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Cheat Sheet for Container Gardening
Posted by Laurie & Didi
If you are like me, you love to sit outside with friends and family and enjoy your outdoor spaces. One of the best ways to pretty up your porch or patio is with potted plants. But, if your gardening skills are like mine, you may not know how to create a beautiful collection of foliage and flowers.
Below are some tips and suggestions that I have cultivated from various sources on how to achieve great results with container gardening.
Choose the Right Container First
Make sure to pick the right vessel since, according to The Spruce, each type of container has pros and cons:
-
Clay or terracotta containers are attractive but breakable and easily damaged by freezing and thawing. In Northern areas, most need to be stored in a frost-free location to prevent cracking and are not suitable for hardy perennials or shrubs that will be kept outdoors year-round.
- Cast concrete is long-lasting and comes in a range of sizes and styles. These can be left outside in all weather. You can even make attractive ones yourself. Plain concrete containers are very heavy, so they are difficult to move and not suitable for using on decks or balconies. Concrete mixed with vermiculite or perlite, or concrete and fiberglass blends, are much lighter. For a lighter pot with a concrete look, go with hypertufa.
- Plastic and fiberglass pots and planters are lightweight, relatively inexpensive, and available in many sizes and shapes. Choose sturdy and somewhat flexible containers and avoid thin, stiff ones — they become brittle with cold or age.
- Containers made of polyurethane foam weigh up to 90% less than terracotta or concrete containers, yet they look remarkably like their much-heavier cousins. Polyurethane foam containers resist chipping and cracking and also insulate roots against both hot and cold temperatures, making them a good choice for potting plants that will stay outside year-round.
- Wood is natural-looking and protects roots from rapid temperature swings. You can build wooden planters yourself. Choose a naturally rot-resistant wood such as cedar or locust, or use pine treated with a preservative. (Don't use creosote, which is toxic to plants.) Molded wood-fiber containers are sturdy and inexpensive.
Drainage is Vital
Ensure your containers have the appropriate drainage because, states The Spruce, quite often too many garden pots that are sold simply don't have enough drainage. You can often increase drainage, by drilling, punching or carving bigger holes. However, sometimes it's just easier to buy a pot that does have enough drainage. The minimum size for a drainage hole is 1/2 inch in diameter for small or medium-sized pots. For larger sized containers, look for at least an inch in diameter.
It is a myth that by adding gravel, pot shards, or stones to the bottom of your container garden, you will increase drainage. Some people even say you don't need drainage holes if you put these things in the bottom of your pots. Unless you’re a really attentive container gardener, who can water perfectly, or you have a plant that likes wet soil (and there are some that do), you need holes in your pots -- preferably lots of them.
Deciding What to Plant
Sometimes the hardest part is deciding what you want to plant and what type of container to use. Good Housekeeping has the following recommendations:
• Use single, large containers for outdoor decoration, but also consider arranging groups of pots, both small and large, on stairways, terraces, or anywhere in the garden.
• Clusters of pots can contain a collection of favorite plants — hen-and-chicks or herbs used both for ornament and for cooking, for example — or they may feature annuals, dwarf evergreens, perennials, or any other plants you'd like to try.
• Houseplants summering outdoors in the shade also make a handsome addition to container gardening. Window boxes and hanging baskets offer even more ways to add instant color and appeal.
• One easy guideline for choosing the plants to combine in a container is to include "a thriller, a spiller, and a filler." That translates to at least one focal-point plant (the thriller), such as coleus or a geranium with multicolored leaves, for example, combined with several plants that spill over the edge of the pots — such as petunias, bacopa, creeping zinnias, or ornamental sweet potatoes. Finally, add the fillers, which are plants with smaller leaves and flowers that add color and fill in the arrangement all season long. Good fillers include salvias, verbenas, ornamental peppers, and wax begonias, as well as foliage plants like parsley or licorice plants. You may also want to include a plant for height, such as purple fountain grass. Add a trellis or pillar to a container and you can use a vine to add height to the composition. You'll need a total of five or six plants for an 18- or 24-inch container, for example
• The Spruce suggests that when you are choosing plants for your container make sure that they will play well together. This means that all the plants in one pot should all require the same amount of light and moisture. If you combine plants with different needs, some of them will not thrive. So, for example, if you have a plant that requires full sun, you want all the plants you choose for that pot to also require full sun. If you have a plant that likes to dry out between waterings, you don't want to put it in a pot with plants that like it wet. To find out what a plant requires, either check the plant tag or if there isn't one, ask a salesperson. If all else fails, try to look it up on the internet.
