I’m still walking everyday, but have moved it to the treadmill and my goal is to walk 10,000 steps a day. I’m on Day 4 today and already feeling good. I usually do 2- 30 minute sessions and only watch YouTube videos while I’m on the treadmill. It helps me look forward to it!
I must say, our Hello Fresh orders have been coming in extra handy this month! It’s especially helpful that my kids like to get in on the ordering and cooking so it’s a family affair. I was able to get a discount code to share with you – use MEGAN50 for 50% off your first HelloFresh order + FREE shipping! Order HERE.
We made Beef Tenderloin with Au Poivre sauce, maple sage sweet potatoes and lemony asparagus recently and it was SO GOOD! The baja cauliflower tacos were light and delicious too.
Today is one of my favorite posts of each month where I recap the previous month and share your favorites. I love getting to see what you love, and here’s what topped your list this month!
1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10 • 11
1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10
1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10
1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10
Tank Top • Skirt • Wedges • Crossbody
Loft Blazer • Camisole • Shorts • Wedges
Dress • Cuff Bracelet • Sandals
1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10
Dress • Sandals • Similar White/Wooden Handle Clutch
Dress • Bag • Similar Heels
1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10
Star Sweater • Jeans • Sandals • Bracelets • Earrings • Necklace
One Shoulder Top • Jeans • Sandals • Bracelets • Earrings • Necklace • Clutch
Top • Shorts • Sandals • Bracelets • Earrings • Necklace • Chair
1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10 • 11 • 12 • 13 • 14
Bandeaux Top • NYDJ Jeans • Woven Bag • White Bracelets
Top • Shorts • White Bracelets • Woven Clutch • Braided Sandals
Top • Jean Skirt • Clear Wedges • White Bracelets • Woven Bag
Top • Skirt • Clear Heels • White Bracelets • Coin Necklace
Dress • Strappy Heels • Orange Bag • Coin Necklace • Gold Bangles
Top • NYDJ Jeans • Heels • Ruched Bag • White Bracelets
Top • NYDJ Jeans • Heels • Ruched Bag • White Bracelets
Top • Shorts • Clear Wedges • Clutch • White Bracelets
Top • Jean Shorts • Pearl Sandals • Woven Bag • White Bracelets
Top • Jeans • Wedges • White Bracelets
1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10 • 11 • 12 • 13 • 14 • 15 • 16
Couch • Amazon Ottoman • Similar Rug • Tray • Striped Pillow • Plaid Pillow
Visor • CoverUp • Swimsuit • Sunglasses
Yeti Backpack • Calpak • Suitcase
1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10 • 11 • 12 • 13 • 14
1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10 • 11 • 12 • 13
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1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10 • 11 • 12 • 13 • 14 • 15 • 16 • 17 • 18
Sharing Goodies on stories on Tuesdays is one of your faves, and mine too!
Romper • Necklace • Purse • Feeders • Slippers
Plant Water Monitor • Thermal Phone Case • Phone Case w Ring & Stand • Rolling Dog Food Storage • Lap Desk
Super Flattering Swimsuit • Tower Fan • Handheld Fan & Flashlight • Visor • Rattan Bag • Sunscreen SPF 46
Cover Up • White Bracelets • Color Bracelets • SPF Bag • Beach Bag • Puzzle
Congratulations to Loves WINNER – Mary From San Jose, California – I grew up there!
Beats Headphones • Toiletry Bags • Amazon Cover Up • Swimsuit • Calpack Travel Tote
Ruffle Knit Top | Was $59, Now $47
Strappy Sandals | Was $65, Now $39
Scalloped Sweater Tank | 40% off with code USA
Striped Shorts | Was $49, Now $19
Maxi Dress | 30% off taken at checkout
Have a fantastic weekend friend!
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Those who don’t regularly snoop around the Serena & Lily sale section might not be aware that the designer-beloved home destination is routinely packed with deals on premium wares. Domino staffers and S&L fans can agree that the site is, seemingly, always running some sort of promo—meaning you rarely need to pay full price for anything on offer. However, there are rare occasions where the retailer runs even steeper savings events where double discounts and free-shipping perks come into play. Case in point: Serena & Lily’s Summer Tent Sale, where shoppers can score an extra 15% off the entire clearance section, plus free shipping, using the code BONUS.
After devoting a considerable chunk of our time to sifting through the 400-plus coastal grandmother–style scores, we clocked compelling markdowns on the good stuff: striped pillow covers with ruffled trim, tiered rattan bar carts, oversize cotton beach blankets with chic carrying straps, linen napkin sets, and so on. Check out our full list of favorites, below.
If we had to pick the perfect summer quilt, this European linen number featuring nautical stripes and a ruffled edge would be a top contender. We love the diamond-stitched design, yarn-dyed colors (though we’re partial to the goes-with-anything gray), and the fact that it’s specially washed for an instantly soft feel.
An artfully hand-caned and white wood coffee table with gleaming brass accents. We’re particularly fond of its multi-storage capabilities, featuring two elevated drawers and a bottom shelf.
An easy way to propel your sofa from winter to summer: Top it with a few of these yarn-dyed cotton beauties featuring a subtle striped pattern and charming ruffled trim.
The traditional curved back of a Windsor-style silhouette is modernized in this S&L bench with a matte black stain. Toss some colorful cushions on top to up the comfort factor, or let the hand-caned seat add a touch of textural warmth to your space.
Brighten up your outdoor space with a large-scale lantern crafted from cross-bound bamboo with a brass-accented handle.
As far as neutral rugs go, this S&L style takes the cake. It features a subtle yet elevated contrasting stripe pattern woven from a blend of undyed New Zealand wool, cotton, and natural nettle fiber.
Both a sophisticated drink tray and coffee-table catchall, this hand-bent rattan tray featuring a cane base and indigo blue accents can do it all.
Whether you put this weather-resistant resin coffee table to use inside or out, its basket-weave-style design in a soft fog white hue will add a touch of understated elegance to your space.
You’re bound to evoke alfresco vibes setting the table with these 100% premium Belgian linen napkins—especially if you opt for the rich ochre colorway we selected (above).
We never met a gingham-patterned seat we didn’t like. Serena & Lily’s chair puts the pattern front and center. The retro sling style is complemented by a weather-resistant teakwood frame that’s lightweight enough to tote around—and chic enough that you’ll want to.
This under-$100 handwoven runner pairs chic fringed detailing and a gingham print with durable performance materials.
Chunky, handwoven seagrass gives this simple seat a textural punch. And since the comfy cushion is covered with performance fabric, you can place it around a dining room table without having to worry about spills and stains.
The best outdoor furniture is worth investing in if you want pieces that are actually built to last—and Serena & Lily is a brand that knows how to weather the elements in style. This substantial daybed—aside from being the perfect mix of dramatic elegance—features a sturdy aluminum frame that’s covered in hand-wrapped resin and outfitted with a plush performance-fabric mattress.
Open-weave rattan hand-fastened in a tapered pendant design, the Santa Barbara hanging shade is late summer incarnate. Suspend it above a dining table or cluster several over a lounge area for a textural glow.
A seasonally transitional tablecloth woven from 100% premium Belgian linen. While this timeless style comes in Capri blue and ochre-bordered options, we’re partial to the grove green (above).
The post Even the Sale Is on Sale at Serena & Lily This Week appeared first on domino.
]]>Otterbox is best known for its sturdy smartphone cases, but the brand also makes an assortment of mugs, coolers, and accessories built for camping. Three new softshell coolers launch this week, including this 24-can carrying shoulder sling tote ($90).
Several brands make a similar tote cooler, and Otterbox certainly didn’t invent the design. With a narrow base and immense portability, tote coolers carry easily and fit almost everywhere. From road trips to festivals, this insulated bag can haul lunch and beverages for the whole squad.
According to the brand, the tote can keep ice frozen for up to 2 days, provided the cooler is prechilled and free of large air pockets. The main opening seals with a water-resistant zipper, and a series of external pockets add extra storage and organization.
The late Clive Cussler is best known for lining the shelves of airport bookstores with his best-selling techno-thrillers. When Cussler wasn’t busy cranking out novels like hotcakes, he was also a prolific marine explorer.
In honor of Cussler and his deep sea side quests, DOXA drops a special edition of the Sub 300T ($2,690), an adventurous timepiece that evokes a vintage compass. Its rotating bezel and helium release valve are made for calculating and monitoring no-decompression dive time.
According to the brand, this watch is “a symbol of discovery and a reminder of the mysteries that lie beneath the waves.” It’s just the sort of watch that would be worn by Dirk Pitt, Cussler’s tequila-swilling heartthrob protagonist.
Frequent travelers pride themselves on their ability to pack light. For those who shun expensive hard-shell luggage with built-in locks and battery packs, Matador’s new ReFraction Duffel ($50) provides pure affordable utility. It touts 25 L of storage — plenty of space for a short business or leisure trip — and weighs less than half a pound.
To keep weight and bulk to a minimum, the ReFraction Duffel is free of flashy features and general excess. A single hardy zipper keeps the main compartment sealed. It comes with dual carry handles and a no-frills shoulder sling. When empty, it easily compresses into its own pocket, like all of Matador’s ultra-packable products.
Next time you ask for a friend to bring you some whiskey glasses, you may need to be more specific. The most peculiar collaboration of summer 2023 to date, WhistlePig Whiskey teams up with Pit Viper to drop a limited edition line of sunnies and swigs ($150 for the set).
According to WhistlePig, this SummerStock whiskey is light, smooth, and easy to sip. A blend of rye and wheat whiskey, this spirit “was finished in toasted barrels” and can be enjoyed “on the rocks or sipped straight.” If you have one too many and forget about the dangers of staring into the sun, your in situ Pit Vipers will keep you safe.
This limited edition product duo celebrates WhistlePig Farm and Distillery achieving “100% solar power” in 2023. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Everybody Solar, an organization striving to “protect the environment and strengthen communities by bringing solar energy to nonprofits.”
Born and raised on Oahu’s North Shore, Mason Ho’s family is packed with more pro surfers than the Padrol Longboard Classic. This summer, Ho joins up with REEF for a fresh line of pro-model sandals and shoes. The pictured Water Coast ($65) — with its moccasin-style construction and porous upper — immediately caught our eye. This shoe has been in REEF’s lineup for a while, but Ho’s version adds a deep purple color and a subtle coral print.
According to REEF, the Water Coast is made from “water-friendly” EVA with mesh lining and built-in arch support.
Gator-proof? We’ll see what the Everglades has to say about that. In all seriousness, I’d love to test this claim, though seeing as though BOTE is based in South Florida, they likely already have.
Its latest Kula Cooler ($270) is this hefty, “adventure-ready” 10-gallon, complete with rotomolded plastic construction, a bottle opener, sticky rubber feet, a carry handle, and magnetic attachment points for compatible accessories, as well as an optional ice pack, storage basket, and cooler cutting board.
It’s the largest cooler BOTE now makes at a whopping 23 pounds empty, so it’s better for use on its bigger vessels like kayaks and inflatable pedal drive boats, as well as motorized boats. Tough as nails, BOTE says, the KULA 10 “was designed to withstand all adventures” — gators included.
Plastic wrap may preserve your sandwich, but the world around your sandwich prefers you use a recyclable alternative. The sticky transparent “Saran” wrap that’s commonly sold in rolls was invented by accident as a byproduct in a 1930s laboratory. Now, it’s a ubiquitous kitchen staple that sits just next to the tin foil. It’s convenient to use, and a total menace to the environment.
Bee’s Wrap is made from organic cotton, plant oil, tree resin, and beeswax. It’s 100% free of plastic and silicone, and it’s perfectly suitable for storing all sorts of snacks. Plus, it’s endlessly reusable, so it’ll likely save you money in the long run.
The brand’s wraps come in various shapes and sizes, from rolls ($25) to pre-cut sandwich holders ($15). Various fun prints are available too, including the all-new Great Outdoors print (pictured). And 1% of sales support the Plastic-Free Parks Initiative.
Astral is a leading manufacturer of whitewater personal flotation devices (PFDs). For 14 years running, the brand has released a series of limited-edition PFDs in collaboration with professional kayakers and artists. This year’s “Wild Things” iteration features whimsical artwork by surfer Bret Brown in collaboration with pro kayaker Nouria Newman. In the chest area, a playfully rendered group of frightful cartoons conveys themes of “dreaming, overcoming fear, and committing to adventure.”
As for the tech specs, the Wild Things shares its architecture with the bestselling Green Jacket LE, an advanced PFD preferred by many of the world’s strongest paddlers. And 5% of online sales from the Wild Things jacket will benefit Tri-Haut pour l’Everest, a sustainability project working to reduce the amount of plastics and waste that enter the soil and water of the Himalayas.
Hip waders offer excellent protection, but they’re quite an inconvenience to put on and take off. Hunters and anglers frequently walk through deep mud and shallow streams, so reliable waterproofing is necessary. Chêne Gear’s new Slough Boots ($300) extend well above the knee for extra-high waterproofing — without the heat-trapping hassle of waders.
At maximum height, these thigh-high boots can keep your legs dry while roaming through creeks and streams. The molded rubber outsole is thick and cut-resistant, and the wader material sports a universal camo print. To keep from sagging, both waders have an elastic band that clips directly to a belt loop. When not in use, the wader material folds down and out of the way.
This flowy new summertime dress is a far cry from Patagonia’s typical garb — puffy jackets and expeditionary onesies. Woven from wood-pulp-derived Tencel fabric and stylized with Hawain canoe plants, the Patahola dress ($129) is made for strolling along the beach.
Clearly, the selling point of this dress is its eye-catching print. Hawaiian Canoe Plants are 24 original species that Polynesian voyagers brought to Hawaii upon settling in the islands between 300 and 600 CE. These gorgeous, big-leafed species are a staple of traditional Hawaiian cuisine and the islands’ cultural history.
It’s an apt print for a dress that would fit right in on the shores of Hanalei Bay. The entire Patahola collection includes more prints (seven, to be exact) that pay homage to the Polynesian Hōkūleʻa wayfinders and the constellations — and include men’s, women’s, kids, and baby offerings.
The post Pit Viper Whiskey, ‘Gator-Proof’ Cooler, and More Emerging Gear appeared first on GearJunkie.
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If you’ve ever found yourself rummaging through a mountain of mismatched food storage containers, you’ll agree that Tupperware sets are like the socks of a kitchen. You somehow always have too many, and yet never any perfect pairs. And instead of going MIA in the dryer, they disappear into the depths of your corner cabinets. We’re happy to let you know that your days spent searching for elusive plastic lids are over. Here, pro organizers and interior designers share their best Tupperware storage ideas to manage the mayhem for good.
Nothing beats the satisfaction of having four or five separate sets neatly stacked inside of each other in size order. You keep your cupboards looking decluttered without having to compromise on the amount of Tupperware you have. —Laura Price, founder, The Home Organisation
Since these are typically everyday items, we recommend storing them in easy-to-access lower cabinets. There’s nothing worse than having to rifle overhead for what you need or risk a waterfall of containers falling on your head. If you’re storing in a drawer, use little boxes or drawer dividers to separate your lids and bases. If you’re using shelves, consider installing a glider insert so you don’t have to dig in the back. —Jennifer Verruto, founder and CEO, Blythe Interiors
The golden rule of storing Tupperware is to never put a container back in the cupboard without a top on it. It’s nature’s great mystery as to how they manage to lose their lids, but they do. A lot. Store them as a complete set so you never have to worry about mismatched pieces clogging up your cupboards. —Laura Price
One of the easiest ways to keep containers organized is to store them stacked in a drawer or cabinet with the lids on, but if you don’t have the room to stack, nest the containers inside one another, and line up the corresponding lids right next to the bottoms. If you’re really tight on space, I recommend getting a nesting set with lids like this. —Amy Berryhill, founder, Spiffy Chicks
Store smaller pieces, particularly sauce and dressing containers, in a small basket at the front [of the cabinet]. This way you never run the risk of losing the little ones in the abyss of the cupboard. —Laura Price
Inevitably, a lid will get separated from its bottom, but that doesn’t mean you have to toss it! Tupperware bases become great bath toys, craft storage, or under-the-counter toiletry organizers. One of our favorite uses for extra lids is as furniture movers. Place them underneath the leg of something that needs to be moved to prevent the legs from scratching your floors. —Jennifer Verruto
The post 6 Clever Tupperware Storage Ideas to Keep Your Cabinets in Check appeared first on domino.
]]>Crispy egg rolls that aren’t deep-fried in oil? Get out of my dreams, get into my mouth! These homemade Air Fryer Egg Rolls have a gratifyingly crispy exterior, which gives way to a meaty, veggie-packed filling. I already want seconds!
If you want to make gluten-free homemade egg rolls, you’ll likely need to special order the egg roll wrappers online (or make your own), as they’re difficult to find in stores. Then, swap the soy sauce for tamari.
