communal bathroom. “The best method for bathroom-sharing is to get a bath caddy, especially if your bath area is down the hall or not attached to your room,” Scott says. It will make it easy to tote essentials back and forth and give the items a dedicated home.
A caddy will make it easy to carry the essentials. A similar approach can be used for makeup by creating a basket or case that holds all your products so you can pull them out, use them, and put them away, Scott adds.
The Shopping List
Shop bath caddies:
• Madesmart Soft-Grip Tote, $13 at Target, a similar one for $14 at Amazon
Shop baskets: Amazon, Target, Wayfair
Photo: Getty Images
An organized desktop is essential for carving out a productive workspace, especially because the space will probably be getting a lot of use. Consider your work style and whether you do well with visual clutter, says another professional organizer, Tana Ching. If you’re okay with being surrounded by piles of textbooks and notepads, she recommends grouping materials by subject matter and clearly labeling them. If you prefer things to be out of sight, opt for a portable file box to keep your staples in line without having to clutter your desktop.
“Treat your desktop as prime real estate,” Socci says. The more cluttered your desk is, the harder it will be to find the things you need. “Create a folder for each class and others for various social activities, and become diligent about filing things electronically.” For example, paper syllabuses can be scanned and stored digitally on your laptop or computer.
Shop file holders: Ikea, Target, Wayfair
Last but not least, remember that you don’t have to take everything with you right away, Scott says: “Travel light for fall, and if you find you really need extra items, grab them during your first break home or buy them when you get to school.”
Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright © 2023, Consumer Reports, Inc.
]]>PHOTO CREDIT: DAVE COLLINS (CLEVERHIKER.COM)
The snow is melting and the parks are opening - it’s time to get outside! We’re just as stoked as you are for summer hiking and backpacking season, and REI has you covered with some great deals on gear to get you on the trail. REI’s 4th of July sale runs from June 23rd - July 4th.
REI Members have access to some exclusive sale items, so if you haven’t joined yet - now is the time. We scoured the deals and narrowed this list down to the gear we're most excited about.
Oh yeah, if you’re not an REI member, don’t fret! You can pick up a lifetime membership for $30 and still get to use the 20% off coupon. So, your lifetime membership will pretty much pay for itself with one big purchase. Here are some of the reasons all of us here at CleverHiker have been REI members for years:
Knowledgeable and friendly staff - We always have an awesome experience with the sales and customer service staff. They’re friendly and helpful, and they really know their stuff!
Save money - There are so many benefits to membership, but some of our favorites are access to 20% off coupons a few times a year, 10% dividend back on full-price purchases, access to the used gear Garage Sale, and discounts on REI Adventures and in-store classes.
REI brand products are a great value - We generally find that REI brand products strike a great balance between quality and cost. The Magma line of sleeping bags and the Half Dome line of tents are some of our favorite products from their wide range of offerings.
REI has an excellent return policy - Customer service reigns supreme here. REI gives you 365 days to return or exchange items and we love the ability to buy online and return in store.
REI is getting into the ultralight game - We’re pretty stoked to see REI jumping into the ultralight arena. They’re now stocking their shelves with UL retailers, such as Hyperlite Mountain Gear, as well as upgrading many of their REI brand product lines to focus on fast and light gear.
REI has made some of our favorite tents over the years, but few have been as impressive as the Flash 2. This tent has a weight and interior volume that rival some of the most popular backpacking tents of all time, but it costs far less than anything in its class. With its unique pole architecture, the Flash 2 manages to feel more spacious than tents with the exact same dimensions. See how this tent stacks up against the competition on our list of the Best Backpacking Tents.
We love the REI Skyward 4 tent for its high-quality tent poles/fabrics, spacious interior, and ease of setup. It has near-vertical walls and a 6.5 foot peak height, so you can stand and move around freely. The vestibule off the front is handy, and we like that there’s an awning over the door for drip-free entry. The Skyward is a well-rounded tent with a sweet balance of simplicity and spaciousness which made it our number one pick on our Best Camping Tents list.
The REI Half Dome series of tents are a good value for those wanting a tent that’s practical for both backpacking and car camping. These tents provide a good balance of durability, interior space, and affordability, and their freestanding design makes them easy to set up. Our favorite size for backpacking is the 2 Plus, and the 3 Plus is more comfortable and spacious for car camping. The Half Dome tents are featured on both our Best Camping Tents and Best Backpacking Tents lists.
REI’s Wonderland tents come in a few sizes, but our top pick is the Wonderland 4. This tent is a redesign of the popular Kingdom. It still features the same high ceiling, giant doors, and convenient storage pockets that made the Kingdom so well-loved. This is a can’t-miss deal if you’re in the market for a new camping tent. See how it stacks up against the competition on our Best Camping Tents list.
Eureka's Space Camp 4 is a welcoming shelter with nearly vertical walls and a versatile rainfly. There are two generous vestibules to protect your gear when bad weather hits and multiple vents to promote airflow. For taller campers, the Space Camp 6P has a peak height of 6’4” for more headroom. The Space Camp is among the highest-quality budget options on our Best Camping Tents list.
The affordable REI Trail Hut 2 is an excellent tent for hikers on a tight budget or those wanting a crossover tent for car camping and backpacking. It’s quick and easy to pitch, made with durable materials, and the weight/bulk aren’t too bad when split between two hikers. If you’re looking to go as affordable as possible, the REI Trailmade 2 costs less and is a bit lighter. But we ultimately prefer the Trail Hut for its larger interior space. Learn more about these tents on our list of the Best Backpacking Tents.
The La Sportiva Bushido II (men’s / women’s) is a burly trail runner with awesome traction for tackling technical mountain trails. One of the Bushido’s greatest assets is its durability - the mesh zones are reinforced with a ripstop overlay, and they feature a stout rubber toe cap to protect against rocks. Learn more about the Bushidos on our lists of the Best Trail Running Shoes for Men and Women.
Balega Hidden Comfort Socks are simple, lightly padded, and comfortable with cushy tabs at the ankle that effectively keep them from sliding down. The plush padding across the entire sole makes them a bit warmer and less breathable underfoot than some, but they’re an excellent, affordable choice for those looking for comfy low-cut socks for everyday use. See how they compare to other socks on our list of the Best Hiking Socks.
Who doesn’t love a good toe sock? Injinji's Trail Midweight Mini Crews (unisex / women’s) are some of the most popular socks on the market because they’re affordable, comfortable, highly breathable, and excellent for reducing friction between the toes. Since each toe is wrapped in wicking fabric, we find that they do a very good job of keeping our feet dry on the trail too. All this helps cut down on blisters, and we can all get behind that. Head over to our Best Hiking Socks list to learn more about our favorite Injinji socks.
The REI Magma 15 / Magma 30 (women’s Magma 15 / 30) sleeping bags have an unrivaled combination of weight, warmth, and cost. If you want one sleeping bag that will work for most of the year, the Magma 15 is an excellent choice. If most of your backpacking trips are during summer or you’re a warm sleeper, the Magma 30 is perfect for keeping pack weight to a minimum. The Magma 15 and 30 are our top picks on our Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags list.
The REI Magma Quilt 30 is one of our go-to sleep sacks for trips where nighttime temperatures stay in the 40s or above. This pared-down design will keep your summer base weight as low as possible, and it compresses down small to leave room in your pack for other luxuries. Its combination of weight, warmth, and cost makes the Magma one of our favorite quilts of all time, and it ranks highly on our Best Sleeping Bags and Best Backpacking Quilts lists.
The REI Camp Dreamer XL is an impressively thick, comfy, and easy to use camping mattress at an excellent price point. It makes sleeping outdoors feel lavish, while still being relatively lightweight and portable. For couples and those who prefer to sleep like a starfish, the Camp Dreamer also comes in a Double Size. Because it’s similar in quality to many high-end camping mattresses but a lot more affordable, we named it the best value mattress on our Best Camping Mattress list.
The Kelty Cosmic Down 20 (men’s / women’s) is a great budget buy for beginners, campers, and those who aren’t as concerned with weight and bulk. Keep in mind, you get what you pay for, so don’t expect the same quality out of the Cosmic as a high-end down sleeping bag, but the Cosmic is fully functional, very comfortable, and is sold at a price that’s tough to beat. The Cosmic Down can be found on our list of the Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags.
Everything about the HEST Sleep System is hands-down one of the most luxurious camping mattresses we’ve ever slept on. The inflatable base is really durable and creates a smooth, bump-free platform, while the memory foam topper is soft and warm. The HEST Sleep System is expensive, but it’s well worth the money for extended, multi-night trips close to your vehicle. We recommend the wide version as the regular size feels a bit too narrow. See how the HEST compares on our Best Camping Mattresses list.
If you're looking for a way to get more relaxation and comfort to your camping or travel endeavors, check out the HEST Camp Pillow. It brings the comfort of home in a compact package that's easy to transport and keep clean. It's nearly full-size and the shredded memory foam fill provides excellent support that doesn't flatten out. The regular size is plenty big for our needs, but an even larger Standard Pillow is also available. Get all the details on our Best Camping Pillows list.
The NEMO Tensor Insulated Pad is one of our long-time favorite sleeping pads because it’s quieter than other pads and it’s exceptionally comfortable. The Tensor also comes with one of the best pump sacks on the market, which makes inflation fast and easy. This pad comes in several shape and size options, including mummy, rectangular, and the elusive regular/wide model, and it ranks highly on our Best Sleeping Pads list.
For the ultralight/budget backpacker who’s hard on gear and doesn’t want the possibility of a ruptured air pad, the Therm-a-Rest ZLite Sol is a great option and got an Honorable Mention on our Best Sleeping Pads list. In addition to the ZLite being nearly indestructible, we also love that it can double as a seat when taking a break on hiking trips so you don’t have to sit in the dirt or on wet surfaces.
REI’s Helix Insulated Air features the highest R-value of any pad in its price range, so it’s an excellent value for cold sleepers on a tight budget. At 3 inches thick, the Helix is very cushy and comfortable. It’s a bit heavier than some of our other favorite backpacking sleeping pads, but we think the extra warmth is worth the weight if you tend to get cold at night. See how the Helix stacks up against other top sleeping pads on our list of the Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads
NEMO makes some of the most luxurious sleeping bags around. Their signature Thermo Gills make it easy to regulate your temperature, and the spoon shape is ideal for side sleepers. If you're looking for a comfortable sleeping bag with a lot of space, the NEMO Disco 15 is a great option. NEMO also makes the Disco 30 for those who do most of their camping in summer. Both make our lists of the Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags and Best Camping Sleeping Bags for their roomy comfort.
REI’s Camp Bed is already one of the best deals on a car camping pad in the whole store, and now at 50% off it’s truly a steal. The Camp Bed is cushy, quick and easy to inflate/deflate, and is much more compact when stored than many other car camping pads, so it won’t take up as much real estate in your garage or gear closet. The Camp Bed is offered in regular and XL - we prefer the XL size since the extra width is comfier for our arms. Learn more about the REI Camp Bed on our Best Camping Mattresses list.
The REI Trailmade is an excellent and super affordable option that works for just about every kind of trip from travel to backpacking. The foam filling is comfier than an air pillow, and we love that you get to choose between the cozy fleece or the cool polyester side depending on the conditions. Plus, the Trailmade only weighs 5.25 oz., so it's totally backpacking-worthy if comfort is a priority. Learn more on our Best Camping Pillows list.
The REI Siesta 20 (also available as a two-person bag) is one of our go-to sleeping bags for car camping because it’s roomy for sprawling, durable, and comes in at a great value price. The rectangular hood adds extra warmth on chilly nights and holds a full-size bed pillow securely in place. The Siesta is our top pick on our Best Camping Sleeping Bags list.
Down bags are typically more expensive than synthetic, and they tend to only come in a mummy shape that doesn’t allow you to stretch out as much. This is where the down-filled rectangular Kelty Galactic 30 shines! It’s priced similarly to many of the high-quality synthetic bags on the market, and the rectangle shape offers plenty of room to sprawl. It also packs down small and provides impressive warmth for how lightweight it is. The Kelty Galactic 30 is near the top of our Best Camping Sleeping Bags list.
The Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 (men’s / women’s) is our favorite synthetic sleeping bag from our list of the Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags. The Trestles has some surprisingly cool features for how little it costs, like a blanket fold quarter zipper, internal stash pocket, and included compression sack. Synthetic bags used to be much heavier and bulkier than down bags, but that’s not so much the case anymore. The Trestles packs down decently small and is pretty light despite its recycled synthetic fill.
We’re big fans of MSR stoves, and the Pocket Rocket 2 has been a top pick on our Best Backpacking Stoves list for years. This stove is lightweight, compact, durable, and it has great simmer control. The upgraded Pocket Rocket Deluxe has some extra features, like a push button ignitor and better performance in bad weather. Both are truly excellent backcountry stoves that come in handy kit versions as well.
For hikers who mostly use a stove for boiling water to rehydrate freeze-dried meals, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better option than the Jetboil Flash. When it comes to boiling water quickly, the Flash lives up to its name and costs less than many other stove systems. If you’re looking for the fastest and most convenient stove for backpacking, The Flash is one of the fastest and most convenient stoves for backpacking, which made it a top choice on our Best Backpacking Stove List.
The Snow Peak LiteMax is one of the lightest backpacking stoves on the market. It’s built with titanium to keep weight to an absolute minimum, and folds down small for easy storage in any cookpot. It also has good simmer control, fast boiling times, and does a decent job in the wind too. The LiteMax ranks highly on our Best Backpacking Stoves list.
The Soto Windmaster is a highly efficient stove that, as the name would imply, performs beautifully in windy conditions. This powerful little stove boils very quickly, and is noticeably quieter than many other stoves we've used. While it's slightly bulkier than some of our other favorite canister stoves, it's still quite manageable and packs a lot of power for such a neat little package. Get more info on our Best Backpacking Stoves list.
The portable and convenient Eureka Ignite 2-Burner Stove is perfect for cooking some gourmet meals around the campfire. Its push button ignitor makes it easy to use, and the simmer control function allows for precise cooking. If you’ll be cooking for a larger group, you may want to upgrade to the Ignite Plus for the wider burners. Check out the Ignite Plus on our Best Camping Stoves list.
GSI products make up almost half of the recommendations on our Best Camping Cookware list, because they really nail it on design, price, and efficiency. The GSI Bugaboo Base Camper Cookset covers all your camp kitchen needs and is our favorite non-stick cookware. Their Stainless Troop Cookset is ideal for cooking for a group. It’s big enough to cook for a group and a cinch to pack. And their Pinnacle Dualist HS is a great choice for those needing something versatile enough to work for both camping and backpacking.
The IceMule BOSS is, well... boss for activities on the water like rafting, kayaking, fishing, or paddleboarding. It’s comfortable to carry thanks to the well-padded backpack straps and hipbelt, and it retains ice for multiple days. Since the Boss is 100% waterproof and insulated with both foam and air chambers, it floats if it happens to end up in the water too. It can also be used as a dry bag for your phone, keys, wallet, or a dry change of clothes. The Boss earned the title of best waterproof backpack cooler on our list of the Best Coolers.
The AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press is an awesome innovation for those who want to enjoy great coffee and espresso on the go. It allows you to have the bold taste of French press coffee anywhere.If you already have one or you know you’ll use it a ton, you can also stock up on discounted filters. The AeroPress Go Travel is our top travel coffee maker overall on our list of the Best Camping Coffee Makers for brew quality, portability, and ease-of-use.
The REI Skyward from our Best Camping Chairs list is a simple, affordable chair that’s great for sitting around a campfire, at the beach, or just about anywhere. It’s made of a highly-breathable mesh with supportive webbing straps, which means it’ll help keep you cooler and more comfortable on hot days, and it dries quickly if it gets wet in the rain.
NEMO’s Stargaze Recliner has been our favorite luxury camping chair for years due to its exceptional comfort and unique design. All this luxury comes with a high price tag, though, so this is a great time to get it at a deep discount! Check out how the Stargaze compares to other camp chairs on our Best Camping Chairs list.
Backpacking chairs can be great for short casual trips, and of course we love using camp chairs for frontcountry camping, events, and travel. The Flexlite Air, which weighs only one pound, is comfortable, sturdy, and packs down very small, making it an excellent choice for those on the go. The Flexlite family of chairs has earned a place on both our Best Backpacking Chairs and our Best Camping Chairs lists.
The Doublenest Hammock is roomy and tough enough to fit two people comfortably, so it’s awesome for lounging around camp with a pal. It comes in a bunch of fun color combinations for showing off your personal style, and it’s incredibly easy to set up using the included carabiners. If you’re hammocking solo, the SingleNest may be all you need. These hammocks can be found on our Best Hammocks list.
If you’re looking for a high-quality hydration pack with solid support and plenty of pockets, check out the Osprey Manta 24 (men’s) and Mira 22 (women’s). These packs have a large capacity for long days on the trail and a comfortable suspension system that transfers weight to your hips. The included 2.5L reservoir has a wide, leak-proof opening that zips shut with a slider. It also has a quick-disconnect tube that’s really easy to access. Get more details about the Manta and Mira on our Best Hydration Packs list.
If you’re looking for a chair you can share, the Kelty Low Loveseat is a practical and cozy perch for two. Its best asset is its durability, with a strong steel frame, thick quilted fabric, and quality construction. The smartly-designed carrying case wraps around the chair and buckles so it’s easy to pack up. The case also serves as a load hauler for firewood/gear, or a small ground cloth to keep your feet clean and dry. The Kelty Low Loveseat is our top two-seater choice on our list of the Best Camping Chairs.
The GCI Zero Gravity is an excellent value when compared to other luxury chairs, and it’s an absolute steal at 50% off. It features a high back with a headrest, a neck pillow, reclining options, and full leg support that make it really comfortable. Since it’s not the most portable, the Zero Gravity is one of our favorite chairs for glamping or relaxing in the yard.
There’s a lot to love about the REI Camp Prep Table: it’s sturdy, stable, and has a slatted aluminum tabletop that’s heat resistant and a breeze to clean. What really sets it apart, though, are the individual leg adjustments that make it easy to level no matter how uneven the ground is. The legs are controlled with lever locks (similar to those on a trekking pole), which are easier and more adjustable than push-button locks. The Camp Prep Table is our number one pick on our Best Camping Tables list.
Katadyn makes some of the best water filters and purifiers on the market. One of our favorites is the ultralight and compact Katadyn BeFree, which is great for day hikes and long backcountry trips. We also love Katadyn Micropur Chlorine Dioxide Tabs because they’re ridiculously light and compact, and they’re more reliable than filters.
The Gregory 3D Hydro is lightweight, durable, and it has a ton of handy features. What really sets it apart is that it’s soft-molded with a water bottle-like material. That means it holds its shape and stays open to dry completely between uses - greatly reducing the chances of grime accumulation. It even has a hook to hang it upside down when you’re done. The easy care and durability are why the 3D Hydro has the top spot on our Best Hydration Bladders list.
If you’re the camp cook, you know how essential it is to have some counter space to work with. Enter the Mountain Summit Gear Deluxe Roll Top Kitchen. In addition to having a large surface for your two-burner stove, it also has a prep area for a cutting board and a side table to hold utensils and a drink while you cook. The shelves help keep your kitchen organized and the detachable hanging storage compartment keeps your stuff out of sight from the critters. The Roll Top Kitchen is one of our favorites from our Best Camping Tables list.
The season of new gear releases is upon us which means last year’s colors and designs are going on clearance. If you don’t mind being a little behind on the latest fashion trends and gear updates, this is the perfect time to grab some big ticket items (like footwear and tents) at a deep discount.
In addition, from June 30th-July 4th members can save an extra $20 off a $100 REI Outlet purchase using coupon code OUT4JUL23.
We hope this guide helps you find the perfect gear for your needs. If you have more questions or a suggestion, we’d love to hear from you! Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on our latest posts then visit our Facebook page and Instagram to join the community conversation.
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]]>While many people stick to the same interior design style throughout most of their home, some choose a different approach for their bedroom. They see the bedroom as a space that is personal to them, and it is somewhere they can reflect their personality and passions. In the bedroom, they can choose a different theme that represents anything in which they are interested. If your favorite decade was the 80s or you are a fan of music from this decade, then you may wish to have an 80s themed bedroom. It was an interesting decade that introduced many new trends, both in terms of interior design and in many other aspects of culture. If you decide that this is the decade you wish to use as a theme in your bedroom, then here are 10 essentials for the perfect 80s bedroom to inspire you.
The 1980s was the era when people began to attempt decorating themselves rather than getting in the experts. DIY was all the rage during this decade, and people became increasingly daring and experimental in the home décor effects they were attempting to make. Stippling and stenciling were two popular paint effect styles. If you find these a little dated, then you might give paint splattering a try, as this was also a popular paint effect used in the 1980s, says Home Guides.
People also became more daring about the colors used in the 1980s. While colors such as mauve and apple green were popular choices in country homes, neon colors became a big hit during this decade. People began wearing neon-colored leg warmers, and kids’ accessories were often in neon colors. Consider having some neon surfaces in your 80s bedroom to reflect the trend for these bright colors in that decade.
The art you display on your walls can make a significant difference to the overall look of a room and the success of any theme you apply. In the 1980s, adorning the bedroom walls with posters was the most popular way of adding interesting focal points around the room. Most people put up posters of their favorite bands or movies. Doing this is something that you can do to add to the 80s theme in your bedroom.
The most common type of furniture you would see in homes during the 1980s was either oak or pine furniture. People opted for the plain wood look rather than for stained or painted wood. Choose a wooden bed frame, and add a pine or oak chest of drawers, wardrobe, and bedside cabinet to the room. In-built furniture became popular much later, so freestanding furniture is a better reflection of the era.
There are many iconic toys that come from the 1980s, many of which are still popular today. Some of the most popular toys from this era include the Rubik’s cube, Barbies, Transformers, Care Bears, and My Little Pony figures. Adorning the room with some of these toys will reflect the theme perfectly and add an element of fun to your 80s bedroom.
An interior accessory that became popular during the 1980s was character lamps. These reflected the trends in movies, television programs, and decade’s music. It is still possible to get hold of some of the original character lamps from the 80s on sites specializing in selling retro items or from sites such as eBay. Although many are collector’s items, they are an affordable item that will add to your interior décor theme. They are also an interesting talking point if you invite guests into your bedroom to see your themed room.
It was during the 1980s that the popularity of themed bed linen began to grow. Usually, these were seen in the bedrooms of children and teenagers, rather than adults. However, many adults now use themed bed linen to create a retro look or to make an ironic statement. Some of the most popular bed linen themes during the 1980s were Care Bears, Star Wars, My Little Pony, and Transformers. Using themed bed linen is a fun way to create the 1980s theme in a bedroom, especially in children’s bedrooms.
According to the Huffington Post, VHS tapes were to the 1980s what the iPad is to the modern-day. If you have a video player, then you can still watch your old VHS tapes. However, you can also use old VHS tapes as decorative items that add to the theme. Stack them on shelves or create a piece of art using your old tapes.
Modern soft furnishing trends often focus on pieces that are a solid color that acts as an accent to the colors on your walls. There is also a focus on introducing different fabrics and textures. However, people took a different approach to soft furnishings in the 1980s. Then, the trend was for patterned soft furnishings, with floral prints, stripes, and geometric designs. Adding soft furnishings to your 80s bedroom will create additional points of interest. However, choose prints and colors carefully to avoid clashing too much with the other designs and colors in your bedroom.
According to Retro Planet, one of the most common décor accessories in the 80s was houseplants. During this decade, most homes would have houseplants in every room, including the bedroom. It is a simple and cheap way of contributing to your 80s theme, and it will add a natural element to the room. In addition to house plants, there was also a trend for dried flowers. If you are forgetful when it comes to caring for plants, then dried flowers are an excellent alternative. Add them to your windowsill, bedside cabinet, or the top of your drawers.
If there was one thing that all interior designers in the 80s agreed on was putting up large mirrors in every home. From round frameless mirrors and glass blocks to floor-to-ceiling mirrors, people had their fill of mirrors around the house. According to Family Handyman, although not every home had floor-to-ceiling mirrors, they were often seen in movies or TV shows. If you want to incorporate a mirrored look into your 80’s themed bedroom, then these are perfect ways to add that effect. Mirrors added the illusion of more space while also hiding cabinets. This is great for a small bedroom as it makes the room feel bigger than it is.
Blinds and especially mini blinds became popular in the 80s. It was almost impossible to walk into a house and not find blinds. By 1981, mini-blinds had taken over the market for window coverings. Modern blinds can dramatize a window, give the room a new look, or even take attention away from a window.
Mini-blinds give a room an 80s feel and can help you hide structural errors around your windows or bad designs. Now, if you already have an 80s-themed wallpaper or even wall patterns from the era, you can find blinds that seamlessly match your wall designs.
People around that decade started to appreciate faux stone fireplaces. They moved away from brick fireplaces and walls that were classics in the 70s. Exposed brick designs were popular in the 70s and made houses look like old warehouses. In the 80s, people started covering up exposed brick and using fake fireplace designs that looked like a rock, making their houses look very pretty.
