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Types of Cabinet Hinges: A Comprehensive Guide for Choosing the Right Hinges

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

Types of Cabinet Hinges: A Comprehensive Guide

What are Cabinet Hinges?

Cabinet hinges are essential hardware components that support cabinet doors and allow them to open and close smoothly. They play a crucial role in determining the aesthetics and functionality of your cabinetry.

Types of Cabinet Hinges

There are various types of cabinet hinges available, each designed for specific applications. Here are the most common types:

1. Surface Mount Hinges

  • Best for: Partial or full overlay cabinet doors on face frame cabinets
  • Features: Mount on the exterior of the cabinet frame and door, making them visible from the outside
  • Pros: Enhance aesthetics with attractive designs, easy to install
  • Cons: Not suitable for concealed hinge applications

2. Semi-Concealed Hinges

  • Best for: Partial or full overlay doors on face frame cabinets
  • Features: Partially concealed behind the cabinet door when closed, with a small portion visible on the frame or door edge
  • Pros: Add a touch of color or accent to cabinetry, enhance aesthetics
  • Cons: Not fully concealed

3. Butt Hinges

  • Best for: Inset cabinet doors on face frame or frameless cabinets
  • Features: Traditional design with two rectangular mounting plates and a central barrel
  • Pros: Durable, easy to install, suitable for frameless cabinets
  • Cons: Require cutting a recess (mortise) for inset cabinet doors

4. Inset Hinges

  • Best for: Inset cabinet doors on frameless cabinets
  • Features: Designed for doors that sit flush with the cabinet box, fully concealed when closed
  • Pros: Hinge-free appearance, clean lines
  • Cons: Can be more difficult to install than other hinge types

5. Partial Overlay Hinges

  • Best for: Partial overlay cabinet doors on frameless cabinets
  • Features: Mount on the inside of the cabinet and back of the door, leaving the barrel exposed when closed
  • Pros: Accentuate cabinetry aesthetics, easy to open without handles
  • Cons: Not suitable for concealed applications

6. Full Overlay Hinges

  • Best for: Full overlay cabinet doors on frameless cabinets
  • Features: Allow doors to close fully without exposing the frame, sit slightly out from the cabinet face
  • Pros: Concealed functionality, easy to open
  • Cons: Require precise installation

7. Flush Hinges

  • Best for: Narrow spacing, slim cabinet door gaps, concealed installation
  • Features: Slimmer profile than butt hinges, reduce the gap between door and cabinet box
  • Pros: Concealed installation, ideal for doors that cannot be cut for mortises
  • Cons: Less durable than other hinge types

8. Wrap Around Hinges

  • Best for: Heavy-duty support on frameless cabinets with partial or full overlay doors
  • Features: Wrap around the inside edge of the frame, distributing door weight over a larger area
  • Pros: Enhanced strength, suitable for heavy doors
  • Cons: Can be more visible than other hinge types

9. T-Style Hinges

  • Best for: Rustic aesthetic, heavy-duty support on cabinet doors
  • Features: Classic design, typically mounted on the exterior of the cabinet box and front of the door
  • Pros: Rustic aesthetics, easy to install, durable
  • Cons: Not as commonly used as other hinge types

10. Butterfly Hinges

  • Best for: Vintage decorative aesthetic, easy installation
  • Features: Shaped like butterflies, mount on the exterior of the cabinet box and front of the door
  • Pros: Unique aesthetic appeal, easy to install
  • Cons: Not suitable for inset cabinet doors

Choosing Cabinet Hinges

Selecting the right cabinet hinges depends on several factors:

  • Cabinet Type: Face frame or frameless
  • Door Type: Inset, full overlay, or partial overlay
  • Desired Aesthetics: Concealed or exposed hinges, finish options
  • Functional Features: Soft-close or self-close mechanisms

By considering these factors, you can choose the optimal cabinet hinges to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your cabinetry.