If you happen to have cabbage on hand, you can use that instead. It’s easiest to use your food processor to shred it.
You can make the egg roll filling up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble your egg rolls.
Egg rolls in an air fryer are definitely lighter and healthier, but answering which is better comes down to your preferences. I prefer air fryer egg rolls because they’re less greasy and don’t have that oily taste to them, but they’re still nice and crispy.
The best way to keep egg rolls warm and crispy is to place them in a 225 degree F oven after you’ve finished air frying them uncovered. Trying to cover egg rolls with foil to keep them warm will steam them and make them soggy.
Air fryer egg rolls are done when they are crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on them while they’re cooking to make sure that they don’t get too dark; they should take around 10 minutes.
The air fryer is a game-changer when it comes to healthy weeknight dinners! Here are some of my favorite air fryer recipes:
Vendor: Lorena Canals
Type: Storage Baskets
Price:
84.95
Shaped as a sea turtle, the Lorena Canals Mama Turtle basket is handcrafted using braided cords made of fibres from recycled PET-bottles mixed with cotton. The bottom part of the basket, featuring the body of the turtle, is made in olive green cord, with puffy feet and a shaped head in olive cotton canvas. On top, a lid of mixed colour cord forms the shell of the turtle.
Dimensions: 18 x 45 x 70cm
Material: 50% cotton, 50% recycled PET
Care: hand wash only
Delivery: please allow 3-4 weeks for delivery
SEE THE FULL RANGE FROM LORENA CANALS
SEE OUR FULL RANGE OF TOY STORAGE
SEE OUR FULL RANGE OF OCEAN THEMED DECOR
Also, Friday’s Amazon Summer in Color post malfunctioned and several links were wrong when the post went live. They are all corrected now, thank you for letting me know about the issue!
Creating as stylish and inviting home doesn’t have to break the bank. Thanks to the huge selection of affordable and on trend home decor items available on Amazon, you can transform your living space without draining your wallet.
My own home is styled with several items from Amazon. In this post, I’ll take you room by room and share the budget friendly Amazon home decor finds that add warmth, personality and style to your own home.
In the photos below, I’ve tried to link everything you see, even if it’s not Amazon. If you have any questions, feel free to leave it in the comment section and I’ll be sure to respond.
Couch • Amazon Ottoman • Similar Rug • Tray • Striped Pillow • Plaid Pillow
Console Table • Vase • Cherry Blossoms • Bowls • Similar Basket • Stoneware Bowls • Candle Holders • Similar Basket • Similar Dough Bowl • Beads
Bar Stools • Amber Soap Bottles • Tray • Olive Tree
Top Shelf : Bowl
Middle Shelf: Potted Plant • Black Vase • Candle
Bottom Shelf: Marble Pedestal Bowl • Black Beads • Similar Mini Potted Plant • Candle • Faux Tulips • Rattan Vase • Bunny Cake Stand
Counter: Black Vase • Pot • Plant • Faux Artichokes • Large Black Bowl
Candle • Faux Tulips • Rattan Vase • Bunny Cake Stand
Bed • Lamps • Bedding • Lumbar Pillow • Bench
Vase • Cherry Blossom • Boxes • Mirror • Console
Drapes • Drapery Rod • Rings • Rug
Cardigan • Tank • Jeans • Watch • Amazon Rug
pink upholstered ottoman • standing vanity mirror • large gold mirror
Tall Stool • Vintage Stool • Basket • Similar Scrub Brush • Sisal Brush • Bath Bubbles • Artwork
Double Towel Rack • Towels • Wall Art
1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10 • 11 • 12 • 13
1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10 • 11 • 12
1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10 • 11 • 12
Now let’s go kick Monday’s booty!
The post Affordable & Stylish Amazon Decor in My Home appeared first on Honey We're Home.
]]>One of the first things I noticed when this trend started to explode on social media was the abundance of mushroom lamps. Most of them were gold/brass but some were glass, ceramic or wicker. There are also a lot of DIY lamps and dupes. This lamp shape is definitely a popular choice right now!
This wicker mushroom lamp would look perfect in a boho space or a sweet woodland themed nursery. I bet it makes a wonderful pattern on the walls when it is lit up!
How sweet are these mushroom vases? Whether you filled them with greenery or wildflowers, these would look great in any space.
I have seen so many cute examples of mushroom hooks. I think these brass ones are my favorite.
I am obsessed with glass cloches and I want to make some clay mushrooms and put them under one like this. I think I found my next DIY project....
This Storage basket is the perfect touch to a playroom or child's bedroom! The top comes off and there's plenty of storage inside.
I have some stumps in my backyard that are screaming to be turned into some mushroom stools! Or a little side table. Aren't these so sweet? You could even stain the top a bit darker or paint on dots.
I would happily add them to my living room but I love seeing these stools in a craft room too! Such a whimsical, creative touch!
Oh my goodness I found so many mushroom art prints! I could do a whole post on just my favorite prints. If you are looking for inexpensive, nature inspired art, consider a vintage style mushroom print!
These would look great in a kitchen or a study.
As a gardener and all around nature lover, I am drawn to these wallpaper choices. They kind of remind me of my bathroom wallpaper.
The darker version is more dramatic and I think it would look great as a back of a bookshelf or a little nook.
If you have a child's room that is woodland themed, I can't imagine cuter pillows for that space! The texture of these pillows would be so cozy!
aI love the vintage vibes these sweet mushroom pillows have.
Look, there are A LOT of places to buy home decor, especially on the internet. We even made a HUGE list a couple of years ago. Yet still there are countless times I’m reminded of a really great brand or site that maybe I sourced from a while back but then lost track of because there are new options coming at me every day. Can anyone relate?? So as Caitlin and I were talking, we thought it would be really helpful (we hope) to have a nice quick list of our solid go-to’s that we think should get more attention and others that are just under the radar. Decorating is both fun and yet can feel like an endless journey in search of what we hope will be our holy grail vase, or lamp, or sculptural object. Maybe these stores will be your answer! Or simply might be a great place to poke around and see some great options for the future. Let’s dig in with a strong first option:
photos by sara ligorria-tramp | left from: mountain house living room reveal | right: jess’ living room reveal
I’m sure you’ve seen countless photos of rooms with chic Scandinavian decor (and furniture) all over social media! Well, chances are the Finnish Design Shop carries those pieces. EHD favorite brands like ferm Living (see that little blue jar on the right?) and Skagerak (see that pretty blonde wood tray on the left?) are carried here…so you can only imagine what else they must stock. It’s truly a one-stop shop for all things cool and Scandi. Plus unbeknownst to me, they are currently having a sale in case you are interested! But first, let’s take a look at some of the decor pieces I pulled.
La Femme 02 Poster | Kandili Candle Holder C | Beetle Cushion
Happiness Globe Candle | Isak Throw | Pillar Candle, L
Man, this whole site makes me happy so choosing only six pieces wasn’t easy. I love that graphic yet slightly colorful print. I think it could work in so many homes. That round cushion pattern is SO GOOD! Then all of the candle options are truly so unique. You could easily spend hours on this site with its extensive inventory. Enjoy and sorry if you also fall in love:)
photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: 4 ways to style that credenza for “real life”
Ok, so I know people know about H&M (understatement??) but I am constantly shocked by their incredible home section. If you want pretty and super-affordable decor, you aren’t going to get much better than this. We are, of course, lifelong Target fans but H&M is seriously giving them a run for their money. Those candlestick holders are vintage H&M home but look how cute they are!?
via h&m
They are giving a West Elm/CB2 vibe that I am very into. I’ve ordered a couple of vessels from them and Christmas ornaments but I’ll probably be getting more since I’m getting super close to revealing my living room (so I sound like a broken record? I promise I’m still waiting on a custom piece!). But seriously look at this selection below:
Wine Glasses | Stoneware Vase | Checkered Storage Box
Patterned Cushion Cover | Large Glass Vase | Decorative Stoneware Bowl
Chic, right?!? I would happily have every one of these items in my home. Their prices are unbeatable and the style is cool without feeling like you’re trying to design “too young”. 10000/10.
Ah, the unexpected wildcard! Much like H&M you don’t automatically think “good decor” when you hear the name Nordstrom. But let me tell you there are great pieces at great prices if you are down to search a little. Hey, even Nordstrom Rack has some goodies. But let’s take a look at some of their offerings, shall we?
Circles Door Mat | Wavy Stone Candelabra | Pacino Abstract Statue
Flip Top Glass Vase | Tatum Ceramic Tic Tac Toe Game | Stoneware Face Vase
These are pretty cool, right? They, of course, have plenty of more traditional items but I wanted to show you some “fun” options. How cool is that candelabra or that two-toned vase? Oh, and I am super into that awesome tic-tac-toe set. Go check out what’s on the site!
photo by kaitlin green | from: the farmhouse back patio reveal
Ballard has a very special place in my heart. I’ll never forget seeing a Ballard Designs catalog on our counter when I was little and completely falling in love with these white and black fabric-trimmed lampshades. I thought, “I’m going to own those one day!” Unfortunately, I waited too long and honestly don’t think they are my style anymore. It’s crazy how 25 years can do that:) But honestly, they have so many truly great pieces that are traditional in the best way. I mean look at Em’s dining set from her back patio reveal!
photos by sara ligorria-tramp | from: cailtin’s balcony reveal
Caitlin is also a big fan and got their outdoor curtain for her balcony reveal! But they have way more than just outdoor items (which they are currently having a sale on) so let’s look at the interior products I spotted.
Leather Back Cushion | Gallery Wall System | Samson Candleholder
Mims Firewood Holder | Fringed Signature Velvet Pillow Cover | Eleanor Vase
See?! Traditional and modern all at the same time. I mean that leather back cushion is beautiful (and on sale), that gallery wall system is so pretty and takes away the frustration of trying to DIY something similar, I love that oversized firewood holder, and well everything else. Basically, DON’T SLEEP ON BALLARD DESIGNS!
photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: emily bowser’s kitchen reveal
Ok so we haven’t forgotten about one of our absolute favorite retailers, Jayson Home, but we definitely want to make sure everyone knows about them and thinks about them every time they are decorating their house or needs a gift. They are another one-stop shop! Emily and the team have used them for years (remember Em’s vintage chaise lounge?? Yes, they have vintage too!). Also, see that very cool vase ontop of the dresser in the photo above? Ya, they carry that too:)
photos by sara ligorria-tramp | from: the feel-good modern romantic bedroom makeover
I actually reached out to them for my friend’s bedroom because their products are so so good and there were so many things both my friend and I wanted for the room. We didn’t want to be greedy so we asked for that sweet glass matchstick cloche (I have the tall one and it’s stunning), that paper mache shell tray, and two of their alphabet vintage brass coasters with each of their initials. They really were the perfect unique touches this room was asking for. But let’s check out some of their other pieces (which doesn’t even scratch the surface!)
Hermosa Vases | Rift Wall Shelves | Talisman Stones
Bristol Serving Trays | Peele Candlestick | Baxter End Table
See?! Everything is hand curated and you can tell. I love everything. How cute would love rattan shelves be in a vintage-style home?? Or those beautifully wrapped rocks as an extremely cool gift? I would happily have one of those in my home. What I also love about Jayson Home is that they have a wide selection but not so wide that you are too overwhelmed. This is a must-bookmark.
photos by sara ligorria-tramp | left from: a mid-century eclectic living room | right: my updated living room
Ah, another incredible shop that’s definitely a luxury brand, helping to preserve Africa’s artisanal heritage. 54Kibo offers stunning pieces that will bring so much depth and beauty to your home. Look at the examples above! Julie used one of their wall mirrors in an MCM eclectic living room she designed and it’s so cool! Then in Emily’s old LA living room, that black drink table is a show stopper. The angles and cutouts make it such a unique piece that brought more dimension into the room. Let’s see some other pieces, ya?
Wall Mirror | Ethiopian Navy Throw Blanket | Binga Decorative Woven Wall Basket
Blue Dusk Nala Pom Pom | Nayali Stretch Yellow Throw Pillow | Naka Beaded Turquoise Artwork Mirror
See how textured and joyful everything is?? And that turquoise mirror is all BEADED! This is truly a special shop that we suggest you check out frequently:)
When you hear the online shop Lumens you think of lighting, right? Well, you aren’t wrong but you are also missing out on so much more! Now, Lumens does sell incredible lighting with a lot of intention behind them. Remember my Paris post and that incredible department store I went into with all the lights I loved? Well, they sell ALL of them! BUT, they also sell furniture and decor! Say it with me – a real one-stop shop. Most everything leans pretty modern but don’t run if “modern” isn’t your style! They have so much and a little style contrast makes for interesting homes if we do say so ourselves. Enjoy!
Miyabi Ceramic Vase | BORDA Oak Tray | Natural Mahogany Organic Sculpture
WILO Round Hardwood Wastepaper Basket | Black Urban House Mahogany Object | Retro Bullet Planter
Classic, modern, and cool! I love the wooden sculptures and the simple but stunning other pieces. So many good options if you want to pop on over:)
photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: sara’s living and dining room reveal
If you’ve been with us for a while then you’ve likely heard of Bloomist. They are a beautiful online shop that sells pretty plants and decor pieces. Like really pretty decor pieces. They did go out of business for a hot second but are back and boy are we happy about it! It’s a very organic natural style with a little bit of edge at times which I love. Come see:
Japanese Maple Kokedama | Forst Candle | Stoneware Bottle Vase
Stacking Sculpture Set | Amish Peg Rail | Jikoku Shell Pot With Pale Wood Base
Right? I could look at their site all day because it’s so calming and hopefully you can see that from these photos. That black candle is actually a 2-for-1! When the scented candle burns out, you can then flip it over and place a taper candle in it. What a genius way to get a life-long use out of something. Then that shell pot with a wood base is so unbelievably beautiful it almost hurts. You just have to go to the site and see it all!
We hope Burke Decor is on your radar and if it isn’t, it should be. They really have EVERYTHING. Since this post is all about decor (and not things like furniture) we’ll focus on that. But if you do want interesting, beautiful furniture you should take a look. They give you options! However, look how cute this decor is…
Small Mus Plant Pot | Blue & Ivory Resin Photo Frame | Gullfoss Tray
Handmade Stoneware Basket Dish | Booknd Set | Serveur Bowl
A little modern, a little contemporary, a little natural. See? Everything! If you’ve never checked them out it’s a definite must:)
Ok! That’s it for today. Hope it was helpful and you were either reminded of or introduced to a new brand (or both!). Have a great Friday and we’ll see you all tomorrow.
Love you, mean it.
Opening Image Credits: Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: Sara’s Living and Dining Room Reveal
The post 9 Stores You Might Forget To Check Out To Find Awesome Decor (And You Shouldn’t!) appeared first on Emily Henderson.
]]>In the living room, the eye is drawn magnetically to a flamboyant red faux fur couch. It’s not your average sofa, but it communicates a deep and welcoming comfort and is incredibly fun. See more inspiration for a red couch living room.
The modern sofa is given space to shine by removing any unnecessary furniture from the peripheral. There are no end tables here and the coffee table has an understated clean, white finish. A tall, built-in cabinet with curved corners keeps clutter at bay. A small shelf extends through it and onward behind the sofa, creating a handy yet almost undetectable ledge.
The modern coffee table is cut with a visually interesting asymmetrical shape. Its stark black base pours out from underneath it like molten rock, flowing darkly across the pale area rug.
A piece of quirky wall art complements the unusual sofa with an equally intriguing subject and rosy color palette.
The living room stands open to a hallway and the kitchen diner, creating a spacious and airy feel.
The curved decor motif is not unique to this home interior, but it is conveyed in a bold and exciting way. A deeply rounded arch curls around a covered balcony area, making a dramatic frame around the city view. A curved TV mount forms a perfect, fluid link from the arched balcony frame to the main focal wall.
A white and fluffy faux fur lounge chair makes a wild contradiction to the hard concrete city that looms outside the apartment window. It stands alone as a single reading chair, bathed in natural light from the huge window.
The TV screen is set inside the curved mount to achieve a streamlined look. A bespoke media console unit fits into the piece with a perfectly rounded corner. The curves in the room are complemented by a unique acrylic table lamp, which finds an unusual home on the coffee table.
The sleek white kitchen installation takes a backseat to the quirkier elements of the living room sitting area. However, a curvaceous kitchen peninsula does strike a bold outline with a smoothly molded dining table extension. Recessed ceiling lighting extends the rounded theme with a precisely curved track.
Above the rounded dining peninsula, a linear suspension light features an elegantly curved shade.
In the master bedroom, a black upholstered bed makes a striking contradiction to the light and creamy wall decor.
Unique bedroom pendant lights fall at each side of the headboard, giving out focussed reading light.