You can include a fake rock fireplace design in your house, especially if your bedroom already has a fireplace. Although not for everyone, this design will bring back the fiery 80s era to your room.
A Boom box is the ultimate 80s décor for your room. Although the first boom box was released in 1966, it was not until the late 70s that they started to become popular. By the 80s, almost every music lover in the country owned a boom box. Young people were purchasing boom boxes in large numbers, especially those who lived in cities.
They became a staple in all major music events and carnivals. They also became linked with the hip-hop culture at the time. Although now it would be hard to find cassette tapes to play in your boom, it would certainly add an 80s flair to the room.
Although telephone communication devices were invented in the 1800s, by the 1980s, landlines were the most popular communication devices. Technology had taken off, and people had phones in their houses.
Even though mobile phones as we know them now had not been developed, communication was made easier by landlines, which almost every house in America had. Phone companies have even come up with ways of making the phones look fun, with most having different colors.
In the 80s, neon colors had taken off, and many landlines from the time had bright neon green, pink, and red colors, to mention a few. You can add a brightly colored old landline from vintage stores to finish the 80s look.
As mentioned above, the mirror craze in the 80s was booming, and another easy and functional way people incorporated mirrors into their bedrooms was by putting mirrors on their closet doors.
This is functional and a great way to add an 80s vibe to the bedroom. Instead of putting your mirror up on the wall, consider putting it on your closet doors. This way, you can look at yourself as you dress up and make sure you look good.
A trend that started in the 70s and continued to the 80s was wall-to-wall shag carpeting. The wall-to-wall carpet was king during the 80s. It was especially popular in bright colors such as orange. If you want to add the 80s vibe to your bedroom, you can choose a brightly colored caret to accompany all the other 80s accessories in the room. As stated by SFGate, if you don’t want to add a wall-to-wall carpet, you can consider adding area rugs with bright colors, geometric designs, or graphic prints. People who do not want a bright carpet can get them in other colors that were also popular at the time, including mauve, peach, grey, and dusty blue.
These comfy, plush chairs were extremely popular then, and it was challenging to find a home without one. Although they originated in Italy, they became popular in the US, especially among young people and hippies. These shapeless chairs were comfortable and are also popular today.
The most popular designs in the 80s were colorful, bold, and lively prints. If you want to bring out the 80s theme, look for a brightly colored bean bag or one with bold patterns and plop it up in the corner of the room. This functional addition to the bedroom will add some color and comfort to your bedroom.
Forget the alarm clock on your phone. Before the world was digitized and mobile phones got features like the alarm, people were woken up daily by portable alarm clocks, which were loud and needed to be banged on to stop. The 1980s alarm clocks were different and cute.
The clocks had numbers that flipped and came in fake wood veneer. Some of them sported bright colors significantly in the 80s and made clicking sounds. Adding a cool 80s alarm clock and ditching your phone’s alarm will make you feel like you are living in the 80s.
Much like every other décor piece in the 70s and 80s, furniture tended to have bright upholstery. Sofas, in particular, sported bright, bold colors with floral prints. While wallpapers and rugs tended to lean towards geometric patterns, floral designs were the go-to furniture designs.
While floral sofas can be a great addition to your bedroom, especially if it is a big room and you want to add a seating area, you have to consider what designs you want your sofa to have as mixing a lot of the popular floral designs from the 80s can make your room look very busy and overwhelming to the eyes.
Family travel is a whole other ballgame. The strategy, gear, planning, expectations and number of times you may answer “Are we there yet?” make it an entirely different sport than solo or adults-only trips.
While traveling with kids is arguably quite different than taking a trip without a child (notice we didn’t call it a “vacation” with kids), it doesn’t have to be intimidating. In fact, there are countless ways to experience memorable moments and make lifelong memories with your kids, whether you hike the mountains of Machu Picchu or ride the newest coaster at Disney World.
Related: TPG’s 10 top family vacation destinations
To make the journey a little easier, we’ve compiled our 43 favorite family travel tips. Whether you’re traveling with infants, teens or some of both, these tried-and-true tips are bound to ease travel headaches and ensure your family travels are as fun and carefree as possible.
Having a baby does not mean the end of your time as a traveler. It may cause you to temporarily pause your adventures, and it will certainly change how you travel. But traveling with a baby is still worth the effort.
While it’s true that your baby may not remember the details of your trips during the first few years, quality time together is invaluable. You will always remember their first big vacations.
Some travel is often easier with a small, snuggly baby than with a growing, active toddler, so don’t be afraid to plan something while your little one is still young.
If you plan on traveling with a stroller, you want one that is lightweight and easy to maneuver through the airport or rough terrain, if necessary, once you reach your destination.
Related: These are the 13 best travel strollers for your next trip
If you choose to gate-check your stroller, foldability isn’t as important. Instead, prioritize protecting your stroller from dirt and damage by investing in a stroller with a bag. For long layovers, you can request to have your gate-checked stroller delivered to you between flights so that your baby has a safe and comfortable place to rest while you navigate the airport. Just ask the gate agent when you check your stroller.
To keep your hands free and your baby snuggled, you may choose to baby-wear through the airport or on a flight (though most airlines don’t allow it during takeoff and landing).
The Transportation Security Administration rules state that infants may be carried in a sling or carrier while going through the walk-through metal detector, so you shouldn’t have to remove them for security — at least, according to the rules.
If it’s not too hot, baby carriers and slings also come in handy at theme parks, which allow baby-wearing on many family-friendly attractions. Just be sure you ask about safety restrictions before you ride.
Breastfeeding mamas should consider carriers that allow easy access for on-the-go nursing, such as those in sling or wrap styles.
If you don’t want to lug both a car seat and a stroller and your baby weighs between 4 and 35 pounds, you’re in luck: The Doona can serve the function of both. It transforms very easily from a stroller to a car seat and back again, all while your baby is strapped in.
Because of their convenience, Doonas are great for flights, cab rides, Uber rides and, frankly, any part of your busy life with a baby.
Most airlines allow children younger than 2 to fly as lap infants instead of purchasing separate seats for them.
The cost savings can be hard to pass up, and during those early months when the little one is nursing or sleeping a lot, it can be the easiest way to go. However, if your baby is fussy or you are flying solo, you may feel more comfortable keeping them in their car seat. If they can sleep through anything or you have someone you can split baby-care duties with, you may have more success flying with a lap infant.
If you do purchase a seat for your baby, there are dozens of portable car seats out there that are much easier to travel with than the bulky car seat you may have at home.
The Cosco Scenera is a perennial favorite when it comes to travel car seats. At around 10 pounds and only $50 to $60, this car seat is a winner for travel when you need something easy and affordable. It’s rated for rear-facing little ones weighing between 5 and 40 pounds or forward-facing kiddos weighing 22 to 40 pounds.
Another model to consider is the WAYB Pico portable car seat, which was recommended by several TPG readers.
Every kid is different, but if your little one sleeps well in a car seat in the car, they may do the same on a plane. If your kids are generally comfortable in car seats and have their own seat assignments on the plane, consider bringing the car seat on board for a secure flight experience.
Related: Car seats that are airline approved
TPG’s senior director of engineering Mitchell Stoutin recommended using a Boppy nursing pillow for long flights with an infant. In addition to being handy for nursing, it gives your baby a comfortable place to rest. He also advised stashing your Boppy in a vacuum Ziploc bag to save space when not in use.
Once you make the transition to buying your child a seat — either because they turn 2 or because you think having a separate seat will work best for your family — sign them up for a frequent flyer account and let the miles start rolling in.
No minimum age requirements exist for kids, so enroll them while they’re young to maximize their earnings.
Related: Earning frequent flyer miles for your kids just got a little easier
Most airlines let families with young children board early in the process, but as long as your family has assigned seats, you don’t need to worry about rushing to board before others.
Instead, have one parent get all the gear ready and board first while the other waits as long as possible before bringing the baby on board. This will help minimize the amount of time you have your little one in tight quarters, reducing the likelihood of a meltdown or further disrupting their schedule.
Think about everything you may need to easily access for yourself and your baby before organizing your carry-on. That way, you don’t forget any of your must-have items or struggle to find them while on board.
Consider packing food, diapers and extra outfits for at least twice as long as you think you’ll need them for your little one while in transit. Don’t forget to also bring clothes, snacks and drinks for yourself so you have everything you need.
As a general rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to have enough essentials to survive at least 24 hours off of what you bring on board, as you never know what is going to happen.
Avoid packing a suitcase without tossing in a few Ziploc bags, grocery bags or trash bags. They can be used to stash snacks and store wet or dirty clothing.
As TPG executive editor Scott Mayerowitz shared, large black garbage bags can also work as blackout shades in a pinch.
Related: The best family beach vacation destinations to kick off summer
In the best-case scenario, you’ll have accommodations with at least two bedrooms so your baby has a dark, quiet place to sleep while you relax without disturbing them. However, there are times when having multiple rooms isn’t possible.
If you only have one bedroom, try putting a crib in a hotel closet or bathroom to achieve the same result.
When it’s time for the baby to sleep, there are numerous sleep tents, shades and white noise machines to choose from. Here are a few of our most trusted options:
You don’t always need to buy new gear for a successful trip, though. One reader suggested using painter’s tape to cover outlets as a quick, cost-effective way to baby-proof your hotel room.
Related: These are the best New York City hotels for families to check out
While you need plenty on hand for that first day or two, you can purchase what you need from Amazon and have it shipped directly to your destination instead of traveling with an entire week’s worth of needed items like diapers and wipes.
Alternatively, you can use a service like Shipt or Instacart to have essentials delivered to your hotel or home rental after you arrive.
This is true for all ages but especially applies when traveling with infants.
Don’t ever assume anything baby-appropriate will be available while you are in transit. The last thing you want is the stress of scrambling to find what you need at the last minute.
To avoid this potential headache, pack enough formula, snacks and more so you have whatever your little one may need to stay happy and content.
Related: How to pack — and prepare — for travel with a baby
The good news is that when kids are old enough for preschool, they don’t need quite as much sleeping and transportation gear.
With preschoolers, you’ll want to pay particular attention to toys and activities that will keep them entertained, night lights that will help keep the “scaries” away and a few other important travel essentials.
When choosing toys to pack for a flight or road trip, keep in mind that you don’t want anything that will create a mess or get lost easily, such as Legos or slime.
For mess-free coloring, we love Crayola Color Wonder Markers and coloring pages. If you’re taking a long flight or road trip, consider suction toys that can stick to a car or airplane window.
Related: 14 mistakes parents make when traveling with kids
A surefire way to keep your child content for extended periods of time is to hide some toys until your travel day arrives so they feel new and exciting. You can even wrap them up or dole them out periodically throughout your trip — we recommend packing one toy for each hour of a flight — to add an element of surprise.
Try visiting a dollar store or dollar aisle in a store to dial up the surprise factor. Trust us, the $5 investment will pay off in spades.
Related: Your guide to flying with kids of every age
If your child has graduated to a booster seat (congrats!), there are inflatable and fold-flat booster seats available that are easier to haul when traveling by car.
While there are several options currently on the market, the BubbleBum inflatable booster seat is a TPG reader favorite.
Should you find yourself covering lots of miles on your trip, having a stroller can come in handy, even if you don’t normally use one at home.
For example, at a large theme park like Disney World, you may find yourself needing a stroller until your kid is 6, 7 or even 8 years old if you are moving quickly and want them to easily keep up (or if you know they will fall asleep before you are ready to call it a night). This may mean renting one when you get there, though you may prefer to have your own if you’re doing more than spending time at Disney.
Because it isn’t socially acceptable to AirTag children (though they do come in handy for finding lost luggage), we instead suggest getting stroller straps that bigger kids can hold on to while you push younger children in the stroller. We’re particularly fond of the Tagalong Stroller Accessory.
If you need car seats or want to be sure you have a ride waiting for you when you land, Uber and Lyft now both have options for prescheduling a ride if you need one.
While the best service depends on where you are going, one option to try is Blacklane. Consider having your driver meet you inside at baggage claim if you’re traveling with a lot of gear.
For kids who are afraid of the dark, night lights may come in handy. This affordable nightlight is small, sleek and easy to pack.
If you are going on a cruise and don’t have access to traditional power outlets, TPG senior travel editor Erica Silverstein suggests bringing along battery-operated tea lights instead.
A magical milestone in travel is when your child turns 3 and is potty trained, as this unlocks access to a variety of kids clubs.
Whether you’re on a Disney cruise (like the new Disney Wish cruise ship, pictured below) or at a resort with a kids club (some of which are free to use), children’s clubs are great for preschoolers.
By going somewhere that caters to younger children, you’ll be able to get a well-deserved break while the kiddos are taken care of.
Even if your preschooler has dropped daily naps at home, it’s still smart to build some downtime into your vacation schedule. This is especially important because it’s likely that their sleep schedule will be a little off while you’re traveling and that your vacation will be more action-packed than what they’re used to at home.
To help your overtired kid adjust, plan a relaxing pool day or take an afternoon break in your hotel room to keep crankiness at bay.
As kids get older, they can do more while on vacation with less help, but the tried-and-true tricks for keeping them entertained may no longer work.
Because their brains are developing and becoming more complex, elementary-age kids will need to have access to more activities while they’re away from home. As a result, you’ll need to adjust your strategy for vacations so they continue to have a good time.
This tip applies to all age groups but can be especially helpful when your child starts taking more of an interest in choosing their own clothes. By relying on packing cubes, you can keep clothing for every member of your family organized while saving space.
If you decide to use packing cubes, there are a couple of good methods to choose from.
You can have a packing cube for each day of your trip and put your family’s clothing for each day in one cube. This works well if you will be making multiple stops and don’t want to pack and unpack everything.
You could also pack each family member’s clothing in a separate packing cube, which is helpful when you are encouraging kids to get dressed on their own and choose their own outfits.
We’ve already covered the importance of leaving some flex time in the afternoons, but if you are traveling for more than a long weekend, we highly recommend leaving an entire day unscheduled. That way, the kids can either rest and chill or you have the ability to say yes to something they spot along the way.
Depending on your child’s interests, you may want to use your free day for activities like splashing around at a water park, checking out some animals at a zoo, enjoying an epic ice cream-tasting adventure or spending more time at the kids club.
The key is to leave this day flexible so you can cater some activities to what your kid is enjoying the most.
Club access can be invaluable when traveling with kids.
If you stay in a club-level room at a hotel, you’ll often have daily access to breakfast, snacks and drinks. An added bonus is that the club can serve as a gathering spot for enjoying more time (and often gorgeous views) with them.
Related: Can you use a World of Hyatt club lounge access award for someone else?
This is the age where having other kids around really starts to matter.
If at all possible, try planning the trip to at least overlap with time spent with cousins or friends. Doing so will virtually guarantee the kids will have a better time, which means you will, too.
For these types of trips, you may want to look into finding a good vacation home rental.
Related: Why the best big family vacation may be skiing
Traveling with tweens and teens is completely different than traveling with younger kids — something you probably know all too well if you are currently living with them.
At this age, kids are well on their way toward becoming full-fledged adults. As a result, they deserve a taste of the space, privacy and independence that comes along with adulthood.
It’s easy to assume the phone will do the trick, but TPG editor Kristy Tolley is a proponent of custom activity bags to keep kids (including older ones) occupied on long trips.
For your activity bag, consider anything from snacks to quiet toys to new games for their Nintendo Switch to art supplies — whatever will keep them entertained while you get to your final destination.
Wi-Fi on airplanes can be quite finicky. Even if you pay for it, there’s never a guarantee it’ll work for the entirety of your flight. Because of this, download movies, music, games and more to your device (or your child’s) before your trip.
When downloading movies or TV shows, turn to multiple sources like Netflix, Disney+ and Apple. That way, if you run into issues with one provider, you still have content from the others.
Also, remember that messaging others is free on many flights, so be sure your teen has the airline app downloaded if you want them to be able to keep using services such as iMessage while in the air.
Until they turn 13, kids traveling with a parent or guardian with TSA PreCheck will be allowed to go through the expedited security line even if they themselves don’t have TSA PreCheck.
Even after they turn 13, kids 17 and younger can typically use the TSA PreCheck lines with their parent or guardian as long as the teen has the indicator on their boarding pass.
If you have a credit card that reimburses fees for TSA PreCheck, you can recoup the cost of your child’s application. Note that Clear continues to work to bring kids through until they turn 18.
Related: Why you should get TSA PreCheck and Clear — and how you can save on both
The days of squeezing two or three kids into one queen-size bed are probably long gone once they reach their teenage years. Not to mention, trying to have the whole family use one bathroom is an ordeal you likely won’t want to go through.
To keep the peace, consider reserving connecting hotel rooms.
With connecting rooms, you’ll have double the beds, bathrooms and storage space. Plus, teens and tweens will have the space and privacy they need without you being too far away to keep an eye on them.
Related: Big news for families: Hilton to guarantee adjoining rooms with ‘Confirmed Connecting Rooms’
At this age, kids are not just along for the ride. Give them some input (and independence) by allowing them to help plan your trip. Odds are they’ll be more engaged by being involved in the planning.
While planning trips with other families is a good strategy with elementary-age kids, by the time kids are teens, just bringing along one of their friends could be sufficient.
To keep the costs down, consider using an airline companion certificate to bring along that friend without spending extra.
If you are visiting a resort or destination where you may be going light on activities, lean into places that have a space just for teens.
Cruise ships are fantastic when it comes to this, as they often have kid-focused spaces divided into pretty distinct age ranges. For example, Disney Cruise Line has a club for kids ages 3 to 12, another for those between 11 and 14 and then one for teens ages 14 to 17.
By taking advantage of clubs that are broken up into designated age groups, your teen can have plenty of fun without the annoyance of hanging out with younger kids.
Related: Child turning 18? Here’s everything you need to know before the next time they travel
Some family travel tips transcend age groups.
Regardless of how old your kids are, where you’re traveling or how you’re getting to your vacation destination, there are a few tips you’ll always want to keep top of mind.
Airport lounges are becoming more and more kid-friendly, as they offer dedicated family rooms with toys and kids shows on TV, plus food that will please picky eaters. Additionally, if you have a long layover or are dealing with flight delays or cancellations, you’ll be much more comfortable waiting in a lounge instead of at your gate.
You can purchase a day pass to many lounges but may be able to get yourself and your family in for free with certain credit cards or airline status. For example, The Platinum Card® from American Express grants the cardmember and one guest complimentary access to Priority Pass lounges and access to Centurion and Escape lounges, though complimentary guest access depends on how much you spend annually.
Related: Best credit cards for airport lounge access
Similar to springing for connecting rooms, upgrading to a suite will buy you additional space and, sometimes, a pullout sofa that adds another sleeping option.
You’ll also have more room for your family’s belongings and areas for relaxing and dining so your kids don’t spend all their time jumping, eating and lounging on the beds.
If you have a membership to your local zoo or museum, you may be able to use reciprocal benefits for free or discounted entry to other zoos and museums that you can visit on vacation.
This information is usually available on your zoo or museum’s website, but you can also check lists on the Association of Zoos & Aquariums’ page about reciprocal admissions or on the North American Reciprocal Museum Association website.
There are so many unique travel souvenirs you can get that also serve as keepsakes for remembering your child’s travel “firsts.”
These Junior Frequent Flyer flight logbooks allow you to record your child’s flights while teaching them about aviation.
If a national park visit is in your future, order a standard or junior National Parks Passport and collect stamps every time you visit a new park.
When you are away from home, you have to be prepared for anything. That includes unexpected sicknesses and accidents.
Pack kid-safe and grown-up medicines, as well as Band-Aids, antibiotic ointment and other first-aid necessities in your carry-on bag so you won’t be without them if your checked luggage is delayed or lost.
If you are traveling between a cold climate and a hot one, pack a lightweight tote bag that can fold into your carry-on so you can easily gather up everyone’s coats once on the plane. By keeping this tote tucked away until you’re on board the aircraft, you’ll enjoy an extra allowed bag, saving you the headache of trying to determine where to put bulky coats.
Unlike TSA PreCheck, which allows kids to travel with an eligible adult until they turn 18 (in most cases), anyone wishing to use Global Entry to expedite reentry into the U.S. needs to apply for the program.
Global Entry can save valuable time spent waiting in line. However, you’ll need to apply well in advance of your trip so you have time to submit your application, complete an in-person interview and await approval.
Similar to TSA PreCheck, you can use a credit card that will reimburse your child’s Global Entry application fee.
It’s easy to miss, but many resorts, theme parks and cruise ships have a hidden layer of fun that ranges from traditional scavenger hunts to interactive activities you can unlock with an iPhone or similar device.
While the youngest travelers won’t benefit from these types of experiences, they can be fun for a variety of age ranges, especially elementary-age kids and tweens.
Related: Disney World rolls out all-new MagicBand+: Here’s what this wristband can do for your trip
Family travel has its own built-in challenges, but it also comes with immense rewards.
By knowing all the tips and tricks to traveling with kids, having the right gear with you, mapping out a game plan and having the right attitude and realistic expectations, you can have a memorable vacation every member of the family enjoys.
You may not get to do everything you want or sometimes feel like it’s more of a hassle than a vacation. However, if you’re willing to be flexible and appreciate when things go according to plan — even if the end result isn’t quite what you had hoped for — you’ll find yourself eager to book your next family trip before you have the bags unpacked and put away.
Related reading:
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]]>When starting anew, they don't use the phrase ‘clean slate' for nothing. As a matter of fact, when you're a DIYer, you tend to take this phrase quite literally—which is always a great thing! There's no better feeling than getting a fresh start without the unnecessary waste and mess in our lives! So, as Mother Nature gives the cue for starting over, be armed and ready with your personal cleaning checklist! Here are the ten crucial items you must include on your list.
At the top of my cleaning checklist is this ingenious coffee cup holder! Just attach to your wall some spray-painted wooden dowels stylishly glued together, and voila! Your mornings are clutter-free!
Who knew a vintage cigar box would make a great jewelry organizer? Folding some burlap inside the boxes is all it takes to finish this easy and simple DIY project. An organizing hack for your everyday necessities definitely belongs on your cleaning checklist!
Would it really be a cleaning checklist without a good DIY shelf? The name of this shelf basically explains how it's done: two boards of reclaimed wood drilled to the wall, fastened by vintage leather. It's perfect for displaying newfound items for spring!
Get ready for #Spring2017 with a beautiful but easy DIY clock! #DIYProjects #DIYReady https://t.co/XMXm7x4DD0 pic.twitter.com/bNrVLdW4aK
— DIY Projects (@DIYProjectsCom) February 28, 2017
Using a birdcage as a desk organizer? Who would've thought! The key to this DIY organizer is spray paint and wooden dowel rods! The best part is: this organizer is portable!
As much as we understand spring is a season of renewal, we tend to keep some old stuff from the past. If you don't want them displayed in your home, then this hidden storage should be on your cleaning checklist! Just glue together a couple of unused book spines, and you've got a secret hiding place.
Ladders aren't just for construction work anymore. They can now be used for organizing your stuff into a stylish and fashionable display. Just take this ladder display for example. Could you think of an easier way to declutter your space?
https://www.instagram.com/p/BuTYbNSn4b4/
This has got to be my favorite on this cleaning checklist! I'm excited to welcome spring because I have this amazing pegboard wall organizer. Just by drilling some wooden dowels onto a chosen size of plywood, you'll have an organizer for all kinds of stuff! Truly an investment not just for spring, but for an entire year of organizing!
Spring is also the season to try new recipes. For delicious and mouth-watering meals, you need fresh herbs and spices stored in this lovely spice jar storage! Can you believe all it takes is twisting a couple of wires and drilling nails on the wall? A must-try DIY project!
As we welcome spring, thoughts, events, and memories must be organized too! Get a couple of cork boards and paint them any way you want. I suggest painting your custom cork board in such a way that it grabs your attention every day.
If you're like me who can't stand articles of clothing lying around the house, this scarf hanger is the first thing you should make this spring. It doesn't even take much time: simply use some pliers to shape a line of wire into a hanger. Use a stretch of leather for embellishment.
Watch this video from kikomoda for more DIY items you can add to your cleaning checklist:
I'm sure going through this list has given you enough time to think about what needs to go and what needs to stay in your life. Don't think of cleaning as getting rid of stuff you might miss or need in the future. Cleaning is about one principle: keeping what's essential and important. The same could be said about life. Why waste time and energy on things which don't matter? And if there's any time to remind us of the value of a cleaning, it's spring. So welcome it with these amazing DIY projects on your cleaning checklist!
Which of these cleaning checklist items do you need the most right now? Let us know in the comments below!
Looking for more organizational DIY projects? Check out these Closet Organizer Ideas!
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Editor’s Note – This post was originally published in April 2014 and has been updated for quality and relevancy.
]]>Similar ones go for around $5 more elsewhere. Buy Now at eBay
See this bag?
It hangs over the back of my chair in the office.
Truth?
You never know where life is going to take you. A trip to the library. A walk around the lake. A coffee date that turns into a work date. A last-minute shopping trip.