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Home and Garden

Running Electrical Wires in a Finished Wall: A Comprehensive DIY Guide

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

Running Electrical Wires in a Finished Wall: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding the Challenges

Adding or extending electrical circuits in finished walls can be a challenging task, especially for DIYers. Unlike unfinished basements or attics, where running cables is relatively straightforward, navigating finished walls requires a different approach. The key lies in avoiding damage to the walls and minimizing the need for major renovations.

Planning and Preparation

Before embarking on this project, it’s crucial to plan the cable routes and box locations carefully. Utilize a stud finder to locate the wall studs, ensuring that the electrical boxes are positioned between them. Outline the box openings on the wall, considering the desired height and alignment with existing outlets.

Cutting Box Openings

With the box locations marked, use a drywall saw or jigsaw to cut out the openings along the outlines. Exercise caution to avoid cutting into existing electrical wires, plumbing pipes, or other mechanicals. Ensure that the cutouts precisely fit the electrical boxes.

Drilling Holes in the Wall Plate

Once the box holes are cut, drill access holes in the wall plate at the bottom or top of the stud cavity. These holes will serve as entry points for fishing the cable into the basement, crawlspace, or attic. Insert a spade bit or auger bit into a flexible bit extension and drill through the wall plate into the desired cavity.

Locating the Drilled Hole

If your home has a crawlspace or low attic, finding the drilled hole in the wall plate can be challenging. Insert a long wire, such as a straightened coat hanger, through the hole and locate it in the attic or crawlspace.

Threading the Fish Tape

Unwind the end of an electrician’s fish tape and insert it through the drilled hole in the wall plate. Extend the blade of the fish tape until it is visible in the wall box opening, ideally protruding through the drywall hole.

Attaching the Cable to the Fish Tape

Uncoil the NM cable and strip about 6 inches of outer sheathing from one end. Hook the conducting wires and bare copper grounding wire through the loop at the end of the fish tape blade. Bend the wires over and wrap them securely with electrical tape to create a smooth head that will easily slide through the wall plate hole.

Fishing the Cable

From the attic or basement, pull steadily on the fish tape while your helper feeds the cable into the wall opening. Finesse is required as the tip of the fish tape blade passes through the drilled hole. Pull in short intervals to ensure the cable is being pulled simultaneously from both ends.

Completing the Cable Run

Run the free end of the cable to the next stud cavity location, securing it with approved methods such as drilling holes through joists or stapling the cable where necessary. Strip the end of the sheathing, attach the wires to the fish tape, and pull the cable through the wall plate and out the next wall box opening.

Additional Tips

  • For switch locations, you may encounter fire blocks that obstruct the stud cavity. Cut an access hole in the drywall to drill through the fire block.
  • Consider using cable lube to reduce friction and prevent tearing the sheathing.
  • You can also use a string and a small weight to fish the wire instead of a fish tape.

Safety Precautions

Remember to consult local codes for requirements on running cable. Observe safety precautions, such as drilling holes through joists rather than stapling the cable to the face of the joists in exposed locations. Ensure the wire gauge is appropriate for the amperage of the circuit and consider arc-fault protection if required by code.

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Home and Garden

Double Sink Plumbing Installation: A Comprehensive Guide for DIYers

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

Double Sink Plumbing: A Step-by-Step Installation Guide for Intermediate DIYers

Understanding the Plumbing Configuration

Double-basin sinks require a slightly different plumbing setup compared to single-basin sinks. Instead of a direct connection from the sink tailpiece to the P-trap drain, each sink in a double-basin setup connects to a sanitary tee, which then joins the P-trap drain. This configuration allows waste from both sinks to flow into a single drainage line.