A vertical light strip burns within the headboard wall, where it threads behind an unusual nightstand with an acrylic top.
On the opposite side of the bed, a floating nightstand is tailored around the shallow alcove.
Black pillows and a matching black bed runner make bold contrast with a basic beige bed set.
Fitted wardrobes line the wall at the foot of the bed. Leather handle pulls punctuate their warm white finish.
A display shelf is included at the window end of the wardrobe installation, where it forms a brief decorative moment and a stripe of warm natural wood tone. A flower vase is showcased inside the niche, illuminated by a recessed spotlight.
The bedroom is split into two areas: The sleeping zone and clothes storage space are combined at one side, while an open-plan vanity area occupies the other. A change in flooring defines the zoning and a cantilevered bathroom vanity unit builds a brief physical barrier.
The vanity unit draws around the ensuite in an L-shape, making plenty of space underneath it for a wicker laundry basket. See more ideas for unique laundry baskets.
A black vanity mirror is anchored between the countertop and ceiling. Its placement emphasizes the room division.
Concrete blocks and mood lighting build a feature wall that brightly marks the transition between the sleep space and the ensuite vanity area. A decorative vase brings in a splash of nature and a flash of red.
At the back of the room, there is a custom makeup table and a uniquely sculptural vanity chair.
The kid’s room is brightened with fun wall prints and bright perimeter lighting. The LED strips crisply highlight an attractive, pitched ceiling.
A custom-made bed and desk are amalgamated into one piece. The wood-effect headboard runs the full width of the room, forming a solid backdrop behind the child’s workspace.
The bespoke desk ends in a deep curve, leaving no sharp edges beside the kid’s bed. A shelving tower is built into the end of the wardrobe run, where it provides convenient storage beside the desk. LED strips line the bookshelves and the top of the headboard to fashion a soft and restful lighting scheme.
Recommended Reading: Creative Apartment Interior With Unique Decor Style
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]]>You’ve probably already heard of air fryer fries, but today we’re introducing you to air fryer zucchini fries! A lighter version of everyone’s go-to air fryer recipe, they’re coated with a gluten-free panko and “fried” to perfection. The end result is skinny fries that are so delicious you’d never guess they’re actually good for you. Even better, your little ones won’t even realize they’re eating their vegetables! Especially if you pair them with a side of homemade ranch or ketchup. One bite, and they’ll become your new favorite way to eat your veggies.
We love to make these zucchini fries during the summer months when we have zucchini in abundance, but they’re great all year long! Here’s what you need:
Although considered a vegetable (we even referred to it as one), zucchini are scientifically classified as fruit. However, no matter what they are, they’re loaded with vitamins and nutrients! For example, they’re an excellent source of vitamin A, manganese, vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin K. In addition, they contain small amounts of fiber.
As a result, consuming zucchini as part of a well-balanced diet may help:
One of the best things about air fryer recipes is how easy they are to make, and this air fryer zucchini recipe is no exception!
Follow the steps below, and they’re ready in minutes with minimal prep time.
1. Prepare the Zucchini. Trim the ends of each zucchini, and cut them in half into sticks. Sprinkle salt over them, and sweet them aside to “sweat” and release their excess moisture. Pat the strips down with a paper towel, and set them aside to continue to dry.
Pro-Tip: To remove even more moisture from the zucchini and ensure it gets crisp, place the sliced veggie on a foil or parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake them at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes. Or, pop them in a preheated air fryer for 2 minutes. Then, proceed with the dredging process as normal.
2. Make a Dredging Station. In a shallow wide bowl, whisk together the Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), flax meal, almond flour, and seasonings. In a second bowl, whisk the egg until smooth.
3. Bread the Zucchini. Dip the zucchini strips into the whisked egg followed by the flax meal panko mixture.
Pro-Tip: Use one hand for dredging in the wet mix (egg) and the other for coating the fries with the flax mixture. Then, use tongs to place them on a baking sheet or the air fryer. This helps prevent a soggy mess!
4. Air Fry. Arrange the coated zucchini in a single layer in a greased, preheated air fryer basket. Spray the zucchini with olive oil spray or avocado oil spray, and air fry until they’re golden and crispy.
5. Enjoy! Carefully remove the fries with tongs, and continue to cook in batches as needed. Then, dig in while they’re still warm!
No air fryer? No problem! We’ve got you covered with a baked option, too.
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Trim and slice the zucchini as instructed above.
3. Dredge them in the breading and egg wash, and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Spray the zucchini fries with oil spray, and bake until they’re golden and crisp, flipping them over roughly halfway through.
Note: Place them under the broiler for the last minute or two for an extra crispy texture. Just be careful not to let them burn!
Although these air fryer zucchini fries are pretty failproof, we’ve got a few extra tips and tricks to guarantee you have success!
These air fryer zucchini fries are amazing served as an appetizer or snack on their own or with a dipping sauce. For instance, some of our favorites include chipotle mayo, Ranch dressing, nomato sauce, garlic aioli, marinara sauce, and mustard sauce.
Or, enjoy them as a side with any main course. Veggie burgers, gluten-free panko chicken, and golden air fryer chicken tenders, sweet and smoky baked pork chops all make great options!
These fryer zucchini fries are best served right away while they’re still warm and crisp. However, if on the rare chance you have leftovers, they can be transferred to an airtight storage container and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.
To reheat, warm them in the air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 2-3 minutes or until they’re warm and crisp again. Be careful not to burn!
The cooking time needed to cook zucchini in the air fryer will vary depending on how big they’re cut, how much you’re air frying, and your air fryer. However, in general, the total time needed for this recipe takes between 7-9 minutes.
Excess moisture is the most common reason why your recipe might turn out soggy. Don’t skip salting the zucchini, and make sure to properly pre-heat your air fryer before you begin!
Yes, zucchini themselves are a low-carb vegetable. However, they do contain a few carbs, and when paired with the other ingredients in this recipe, that number goes up a bit. The full nutritional information can be viewed in the recipe card below. No matter what, zucchini fries have far fewer carbohydrates than standard French fries!
Yes, this recipe is naturally low-carb and can fit into a Keto diet! Of course, consult your doctor with any specific concerns.
More of Our Favorite
Make these easy gluten-free air fryer zucchini fries in minutes for a healthy side dish, snack, or appetizer the whole family will love! Dairy-free option.
Alternative Method – OVEN OPTION – Preheat the oven to 400F. Spray the fries with cooking spray and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. After baking for 15 minutes, flip the fries over to bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes. If desired, broil for the last minute for extra crispy fries. Careful not to burn them!
Seasoning Tip – If using a seasoning mix that does not contain salt, add an additional ¼ teaspoon or adjust to taste.
Dredging Tip – Use one hand for dredging in the wet mix (egg) and the other for coating them with parmesan/flour. Then use tongs to place on a baking sheet or the air fryer.
Keywords: air fryer zucchini fries, air fry zucchini, zucchini fries, zucchini
Do you have questions, feedback, or tips about this recipe? Leave a comment below with any questions or feedback you’d like to share!
To zero in on the most current average costs and how much of the cost you can hope to recoup when you sell, we spoke with several experts:
We break down room additions by the project to help you craft a custom estimate, and break down important questions to ask a potential contractor.
Depending on the function of the room and the type of addition (ie, bathroom or home office, bump out or full addition), the size and cost of your addition will vary. Below is a list of the most common room additions and their costs. We’ll take a closer look at each project in the next section.
Project | Room Addition Cost |
Home office | $18,000 – $35,000 |
Bump out | $1,700 – $18,900 |
Dormer | $43,801 – $75,563 |
Balcony | $600 – $2,400 |
Laundry room | $5,000 – $8,000 |
Mudroom | $10,000 – $14,000 |
Porch | $4,600 – $22,000 |
Sunroom | $10,000 – $80,000 |
Cantilever | $15,000 – $25,000 |
Garage | $22,000 – $43,000 |
Bathroom | $20,000 – $60,000 |
Kitchen | $13,300 – $37,500 |
Primary bedroom suite | $25,000 – $100,000 |
In-law suite | $40,000 – $125,000 |
Home theater | $70,000 – $90,000 |
Angi analyzes homeowner surveys to determine average spending of completed home improvement projects.
HomeAdvisor gathers millions of real project costs from real homeowners in more than 10,000 U.S. cities and towns.
Fixr reviews cost information with experts in different fields of home improvement or design. They also check specialized publications, cost studies, and U.S. government reports.
Remodeling Calculator uses prices that are an aggregate of input from hundreds of pros across the U.S. as well as rigorous pricing research that is regularly updated.
In Santa Fe, it’s a huge bonus to homebuyers if the homeowner builds an additional bedroom or finishes out an unfinished space, adding heated square footage that can be used as an office space.
Tell us a little bit about your property and get a preliminary estimate of value in as little as two minutes.
With the help of our experts, we determined the most asked-for room additions and calculated the costs and return on investment (ROI), when available. They include:
A home office is currently one the most commonly sought-after features of a home, according to Leyba. While there is increased demand for home offices, according to the Chicago Tribune, the added market value may not be what you’re expecting. However, a home office addition could be tax deductible if you’re self-employed.
If you must have the additional space, one of the best ways to save on the cost of a home office is to bump out a wall (see below for bump out costs). However, if you need to increase square footage with an entire room addition, you can increase the value of the addition if it can also serve as a bedroom — this means including a minimum of 70 square feet, a window, and closet in your home office.
Leyba explains, “In Santa Fe, it’s a huge bonus to homebuyers if the homeowner builds an additional bedroom or finishes out an unfinished space, adding heated square footage that can be used as an office space.”
Bumping out a wall is one of the most common ways to extend your living space. A bump out (also known as a micro addition) is also an economical way to increase living space without the need for additional supports or foundation. The cost to bump out a wall depends on the length and depth of the build. It’s difficult to determine the ROI of a bump out, however, there is added value in increasing the square footage of your home.
A dormer is a second story addition that is typically incorporated into an attic remodel. Built out from the slope of the roof, a dormer adds light, ventilation, space, and a fire escape to an attic or loft space. They also increase visual appeal and value of a home. A dormer will cost more per square foot if it’s a bathroom addition. While dormers have a low ROI, they have an added lifetime value of reducing electric bills.
Add value, appeal and outdoor living space to your home with a second story (or higher) balcony addition. The cost of a balcony addition depends on several factors, including: design, size, materials, type of balustrade or railing, and the contractor you hire.
If your laundry room is situated in a place that requires you to run up and down the stairs with a basket full of clothes, or if your washer and dryer are in a small closet off the kitchen or bathroom, you may be considering adding a laundry room to your home. Good thinking! A laundry room addition will add visual appeal and convenience and increase your home value, and it’s the most common feature that buyers say they want, according to the National Association of Home Builders.
A mudroom is an informal entrance/exit to your home, typically added to a side or rear entrance. A mudroom is used to receive muddy visitors, store coats, boots, and pet supplies. The cost to build a mudroom increases if the mudroom has a utility sink, washer and dryer, or if the space is heated.
With a typical ROI of 66-80%, a front porch addition is a great way to add outdoor living space, curb appeal, and value to your home. Some factors that will increase the cost of a porch addition include the addition of stairs and screens.
A sunroom is a great place to enjoy your morning coffee, nurture your plants, read a book, or kick back and relax. But the cost to add a sunroom to your home isn’t cheap. It’s the price of the windows that make a three-season sunroom costly. A four-season sunroom is even more costly, with the addition of insulation, heat and A/C, and sometimes plumbing.
Meant to add space to the home without encroaching on the yard space, a cantilever addition is a second story bump out that is supported by angled beams (cantilevers). Most cantilever additions can be constructed without major excavation for added cost savings. Cantilevers are typically meant to add space to an existing room, not to support an entire room, however sunrooms, laundry rooms, and balconies are common cantilever additions.
If your garage is too small or if your home was built without one, a garage addition may be just the answer. Some factors that increase the cost of a garage construction include the addition of heat, insulation, plumbing, storage, and finished walls. In the southwestern states, where carports are more common than garages, a homeowner can save on the cost of a garage addition by converting a carport, which already has a foundation and a roof.
A home with too few bathrooms can quickly become a battleground. When you add a bathroom, everyone in the home benefits from the added convenience and privacy. And as homeowners, you’ll benefit from the added value when you sell. But Poulton warns it’s common for bathroom additions to get expensive fast. “The bathroom is where homeowners tend to make the most changes mid-build, which increases the cost of labor, materials, and permitting,” though costs vary with size.
The cost of a kitchen addition or remodel depends on the design and the extent of the build – whether you’re starting from scratch or using the existing electricity and plumbing. The cost of tearing out a kitchen includes the cost for demolition and removal. You’ll also pay more for a custom kitchen. Keep in mind that when you remodel a kitchen, how much of the cost you’ll recoup when you sell depends on the price point and condition of your home.
A primary bedroom suite or ensuite adds significant space, functionality, comfort, and privacy to the home and may increase the value as well. Most primary bedroom suites include a closet and a full bathroom. How much value an ensuite adds to a home depends on the size of the home and what’s typical of the market. If the addition is an over improvement, it would likely not add enough value to pay for the cost.
An in-law suite or accessory dwelling unit (ADU) typically features a bedroom, a bathroom, a kitchen, and a small sitting room. It is a small apartment, and may be attached or detached, usually with its own outside entrance. An ADU is a convenient space for homeowners to put up guests, adult children, or elderly parents.
Poulton estimates that the cost for an ensuite starts at $300 per square foot and goes up from there. “It’s the bathroom where things start to get expensive,” he says. “Anytime plumbing is involved costs go up, because the exact location of the existing plumbing in the wall isn’t always clear.”
And as Poulton explained above, bathrooms are where homeowners often make costly changes mid-build. According to Leyba, one floor plan that’s consistently used in Santa Fe’s new builds includes a casita (which is external and attached or detached) that is used as a mother-in-law suite or a home office. While the ROI of an ADU is entirely dependent on what’s typical of your local real estate market, it may be possible to recoup some of the construction cost by renting out the additional space while you are living in your home.
A theater room is a great place to kick back and relax with family and friends. A home theater must be built correctly for the best acoustics, so you’ll pay extra for a designer and an architect. Our estimate below also factors in the cost of purchasing and installing the theater projector and sound system, which averages $17,500.
How much is your home worth today? In as little as two minutes, HomeLight can provide you with a preliminary estimate of value in preparation of your plans to renovate, remodel, or make repairs.
The total cost for your project will depend on the size, location, complexity and quality of the addition as well as the typical cost for materials and labor in your area. Remember that your builder isn’t the only contractor involved in the project — you’ll also pay for subcontractors. For a more detailed picture, let’s dive into the average cost for labor:
When considering contractors for your project, you’ll get a better idea about the costs if you ask the following questions:
You have questions. Our experts have answers.
There are ways to cut costs on your home addition, including:
Large home additions don’t always cost significantly more than smaller plans. Poulton elaborates.
“Homeowners are surprised to learn that they can’t save by building a smaller addition. While they’re using less in the way of materials, it’s still the same or similar amount of work for the builder. So, the cost per square foot goes down as the size goes up. Most homeowners opt for the larger addition at a lower price per square foot.”
Homeowners expend a large portion of their budget on the first stages of the build such as drawings, permits, wall removal, excavation, and foundation (if necessary). So doubling the size of your addition may only increase the overall price of the addition by a third.
Additionally, Pitzen points out that all professionals involved in the project will typically require a base payment for their services. For instance, an electrician may charge the same amount for wiring a 12×12 addition as they would a 15×15.
It’s typically more cost-effective to build out rather than building up. When building up, your home structure must be reinforced to support the weight of the new addition and the roof must be replaced. If you’ve decided to build up, consider having the roof lifted to reduce the cost of building a new roof. Another way to save the cost of building up would be to convert an unfinished attic into living space, with a dormer or cantilever for additional space.
Return on investment (ROI) is a tricky concept for homeowners. Simply put, ROI is the percentage of your cost you can hope to recoup at home sale. Very rarely will a homeowner recoup the entire cost of an addition or remodel. How much of the cost you’ll actually recoup depends on the amount you invest in the addition and what’s typical in your market when you sell. There are sometimes cases of extreme ROI exceptions. Leyba says he recently had a client who turned a $200K house into a $450K house by extending the garage and adding space to the back.
Now that you have the average cost for your room addition, you can narrow in on a project estimate based on material and labor costs specific to your market. HomeAdvisor offers project cost calculators that factor in your location, addition size, and function (i.e. kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, etc.).
Leyba advises that when planning an addition to get the best ROI, a multipurpose room is typically going to add the most value, which means it must be heated, have a closet and an egress (window). In fact, not adding a closet or heating are two of the biggest mistakes a homeowner can make when adding on, which makes the addition a bonus room. Another mistake homeowners can make is not keeping the design and layout consistent with the rest of the home.