And the amazing thing about this bag? It’s always ready for an adventure. It’s ready to go at a moment’s notice.
I’m always on the go and along the way I had to learn to be prepared.
So I filled this bag (and the bag before this bag and the bag before that) with my on-the-go essentials.
You know.
The kind of things that you didn’t know you needed until they weren’t there and then you wish that you had them.
Want to see what’s inside?
Here are 17 things I always take with me in this bag.
I had to start with this portable laptop stand.
It goes with me everywhere. I can’t even begin to tell you how much I love it. It folds flat and fits perfectly in the bag without taking up too much space. It puts your laptop at the perfect height for ZOOM calls. The stand allows your wrists to be at the perfect height when you are typing. I’ve used it at coffee shops and restaurants and my office and so many other places.
You can see the laptop stand here.
When I’m working or going for a walk my hair gets in my way. I also use them if I’m having a bad hair day and need to look cute for a ZOOM or lunch with a friend.
I found gold clips like these a couple of years ago and I love them.
My favorite one is the rectangle one at the top. It goes with me everywhere.
You can see the hair clips here.
A friend recommended this light and it’s kind of a game-changer.
You can clip it on your phone when you’re face-timing or on a ZOOM call.
You can clip the light on your laptop too. It’s so good and lights up your face and there are three different settings depending on the light around you. There are so many versions of this and I’ve tried several this clip on light is the best.
You can see the clip on video light here.
I wish I could tell you I was squared away enough to keep everything charged.
But I don’t.
Not even close. I keep a laptop charger in my bag (I have another one at my desk, too) along with a cord organizer to prevent tangled cables. This way, I can charge my laptop whenever I need to. I LOVE this collapsable charger organizer that attaches to the charger. All you have to do is pull it out and you can wind the charger cord around it to keep it organized in the bag.
You can see the collapsable charger organizer here.
When I was growing up we weren’t allowed to chew gum.
My mother was NOT about it (and still isn’t about it now).
So I never really got in the gum-chewing habit and mints taste too much like candy. So what’s a person who wants fresh breath to do? I found these Listerine strips. You just put one on your tongue and it melts and leaves behind fresh breath.
You can see the Listerine strips here.
You can thank me later for this one.
This No. 7 hand lotion is amazing. It’s not greasy, but not too creamy. It’s kind of thick and glides over the skin and adds a layer of protection. I always use it before a photo shoot so my hands look smooth and hydrated.
And it’s small enough to fit perfectly in the bag.
You can see the hand lotion here.
I use this portable charger all the time.
It’s so fast at charging my phone and it’s perfect for when you aren’t near an outlet—especially if you work in coffee shops all the time like me. I like this one because it lasts so long and it has multiple USB ports on either side. You can tell how much charge is left in the little window at the top.
You can see the portable charger here.
I am old school.
In a world of screens, I use a pen and paper. Having a small notebook like these in your bag can be incredibly useful for jotting down important notes, ideas, or to-do lists.
Having a dedicated space like this for putting down whatever I’m thinking helps me stay organized and I never forget anything.
You can see the notebooks here.
If I have a notebook, I have to have a pen.
And these are my favorite.
They glide and don’t leak (which is super important when you keep them in your bag).
You can see my favorite pens here.
I am a spiller with extra spills on top.
This Tide Pen is an amazing stain remover that gets rid of fresh stains on clothing or fabrics. I have one of these in my laundry room, my upstairs closet and my bag.
You can see the Tide Pen here.
Watching out for germs is more important than ever.
Carry a travel-sized hand sanitizer in your bag to keep germs at bay. This hand sanitizer spray from the Honest Company is made with aloe and other botanical extracts to prevent your skin from drying out. It has plant-derived ingredients and it isn’t sticky.
You can see the hand sanitizer here.
One thing you might forget about for your bag?
A mini pack of tissues. Whether it’s for wiping your hands, cleaning surfaces, or dealing with unexpected sneezes, tissues can come to the rescue. Choose a compact and easily resealable pack to keep them clean and easily accessible.
You can see the mini tissues here.
The best thing about this brush?
It folds up in half and is so compact that it’s easy to tuck into the pocket of your bag. It has a mirror on one side, but I like a compact mirror instead (see number 14 instead).
You can see the folding brush here.
Isn’t this the cutest compact mirror?
You never know when you’re going to need to fix something or put on lipstick or check to see if there’s anything in your teeth.
You can see the lighted compact mirror here.
I’ve been using these super affordable earbuds for four months now and I’m HOOKED. They don’t fall out. They have extra cushioning for the ear and they fit perfectly and the earbuds have different levels of sound depending on how much volume you need and they come in tons of colors. I’m never ever ever using another earbud. I have them in my bag and use them all the time to listen to audio books and music when I’m in a coffee shop.
And in amazing news? I have a 15% off code THISTLEWOOD.
You can see the headphones here.
Lint and pet hair on clothes can be so frustrating. A small lint roller like this can quickly remove fuzz from your clothes.
A roller like this will easily fit in your bag, but make sure you get one with a cover so you don’t waste so many of the peel-off strips.
And of course, it wouldn’t be a bag without red lipstick.
I have about seven of these red lipsticks that I keep everywhere including one in my bag.
My go-to red is Loreal British Red.
If I’m having a tough day? Nothing makes it brighter than a little red lipstick.
You can see my favorite red lipstick here.
And now you know what’s in the bag.
It’s packed and ready to go at a moment’s notice.
Just in case there’s an adventure waiting.
disclosure: affiliate links are used in this post.
The post 17 Amazingly Useful Things to Keep In Your Bag appeared first on Thistlewood Farm.
]]>Amazon Canada has great Deals, available now, where you can save up to 50% off.
Also, Amazon Canada has great offers that include:
Some of the above deals are “Lightning Deals” so they’re available for a few hours only!
Click here to view more Deals at Amazon Canada.
Amazon won’t keep this deal for long since it’s such a good price! The price will probably go back up soon so hurry up if you’re interested in buying it!
Amazon offers FREE shipping for all Prime members or FREE shipping on orders over $35.
Click here to view more Deals at Amazon Canada.
The post Amazon Canada Deals: Save 50% on Dehumidifiers for Home with Coupon & Promo Code + 50% on Kitchen Mat, 17″x59″ Non-Slip with Promo Code appeared first on Canadian Freebies, Coupons, Deals, Bargains, Flyers, Contests Canada.
]]>Maintaining your friendships is every bit as important as raising your children. It doesn’t matter if you are returning to an old activity or trying something new, your friendships may be the only thing maintaining your mental health.
With a little creativity and some good friends you can have so much fun, and not spend any money! I know, I know these days it’s hard to do anything without spending money but you can do things like:
Keep scrolling for a full list of free activities!
The need for this adult interaction is a fundamental part of keeping ourselves healthy and happy. That is why I put together a list of fun activities you and your friends can do together without breaking the bank!
Game night is a classic activity to do with your friends. There is just something so relaxing about having fun with your friends in the comfort of your home. If you are wanting to try some new games, check these out:
While spending time outdoors isn’t everybody’s idea of a relaxing time, I personally can’t think of a better way to recharge my batteries!
The beach is such a relaxing place for a lot of people. If you and your friends are of this mindset, why not embrace it?
Going for a bike ride is a great way to get some exercise as well as enjoy some amazing weather. Going out with your friends on these rides is a great way to enjoy some beautiful weather as well as spend a lot of quality time together.
Nothing says friendship like a little competition. Having a cookoff is a great way to have a night full of laughs while enjoying some amazing home-cooked food!
Tackling your spring cleaning is never a fun task. If you want to make it more enjoyable, why not involve your friends?
Taking turns tackling each other’s house gives you a few weeks of laughs while still being productive.
Getting together is not always easy. Different work schedules mean different free time. That’s what makes late-night bonfires the best compromise for hanging out with your friends!
The simplest ideas are sometimes the best. Getting together with your friends at someone’s house is often one of the easiest places to get together.
Movie night is a classic friends’ night activity. There is no better way to spend time together than lounging together with one of your favorite movies!
Snow may not be everyone’s favorite thing, but if you do enjoy it, it provides a fantastic form of entertainment. Going out with your friends and playing in the snow for a day can be one of the easiest and cheapest ways to get together and spend time with your friends.
If you and your friends have young kids, don’t fret! There are still plenty of ways to have fun with kiddos in tow.
I Spy is one of the best games you can play with your friends and their kids. It provides an opportunity to work on color, shape, and object recognition.
It also gives you the perfect way to keep little ones entertained without costing a cent!
Playing in the sprinkler at my grandmother’s house provided some of my favorite childhood memories.
Such a simple activity is guaranteed to keep kids entertained while keeping them cool in the summer heat. You and your friends can join in on the fun too!
Playing catch is such a great way to help little ones refine their gross motor skills. Throwing a frisbee, a ball, or even a balloon will definitely keep little ones happy and enjoying the outdoors.
Grab a mit with your friends and get outdoors!
Parades can be such a fun time! The excitement and variety can lead to some great memories, plus everyone gets to show off all of their cool toys!
Invite your friends and their kids to join in on the fun!
My son is obsessed with collecting rocks. If there was ever a free activity to keep future geologists happy, this would be it.
Go on a walk in a wilderness area, or even on a gravel road, and you’re definitely going to find something everyone wants to keep. Just make sure to take a bag with you!
Blanket forts are some of the best ways to entertain children, and who says you can’t have fun too? You can also let them try to design the fort themselves to help them learn about structural integrity to give them some unnoticed learning!
If you need help remembering how to make a good blanket fort, check out these blogs!
As a pro tip – build the fort and then enjoy some quiet time with friends while the kids enjoy! Ha!
Pack lunch or snacks and head to a nearby playground for a fun and free picnic. Kids can enjoy playing on the swings, slides, and climbing structures while adults relax and chat.
It’s a great opportunity for kids to socialize and burn off some energy.
Many libraries offer free storytime sessions for young children. Check your local library’s schedule and attend a session with your friends and their kids.
Storytime often includes reading books, singing songs, and engaging in interactive activities that promote early literacy skills.
Set up a craft station at home or in a local park and let the kids unleash their creativity. Provide materials like paper, markers, crayons, glue, and scissors.
Encourage them to create artwork, make collages, or even build their own sculptures using natural materials like sticks and leaves.
Organize a movie night under the stars for a memorable evening with friends and their kids. Set up a projector and screen in your backyard or a nearby park, bring blankets and snacks and enjoy a family-friendly movie together.
It’s a cozy and entertaining experience for everyone.
Explore different playgrounds in your community with your friends and their kids. Each week, choose a new playground to visit and let the kids have a blast trying out different equipment and making new friends.
Engage the little scientists in your group with fun and educational science experiments. There are numerous online resources that provide easy and inexpensive experiments using everyday household items.
From homemade volcanoes to exploring static electricity, these hands-on activities will spark curiosity and learning and are a great way to have fun with friends.
Choose a sunny day and set up an impromptu music and dance party in a park or your backyard. Bring along a portable speaker and create a playlist of everyone’s favorite songs. Let them show off their dance moves and enjoy some joyful and energetic moments together.
Organize a cultural exploration day where each family brings a dish or snack representing their heritage. Set up a mini “food fair” where everyone can sample and learn about different cuisines.
You can also include cultural games, traditional music, and stories to make the experience more immersive and educational.
Spending time with your friends that have older kids can be fun and productive. There are lots of different options, plus the older kids have more stamina for adventures than littler ones!
Hiking is a great activity to do with older kids. Hiking gives them a chance to stretch their legs and maybe participate in a race!
You can choose a slightly more difficult trail to conquer which is fun for everyone!
Cookies are always a hit with kids. If you don’t know what to do to spend time when your friends have older children, pulling them into the kitchen to help bake some yummy cookies can be the perfect solution.
Tea parties are a great way to spend time together and do something different. With older kids, you might get to use that fancy China that’s gathering dust.
You can have everyone make some yummy desserts together and get dressed up which would be so fun! Whether you are simply pretending or drinking real tea, you have a great opportunity to let your friends and their kids try something new!
How to Throw a Lovely Tea Party for Kids
I think it is so much fun to get together with friends and their families. Some of my fondest memories as an adult is my family spending time with our friends and their families.
Time capsules are always neat. It’s the perfect way to remind yourself of what was important in your life at that time.
Everyone can add a little something to a time capsule and then when all the kids are graduated you can dig it up and reminisce.
Playing dodgeball can be so much fun. Just swap out the balls for water balloons for some great summer fun.
This is a great way to keep everyone in the family nice and cool.
Scavenger hunts are such a great way to have fun with friends, and bonus(!) they are kid friendly! You can do an in-home hunt on bad weather days or an outdoor hunt when the weather is beautiful.
I love doing scavenger hunts with friends. If you have some kids that are older and some that are younger, you can pair up an older child with a younger one.
Everyone has set up dominoes just to knock them down. Using dominoes or other objects can make for some great patterns!
You can make teams and have a friendly competition.
The wonders of the universe have always baffled humanity. If you are having a night outside, travel away from the city and glimpse at the innumerable stars in the night sky!
See if you can spot things like the big digger, little dipper, and Orion’s belt!
Clouds are nature’s kaleidoscope.
Just take a blanket to lay on to your local park and you have the perfect activity that the whole family will enjoy!
Working at the car wash! One way to make washing the car fun is to do it together. Getting everyone working together can make a task like washing cars fun.
Who knows, maybe it will turn into a family vs family water fight!
Wind chimes can be such a great gift or household accessory. Get the family and your friends together to make some beautiful wind chimes!
Organize a friendly sports tournament or game day in a local park. Play games like soccer, basketball, frisbee, or volleyball.
It’s a great way to promote physical activity, teamwork, and friendly family competition with friends.
Organize a potluck-style outdoor cooking and BBQ party. Each family can bring their favorite ingredients, and together you can prepare and grill delicious meals.
It’s a chance to bond over food, share recipes, and enjoy a tasty feast together.
Host a DIY karaoke night at home. Set up a makeshift stage area, select a variety of songs, and take turns belting out your favorite tunes.
It’s a great opportunity for laughter, entertainment, and showcasing your hidden vocal talents.
Grab your smartphones or cameras and embark on a photography exploration adventure. Choose a theme or focus for the day, such as capturing architectural details, nature close-ups, or street scenes.
Walk around your neighborhood or a nearby picturesque location, capturing unique and beautiful shots along the way.
Gather a collection of board games and host a board game extravaganza. Set up different game stations and let the kids and adults rotate between them.
From classic board games like Monopoly and Scrabble to modern strategy games, it’s a perfect opportunity for friendly competition, strategizing, and laughter.
We love our kids, but sometimes adult time is much needed. If you are on a strict budget or just want to challenge yourself to do free activities with friends, these are for you!
Spending time with your friends without the kids around is always a blessing, but you may not know what to do with this time. If you want to do something that can be useful, why not learn a language together?
Who doesn’t like to be pampered? Unfortunately, we may not have the ability or the financial stability to go to a spa. That is why having an at-home spa day with your friends is the perfect kid-free activity!
Sometimes you just get tired of the way your house looks. One way to remedy this problem is to get together with your friends and swap decorations. Bring everything together and spend some time redecorating everyone’s houses!
Most people don’t want to spend their time off doing more work. However, volunteering comes in many different forms. Just do an online search for some ways to volunteer in your area and decide what you and your friends want to do to help the community.
Brunch gets a bad reputation from a lot of people and influencers. Don’t let that stop you! If you and your friends want to get together and have brunch, host them at your house or maybe alternate houses and enjoy each other’s company over some great food!
Book clubs aren’t just for the elderly and empty nesters. Spending time together talking about a book everyone is reading through is a great way to spend time together. The best part is that the meeting location doesn’t have to be the same every time.
Some people love the look of older and antique items to decorate their homes. If this is you, looking through a bunch of antique shops is a great activity for you. If not, it is still interesting to look through these antique shops to see what your parents and grandparents used and played with when they were younger.
Sometimes your wardrobe needs a few new items. If you don’t want to go out and just buy some new clothes, get together with your friends and closet shop! This is a great way to change your look and wardrobe without having to spend any money!
Every now and again, you just need to have an excuse for enjoying some of your favorite appetizers. Having an appetizer party is the perfect chance for everyone to bring some of their favorite appetizers and just hang out!
You don’t have to be in the market for a house to go to open houses. Sometimes it is just nice to get out and see something new. You can also use your visits for ideas on how to improve or change the feel of your own home!
When friends are visiting from out of town, it’s nice to show them around and make fun memories! See some fun and free ideas below!
If you have a friend from out of town visiting, showing them the sites is the perfect way to spend time together. Taking them on a tour of the city is a great way to spend the day together while seeing something new!
Poker doesn’t have to be about money. Just playing to play can be every bit as fun as any board game. The benefit of poker night is that you don’t have to “finish” the game to declare a winner if you want to declare a winner at all.
Taking someone from out of town to the local shops to window shop can be such a fun experience! There may not be much difference in styles between your cities, or there may be a huge difference. Just getting out there and spending that time together will be a great way to catch up.
The digital era has made sharing pictures much easier. However, you just can’t beat an old fashion photo album. Get together with a bunch of pictures and compile a photo album of the past year so you can look at how everyone’s families have grown side by side!
You don’t have to stay home when your friends come to visit. Sometimes a visit to nature is the perfect way to catch up. Hitting the camp grounds can be such a fun and rewarding experience for everyone involved!
You don’t have to be in the same city to do an activity together. Some activities, such as a reading contest or race, can be just as enjoyable as going out and getting lunch.
Not everyone has the money to spend on concert tickets. Luckily, some cities host free concerts for the public. Just check online before your friend comes to your city and see what is happening in your area.
Karaoke is always a fun way to spend time with your friends. Having an at-home karaoke night give you the enjoyment of great food/drinks as well as the fun of karaoke without leaving the comfort of your home or dealing with the potential “weird” people in public.
The local wildlife can be a great source of entertainment for you and your friends. If they are from out of town, their local wildlife may be vastly different than you own.
People watching is a very esoteric form of amusement. It isn’t for everyone, but sitting in a mall or park and watching everyone around you can give your mind the creative outlet you need to relax. Take turns naming and describing everyone you see and you’ll have hours of fun!
In this day and age, things are rarely free. It takes a lot of creativity to find something free to do. Here are answers to some burning questions you may have.
There are lots of options of things that can be done with friends that are board. When my friends are bored I like to go outside, explore our city, take a walk or hike..things like that!
One of my favorite things to do with friends is sit outside and chat. This is great because you just get to be with friends, laughing, telling stories and having a good time.
With a little creativity and determination, you can do so many free things for fun. Whether it’s a movie night or exploring the city, you can have free fun!
All in all, there are tons of ways to have fun with friends that are completely free! Did I miss any of your favorite ideas? Let me know in the comments below!
The post 55+ Free Things to Do With Friends Today appeared first on Just Simply Mom.
]]>Amazon Canada has great Deals, available now, where you can save up to 50% off.
Also, Amazon Canada has great offers that include:
Some of the above deals are “Lightning Deals” so they’re available for a few hours only!
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Amazon won’t keep this deal for long since it’s such a good price! The price will probably go back up soon so hurry up if you’re interested in buying it!
Amazon offers FREE shipping for all Prime members or FREE shipping on orders over $35.
Click here to view more Deals at Amazon Canada.
The post Amazon Canada Deals: Save 33% on Under Desk Treadmill with Coupon + 50% on Storage Bins Closet Storage Baskets with Coupon & Promo Code appeared first on Canadian Freebies, Coupons, Deals, Bargains, Flyers, Contests Canada.
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Designer: Molo Design
Accordion Style Paper Room Divider: Molo’s paper room divider is a flexible space partition that can be shaped into many formations. The accordion-style design expands up to 15 feet and compresses into the thickness of a book for storage. Sculptural, sound-absorbing, and magnetically modular, this room divider builds a unique backdrop for events, performances, and large homes alike.
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Visualizer: Mohamed Elasar
Panel Room Divider: Modular room divider panels can be adapted to any room width. These transparent panels divide the zones of a large living space without severing its impressive proportions.
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Visualizer: Viktoriya Romanova
Arched Room Dividers: Another floor-to-ceiling screening solution, this time with an en vogue arched aesthetic. The rotating function of these full-height room dividers means that you can decide how much privacy or light control you desire according to the time of day.
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Source: Inhabit Living
Hanging Room Divider: Use a bright, hanging room divider to add an instant splash of color to your home. Aqua blue panels create a beachy atmosphere even if you’re a hundred miles from the sea.
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Visualizer: Leonid Sizikov
Built-in Room Divider: Built-in, custom room dividers offer a long-term, sturdy solution that won’t fall over, tear, or flap in a strong breeze. Light permeable designs maintain a subtle visual link between the separated areas.
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Visualizer: NM Interior
Room Divider With Door: An edge-to-edge decorative screen with an integrated doorway builds a beautifully lightweight aesthetic. Rooms are completely separate but borrowed light prevails.
Folding Metal Room Divider: Perk up a plain wall or a disused corner with a folding metal room divider. These weighty screens also provide a quick solution for drawing a boundary between an open-plan home entryway and a living room.
Accordion Room Divider: Another decorative metal screen that serves as art for the home, this glamorous design is made from high-quality iron and sparkling acrylic beads.
Industrial Style Sculptural Room Divider: An awesome home addition for cycling enthusiasts! Reclaimed bicycles from Indonesia construct this industrial, sculptural design that is sure to be a conversation piece.
Plant Room Divider: Vines grow from a planter in the base of this desk to produce a live living room divider. An uplifting zoning solution for a home workspace or a commercial space.
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Visualizer: Suit house Studio
Glass Room Divider: Sometimes you want to dial down the noise without compromising on natural light or visual space. A glass partition offers an all-round solution.
Sliding Panel Room Divider: This versatile track system can be used as a room divider, a closet door, or a window treatment. The 4-rail track is adjustable from 45.8″ to 86″ wide, and the panels can be trimmed to any length.
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Visualizer: Elshad Kerimov
Sliding Glass Room Divider: Glass panels give this room divider solution a wonderfully lightweight look, while fluted texture gently distorts the adjacent space.
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Visualizer: Hagar Salem
Tension Rod Room Dividers: Tension rods anchor these room divider panels in place, making them a slimline solution for compact spaces. The panels can slip into a narrow gap between a dining area and the back of a sofa, leaving no protruding stands to trip over.
Modern Style Room Divider: Using a cordless 4-rail track system, this room divider makes a flexible zoning solution that can also be used as window shades. Trim to height and attach the base bars for a custom finish.
Decorative Hanging Room Divider: A floral motif and black finish give this hanging room divider a classic look. 12 individual PVC panels allow the design to be assembled to the length and configuration of your choosing.
8 ft Sliding Track Room Divider: Woven with a natural blend of 61% paper and 39% poly, this 8ft sliding track system works well in both modern and traditional settings. The woven panels attach with Velcro and are easy to clean with a microfiber duster or vacuum attachment.
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Muhammed Shahin[TAG7]BUY IT
Rotating TV Mount Room Divider: Enjoy watching TV in 2 rooms with just one screen, using a room divider with a rotating TV mount. Suspended from the ceiling, the TV housing unit has a floating appearance, which leaves room underneath for a modern fireplace.
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Visualizer: Irada Allahverdiyeva
TV Wall Room Divider: This modern room divider features a rotating TV mount at prime viewing height, while a frame of open shelving provides extra storage and display space.
Media Console Room Divider: Low and linear, this wooden media console unit suggests a separation of space without causing a tall obstruction. A built-in, slender TV stand rotates the screen to face wherever it’s wanted in an open-plan living space.
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Visualizer: Elemental Design
TV Stand Room Divider: This TV stand is perfectly proportioned to divide a sitting area from a kitchen. Its sturdy depth resembles a kitchen island, while its curved, racetrack-shaped silhouette makes it easy to maneuver around.
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Visualizer: Oleh Vynarchyk
Wooden Room Divider: Chunky wooden beams build a room divider with an imposing presence. This floor-to-ceiling design makes an attractive rustic backdrop for the TV and a solid partition between the lounge area and the home entryway.
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Visualizer: Shexia Space Design
Block room divider: Similar to glass blocks, a modular cube room divider builds a uniform, stacked appearance that allows light to flow straight through. A smart aesthetic for commercial office spaces.
Room Divider With Chalkboard Panels: Embellish a chalkboard room divider with your own designs, or use the panels to record important notes, telephone messages, weekly menus, or shopping lists.
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Visualizer: Kamran Karimov
Muxarabi screen: A decorative muxarabi screen is as beautiful as it is functional. It becomes the artwork in the room, it is a portal of light in adjoining spaces, and it is a gatekeeper of zones.
Personalized Room Divider: Letter blocks slot into this perforated room divider to create a design that is as unique as you are. It also includes an integrated wooden bench in its base, which serves both sides of the partition.
5 Foot White Pegboard Room Divider: We all need extra storage space, so a pegboard room divider makes perfect sense. Simply attach standard pegboard hooks to hang hats, jewelry, bags, cooking utensils, or even decorative elements. A foldable pegboard also makes a nifty companion for displaying and selling items at craft fairs and boutiques.