Planting your Containers
When it comes to planting the containers with your chosen plants, flowers and herbs, follow these steps, provided by KelloggGarden.com, when you are ready to plant:
1. Regardless of what you are planting (as stated earlier) you always want to make sure that there are enough holes in the bottom of the container to allow for proper drainage.
2. Next, fill your container with a high quality, organic potting mix. Then plant your transplants or seeds accordingly in your container.
3. Make sure your plants are secure and covered with enough soil to keep the roots fully covered.
4. You can also mix in an organic fertilizer at the time of planting transplants to replenish any nutrients they may have lost while planted in such a small container. You can mix in a granular fertilizer into the soil around the plant, and then water.
5. Fertilizing frequency depends on the type of plant you are growing. Plants, like tomatoes, tend to be heavy feeders, and naturally require more nutrients. Research how often you should be fertilizing your plant of choice.
6. Once your plants are nice and cozy in their container home, you’re finished! Make sure to water regularly and feed, according to schedule.
7. You’ll want to keep an eye on the roots in your container garden. Sometimes, a plant can outgrow the container in which they are planted. When this happens, they can become root-bound, which restricts the amount of nutrients the roots can absorb. You will know when this is happening, because the plant will easily slide out of the container, and the roots will be wound around each other very tightly. If your plant becomes root-bound, do not fret. Simply buy a larger container, and replant it in its new home.
Now you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the fruits, and flowers, of your labor.
Read more
If you are like me, you love to sit outside with friends and family and enjoy your outdoor spaces. One of the best ways to pretty up your porch or patio is with potted plants. But, if your gardening skills are like mine, you may not know how to create a beautiful collection of foliage and flowers.
Below are some tips and suggestions that I have cultivated from various sources on how to achieve great results with container gardening.
Choose the Right Container First
Make sure to pick the right vessel since, according to The Spruce, each type of container has pros and cons:
-
Clay or terracotta containers are attractive but breakable and easily damaged by freezing and thawing. In Northern areas, most need to be stored in a frost-free location to prevent cracking and are not suitable for hardy perennials or shrubs that will be kept outdoors year-round.
- Cast concrete is long-lasting and comes in a range of sizes and styles. These can be left outside in all weather. You can even make attractive ones yourself. Plain concrete containers are very heavy, so they are difficult to move and not suitable for using on decks or balconies. Concrete mixed with vermiculite or perlite, or concrete and fiberglass blends, are much lighter. For a lighter pot with a concrete look, go with hypertufa.
- Plastic and fiberglass pots and planters are lightweight, relatively inexpensive, and available in many sizes and shapes. Choose sturdy and somewhat flexible containers and avoid thin, stiff ones — they become brittle with cold or age.
- Containers made of polyurethane foam weigh up to 90% less than terracotta or concrete containers, yet they look remarkably like their much-heavier cousins. Polyurethane foam containers resist chipping and cracking and also insulate roots against both hot and cold temperatures, making them a good choice for potting plants that will stay outside year-round.
- Wood is natural-looking and protects roots from rapid temperature swings. You can build wooden planters yourself. Choose a naturally rot-resistant wood such as cedar or locust, or use pine treated with a preservative. (Don't use creosote, which is toxic to plants.) Molded wood-fiber containers are sturdy and inexpensive.
Drainage is Vital
Ensure your containers have the appropriate drainage because, states The Spruce, quite often too many garden pots that are sold simply don't have enough drainage. You can often increase drainage, by drilling, punching or carving bigger holes. However, sometimes it's just easier to buy a pot that does have enough drainage. The minimum size for a drainage hole is 1/2 inch in diameter for small or medium-sized pots. For larger sized containers, look for at least an inch in diameter.
It is a myth that by adding gravel, pot shards, or stones to the bottom of your container garden, you will increase drainage. Some people even say you don't need drainage holes if you put these things in the bottom of your pots. Unless you’re a really attentive container gardener, who can water perfectly, or you have a plant that likes wet soil (and there are some that do), you need holes in your pots -- preferably lots of them.
Deciding What to Plant
Sometimes the hardest part is deciding what you want to plant and what type of container to use. Good Housekeeping has the following recommendations:
• Use single, large containers for outdoor decoration, but also consider arranging groups of pots, both small and large, on stairways, terraces, or anywhere in the garden.