“If you’re using the cheapest materials you can find to cut costs and it doesn’t look like the rest of the home, you’re going to lose out on the value when you sell,” states Leyba.
If you’re looking for current, hyper-local intel into cost and value, it’s a good practice to meet with a top real estate agent experienced in additions and remodels in your area.
“What I specialize in is the impact of a renovation on the value of a home,” shares Harris, “I make spreadsheets and cost-benefit analysis to figure out exactly what kind of value you’re adding.”
I think that anytime you do a major home improvement project, you have to look at it from two different lenses: the cost-benefit, meaning how much it’s going to cost and how much it’s going to increase the value of your home, but then also how much you’re gonna enjoy that space.
Alison Harris Real Estate AgentCloseAlison Harris Real Estate Agent at Keller Williams Coastal Area Partners
- Years of Experience 17
- Transactions 481
- Average Price Point $300k
- Single Family Homes 426
Looking at the numbers, a room addition will set you back a pretty penny — so how can you decide if your efforts will be worth it?
“I think that anytime you do a major home improvement project, you have to look at it from two different lenses: the cost-benefit, meaning how much it’s going to cost and how much it’s going to increase the value of your home, but then also how much you’re gonna enjoy that space,” shares Harris.
For some objective expertise, reach out to a top real estate agent who can help you crunch your project’s return on investment. Equipped with a market-specific ROI estimate, you can determine whether it’s smarter to renovate or to sell and upgrade to a more spacious home.
Get a preliminary home value estimate in as little as two minutes. Our tool uses information from multiple sources to give you a range of value based on current market trends.
Header Image Source: (S.J. Janis Company, Inc.)
]]>Our little coat closet has seen a lot of change in the three and a half years we’ve lived here. But, last year I finally installed a DIY built-in organization system, and that has been a game changer for us. The only problem? Pretty shelves only do so much good if the shelves themselves aren’t organized!
A couple of weeks ago, I got sick of the chaos (again), and decided to do something about it. I’m working with The Container Store over on Instagram as an ambassador this year, so I did a ton of browsing and planning over on their website and came up with a plan.
And so far? It’s holding up pretty well!
As we all know, I’m not a pro when it comes to keeping a coat closet organized. But, I have learned a lot of lessons in my time trying to figure it out so far. So, here are five quick tips that will hopefully help you get started on getting yours organized too.
The first (and most important) step to take is to plan out everything you need to store in the closet. Sure, you probably have a general idea in your head of what goes in the space but do you know everything?
I found one of the most helpful steps in the process this time around was to actually write down all of the things we store in here or would like to store in here. This should include the things you don’t technically store in the closet that somehow end up in the closet anyways.
Once you’ve got your list, make a plan. Think about a space inside that closet for each and every category of items. I even took the time to sit down and use Canva to plan out how things would look and fit on the shelves before I even hit the “order” button!
Having a plan is key and you won’t regret taking the time to sit down and plot it all out ahead of time.
When I was creating our built-ins, I planned one shelf for each person in our family. That makes it a lot easier for me to plan and gives everyone a space for all of their random stuff. The boys each have a spot for their backpacks along with a sturdy bin that can hold anything else they want. This usually means hats, books or small toys they don’t feel like carrying upstairs yet, or water bottles. It’s random and I try not to micromanage in – the bin contains their chaos and I don’t have to think about it!
This was a big lesson for me this time around and I think it has made a big difference in how the closet feels! Last time I bought stuff to organize this closet, I used my favorite see-through storage bins. I use them all over my house because I love how easy it is to see what’s inside and find things when I’m looking.
The only problem? They can add a lot of visual clutter to a space, too! In this closet, we mostly know what’s in each bin. There aren’t as many categories as there are in our pantry or the art closet, so I don’t need to be able to see inside the bins. It just stressed me out!
So instead, I opted for bins that would hide the clutter a bit. For mine and Corey’s shelves, I also went with baskets that have lids. We access the things in ours less frequently, so it’s preferable to be able to stack them and keep everything fully hidden away. The boys use their bins on the daily, so they’re super sturdy and don’t have lids on them.
I mean, this tip goes into pretty much every post about organizing, but it’s important so it’s worth repeating again and again and again. I’m a firm believer that storage systems will not last if you don’t use labels. Especially if someone other than you is going to be using them!
Make it so that your family absolutely cannot claim they don’t know where things go. I promise, it’ll make a difference. We’ve got shoe and sock baskets in the bottom of our closet, and each one is clearly labeled with what’s inside. Just adding labels to these baskets increased the likelihood that shoes would end up where they belong by a solid 90%. It was kind of like magic.
It’ll also reduce the amount of times your family asks you “hey where’s X item?” At least, after you show them the label a few times.
A note on this: I also think it’s valuable to spend a little bit of time living with your system before labeling everything. For example, in our closet we have labeled the shoe baskets but the baskets on mine and Corey’s shelves are mostly unlabeled. Why? Because I want to make sure what we have in there works for us first! After we’ve lived with it for a month or two and know we like the system, I’ll go back in and label things.
I think in any organization project, it’s important to remember that what works for one family might not work for another. You could copy and paste my exact entry closet into your home and find it impossible to keep up with. That’s because every family has different systems, needs, and rhythms.
Why is it important to keep this in mind? Because you shouldn’t just go out and buy everything I’ve linked here and try to make your closet look just like mine! It probably won’t work! It’s important that you take the time to figure out what your family needs, how they use your space, and what they can keep up with.
For example – our kids do best being able to toss their shoes in a basket. Maybe you’d prefer shoe cubbies, putting them on a shelf, or keeping them in the garage!
We live in Texas, so we delegate very little space for coat storage. Maybe you need twice what we need. Or maybe you only use your coat closet to store one or two coats per person with the rest kept elsewhere.
My kids come in the front door after school and drop their backpacks in the coat closet right away. Maybe you come in through the garage and a mudroom or wall hooks near that door would make more sense. Or maybe, you need to add hooks to the door because the closet doesn’t have room for a shelf.
You get the idea. Spend some time thinking about your family’s rhythms and systems and make a plan based on how you already move throughout your day. It’ll last a lot longer that way. And finally…
I think this is a key to keeping yourself sane when trying to organize your home. No system is perfect – because your family won’t be perfect about keeping up with it. Over time, various extra things will make their way into the room. Things won’t get put up where they belong, and your pretty organization efforts won’t look so pretty anymore.
It’s impossible to avoid. Just plan for it, accept it, and embrace it. It’s okay!
I generally plan on doing a closet cleanup at the beginning of each season. As our needs shift, it always helps to take a second to reset things. This time, I packed our winter gear up high, cleaned out coats we don’t need anymore, and made a little extra room for sunglasses, water bottles, and pool gear. Before school starts, I’ll take a second to remove all of the summer chaos and leave more room for backpacks!
Going into an organization project knowing that you’ll have to touch it up on occasion makes it less painful when you have to touch it up. I don’t think there’s a family on the planet that keeps up their coat closet organization perfectly all the time. I promise.
Here’s a look at everything I used in this closet. It’s only been a few weeks but so far I’m thrilled with the new setup. The kids are keeping it better organized than they ever have, and I don’t find myself cringing at it when the door gets left open. It’s all so pretty!
The post Entry Coat Closet Organization (Tips & Tricks) appeared first on Love & Renovations.
]]>Your best saving tool is shopping deals on Walmart!
Neglecting much-needed repairs at home? Hop on over to Walmart.com where they’ve dropped the price of select Hyper Tough Tool Sets!
These sets are great to have around the house for easy repairs, but would also make a nice gift basket addition for new homeowners or to send with your kiddo that’s off to their first dorm or apartment. Plus, since select items are available for free store pickup – you still have time to grab them for handy Dads for Father’s Day!
Check out these Hyper Tough tool sets…
Hyper Tough 38 Piece Multi-Size Stubby Wrench & Socket Set
Only $12.88 (regularly $19.68)
Includes ratcheting screwdriver, adjustable wrench, ratcheting wrench, socket extender, 20 bits, 14 sockets & carrying case.
This little set has everything I’ll need in a convenient case. They have a nice weight to them and are comfortable in my hand. Just right to keep in my kitchen drawer.
Every house should have one! This is a nice, handy socket set. It is good for my household needs and the case doubles as a storage and catch for hardware. It is a great addition to my toolbox because the price is so good. I plan to pick up a couple more for gifts.
Hyper Tough 38 Piece Multi-size Stubby Ratchet & Socket Set
Only $7.88 (regularly $11.88)
Includes ratcheting screwdriver, socket extender, 24 bits, 12 sockets & carrying case.
*Note that availability may vary by location
Hyper Tough 32 Piece Screwdriver Bit Set with Storage Case
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Includes screwdriver, adapters, 30 bits & carrying case.
Hyper Tough 52 Piece T-Handle Ratchet Multi-type Screwdriver Bit Set
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Hyper Tough 50 Piece Drill Bit & Drive Bit Set
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Get more gift ideas for the men in your life this way —>
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!doctype>]]>Consumer Reports tester Joan Muratore evaluates bassinets in a CR lab.
By Angela Lashbrook
Looking for a place to park your brand-new baby? While a crib is the best choice in the long run, a good bassinet can often be placed right next to your bed, making it easier to conduct nighttime feedings and diaper changes.
Bassinets are small and have a shorter shelf life—they can be used only until your baby starts to show signs of pushing up onto their hands and knees or until they reach the weight and height limit of your bassinet, whichever comes first, says Jennifer Shu, MD, a pediatrician based in Atlanta and spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Still, it may be worth it for your family.
You’ll find our top picks below, and for a more complete look at how to shop for a bassinet, check our bassinet buying guide. And keep in mind the following safety guidelines when using a bassinet for your little one:
Babies should sleep on a flat—not inclined—surface. Inclines of 10 degrees or greater can restrict your baby’s airflow.
Babies should sleep alone in their sleep space. This means they shouldn’t be taking naps with your new puppy or other kids in their bassinet.
Keep toys, blankets, bumpers, and other items out of the bassinet. (Bumpers, in fact, are now banned under the Safe Sleep for Babies Act). These items can potentially suffocate your baby.
Bassinets have a short shelf life. Move your baby to their own crib when they reach the weight and height limit of your bassinet.
A quick note about our testing. Our testers looked at:
• How easy each bassinet is to assemble: How many pieces and steps does it have?
• What features it has: Does it have a motion feature? A shelf for diaper storage
How convenient the product is to use in general: Is it portable? Is it easy to access your baby? Is the height adjustable?
We didn’t test how well any of the features work with any actual babies, nor did we test noise levels on any bassinet that makes sound.
Happiest Baby SNOO Smart Sleeper Bassinet
CR’s take: This pricey bassinet gets our top score, as our testers found it easy to assemble—with few parts and steps to frustrate the excited (and potentially anxious) parent-to-be—and pretty convenient to use. The Snoo is a smart bassinet, which means it moves and makes sounds that are designed to soothe the baby. The Snoo received a top score in our tests because of its plethora of features, including multiple movement and noise levels that respond to a baby’s cries, which you can limit if you don’t want it rocking and shushing your baby at the top of its range. Most of these features are controlled via the Snoo app. It also has a “preemie mode” that limits movement up until the baby’s original due date (babies can be more easily overstimulated when premature). It can also be used when disconnected from WiFi, if your power goes out, or if you prefer to keep your smart devices off your home network, although you’ll lose access to some features. On the downside, the Snoo is not super-portable, so you might want to keep it in one spot rather than move/ it from room to room.
A heads-up that in 2022, we wrote an article about some concerns experts have with certain Snoo features, including the noise level—which some experts believe may go too high—and that it requires a baby’s movement be restricted in the swaddle longer than is developmentally ideal. Parents can work around some of these worries by turning down the noise levels, ensuring baby gets lots of time outside the bassinet, and moving them into a crib the minute they’re ready.
4moms MamaRoo sleep bassinet
CR’s take: This smart bassinet received high marks in nearly every category. Like the Snoo, it has tons of features, including movement and sound options to calm baby. Unlike the Snoo, which has one type of movement (rocking back and forth) and sound (a generic white noise) with adjustable levels, the MamaRoo has customizable sounds and movements. If you (or baby) aren’t a fan of the plain white noise “fan” sound, for example, the MamaRoo has rain, ocean, and “shush” (like a parent saying “shh, shh”) sounds; movement options include car ride, kangaroo, wave, tree swing, and rock-a-bye. You can also control the speed of these movements separately, so you can have a softer kangaroo movement, for example, or a more intense car ride. Our testers used an inclinometer to ensure that the MamaRoo (and all our tested bassinets) never reached an incline of 10 percent or greater, which can be dangerous for a baby’s airflow. Our testers found the MamaRoo easier to control than the Snoo, as many of these features can be controlled via buttons on the side of the bassinet—which is helpful if your phone dies or you have a caretaker who is perhaps less tech-savvy.
Our testers appreciated that the MamaRoo has an adjustable frame height, so you can make sure the bassinet lines up comfortably with your own mattress height, should you choose to place it directly beside your bed.
Cons: Unlike the Snoo, the MamaRoo doesn’t activate automatically upon a baby’s fussing. It’s also heavy and thus not super-easy to move. This is the primary reason the MamaRoo scored a tiny bit lower than the Snoo.
Fisher-Price Soothing Motions Bassinet
CR’s take: This is a budget-friendly smart bassinet with movement, sound, and light features. Movement is limited to vibration, and a “sway” feature that is so gentle, it’s barely noticeable at all. The Soothing Motions Bassinet also plays sounds and music that are supposed to chill out your baby. It also has a unique feature: a light show that projects stars onto the ceiling. It has a night light, which allows for easier diaper changes and nighttime feedings. Below the bassinet, there’s a shelf for storing diapers, pacifiers, or other baby essentials.
Halo BassiNest Swivel Sleeper 3.0
CR’s take: Not interested in a smart bassinet? You may want to consider the Halo BassiNest, our top-rated nonsmart bassinet. This bassinet is great for bedside accessibility. The frame height is adjustable and, true to its name, the bassinet swivels 360 degrees. One side can be lowered for easier access from the bed, and the bassinet can be removed from the frame and transported, like a Moses basket.
While we liked this bassinet, it has a downside: Its legs have a very wide footprint, splaying wide and perhaps presenting a tripping hazard to an exhausted parent getting out of bed in the middle of the night.
According to Joan Muratore, test program leader at Consumer Reports, you may want to consider the stability of a bassinet before you purchase one. If it’s set up at a store, she says, push down on the side, as if you were a toddler attempting to reach into it, and see if it begins to tip. This is, obviously, a particular concern if you have other children or rowdy pets in the home.
You’ll also want to think about where you’ll be parking your bassinet, and whether there are any design features that may conflict with your desired placement. “With the Halo, the base is enormous, and if I’m a sleep-deprived parent and I have to get out of bed, I might well trip because the legs are splayed out,” Joan says. “To me, it would be a tripping hazard.”
Consider the adjustability of the bassinet height, especially if you intend to keep the bassinet right beside the bed. Some platform beds, for example, are quite low, so you’ll want to compare how high your mattress is against the base height of the bassinet.
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.
]]>The sun’s out. The warm weather is back. It’s time to fire-up the grill and invite friends over and you do…but the deck is a mess, guests are getting eaten alive by mosquitos, and you didn’t make enough food! Not being prepared is every hosts worst nightmare. Well never fear, we created a Summer Party Checklist to take away the guesswork so your next summer party is a success!
I’ve broken our TIA Summer Party Checklist into a few main categories…
Alright, let’s get party planning!
All great summer parties start with a clean and inviting space for everyone to gather. This will look different depending on where you live. However, a few basic maintenance steps will ensure your party space is inviting, guests are comfortable despite weather, and even minimize pests.
In my opinion, basic lawn and yard maintenance is the bare minimum you need to do before hosting a party. Even a sloppy mowing job can instantly boost the appearance of your yard, and it can also cut down on pests like mosquitos.
Doing this just makes me feel more confident before having people over.
If you’re interested in new outdoor power equipment (OPE), you can read TIA OPE Reviews for product recommendations.
Now that your yard no longer looks like a jungle, you can turn your attention to your patio, deck, or whatever outdoor living space your friends and family will gather in.
In addition to those cleaning steps, at the start of each season, I like to deep clean my outdoor living area. Here are two products I recommend depending on your situation.
Cleaning your deck, patio, or siding is an optional step. I do recommend doing these at least every couple of years and before any painting projects.
Nothing can kill your party’s vibe faster than pests like flies buzzing around your food, or getting eaten alive by mosquitos. Here are a few options for eliminating yard pests.
Sometimes the rain sneaks up on us (or you “forgot” to check the forecast). A Pop-up Canopy provides your guests and food protection from rain and wind. A model with mesh, zipper walls is also a great way to keep bugs away from food.