Van Gogh Irises And Starry Night Room Divider: Fans of Vincent Van Gogh won’t be able to resist these folding masterpieces. Choose from Starry Night or Irises.
Van Gogh Almond Blossoms Room Divider: This room divider is bound to please fans of Van Gogh and Japanese art alike. Elegant almond blossoms grow across a striking teal background, which has a waterproof coating to make it splash-resistant.
Gustav Klimt ‘The Kiss’ Room Divider: “The Kiss” by Gustav Klimt shimmers with gold leaf in its original form. Unfortunately, this art print room divider does not have the same rich coating, but it does have mesmerizing color and an air of romance.
Japanese Shoji Screen Style Folding Room Divider: Build a Japanese-style interior with an authentic looking Shoji screen room divider.
Asian Style Folding Room Divider With Floral Prints: This Asian-style folding room divider features delicate floral prints that complement a feminine bedroom decor scheme, a sunlight-filled conservatory, or a pretty garden room.
Japanese Plum Blossom Printed Folding Room Divider: Red blossoms paint a fiery pattern across this Japanese plum blossom printed folding room divider. Black outlines depict a traditional Shoji screen.
Mid Century Modern Style Room Divider: Complete a bold mid-century modern home interior with a geometric room divider. Made with quality paulownia wood and two-way hinges, this sturdy piece can be folded in either direction.
Rustic Folding Room Divider: Wood louver panels give this folding room divider a rustic appearance, which looks at home in a relaxed living room, dining room, bedroom, or study.
Bamboo Room Divider: Sustainable bamboo panels and a pine wood frame make this room divider an environmentally-friendly option. Its natural tone melds with most color schemes, which means that you can relocate it around the house as desired.
Solid Wood Folding Room Divider: Six panels of pale paulownia wood stretch this slatted room divider to a length of 94.5”. The freestanding louver screen folds up when not in use to save space.
Modern Farmhouse Style Room Divider: Add instant modern farmhouse appeal without having to install barn doors! Simply unfold this farmhouse-style room divider and you’re good to go.
Foldable Open Bookcase Room Divider: Get yourself an instant bookcase without any DIY plans or materials involved! Simply fold out four hinged frames and slide in three removable shelves.
Folding Room Divider With Shelves: This shelved room divider has a filled-in louver backdrop, making it perfect for building privacy.
Curtain Room Divider: Simple but effective, a curtain room divider on a tension rod is relatively cheap to buy and easy to install.
Portable Room Divider With Wheels: A room divider on wheels provides ultimate portability. Forget straining your back every time you need to shade an open-plan living space from the sun or glean some privacy, simply push and glide.
Patterned Hanging Room Divider: Snap-fit high-density polyester pieces into a stunning 3D art piece and room divider. An intriguing piece to elevate a large living room, hotel lobby, bar, or school reception area…
… Incorporate different colored felt pieces to achieve dazzling designs.
Sound Proof Room Divider: Manage acoustics with this sound absorbing room divider. A superb solution for combined workspaces.
Open Bookcase Room Divider: 5 tiers of open shelves and 2 concealed cabinets make this bookcase room divider a valuable piece of furniture for storage and display.
Large Industrial Style Open Bookshelf Room Divider: Black metal framework and roomy wooden shelves construct a rustic room divider that looks best filled with books and vintage treasures.
Black Steel Brass And Wood Room Divider Bookshelf: Handcrafted from brass, black steel, and wood, this exquisite room divider is custom-made to order.
Floral PVC Room Divider: Intricate flower patterns fill this modular, PVC room divider with charm. A black finish gives the cheerful design a bold presence.
Arched Boho Style Room Divider: Looking like a piece of elaborate vintage lace, this arched, hand-carved boho room divider has a distressed whitewashed finish with metallic gold accents.
Bohemian Style Macrame Curtain Room Divider: Add bohemian charm to your interior with a macramé curtain room divider. This environmentally-friendly product is made from sustainable 100% cotton, which is also biodegradable.
Rattan Sunflower Patterned Room Divider: Naturally grown rattan is used to form this delightful sunflower room divider design, which is sure to add a touch of summer to a living space or bedroom.
Recommended Reading: A Sleek Apartment That Divides Rooms Creatively
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When you are searching for cute travel outfits for summer, the first thing you need to do is to figure out where you are going. One of my biggest travel tips when it comes to packing is to plan out outfits for each day and the activities you will be doing on your travels.
For instance, if you are traveling to a warm weather, beachy destination, you are going to want to pack light clothing - hello, sundresses!! If that location is cooler at night, you may want to include a light denim jacket in your list of summer travel clothes.
If you are planning to have an active vacation that will include activities like hiking, biking, or participating in other outdoor activities, a sundress won't really do now, will it?
In this case, your outfits for traveling should include things like denim shorts, or khaki shorts, tank tops, and light cotton blend shirt. You might want to throw your sneakers in the bag too!
One of my best travel outfits for summer is a pair of chinos and a tank top, with a lightweight cardigan for those chilly indoor restaurants.
Are you looking for more travel tips for women? Check these out!
And as everyone knows...I do not leave the house without my TOMS and REEF sandals! Both TOMS and Reef sandals are cute and stylish, and they are just so versatile! No matter what cute traveling outfits I plan on wearing, these shoes can be worn with practically ANY outfit for summer.
They are just so incredibly comfortable that you can wear them everywhere! I have worn both TOMS and Reef shoes everywhere from the beach to spending 12 hoours walking the streets of Rome, to walking around Walt Disney World all day.
Click here to shop TOMS.com!I have been wearing Reef sandals since my obsession with surfer culture back in the 90s...this is one brand that has stood the test of time!
30 years later and I wear my Reef Reef Cushion Vista Higher Sandals as well as my tried and true Reef Women's Stargazer Sandals all the time!
You can get them both from Amazon!
Now let's talk about what we are going to wear on the plane! One of the first things you should put on your packing list is the outfit that you will wear while traveling to your destination.
When you are deciding on which airplane outfits summer requires, keep in mind that planes can go from super hot and stuffy to absolutely freezing!
I love wearing a lightweight midi dress for short flights with a lightweight sweater - just in case it is cold on the plane! If I am taking a long flight, I usually wear leggings, a nice, flowy tunic and my TOMS.
You can also just wear biker shorts under a tunic. Just make sure that you have a sweater with you, as sometimes they crank up the AC!
I love this Merokeety cardigan from Amazon. I've taken it all over the world and also wore it when I was working in a day job last year.
It is so versatile and comes in so many different colors! I took it with me on my trip to Barcelona in April, and it was the perfect thickness for those cooler shady spots.
It is also great for hiding your belly after stuffing yourself with one of the best hamburgers you've ever had...
These stylish travel clothes for summer also make great day trip outfits if you are just doing a quick trip somewhere! Now, let's talk about the summer travel fashion you should pack for once you actually arrive at your destination!
I love this summer tunic with pockets for wearing with leggings. It is so cute, and hello - IT HAS POCKETS!! This is a fun look for wearing on the beach as a cover up too, or you can even dress it up with heels and a big statement necklace to wear at night.
You can wear this casual top with leggings this summer, or make it fall and winter friendly with jeans and boots and a jacket or a cardigan! It is perfect for any trip you are taking or even for hanging out around the house or going shopping, out to lunch, whatever!
It is available in size small to XXXL, and is a simple pull over dress style.
While we are talking about our summer travels and versatility, let's talk about the weather, shall we? While we might all pack our sunhat out of habit during the summer, sometimes we forget about those pesky summer showers!
I can't tell you how many times I have had to run in and buy an umbrella while vacationing during the summer months. Make sure to add a travel umbrella to your packing list this summer along with your summer travel outfits!
[TAG11]We like this HERO Travel Umbrella because it is windproof, compact and portable. Just throw it into your backpack or carryon and you will be prepared for any weather while you're on vacation!
Right now HERO is offering my readers a 15% discount, so grab one before it's too late! Use PROMO code BUHERO15 when you check out.
This premium, compact umbrella is perfect for daily use or while traveling the world, featuring 9 resin-reinforced fiberglass ribs that are designed to withstand big wind gusts with flexible stability for reliable rain protection.
At only 12” long and weighing less than 1lb, it’s small enough to fit in most car gloveboxes, large purses, briefcases, or backpacks, and our storage case lets you pack away a wet umbrella without worrying about your other belongings getting wet.
The HERO Travel umbrella not only provides 25% more rain coverage than other compact umbrellas, it is also coated in Teflon for extra waterproof defense.
I love the elegant ruffle design of this mini dress with pockets! It is so flattering and cute, making it perfect the perfect addition to your travel summer outfits.
This lightweight mini dress features a vneck, drawstring, cap sleeve and solid color. It is classic and easy to pair with sandals during the day or heels at night!
You can pair the dress with sandals, shoes, handbag, hat, a big, bold statement necklace too. You can get this mini dress with pockets for under $30!
This KIRUNDO Summer Chiffon Shift Dress is also really cute, and very similar in style. It is available in sizes S through XXL and it cut that so that it is very flattering!
This sexy maxi dress is great for day time AND night, so it's one of our favorite summer travel outfit ideas. When you are planning a trip to somewhere new, you likely want to save a little space for shopping the local goods, right? When picking out your summer outfits for women this year, try to add items to your packing list that can be worn day OR night.
This simple yet sexy maxi dress is available in size S through XL, making it a great option for many women.
This sexy maxi dress is great for day time AND night, so it's one of our favorite summer travel outfit ideas. When you are planning a trip to somewhere new, you likely want to save a little space for shopping the local goods, right?
When picking out your summer outfits for women this year, try to add items to your packing list that can be worn day OR night.
This simple yet sexy maxi dress is available in size S through XL, making it a great option for many women.
I think that this Square Neck Smocked Floral Dress is just PERFECT for any summer adventure. It just screams fun in the sun, doesn't it?
Now let's talk about my new favorite thing!! This ANRABESS One Shoulder High Waist Romper with Pockets is currently on its way to me and I can't wait to wear it this summer!
This summer romper is available in size S through XL and comes in FIFTEEN different colors! Talk about versatility! I ordered the Peach one, but I am likely going to order the black one too once it arrives and I make sure that it fits me well!
You are planning your summer travel outfits, make sure that you pack a travel purse too! I have a few dedicated travel purses that I SWEAR BY!
I just got back from a week in Barcelona with Nick and I used the Kedzie Coast to Coast Crossbody Bag so much! This purse can be carried over the shoulder or cross the body. Perfect for keeping your personal belongings: wallet, eyeglass holder, keys, cell phone, credit cards or passport.
Kedzie crossbody bags for women are perfect for any occasion - whether you are going to a party, heading to work, or traveling, they are your perfect daily companion to wear over your shoulder or as a sling bag.
It comes in three colors. One thing I really love about the Kedzie Coast to Coast bag is that the straps are interchangeable! I love that you can spice up your look!
It measures 7.75”W x 5.5”H x 2.5”D. It is large enough to hold your wallet, phone, portable charger, keys, etc - it even fit my cigarettes! This weather-friendly bag is durable & lightweight for everyday use and you can even wash it!
The Luna Crossbody bag is perfect to tote around for your daily warm weather activities. Although this stunning half-moon silhouette with pebbled vegan leather is available in marigold, black, mauve and sky blue, you’ll never want to phase it out by mixing and matching adorable interchangeable straps ($24 - $25) like the adorable floral Full Bloom or Rosewood straps!
For weekends, work, travel, errands, and loving life, Kedzie creates 100% vegan bags, wallets, and straps designed to make every day easier and every look yours. Each collection is custom curated with trending prints, timeless neutrals, and built-in organization ideal for mixing, matching, and multiplying every outfit in your closet.
You can find both of these Kedzie purses on Amazon!
No matter where you are traveling to this summer, be sure to bring a sun hat! Wallaroo Hats has a packable, lightweight fashionable sun hat that is specifically made for sun protection.
Specializing in UPF-protective headwear, Wallaroo Hats received the Skin Cancer Foundation’s seal of recommendation for adequate sun protection, meaning each style has a UPF rating of at least 30+ and a minimum brim width of three inches.
This protects skin from 96-97.5% of the sun’s harmful rays, ideal for hot days spent outdoors. Styles like the Kristy and Aria are a few hats that would be a great option for a useful, yet fashionable hat to take with you during your travels. I love that it is packable and doesn't get ruined in my suitcase or backpack!
So, where are you going this summer? And what are you wearing?!
If you love these Summer Travel Outfits as much as we do, please leave me a 5-star review below and help me share this helpful travel resource on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest!
ARE YOU CRAVING MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES AND TRAVEL INSPIRATION? Subscribe to my newsletter and follow along on Pinterest, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram for all the latest updates! Sign up below to receive my newsletter filled with delicious recipes, fun crafts, and family adventures straight into your inbox:The post Summer Travel Outfits appeared first on The Rebel Chick.
]]>Chances are, you’ve used a Coleman stove or cooler. The brand’s history dates back to 1900 when W.C. Coleman invented the first portable gas-powered lantern. In the following decades, Coleman diversified its product offerings, branching into several outdoor categories. The brand began making coolers, tents, and sleeping bags and even dabbled in the snowmobile market.
Fast forward to the present day, and Coleman is still making a variety of gear for the outdoors, especially camping gear.
Coleman is hosting a Memorial Day sale May 19-29. So if you’re looking for new gear, you can save up to 30% before Memorial Day ends and the unofficial start of camping season begins.
Shop NowPeak1 is Coleman’s collection of premium backpacking gear. This new mummy sleeping bag is temperature-rated down to 20 F and boasts a 650-fill power with RDS Certified Duck Down. The shell and liner fabrics are both ripstop nylons, it has a sleeping pad sleeve, and a DWR treatment,
To help trap heat, this sleeping bag uses the brand’s Thermolock draft tube, a form-fitting hood, and a baffle at the neck.
A long version is also available.
Shop NowThis two-burner propane grill is designed to travel. It has collapsible steel legs and off-road wheels designed for easy packing and maneuverability, so you can set it up at the campsite and grill like you’re at home.
The iron grilling surface measures 285 square inches with a porcelain coating. There’s a push-button ignition and dials to control your heat on each burner. At full blast, it produces 20,000 BTUs of grilling power. You can even swap one grill grate for a griddle or stove grate (sold separately).
Its travel-minded design also makes it compact enough to store in a shed or patio closet at home.
Shop NowHere’s an LED nod to Coleman’s heritage as a lantern maker. On high, the lantern can shine 800 lumens in an 18m beam. It can also dim down to 300 lumens or 100 lumens for more modest tasks. Runtimes vary from 5 hours on high to 45 hours on low.
The Recharge stores its own recharge cord (USB to USB-C) in the base and it can charge other devices while it’s running. The shell is water-resistant and it’s drop resistant from a meter. It also has a traditional bail handle with a built-in carabiner for easy, secure hanging.
Shop NowThis is a bestseller and a 3-in-1 upgrade to the brand’s regular two-burner Cascade model. The bells and whistles include removable cast-iron grill and griddle accessories to be able to cook a wider variety of dishes. It has a quick ignition knob as well as two adjustable burners for cooking different things at the same time.
Additionally, this model has a recessed carry handle, removable cast-iron pan support, and aluminized steel cooktop for quicker cleanup.
Shop NowThis backpack cooler can keep drinks cold for 24 hours and hold up to 30 cans. Of course, that’s the max capacity, so you may want to even out that ice-to-drink ratio. The pack’s molded base helps it sit on the ground and keep its shape.
Outside, the backpack has several four-way stretch pockets for carrying items you may want during a day trip or hike. An expanding zippered pocket on one side can secure your wallet, keys, and other essentials. On the other side, a stretch mesh pocket is sized to hold a water bottle. Lastly, the large back panel pocket can fit an extra layer or your favorite magazine.
Shop NowColeman claims that its Convoy Series Coolers are made for day trips, long-haul adventures, and everything in between. This 100-quart wheeled version is sized to hold food and drinks for the whole campsite or tailgate. It can hold 81 cans with 54 pounds of ice.
The cooler has a fully insulated lid and body and the brand’s TempLock FX technology, which can hold ice for days. The lid’s leakproof gasket can keep cold air from escaping.
This is an oversized cooler, but Coleman says it’s twice as light as similar-sized rotomolded coolers. For transporting, the Convoy has a large metal handle and rugged wheels for hauling. Other notable features include stainless steel hardware, heavy-duty latches, and rope handles with grips.
Shop NowThis deck chair is a streamlined take on traditional outdoor furniture. It has a steel frame to support up to 250 pounds and a seat made from polyester to hold up for seasons of use.
It’s at home in the backyard or the campsite, and can be packed up into its own carry bag when it’s time to move on or store. There’s even a cup holder to fit a Coleman tumbler.
Shop NowThis screened dome is designed for bug-free lounging. The Skyshade 10 x 10 fits over a picnic table so you can keep the flies and other pests off your food. There are two doors so you can come and go from either side.
Setting up consists of sliding fiberglass poles through sleeves on the dome’s exterior and securing them into corner pockets.
Shop NowA simple twist-cap valve allows air in from a corner to self-inflate the pad. The pad’s bottom is PVC coated to resist abrasions, while the foam and 75-denier polyester offer a softer outer layer on top. The insulated foam offers warmth with an R-value of 5+.
It is sized to fit adults up to 5’11” and weighs less than 4 pounds. It rolls up with straps to hold it in place and make it easier to carry with you.
Shop NowThe Skydome tent is shaped to maximize headroom and storage space beneath its peak and under the full awning, aka the screen room. Pre-attached poles help Coleman claim a 5-minute setup time after the initial setup.
The weatherproof screen room means you can sit in your favorite chair under the awning to ride out a rain storm or rest in the shade. It allows you to get plenty of air and keep out bugs without hiding in your tent. At night, you can pull gear inside the screen room to protect it from the elements.
The tent’s entry is an oversized main door for easier passage than traditional camping tents.
Should the weather turn blustery, Coleman’s Weathertec System can resist rain and withstand winds up to 35 mph. The tent’s tub-like floor, taped seams, and welded corners can all help keep water out.
Shop NowThese are some of our picks for new and classic camping goods that are on sale during the Memorial Day Sale. If you see something you like, act now. These prices expire after May 29.
There are other models and sizes to check out, too. For instance, the Peak1 mummy bag comes with different temperature ratings, and the coolers come in several sizes.
Explore the entire Coleman Memorial Day Sale to see what else is marked down as much as 30%.
Shop NowThis article is sponsored by Coleman. Check out the brand’s camping and outdoor gear currently on sale.
The post Coleman Camp Sale: Memorial Day Deals on Camping Gear appeared first on GearJunkie.
]]>Since a very young age, I have been curious about how things work. Thanks to my dad, my curiosity was satiated with an ample supply of tools and knowledge. In 6th grade, I got my first experience with a soldering iron and it all took off from there. Very quickly, I set up a work bench to do my projects on. Over the years, the working setup improved, moved and evolved.
The electronics lab bench has been optimized over the years and redesigned to fit in a smaller space. Its very functional, customized and economical. I use high quality tools but only where it makes sense. Most of the products I use, I have used for a while and have tested other cheaper alternatives, only to land on the current one. Some, I am still figuring out the best version of.
In this article, I will dive deep into every part of my workbench and show you the structure, organization, tools and parts I have collected over the years. The idea is that with this guide, my bench can be replicated with the same functionality in minimal time. Lets get into it. Feel free to navigate to parts you are interested in.
The bench is built using a 78″x24″ table top from Ikea and two Alex drawers to support it. The grey matt on the bench is a Weller ESD mat with high temperature resistance. I also have a cutting mat stowed underneath the bench for any cutting needs I may have.
Above the bench are 10″ deep wall mounted shelving. I opted for wall mounted since it is the most compact solution. The shelves are from home depot and I am using the Rubbermaid rail mounting system.
The lighting is done using two 90+ CRI LED strips mounted underneath the lowest shelf, each with a different color temperature. They are controlled using a touch switch and powered from a 24V PSU. The light can be too bright at times so I am planning to add PWM control in the future to modify brightness and net color temperature as well. It also doesn’t spread too evenly so I am looking into a diffuser as well.
All the power distribution is done using a long 12 port power strip that is mounted on a wire management tray. All the PSU’s and power wiring is managed on the tray to avoid a dangly mess underneath the desk.
I also have a bench PC that is extremely useful to collect data, interact with the oscilloscope and view schematics, datasheets etc. The display for the bench is mounted on the wall with a swivel arm.
Ikea – Lagkapten 78×24″ Table Top
Ikea – Alex Drawer
Amazon – Weller ESD Mat
Amazon – Cutting Mat
Homedepot – 72×10″ White Shelf
Homedepot – Rubbermaid 48″ Track
Homedepot – Rubbermaid 9″ Shelf Bracket
Amazon – 3000K 90+ CRI LED Strip
Amazon – 6000K 90+ CRI LED Strip
Amazon – Meanwell 24V 10A PSU
Amazon – Touch Switch
Amazon – 12 Port Power Strip
Amazon – Cable Management Tray
Amazon – 22″ Monitor
Amazon – Wall Mounted Arm
The main appeal of my bench is the organization. I obsess over the little details and have spent a lot of time to organize every part of the bench. Organization is an ever going process though so it will never be done, it will just keep getting better.
Lets look at the organizational structure I have implemented. Everything is placed in a way that the most used things are the easiest to get to. Most frequent tools, instruments and components are out in the open. Less frequently used stuff is stored in drawers, bins and compartment boxes. I like to keep things consistent as much as possible since it makes storing them easier.
At this point, I would like to point out that you need a way to label things. Masking tape and a sharpie work great but you can get fancy with a label maker or label printer. I use them all based on what I am labelling and how permanent/important I expect it to be.
Lets start with the bench top. I have a main bin of tools that always holds a certain set of tools and based on what I am working on, will store additional tools as well. It serves as a quick way to stow away tools when not needed and easily retrieve them when needed.
The soldering iron and hot air rework station are to the right since I am right handed. They are quick to reach but also not in the way. Other things are lined up where they fit like the power supply, solder wire, USB charging station etc. I keep the left area clear so I can spread out my project further. I also usually keep a smaller bin to hold components I am actively using on the left.
There are 3 primary types of containers I use to store all my stuff:
For the drawers, I use Akro-Mills drawers as they are decent quality and come in a variety of configurations. I use these to store electronic components. Most of the drawer space is taken by my tracked inventory of components for PCB designs. I also have other electronic components like relays, panel mount switches, magnets etc. in the drawers. They are all labelled and organized in a logical way so that similar stuff is together. For example all SMD components are grouped together.
I mainly use 2 types of compartment boxes. One is the clear 10.8x7x1.8″ box that is cheap and good for a variety of parts due to its modular compartments. I store connectors, hardware, modules and dev boards in these boxes. I usually buy kits of thing from Amazon and each comes in its own unique box so I have found it better to shift the parts to these standard boxes. They are much easier to store and navigate when you are looking for something. These are stacked on the second shelf. I also do have smaller compartment boxes for some of the smaller connectors. For example all JST SH connectors go in a small box. But I have tried to have a few different sizes and stick to those instead of having each connector be its own type of box. Initially, that can work but as you add more types of parts, it gets annoying. The smaller boxes are stored in the main drawers. There are some things like connectors which come in so many shapes, sizes and use cases that I find it best to store them appropriately in different containers and different locations. My more frequently used connectors are in the drawer next to me but the less frequent ones are in the larger compartment boxes.
The other type of box I use is the Aidetek SMD component storage box. I absolutely love these things and they amazing to store a large number of components in a small volume. I have all my frequently used components in these boxes and I keep them on the first shelf for quick access.
There is a lot of things that cant fit in either of the above two options so I use bins for those. Again, I have tried to use only two sizes so that its easy to store them and they look visually more aesthetic. The top shelf is taken by bins for larger things like tapes, adhesives etc. I have larger bins with parts in the closet that hold things I very rarely need to access.
The drawers on both ends of my desk are used to store a variety of tools, parts and consumable supplies. But more importantly, I use small organizing containers to keep things inside the drawers fairly well organized. I use these ones for the shallow drawers and these for the deep ones.
The drawers I can access most easily are the top left two drawers and they hold more tools and soldering supplies. The top drawers on the right are unfortunately blocked by the soldering station wires so I keep things I use less frequently in those.
In the lower drawers, I keep more supplies and parts like wires, heat shrink, connectors etc.
On the left edge of the shelves, I have a test lead holder that I use to hang all my test leads including oscilloscope leads, Minigrabber leads, alligator jumper cables etc. Not only does this keep them straight, it also keeps them untangled and ready to use.
I have more than a thousand different electric components for PCBs and trying to find which one I have became very time consuming. So I spent even more time coming up with an inventory system for the components. The system is based on Airtable and it stores entries for each component. It automatically generates a nice label that I can use to re-bag the components since they consume so much less space in my bags compared to what LCSC, Digikey etc. send them in. I also have automation scripts to add components into the database from CSV files.
I will go into much more depth on the inventory system in a separate post that I will link here when its up. There are a lot of details about the system I want to document and share.