• Clusters of pots can contain a collection of favorite plants — hen-and-chicks or herbs used both for ornament and for cooking, for example — or they may feature annuals, dwarf evergreens, perennials, or any other plants you'd like to try.
• Houseplants summering outdoors in the shade also make a handsome addition to container gardening. Window boxes and hanging baskets offer even more ways to add instant color and appeal.
• One easy guideline for choosing the plants to combine in a container is to include "a thriller, a spiller, and a filler." That translates to at least one focal-point plant (the thriller), such as coleus or a geranium with multicolored leaves, for example, combined with several plants that spill over the edge of the pots — such as petunias, bacopa, creeping zinnias, or ornamental sweet potatoes. Finally, add the fillers, which are plants with smaller leaves and flowers that add color and fill in the arrangement all season long. Good fillers include salvias, verbenas, ornamental peppers, and wax begonias, as well as foliage plants like parsley or licorice plants. You may also want to include a plant for height, such as purple fountain grass. Add a trellis or pillar to a container and you can use a vine to add height to the composition. You'll need a total of five or six plants for an 18- or 24-inch container, for example
• The Spruce suggests that when you are choosing plants for your container make sure that they will play well together. This means that all the plants in one pot should all require the same amount of light and moisture. If you combine plants with different needs, some of them will not thrive. So, for example, if you have a plant that requires full sun, you want all the plants you choose for that pot to also require full sun. If you have a plant that likes to dry out between waterings, you don't want to put it in a pot with plants that like it wet. To find out what a plant requires, either check the plant tag or if there isn't one, ask a salesperson. If all else fails, try to look it up on the internet.
Planting your Containers
When it comes to planting the containers with your chosen plants, flowers and herbs, follow these steps, provided by KelloggGarden.com, when you are ready to plant:
1. Regardless of what you are planting (as stated earlier) you always want to make sure that there are enough holes in the bottom of the container to allow for proper drainage.
2. Next, fill your container with a high quality, organic potting mix. Then plant your transplants or seeds accordingly in your container.
3. Make sure your plants are secure and covered with enough soil to keep the roots fully covered.
4. You can also mix in an organic fertilizer at the time of planting transplants to replenish any nutrients they may have lost while planted in such a small container. You can mix in a granular fertilizer into the soil around the plant, and then water.
5. Fertilizing frequency depends on the type of plant you are growing. Plants, like tomatoes, tend to be heavy feeders, and naturally require more nutrients. Research how often you should be fertilizing your plant of choice.
6. Once your plants are nice and cozy in their container home, you’re finished! Make sure to water regularly and feed, according to schedule.
7. You’ll want to keep an eye on the roots in your container garden. Sometimes, a plant can outgrow the container in which they are planted. When this happens, they can become root-bound, which restricts the amount of nutrients the roots can absorb. You will know when this is happening, because the plant will easily slide out of the container, and the roots will be wound around each other very tightly. If your plant becomes root-bound, do not fret. Simply buy a larger container, and replant it in its new home.
Now you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the fruits, and flowers, of your labor.
Read more
Spring Cleaning Tips to Make Your Kitchen Shine.
Posted by Laurie & Didi
The days are getting longer, the grass is getting greener, the flowers are beginning to peek above the ground and the birds are chirping, yes, spring has sprung! After what seems like an awfully long winter, my favorite season of the year is upon us. What better time than now to get tackle the infamous Spring Cleaning. Given the unprecedented events of the past year, I bet you, like me, have been spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
Below are some of ftw’s favorite tips for getting your kitchen ready for all those guests that all of us have been eagerly waiting to invite into our homes once again.
Sanitize The Sink
Fill your sink with hot soapy water and pour in 1 cup bleach. Let stand for about an hour, then empty and scrub clean using a paste made from water and baking soda. Rinse well. This freshens the garbage disposal as well.
Scrub the Stovetop
Using a dry cloth try to remove any big debris. If you find yourself in a battle with something really stuck on there, you can attempt to remove it with something firm, yet soft – such as a soft spatula or your fingernails through a rag or paper towel. The biggest thing you’ll want to avoid is anything metal or abrasive that could scratch your glass. Sprinkle baking soda across the glass. Give it a decent coat.
In a large bow or sink, mix up some sudsy hot water with your dish soap. The water shouldn’t be too hot that it burns your hands. Dip the rag or towel into the water and give it a wring. Spread out the cloth directly onto the baking soda. You may have to repeat this step depending on the size of the towel you’re using to make sure you cover the stove top’s entire surface area.
