5 Ways to Liven Up Your Laundry Room

Jan 22, 2016 | Homeowners

Whether your laundry area is part of a modern mudroom, or stuck in the dark recesses of your basement, it’s probably the messiest, most neglected part of your home. But its winter, and there’s no better time to pay a little attention to your overlooked utility rooms. Here are five great ways to help take your laundry room from disorganized to delightful:

1. Get organized

ikea-laundry-room

Image by: Maegan Tintari

If the laundry area is multipurpose, such as a mudroom or storage area, define the space for each use and organize shelving, baskets, or boxes for each. Install a closet rod for air drying or hanging up clothes as soon as they are done in the dryer, and use a fold-away table for folding and sorting clothes that can be stored away when not in use.

2. If it ain’t quaint, paint!

If your laundry room is dark and depressing, paint the walls a traditional light colour or add a fresh coat to the trim. If you have a window which lets in natural light, select a paint in sunshine yellow, or this year’s “in” colour: orange. Alternatively, choose blackboard paint for use on a section of a wall and when you run out of detergent or dryer sheets, just add it to your list on the blackboard.

3. Texturize and accessorize

Bamboo blinds and linen-lined rattan laundry hampers will help establish a softer, relaxed mood. Mirrors are a great way to make smaller space appear bigger while adding a touch of sophistication. And don’t forget, the laundry room is a great place for indoor plants, as they improve air quality and may absorb cleaning detergent scents.

4. Don’t be left in the dark

The laundry is likely the last place you’d spend a lot on a great-looking light fixture, but that doesn’t mean you have to go without! An elegant overhead light fixture adds a functional and decorative touch. Use a small chandelier with good light coverage for beauty or add a practical ceiling fan to circulate air while providing a little decorative interest.

5. Add your personality

Once you have your laundry room organized, don’t be afraid to decorate. Use colours that you love, put up family photos, kids artwork, your special collection of snow globes, anything that makes you smile.

Happy laundering!

Snow Safety Tips to Survive the Winter Weather

Jan 4, 2016 | Homeowners

OddHarmonic Shoveling Snow

Photo Credit: OddHarmonic

The snow and cold winter weather shouldn’t limit time enjoyed working on the home outdoors. Before venturing outside, ensure proper safety precautions are taken to avoid an accident or injury. Consider the following snow safety tips from The Home Depot Canada to help keep warm and safe all season long.

– Dress for outdoor success. Whether at work or play, bundle up in layered clothing to allow for better evaporation of perspiration. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent. Wear boots or overshoes with non-skid soles to avoid slips and falls.

– Master the right shoveling technique. Before shoveling the walkway or driveway, ensure you are physically able. Arm yourself with a quality shovel that will last the entire winter. Lift with your leg muscles, not your back and remember, pace yourself and take frequent breaks.

– Blow it away. If shoveling is not your fancy, consider using a snow blower to push the white stuff away. Maintaining the blower will enhance performance and increase longevity. Check areas such as the engine oil levels, blower system chute positioning and tire pressure on a regular basis.

– Light the way. Since visibility is reduced in snowy weather and the winter brings darkness earlier, make sure you have well-lit walkways around the outside of the home.

– Roof clearing. If you need to clear the roof, try using long-handled snow rakes or poles. Should you require a ladder, make certain that the base is securely anchored. Ask a friend, family member or neighbour to hold the ladder while you climb.

– Winter warm-up. After spending time outdoors, snuggle up with a loved one and drink warm beverages like hot chocolate, coffee, tea or soup.

For more snow safety tips, visit The Home Depot store in your community.

~ News Canada