Materials and Tools You’ll Need

  • Double sink
  • Compression nuts and washers
  • Plumber’s putty or silicone caulk
  • Sanitary tee
  • PVC pipe
  • Teflon tape or silicone sealant
  • Kitchen drain trap kit
  • Sink drain and strainer assembly
  • Faucet
  • Tape measure
  • Hacksaw
  • PVC pipe cutter
  • Channel locks
  • Marker
  • Caulking gun
  • Screwdriver

Step-by-Step Installation Instructions

1. Install Sink Strainers

Apply plumber’s putty or silicone caulk to the underside of the basket strainer and insert it into the drain hole in the sink. Tighten the strainer nut from below to secure it. Repeat for the second sink.

2. Put the Sink in Place

Apply plumber’s putty or caulk to the countertop around the sink hole. For drop-in sinks, the sink edges should rest on top of the counter, while undermount sinks need to be secured with heavy-duty clips and adhesive.

3. Measure the Drain Outlet Height

Measure the height of the drain outlet pipe with a tape measure. It should be high enough for the P-trap but low enough for the drain tailpieces and sanitary tee to connect. If adjustment is needed, contact a plumber.

4. Connect the Drain Tailpieces

Cut the drain tailpieces to the desired length and connect them to the basket strainers with slip-on compression nuts. Tighten the nuts using channel locks.

5. Add in the Sanitary Tee

Install the sanitary tee either in line with one sink or in the middle of both sinks. Connect the drain tailpieces to the sanitary tee using compression nuts.

6. Install the Drain Trap

Connect the sanitary tee to the U-shaped trap, then the U-shaped trap to the J-shaped trap. The tail-end of the J-shaped trap connects to the drain outlet pipe.

7. Mount the Faucet

Thread the faucet mounting bracket and water lines through the countertop and secure the faucet with nuts.

8. Connect the Hot and Cold Water Lines

Connect the faucet water lines to the corresponding hot and cold water pipes under the sink.

9. Check for Leaks

Turn on the isolation valves and check for leaks. Open the faucet to release any air and inspect all components thoroughly, including the drain lines, water lines, P-trap, sanitary tee, and sink edges.

Tips for Troubleshooting

  • If you encounter leaks after installation, check the tightness of all compression nuts and connections.
  • If the drain is slow or clogged, remove the P-trap and check for debris.
  • For major leaks or complex issues, do not hesitate to contact a professional plumber.
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Home and Garden

DIY Fly Trap: A Simple and Eco-Friendly Solution for Pesky Houseflies

by Peter
written by Peter

How to Craft an Effective Fly Trap from an Empty Soda Bottle

Natural Solutions to Eradicate Pesky Houseflies

Houseflies, with their persistent buzzing and unhygienic presence, can become an unwelcome nuisance in any household. Fortunately, you can combat this issue with a simple and eco-friendly solution: a homemade fly trap crafted from an empty soda bottle.

The Science Behind the Trap

Flies are attracted to sweet scents and decaying organic matter. By utilizing these factors, the soda bottle trap effectively lures flies into its confines. Once inside, the sticky or slippery bait prevents them from escaping, leading to their demise.

Bait Options to Entice Flies

The key to a successful fly trap lies in selecting the right bait. Here are some effective options:

  • Fruit-scented dish soap: Its sweet aroma entices flies without leaving a sticky residue.
  • Sugary water: A classic bait that attracts flies with its sugary allure.
  • Honey: Flies are drawn to the natural sweetness of honey, making it an ideal bait.
  • Syrup: Similar to honey, syrup’s thick consistency creates a sticky trap for flies.
  • Old fruit: Overripe fruit emits a sweet scent that attracts flies seeking food or a place to lay eggs.
  • Apple cider vinegar: The fermentation process in vinegar releases acetic acid, which is highly attractive to flies.
  • Old wine: Like vinegar, old wine contains acetic acid and a sweet aroma that entice flies.
  • Rotting meats (outdoor trap only): This option is effective for outdoor traps, as flies seek out meat for egg-laying.