Let the warm, sudsy towel create a steam bath for the baking soda. All you have to do is let it sit and do its magic for 20-30 minutes. Then use that same rag to wipe off the baking soda. Follow that up with a dry wipe. Underneath, you should see a clean, sparkling glass stovetop. Rinse and repeat.
Self Clean the Oven
Use your appliance's self-cleaning function to remove stubborn, baked-on grime. If your oven doesn't have one, place a hot, wet cloth on top of burned spots to help soften the gunk. Then scrub with a sprinkle of baking powder and a heavy duty pad. Rinse and wipe dry.
Wipeout the Microwave
If your microwave has stains and residue buildup, lemons can help give this workhorse kitchen appliance a thorough cleaning. In a bowl, combine one cup of water, one cup of vinegar, and two tablespoons of lemon juice. Place the bowl in the center of an empty microwave and set on high for two minutes. Wipe down with a damp cloth.
Disinfect Your Knife Block
The best way to prevent bacteria growth within your knife block is to thoroughly clean and dry knives before returning to storage, but it's also a good idea to do a more vigorous cleaning once a year. For a deep clean, submerge the knife block in a mixture of one gallon of lukewarm water and one tablespoon of household bleach. Let the wooden block soak in the mixture for two minutes, then turn upside-down onto a dry towel to air dry completely.
Deodorize the Dishwasher
Even appliances that exist to clean other items in your home need their own cleaning from time to time, particularly if you have hard water, which can cause calcium buildup. To give your dishwasher a refresh, dump a couple of cups of white vinegar or in the machine and run a hot cycle. Also, according to Molly Maids, if there’s a funky smell permeating your plates, run a normal cycle with detergent plus two cups of vinegar added to the base. This does more than make the appliance sparkle; it keeps things running smoothly and extends the life of your dishwasher.
Deep Clean Your Coffee Maker
A basic drugstore item can give your dutiful coffee machine a heavy clean. Fill the back of the auto-drip tank with warm water, then drop two denture tablets into the liquid and let them fully dissolve, says Leanne Stapf with The Cleaning Authority. Run the coffee pot through a regular cycle, then repeat the entire cycle using just warm water.
Cleanse the Countertops
Dig out the granite or quartz polish to restore shine and help repel stains on your kitchen surfaces. For daily wipe-downs, use a specialized cleaner. The mild formula cuts grease and removes surface stains without the damaging effects of vinegar or ammonia, and it won’t leave behind a dull film like ordinary dish soap can.
Freshen Up the Fridge
If your fridge is in need of a serious scrub, first unplug. This will help to conserve energy. Keeping the door open while you try to clean stubborn spills will raise the temperature and make your refrigerator work harder to keep your food cold. Take everything out of the refrigerator, toss any expired or spoiled items. Pull out all of your fridge's interior shelving and wash them with warm soapy water. Wipe down the surfaces that can't be removed on the inside with a sponge and a multipurpose cleaner or a homemade vinegar solution, then dry off the interior, paying special attention to the shelf seams and the rubber door seal before putting shelves back in their place.
Clean and replace all of the food. Wipe down all of the bottles, jars, containers and lids and put back while organizing them as you like. Gently wipe down the exterior of your fridge with a damp cloth, then polish with a dry microfiber towel. If you have stainless steel make sure to dry in the direction of the grain to prevent streaking. Use glass cleaner or stainless steel cleaner for extra shine.
Defrost the Freezer
The home cleaning pros at Cleaning Exec shared their speedy, five-step process for defrosting your freezer:
- Unplug your fridge or freezer unit and remove all frozen foods.
- Line the bottom of the freezer with paper towels.
- Fill a bowl or two with boiling hot water and place them on top of the paper towels.
- Close the freezer door. The steam from the bowls will melt the frost. And in case you’re wondering, the paper towels will absorb the wetness.
- Wipe the freezer down with a sponge and some all-purpose cleaner.
- Dry with a soft towel or microfiber cloth.
Cleanse the Cutting Boards
If you think that nasty mark is permanent, you're wrong. Run the cut side of a lemon over the board to help remove food stains and smells. For an extra oomph, sprinkle it with salt or baking soda first.