TIA recommendation: COBIZI 10 ft. x 10 ft. Pop-Up Canopy
Amazon Review: “This side wall is an excellent wind blocker. We recently had a party and used 4 pop-ups to create a large covered area. It was chilly and windy so we added side walls around the perimeter. This worked well to block the wind and provide a nice party space. It attached easily to the pop-up canopy and it was nice to have the window to let the light in. Definitely recommend.”
No, this doesn’t have to be fancy, but guests appreciate an obvious, designated area for trash. I do suggest keeping a roll of trash bags nearby for convenience.
Check out our Outdoor Storage Board on Pinterest.
Alright, onto my favorite part: food and drink planning. Here we give you a few tips to help you calculate how much food and drinks to make or buy, grilling tips, recipe suggestions for a crowd, creating a food prep and buffet area, and some grill and smoker recommendations.
When it comes to cooking for a crowd, I suggest going simple. You can’t go wrong with classic cookout items like hamburgers and hotdogs. Cooking one large protein, like a pork shoulder, tenderloin, skirt steak, or brisket, and cutting it up to serve a crowd is another great plan.
This great food calculator suggests estimating 1 lb. of meat for an adult, and a 1/2 lb. for a child, with 6-8 oz. of that being protein (about one burger patty). So, first get a headcount, then I like to round up by a few pounds. In a worse-case scenario you end up with some leftovers.
You also need some side dishes. You can estimate around 1 cup of food per person. I suggest going with something simple, like salad and/or pasta dish. You can also save time, money, and stress by asking guests to bring a dish to pass.
How you plan to cook your food can be equally as fun as planning what to cook – or the reason you invited people over in the first place.
Generally, grill items are quicker, but higher stakes. You need to pay more attention while you’re actually cooking and can’t step away as easily. A smoker on the other hand, smoking or slow-roast bbq can be very hands-off, but your cook time starts much earlier.
For grilling tips, read our TIA article How To Grill the Perfect Hotdog.
Want to know the difference between a cookout vs a bbq? This TikTok video gives a fun distinction between the two.
For more grill and smoker recommendations you can read our TIA Grill/Smoker Reviews.
We also saw a lot of great grill and smoker products at our recent trip to Weber. You can read about it in our TIA article A Look at the History of Grilling: Our Trip to Weber.
Whichever you choose, don’t forget to stock-up on fuel, pellets, charcoal, or whatever your outdoor kitchen requires!
Alright, your menu is decided, the food is purchased, now save yourself some stress by prepping as much as you can beforehand. We love this Bamboo Cutting Board. It comes with multiple prep containers for staying organized, and has a built-in mandolin slicer.
Sometimes you can also season your proteins ahead of time. This can actually help draw out moisture and make food crispier. We like Blue Hog Seasonings and use them often when we’re testing grills and smokers.
9. Plan Your Summer Party Drink Menu
Planning your drink menu should be a little easier. It mostly comes down to headcount and whether or not you’re serving alcohol.
First of all, you should always have a non-alcoholic option plus water. This drink calculator suggests estimating two non-alcoholic drinks per person for the first hour, and one drink per person for each hour after that. If serving alcohol, estimate about one drink per person drinking per hour.
You can very easily be hands-off and just serve bottled beverages. This is nice and easy and makes cleanup a breeze. However, you can have a designated bar section, or make a large batch of cocktails for easy serving.
For large batch cocktail ideas, check out this article 19 Big Batch Cocktails for a Stress-Free Party.
I know you know to put bottled drinks on ice. However, we included a few great tips for making ice last and how to keep your drinks cold longer in our TIA Cooler Challenge article.
Now, for drinks that aren’t bottled you have a few options…
Alright, this part is easy but essential. Make sure you have a clean and open area to cook in, a place to set food that’s waiting to go on the grill and a place to put it once it comes off.
If you don’t have a nice outdoor kitchen, then invest in 1-2 folding tables available on Amazon. Not only are they great for food prep, but they can double as an outdoor buffet table once the food is ready.
Not necessary, but I also like to use disposable tablecloths for easy cleanup. You can find them at your local dollar store, or buy this pack of 12 tablecloths for $23 on Amazon.
Alright, your yard is clean and ready, your menu is picked, now you just need guests to feel welcome and enjoy themselves. Here are a few tips and items to help guests feel relaxed and enjoy themselves at your summer party.
It’s amazing how a little background music can help guests loosen up and feel more at ease. And don’t worry, you don’t have to spend hours crafting the “perfect playlist”. Choose from a variety of summer playlists available on music platforms like Spotify.
Depending on how long people will be over, it’s nice to have a game or activity to pass the time. Kids especially appreciate a game to play.
I know, I know. Summer parties are about spending time together and hanging out outside. However, sometimes guests want downtime to play on their phone, check emails, or check social media.
Just make your Wi-Fi password easy to find, you can even incorporate it into your home decor. While you’re at it, create a summer party hashtag so friends can post about the #BestPartyEver!
You’re pretty much all set to have a great summer party. Here are just a few extra items to go the extra mile on your Summer Party Checklist.
That’s all we got. Is there anything else you do to make sure guests have a good time? If so, let us know. Aside from that…time to party!
The post TIA’s Summer Party Checklist appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.
]]>By Anna Kocharian
Picnic season has arrived. Whether you’re gathering on grass or sand, a handful of staples are worth taking along to elevate the ambience and comfort of dining alfresco.
Planning can make the difference between a seamless experience and a last-minute scramble. Take it a step further: Try to aim for a zero-waste outing by making a few eco-friendly swaps. We have you covered with helpful tips on what to take to your next picnic.
• The Basics
• Essentials for the Elements
• Eco-Friendly Swaps
• Cleanup Staples
When shopping for coolers, opt for ones that come with a handle, a drain to empty water as the ice inside melts, and, when camping, large wheels.
Photo: Eli Asenova/iStock
Even if your chosen picnic spot has tables, you’ll want to take at least one blanket, whether it’s for the kids to play on, for lounging, or for an outdoor nap. Try to avoid natural textiles such as wool (it gets too hot and could be damaged if it gets wet) and linen (it’s not thick enough to double as a barrier against damp or uncomfortable surfaces). Go for a blanket that’s lightweight yet large enough to accommodate your group, and remember that you can always layer a few together.
If you’ll be on a beach, a waterproof and sandproof blanket or mat is ideal. It will typically feature a water-resistant backing to prevent the surface from getting damp (a plus for grassy areas as well) or a nylon material, which makes shaking the sand off a lot easier. And here’s what makes a good beach towel.
Shop for picnic blankets: Amazon, Walmart, Wayfair
Whether you’re taking the traditional route with a basket or keeping it simple with totes and a cooler, packing food and drinks properly is important. (Food safety aside, ice-cold drinks are always welcome on a hot day.)
If you need to take ice, try to steer clear of plastic foam coolers, says Perry Santanachote, Consumer Reports’ sustainability reporter. If you don’t have a reusable one, Igloo makes a recyclable and biodegradable cooler made from paper pulp, which you can reuse several times ($10 at Target).
CR’s home and garden reporter, Paul Hope, is a fan of Rubbermaid coolers. He looks for options that come with a handle, a drain to empty water as the ice inside melts, and, when he’s camping, large wheels.
Shop for Rubbermaid coolers: Amazon, Home Depot, Rubbermaid
“Most coolers work well when you don’t open them excessively, when you pack them tightly with items that are cold and/or frozen, and when you pack them properly,” Hope says. Be sure to check your cooler’s directions, but a good rule is to pack ice in a 2:1 ratio with food and drinks. So for every 1 pound of food, add 2 pounds of ice to the cooler.
And if you’re kicking it old school with a basket, go for one that’s insulated and leakproof, or with a built-in tabletop that can do double duty as a serving platter.
“Nobody’s going to forget sandwiches or drinks, but they might forget napkins, gloves, or a cutting board,” Hope says. Take 5 minutes to make sure you have everything you’ll need, beginning with small plates for sharing, and salt and pepper for extra seasoning. And don’t forget a knife, paper towels, wipes, a garbage bag, and hand sanitizer. “The common theme here is the items that aren’t super-glamorous but are, in some way, irreplaceable.”
If you plan to build a campfire, be sure to check local ordinances and park and beach rules about bonfires before you light one up.
Photo: Getty Images
Take protection against whatever Mother Nature may throw your way. Sunscreen is a must when spending time outdoors, and for those who’ll be picnicking in wooded areas or lakeside, insect repellent is important to keep mosquitoes and ticks at bay.
Everyday Humans Oh My Bod! Lotion SPF 50
Ben's Tick & Insect Repellent Wipes
Keep the good times rolling with the right tunes and a portable speaker that can easily move around from place to place. The water-resistant Bose SoundLink Color II is compact and delivers good overall sound quality, with a surprising amount of power given its size.
Bose SoundLink Color II
Make sure you have a bottle opener on hand if you’re packing beverages that will require one. And if you plan to build a campfire, don’t forget a long-neck utility lighter, Hope says. But be sure to check local ordinances and park and beach rules about bonfires before you light one up. In some states, fire risk is higher than usual this summer.
Water is essential for any outdoor outing, and an insulated travel mug will keep it cool and refreshing for hours. The Takeya Traveler can hold up to 17 ounces of whatever beverage you’ll be toting and is leakproof to boot. It even managed to snag a rating of excellent in our temperature-retention test, thanks to its double-walled stainless steel interior.
Shop: $22 at Amazon; $30 at Target
Avoid plastic cutlery. The compostable kind is better.
Photo: Blanchi Costela/Getty Images
Planning for cleanup will make it much easier for everyone—and nature. To do your part, aim for a zero-waste picnic or something close to it. Here, Santanachote breaks it down with a few simple swaps that can go a long way.
Shop our picks for silicone food storage bags:
• W&P Porter Stand-Up Bag: $15 at Amazon, $15 at W&P
• Stasher Quart Bag: $12 at Amazon, $20 at Stasher
• Zip Top Sandwich Bag: $14 at Amazon, Ziptop
Trash bags are always a must, especially if you’re unsure whether there will be a place to put trash at your picnic spot. A majority of national parks and seashore sites are “carry in, carry out,” Hope says. That means you should be prepared to take out anything you take in because there won’t be any garbage cans. For that reason, he recommends making sure you’re adequately prepared to remove any waste you produce, including empty chip bags and aluminum cans. The latter can be sorted out and recycled at home. And because messes and spills are inevitable, be sure to keep wet wipes on hand.
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.
]]>Eliza Anderson, Deseret News
Bookcases with broken backs, bed frames where every support slat had been pulled out, uncovered mattresses coated in at least a decade of dust, high school homework from kids who graduated more than eight years ago, melted candles (after numerous summers in outside storage), bills from 2009, dot matrix printer paper and floppy disks. These are all things I’ve paid money to store. For years.
On Memorial Day weekend, my husband and I and some of our adult kids emptied out our storage unit — the one we’ve had for so long I can’t remember when we got it. We took five trailer loads to the dump and two to Deseret Industries (mostly books).
I found cute baby boy and girl clothes that I kept because I had this fantasy that my kids would want them for their kids. My youngest son turns 23 this month. My youngest daughter is 8. As it turns out, styles change in more than 20 years and my kids who are parents are not that interested in clothes from 2000 or earlier. Go figure. Also, I found out that elastic gets brittle after 20-plus years, making pants and socks useless anyway. For our youngest daughter, I forgot that we had stored baby girl clothes in the storage unit and we bought new items for her. Sigh.
After years of paying for a storage unit, why clean it out now? Well, I’ve been binge-watching the show “Hoarders” and it has been both terrifying and motivating.
Each show begins with the disclaimer that “Compulsive hoarding is a mental disorder marked by an obsessive need to acquire and keep things, even if the items are worthless, hazardous or unsanitary.” Up to 19 million Americans have hoarding disorder, says the show.
The National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization, now the Institute for Challenging Disorganization, developed a five-level scale to define the seriousness of the hoarding. Level 1 has few visible indicators because the hoard can be kept out of sight, but the person who is a Level 1 hoarder has trouble throwing away items and may do a lot of shopping for things that are not really needed. Level 2 has noticeable piles, with at least one blocked exit, the clutter is starting to spill into the walkways and the hoarder is embarrassed to have visitors over. Level 3 involves so much stuff the walkways are narrowed, the home smells and the hoarder typically has poor personal hygiene. Level 4 has homes with structural damage, sewage issues and rooms that cannot be used. And with Level 5, there are clear fire hazards, no electricity or water, and accumulated human waste.
I may not qualify as a hoarder, but I definitely don’t declutter as often as I should. Why? There are a number of reasons, I’m sure. My ADHD means it’s easier to stick stuff in a box and forget about it rather than deal with it. We still have a lot of people living in our home. I’m busy. Sometimes, I have strong emotional attachments to things. When our daughter Angelia died, I held on to her blanket for 10 years before I could donate it. Ten. Years. My husband hangs on to things because his mom grew up in poverty and she held on to things, just in case. You just never know when you might need to reuse bread ties. It took me 20 years to convince Greg that the computer programming books that were current in the 1980s were just no longer relevant.
I asked some of my friends what they were holding onto that they could let go of, and you know what I learned? We all hold onto stuff. Here are some of their answers: broken skates, rocks, old check registers from more than a decade ago, old Playstation games, hand sanitizer bottles, teeth (baby and wisdom), socks without a mate, old magazines, dried up paint, scrapbook stuff we paid a fortune for in the ’90s and haven’t touched since, the first training bra, a candy wrapper from a fun trip, floppy discs, stained clothes and a 33-year-old strawberry basket.
Radio talk show host Debbie Dujanovic shared her story about detaching from greeting cards.
I’m 56 years old and hauled around boxes of cards from my toddler years on up until last summer. I’ve moved at least 13 times and each time unopened plastic containers of well wishes went with me. It sounds ridiculous, but I felt guilty parting with them. Thanks to a conversation I had with Amy Donaldson Brass last summer I dumped the guilt, and thankfully most of the cards. ... I sat down with stacks of birthday, Christmas, graduation cards and went through each one. I kept some — the ones with kind words of encouragement or those from family members and close friends who have had a positive impact on my life. I donated the remainder, boxes of them, to a recycle bin.
At least two other friends have kept cards for decades — one of them more than 60 years. Uh oh. Looks like I have another decluttering project to tackle ...
Stay tuned for Part 2 on what to keep.
Holly Richardson is the editor of Utah Policy.
]]>If you enjoy our chicken salad sliders, lightened up no mayo chicken salad bowl, or this curried chicken salad, you’re going to love this chicken salad wrap recipe! Creamy, refreshing, and savory all at once, it takes classic chicken salad to a whole new level and is super simple to make! As if that wasn’t good enough, it’s also:
Of course, what is considered healthy looks different for everybody. However, generally speaking, this recipe is a great option! It’s loaded with protein, fiber, nutrients, and healthy fats thanks to the use of whole-food ingredients. Plus, you can mix and match your favorite ingredients to add extra nutrients and meet your dietary needs! All in all, we consider it a pretty healthy recipe but consult your doctor with any specific concerns.
This salad wrap comes together with just a handful of simple ingredients for a refreshing flavor and creamy texture that leaves you feeling satisfied and energized.
We kept these chicken salad wraps fairly simple, but you can also add different mix-ins and ingredients! For example, some great variations include:
Super easy to make, these gluten-free green goddess chicken salad wraps come together in minutes!
Note: For a thinner dressing, add an extra tablespoon of olive oil at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Pro-Tip: If you’re making this recipe ahead of time, leave out the cucumber and avocado until you’re ready to serve. (See storage tips below.)
If you love air fryer recipes as much as we do, you’re in luck! Simply pre-heat your air fryer to 375º Fahrenheit, arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the basket, and bake until they’re fully cooked, flipping them over halfway through. Set them aside to rest before dicing them up, and follow the rest of the recipe as listed in the recipe card below.
If you aren’t a fan of tortillas, this chicken salad also makes for a great dip with your favorite gluten-free crackers. Or, If you’re looking for an option that’s lower in carbohydrates, feel free to serve it in Bibb or Romaine lettuce leaves instead. Either way, it pairs well with all your favorite side dishes! For example, some of our favorite pairings include:
If you want to prepare this green goddess chicken salad ahead of time, we recommend leaving it out of the tortillas until just before serving. Then, transfer the mixture to an airtight container, and keep it stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best results, we recommend omitting the cucumber and avocado until just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
We don’t recommend freezing the recipe as its flavor and texture will likely be altered once thawed.
More of Our Favorite
If you enjoyed this green goddess chicken salad wrap, you won’t want to miss out on more of our favorite wraps below!
This gluten-free green goddess chicken salad wrap recipe for a light but filling, high-protein meal! Dairy-free option.