Crafting Your Fly Trap

Materials:

  • 1 two-liter soda bottle
  • Bait of your choice
  • 1 bottle of vinegar (optional)
  • 1 piece of wire to hang your trap (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Mark a Cutting Line: Draw a line around the bottle just below the tapered neck using a permanent marker.
  2. Cut the Top off the Bottle: Use a sharp knife to cut along the line, severing the top of the bottle.
  3. Assemble the Fly Trap: Remove the soda cap, then flip the top of the bottle upside down and slide it into the bottom of the bottle, like a funnel.
  4. Bait the Trap: Remove the “funnel” to place the bait inside.
  5. Make a Handle for the Fly Trap (Optional): If desired, punch two holes on opposite sides at the top of the bottle for a wire handle.

Additional Tips for Fly Control

  • Set Traps Early: Deploy fly traps in early spring to prevent infestations.
  • Keep Traps in Place During Warm Months: In warm climates, flies reproduce year-round, so maintain traps throughout the warmer seasons.
  • Empty Traps Regularly: Empty and clean your traps frequently to ensure their effectiveness.
  • Maintain Home Cleanliness: Keep your home sanitized and dispose of overripe fruits to reduce fly presence.

Natural Fly Repellents

In addition to fly traps, consider these natural repellents:

  • Essential Oils: Essential oils like lemongrass, lavender, and eucalyptus emit scents that deter flies.
  • Cayenne Pepper Spray: A mixture of water and cayenne pepper can be sprayed around entrances to repel flies.
  • Citronella Candles: Lighting citronella candles outdoors can create a barrier that keeps flies away.

FAQs

Can I make a fly trap without apple cider vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute vinegar with extra drops of fruit-scented dish soap, sugar, regular vinegar, or bread yeast mixed with sugar and water.

Why do you put vinegar in a fly trap?

Vinegar’s acetic acid attracts flies. Trapped flies drown in the vinegar solution.

What smell will keep the flies away?

Flies dislike the scents of cinnamon, lavender, eucalyptus, and lemongrass.

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Home and Garden

Create a Home that Truly Reflects You: Tips and Ideas for Every Space

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

Create a Home that Truly Reflects You

Your home is a reflection of your personality and the people you share it with. It should be a place where you feel comfortable, relaxed, and at peace. Whether you rent or own, there are many ways to create a home that truly speaks to you.

5 Ways to Love Your Home, Even When It’s Not Your Dream Home

Your home is where you make lifelong memories, regardless of whether it’s your dream home or not. Here are five ways to appreciate the positive aspects of your home, even if it’s not perfect:

  • Focus on the good things. Instead of dwelling on what your home lacks, focus on the things you love about it.
  • Make it your own. Personalize your home with decor and furniture that reflects your unique style.
  • Make it functional. Your home should be a place where you can live comfortably and easily. Make sure it has everything you need, from comfortable furniture to efficient appliances.
  • Create a cozy atmosphere. A cozy home is a welcoming home. Add soft lighting, comfortable textiles, and personal touches to make your space feel warm and inviting.
  • Make it a sanctuary. Your home should be a place where you can escape from the outside world and relax. Create a private retreat where you can unwind, read, or simply be yourself.

18 Small Upgrades That Will Make Your Home Work Smarter for You

Smart home technology can make your life easier and more convenient. Here are 18 small upgrades that can make a big difference:

  • Smart lighting: Control your lights from anywhere with your smartphone or voice assistant.
  • Smart thermostat: Adjust your thermostat remotely to save energy and stay comfortable.
  • Smart security system: Keep your home safe and secure with a smart security system that you can monitor from your phone.
  • Smart appliances: Cook dinner, do laundry, and clean your floors with smart appliances that can be controlled remotely.

6 Ways to Make Your Home Feel Like “You”

Your home should be a reflection of your personality and style. Here are six ways to make it feel more like “you”:

  • Choose colors and patterns that you love. Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold colors and patterns that make you happy.
  • Add personal touches. Display photos, artwork, and other items that have special meaning to you.
  • Create a comfortable and inviting space. Make sure your home has plenty of comfortable seating, soft lighting, and cozy textiles.
  • Don’t be afraid to mix and match. Combine different styles and periods to create a unique and personal look.
  • Make it a space that you enjoy spending time in. Your home should be a place where you can relax, entertain guests, and pursue your hobbies.