Tidy Up the Tiles
Marty Hoffman, of Hoffman Brothers Floors, suggests cleaning kitchen tiles with a cleaner that has "neutral pH" on the label. You can also mix baking soda and water for a homemade cleaner: Pour 1/2 cup baking soda into 2 gallons water and mix very well. Then apply the liquid with a string mop or sponge mop. For grout, use the same baking soda and water mixture, but for tough stains, call in the pros.
Dust Door Frames and Kitchen Cabinets
Use disinfecting wipes to clean the tops of door frames, around the knobs, and on kitchen cabinets that have gathered dust and fingerprints. Wipe your switch plates while you're at it since they get a lot of use.
Sanitize Your Mop
Start by rinsing the mop until the water runs clear, instructs Julie Bradshaw from Super Maids, Then, place the mop into a bucket filled with 1-2 gallons of water, followed by a cup of vinegar. After letting it soak for 15 minutes, rinse with water again and air dry.
Bang Out Your Broom
You can get most of the debris from your broom by whacking it against a tree, a wall or a large boulder. Afterward, soak the broom in a bucket loaded with warm, soapy water for 30 minutes. Then rinse it off and dry with a cloth, or place it bristles-up in the shower.
Whew! That is a lot of work, but the payoff of a shiny, clean kitchen makes it worthwhile. Now sit back, put your feet up, listen to the birds sing, watch the grass grow, be amazed by the beauty of the daffodils and relax. You deserve it!
Information gathered from: Goodhousekeeping.com, Oprahmag.com, housebeautiful.com, Lazy Susans Cleaning Service, MarthaStewart.com. Wusthoff, Super Maids, Maids by Trade, Hoffman Brothers Floors, Cleaning Exec, The Cleaning Authority, Homemadesimple.com, and Molly Maid
Read more
The days are getting longer, the grass is getting greener, the flowers are beginning to peek above the ground and the birds are chirping, yes, spring has sprung! After what seems like an awfully long winter, my favorite season of the year is upon us. What better time than now to get tackle the infamous Spring Cleaning. Given the unprecedented events of the past year, I bet you, like me, have been spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
Below are some of ftw’s favorite tips for getting your kitchen ready for all those guests that all of us have been eagerly waiting to invite into our homes once again.
Sanitize The Sink
Fill your sink with hot soapy water and pour in 1 cup bleach. Let stand for about an hour, then empty and scrub clean using a paste made from water and baking soda. Rinse well. This freshens the garbage disposal as well.
Scrub the Stovetop
Using a dry cloth try to remove any big debris. If you find yourself in a battle with something really stuck on there, you can attempt to remove it with something firm, yet soft – such as a soft spatula or your fingernails through a rag or paper towel. The biggest thing you’ll want to avoid is anything metal or abrasive that could scratch your glass. Sprinkle baking soda across the glass. Give it a decent coat.
In a large bow or sink, mix up some sudsy hot water with your dish soap. The water shouldn’t be too hot that it burns your hands. Dip the rag or towel into the water and give it a wring. Spread out the cloth directly onto the baking soda. You may have to repeat this step depending on the size of the towel you’re using to make sure you cover the stove top’s entire surface area.
Let the warm, sudsy towel create a steam bath for the baking soda. All you have to do is let it sit and do its magic for 20-30 minutes. Then use that same rag to wipe off the baking soda. Follow that up with a dry wipe. Underneath, you should see a clean, sparkling glass stovetop. Rinse and repeat.
Self Clean the Oven
Use your appliance's self-cleaning function to remove stubborn, baked-on grime. If your oven doesn't have one, place a hot, wet cloth on top of burned spots to help soften the gunk. Then scrub with a sprinkle of baking powder and a heavy duty pad. Rinse and wipe dry.
Wipeout the Microwave
If your microwave has stains and residue buildup, lemons can help give this workhorse kitchen appliance a thorough cleaning. In a bowl, combine one cup of water, one cup of vinegar, and two tablespoons of lemon juice. Place the bowl in the center of an empty microwave and set on high for two minutes. Wipe down with a damp cloth.
Disinfect Your Knife Block
The best way to prevent bacteria growth within your knife block is to thoroughly clean and dry knives before returning to storage, but it's also a good idea to do a more vigorous cleaning once a year. For a deep clean, submerge the knife block in a mixture of one gallon of lukewarm water and one tablespoon of household bleach. Let the wooden block soak in the mixture for two minutes, then turn upside-down onto a dry towel to air dry completely.