Amazon – Brother Label Maker
Amazon – 15×6″ Bin
Amazon – Akro-Mils 24 Drawer Cabinet
Amazon – Akro-Mils 44 Drawer Cabinet
Amazon – Compartment Box 11x7x2″
Amazon – Aidetek Compartment Box
Amazon – 2″ Drawer Organizer Set
Amazon – 10x6x3″ Clear Bins
Amazon – Pomona Test Lead Holder
I have a used a lot of different tools, parts and supplies over the years. Slowly, I have moved towards the best balance of quality and value in each of these categories. In the following sections, I will go over my recommendation for things needed to get started. As you work on projects, you will add more stuff based on project specific needs. Links are provided to where you can buy everything. I have also added what I like about each item based on my personal experience using them.
Much better value than a Fluke. Fast auto-ranging. All the features you would need including data-logging.
Amazon
Amazon – Serial Adapter
Gold plated. Silicon wires. Comfortable and ergonomic design.
Product Page
Very nifty to test USB-C devices and power bricks. Works with all protocols.
Amazon
Very useful to quickly test USB power draw.
Amazon
Much cheaper than alternatives. Precise enough for most applications. Very easy to use.
Amazon
Amazon – PSU
3D Printed Case
Data logging ability over USB and Bluetooth. Much cheaper than fully built electronic loads. Great for PSU, USB and battery testing.
Amazon
Great entry level scope for beginners. I have upgraded to a higher end model but I would recommend this when starting out.
Amazon
High quality mini grabber leads to use with DMM, PSU or oscilloscope.
Amazon – 36″
Amazon – 24″
Cant have an electronics lab without a bread board.
Amazon – Full
Amazon – Short
These are much better quality than the cheap ones that come is a strip or the flimsy ones. Get the 10cm and 15cm in all configurations.
Amazon
Much stiffer than all others I have tried. Hold their shape well and go in easy.
Amazon
Get this once and never think about it again. Get special tips for specific use cases although be aware that thin tips don’t work very well.
Amazon
The best sucker out there. Gets clogged easily what I have not been able to find anything better.
Amazon
Available as a DIY kit so its double the fun. Works much better than the cheap ones out there.
Product Page
Best value for a hot air station. Its also much more compact than other models. Must buy if you plan to do SMD work.
Amazon
Best PCB holding vise. Low profile makes working on the PCB easy.
Amazon
Amazon – PTFE Jaws
High quality image and large camera to base distance for easy working. Use power bank to make it portable.
Amazon
Amazon – Anker 10Ah Power Bank
Heavy base and solid construction.
Amazon
The single most used tool on the electronics bench. Way better than the Hakko. Get two.
Amazon
Just the right size for electronics work. Not to tighten larger nuts.
Amazon
Precise heads. Good grip. Very durable.
Amazon
Strips well. Allows for precise manual control.
Amazon
Cork anti slip base is great.
Amazon
Buy once, cry once. Very reliable compared to cheaper alternatives
Amazon
Stiff construction. Quiet durable.
Amazon
Great for precise cutting or PCB trace cutting.
Amazon
Well you need something to open all the Amazon packages with. Sharpest and most durable. Japanese.
Amazon
Amazon – Blades
Best mechanical pencil out there.
Amazon
Staple of any lab. Great for labelling stuff.
Amazon
Great for labelling smaller stuff.
Amazon
Amazing ratcheting screw driver with integrated bit storage.
Product Page
Nothing special. I like the black ones compared to the multi-colored kits.
Amazon
Great for more rugged applications. Adhesive lined.
Amazon
These will get you through most applications but you can certainly buy them in different colors, higher quality and material based on your use case. I have accumulated a variety of tubing but use the aforementioned 99% of the time.
I use this the most often.
Amazon
Great for power connections.
Amazon
Great for fixing mistakes you made in your PCB designs.
Amazon
My experience with silicon coated wires from Amazon has be great. They are not the best quality you can get but they are good enough for most prototyping applications. You can get them in any gauge and color combo your application demands. But don’t get PVC coated wires since they generally melt very easily and are poorly made. For those, you should turn to Digikey and be ready to pay a premium.
Great for temporary taping of things like SMT stencils.
Amazon
High temperature resistance.
Amazon
The strongest double sided tape out there. The smaller rolls are mostly fakes and not as good.
Amazon
Great for labelling stuff
Amazon
My electronic component inventory is massive with more than 1000 unique components. This inventory has built up over the course of many projects. I will write a separate blog post in which I will cover my curated list of components to get started with.
Having a variety of fastening hardware on hand helps to quickly prototype designs. The screws I use the most are course threaded screws that can thread into 3D printed plastic. I also have used threaded inserts and fine thread screws. While you can get screw kits from Amazon, the quality wont be particularly good. Hence I recommend getting them from McMaster-Carr.
McMaster-Carr – 0.25″
McMaster-Carr – 0.50″
McMaster-Carr – 0.75″
McMaster-Carr – 0.50″
McMaster-Carr – 0.75″
McMaster-Carr – 1.00″
McMaster-Carr – 0.50″
McMaster-Carr – 0.75″
McMaster-Carr – 1.00″
McMaster-Carr – 6mm
McMaster-Carr – 10mm
McMaster-Carr – 16mm
McMaster-Carr – 20mm
McMaster-Carr – 25mm
McMaster-Carr – 6mm
McMaster-Carr – 10mm
McMaster-Carr – 16mm
McMaster-Carr – 20mm
McMaster-Carr – 25mm
I have stocked up on a variety of development boards, modules and tools to quickly prototype ideas. The specific hardware that would be most useful for you would depend on the type of projects you want to tackle. Here are some things to keep in mind in your quest.
Below are some basic staples of my lab and some interesting tools I have found over the years. I will do a more detailed post with all my recommended development hardware later.
My go-to for simple projects that require a microcontroller.
Amazon
If I need lots of I/O.
Amazon
Powerful and cheap dev board with WiFi. Great for general things due to low cost and feature set. Check other Espressif products for specific needs.
Amazon
ESP Product Selector
Best for BLE development. Explore other nordic products as well.
Adafruit
Great tools to measure power consumption of low power electronics.
Product Page
Digikey
Great to keep things in place.
Amazon – Black
Amazon – Clear
Magnets are very cool and I love to integrate them in my designs.
Amazon
Great option to weight down things and prevent them from moving or tipping over too easily.
Amazon
While most of the hardware work is done on the lab bench, all of my programming work is done on the computer workstation. It is the perfect complement to the lab bench and allows me all the room, screen real estate and power to test and program anything I want.
The desktop PC is a custom built unit with decent specifications. It easily handles anything I can throw at it. It has the following components.
The triple monitor setup just cant be beat for both productivity and entertainment. Coupled with high quality peripherals, makes the setup very comfortable and effective. Following are things that make up this setup.
I use the following furniture elements for the setup.
Most of the time, the desk looks like this and is filled with prototypes and parts of the current project I am working on.
A 3D printer is a very useful and powerful tool to have. Not only can you use it to optimize your lab but you can also prototype enclosures and mechanisms for your designs. There are too many options out there and the best option for you will be based on what is it that you are looking for. You can get cheaper units that can do basic printing well and might require a bit more attention and care. Or you could go for higher end units that just work and require minimal tinkering.
I have found the Ender 3 Pro with some basic upgrades to be a great value for money and the best place to get started with. Once you feel like you need a more capable printer because you need to print an engineering material or print larger quantity, you can invest in a higher end model.
Following are links to the printer and recommended upgrade parts.
I hope this guide will provide some inspiration for you to spice up your setup. Let me know if you have any questions. Pleaseany recommendations for products you have found useful around the lab.
[ comments ]
]]>College dorms are a rite of passage for many students entering their first year of college. Dorm life is an exciting, nerve-wracking, and sometimes an overwhelming experience. Living in a dorm can be a great way to make friends, learn new things, and gain independence. However, living in a small, shared space can also present some challenges. As you prepare for your college dorm experience, it’s important to consider what to bring to your college dorm to make the most of your space and create a comfortable living environment. There are a lot of items to consider when packing for your new home. In this article, we will explore some of the best college dorms and what to bring to your college dorm to ensure a successful and enjoyable dorm life experience.
Here’s some food for thought! Have you ever considered spending the best years of your life in college towns that are hidden gems? You’ll enjoy various perks, such as more spacious dorms with the latest smart gadgets. Plus, you’ll get the chance to stand out from the crowd as the teacher-student ratio is more advantageous than in major colleges.
Starting college is an exciting adventure, but it can also be daunting. Especially when it comes to efficient and time-saving packing for your college dorm. It’s important to bring only the essentials to your new living space, so you can maximize your limited space and create a comfortable home away from home. Remember, dorms can be roomier and cozier in little-known colleges with great potentials, such as Hendrix College in Conway, AR, or St. Mary’s College in Moraga, CA!
Knowing what to bring to college dorm can make a big difference in your dorm life experience. So, whether you’re a first-time college student or a veteran, let’s find out what you need to bring with you to make your experience better.
Your bed is where you’ll spend a lot of time in your dorm, so it’s important to have comfortable bedding. A comfortable and cozy bed is a must-have for a good night’s sleep. Bring along sheets, pillows, a comforter, and a mattress pad to make your bed as comfortable as possible. If you’re short on space, consider using storage bags that compress your bedding to save space. Did you know that you can improvise your own DIY bed? Moreover, a bedroom repaint is also a good idea if the college administration allows it!
When it comes to packing clothes, it’s best to bring a mix of comfortable and dressy outfits. You’ll need casual clothes for everyday wear, such as t-shirts, shorts, jeans, and sweatpants. Additionally, bring some nicer clothes for special occasions, such as a job interview or a formal event. Your overall appearance can be the key to success!
Don’t forget to pack some comfortable shoes as well, such as sneakers or sandals. It’s important to consider the weather when deciding what to bring to the college dorm. If you’re moving to a colder climate, pack warm clothes like jackets, scarves, and hats. If you’re moving to a warmer climate, pack lighter clothes like shorts, t-shirts, and sunhats. Most dorm rooms have limited closet and drawer space, so it’s best to bring clothes that can be easily folded or hung. Consider using vacuum-sealed bags to save space and keep your clothes fresh.
Personal hygiene is essential, and it’s important to have all the necessary toiletries. Pack a shower caddy to make it easy to transport your toiletries to and from the communal bathroom. Bring all the basics such as toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, soap, and deodorant. Consider bringing a small mirror and a hairdryer, too. Don’t forget about the little things that make a big difference, like razors, shaving cream, and feminine hygiene products. If you wear contacts, pack your solution and a spare pair of glasses. And, of course, bring plenty of towels and washcloths.
Nowadays, it’s almost impossible to live without electronics. First and foremost, bring a laptop or tablet for your academic needs, your personal home office must-haves. Most colleges require students to complete assignments online, so having a reliable device is essential. Plus, they’re indispensable tools for acquiring knowledge and skills.
Don’t forget to pack your charger, too! If you’re a music lover, bring a portable speaker or headphones to enjoy your tunes without disturbing your roommates. Other essential electronics to consider include a power strip, surge protector, and extension cords. These items will help you keep all your devices charged and organized while also reducing clutter. However, be mindful of your dorm’s electronics policy. Some colleges have restrictions on certain devices, such as mini-fridges or space heaters. Be sure to check with your dorm administrator before packing.
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Knowing what to bring to a college dorm when it comes to desk supplies is essential for academic success. Bring a good quality desk lamp. This will not only help you study more efficiently but also create a comfortable and welcoming environment in your room. Additionally, a desk calendar or planner can help you stay on top of your assignments and schedule. Other essential desk supplies include pens, pencils, highlighters, markers, and erasers. Don’t forget to bring a stapler, tape, and paper clips as well. You may also want to consider investing in a printer or scanner for your academic needs. If you’re taking classes that require textbooks, bring bookends or a bookshelf to keep them organized and easily accessible. And, of course, don’t forget about your calculator and any other academic tools you may need. Consider bringing some personal touches to your desk to make it feel like home. A small plant, picture frame, or inspirational quote can make a big difference in creating a comfortable and inviting workspace.
Dorm rooms can be small, so it’s important to bring creative storage solutions to keep your space organized. One of the best ways to maximize space in your dorm room is by bringing storage containers. Consider investing in plastic bins or under-bed storage containers to keep your belongings organized on a budget and out of the way. You may also want to bring some hangers and a hanging organizer for your closet.
Another great storage solution is a set of shelves or a bookcase. These items can help you keep your books, papers, and other belongings organized and easily accessible. Don’t forget to bring some decorative baskets or storage boxes to add some style to your room while keeping things tidy. If you’re sharing a dorm room with a roommate, it’s important to coordinate storage solutions and make sure everyone has their own designated space. You may want to consider bringing a room divider or curtain to create some separation and privacy.
Make your dorm feel like home. Firstly, consider bringing some posters or wall art to add some personality and color to your room. You can also bring some string lights or a lamp to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Plants are also a great way to add some life and vibrancy to your dorm room. You can choose a small plant that’s easy to care for, such as a succulent or cactus, or opt for a larger plant to make a statement. Other decorative items to consider bringing include a rug, curtains, and some framed photos or artwork. These items can help add warmth and comfort to your dorm room while also reflecting your personal style. Adding a dash of Hygge lifestyle elements could boost overall appearances.
When it comes to what to bring to college dorm, it’s important to remember that less is more. You won’t have a lot of space so only bring what you really need. Focus on essentials and bring only a few personal items to make your space feel like home.
College dorms are often depicted as cramped and dreary spaces. However, some universities, especially in the best US states for education, go above and beyond to create the best possible living spaces for their students. From spacious rooms to modern amenities, these top-tier dorms are sure to make you feel right at home. You might also want to look into the best hidden gems in American education for providing an extra cozy atmosphere.
But even in the best college towns in 2023, it’s important to know what to bring to your college dorm to make your space your own. So, let’s take a closer look at some of the best college dorms in the country.
Ann Arbor, Michigan, is considered one of the mightiest college towns in the United States. It also hosts the renowned University of Michigan. Its North Quadrangle dorm is a popular choice for students who want a modern and well-equipped space. Each room comes with a private bathroom, air conditioning, and a mini-fridge. The dorm also boasts a café, fitness center, and a language lab. When packing for North Quad, make sure to bring your workout clothes, textbooks, and of course, some snacks to store in your mini-fridge.
This dorm is perfect for students who want to be in the center of the action. Located near the campus’s dining hall and student center, you’ll never be far from anything you need. The rooms are spacious and come with an updated kitchenette, so you can prepare your own meals if you’d like. When packing for Hedrick Summit, make sure to bring your favorite cooking utensils, a few pots and pans, and plenty of non-perishable food items.
Another popular dorm option. This dorm is known for its size, as it can house up to 3,000 students. But don’t let the size fool you; the rooms are spacious and well-maintained. Each room comes with a microwave and mini-fridge, so you can easily prepare small meals and snacks. When packing for Jester East, make sure to bring some easy-to-make meals like instant noodles or canned soup, as well as a few microwavable containers.
This dorm is a tech-lover’s dream come true. Each room is equipped with a voice-activated assistant, adjustable LED lighting, and high-speed Wi-Fi. In other words, it contains everything a smart home requires. The dorm also features a 3D printing lab, music practice rooms, and a gaming center. When packing for Tooker House, make sure to bring your favorite gaming console, a good pair of headphones, and plenty of snacks to keep you fueled during those marathon gaming sessions.
Living in a college dorm can be an exciting and memorable experience. It’s important to be prepared and know what to bring to a college dorm to make the most of your space. There are plenty of items that can help you feel at home in your new environment. And while every college dorm is different, some universities have truly exceptional living spaces that make the college experience even more enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for spacious rooms, modern amenities, or a tight-knit community, there’s a college dorm out there that’s perfect for you. So, start making your list of what to bring to a college dorm, and get ready for an unforgettable college experience in one of the best dorm colleges around!
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A comfortable, lightweight pair of running shoes are hard to come by. Adidas Ultraboosts are “a constant re-buy” as reviewers say. And, they’re machine washable.
Made from a combination of merino wool and nylon, these moisture-wicking socks will protect mom’s feet on even her toughest runs. These socks may be for running but they’re also great for climbing.
Providing comfort and coverage, this hat will make an excellent gift to keep mom protected from the hot sun in the warmer months. With UPF 40 protection and COOLmatic technology to keep her cool during her runs.
A good smartwatch that does more than track pace and heart rate and the Garmin Forerunner is a great option. This GPS Running watch will make an amazing addition to your running gear.
Whether you’re going far on the trail or getting in a morning jog near home, the New Balance Fresh Foam X More Trail v3 is more than capable of performing on multiple surfaces. Grab a pair, and let them help the moms in your life push a little farther, move a little bit faster, or take those hills that are a little bit steeper.
Read our review here.
If mom likes to camp, but is looking for an upgrade, this bell tent offers design, durability, practicality – and a bit of outdoor luxury. The tent’s upper cover protects from the elements and regulates temperature inside the tent, provides breathability and keeps the tent dry during wet conditions. Roll in a queen size bed and a luxe duvet, and make sure you bring breakfast in bed.
This durable steel frame and a recliner-style seat will make your favorite mom comfortable around the fire with her camping partner of choice.
A lightweight carbon fiber electric bike with an integrated lighting system and more will have Mom rolling for miles, with smiles.
An amazing cooler, whether you’re hiking or heading out to the dock. The Roadie can hold up to 54 pounds of ice or 76 cans, and it’s wine bottle friendly.
If ever there was a life-changing backyard luxury that also happens to be portable, it is, without a doubt, the SweatTent. This brand-new collapsible sauna is exactly what it sounds like: a tent that is also a sauna, which you can put in your backyard or set up at your campsite and make all of your friends very, very jealous, and very, very interested in hanging out with you all the time.
Read our review here.
Save $100 with code “outdoorsdotcom”
With high quality, 100% virgin wool sourced from the USA, this blanket isn’t cheap but will keep Mom warm even when its damp and wet. And a comfortable Mom? Priceless.
Here’s a lightweight and compact camping cot that offers maximum surface tension for a restful slumber. Constructed with proprietary aluminum alloy legs and frame, the cot is capable of holding up to 320 pounds. The cot cover and zippered carrying case are made from 600-weave rip-stop polyester, making it both durable and portable. Setup is quick and easy with a single internal bungee cord that self-assembles the poles. The cot has a height of 6.5 inches, or 15 inches with leg extenders (sold separately). It suspends sleepers 6.5 inches from the ground.
Whether mom lives that vanlife or runs an off-grid home, the Jackery SolarSaga 100W Solar Panels can keep her powered up with 100% green energy.The power station can be fully charged within 6 hours with the solar panels (sold separately) or 5.5 hours via an AC wall outlet. It is ideal for camping and family emergency storage, and features an ergonomic handle for easy grip and setup in just 60 seconds.
If your Mom loves getting her truck muddy then she may enjoy something from RealTruck’s recently dropped line of hats, hoodies and shirts.
This stove is the perfect addition for a mom who loves to cook outdoors. Add it as a cooking solution for your RV or off-grid cabin. Its efficient design means that all you need to cook a full meal is just a handful of sticks or pinecones. It boasts a fully insulated vertical combustion chamber that forces gasses to mix with flames, leading to decreased smoke and increased fuel efficiency. The well-reviewed stove is built from the strongest materials, with a large six-pronged cast iron stove top and heat resistant handles, and includes a weather resistant canvas storage bag.
This one is for the mom on the go who prefers to sit in an upright position as they ride. At stops, riders can place both feet on the ground due to the aft positioning, creating a low center of gravity and full leg extension for increased comfort. An ergonomic saddle with elastomer bumpers also helps to provide a comfortable, shock-absorbent ride.
If mom loves to bike but doesn’t want to carry gear on her back, get her a trunk bag. With three compartments with multiple panels to separate your gear and a space to hold your water bottle to stay hydrated. Water repellant so mom can ride in the rain, if she wants.
If mom loves her bike, but ends her day with hand or wrist pain, ease her discomfort with new handle grips. Made by German designers with ergonomic scientists, these handle grips will allow mom to keep her hands and wrists in the most “ergonomically ideal” position.
After years of ware and tear, mom’s bike tires probably need a refresh. Get her a new set of tires from the Pro’s Closet. The Specialized Slaughter Grid Trail tires are designed for heavy pedaling on hard trails. When you’re on hard packed trails, you need a lightweight tire for the best results.
Take on any terrain with these Editor’s Choice award winning trekking poles. If mom is getting back into the hiking game, give her a little extra support. Easily adjustable to fit mom and keep her on track all day. With padded wrist straps to ensure comfort these trekking poles will enhance the hiking experience.
Keep mom hydrated with a hydration pack big enough to hold gear for an individual hike, or be put into a bigger backpack for longer hikes. Made from a breathable mesh, you’ll stay cool and comfortable with this on your back.
The Pendleton Knit Baby Blanket is the perfect accessory to keep your favorite mom’s new little one cozy during cooler spring and early summer day hikes. Crafted from soft and comfortable cotton fabric, this blanket is sourced from materials in the USA.
A pair of binoculars will help mom be able to see everything up close. Whether she’s out on the water whale watching, or in the woods looking for the birds, she’ll be able to get a close look, no matter what she’s looking for.
Give mom a gift that keeps on giving by getting her a sturdy backpack that can be used for all her traveling needs. Pack for your needs and even have space for your camera gear to take photos of all of your stunning adventures.
Give Mom some peace of mind knowing that her items will be protected from water damage with the durable and water-repellent ripstop fabric on this tote. When embarking on longer trips, she can easily pack this tote into its own pocket and store it in her luggage to ensure that this go-to bag is always within reach.
Moms always seem to have everything they- and you- need. Get her a compact but spacious wallet that was made with travelers in mind. Made to fit into small pockets and from ripstop nylon and an ID window, you’ll be set for the airport and anywhere else you may be going.
Get mom a 100% cotton canvas bag that will make an excellent personal item for her to take on vacation with her. With leather handles and a laptop pocket, this bag can be taken to the grocery store, to work, or on her next big getaway.
This monthly subscription box is great for the outdoor generalist. Each month, your favorite Mom will receive a box of outdoor goodies that vary from things you might never think to buy, to things you can’t get enough of.
With 19 useful tools for the trails and the campsite, this is an excellent addition to your gear. And taking up a mere 4.5 inches, it will easily fit into your bag wherever you may be going. With a ferro-rod, serrated blade, pliers, an emergency whistle, and so many more tools, you’ll be ready for anything on your next adventure.
Waterproof and breathable, this versatile jacket has detachable inner layer for optional insulation on the trail, commuting to the office or running errands in all kinds of weather.
Keep Mom looking fly, and her eyes protected from the sun’s UV rays with these scratch-resistant, medium lens front, polarized sunnies. Also, Costa ships green on orders over $50, so you can feel good about the carbon footprint on your purchase.
If mom is in need of a new tumbler for her coffee or tea, make sure to check out YETI’s amazing line of products. Get high quality insulation and stainless steel to ensure there’s no rust and it’s dishwasher safe so no one has to do anymore work.
If mom is a warm-weather adventurer, you’ll want to keep her protected this summer with a hat that will shield her face and neck from the harsh sun. With UPF 50+ protection and mesh to keep her head cool, this will make an excellent gift for mom.
Though moms are usually incredibly prepared for any situation, the last thing we want is for her to run out of water. Keep her prepared and protected by adding a LifeStraw to her gear. The LifeStraw will protect mom from 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria when she’s out on the trails.
As the weather warms up, mom will definitely want to take a relaxing float in the pool or on the lake. With a built in backrest and two cup holders, comfort and relaxation await throughout the summer.
If the power goes out or in an emergency weather situation, it’s good to keep mom connected. This $20 hand cranked radio isn’t a flashy gift, but it delivers high on the price-to-peace-of-mind ratio.
With scents such as Night in the Woods, Pacific Northwest and Open Trail, these are candles for folks who love the outdoors. If that’s the mom on your list, treat her to a scent to evoke her favorite outdoor places.
Topo’s Mini Shoulder Bag is a fun, useful side bag that is built from 100% recycled materials and ships in several fun color combos. The has a removable shoulder strap lets mom wear this handy bag as a crossover, hip pack or over the shoulder.
Your favorite mom deserves more than a gnarled tree stump to sit on. This one is lightweight and compact and available in floral, plaid, mountain pattern and a few solid colors.
An insulated mug is always an excellent choice for anyone who may be in need of a new travel cup. The lid is spill proof making it great for the campsite, or the car! Keep your drinks at the temperature of your choosing with a new mug. Handwash only.
How about giving your favorite mom her new favorite water bottle, tee or hoodie from your favorite outdoor site? Feel extra good knowing that a portion of all sales goes towards The World Land Trust which has funded the planting of 1,631,233 trees and the protection of over 11,617 species around the world.
Of course, the best gift you can give that special mom in your life is the gift of being present. If you’re also looking for a gift, we hope there was something on this list that can help you show your appreciation for an outdoors-loving mom, and inspire her to enjoy the great outdoors any time of the year.
The post Gift Guide: The Best Mother’s Day Gifts For Moms Who Love The Outdoors appeared first on Outdoors with Bear Grylls.