3 Designers on What They Love Most About Their Own Homes

Interior designers spend their lives creating beautiful and functional homes for others. But what do they love most about their own homes? Here’s what three designers had to say:

  • “My home is my sanctuary. It’s a place where I can relax and be myself.” – Brigette Muller
  • “I love the way my home reflects my personality. It’s eclectic, colorful, and full of things that I love.” – Cassandra Noel
  • “My home is a place where I can entertain friends and family. It’s a place where people can come together and feel comfortable.” – Tan France

6 Home Trends That Make Your Home More Accessible

Making your home more accessible is not only important for people with disabilities, but it also makes it more inviting and functional for people of all ages and abilities. Here are six home trends that can make your home more accessible:

  • Universal design: Universal design principles create homes that are accessible and usable by everyone, regardless of age or ability.
  • Open floor plans: Open floor plans allow for easy movement and wheelchair access.
  • Wide doorways and hallways: Wide doorways and hallways make it easy to navigate your home with a wheelchair or walker.
  • Adjustable countertops and cabinets: Adjustable countertops and cabinets allow people of different heights to reach them easily.
  • Roll-in showers: Roll-in showers are designed for easy access and use for people with mobility impairments.
  • Grab bars and handrails: Grab bars and handrails provide additional support and stability for people with balance issues.

How to Create a Private Retreat in Your Home

If you need a place to escape to do what you love, why not create a private retreat in your own home? Here are a few ideas:

  • Convert a spare room into a library or reading nook.
  • Create a cozy corner in your living room with a comfortable chair and ottoman.
  • Set up a meditation space in your bedroom or bathroom.

No matter what you choose, make sure your private retreat is a place where you can relax, recharge, and be yourself.

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Home and Garden

Eliminate Pantry Pests: A Comprehensive Guide to Identification, Prevention, and Treatment

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

How to Eliminate Pantry Pests: A Comprehensive Guide

What Are Pantry Pests?

Pantry pests are tiny insects that infest stored food products, particularly grain-based items like cereals, flours, and pastas. Common pantry pests include Indian meal moths, red flour beetles, rice weevils, and mites. They can cause significant damage to food, contaminating it with their eggs, larvae, and feces.

Signs of a Pantry Pest Infestation

  • Webbing inside food packages
  • Damaged grain kernels
  • Sawdust-like material around food packages
  • Strong, sour smell
  • Clumps or discoloration in pantry items
  • Small holes in packaging
  • Visible adult pests (moths, beetles, mites)

All-Natural Ways to Eliminate Pantry Pests

Chemical treatments are not always necessary to eliminate pantry pests. Here are some effective and eco-friendly methods:

1. Inspect Before Bringing Items Inside

Inspect items at the grocery store and before bringing them inside to avoid introducing pests. Pay attention to bulk food bins and products packaged in paper or cardboard.

2. Identify and Eliminate Sources

If you suspect a pantry pest infestation, inspect your stored food items. Discard any infested products immediately in an outside garbage can.

3. Manage Your Pantry

  • Rotate your pantry inventory regularly, using up older items first.
  • Store pantry goods in pest-proof containers with tight-fitting lids to prevent infestation and cross-contamination.
  • Vacuum up food spills and messes to remove potential food sources for pests.

4. Place Insect Monitors

Place insect traps or monitors in your pantry and cabinets to detect and track any pest activity.

5. Vacuum Regularly

Vacuuming your pantry and cabinets regularly helps remove pests, eggs, and food debris that attract them.

Causes of Pantry Pests

Pantry pests can enter your home through infested food packages or eggs hidden within stored goods. Grocery stores are a common source of infestation. Poor storage practices and a cluttered pantry can also attract and support larger pest populations.