Deodorize the Dishwasher
Even appliances that exist to clean other items in your home need their own cleaning from time to time, particularly if you have hard water, which can cause calcium buildup. To give your dishwasher a refresh, dump a couple of cups of white vinegar or in the machine and run a hot cycle. Also, according to Molly Maids, if there’s a funky smell permeating your plates, run a normal cycle with detergent plus two cups of vinegar added to the base. This does more than make the appliance sparkle; it keeps things running smoothly and extends the life of your dishwasher.
Deep Clean Your Coffee Maker
A basic drugstore item can give your dutiful coffee machine a heavy clean. Fill the back of the auto-drip tank with warm water, then drop two denture tablets into the liquid and let them fully dissolve, says Leanne Stapf with The Cleaning Authority. Run the coffee pot through a regular cycle, then repeat the entire cycle using just warm water.
Cleanse the Countertops
Dig out the granite or quartz polish to restore shine and help repel stains on your kitchen surfaces. For daily wipe-downs, use a specialized cleaner. The mild formula cuts grease and removes surface stains without the damaging effects of vinegar or ammonia, and it won’t leave behind a dull film like ordinary dish soap can.
Freshen Up the Fridge
If your fridge is in need of a serious scrub, first unplug. This will help to conserve energy. Keeping the door open while you try to clean stubborn spills will raise the temperature and make your refrigerator work harder to keep your food cold. Take everything out of the refrigerator, toss any expired or spoiled items. Pull out all of your fridge's interior shelving and wash them with warm soapy water. Wipe down the surfaces that can't be removed on the inside with a sponge and a multipurpose cleaner or a homemade vinegar solution, then dry off the interior, paying special attention to the shelf seams and the rubber door seal before putting shelves back in their place.
Clean and replace all of the food. Wipe down all of the bottles, jars, containers and lids and put back while organizing them as you like. Gently wipe down the exterior of your fridge with a damp cloth, then polish with a dry microfiber towel. If you have stainless steel make sure to dry in the direction of the grain to prevent streaking. Use glass cleaner or stainless steel cleaner for extra shine.
Defrost the Freezer
The home cleaning pros at Cleaning Exec shared their speedy, five-step process for defrosting your freezer:
- Unplug your fridge or freezer unit and remove all frozen foods.
- Line the bottom of the freezer with paper towels.
- Fill a bowl or two with boiling hot water and place them on top of the paper towels.
- Close the freezer door. The steam from the bowls will melt the frost. And in case you’re wondering, the paper towels will absorb the wetness.
- Wipe the freezer down with a sponge and some all-purpose cleaner.
- Dry with a soft towel or microfiber cloth.
Cleanse the Cutting Boards
If you think that nasty mark is permanent, you're wrong. Run the cut side of a lemon over the board to help remove food stains and smells. For an extra oomph, sprinkle it with salt or baking soda first.
Tidy Up the Tiles
Marty Hoffman, of Hoffman Brothers Floors, suggests cleaning kitchen tiles with a cleaner that has "neutral pH" on the label. You can also mix baking soda and water for a homemade cleaner: Pour 1/2 cup baking soda into 2 gallons water and mix very well. Then apply the liquid with a string mop or sponge mop. For grout, use the same baking soda and water mixture, but for tough stains, call in the pros.
Dust Door Frames and Kitchen Cabinets
Use disinfecting wipes to clean the tops of door frames, around the knobs, and on kitchen cabinets that have gathered dust and fingerprints. Wipe your switch plates while you're at it since they get a lot of use.
Sanitize Your Mop
Start by rinsing the mop until the water runs clear, instructs Julie Bradshaw from Super Maids, Then, place the mop into a bucket filled with 1-2 gallons of water, followed by a cup of vinegar. After letting it soak for 15 minutes, rinse with water again and air dry.
Bang Out Your Broom
You can get most of the debris from your broom by whacking it against a tree, a wall or a large boulder. Afterward, soak the broom in a bucket loaded with warm, soapy water for 30 minutes. Then rinse it off and dry with a cloth, or place it bristles-up in the shower.
Whew! That is a lot of work, but the payoff of a shiny, clean kitchen makes it worthwhile. Now sit back, put your feet up, listen to the birds sing, watch the grass grow, be amazed by the beauty of the daffodils and relax. You deserve it!
Information gathered from: Goodhousekeeping.com, Oprahmag.com, housebeautiful.com, Lazy Susans Cleaning Service, MarthaStewart.com. Wusthoff, Super Maids, Maids by Trade, Hoffman Brothers Floors, Cleaning Exec, The Cleaning Authority, Homemadesimple.com, and Molly Maid
Read more
What makes Turkish Towels so special?