Salad Wraps
Texture Tips – Canned lite coconut milk will produce a thinner green goddess dressing. Full-fat coconut milk will produce a thicker sauce/dressing that might need olive oil to thin out
Alternative Method (Air Fryer) – Preheat the air fryer to 375F. Place seasoned chicken breasts in the preheated air fryer and bake for 12-16 minutes (depending on thickness) flipping halfway until they read 165 degrees F at its thickest point. Once chicken reaches 165 F remove the chicken from the air fryer and allow it to rest for at least 5-10 minutes before dicing or shredding.
Meal Prep Tips – If meal prepping this chicken salad for the week, mix diced chicken with the green goddess dressing and store in a sealed container. Keep cucumber and avocado separate until ready to serve then mix into the chicken. Keep the chicken salad separate until ready to wrap in the tortillas and eat.
Keywords: chicken salad wrap, salad wrap, green goddess chicken salad wrap
Do you have questions, feedback, or tips about this recipe? Leave a comment below with any questions or feedback you’d like to share!
These shrimp make a great filling for tacos or omelets or serve them on top of a salad. You can pair them with white rice or Sweet and Spicy Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower.
Shrimp are one of my favorite foods to cook in an air fryer. Large shrimp air fry in just about 5 minutes. So quick and convenient.
These air fryer shrimp are a great low carb meal and they cook up perfectly juicy and flavorful.
I am spoiled by living on the South Carolina Coast and I have easy access to very fresh shrimp. If you don’t live near the coast, you are probably best off buying frozen shrimp. Let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a colander and run water over them until they thaw. It doesn’t take long at all. I like to use large shrimp for this recipe.
I’ve tried more than a few air fryers over the years. My current favorite is the Cosori 5.8-Quart Air Fryer. It cooks well, is made well, is easy to clean, and makes less noise than some other brands.
Careful not to overcook the shrimp. Shrimp cook very quickly and get rubbery in texture if overcooked. They are done as soon as they turn opaque.
Leftovers will keep for 3 days or so in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Eat them cold on a salad or reheat them in the air fryer or microwave.
The post Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp appeared first on Spicy Southern Kitchen.
]]>All this recipe really needs is corn on the cob, olive oil, salt, pepper, and butter. There are so many ways to customize it beyond those ingredients, but keeping it simple is always good too!
PRO TIP: For easier clean up, line the air fryer basket with aluminum foil!
Have fun adding your favorite toppings and seasonings! Here are a few of my favorite air fryer corn on the cob variations:
Fresh corn on the cob is best, but frozen corn on the cob works in a pinch. If using frozen corn on the cob, let the corn thaw for 30 minutes and add 2-3 extra minutes to the cook time.
Yes, feel free to cook more than 2 ears of corn at a time if your air fryer is large enough. Place the corn in a single layer with space between each.
Use whatever variety of corn on the cob looks freshest at the store! I used “bicolor” corn for this recipe, but all yellow or white corn would also work great.
Store leftover corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, just pop it back in the air fryer for a few minutes to warm back up!
Complete any dinner recipe with air-fried corn on the cob. I love serving corn with:
The post Air Fryer Corn on the Cob appeared first on The Cookie Rookie®.
]]>"This razor gave me the silkiest, smoothest shave I've ever had! I never get any cuts or scrapes, even on those hard-to-shave places."
There are truly some gems to be found on Amazon, and the prices are often insanely good compared to what you’ll find at any other retailer. In fact, there’s a whole treasure trove of Amazon home decor that has no business being as affordable as it is. Without further ado, I’d like to share some of my favorite picks that look way more expensive than they really are.
The extra-tall height makes these taper candle holders look like something you’d see in a Pottery Barn catalog.
You may have seen versions of this glass lamp before, but this under-$30 option is truly unbeatable.
10+ colors available
Drape this marble accent piece across a coffee table or bookshelf to instantly elevate the look.
The antique finish and hammered texture make this brass vase feel extra special.
The wooden handles are an added detail that make this rattan tray look way more high-end than its under-$30 price point.
Made of natural marble, this striking tray would look perfect on a bathroom vanity or entryway table.
7 colors available
Large-scale mirrors can be a big investment, but this gorgeous arched option is surprisingly affordable for its size.
2 colors available
Measuring almost four feet tall, these artificial eucalyptus branches make an affordable filler for large-scale vases.
Colored glassware is having a moment, and these muted colors are perfect for kicking your bar cart up a notch.
Fill this wooden bowl with small trinkets or use it as a catch-all on a coffee table or console.
Three tiers of glass shelves leave plenty of room for storage and styling on this console table.
2 colors available
A large, leafy plant is just the thing you need to fill an empty corner or liven up a dull space. Even better, this stunning bird of paradise plant requires absolutely no upkeep.
Turn candle-lighting into an experience by storing your matches in a gorgeous blown-glass holder.
4 colors available
The sculptural shape of this chair is super unique, and I can guarantee no one will believe you when you say you got it on Amazon for less than $200.
5 colors available
This chic side table makes the perfect spot to rest a drink in the living room or as a nightstand alternative if you’re short on bedroom space.
3 colors available
Unique vases are super trendy right now, and I love the bulbous shape of this one.
3 colors available
If you’re looking for an alternative to *that* gold arch mirror, this is about as close as you can get to the real thing but for a fraction of the price.
The cane trend has been around for a while, but these rattan coasters offer a unique take I’ve never seen before.
These colored glass candle holders are the pop of color your table decor needs.
8 colors available
It’s the little details that really pull a space together, and this faux-leather tissue box cover is the finishing touch you didn’t know you needed.
10+ colors available
Give your fancy candles the treatment they deserve with this stunning glass cloche.
The modern frame and leather seat make this accent chair look like it came from a luxury furniture store.
This drum coffee table looks like something you’d find at CB2 for double the price.
3 colors available
I’m obsessed with the unique shape of this table lamp. It’d be perfect for adding a little unexpected glow to an accent table or bookshelf display.
These simple striped pillow covers are a classic option that’s perfect for layering.
4 colors available
High-quality curtains are a must to tie any room together. The linen texture and pinch-pleat design give these a designer look on a DIYer’s budget.
10+ colors available
Pop a plant or vase on this mirrored shelf for a beautifully unique wall display.
4 colors available
These rippled glasses are a super fun way to elevate any at-home happy hour.
5 colors available
Set this carafe and tumbler on the nightstand in your guest room, and your guests will truly believe you’re the hostess with the most-est.
This woven basket is perfect for stashing blankets next to the couch or as a chic cover for a plant pot.
2 colors available
The post 30+ Amazon Home Decor Picks That Look Way More Expensive Than They Are appeared first on The Everygirl.
]]>I’m sharing the best air fryers you should buy right now including Ninja, Instant Pot, and more! With over 4 million air fryers sold per year, they have quickly been taking over the way people cook at home.
Here are the 12 best air fryers for 2023:
Ninja Foodi DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer – $249.99
Make your entire meal in this savvy air fryer with dual baskets. Each basket can cook at a different time or heat setting so you can make two foods in two different ways and all at the same time! Ninja is known for making excellent appliances and this one is no exception. If you’re ready to upgrade your air fryer from Ninja’s highly-rated single-basket version, don’t overlook this sleek model. It also comes in a new version with a smart thermometer!
Here’s what else you’re going to love about it:
“I am enjoying this Foodi Air Fryer so much! I love the dual sides and the ability to set the timing and temperature differently on each side and have them finish at the same time. The fact that there are different methods of cooking you can use on each side is a huge help, too! Air fryer fish on one side and roasted potatoes on the other, finishing at the same time! Dinner was served and cleaned up in no time! Total game changer!”
Power Air Fryer XL 5.3 Qt. – $119.99
This extra-large air fryer is your best option for hosting pizza nights and even baking delicious cakes. Several team members own this air fryer and love it, including our very own recipe blogger, Lina!
Here’s what else you’re going to love about it:
Here’s what Lina from our team had to say about her Power Air Fryer:
“I enjoy making different air fryer foods in my XL like bacon, veggies, and chicken nuggets, and even warming up leftovers is a cinch. It’s so simple to use even my kids use it on their own. It’s also very easy to wash, and overall a great machine that has worked well for many of our family meals. I use this appliance weekly!”
Philips Premium AirFryer XXL 7qt. – $231.35 (regularly $349.95)
If you’re in the market for a simple, easy-to-use air fryer, this is just what you need! This air fryer requires absolutely no preheating and it holds up to 7 quarts or 3 pounds of food. Best of all, Philips claims their savvy air fryer has special fat removal technology that captures more excess fat than the leading competitors!
Here’s what you’ll love about it:
“After much consideration and online research, we bought this Philips Air Fryer. My husband wanted a large capacity, I wanted something that would let him eat the fried foods he loves and me not suffer from grease-induced heartburn woes. This air fryer is all we could have wished for and more. It is a bit difficult to get grease off the burner element at the top of the air fryer after a bacon-frying session, but otherwise easy to use and keep clean.
My first try at using it was to make blackberry hand pies, a treat I remembered from my youth. I found a recipe online, made it up, and the results were terrific. So easy to do, the results outside-crispy, inside-moist, and absolutely delicious. We find ourselves using this air fryer several times a week, and not a single thing we’ve made has been less than delicious. Fried chicken came out amazing, battered halibut filets were better even than deep-fat fried, chicken-fried steaks were stupendous. And not a hint of heartburn, either!”
Instant Pot Vortex 6 Qt. 4 in 1 AirFryer – $79.95 (regularly $119.99)
Not only are air fryers a healthier alternative to deep-frying, but they’re also a time-saver for those of us who don’t always have time to heat up the oven or stove. This Instant Pot air fryer “fries, roasts, bakes, crisps, and reheats to perfection,” all in a fraction of the time of other kitchen appliances.
Lina even shared these 11 air fryer veggie hacks that you could try with your new Instant Pot Vortex!
Here’s what else you’ll love about it:
“I love this thing! I hesitated to buy it because it takes up prime real estate on my counter but after trying out some stuff cooked in one my friend had I just had to buy it. It’s fantastic for cooking chicken wings and for baking things like those frozen garlic breadsticks my kid loves that require you to heat up the oven to 4,000 degrees just to cook them for 4 whole minutes. That’s no fun in south Florida heat!
But where it really shines is in reheating leftovers like pizza and fried foods. I even reheated fish and chips using the air fryer mode and they tasted just like fresh from the restaurant. I’ve used this thing at least once a day since I bought it, sometimes more. We toast scones for breakfast, make tuna melts for lunches, and cook wings and fries for dinner. It’s fantastic!”
Breville Smart Oven Air Convection Toaster – $399.95 (regularly $499.95)
Looking for an air fryer with all the bells and whistles your heart desires? Well, this one is it! Not only is it an air fryer, but it also features 13 other functions to perfectly cook your favorite foods.
Here’s what else you’ll love about it:
Here’s what Jenna from our team had to say about her Breville Air Fryer:
“I am obsessed with my Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer! It definitely is on the spendier side, but it really does do it all! Since getting it, I have only used my actual oven a handful of times. This thing makes everything crispier – from fries and pizzas to chicken legs and wings! Plus, it bakes cookies to PERFECTION! Love it!”
DASH Deluxe Electric Air Fryer & Oven Cooker – $67.91 (regularly $99.99)
We know we’re not supposed to judge a book by its cover, but the DASH Deluxe Air Fryer in that retro aqua shade is certainly nice to look at! But don’t worry, this powerful appliance is more than just a pretty face..
Here are some of the cool features:
The only downside is that it’s a bit larger than some other fryers on this list. Luckily, if you can’t spare the counter space, DASH has a smaller air fryer perfect for compact kitchens!
“So I’ve been wanting my family to eat healthier, but my husband is resistant to change. He is a man who loves all things fried…wings, french fries, burgers, corn dogs, etc. I decided to bite the bullet and I’m so glad I did! Be warned… this thing is HUUUGE! Other reviewers said it was big, but I didn’t realize how big it was. Like, it’s bigger than my 6qt InstantPot. Not a problem for me as I have the storage space, but something to consider for those with limited storage and countertop space.
That being said, there are no other negatives. It’s so easy to use, cleans super easy, and food comes out sooo good. So far I’ve made country potatoes and chicken cordon bleu, and my husband raved about how good they were, despite being way lower in fat than how I’ve previously made these dishes. I can’t wait to make wings this weekend! Worth every penny.”
Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill With Air Fryer – $134 (regularly $169.99)
After doing extensive research on all the best air fryers, the Ninja Foodi Indoor Grill is the one that ultimately won Sara on our Hip team’s heart. Not only does this 5-in-1 appliance look beautiful sitting on her counter, but this pretty little workhorse can do it all: indoor grilling, searing, dehydrating, roasting, and of course air frying!
Here’s what else you’ll love about it:
Here’s what Sara on our team had to say about her Ninja Foodi Grill:
“The Ninja Foodi Indoor Grill totally knocked it out of the park when it comes to quality craftsmanship and making great food. It will most definitely last for years like my other beloved Ninja appliances. Take a moment to read my detailed review of the Foodi and find out why I can’t stop raving about it!”
COSORI PRO II 5.8 Qt. Air Fryer and Oven Combo – $129.99
Clip the Amazon coupon to save $20
Final price just $109.99!
This air fryer is like an entire kitchen in one. With 12 different cooking functions and a 5.8-quart capacity, there’s practically nothing the Cosori Pro II XL can’t cook.
If you prefer to control your air fryer with an app, this air fryer does come in a smart version also!
Here’s why you’ll love the Cosori Max XL air fryer:
“The only air fryer you will ever need! I recently purchased the 5 Qt. Air Fryer PRO LE from COSORI, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. This is my first air fryer and it has completely transformed the way I cook, I feel like my meals are healthier and more delicious.
Right from the start, I was impressed by the user-friendly interface. Navigating through the various cooking options is a breeze, thanks to the intuitive control panel and clearly labeled buttons.Another thing I particularly appreciate is the compact size of this air fryer. It doesn’t take up much counter space, allowing me to maximize my limited counter area. I appreciate how this compact air fryer perfectly caters to my needs while saving valuable countertop space in my kitchen. Also, the sleek matte grey design is very modern looking, it blends seamlessly with many of my appliances.
Overall, if you’re searching for a reliable and versatile air fryer, look no further than this phenomenal appliance from COSORI.”
Gourmia GF716 7 Qt. Air Fryer Oven With Touch Screen – $82.50 (regularly $89.99)
The Gourmia 7-Qt. Air Fryer and Oven Cooker packs a lot of power at a super affordable price! It also has an extra large basket and cooking capacity without taking up a ton of real estate on your countertop. Reviewers thought this was the perfect budget air fryer that can hold its own against its more expensive counterparts. This multi-functional air fryer really gives you bang for your buck!
Here’s why you’ll love the Gourmia air fryer:
“Having owned an air fryer in the past, I knew of what they are generally capable of, but this air fryer blew away my expectations. The preset cooking buttons are really on point for cooking time and temperature and are a real time saver, and the turn reminder notification is a smart feature that every air fryer should have.
Regarding capacity, 7 quarts seems to be a great size and more space allows for more even cooking and it doesn’t take up that large of a footprint on your counter. Chicken wings and fries come out amazing, but you could use this for any food that you’d like to have a crispy outside, well cooked inside, and be done in seemingly half the time of a regular oven. Couldn’t be happier with this Air Fryer!”
Searching for a sleek, classy, and elegant air fryer? Look no further than this 6 qt. touch screen air fryer from the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore collection. It has a 5 lb. food capacity that can make enough food to feed a family of 5 – 7! Who knew that such a practical kitchen appliance could look so pretty? For under $100, this air fryer is a steal.
Here’s why you’ll love the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore air fryer:
Here’s what Hip2Save’s Lina had to say about her Beautiful by Drew Barrymore air fryer:
“This has to be my favorite appliance from the collection! This air fryer works like a dream and is big enough for cooking for a larger family of 5-7 people. The dishwasher-safe inner basket is what sets it apart from other air fryers in my opinion. It is essentially more of a flat tray that sits at the bottom and is so darn easy to rinse off and clean.”
Ninja SP101 9-in-1 Air Fry Countertop Oven – $134.95 (regularly $219.99)
If you want an appliance that can do it all, look no further than the Ninja Foodi SP101! You can bake, broil, fry, reheat, dehydrate, and more with this powerful, 1800-watt air fryer. And one of the best parts is that you get XL air fryer features without having to sacrifice counter space! When it’s not in use, simply flip it on its side and store it against your kitchen backsplash for convenient access.
Here’s why you’ll love the Ninja Foodi SP101:
“If this item had the ability to give a 10-star review, I would assign it all 10 stars. This is a fantastic air fryer. After doing my research I chose this one primarily because we are a family of 7, so we need the room. I am SO pleased with the results…and it is super easy to use. The whole unit easily flips up (after cooling) so that you have access to all of your counter space. I was skeptical at first, wondering about flipping an extra-large air fryer on end… but we easily do it…what a bonus!