Preventing Pantry Pests

To prevent future infestations:

  • Inspect groceries thoroughly before bringing them inside.
  • Keep your pantry organized and free of food spills.
  • Rotate pantry items regularly to avoid expired products.
  • Deep clean your pantry a few times per year.

FAQ

Where do pantry pests come from?

Most pantry pests are introduced through infested food products or eggs within stored goods.

Will pantry pests go away on their own?

No, pantry pests will continue to infest and damage food until the source of the infestation is identified and removed.

Do pantry pests bite?

Most pantry pests are harmless to humans. However, carpet beetle larvae, which sometimes infest pantry items, have arrow-shaped hairs that can cause irritating rashes in sensitive individuals.

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Home and Garden

2024 Home Decor Trends: Pinterest Predicts the Future of Interior Design

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

Pinterest Predicts 2024: Top Home Decor Trends

Kitschen: The Eclectic Kitchen Revival

Pinterest’s 2024 Predicts report reveals a rising trend towards eclectic kitchens, dubbed “Kitschen.” This style embraces retro kitchen appliances and bold paint colors, creating a nostalgic and playful ambiance.

Vintage display cabinets, pastel appliances, and maximalist accessories are key elements of Kitschen. Pinterest predicts searches for “retro pink kitchens” will surge in popularity, inspired by the Barbiecore aesthetic and Paris Hilton’s cookware line. Green hues, particularly light sage tones, are also trending in kitchen design.

Western Gothic: A Cowboy-Meets-Goth Aesthetic

Western Gothic is a unique fusion of Western and Gothic design elements. This trend blends moody ranch decor with dark paint colors and even decorative skulls, creating a captivating and atmospheric space.

Pinterest reports a 145% increase in searches for Western Gothic decor, suggesting its growing popularity. This style appeals to lovers of cowboy chic and those seeking a more edgy and unconventional home aesthetic.

At-Home Coffee Bars: The Ultimate Home Barista Experience

Home coffee bars are emerging as a major trend in 2024. Searches for coffee bar styling have skyrocketed by 1,125%, indicating a growing desire for personalized and elevated coffee experiences at home.

Creating an at-home coffee bar involves transforming extra counter space or shelves into dedicated coffee stations. Small shelves above the coffee maker can display cups, syrups, and utensils, while trendy cafe chalkboards add a decorative touch.

Bold Statement Metals: A Metallic Revival

Metallic accents are making a strong comeback in home design. Silver, chrome, and aluminum features are becoming increasingly popular, adding a touch of glamour and sophistication to interiors.

This trend extends beyond industrial styles, with bold metals being incorporated into colorful aesthetics as well. Gold and copper provide versatile accents that blend effortlessly with any space, while chrome and aluminum lend a Y2K or Barbiecore vibe.

5 Designer Tips for Incorporating 2024 Trends into Your Current Space

  1. Embrace Eclecticism: Mix and match vintage and modern pieces, bold colors, and unique accessories to create a Kitschen-inspired kitchen.

  2. Go Western Gothic: Add dark paint colors, decorative skulls, and rustic elements to your living room or bedroom for a touch of Western Gothic charm.

  3. Create an At-Home Coffee Bar: Dedicate a small space in your kitchen or pantry to coffee making, complete with a shelf for supplies and a chalkboard for menu options.

  4. Incorporate Bold Metals: Accentuate your home with statement pieces in silver, chrome, aluminum, or copper. Choose pieces that complement your existing decor or create a contrasting focal point.

  5. Mix and Match Styles: Don’t be afraid to combine different trends to create a unique and personalized space. For example, incorporate Western Gothic elements into a Kitschen kitchen or add metallic accents to a bold statement wall.

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Home and Garden

The Ultimate Guide to Lawn Mower Oil: Types, Selection, and Maintenance

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

What Type of Lawn Mower Oil Should I Use?