]]>You'd pay $47 to $60 elsewhere for a very similar portable closet. Buy Now at eBay
Cleaning every nook and cranny in your home can be easy with a cordless stick vacuum. These lightweight appliances make quick work of routine cleaning tasks so your floors stay spotless every day.
Thanks to recent advances in suction technology, more and more households are opting to use a stick vacuum as their primary vacuum, especially in smaller spaces. Keep reading to find out if that’s the right choice for you, plus how to choose a cordless stick vacuum that you’ll love.
Cordless Stick Vacuum Buying Guide Quick Reference Handout
Table of contents
Cordless stick vacuums are a type of portable vacuum that’s ideal for daily cleaning tasks. They feature a hose-free vacuum design with a battery in the vacuum body and a long, inflexible tube that stretches from handle to head. (This tube is the “stick” part of a “stick vacuum.”)
In general, cordless stick vacuums are lightweight and easy to maneuver. They’re favoured for their portability and cord-free design. To find out if a cordless stick vacuum is right for you, start by reading Best Buy’s overall vacuum buying guide, which can help you narrow down what vacuum type suits you best.
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Cordless stick vacuums are an extremely popular type of vacuum, but stick vacuums are also available without a built-in, rechargeable battery. Both designs are lightweight and easy to use. The corded version needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet during use. For those who prioritize portability and convenience, cordless versions are more popular. For those who prioritize reliability, a corded version that never needs to be charged may be preferable.
Overall, the cordless version of these vacuums takes up a much larger part of the market and is easier to find. But, for those who want to enjoy the lightweight design of a stick vacuum without needing to charge their vacuum between uses, a few ultra-light corded stick vacuums exist, too. As a leader in budget-friendly vacuum design, Shark is known for making reliable, corded versions of this style of vacuum.
Stick vacuums have a lot of uses, but they’re especially popular in two cases: First, as a primary cleaning tool in small apartments. Second, as a supplementary vacuum in large homes.
There are a lot of benefits to using this type of vacuum, from the convenience of a cord-free design to the flexibility that lightness has to offer. With such a slim, liftable design, you can use stick vacuums in spots where other vacuums just can’t reach. This includes upholstery like couches and mattresses, high-up spots like drapery and ceilings, and lie-flat areas like under the couch.
What limits a cordless stick vacuum is typically its battery life. Because this type of vacuum is designed to be portable and lightweight, the batteries in cordless vacuums typically last for only 20 to 60 minutes. As a result, while they’re a great choice for apartments (which tend to be smaller, have hard floors, and often don’t have the storage space for a larger vacuum), they may not be a good choice as the sole vacuum in a large house.
In larger homes, stick vacuums are often purchased as supplementary or everyday vacuums. They’re something you can pull out to clean up a small mess like breakfast crumbs without having to deal with a heap of cords, but not as a vacuum that needs to run for an hour or more. They can also be great for cleaning jobs that are awkward but infrequent. This includes cleaning your car, storage unit, pantry, pet beds, etc. To find out if a stick vacuum will be enough for you, check out this Best Buy guide on the difference between canister and stick vacuums.
As the most-purchased type of vacuum at Best Buy, it’s easy to find a cordless stick vacuum with the features you’ll need. There are a ton of different options available and the popularity of the stick design has encouraged top brands like Dyson, Shark, Tineco, and even Miele (known for their iconic canister vacuums) to be innovative.
Here are four of the top features to look for in a stick vacuum to start off your shopping process.
First off, if cordless is what you’re seeking, make sure that’s what you’re getting! Distinguish between “cordless” and “corded” stick vacuums in your search.
Planning to cover a large area when you vacuum? Make sure to seek out a corded vacuum or opt for a cordless vacuum with an extended battery life. Select brands—like Tineco—offer cordless vacuum models with interchangeable batteries so you can swap your battery and double the length of your cleaning session.
Depending on the type of filtration system you’re looking for, you may want to search for a stick vacuum with a HEPA filter or pet-friendly design. These vacuums are occasionally a little pricier, but they can make a big difference for household members with allergies to dust, mites, and dander.
All stick vacuums are designed with a stick (instead of a hose) and a floor head. Many, however, also come with interchangeable attachments or have additional attachments available for purchase. These attachments can help you clean baseboards, get into small corners, and even convert your stick vacuum into a handheld vacuum. For an even more specialized vacuuming experience, look for stick vacuums with attachment heads for pet grooming and drapery.
Chances are, you’ll need to pick the features that are most important to you and make your stick vacuum selection based off of those. Some features, like intense suction power and extended battery life, can work against each other. So, you might not be able to get every single feature you’ve heard of at once.
Best Buy offers a selection of many great cordless stick vacuums. Knowing which features are most important to you will help you find the best one for you—because “the best” isn’t necessarily a universal concept. While it might be tempting to simply buy the newest and most expensive model if you want “the best,” remember that brands keep multiple models available for a reason. There might be a feature in an older model that’s really important to you!
For starters, consider how large your home is. If your vacuum battery lasts for one hour, is that enough time for you to vacuum every space you want to clean before you’ll need to plug in a cordless vacuum and allow it to charge? If your home is very large or has a lot of carpeting, will you mind emptying your dustbin multiple times during a cleaning session?
Daily or regular vacuuming can be a great way to minimize allergy symptoms. If someone in your household is allergic to dust or similar small particles, look at vacuums with HEPA filters to make sure you aren’t just spreading allergens around your home while you vacuum.
For homes with pets, make sure to choose a vacuum model with strong suction and, if possible, a pet-friendly design that catches more hair and dander than average. If you’re in a routine where you deep clean your floors every week or two with an upright vacuum, canister vacuum, or central vacuum, then a daily-use cordless stick vacuum could really help minimize the amount of allergens in your home. Cordless vacuums often aren’t as powerful as upright or canister vacuums. However, because they’re so easy to pull out and zip around your floors, you’re more likely to use them to eliminate allergens on a daily basis.
(Another great option for this is to add a robot vacuum to your home—find out how to choose one in Best Buy’s robot vacuum buying guide. As you would with a stick vacuum, you can use a robot vacuum for daily cleaning. Then, you can support it with a more powerful vacuum during less-frequent deep cleans.)
Who’ll be doing your vacuuming can make a big impact on which vacuum is right for you. If you or a family member struggles with using a larger, heavier vacuum, then a stick vacuum can make a huge difference on your cleaning routine. Stick vacuums are generally easier to use for kids, teens, seniors, and petite individuals—anyone who would have a difficult time lifting a heavier appliance.
Are size and weight a big issue for you? Check out each cordless vacuum’s dimensions and total weight in Best Buy’s “Specifications” section.
If you’re estimating usage time to look at whether or not a vacuum’s runtime will work for your lifestyle, make sure to take flooring type into account. Homes with hard floors can often get away with using a vacuum’s lower settings. These lower settings will be more reflective of a maximum runtime. Homes with carpet may need to be vacuumed on a high or “boost” setting, which often decreases a vacuum’s overall runtime.
On top of that, thick carpets, rugs, and upholstery often benefit from “slow vacuuming,” which was the big cleaning trend of the summer of 2022. This is a technique that helps you get as much dirt and dust out of a rug as possible in one pass. It takes longer than traditional vacuuming, but at-home tests from both journalists and everyday people consistently find that it really does get more out of your flooring—just look at how full your dustbin gets to compare the difference.
If carpeting factors into your vacuuming routine, make sure to adjust your runtime expectations accordingly. Additionally, consider spending more on a stick vacuum with a stronger motor if you’re planning on using your stick vacuum as your primary floor-cleaning tool.
One final thing to consider when it comes to choosing a cordless stick vacuum is whether or not it comes with the accessories that you want to use. If it doesn’t, are they available for purchase separately (perhaps in an accessory kit)? Interchangeable attachments are a great starting point, but specific cases and uses are important.
Will you be able to clean in the small nooks and crannies of your car? How about up high on drapery? If you’re primarily going to be cleaning up food crumbs, does the vacuum have an automatic brush roll attachment? And so on, and so forth.
In general, it can be very handy to have a stick vacuum with both a brush roll and a detail cleaning head. But beyond that, features like drapery attachments and pet grooming attachments are really only necessary on a home-by-home basis.
One of the things that makes stick vacuums so great is how easy they are to store, which includes the way they dock. Rather than sitting in a heap of tubes or taking up an entire closet, stick vacuums are slim and rigid. That makes them exceptionally easy to hide away in a closet or storage room, and many cordless stick vacuums come with a charging wall dock.
Make sure to read up on your prospective vacuum’s docking station if it’s important to you: Does it charge with a loose charging cord, on a wall-mounted docking station, or in a freestanding dock? If the included dock is wall-mounted, will you be able to drill into your wall to hang it?
Thanks to their compact design, stick vacuums are often a breeze to maintain. They take up far less storage room than a regular vacuum and they’re easier to move and clean, too.
To keep your stick vacuum in tip-top shape for as long as possible, make sure to maintain it on a regular basis. That means leaving it in its docking port when appropriate, wiping it down on a regular basis, and staying on top of things like emptying the vacuum’s canister and washing its filter. (Make sure to let any washable filters fully dry before reinstalling them!) For best results, remove any long fibres or hairs that get caught in your vacuum’s automatic brush roll, too.
Invest in your home’s everyday comfort level with a new cordless stick vacuum from Best Buy. These compact, lightweight vacuums are easy to use and store, making them the perfect choice for small apartments and supplementary cleaning.
The post Cordless stick vacuum buying guide appeared first on Best Buy Blog.
]]>Here are some quick tips on the factors to consider when choosing the perfect containers and storage boxes for your needs.
Before you choose a container for storing your belongings, you’ll want to consider these factors:
Once you’re clear about these factors, you’re ready to consider the different types of storage boxes. While these range in price and quality, it’s important to choose storage boxes or containers that are appropriate for the specific use you’ll give them.
If you’ve ever watched an organization show on TV or visited a large home store, you know that the variety of containers available seems endless. Fear not, we’ll guide you through the most important factors you need to consider when purchasing your storage supplies.
Pros:
Cons:
The most economical and versatile option, cardboard storage boxes are great for moving and will take care of many storage needs, as well. They can also be easily transformed into art projects with kids or toys for cats, to name a few things.
That said, over time, cardboard can get worn out, especially after being pulled in and out of storage and re-taped year after year. If you choose to go with cardboard, make sure you start with quality cardboard storage boxes that are in good shape, so they’ll last longer.
Another downside of this material is that cardboard doesn’t provide much protection from bugs or rodents — something to consider if you’re storing items in a shed, garage, or attic. However, if you’ll be storing the boxes inside a closet or an indoor storage facility, cardboard boxes can be a budget-friendly choice. At least as long as it is for items that you won’t be manipulating daily.
Pros:
Cons:
While they’re slightly more expensive up front, plastic storage boxes will last for years and provide more protection for fragile items. Plastic storage boxes with lids are also easy to stack, so you can maximize your storage space, and easier to open and close without having to deal with packing tape. This makes them extra handy for items you expect to need access to regularly.
Even if you’re only planning for short-term storage while you’re making a move, plastic storage boxes might be ideal for items you’ll want to keep organized inside boxes in your new home in the future. These can include seasonal decor and clothes, as well as special occasion dinnerware that you only use a couple of times a year.
Pros:
Cons:
There are specialty boxes you can buy that are made for specific items, like dinnerware, flat-screen TVs, and clothing, and they even make special photo storage boxes! These boxes are great for ensuring your items aren’t damaged, since they come with special inserts to secure things for transport.
If you’re going to store clothing that’s best kept on hangers, consider getting a wardrobe box: a tall vertical box with a built-in bar so you can keep your clothes hanging while the box helps provide some protection from heat and sunlight.
Q: What boxes are best for storage? A: That depends on what you’ll be storing, where you’ll be storing it, and how long you’ll be keeping your things there. Cardboard boxes are great for short-term storage, but if your stuff will stay tucked away for months (or years), plastic containers are probably a better bet longevity-wise. Q: Is it better to store in cardboard or plastic boxes? A: It depends on how long and where you’ll store the items. If you’re storing long term, plastic is usually more practical for a variety of reasons, including the durability of the material. But cardboard storage boxes are cheaper and environmentally friendly. |
Selecting the right type of storage comes down to your personal needs, what types of items you’re storing, and whether you’ll need them on hand or not. Take that into account and remember you can potentially mix and match, as needed, just like with storage box options.
If you are storing items that you know you’ll need to access frequently, then opting for in-home storage is a no-brainer. Depending on your living situation and geographical location, this may come at a premium in cost and space availability. However, it is still the most convenient option in this scenario.
Whether you have access to a whole attic or basement (lucky you!) or must get creative with your closet space and the “void” under your bed, it’s all a matter of optimizing what you’re working with and choosing the right supplies for the job.
Q: How can I hide my storage boxes in my bedroom? A: The best bet is to buy under-bed boxes that often take advantage of underused space. Another good option is to stack them in the empty corners and other unused spaces in your closet. |
Secure PODS Storage Centers are a great option for items you don’t need to use all the time, but still want the option to have easy access to. They’re a hassle-free alternative that stores your items securely inside your personal container, which then goes inside a PODS facility, giving it a double layer of reinforced security.
The best part is that whenever you need to access anything, you just need to call your PODS personal storage team. They will either schedule a visit and have your container waiting for you by the time you arrive, or they’ll deliver it wherever you are. It’s flexible and it all depends on what works best for you.
Traditional self-storage options are great if you want a larger space and don’t need to have frequent access to your belongings. The cost is very affordable and competitive when compared, but it lacks the convenience factor of in-home storage or PODS Storage Centers.
If you’re storing valuable items, such as antique furniture, expensive clothing, collectibles, or art, then a climate-controlled storage unit may be the top option for you.
These indoor units maintain a controlled and stable environment for your items with a set temperature and moisture control. This means that whatever you’re storing will last much longer in perfect condition (or at least in whatever condition you stored things in).
The disadvantage, of course, is that this option tends to be significantly more expensive than other types of storage, so it won’t be a great fit for everyone’s budget.
Q: What can I put in my storage boxes to prevent mold? A: Silica gel packets are your friends against mold and humidity when storing all kinds of things. Make sure no moisture gets inside your boxes before sealing them if they’re airtight, or alternatively, use boxes that allow for airflow. |
Now that you have chosen your space and your supplies, it’s time to get to work! If it still feels overwhelming, don’t worry, we have you covered with the most important tips you need to consider:
Make sure you can keep track of what’s in storage with adequate labeling. Trust us, this will make life much easier, whether you’re moving or staying put.
Most organization and office supply stores will have labels you can easily attach to plastic bins, or you can use permanent markers to write labels directly on a cardboard or plastic box. Whatever type of labeling you use, make sure you mark the sides and the top of the bin, so you can still read them, even when the bins and boxes are stacked on top of each other.
Labeling your containers will also be much easier if you have a system accounting for how they’re packed — they can’t all be “miscellaneous” boxes, for example. Group similar items together and try to create a balance of weight so boxes aren’t super heavy.
It’s a good idea to create a storage inventory on your computer, a smartphone app, or in a good old-fashioned notebook to keep track of what items are where — especially when storing long term. Keeping things organized will not only save you time but can prevent potential damage caused by rifling through items or tripping over boxes.
You want to have a mix of container sizes to maximize the space. Extra-large boxes are ideal for bedding or lightweight clothing, since they’ll be easier to lift than an extra-large box filled with heavy books or decor.
Put the items you’ll need access to first, or more often, toward the entry area. Place the heaviest and largest boxes with non-fragile items on the bottom, like ones filled with books or winter gear. Make sure you have a safe spot for boxes that have fragile items — don’t set anything on top of boxes filled with dishes or other breakables. Also, consider adding a few storage racks, so you can secure fragile boxes on the bottom shelf and still place other containers above them.
If you’re using a storage unit or a portable container, create small paths so you’re able to easily access what you need.
Presto. You’re ready to grab the perfect boxes for your storage needs and have a plan for organizing them. Now, if you need someplace to put those boxes, check out more from the PODS Blog — like our article on choosing the right storage facility.
Ivonne Spinoza is a freelance writer and a frequent contributor to the PODS Blog. Her work has appeared in Matador Network, PBS’ Independent Lens, Remezcla, and The Chicago Tribune, among others. When she’s not snuggling her cats, she’s either Kondo-ing someone’s life or fighting jet lag at some airport.
The post Choosing the Right Kind of Storage Boxes appeared first on PODS Moving and Storage Blog.
]]>When it comes to purchasing an air conditioner (AC) unit, you’re presented with a dilemma: should you go window or portable? Air conditioning is the perfect way to cool down your home, and the people in it, especially useful during the hot and humid summer months. You might only need it for a few months out of the year, depending on where you live in Canada. But when you need it, you really need it. However,
We’re here to help you make the decision by highlighting what’s different between these two, the pros and cons, and to whom each would be best suited.
A window AC unit fastens to a standard-sized window (or even a cut-out in the wall) and provides cool air within a room. They exhaust hot air outside and bring cool air in.
More affordable: These models are typically more affordable than portable AC units, so if you’re on a tight budget, it might be the better option to consider.
Quieter: Window AC units can sometimes be less noisy than a portable AC, running in the background without much disruption.
Can cool larger rooms: While it depends on the specific model, many window ACs can cool larger-sized rooms than a portable AC unit.
Doesn’t take up floor space: Since a window AC unit mounts right onto a window, it doesn’t take up any valuable floor space in the room. If you have a small home, this could be an important consideration.
Not as easy to put away: Portable air conditioners are larger and take up more space, but they are also easy to wheel away into a closet in the off-season. Window air conditioners require a bit more work to dismount them to store for the winter. With that said, once taken off, they can be put away in small spaces until you need them again.
Might not be for renters: Some home rentals and apartments do not permit the installation of window AC units, especially ones that will go through the wall. Check with the homeowner or landlord to confirm before considering this time.
Only fits standard-sized windows: A window AC will only fit standard-sized windows, so if you like in an old house (like I do) with smaller windows in certain rooms, it might not work.
If you own your home and are looking to cool a large room, a window air conditioner can be a good investment. It will cool a large room and won’t take up any valuable floor space. If you live where it tends to be hot for more than just a few months out of the year, you might appreciate a window AC as a more permanent installation solution. If you’re on a tight budget, and only looking to cool a single room, it might be worth trying out a window AC to see how it works for you.
A portable air conditioning unit is, as the name implies, a portable, floorstanding unit that uses a hose to exhaust air from the room, then run that air out through a window or wall. There are also dual-hose models, with one hose that can bring in air from outside to cool the condenser, and a second hose to exhaust the heated air out. The house typically vents through a window. Some are self-evaporating and can recycle condensation back into the air, most require water drainage from time to time.
Easy to move around: Most portable air conditioners come on wheels and with a carry handle making them easy to move from room to room. You might want to cool your home office during the day, for example, then move it to the bedroom at night. It’s easy to do this, though keep in mind that if it comes with a vent hose, you would have to mount it to the window in each room.
Ideal for apartment dwellers, renters: If you rent a home or apartment and the landlord does not permit window AC installation, a portable AC is the perfect solution. You can still keep the home cool without having to break the rules. This is especially useful if the building shuts of the central AC at a specific time of the year but the hot and humid weather continues beyond that.
Lots of features: The latest portable AC units have tons of cool features, from built-in timers to adjustable levels and even smart app control. Note that you can get these with window AC units as well. But with the ability to move a portable AC unit around, this can be especially useful.
Easy to store away for the season: When you’re done with a portable AC, simply dismount the exhaust house and wheel it into a closet or the corner of a room. If you need it again during an unexpected heat wave, it’s easy to get back up and running without a complicated installation process.
Possibly not as effective for larger rooms: Some experts say that a portable model isn’t as effective as a window AC unit in cooling large spaces. Estimates for the average room size hover around the 300-400 square-foot range. So you might want to opt for these only if you’re looking to cool relatively small spaces.
Can be noisier: Portable AC units can be noisier. This will vary from unit to unit, and depends on the space you’re using it in as well.
Can be more expensive: Since they are larger, easy to move from room-to-room, and don’t require installation in a window (other than for the vent hose, portable AC units can be more expensive.
If you’re looking to cool different rooms at different times of the day, like a home office or living room during working hours and bedroom or nursery at night, a portable AC night is the best option. They are easy to move around, often on castors or with a built-in or recessed handle. Installation is simple, typically just involving plugging the unit in and mounting the exhaust hose to your open window. If you live in a rented apartment or house, a portable AC might be the only option if the landlord does not permit window AC installation. Finally, portable AC units are ideal for smaller rooms. They take up some floor space, but if you have a suitable corner to place it in, it will work well.
Regardless of whether you decide to go window or portable, there are a few key things to look for with the model you choose.
Look for a model that offers a relatively easy installation process, and has easy to clean filters and a simple process for water drainage (even better if the design eliminates the need to empty a bucket altogether).
You can save on energy by looking for a model with multiple settings so you can adjust how cool the room gets, and especially if you opt for one with a dedicated energy savings mode. Even better if you can set times when it goes on and off. For example, you might want to have it kick in every day a half hour before you arrive home from work, then shut off first thing in the morning. Some also have sleep modes so they’ll automatically turn off after a set period of time so you don’t accidentally leave it running while you’re gone for the day.
For portable air conditioners, look for the SACC BTU rating or, if it isn’t on the product just yet (labeling might take time), choose a model with a higher rating than you’ll need to ensure sufficient cooling. We discuss what these measurements mean in the air conditioners buying guide. For window it conditioners, look at how big a space it is rated to cool to ensure it will be sufficient for your space.
A handy remote will make it easy to control the unit from the comfort of the couch or bed. Some might even include Wi-Fi so you can control them alongside other smart home devices, or even by voice.
Make sure you can adjust the direction of the cooling so it isn’t blasting right at you, for example, or ideally, oscillating to keep the entire space evenly cooled. Some models even have a follow feature that will keep the cool air directed at you at all times, no matter where you are in the room.
Some air conditioners, especially portable models, have dual functions, like the ability to emit hot air as well during the winter months. Some also come with built-in air purification so you can not only keep the room cool but clean the air as well. Others work as fans and dehumidifiers, so look at what else models you’re considering can do, and if those secondary features would be useful.
Once you’ve selected the right type of air conditioner and the perfect models to meet your needs, sit back and enjoy the cool breeze and comfort.
Best Buy offers a wide selection of both window and portable air conditioners. Need more help deciding? Learn everything you need to know about air conditioners to help you make the right decision in our air conditioners buying guide.
The post Portable vs. window AC unit: which should you choose? appeared first on Best Buy Blog.
]]>Are you tired of digging through a cluttered mess whenever you need to grab a tube of toothpaste or a washcloth from under your bathroom sink? Or maybe you have a small bathroom with limited storage space, and you’re struggling to find a way to keep everything organized and accessible. Well, fear not! In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 25 brilliant under-bathroom-sink storage ideas to help you maximize the space under your bathroom sink.
From clever baskets and hooks to creative uses of your drawer and cabinet space, these tips and tricks will transform your under-sink area from chaotic to orderly so you can start your day with a clear mind and a clutter-free routine. So let’s dive in and discover the secrets of efficient and stylish bathroom sink organization!
This post contains affiliate links.
I know what it feels like to have a cluttered mess in your bathroom cabinet. Do not fear, my fellow decluttering friends! I have compiled 25 under-bathroom sink storage ideas to bring some order to your life.
With this simple addition to your under-bathroom sink storage, you’ll be amazed at how much more space you have and how much more efficient your routine becomes. A beautiful basket is a great way to store extra towels, washcloths, and toilet paper rolls. Plus, it looks stylish and can be easily moved around.
When choosing baskets, opt for the right size and shape to fit under your sink cabinet. Wicker baskets are a classic choice and can add a natural touch to your bathroom décor. Alternatively, a wire basket can provide a modern and sleek look.
Adding shelves can be a game-changer if you have a lot of vertical space under your sink. Shelves can be an efficient and stylish solution to maximize your under-bathroom sink storage space. Consider using wire or acrylic shelves, which are durable and lightweight, or opt for wooden shelves for a rustic look.
Before you spend even a dime, make sure you’ve taken the time to measure your bathroom cabinet well (both the depth and the height) and the items you plan to store. Without a perfect fit, you’re inviting clutter under your sink again.
Once you’ve got your measurements, consider the endless possibilities! You can stash cleaning supplies, toiletries, or even small baskets to keep things tidy.
If your sink has a drawer, take advantage of it! Use it to store items that tend to clutter up your countertop like:
Not only does a drawer help to keep your bathroom organized, but it also keeps your items out of sight, giving your bathroom a neat and polished look.
Consider using drawer dividers to organize your items further and make them easier to find. Grab your set! Below are a few of our favorite drawer dividers found on Amazon.
Use the back of your cabinet doors by adding small bucket organizers for your cleaning supplies or hair brushes. This is a great way to utilize unused space and keep your frequently-used items within easy reach. Plus, it helps to keep your sink cabinet clutter-free and organized.
