Category Home & Kitchen

To declutter your home fast, work one room at a time. Sort items into keep, donate, sell and trash piles. Start with easy spaces like the entryway or kitchen counters. Set a timer for 15 minutes so the job feels…

To clean your oven naturally, mix baking soda and water into a thick paste. Spread it inside the cold oven. Let it sit for at least 12 hours or overnight. Then spray with vinegar, wipe away the grime with a…

To clean your microwave fast, fill a bowl with 1 cup of water and lemon slices or vinegar. Heat it on high for 3 to 5 minutes, then let it sit with the door closed for 2 minutes. The steam…

To clean cast iron, rinse it with hot water while warm and scrub with a brush. A little mild soap is fine. Dry it completely on the stove, then rub a thin layer of oil inside. Cast iron lasts for…

To clean a washing machine, run an empty hot cycle with two cups of white vinegar. Then run a second hot cycle with half a cup of baking soda. Wipe the door seal, detergent drawer and drum with a damp…

A holiday simmer pot is a simple way to make your home smell cozy without candles or sprays. Fill a pot with water, orange slices, cranberries, cinnamon sticks, cloves and a sprig of pine. Simmer it on low and add…

To keep your home safe from fire during the holidays, never leave cooking, candles or space heaters unattended. Water your Christmas tree daily and keep it at least 3 feet from heat sources. Check light strands for damage, and test…

You can decorate for the holidays on a budget with what you already own. Add free natural items like pinecones, and make simple crafts. Shop after-holiday sales for next year, and spend on one or two focal pieces instead of…

To lower your heating bill, turn the thermostat down 7 to 10 degrees for 8 hours a day. That simple change can cut heating costs by up to 10 percent a year. Sealing drafts and servicing your furnace can save…