Oil Types

The type of oil you use in your lawn mower depends on several factors, including the engine type, climate, and temperature.

4-Cycle Engines

Most gas-powered lawn mowers have 4-cycle engines, which require two separate tanks: one for gas and one for oil. The most common oil weight for 4-cycle engines is 30-weight, which refers to the viscosity or thickness of the oil.

  • Conventional oil: Mineral-based oil refined from crude oil. Less expensive than synthetic oil, but breaks down more quickly.
  • Synthetic blend oil: A blend of conventional oil and synthetic oil. Offers some of the benefits of synthetic oil, but at a lower cost.
  • Fully synthetic oil: Laboratory-created oil that offers the best protection and performance. More expensive than conventional oil, but lasts longer and performs better in extreme temperatures.

2-Cycle Engines

A few 2-cycle lawn mowers are still on the market. These engines use a mixture of gas and oil in a single tank. The oil used in 2-cycle engines is typically a lighter-weight synthetic blend labeled as “performance” or “high-performance.”

Climate and Temperature

The climate and temperature in your area will also affect the type of oil you need.

  • SAE 30: The most common oil for small engines in warmer temperatures.
  • SAE 10W-30: Improves cold-weather starting but may increase oil consumption.
  • Synthetic SAE 5W-30: Best protection at all temperatures, improved starting with less oil consumption.
  • SAE 5W-30: For very cold temperatures.
  • Vanguard 15W-50: For varying temperature ranges and continuous use, such as commercial lawn cutting or pressure washing.

Oil Tank Capacity and Change Intervals

The oil tank capacity of a lawn mower varies depending on the type of mower.

  • Walk-behind mowers: Typically 13 to 22 ounces. Change oil after 50 hours of use.
  • Riding mowers: Typically 48 to 64 ounces. Change oil after every 100 hours or annually.

How to Check Lawn Mower Oil Level

Checking the oil level in your lawn mower is essential to prevent damage.

  1. Place the mower on a flat surface.
  2. Remove the oil cap and dipstick.
  3. Wipe off the dipstick indicator with a clean towel or rag.
  4. Replace the dipstick and tighten the cap.
  5. Remove the dipstick again and read the oil level against the indicator marks.
  6. Add more oil in small increments if necessary.

How to Change Lawn Mower Oil

Walk-Behind Mowers

  1. Remove the oil cap and tilt the mower over to drain the old oil.
  2. Add new oil to the specified capacity.
  3. Check the oil level and add more as needed.

Riding Mowers

  1. Position an oil pan under the oil-drain sleeve.
  2. Remove the oil-drain plug and allow the oil to drain.
  3. Replace the oil-drain plug and add new oil to the specified capacity.
  4. Check the oil level and add more as needed.

Disposal of Old Oil

Old lawn mower oil should be recycled. Contact your local waste management company or visit Earth911.com for the nearest drop-off location.

Additional Tips

  • Avoid using special additives with lawn mower oil.
  • Choose a high-quality detergent oil classified as “For Service SF, SG, SH, SJ” or higher.
  • Synthetic oil is more expensive but offers better protection and performance.
  • Change lawn mower oil according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals.
  • If you are unsure about the type of oil to use, consult your lawn mower’s owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic.
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Home and Garden

Coffee Table Alternatives for Small Living Rooms: Space-Saving and Stylish Solutions

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

Coffee Table Alternatives for Small Living Rooms

Stylish and Space-Saving Solutions

Living in a small space doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style or functionality. When it comes to coffee tables, there are countless innovative and space-saving options available. From multipurpose furniture pieces to unique decor, here are 18 coffee table alternatives that will transform your small living room:

Multipurpose Furniture

  • Matching Side Tables: Arrange a pair of matching side tables to create the illusion of a single coffee table. They can be pulled apart for versatility and used separately when needed.

  • Vintage Trunk: A vintage trunk adds character and a touch of storage. Keep in mind that curved lids may limit practicality for placing items on top.