Organizing under your bathroom sink is like navigating a rough sea, where the currents of clutter and chaos constantly drag you under. Fear not; you can conquer this tempestuous terrain with the right tools.
Investing in a set of clear bins is like having a compass that guides you toward organizational bliss. Separating and categorizing your small items like cotton balls, hair ties, and makeup brushes will create a sense of order that will make you feel like the captain of your ship.
You can’t deny the satisfaction of knowing where everything is supposed to be. Let me tell you, labels are the answer to all your problems! Mark the contents of each bin, and voila! Easy access in no time!
As for clear bins, they’re a real lifesaver! You can find all sorts of colors and sizes on Amazon. Here are some of my favorites:
A shower caddie (Available on Amazon) can be hung on the inside of your bathroom cabinet door and used to store lotions, shampoo, and soap, for example. Or it can be a convenient way to keep your cleaning supplies and other small items. You can use a caddy with handles to move your items around the bathroom easily. This is particularly helpful if you need to clean multiple areas.
I found a great double-decker pull-out organizer that is perfect for under the sink. It stores items like:
Vertical divider shelves are a wise investment for your bathroom under-sink storage; found on Amazon, they help maximize available space. These shelves come with multiple compartments, enabling you to store everything – from cleaning supplies and toiletries to small towels.
Their upright configuration allows for an effortless search and retrieval of your belongings, and the compartments ensure that your items remain sorted and uncluttered. Installing these shelves is as simple as sliding them in place, providing a practical and effective under-sink storage system.
Check these out on Amazon, and have your 12 vertical dividers delivered to your door!
I love stacking bins! They’re so versatile in sizes, shapes, and colors that everyone can find the perfect option for their bathroom!
A pedestal sink storage organizer is an excellent solution for those with a pedestal sink and no cabinet or storage space underneath. This organizer, found on Amazon, fits around the base of the pedestal sink and provides shelves for storing toiletries, towels, and other bathroom essentials.
It helps keep the area around the sink clutter-free and allows easy access to items. The compact design also makes it a great space-saving solution for small bathrooms or rentals.
Everyone needs a lazy Susan in the bathroom!
Magazine holders can be a surprisingly valuable tool for organizing the clutter under your bathroom sink. These holders are typically designed to hold magazines. However, they’re also the perfect size to install on the bathroom cabinet door and to store items like your hair dryer, curling iron, and spray bottles.
Trays, in all shapes and sizes, can be an optimal choice for those seeking to organize the chaotic space under the bathroom sink.
Strategically placing trays underneath the sink makes them simple to maintain, protecting your precious cabinets from messy spills and leaks. A variety of trays with different shapes and sizes are available on the market to suit your specific storage requirements.
You can find one here!
Are you tired of looking for your toothbrush on a cluttered bathroom counter with soaps, shampoo bottles, and lotions on a busy morning? Then allow me to introduce you to the versatile caddy! With its handy ability to store all your toiletries, a caddy is both practical and portable. Wait, there’s more!
Not only does a caddy fulfill its utilitarian function, it can also add an air of sophistication to your bathroom décor. So why not choose a stylish caddy that perfectly complements your bathroom’s aesthetic and place it on your countertop or under your sink for a clean, organized look?
I love this clear caddy available on Amazon! It’s a wonderful way to keep everything stored and visible.
Hooks are used to hang towels and could also be an excellent way to utilize the back of your cabinet doors. You can install them and hang your hair ties, headbands, brushes, and other items that you use regularly. This will keep everything organized and easily accessible. Just like in this photo!
A well-organized drawer can be a real savior for storing makeup. Add clear dividers or organizers to keep everything sorted, and you’ll have a smooth morning routine. No more time wasted searching for your favorite lipstick or eye shadow.
This is the perfect organizer to store your cleaning supplies and keep them separate from your other items found on Amazon. This will help you stay organized and ensure that no cleaning chemicals accidentally spill onto your items. It’s a simple solution that can make a big difference in tidying your under-bathroom sink.
Order one from Amazon today!
Tension rods are another wise bathroom storage solution for under your bathroom sink. By installing a tension rod (or a curtain rod), you can hang your cleaning supplies, spray bottles, and other items you use frequently. This will help you free up cabinet space and find what you need.
You can also use command hooks to hang everything – from hair brushes and storage baskets to an extra toilet paper roll or washcloth. These hooks can be easily installed without damaging your bathroom cabinets, making them a versatile and convenient storage solution.
Command hooks can hang a hair dryer or curling iron, keeping them off your bathroom counter and freeing up counter space. This will free up space in your bathroom and make it easier to access them on a busy morning.
Having an adjustable under-bathroom sink storage is simply amazing! You can also use it to store everything and easily take it out to clean it when needed.
Need a simple solution to organize under your bathroom sink? Well, this brilliant storage idea will help you put in order your cleaning and washing supplies in no time!
If you need to declutter under your bathroom sink, wire undershelves might do the trick. These multipurpose shelves can effortlessly corral all those smaller toiletries that are scattered around without sacrificing convenience or accessibility.
Besides, they’re not just limited to the bathroom! With a set of 4 shelves, you can expand your organizational repertoire to other parts of your home (the pantry, closet, or even the garage). Don’t hesitate – order your wire undershelves today from Amazon and kick your clutter to the curb!
If you have a cabinet in your bathroom, store small items at the back of its door. You can add additional hooks or a shower caddy. This is a great space-saving solution that uses space you normally don’t use the full capacity of. Also, it’s easy to move around!
Get one from Amazon now!
Use mesh two-tier drawers to store your hair and skin products and keep them separate from your other items. It looks so pretty, too!
Do you want a pretty and functional setup for your bathroom under-sink storage? Grab some bins and labels, and beat the chaos in your bathroom once and for all!
When it comes to organizing under your bathroom sink, if you have a small bathroom sink, the key is to maximize your limited space. With some planning and smart storage solutions, you can turn this often-overlooked storage space into a tidy and functional area.
If you’re looking for storage solutions for small living spaces, you might want to check my other posts with brilliant bathroom organization ideas or creative laundry room ideas.
Are you tired of your bathroom sink cabinet being in constant chaos? If so, look no further than these expert tips for organizing your space!
To kickstart your organizational journey, empty the contents of your bathroom sink cabinet completely. Yes, you read that right – take everything out and pile it up. This may seem overwhelming, but trust me, it’s an essential first step.
Next, give your bathroom sink cabinet a thorough cleaning. Wipe down the cabinet’s interior and pipes, removing any unwanted debris or dust. After all, a fresh start is what we all need from time to time!
Before you begin organizing, determine what you actually need to store under your sink. Don’t mindlessly put items back into the cabinet – be strategic about it. Consider your list of must-have items, and plan your storage solutions accordingly. This will allow you to determine the most suitable storage options for your needs.
Need some inspiration for what to store under the sink? Here are some common items that can benefit from being stored within easy reach:
Before you start organizing, measure the depth and height of your cabinet to ensure that your storage solutions will fit. Under-sink storage space can be tight, so make sure you measure well and plan a few inches of spacing. It is also necessary to account for obstructions, such as pipes or any other hardware, that you can’t move around.
Once you know what you want to store and the dimensions of your space, it’s time to plan and shop for storage solutions. Look for items that fit the space, such as baskets, shelves, and drawers. If your cabinet has a door, consider using the back of the door for added storage space with hooks, caddies, or trays.
Congratulations on making it this far! Now that you have all the necessary tools to organize your bathroom sink cabinet, it’s time to get to work.
With the 25 tips and ideas from this blog post, you can turn the often-neglected space under your bathroom sink into a functional and organized storage area. Happy organizing!
There you have it, ladies – 25 brilliant under-bathroom sink organization ideas to simplify your daily routine! With these clever storage solutions and organization tips, you can transform even the most cluttered and cramped under-sink spaces into functional and stylish storage zones. From baskets and bins to drawer dividers and tension rods, there’s a solution for every need and preference.
So don’t let the chaos and clutter under your bathroom sink bring you down – take control of your space and enjoy the benefits of a tidy and efficient bathroom. I hope you’ve found some inspiration and ideas to try out, and I wish you all the best in your decluttering and organizing journey. Happy tidying!
Do you know another under-bathroom sink storage idea I missed on this list? I would also love to hear if you’ve found exactly what you need to organize your bathroom! Tell me about it in the comment section!
The post 25 Brilliant Ways To Organize Under The Bathroom Sink appeared first on Happy Organized Life.
]]>The result is a list of cruise packing hacks that includes some tried-and-true advice (like taking magnets because cruise ship cabin walls are metal), as well as a few things you may not have heard before, like the best way to transport your allotted carry-on wine.
For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter.
Here’s hoping you find some useful and creative tips in this list of the top 26 cruise packing hacks.
I created a cruise packing list in the reminder app on my phone. I use the same list for every cruise but add to or subtract from it based on the destination. I start tweaking my list weeks before the cruise so I know exactly what I need when it’s time to pack.
Note which items you need to buy before your trip, whether it’s additional travel-sized toiletries, a new swimsuit or an outfit for pirate night, white night or an ‘80s-themed party.
No matter what kind of luggage you take, checked and carry-on bags should have personal tags with your name, email address and phone number. It should also be easily distinguished from other bags from a distance. You can use brightly colored handle wraps, zip ties, ribbons, straps or stretchy covers over the whole bag.
Why should you personalize your suitcase? Just last week, I got off a small commuter jet in Phoenix that had required all passengers to gate-check our roll-aboard bags. As I ran to my connecting gate 10 minutes later, I heard an announcement alerting passengers from my earlier flight to check they had the correct carry-on bag. Someone had mistakenly grabbed the wrong bag on the jet bridge. Had it been me, I would have missed my connection.
Also, remove all old cruise and airline tags and stickers from your luggage to avoid confusion.
Related: How to cruise with just a carry-on
A digital tracking device can save the day when the airline loses your bag, or you’re fretting that your suitcase didn’t make it onto the cruise ship. TPG staffers swear by Apple AirTags and similar tracking devices that allow you to see in real time where your bags are.
It happens. I’ve met people with missing luggage on every ship I’ve sailed this year.
A friend recently had a lost bag in Athens and might not have retrieved it in time for his cruise had he not had a tracker inside that clearly showed the airline personnel that his bag was in the airport. A woman on a recent Celebrity cruise told me Delta refused to help her because their tracking showed her bag was delivered to the carousel. Had she used a digital tracking device, she could have proven them wrong and possibly gotten her bag back.
Related: What it’s really like to use Apple’s new AirTags to track your luggage
Mainstream cruise lines supply bag tags with your name and cabin number that you print at home. This leads to a conundrum: Do you affix the flimsy paper tags at home before you fly (and risk them getting ripped off), or do you wait until you arrive and hope you can locate a stapler?
My cruise packing hack is to buy clear plastic sleeves made specifically for this purpose. Put the printed tags in the sleeves, keep them in your carry-on bag, then attach them to all your luggage before you head to the pier. Yes, you’ll want to affix the cruise line tags to your carry-ons in case you accidentally walk away from them during the boarding process or once on board.
You could pack a portable fan or bulky white noise machine to block out ship sounds at night … or you could save space in your luggage and download a white noise or other sleep sounds app instead. Test out a few to find your perfect soothing sounds.
While you’re at it, download your cruise line, airline and pre-cruise hotel’s app, as well as the Mobile Passport Control app to speed up the customs process.
As much as I recommend using the cruise line’s app, more than once, I have found myself standing in a cruise terminal with terrible phone and Wi-Fi service, making it impossible to show my boarding documents in the app. Always have a printed copy as your backup plan. You’ll get on board much quicker.
Check your card offers before you leave home. Before my last cruise, I noticed I could register for 5 points per dollar on restaurant charges on my airline-branded credit card. It came in handy for airport food and pre-cruise dining. Extra points or miles for ride-hailing services, taxis and car rentals are also common. However, you won’t know if you don’t check before.
Don’t just take one card. Traveling makes you a target for thieves and scammers. You don’t want to be stranded in a foreign country with your only credit card deactivated because a scammer forced you to shut it down.
Related: Use these credit cards to maximize your next cruise vacation
Packing everything you need for a hotel night in your carry-on does two things. You won’t need to dig through your large suitcase for clothes or toiletries for one or two nights. Also, you will have at least some necessities should the airline lose your main suitcase.
If you can’t fit clothes in your carry-on, at least pack your pre-cruise necessities in a separate packing cube placed at the top of your suitcase, so you can pull it out and not tear apart your carefully packed bag.
Even if you’re flying straight from home to the cruise port, pack like you’re spending a night in a hotel. Pack a complete change of clothes and necessary toiletries in your carry-on bag.
Why? Delays and lost luggage. If something goes wrong with your flight, you’re prepared with everything you need to get by during an unexpected overnight layover or a day without your checked bags.
Related: Items you should always pack in your cruise carry-on bag
Do the same traveling home from your cruise. You’ll be prepared for travel delays and can take advantage of airline offers for gift cards or travel vouchers if you volunteer for a different flight due to overbooking. I once made $1,200 taking an overnight bump in Frankfurt while returning from a cruise. If I didn’t have an extra outfit in my carry-on bag, I might not have been tempted to take the deal.
Everyone has their preferences when it comes to doing laundry on vacation. Some people pack a different outfit for each day, while others pack light and plan to wash clothing on board. Personally, I pack a little less and either do a load of laundry in the self-serve laundry facilities (if available) or pay for a few pieces to be washed and folded.
Before you decide, do the math. It might be cheaper or more convenient to pay for someone else to do your washing mid-cruise if it means you can avoid checking a bag.
Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry services
The best part about organizing your cruise luggage with packing cubes is that unpacking is super quick.
When your bags arrive, pull out each cube, unzip, fold the top underneath the filled bottom portion of the cube and place the entire thing in a drawer without unpacking it. Use as many as you need to organize each person’s things the way you would want them organized in the cruise cabin’s drawers. The unpacking process will take mere minutes, and then it’s back to the pool deck.
Packing cubes often include a shoe bag or two. You’ll need several. Shoe bags prevent sand or dirt from getting on your clothes and other belongings. I don’t know about you, but my flip-flops and water shoes do not belong next to my snorkel or my water bottle.
My mom has the right idea about footwear on cruise ships. She wears sparkly sneakers — even on dress-up nights. I recently ditched my heels for comfortable black sneakers I pair with skirts, slacks and dresses. If your cute sneaks can stand up to touring by day but look good with your evening wear, you’ve just saved a ton of space in your suitcase.
Men often have it even easier, getting by with a single pair of dress sneakers for an entire cruise.
Related: Cruisewear for men: What guys should pack for a cruise
If you’re packing a straw hat, you’ll need to protect it inside your luggage. Bras are ideal for this. Or, purchase a cylindrical zippered bra laundry bag. Put it in the crown of your hat. If there’s extra space, wrap the bra bag with a pair of tights or yoga pants. You can also coil belts inside a hat.
Similarly, stuff sneakers or dress shoes with socks or rolled-up ties to protect the shoe’s shape and use all available space for packing.
If everything you pack coordinates with everything else, you can mix and match endlessly. I go with black pants, shorts and skirts because you can add almost any color top. I add a few black tops, including one with sequins, that I can jazz up with scarves, which weigh less and take up less room than most evening wear. Plan to re-wear bottoms at least twice during your trip.
Related: What to wear on a cruise: Cruise attire and cruise line dress codes
You can never entirely predict the weather where you are cruising. Even on a Caribbean cruise, you may encounter an afternoon rain storm or chilly dining rooms and theaters on board. Prioritize clothing you can layer, such as sweaters, lightweight vests and zip-up hoodies.
Consider travel pants with zip-off legs that convert them to shorts. Also, you can wear a lightweight UPF shirt over a tank top if the sun’s rays are harsher than expected. Packing with layers in mind can provide more space than packing individual outfits for every possible weather scenario.
Cruise ship walls are typically magnetic, so you can use magnets to make your cabin more usable. Keep your daily newsletters, invitations and excursion tickets in order with magnetic clips affixed above the desk.
Magnetic hooks corral caps, visors, belts, backpacks, jackets and charging cords. Magnetic whiteboards allow you to leave messages for cabinmates. You can also use magnets to decorate your cabin door.
Cruise ship showers are notoriously cramped and often lack functional amenities. Pack items that will upgrade the experience.
Shower shelves and small baskets that attach to the shower walls or glass door via a suction cup will provide additional toiletry space, while suction-on hooks are handy for drip-drying swimsuits. Binder clips or magnetic shower weights can help clingy curtains stay in place. Also, bring a pack of aromatic shower steamers for a cheaper version of the aromatherapy showers found in the ship’s spa.
Cruise ship cabins can be extra dark at night, especially if you’ve pulled the blackout curtains closed or have booked a windowless inside cabin. Nightlights can help you find your way to the bathroom in the middle of the night without waking your cabinmates.
As electrical outlets are in short supply in most cruise cabins, you’ll need a battery-powered light, preferably motion-activated, if you don’t want it on all night.
Laugh all you want, but I carry one that’s designed for lighting up the toilet at night because it has a flexible arm that I can hook somewhere or position where I want it. A magnetic, battery-powered, motion-activated nightlight might be the perfect cruise ship device.
Related: 26 cruise secrets from a cruising expert that will blow your mind
If you’re packing enough shoes to warrant a 24-pocket shoe organizer, you’re probably over-packing, even for a world cruise. Instead, use the shoe organizer to pack and store your toiletries and other small items easily lost in your cabin clutter.
Cruise lines don’t want you scraping their doors with those metal over-the-door hangers, so affix the organizer with magnetic hooks instead.
Six 22-pound magnets across the top of the organizer keep it firmly in place with almost anything I want inside the pockets. If the shoe organizer is too big, cut it in half or into thirds and use flat magnets to attach the pieces without grommets. Again, make sure you buy extra-strong magnets so the full organizer does not slide down the wall or door.
Hang the toiletry bag outside the bathroom — it makes sharing the already-cramped bathroom easier.
Rare is the cruise cabin with enough electrical outlets in the spaces where you want them most. Solve that problem by packing a couple of outlet extenders. If they aren’t surge-protected, most cruise ships allow these splitters.
Another option is an adapter that plugs into a European outlet, adapting it to a 110-volt U.S. standard outlet. That allows you to use both the European and U.S. outlets in your cabin.
Don’t let dirty laundry accumulate on the floor of your cabin’s closet or around your room. Pack a lightweight bag you can fill as you go, then pack it with its contents intact at the end of the trip. If you’re extra organized, sort laundry by travel companion or separate colors from whites. Top the bags off with dryer sheets when they are full to reduce odors. The goal is to make both end-of-cruise packing and laundry day back home easier.
Alternatively, open up one suitcase under the bed and throw all your dirty clothes in there as you go.
Need a place to stash that extra cookie you brought back from the buffet? Swimsuit didn’t dry quickly enough to pack it on your last night? Worried about your camera getting wet in the rain? Want to organize your stuff rather than tossing it loose into your backpack? Plastic bags solve all of these. I always pack several sizes to have on hand when I cruise.
I learned this cruise packing hack from TPG’s Ashley Kosciolek, but I learned it the hard way. I initially ignored her advice and found myself roaming the streets of Bonaire in search of duct tape to repair a scuba fin broken by baggage handlers. In the end, I had to buy a new set of fins. I’ve also faced cracked luggage and even sunglasses that could have been salvaged if only I’d had some duct tape. Now I pack it for every sailing.
Related: 20 must-have cruise items — including a roll of duct tape
Tiny containers like pill organizers and contact lens cases are handy for packing small things like earrings, necklaces, small dabs of cosmetics or medications. Before you buy special travel organizers for jewelry or cosmetics, consider repurposing items you have at home.
Yes, the cruise ship’s medical facility will have basics. However, it’s easier and cheaper to take your own first-aid kit.
Here’s a starter list:
Packing for a cruise doesn’t have to be hard, but it does take some foresight — and a little ingenuity.
Your cruise cabin will not be as spacious as the average hotel room, but a little creativity can help overcome cruise cabin shortfalls.
When it comes to fitting everything into your suitcase, the best advice is to pack less than you think you need and find cruise packing hacks that let clothing items do double duty.
Ultimately, the best cruise packing hacks take some of the stress out of preparing for your cruise vacation, so getting ready for your trip can be enjoyable, too.
Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:
Last spring, I embarked on a journey to find the best linen pants ahead of an upcoming beach vacation. I wanted a pair to throw over swimsuit bottoms on the way to the pool and to wear with a nice shirt and heels for dinner out. After trying on multiple pairs over $100, and walking away empty-handed, I was beginning to accept my fate of a linen-less vacation. The morning before my trip, I made a last-minute run to Target where I found not one, not two, but three pairs of my dream linen pants. The best part? Each pair was only $25. My receipt total for the three pairs was less than just one of the pairs I had tried from other stores and the pants exceeded all of my expectations.
A full year and multiple beach excursions have gone by since I purchased my holy grail linen Target pants. I can confidently say they are one of the best purchases I’ve ever made and I simply can’t stop wearing them. The material is soft and lightweight without being super see-through (I’d just recommend wearing a pair of nude underwear). The linen creases and wrinkles slightly with wear but in a way that looks natural—I’ve never found myself desiring a portable steamer mid-day.
I personally love styling mine with a ribbed tank, a bikini top or a crisp button-down for spring and summer days. Once you have this pair of linen pants in your closet, you’ll never want to wear jeans again—especially on brutally hot and humid days.
I’m 5’5” and the pants are slightly long on me in a good way—this means that if you’re a little taller, they’ll be the perfect length and if you’re a little shorter you can either wear them high-waisted or get them hemmed. If a trip to the tailor isn’t your thing, just throw them in the wash and they’ll shrink a bit (speaking from experience).
I own the Target linen pants in white (my favorite), beige (currently in stock) and a beige-and-white striped combo. Target has the exact style of pants in stock right now in five colors and patterns. If you order a pair and like the fit, keep your eye on the Target site for re-stocks of colors. The second Target adds the white pair back online, I’m buying another.
This beige pair will be your neutral go-to whether you’re hitting the beach or the grocery store.
If you have a dressier event, black linen pants are a great pick. Wear this with a white silk tank and heels for an evening look.
This animal print pair of linen pants are perfect for your next vacation.
Orange is definitely one of the big colors for spring and summer this year. This citrus hue will add a fun pop of color to your look.
Bring tropical vacay energy to your every day with this adorable pair of patterned linen pants. To create the ultimate outfit, draw from any of the colors in the pattern and wear it in sweater, tank or bikini form.
]]>Shower rods, or tension rods, may not come to mind as a DIY tool, but you shouldn’t underestimate their power; there are few things that are more versatile than a shower rod. Not only can you use shower rods in multiply ways, but they are also cheap, install quickly, and are completely removable. There are some great ideas for using shower rods in those awkward, hard-to-fit areas where nothing else seems to work. In addition, they won’t damage walls, cabinets, or closets. Like most people, you probably only thought of using shower rods for their intended purpose, or perhaps for hanging curtains in a pinch, so most of these ideas you may never even thought to consider. Shower rods can do so much more than just hold up your shower curtain! You’ll be surprised at just how many interesting decor tricks and home hacks there are. Here’s 20 ways you never thought of using a shower rod.
We’ll start with the most obvious, which is using a shower rod as a window treatment. However, that is where the obvious ends. You don’t have to use it just as a make-shift curtain rod, although they are perfect for hanging or laying curtains when you don’t want to make holes in your walls or windows. If you want to completely black out your windows or keep curtains from moving, mount another shower rod at the bottom for holding curtains in place. This works best with the smaller shower rods atleast a half an inch in diameter. Remember, the pots, plants, dirt, and water will all combine for a fair amount of weight.
While we’re on the subject of windows, the next idea is a hanging herb garden. Hang a small shower rod mid-way in your window and hang small pots of your favorite herbs. If you have a tall window, you can layer rows. Not only will they provide you with fresh herbs, but they’re make your home smell scrumptious! If you don’t want to grow herbs, however, you can hang any type of plant that loves light. Vines are cool because you can wrap them around the rod at intervals, creating a jungle vibe.
Not only can under-sink storage get messy, but it’s also limited in space, especially in the kitchen if you add in water filtration and garbage disposal parts as well. It’s no wondered just a small space can turn into a cluttered mess in which you can never find what you’re looking for. Here’s a simple solution using a short tension rod: brace the rod across the top of the cabinet, just low enough for clearance. Now you can elevate cleaning supplies such as spray bottles, brushes, and rags. In addition, you’ll know have extra space below the hanging cleaning supplies for whatever can’t be hung like sponges, cans, or whatever you need to place there.
If you love shoes and are running out of room to store them, use a few shower curtain rods to get the high heels off the floor while making a display for them as well. This is a great trick for using inside your closet and you can hang any shoe with a heel big enough to hook over the rod. It not only looks great, but it also gets shoes off the floor, making much more room, and it makes so much easier to see what you have when it comes time to get dressed and choose a pair.
This idea seems to be quite popular and surely shows someone was “thinking outside the box”!. Give your pet some privacy by putting up a curtain around his/her litter box area. This will hide the litter box while also giving your little guy some privacy. Either under a shelf in the bathroom or remove a panel from a cabinet door and hang a tension rode with something to match the room it’s in or just something plain. Either way, you or your houseguests will never have to see the litter box again (except for changing it, of course!)