Posted by Laurie & Didi
Super soft, super absorbent, super light and super quick to dry. That’s what makes the Turkish Towel so special.Turkish towels are the perfect towel for the bathroom, the pool, the beach, travel, really everywhere!
Turkish towels, also known as Peshtemal towels in Turkey and Fouta towels in North Africa, originated in the city of Bursa, in the 1600s and were traditionally used in Turkish Baths according to most historians. Sultans of the Ottoman dynasty, who ruled Turkey at this time, as well as all subjects of the empire would use these special towels in the hammam (Turkish Bath) and in their everyday lives. According to the ancient Ottoman traditions, when a couple decided to marry, they would give each other a bath set, with these towels being the central piece.
Turkish towels are large flat-woven towels made from Turkish Cotton; a premium cotton that has extra-long fibers. Because of this unique material, the towels are known to become even softer, fluffier, and more absorbent with successive washings. Turkish towels are also thin, so they dry much quicker than a normal cotton terry towel. Even though they are larger in size, typically 80 by 40 inches, they are very compact. Compared to a thick terry cloth towel, Turkish towels take up much less space when folded.
Turkish cotton is similar to Egyptian cotton. Both have extra-long fibers that result in stronger, smoother cotton threads and minimal areas where fibers are joined. Egyptian cotton towels are known for their exceptional absorbency. However, the more absorbent it is, the wetter the towel can stay after use. Towels that are too absorbent may stay damp longer in humid climates. Turkish cotton towels are highly absorbent, but they’re also efficient when it comes to drying out.
Because Turkish towels are strong, compact, lightweight and dry quickly, they are great for travel. They pack easily and they can be used in many ways: as a throw to keep you warm on the plane, to lay on at on the beach, as a picnic blanket, over the stroller to keep the sun off of baby’s eyes, and of course, as a towel to dry you off!
When purchasing these amazing textiles, look for Turkish towels that are hand-loomed in Turkey. Also, make sure that they are made from 100% First Grade, Organic Turkish Cotton. Turkey leads the world in organic cotton production, over 40% of the organic cotton from all around the globe is grown on Turkish farms. This cotton is produced without the use of toxic pesticides and fertilizers. Most often, it is harvested completely by hand reducing its carbon footprint since no heavy machinery is used. Additionally, Organic Turkish Cotton utilizes 91% less water than conventional cotton in the growing process; making it healthier for you, the farmers who produce it, and the environment.
Below are some of our favorite quick tips, gathered from Enchanted Home, on how to care for your Turkish Towels:
- Soak them in cold water in a tub or a sink for about 12 hours before washing or using, This will make your towels more absorbent because the fibers will be allowed to bloom and expand.
- Wring the towel out and let it hang to dry completely after the first soak and before the first wash
- After the initial soak, you can just wash your Turkish towels using the normal washing and care process for Turkish cotton, but never use bleach or fabric softener because the chemical will make the towels less absorbent.
- While you can machine dry your Turkish towels (on a gentle cycle set to low or medium heat) it is much more preferable to hang dry your towels. This helps preserve the towel and encourages the softness, fluffiness, and absorbency to continue to grow.
- Cutback on detergent because the soapy residue that builds up can make your Turkish cotton towels start to feel stiff. By using a little less detergent it’ll make it easier for your washing machine to get out those last bits of soap.
- Use a cup of white vinegar every six weeks or so you’ll remove all the residue from your towel and restore them to full softness and absorbency.
Turkish towels are not fast fashion, rather they are an artisan crafted textile. They are soft, absorbent, compact, light-weight, and environmentally friendly, but best of all, they are beautiful to the eye and to the touch. There are so many colors and pattern to choose from, you are only limited by your own aesthetic. The Turkish towel is special in every way!
Information gathered from: Loom.ist, Apartment Therapy.com, Anatolico.com, Pottery Barn, thebalimarket.com, Enchantedhome.com and redlandcotton.com
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Super soft, super absorbent, super light and super quick to dry. That’s what makes the Turkish Towel so special.Turkish towels are the perfect towel for the bathroom, the pool, the beach, travel, really everywhere!