Some of our amazement is how delicious things taste, and that might be true for any air fryer… BUT, with the extra-large capacity, I can get everything done in one cycle and, not heat up the house. Things take far less time too… hash brown patties that take 28 minutes in an oven, are done in 12 minutes on air fry. I cook chicken in the Instant Pot, then brush with BBQ and finish off under the broiler in the air fryer. The large size basket fits approx 20 legs… delicious!
You can’t go wrong here…. even if you aren’t a large family, you will LOVE the benefits of the Ninja air fryer. We are SO glad that we chose it.”
Instant Pot Duo Crisp 8 Qt. 11-in-1 Air Fryer & Pressure Cooker – $179.95 (regularly $199.99)
Save space in your cabinet when you buy this multi-functional air fryer that also works as a pressure cooker! The pressure cooking function will help you cook juicy meats up to 70% faster than traditional cooking. Meanwhile, the air fryer allows for healthier cooking that uses up to 95% less oil than other cooking methods. You’ll get the best of both worlds with this highly-rated appliance that gets 4.7 stars!
Here’s why you’ll love the Instant Pot Due Crisp:
“A friend told us about this pressure cooker and how it does everything just right. We’ve used ours for about a month now and it sure does, from rice to ribs to even a pressure cooker based pineapple upside down cake, food is just perfect with the right amount of moistness and literally no lost flavors. It also cooks very fast! Certainly one of, if not, the best kitchen appliance purchases we’ve made in a very long time. It’s definitely the most versatile of all the little gadgets and ovens we have in our kitchen!”
Craving something sweet? Check out Lina’s air fryer cake recipe!
!doctype>]]>This post contains affiliate links for your convenience.
Ever since we moved into our home with acreage I knew I wanted to fill the backyard full of outdoor things for the kids to enjoy. Ever since I was a child, that is exactly what we had growing up–my dad had built up a treehouse and we were always outside active, playing sports and keeping busy.
Isn’t that what kids need today?
These last few years have not been easy and many families have fallen into ruts where kids are addicted to their screens and watching way too much than they’re supposed to on social media.
Let’s flip the script here and let kids be kids and play until it’s dark out when it’s time to come home! I mean, safely of course.
Ever since we installed our Springfree trampoline, the kids have been spending literally hours on it jumping, flipping, shooting hoops, and practicing their gymnastics moves. There are so many activities and fun memories to be made here.
The key differences is that one uses retractable metal springs connecting the mat to the frame that are exposed, while Springfree uses flexible rods. The Springfree rods are out of view and out of contact by being installed underneath the frame of the trampoline.
By having the rods under the trampoline, they are not a safety concern, whereas exposed springs can easily cause accidents. No springs equals piece of mind for moms and dads.
A traditional trampoline has metal posts attached to the frame to hold up the netting around the trampoline. A Springfree trampoline has flexible, bendable rods that hold up the netting and are also extremely safe and move with jumps and falls so that kids can be safe at all times.
As I mentioned before, our kids need to stay active and explore outdoors for their health and wellbeing. It’s a priority.
This is an investment you won’t regret and will bring memories, smiles and laughter for many years to come.
The kids are only kids for a short time – it really flies by right in front of your eyes. That’s why it’s so important to make those positive, happy memories imprinted in their minds so they can look back and remember the wonderful childhood they had, being outdoors and playing with the kids from down the street. Getting dirty, being creative, and doing so in a safe environment while Mom and Dad can have piece of mind.
This is a common question within the trampoline community and the Springfree website reassures customers that there is no need to disassemble the trampoline for winter months.
However, our family is in northern Ontario where some winters can be much more severe, and more amounts of snow than other parts of the province. If you live someone with higher amounts of snow, by a lake for example (lake effect!) then you may want to consider the take down just to be safe and keep the materials in tip-top shape. The weight of large amounts of snow and ice can definitely strain the mat, but then again the netting may prevent the snow from really compounding inside. The only way to tell is seeing for ourselves, so I will update you in one year!
This is tricky because ever since we got our Springfree trampoline, kids from around the block came out to play too. And although the safety standard is one jumper at a time, that’s almost impossible to manage when you have big kids with a whole lot of energy (and attitude!) but it’s important to do your best and supervise.
Accidents can happen. There is such a thing as a double bounce, and a parent’s worst nightmare is running to the emergency room over a sprained ankle or a broken shin. Yikes. These things can happen. So as a mother, I try my best to keep an eye on the kids which is why I placed the trampoline close to the house, close to window view. I can manage the kids if they begin to get out of hand or play too rough. I can also keep an eye to make sure they are gentle when the little ones want to join in on the fun, but my biggest recommendation as a parent to a parent is to always supervise.
You can always set limits like how many can jump, big kids only, no flips, etc. Let the kids know you’re in charge and they need to listen to the rules to earn their trampoline play time!
Some of our favourite features includes the durable, easy to use zippered enclosure. The kids can easily open and close it and it’s made with quality materials, as is the entire net. It even comes with a tiny lock that we can use to keep the trampoline off limits for when we’re sleeping or out of the house. This is a great little feature especially if you have little children who want to sneak on or kids on the street who also want to use it without supervision. This way you have full control as a parent!
Go big or go compact. Springfree offers a wide variety of shapes and sizes of trampolines to fit your space perfectly.
We went with a large oval trampoline because the spot where I wanted it, the oval was the perfect slim fit between the house and the garage. I wanted to place it in view from our back deck, to supervise the kiddos at all times and I love how I was able to find the perfect fit for our yard.
We went with the 8 foot by 13 foot Large Oval. Also available here. I’m so happy how well it fits into our space! If you have the room and a level ground, definitely go bigger because the bigger, the more fun of course.
Injuries are virtually impossible thanks to using rods that are placed under the frame, rather than springs that can pinch! The soft edged mat is also worry-free and allows for more surface area to jump on. There are also no metal poles holding up the net enclosure, only flexible posts that won’t hurt if you fall into them.
With our old trampoline, the kids would climb up the outside of the net, walk around the springs (which a foot could fall through or get pinched) and the cover that protected the springs ripped easily and deteriorated from the weather. No need to worry about any of that once you make the switch!
Here are some tips to keep in mind when setting up your Springfree trampoline:
The post Springfree Trampoline – Real Mom Review appeared first on North South Blonde.
]]>Laundry day is always a mess. You have nothing left to wear, there are too many clothes to be washed, and you have to find a way to finish your laundry with limited resources and little space. I’ve experienced this exhausting chore for a good two years before I finally decided to make my life easier! Laundry storage ideas are my savior! They make doing laundry so much more organized, I feel like I’m successfully accomplishing ten chores at once! Moreover, laundry storage ideas can upgrade your lifestyle and aesthetic too! Who says you have to lower your standards just because you’re doing laundry? Amazing laundry storage ideas can give you productivity and a good time! So, keep on reading for the best laundry storage ideas!
This laundry storage idea combines some woodworking skills and sewing skills. It’s a bit of work, but the rewards are priceless! This reversible wood hamper has a durable (and stylish) fabric bin. Plus, it can be folded! We all know you don’t need that extra clutter in your life!
Look at how neat this laundry storage idea is! Labeled laundry bags hooked on the wall is just what you need if you’re saving up on space! It also makes the actual process of doing the laundry much easier because now you’re forced to sort them out beforehand! Follow those labels!
For those who don’t have the luxury of space of setting up a laundry room or even a group of laundry baskets, this pillowcase hamper is for you! Just by using an embroidery hoop, this pillowcase hamper becomes the quintessential on-the-go laundry storage idea.
Just imagining having to store wet laundry in a room can be stressful already. But not if you have the right laundry storage equipment! This pulley rack is the blessing we’ve all been waiting for! No need to think about where to put your laundry as this inventive DIY takes care of that!
Laundry storage isn’t just about storing actual clothes. It also involves storing a lot of other necessities like detergent, softener, and soap, among others. To solve this dilemma, you need these floating laundry shelves!
Have you ever wanted to store your laundry in a chic and sophisticated way? I also found the idea of being stylish when it comes to laundry storage kind of funny. Until I came across this DIY laundry basket dresser! You don’t need to break your aesthetic just because you’re dealing with laundry!
For those who have so much laundry to do, let a set of wheels help you! We can’t always count on someone to help us with this tiresome chore, but that’s not a problem! A DIY mobile laundry station is all you need! Laundry predicament solved!
I know a laundry storage problem we all have: heavy clothes breaking the laundry bin. Well, today is the day we solve this difficulty. A simple wire laundry hamper is the answer! Retain the big and spacious laundry bin you love with the sturdiness and durability of well-crafted wire support!
At some point, you’re going to find yourself having to carry your laundry. Doing laundry isn’t always stationary. Different circumstances require different laundry storage ideas. This DIY laundry bag is spacious and sturdy enough for all your laundry needs!
Let’s face it as organized you can be with your laundry storage, socks inevitably lose their pairs! So, here’s a genius laundry storage idea: hang them on a lost laundry socks sign! Not only is it creative, it helps you save some sock money too!
Maximize your laundry room space with this DIY laundry sorter! Look at how high it goes! You can think of an entirely new category of clothes after making storage space that high! Laundry storage has never been more efficient.
Watch this video from Rachel Talbott for more laundry storage ideas:
Now, I bet you can’t wait to do your laundry! How can you resist volunteering to do this chore when you have these amazing laundry storage ideas to work with? I suggest you plan as many trips as possible right now so you can use up all your clothes! I’m kidding. I know you can find ways to wash as many clothes as you can with your newfound laundry storage ideas. They always ask: is it a chore if it’s easy? Well, now you can say, “If you do it with great laundry storage ideas, then it most definitely is!”
Which of these laundry storage ideas are you excited to try? Let me know in the comments below!
Looking for more laundry storage ideas? Check out these DIY Organization Ideas for Your Laundry Room!
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]]>If you love this recipe, you’ll also love my favorite breakfast recipes: protein chocolate yogurt, high protein overnight oats, egg omelet cups, chocolate baked oatmeal, scrambled egg sandwich, perfect scrambled eggs, and freezer breakfast burritos.
Before you cook the eggs, decide on your yolk preference: hard, soft, slightly jammy/slightly runny. This will determine the cook time. Use this cook time formula to make 1 egg or multiple eggs.
New to Instant Pot Cooking? Read my Instant Pot Starter Guide & learn how to cook the best recipes for the Instant Pot.
Peel & Store: The easiest way to peel the eggs is to place the unpeeled eggs under running water, then peel as the water runs. Store the eggs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Peel the eggs immeadiately if you’re eating now, or if you prefer to store the eggs peeled in the fridge for a future meal. The easiest way to peel the eggs is to run the egg(s) under water, peeling as the water runs over the egg shell. Dry the peeled egg and enjoy or store in a meal-prep container for up to 7 days.
Find easy and healthy breakfast ideas, from the fluffy scrambled eggs to einkorn muffins and overnight oats, in my breakfast section of the blog.
The post Easiest Instant Pot Boiled Eggs (Hard or Soft) appeared first on Live Simply.
]]>Roll out to your adventures in style with a WonderFold Wagon deal!
Popular Wonderfold Wagons make the perfect accessory for any of your summer adventures! They offer a spacious area to store all your gear, and some are designed to help transport your kiddos, too.
Right now, you can visit HSN.com where they are offering the Wonderfold S3 Outdoor Utility Collapsible Wagon w/ Rear Basket for just $149.99 (regularly $199.99)! Note that shipping adds an additional $9.95 at checkout.
Even better, new customers can score $10 off their first purchase when they use promo code HSN2023 at checkout!
WonderFold S3 Outdoor Utility Wagon w/ Rear Basket $149.99 (regularly $199.99) – 5 color options!
Use promo code HSN2023 ($10 off for new customers)
Shipping adds $9.95
Final cost $149.94 shipped!
The WonderFold utility wagon has up to a whopping 200lb capacity, thick wheels to tackle bumpy terrain, also includes a removable rear basket to stash away smaller items or pack lunches. It can be pushed or pulled with a handle on either side, plus a step brake at the back and two front-wheel brakes for when it’s idle.
And when it’s not in use, it folds down compactly for easy storage and transport. It’s perfect to tote around all your sporting equipment, camping gear, beach accessories, or even groceries!
For a limited time, you can grab the WonderFold X2 Stroller Wagon from Zulily.com for just $359.99 (regularly $469)! Note that shipping is free, but a $5.99 heavy/bulky item fee will apply at checkout, making your final cost just $365.98 shipped!
That’s easy savings compared to paying $389 on Amazon!
This popular stroller wagon seats 2 kids with a 5-point safety harness and can hold up to 150lbs! It has a removable canopy, an adjustable handlebar, foot break, and can be either pushed or pulled with a handle on either side. Plus, it easily collapses down for storage. This would be perfect for any summer adventure with the kids!
WonderFold X2 Stroller Wagon $359.99 (regularly $469)
$5.99 heavy/bulky item fee applies at checkout
Final cost $365.98 shipped!
Stop by Sam’s Club for a larger version…
On a recent trip to Sam’s Club, we spotted the WonderFold W4 Elite Stroller Wagon w/ Snack Tray for only $559! Note that this currently isn’t available online and stock may vary by store.
That’s a very strong deal as this version of the WonderFold Wagon retails for $699 without the snack tray! (It’s out of stock directly from WonderFold.)
This WonderFold Stroller Wagon is a versatile and comfortable solution for families with up to four children. With removable and reclining seats, 5-point safety harnesses, an adjustable canopy, ample storage space, and all-terrain wheels, it offers convenience, safety, and flexibility for parents and children alike.
It’s approaching my favorite time of year…Father’s Day! The time of year where I get to show off to Dan all the great stuff my wife and kids got me – just kidding! But I do love this time of year. It’s a fun opportunity to reflect on some of the great tools we have reviewed here at Tools in Action, and check out some other great stuff to include in our 2023 Father’s Day Gift Guide.
We have a great list this year. We also tried to make it easier to navigate by dividing the list up into interests. So whether you’re shopping for your dad, an uncle, a spouse shopping for your husband (or even shopping for yourself), you can jump to whatever list sounds like the person you are shopping for.
Gift ideas for dads who always “need” a new tool and their garage is their sanctuary (we know the type). Some of the tools mentioned are perfect for those doing framing for home additions, and electric and plumbing installations.
For the Dad who likes to entertain with his superb cooking and grilling abilities.
Gift ideas for the dad who takes pride in his cookouts and backyard parties, wants everyone to have a good time, and believes “the more the merrier” when inviting people over.
Gift ideas to keep his man cave sleek, organized, and a fun time for everyone he invites into his space.
Gift ideas for the dad who feels most in his element when he’s out-and-about in the great outdoors and always planning the next great adventure.
So there you have it! COMMENT to let us know which gifts you’re buying this year or adding to your wish list.
The post 2023 Father’s Day Gift Guide appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.
]]>May 21 through September 17, 2023
Also see
https://arthistorynewsreport.blogspot.com/2014/10/cezanne-and-modern-masterpieces-of.html
In the late 19th and into the early 20th century, European artists’ ability to travel along newly industrialized railway lines, and cross paths and share ideas, led to the transmission and evolution of varied artistic styles. Impressionist and Post-Impressionist Masterpieces from the Pearlman Foundation will present 38 outstanding works from the renowned collection assembled in the second half of the 20th century by New York collectors Henry and Rose Pearlman. Paintings and sculptures by Cezanne, Manet, Degas, Gauguin, Van Gogh, Pissarro, Toulouse-Lautrec, Modigliani, Soutine, Lipchitz and others will be seen within the context of their experience of transience—regional, national, and international. It will explore the friendships the artists developed in Paris, as well as the many varied locations and sites that shaped their work. The exhibition will be on view at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, from May 21 through September 17, 2023.
“Henry Pearlman’s highly personal approach to collecting sought to capture the momentum of art and thought at the dawn of the modern era,” commented Gary Tinterow, Director and Margaret Alkek Williams Chair, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. “This exhibition is an exceptionally rare opportunity for visitors to see this distinguished collection outside of its home at Princeton University. For this presentation, we will be juxtaposing Pearlman pictures with works from the MFAH collection in order to broaden the representation of the artists, as well as to highlight Henry Pearlman’s distinctive point of view.”
Ann Dumas, MFAH consulting curator of European art, noted, “Henry Pearlman was fascinated by both the art and the lived experiences of the artists he collected. He was interested in work that reflected not only creative experimentation, but also meaningful exchanges and relationships between painters and sculptors. He was especially drawn to artists whose travels and emigration stimulated creative exchange and innovation, and so his collection highlights the dynamic and increasingly international artistic crossroads of Paris during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.”
About the Exhibition
The installation’s organization will explore relationships, both personal and artistic, between artists, broader cultural movements and Pearlman as a collector.