Don’t just consider where you can use a shower rod horizontally, but also vertically! Install one from floor to bottom of shelf, from a table top to the ceiling, or from counter to cabinet bottom. One clever idea is to spray paint the rod (this particular person used copper) and attach drilled plates for holding things. However, you can use any type of container, such as baskets, bowls, or whatever you decide to use. This shower rod idea can be used just about anywhere, such as showers, garages, and pantries. We like the idea of using it on cabinet tops for storing fruit and vegetables.
These adjustable bars are great for those who have lots of craft supplies. Use a shower rod to hang ribbon, tape, wrapping paper, and other such materials. You can also use a combination of a couple of tension rods, using one up high for holding ribbons and tape and one down lower (or two) for placing wrapping paper behind. Then you can place another one in front of the wrapping paper row for gift bags, cards, and tissue paper. This keeps everything nice and organized and craft supplies are where you can find them when you need them. This idea can be used for craft junkies as well as for gift wrapping stations!
Sinks which don’t have cabinets underneath can sometimes be unsightly to the eye, showing all that under-sink plumbing and whatnot. Using small tension rods will allow you to add a sink skirt that will not only cover the under parts of the sink, but also add some color and style to your kitchen or bathroom.
This can also be used on pretty tables used as desks to cover all the electrical cords. Just hang curtains on tension rods under the table between the legs. It adds a homey touch and you can use colors to match the room. This also works on antique desks and other types of tables and desks you may use for a work and computer area.
Another way to “skirt the issue” is by using a shower rod to hang a curtain over a doorway that has no door, making impromptu closet doors, or simply screening off an area you want to be private. It’s much cheaper than installing a door and there’s so many options for a tension rod DIY door.
We love this one! It’s so creative and makes cleaning up after bath time a breeze. Simply use a shower rod and rings for hanging small open-mesh or plastic bins or buckets. By placing them right on the side of the tub, it makes it easy for you (or your child) to clean up. You won’t be stepping around toys when it’s your turn and there’s always a place for them. This neat idea also keeps up the clutter, making your bathroom a lot neater. Once your child gets a bit older, you can get them to help put toys away as part of the end of bath time.
This is another favorite idea and, again, it’s just so creative. If you want an easy way to show off your photos and be able to switch them out easily whenever you want, all without taking up much needed desk room, simply use a painted tension rod to match your furniture or room. We like using brass paint for the old-timey look. Then add shower hooks with clips to the rod for pics to hang from and you’ve got an easy way of display pics that is also easily moved out of the way or switched out with newer pictures. In addition, the clips can also hold other types of mementos as well. (This idea is for desks with a top shelf, but you may be able to think of another way of using it.)
While we’re talking about desks, you may have an open desk that needs separators for folders or important papers you need to keep, such as the title to your car. Short, small tension rods are great for organizing your desk drawer by converting a regular drawer into file storage.
If your have found you’re having trouble making your pot lids, cookie sheets, and cutting boards fit in your cabinets or you simply just want to free up more space, using shower rods in order for these items to sit up vertically will do the trick. If it always seems like the cookie sheet you need is at the bottom of the stack, change the stack to vertical! Remove shelves and replace them with several tension rods from cabinet ceiling to floor and you now have several vertical storage cubicles for items such as cookie sheets and cutting boards.
Another way to use tension rods for making extra space is by mounting them on the inside of your cabinet doors for holding pot lids. Not only does this free up more space, but you’ll also never have to search for a particular lid again. You can also use them in cabinets for storing plastic lids as well.
Whether you want a custom bedskirt or a matching dust ruffle, using shower rods to hang them under your bed frame is both quick and easy. Furthermore, if you decide to use different colors, this is easier to change than those that go under your mattress. Simply hang a valance, either one you buy or one you make, for a makeshift bedskirt.
These are also perfect for both kids’ rooms and dorms. Use tension rods to hang curtains on a bunk bed or high lofted bed to hide whatever is behind it.
Another way of using tension rods for the bed is for hanging a canopy if you have a bed with high posts or frame. This makes a bed so cozy and gives it that cottage-style feel.
The way curtains can be used for open storage solutions, they can also be used the same way on bookshelves. Simply use a tension rod with your choice of fabric, either something fun or that matches your furniture. It’s quick and easy and makes a decorating statement while hiding clutter behind them. Bookcases are great, but sometimes they get too cluttered. This clever idea keeps clutter to a minimum while make a decorative statement everyone will notice.
This generally works better in children’s room where you can place a small dresser or shelf inside their closet and hang a shower rod from the side of the dresser to the opposite wall, making another place for hanging clothes. However, as children grow, there may not be enough room. However, there are other ways to used tension rods for making extra clothing storage. Use a standard shelf or chest and bracket both sides with rods against the opposites walls if you don’t mind having your clothes hanging opening. If you have an old bookcase with missing shelves, take the rest of the shelves out and replace with shower rod(s) and you have a makeshift closet.
A small shower rod mounted under a small art table or the kitchen table is perfect for holding a roll of art paper. When it’s time for painting or coloring, simply roll a piece of paper out and over the table. When it’s not in use, it stays hidden. This can give children (and adults) hours of entertainment. Keep a box of crayons, markers, and/or coloring pencils nearby so it’s always a handy distraction. If you have several children, mount one at each place seating or chair. Get the whole family in on it! This will give you the opportunity to spend time with your children while promoting their creativity.
If you don’t ever seem to have enough room for storing your jewelry, make more room by using tension rods. They’re perfect for hanging all kinds of jewelry on and you can paint them any color to match either your furniture or your bedding. In addition, this keeps all your necklaces and bracelets from becoming tangled. Plus, it allows you to easily find pieces instead of having to search several places when getting ready.
You can also use this idea for hanging scarves. We like to use several shower rods, one right under another, so we can loop the scarves back and forth to make a cool pattern when they’re not in use. Again, this keeps your scarves from getting lost; you can always find the one you’re looking for. It also helps to keep them in the best condition, preventing nicks and snags.
A tension rod can be the perfect way to show your holiday spirit or support your favorite team. Simply use a shower rod to hang holiday decoration in your window(s). You can take them down easily and change them whenever you want to. Celebrate each holiday with a unique window hanging like a Fourth of July bunting or a sports team’s flag. There’s no end to how this creative trick can be used!
If you don’t want your paper towels hanging out on your kitchen counter or on top of the fridge, store them in a cabinet using a small tension rod. This will help take up less counter space while keeping it easily accessible.
Another cool kitchen hack for tension rods is installing one in your spice cabinet for elevating smaller bottles and cans so you can see them better! It also takes advantage of vertical space that is often wasted in spice cabinets because they do tend to be small containers. Utilizing a shower rod in your spice cabinet will add space you can keep your flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and other like products in for baking and cooking, having them all in the same place.
Give your kitchen outdoor cafe charm by adding a tension rode out in front of your original curtain rod, about a foot or so down, the length is up to you, and then drape an old valance over the second rod, giving your kitchen a whole new look with an old timey outdoor cafe feel. It’s little things like this that can actually give your kitchen a new feel and look.
This tip may actually save your life! In the DIY community, wiping stain is one of the most common types of wood stain. It’s easy and quick and they have great results. However, they do result in a bunch of stained rags which need to be disposed of properly. These rags need to be spread out to dry because the heat which is generated as they dry can cause them to catch on fire. If they are in a wadded up mess with no way for the heat to escape, the heat continues to rise, trapping oxygen in the rags, and before you know it, the whole pile goes up in flames, possibly taking your home with them.
We don’t want that to happen, so we including this neat hack in our list. Simply used a few shower rods to hang stained rags on to dry adequately before disposing of them properly. Be safe!
There are plenty more shower and tension rods ideas, but we’ve definitely given you an idea of all the ways they can be used. Now you can come up with your own ways of using them, such as a portable drying rod for when you’re away from home and/or weather doesn’t permit hanging clothing outside to dry. There’s just so many ways to use these handy rods. Be sure to try out some of our ideas and see how easy it is.
Plus, spring cleaning is a simple way to refresh and renew my living space. I’ve also discovered that my tidy apartment makes me happy.
Before I start cleaning, I set the mood. I open the windows and turn on my favorite tunes. This makes cleaning more fun!
Bottom line: do whatever you need to do to make this process enjoyable.
Here are a few more ideas to pair with cleaning:
With that in mind, let’s talk about spring cleaning ideas and tips.
The list below is specific to my home and life experience, so keep that in mind as you are reading. Consider using my list as a starting point. Also, I’d encourage you to make a spring cleaning checklist that is specific to your home, time constraints, and how you like to clean.
For example, you can clean in short 10-minute bursts or set aside a full weekend to do a big deep clean. Remember, there isn’t a spring cleaning committee that will evaluate your progress. There isn’t one right way to clean. The most important thing is to make the process fun and enjoyable.
Let’s get started!
Before I start cleaning, I make a list of what needs to be cleaned in my home. Then, I decide which areas of my space to tackle first. Finally, I gather my cleaning tools – like baking soda, white vinegar, bleach, a spray bottle, a mop, sponges, microfiber cloths – and begin.
I love opening my windows to air out my home (even in the winter). However, springtime breezes are the best. In the spring, it isn’t too hot or cold. Plus, the fresh air energizes me.
I’ve started to clean our appliances monthly. The items on my routine cleaning list include: our vacuum, garbage disposal, dishwasher, and laundry machine. Cleaning our appliances has made our house – and laundry – smell better. I use a product called Affresh®. Baking soda and bleach and water are great cleaning tools, too!
Spring cleaning is an excellent opportunity to declutter. For instance, I pay attention to problem areas like our junk drawers, closets, and kitchen cabinets. As I clean, I keep a donation box or bag nearby. As I declutter, I put things I no longer need in the box. Then I take it to a thrift store.
If you have a difficult time letting go of clothing, consider pairing spring cleaning with Project 333. The project is fun and will give you the tools to let go of clothes you don’t need. I also recommend reading – “The Practical Guide to a Closet Clean Out.”
My husband and I live in an area that’s prone to wildfires, so replacing our air filters regularly is essential. We signed up for a subscription service, so every quarter new air filters arrive in our mailbox. This makes it easy for us to remember to replace our old filters with new ones.
Every year, our landowner hires window cleaners. They clean the exterior windows for all the units in our apartment complex. It’s a great benefit of renting. When the window cleaners arrive, I’m reminded to clean our interior windows, blinds, and curtains.
Clean the inside and exterior surfaces of your refrigerator and stove top. If you can, unplug and use the built-in wheels to move your refrigerator. For example, I often find cat toys and crumbs underneath our refrigerator.
Also, most ovens have a “self-cleaning” feature that will turn mystery stains into ash. After the self-clean is complete and the oven is cool, I sweep out the ash. If you have a microwave, wipe that down too.
A few months ago, my husband bought contact paper for our food pantry and other kitchen cabinets. It’s made cleaning our kitchen shelves easier. Also, the project gave us the opportunity to discard staples in our pantry, like beans and spices, that expired.
Don’t forget to clean your kitchen cabinets. I touch my cabinets daily, so it’s important for me to keep them clean.
Some experts recommend cleaning coffee machines once a month. Consider using a descaler to remove minerals and grime. Plus, a clean coffee maker will result in better coffee!
Cleaning my toilet isn’t my favorite task, and it’s a non-negotiable task. I start at the base of the toilet and work my way up. Next on my list is cleaning my shower, bathroom sink, and shower doors or shower curtain and replacing liners. Then, I give the tile a good scrub. I’ve also made it a priority to sanitize bathroom cleaning tools like the plunger and toilet brush.
The following articles helped me tidy up my bathroom: “How to Properly Clean a Toilet” and “How to Clean a Shower So It Sparkles from Top to Bottom.”
Katie Holdefehr encouraged her readers to “make your trash smell better.” This is a great tip! I take my trash can outside, and scrub it with disinfectant and a sponge. Then I spray it down with water.
Spring cleaning is a good time to deep clean faucets, handles, and sinks. I usually take the handles off, then soak them in vinegar to remove mineralization and soap scum. I also use a toothpick or an old toothbrush to clean hard to reach places.
My mom gave me a beautiful small oak dining room table. Since it’s wood, either my husband or I will oil and wax the table. We do the same with our wood cutting boards. Daily wiping with soap and water dries out the wood over time, so oiling the wood seasonally helps restore the table and cutting boards back to their natural beauty.
It amazes me how much dust accumulates on lamps, light bulbs, and overhead lights. This is a good time to clean ceiling fans too. I use a damp towel to clean all our lights (and ceiling fans). Cleaning our light fixtures has made our home brighter. Plus, the air quality is cleaner.
Don’t forget to dust art and photos that hang on your walls. I use a microfiber cloth to gently dust photos and art. When dusting, consider wearing a face mask to help you breathe easier.
A few years ago, we purchased a couch. The couch is cozy, and it has removable covers. The fabric covers are easy to wash, and that’s simplified our cleaning process. I also vacuum and spot clean my throw pillows. Shake out area rugs too!
And, don’t forget to clean your pet furniture. Wash pet beds, blankets, and vacuum their furniture.
Our washing machine is very tiny, so we go to a local laundromat to wash bigger items like comforters, quilts, and pillows. I don’t do this weekly, so spring cleaning is an opportunity to wash our large blankets and other items.
Reevaluate what books you want to keep, and what books you want to donate to the library. For instance, I pull all the books off my bookshelf, clean the shelves, and then decide what to keep or give away.
I like cleaning under my oven, refrigerator, and couch. This requires a little more effort, and help. Moving big items, then vacuuming or mopping the space feels good!
Every year, I take time to clean the dust, dirt, and grime from my walls and baseboards. It’s an opportunity to remove scuff marks from my front door, too.
Clean your carpet with a portable cleaner or hire someone to help you. For example, last year we hired a professional to come and clean our carpet. It was one of the best purchases we made in 2021!
We’ve rearranged our living room a few times. It’s the main gathering space in our home, and we’ve created a space that is open, welcoming, and clutter free. For more tips read: Designer Tips For A Stunning Living Room Arrangement.
After your home is tidy, treat yourself! Go out to dinner, make a sweet treat, or take a long walk in the park. Do something that is fun and joyful and celebrate that you implemented these spring cleaning tips!
Bonus: clean your outdoor spaces too. Wash your deck, porch and or patio to encourage spring time outdoor activities.
If you’re not sure where to begin, explore the resource list below. The list is meant to aid your spring cleaning project, and inspire you.
1.) Listen to Courtney and Bailey share their spring cleaning ideas on the Soul and Wit podcast. They inspired me to make a new spring cleaning checklist and clean my home in short bursts.
2.) Do Project 333 or a closet cleanout. As Courtney said, “Cleaning out your closet can feel like a daunting task, but it doesn‘t have to be! With the right tools and a willingness to be honest about what you have and what you need, you can make your closet a happier space.”
3.) Watch “How to do laundry when you’re depressed” by KC Davis. Consider reading Davis’s book – How to Keep House While Drowning: A Gentle Approach to Cleaning and Organizing. It’s on my to-read list. And, check out Davis’s website – Struggle Care for more spring cleaning ideas.
4.) Explore Coutney’s archive of decluttering articles. It’s full of articles with amazing stories, resources, and ideas. Here’s a helpful piece to get you started: Decluttering Your Life: 7 Little Notes To Help You Let Go.
5.) Remember: spring cleaning isn’t a race or competition. Go at your own pace. Make the process joyful by pairing it with things you love and treat yourself afterwards.
In this article, I’ve shared how fun and easy spring cleaning can be. However, I want to acknowledge that cleaning isn’t easy or fun for everyone. Chronic illness, disability, ADHD, depression, and more can make spring cleaning – and daily chores – feel like an insurmountable challenge.
KC Davis – therapist and author – said, “Care tasks are morally neutral.” Davis explained that struggling with care tasks doesn’t make you lazy, irresponsible, or immature. She said, “… having an organized closet doesn’t make you a success. And living out of a pile of laundry on the floor doesn’t make you a failure.”
Keeping this in mind is essential. If you are struggling, remember you aren’t alone.
Over the years, I’ve lived in a very tiny house and in large apartments. No matter the size of my living space, I’ve learned:
When I own less, I clean less.
Owning less (one of my favorite spring cleaning ideas) makes daily chores – and spring cleaning – less stressful and easy for me. And, I still need to take care of my belongings and home. For me, ongoing care tasks include daily cleaning, decluttering, organizing, and making spring cleaning joyful.
The post Simple Spring Cleaning Ideas: 30 Tips and Resources appeared first on Be More with Less.
]]>So you’ve decided to book a trip to Paris this summer. That’s great – and you are in for a treat! With an abundance of incredible museums, famous cultural landmarks, great shopping opportunities, and some of the best food in the world, Paris is a bucket-list-worthy destination any time of year, and every adventurer should travel to it at least once in their lifetime.
As you may have heard, Parisians are a ‘special breed.’ French women and men alike are incredibly stylish, carefree, and chic without trying too hard, and they can be pretty difficult to impress. But with a bit of preparation, there is nothing you should worry about. With my help, discover tips and tricks on what to pack for a summer week in Paris.
white jeans / classic jeans / perfect t-shirt / cashmere t-shirt / tennis shoe / ballerina flat / black scarf / red scarf / green scarf / red scarf 2 / necklaces bundle / square earrings / pearl earrings / bracelet / sunnies / cashmere wrap / handbag / black dress / red dress / skirt / white blouse / black blouse / cardigan / camisole
The last few days before vacation can be stressful, and there is so much to take care of! Here are some essential things you shouldn’t forget before switching to holiday mode.
Even if you’re leaving your home for just a week, it is still important to prepare for your absence.
First, make sure to water any plants you own. It is a great idea to get a house sitter or neighbor to come every day to check on them. If that’s an option – leave them clear instructions.
Walk around the house, and check that windows, doors, gates, and exterior structures like a garden shed are locked. Install timers on the most used lights and set them to reflect your usual hours.
Unplug everything you can, such as computers, TV, etc., and consider closing the main water register to avoid floods while away.
Set a note to remove the trash and recycle, clear your fridge, and discard all leftovers before you leave for the airport. Remember to take care of your pantry too. You’d be surprised to know how awful rotten potatoes can smell!
Unless you’re planning on bringing your furry friends with you, you should find a suitable pet sitter. Leave clear instructions, emergency information, and your house rules for the sitter.
Go through your house and check whether anything dangerous isn’t left behind. Leave plenty of food and fresh water.
Before heading to Paris, call your alarm-security system company and give them the dates you’ll be on vacation.
The same goes for your credit card company. Let them know you will be using your card in another country and avoid the headache of finding yourself without access to money in the beautiful city.
If there’s one thing I learned not to leave home without is travel insurance. Even more so in the time we live with a pandemic and other events worldwide. Read the policy -not the most fun but needed- to understand what it’s covered in case you need it.
And since I am at it, include a first aid kit in your hand luggage too.
Make sure you have everything you need and get your Travel Planner. Use this link for an instant 20% OFF Have a relaxed and organized trip knowing you took care of everything!
Taking care of the practicalities at home isn’t the only thing you should do before heading on your trip to Paris.
We want this to be a fabulous vacation without nasty surprises or unpleasant situations. So, you must plan your trip, and this is what you should think about:
Summers in Paris can be hot. We’re seeing heat waves across Europe, and it isn’t uncommon to have 38-40°C days, turning what could be lovely summer weather into blazing hot days.
It’s not uncommon for restaurants and apartments (if you’re heading to an AirBnB) to not have air conditioning. Therefore, you should plan your outfits for these warmer days and bring breathable and lightweight clothes.
Check the weather forecast and plan your days in Paris accordingly. You can also expect rainstorms in the summertime, so having an umbrella or a rainjacket with you is a ‘must’ too.
Did you know that Paris has been awarded the title of the most visited city in the world for numerous years? It is true – the French capital is full of tourists. If you wish to stay away from crowds, careful planning is essential.
Unless you want to stand in long queues, purchasing tickets online for famous attractions before you leave your home is a good idea. This can be done for almost any must-see site in Paris like the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Musee d’Orsay, and more. Quite often, this is how you can also get a better price.
Avoid the extra cost of buying your tickets on the day of your visit and skip the lines with the Paris Museum Pass.
Use Google to find out the best time to visit each attraction. It will show a little graph of the busiest times of the day, and you can avoid the crowds.
It is no secret people in the US are much more laidback than Europeans. Among other European countries, French people are often considered the most formal. Politeness is an essential value in the Land of Eiffel.
For example, in the US, we are left alone by salespeople; when you enter a shop or any other public place, you should always greet someone with a ‘Bonjour.’ Otherwise, you will be perceived as rude.
Short shorts and tennis shoes might not cut in those excellent restaurants you want to try, so it’s a good choice to consider the Parisian dress code before packing your flip flops. Your little black dress and a nice pair of shoes might come in handy for your evening outings.
If there is one thing any Parisian will tell you is that driving a car in the city is a nightmare. The traffic is terrible, and parking is difficult, so most locals favor the metro or their legs.
You should prepare for a lot of walking, and the best way to enjoy your long travel days is to pack comfortable shoes.
Keep in mind that many streets of Paris have cobblestone, so although you may look fabulous in high heels, they will make you feel miserable on your visit to this gorgeous city.
Make sure you pack comfortable walking shoes to have a good time walking around Paris.
COMFORTABLE SHOES FOR PARIS
Fashion is a key element of culture and tradition in the French capital. If there is one place where you can let your inner fashionista shine, it is here. Luckily you don’t have to bring your closet with you to look your best.
I’m a firm believer in packing light, and with air traveling as stressful and chaotic as it is now, packing a single carry-on will keep you agile and adjust quickly to changes.
Another thing to consider is your time in the city. Navigating through the city’s cobblestone streets will be challenging with a giant suitcase, so I strongly recommend traveling with a carryon bag and a travel backpack.
When packing for Paris, take classic items that can be styled in multiple ways and make you feel comfortable, confident, and elegant.
Your life will be much easier if you stick to a particular color palette. For example, by sticking to neutral colors like black, white, beige, and navy, you’ll be able to mix and match without taking too many items. You can throw a pop of your favorite color on a pair of comfortable sandals or accessories.
Most importantly, have fun getting dressed!
Reusable Water Bottle – bottled water is expensive, and tap water is clean. Carrying your water bottles and refilling them throughout the day will save you lots of money. Pick one in a small size to minimize the weight.
Travel Adapter – France has different voltage and electrical outlets than the US, so it’s essential to use the correct power adapter to protect your electronics.
Fanny Packs – Crossbody Bag – make sure your Paris days go without headaches. Avoid taking large bags because you will have to empty them each time you enter a tourist place. Remember that Paris is full of pickpocketers. Keep your belongings close to you at all times.
Portable Charger – If you count on your phone for taking photos, the last thing you want is to run out of battery on those longer days. This one is small and lightweight. Perfect!
Umbrella – You may have rainy days as you can get rain showers even in the summer months. Pack a small umbrella or a foldable rain jacket.
The easiest way to plan how many items you should pack is to follow this “Bottoms x Tops Ratio” – Plan one bottom (pants, skirt, or shorts) for every three days; then plan two to three tops for each bottom, making sure they mix and match to maximize your options.
For a 7-day trip to Paris, I’ll bring 3 bottoms and 7 tops. I will wear one of the bottoms (the bulkiest one) and one of the tops plus the light jacket on the way in and out of my destination.
My evening outfits include the bottom pieces above and one or two summer dresses.
white jeans / classic jeans / perfect t-shirt / cashmere t-shirt / tennis shoe / ballerina flat / black scarf / red scarf / green scarf / red scarf 2 / necklaces bundle / square earrings / pearl earrings / bracelet / sunnies / cashmere wrap / handbag / black dress / red dress / skirt / white blouse / black blouse / cardigan / camisole
When it comes to shoes, I’m very practical: one feminine and nice-looking tennis shoe for the day and a pair of flats for the evening. Plus, I have flat feet that don’t go well with shoes without support. I’m glad that sneakers have become more fashionable, and we no longer need to look like we have run out of the gym.
I don’t fuss with my brands and stick to what I know works well for me. Nothing beats the comfort of the Minnie ballet flats from Tory Burch, and while they’re an investment, they also last forever if you take good care of them. They fold nicely and take no space in the suitcase, and the leather ones have excellent cushioning. They’re perfect for night outings.
The same goes for the brands I wear – mostly J.Crew, as they’re long-lasting, practical, and offer a classic look I tend to stick to.
95% of my clothes don’t require ironing, but if you have items that will wrinkle, double check if your hotel/Airbnb offers an iron; if not, plan to bring a hand steamer like this one. It’s excellent.
Paris is unlike any other place in the world. There is something magical about the city of lights. Perhaps it is the stunning architecture or the fascinating people – either way, there is no question why the French capital should be your next summer destination.
I hope this Paris packing list helps you make the most of your time in Paris!
New post How to Prepare And What to Pack For A Fabulous Week In Paris on A Personal Organizer .
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