Turkish towels, also known as Peshtemal towels in Turkey and Fouta towels in North Africa, originated in the city of Bursa, in the 1600s and were traditionally used in Turkish Baths according to most historians. Sultans of the Ottoman dynasty, who ruled Turkey at this time, as well as all subjects of the empire would use these special towels in the hammam (Turkish Bath) and in their everyday lives. According to the ancient Ottoman traditions, when a couple decided to marry, they would give each other a bath set, with these towels being the central piece.
Turkish towels are large flat-woven towels made from Turkish Cotton; a premium cotton that has extra-long fibers. Because of this unique material, the towels are known to become even softer, fluffier, and more absorbent with successive washings. Turkish towels are also thin, so they dry much quicker than a normal cotton terry towel. Even though they are larger in size, typically 80 by 40 inches, they are very compact. Compared to a thick terry cloth towel, Turkish towels take up much less space when folded.
Turkish cotton is similar to Egyptian cotton. Both have extra-long fibers that result in stronger, smoother cotton threads and minimal areas where fibers are joined. Egyptian cotton towels are known for their exceptional absorbency. However, the more absorbent it is, the wetter the towel can stay after use. Towels that are too absorbent may stay damp longer in humid climates. Turkish cotton towels are highly absorbent, but they’re also efficient when it comes to drying out.
Because Turkish towels are strong, compact, lightweight and dry quickly, they are great for travel. They pack easily and they can be used in many ways: as a throw to keep you warm on the plane, to lay on at on the beach, as a picnic blanket, over the stroller to keep the sun off of baby’s eyes, and of course, as a towel to dry you off!
When purchasing these amazing textiles, look for Turkish towels that are hand-loomed in Turkey. Also, make sure that they are made from 100% First Grade, Organic Turkish Cotton. Turkey leads the world in organic cotton production, over 40% of the organic cotton from all around the globe is grown on Turkish farms. This cotton is produced without the use of toxic pesticides and fertilizers. Most often, it is harvested completely by hand reducing its carbon footprint since no heavy machinery is used. Additionally, Organic Turkish Cotton utilizes 91% less water than conventional cotton in the growing process; making it healthier for you, the farmers who produce it, and the environment.
Below are some of our favorite quick tips, gathered from Enchanted Home, on how to care for your Turkish Towels:
- Soak them in cold water in a tub or a sink for about 12 hours before washing or using, This will make your towels more absorbent because the fibers will be allowed to bloom and expand.
- Wring the towel out and let it hang to dry completely after the first soak and before the first wash
- After the initial soak, you can just wash your Turkish towels using the normal washing and care process for Turkish cotton, but never use bleach or fabric softener because the chemical will make the towels less absorbent.
- While you can machine dry your Turkish towels (on a gentle cycle set to low or medium heat) it is much more preferable to hang dry your towels. This helps preserve the towel and encourages the softness, fluffiness, and absorbency to continue to grow.
- Cutback on detergent because the soapy residue that builds up can make your Turkish cotton towels start to feel stiff. By using a little less detergent it’ll make it easier for your washing machine to get out those last bits of soap.
- Use a cup of white vinegar every six weeks or so you’ll remove all the residue from your towel and restore them to full softness and absorbency.
Turkish towels are not fast fashion, rather they are an artisan crafted textile. They are soft, absorbent, compact, light-weight, and environmentally friendly, but best of all, they are beautiful to the eye and to the touch. There are so many colors and pattern to choose from, you are only limited by your own aesthetic. The Turkish towel is special in every way!
Information gathered from: Loom.ist, Apartment Therapy.com, Anatolico.com, Pottery Barn, thebalimarket.com, Enchantedhome.com and redlandcotton.com
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Easy, Breezy Brunch Hosting Ideas
Posted by Laurie & Didi
It may not seem like it now, but the time will come when we can once again get together with family and friends. One of our favorite ways to get together is over brunch. We have put together some ideas and tips to help you make the most of your time and enjoy your company.
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Brands We Love
Posted by Laurie & Didi
One of our main focuses at ftw supply shop is to find quality products that are sourced from companies and artisans that support fair-trade, are globally inspired or locally produced, women, indigenous, or minority owned, handmade or crafted with local materials and time-honored skills, and that use sustainable practices and materials. We love all of our suppliers and we wanted to share a bit of additional information on some of our favorites.
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One of our main focuses at ftw supply shop is to find quality products that are sourced from companies and artisans that support fair-trade, are globally inspired or locally produced, women, indigenous, or minority owned, handmade or crafted with local materials and time-honored skills, and that use sustainable practices and materials. We love all of our suppliers and we wanted to share a bit of additional information on some of our favorites.
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