The pairing of Vincent van Gogh and Paul Gauguin alludes to their mutual influence. Van Gogh’s search for inspiration led him from the Netherlands to England, Belgium, Paris, and eventually the South of France. Gauguin’s trajectory took him to Peru, France, Tahiti, and the Marquesas. The two artists met in Paris in the fall of 1887, and developed an alliance that profoundly influenced both of their work. Included here is Van Gogh’s Tarascon Stagecoach (1888), painted in Arles. Van Gogh produced this painting to impress Gauguin with how the qualities of light in southern France had transformed the younger artist’s own understanding of color and developing signature style. Presented in this gallery along with Van Gogh’s Tarascon Stagecoach is Gauguin’s Te Fare Amu (The House for Eating) (1895 or 1897), a polychromed woodcarving. The imagery connects to Gauguin’s personal interpretations of Tahitian myths, but the sculptural format evokes the Maori wood carvings that the artist had seen in New Zealand.
Chaïm Soutine, Jacques Lipchitz, and Amedeo Modigliani, all Jewish immigrants to Paris, each came there with new ideas about painting and sculpture, and each settled in the famed cosmopolitan artists’ residence La Ruche (The Beehive) in Montparnasse, where prolific cross-cultural connections fueled their creative output. Here, three portraits by Modigliani—two paintings and a limestone—and three landscapes and three portraits by Soutine express how these leading School of Paris artists remained true to figuration while distorting form for expressive ends. Four Lipchitz sculptures show both his expressive and his more naturalistic approach.
The exhibition also presents the strength of Henry Pearlman’s collection of Paul Cezanne’s paintings and watercolors. One section of the exhibition will consider the significance of Cezanne’s native Aix-en-Provence on his sense of self and his work. It will also evoke his times in Paris and the artistic relationships he forged there. Featured paintings include Cistern in the Grounds of the Château Noir (c. 1900), Route to Le Tholonet (1900–04) and Mont Sainte-Victoire (c. 1904–06), from one of Cezanne’s most iconic series.
Finally, Henry Pearlman sought out artists, developing lasting relationships with several, including Lipchitz and the Austrian painter Oskar Kokoschka. With the advent of World War II, Lipchitz fled Europe for New York, where he was welcomed by Pearlman and other patrons, and critics. Kokoschka took refuge in London. Pearlman met with him there in 1948, and sat for his portrait, which is presented here, as is Lipchitz’s 1952 portrait bust of the collector.
The Museum will include in the exhibition several works from its own Audrey Jones Beck Collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and early modern painting, which was assembled during the same period as the Pearlmans’ acquisitions. The synergy between the two collections will amplify the presentation of certain artists, notably Cezanne and Gauguin, and provide a perspective on American collecting in the mid-20th century, presenting enlightening contexts through which to view both collections.
About the Pearlman Collection
The Henry and Rose Pearlman Foundation Collection was assembled by Henry Pearlman (1895–1974), one of the finest such collections in private hands. Pearlman, the son of Russian immigrant parents, was born in New York City. A self-made businessman, he founded, at 24, the Eastern Cold Storage Insulation Corporation in New York, developing and manufacturing marine insulation. In January 1945 Pearlman happened to pass the window of a Manhattan auction house, and spotted a Chaïm Soutine landscape. Enchanted by the painting, Pearlman made a successful bid for the work—View of Céret (1921–22), on view in this exhibition—and that first purchase triggered a passion for collecting that endured for the rest of his life. He thrived on the thrill of the hunt and uncovering hidden masterworks, learning about the social bonds among artists and their mutual aesthetic influences. The Pearlman Collection has been on loan to the Princeton University Art Museum since the mid-1970s.
Publication
The exhibition will be accompanied by a free, richly illustrated, digital publication, which will include essays, an interview, and poems that will explore the themes of travel, migration, and creativity.
Amedeo Modigliani, Jean Cocteau, 1916. Oil on canvas, the Henry and Rose Pearlman Foundation, on loan to the Princeton University Art Museum.
Vincent van Gogh, Tarascon Stagecoach, 1888, oil on canvas, the Henry and Rose Pearlman Foundation, on loan to the Princeton University Art Museum / Photograph: Bruce M. White
Every family is different and there could be many reasons you are looking for crib alternatives. Maybe your space is too small for a crib, or maybe your little one just doesn’t like the crib.
Whatever the reason, I’m here to support and provide safe alternatives for you! I’ve done the leg work and found crib alternatives for every sleeping style!
Safe sleeping options for infants is so important. Having a safe sleeping space for your baby drastically reduces the risk of SIDS.
So, what exactly are safe sleeping options for infants?
Safe sleep options for infants must be:
Examples of spaces adhere to these guidelines would be:
Sometimes parents choose not to have a crib. Some of the reasons why include:
I chose a crib alternative for my babies. I wanted my baby close at night, and really loved that the crib wasn’t taking up a ton of space.
My son actually despised the #criblife and would only sleep in a pack ‘n play! Cribs aren’t mandatory for your little ones, but a safe sleep space is!
Let’s discuss more on the safe sleep guidelines for infants. Following these guidelines helps to ensure your infants safety while sleeping.
Position
You may be familiar with the saying “back is best” in regards to sleeping infants. Back sleeping is best for infants because it reduces the risk of suffocation.
As we know infants have trouble lifting their heads due to neck strength, so tummy sleeping can be dangerous for babies that are not strong enough to roll forward and back.
Sleeping Surfaces
To adults, firmer mattresses may seem stiff and uncomfortable, but for infants firm is best.
Room sharing
You may want your baby to be in the room with you, which I totally get. Room sharing done responsibly can be beneficial for parents and baby.
When room sharing make sure that your baby has their own safe sleeping space. Make sure that the room is well ventilated with moving air and not too hot.
Now that we know what to look for and that there are crib and basinet alternatives out there, let’s start comparing!
A mini crib is exactly what it sounds like, a crib that is smaller than a traditional crib. Mini cribs are great alternatives to regular sized cribs, but just like anything come with pros and cons.
Before we get into my favorite mini cribs, I will list out the pros and cons so you can make the best decision.
Pros:
Cons:
The compact dimensions mean the Dream on Me Mini Crib occupies a small amount of space externally, but internally it is very spacious! This mini crib is ideal for small nurseries, room sharing or multiples.
This mini crib is perfect for indoor use, where you’ll only be moving it from room to room. Non-marking 2-inch caster wheels with two locking make it an easily portable baby crib for short distances.
2 locking caster wheels keep the London Mini Crib stationary when it’s where you need it.
This crib is JPMA certified to meet or exceed all safety standards set by the CPSC ASTM; chemicals have no place in your nursery, so they use a non-toxic, baby-safe painting process that are lead and phthalate safe.
I love that the adjustable height mattress support with 2 convenient positions to grow with your baby.
Bring the joy and versatility of a mini crib into a parent’s bedroom, shared nursery, or small space without compromising on style. It’s suitable for a newborn to beyond 18 months.
The Davinci Mini Crib has 4 adjustable mattress positions to grow with your baby. You can easily roll around the crib and then make it stationary when it is where you want it!
Bedside sleepers are appealing to many families that want baby close, but not in the bed. Bedside sleepers are like a bassinet, that has an opening on one side.
The open side allows the sleeper to be pulled up next to the bed.
Pros:
Cons:
I love that this bassinet is easy to attach or remove from parent’s bed using the two fastening straps provided. 7 height positions to adjust to many bed heights.
Easy-open side panel for bedside mode and wo-side mesh makes a more breathable and cozy room. The stable bottom is a supported and comfortable mattress with a sleeping board.
This baby bedside sleeper combines a baby bed and rocking bassinet, meeting multiple needs of new parents in one. By pulling down the zippers, you can place it right next to your bed, convenient for breastfeeding moms to get back to sleep after feeding.
The crib can be adjusted to 5 heights, fitting parents’ beds of different heights. Also, the retractable feet allow you to move the crib closer to your bed. To make sure safety during sleeping, you can use the included straps to install the crib next to your bed.
AMKE Bedside Bassinet features a no-tool assembly and advanced quick-folding mechanism, allowing for easy setup in no time.
AMKE Bedside bassinets with breathable mesh sidewalls and zipper design makes it easier to care for a baby from bed, especially for breastfeeding and C-section moms, it is truly a sleep saver and improves the quality of life.
The Besrey bassinets bedside sleeper is sturdy! It is made with aviation-grade aluminum and steel alloy for durability.
I love that it is fully compliant with ASTM, CPSIA, and CCPSA standards, keeping your baby safe and promoting bedside parent-infant bonding with your little one.
The Elemara bedside sleeper can hold a Max weight: 33 lbs without tipping over. The sleeper has 3 extended steel tube supports, 3 layers of stitching, and 4 supports making it extra sturdy.
ELEMARA baby bassinet has 3 adjustable heights to choose from to help mom take care of her baby without having to stand up. No need to walk at night, baby is right next to you.
Travel cribs are great for those times when you are traveling far away or at the park and your babe needs to nap.
Pros:
Cons:
The sides of this travel play yard are made from soft and airy mesh fabric, allowing you to see your baby. The zipper door design can be easily opened for gentle placement of the baby or to help the baby crawl in and out more easily.
With no assembly required, and a simple setup, the Pamo Babe Portable Crib sets up and packs quickly. Only to be propped the four legs need outward and pull the armrests, the assembly is complete when it clicks.
The Baby Bjorn Travel crib is amazing to have on hand. The mesh sides are a great thing to have and the crib is simple to put together.
All fabrics are removable and washable, which all parents can appreciate!
The KidCo Portable Travel crib allows your child sleep soundly just about anywhere adventure has taken you. It is designed with lightweight mesh, which allows for air flow and acts as an insect screen during outdoor use.
I love the UV protection and adjustable sun screens. It comes with anchor straps to provide security while in use.
Baskets are starting to make their way back around. I have seen more and more of the, and for good reason.
While the basket does have it’s fair share of pros and cons, I can see why they are appealing.
Pros:
Cons:
This basket is great to be used at bedside or around the home. It is super lightweight and portable, while still being suitable for babies up to 18 pounds.
Use this light-weight basket in any room at home, or fold it up and take it to grandma’s, the babysitter’s, camping, or traveling in the car. Your baby will be more comfortable with a little bit of home wherever you go – and a happy baby means less hassle!
This basket is fitted with sturdy handles, you can easily carry this changing basket for baby from the nursery to the living room. You’ll also get a carry bag, so you can bring this basket when traveling!
Montessori crib alternatives can be great for babies. While it may seem a bit scary to put your baby on a mattress to sleep without bars to keep them in, it can actually be beneficial for their independence.
Pros:
Cons:
If you are wanting something simple yet fun to encourage independent sleeping this bed is it! The convenient, low-to-floor- design, makes it easy for your child to get in and out of bed.
This Montessori floor bed is crafted with premier quality in mind, the floor bed frame twin made of high-quality pine wood and MDF that can enhance stability and durability. It comes with wood slats for extra support and ensures air moves freely around your mattress to keep it fresh for years to come.
This house bed was carefully crafted with solid pine wood and MDF to make it durable and sturdy. This bed will grow with your baby. I would recommend this type of bed for older babies.
While co-sleeping or bed-sharing is not recommended, some parents may choose to. It is important to have a safe sleeping space for your baby.
I listed some above in the bedside sleeper section, but here are a few more of my favorite co-sleeping and bed-sharing crib alternatives.
Pros:
Cons:
If having your baby close is important, you might consider the baby flex. It’s specially designed legs allow you to bring baby close on any surface, including carpet. Height adjustable to fit most beds heights.
Because it’s lightweight, the bassinet can be effortlessly moved around the house. It can be folded into the included carry bag for compact storage, carried around and then easily assembled for use.
The Snuggle Nest is an infant lounger that creates a comfortable spot for your baby to lay and relax. The tall walls are lined with a soft, comfort-mesh which helps provide ample air circulation and breathability.
The Graco Sense2Snooze Bassinet with Cry Detection Technology is the only baby-operated bassinet by Graco. The Cry Detection Technology uses a built-in microphone designed to hear baby’s cries and respond by automatically adjusting the bassinet’s settings to help soothe baby back to sleep.
With head-to-toe soothing motion, 3 different speeds, 2-speed vibration, white noise, 10 sleepy songs, and 10 soothing sounds, the bassinet can find the right combination of settings to help calm baby.
The sturdy & portable Niche is lightweight and folds down in seconds. Great for on the go or letting baby rest in bed.
It is important to know that hammocks are not advised to use unattended. This is because, like adult hammocks, they are intended for resting and relaxing.
I would not advise using a hammock as your baby’s sole sleeping space.
Pros:
Cons:
You can make our baby nap swing change into “Baby Cradle Mode” , “Baby Hammock Mode”, and “Toddler Chair Swing Mode” in 3 different modes by adjusting the rope knots. Multifunctional Baby hammock swing grow up with baby boys and girls up to 48 months.
Compared with the traditional hard plastic swing, canvas swing more soft and comfortable, we are also equipped with a removable one-piece cushion is very flexible and supportive.
The design mimics the feeling of being held to decrease pressure, increase airflow, and soothe. Great for baby relaxation and supervised nap time.
The inside of the cradle hammock is roomy, comfortable and has higher sides to help keep your baby safe. The rope and wood can hold up to 40lbs.
The mattress is breathable and is firm so that your baby will not get stuck and ensure the safety of the baby’s spine and head when lying down.
Designed with a ventilating mesh walls and a nylon bottom for easy clean up. Simply hand wash and wipe down with a damp cloth and soap to keep it fresh and sanitary.
Made with an all-steel frame and reinforced stitching. Includes safety-lock feature and meets all safety standard. Perfect for children 6-24 months.
A full-size play yard, the nest is spacious, safe and loaded with convenient features. It’s portable, stylish, stores compactly and ideal for play or sleep.
Its lightweight aluminum frame allows easy mobility. Set-up is easy and takes seconds, thanks to a quick fold mechanism and no tool assembly. It folds and stores compactly in the tote bag provided making it the ideal travel accessory.
I love that this play yard grows with your baby from the time they are brand new up into toddler hood.
It comes with a detachable bassinet, shade, and the play yard portion can be dropped down to accommodate their growth.
Make sure your little one is comfortable no matter where you go with the Graco Pack ‘n Play Play Yard. It’s perfect for travel with folding feet and wheels, allowing a 20% more compact fold, plus a durable and sturdy frame that can stand up to lots of on-the-go use.
The playpen’s signature Graco push-button fold allows you to break it down quickly and without hassle, and it fits easily into a convenient carrying bag for no-fuss travel or storage. At home or away, baby will be kept comfy and cozy.
Each culture has different sleeping arrangements for babies. Interestingly enough, in Finland, new parents receive packages called motherhood packages.
The cardboard box is filled with the essentials to survive having a newborn. Then, the box itself can be used as a bed for the baby for several months.
Although this may sound weird, Benjamin Spock recommended boxes when writing the book Baby and Child Care.
There are other options that you can use in a pinch for babies as well!
Although it may sound crazy, people do actually put their infants in dresser drawers. While this is not something I would advocate for, it can definitely work in a pinch.
I would only try this if your baby is a newborn-4 months old. This will vary greatly based on mobility.
Make sure that the baby isn’t laying directly on the wood and has something soft they are sleeping on.
If you are new to the world of crib alternatives, you may have some burning questions and I want to help answer those!
Co-sleeping is not recommended due to the risk of suffocation of the baby. If you do decide to co sleep, there are ways to make it more safe so here is what I recommend.
Remember, co-sleeping is not recommended, but following the guidelines listed above can make it safer.
Mini cribs, pack n play and bedside sleepers are great alternatives for small spaces. If you have a small space, I would suggest measuring the space you have for your baby’s sleeping arrangement and then decide what is best based on those measurements.
This really depends on your situation, but you have to remember that your baby is getting heavier and more mobile. Mini cribs aren’t always designed to hold the weight of a toddler.
You may consider looking at a pack n play or play yard.
Pack ‘n play and Montessori floor beds are great options for 1 year olds. I like that the pack n play has mesh sides that make it harder for your little dare devil to climb out.
Montessori floor beds are great for allowing you child to learn to lay down on their own and stay in bed.
Your choice will probably depend on the type of toddler you have. Some toddlers are not as ornery and curious as others.
Yes, you can use a playpen instead of a crib. My son would only sleep in a playpen for so long.
Some kiddos prefer a play pen over a crib!
Safe sleep is the top priority when it comes to infants. There are lots of options out there that meet the qualifications for a safe sleep space that aren’t regular cribs.
I love that there are tons of options for each family’s unique sleep situation. What are your favorite crib alternatives? Share with me in the comments below!
The post Crib Alternatives for Every Sleeping Style appeared first on Just Simply Mom.
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