  • Group of Stools: Transform backless and armless stools with flat tops into coffee tables. Add trays to provide a stable surface for drinks.

  • Tray Table: A tray table offers portability and versatility. Choose a table with a lightweight tray that can be easily carried around the room.

  • Nesting Tables: Tuck away nesting tables when not in use. Their stackable design and finished edges make them ideal for small spaces.

  • Ottoman With Storage: Ottomans provide extra seating and storage. Place a tray on top for a stable surface, and remove it for additional seating when needed.

  • Wicker Style Storage Basket: Similar to ottomans, storage baskets offer hidden storage and can be used as seating or tables.

  • Large Pouf: A large pouf can serve as both a footrest and a coffee table. Add a tray to create a smooth surface for drinks.

  • Bunches of Poufs: Arrange smaller poufs in a cluster to create a unique and colorful coffee table. Use trays on top for added functionality.

  • Cushioned Footrest: A cushioned footrest provides a soft and comfortable surface for both feet and drinks. Place a tray or bowl on top for versatility.

Unique Decor

  • Sleek Stone Tables: Stone tables make a bold statement with their smooth flat surfaces and durability.

  • Abstract Shaped Wooden Table: Opt for a wooden table with a unique shape and hairpin legs for a modern and artistic touch.

  • Minimalist Design: A table with sleek wire legs and a thin surface creates a chic and space-conscious look.

  • Two-Tier Table: Maximize space with a two-tier table that provides both a top surface and a shelf below for additional storage.

  • Wooden Crate Style: A wooden crate adds a rustic touch and can be repurposed as a coffee table.

  • Backless Bench: A slender bench can be used as a coffee table and provide extra seating when needed.

  • Clear Acrylic Style: Clear acrylic tables create the illusion of space by allowing the area beneath to be visible.

  • Coffee Table With Built In Drawers: Store remotes, books, and other items discreetly in drawers built into the coffee table.

When choosing a coffee table alternative for your small living room, consider its functionality, style, and space-saving capabilities. By incorporating innovative and multipurpose pieces, you can create a stylish and comfortable living space without sacrificing functionality.

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Home and Garden

5 Essential Spaces to Prioritize for Spring Cleaning: A Step-by-Step Guide

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

5 Spaces You Should Prioritize for Spring Cleaning, According to Pros

Starting Points for Spring Cleaning

Spring cleaning can be a daunting task, but it’s essential for refreshing your home after the winter months. To make the process more manageable, start by tackling one space at a time. Here are the best starting points, according to cleaning experts:

Kitchen

  • Declutter: Go through your pantry and refrigerator, discarding expired or unusable items.
  • Organize: Sort through your kitchen storage, donating or discarding items you no longer need.
  • Clean Appliances: Wipe down the refrigerator, clean the dishwasher, and tackle the oven.
  • Surfaces: Wash ceilings, walls, and baseboards with a microfiber cloth and dish soap.
  • Finishing Touches: Wipe down cabinets and counters, clean windows, disinfect the sink, sweep, and mop.

Closet

  • Seasonal Storage: Pack away thick winter clothing and accessories in plastic boxes or vacuum-sealed bags.
  • Declutter: Go through your remaining clothes, discarding or donating items you no longer need.
  • Organize: Clean the inside of your closet and organize your clothes by category.

Bathroom

  • Deep Clean: Start by cleaning the tub, toilet, and shower thoroughly.
  • Laundry: Wash shower curtains, bath mats, and towels.
  • Surfaces: Dust light fixtures and shades, and wipe down countertops and cupboards.
  • Declutter: Discard unused or expired toiletries.
  • Floors: Clean the floors last to avoid tracking dirt or water.

Utility Spaces

  • Declutter: Remove seasonal items from your entryway and mudroom, replacing them with spring essentials.
  • Organize: Designate storage spots for categories like tools, cleaning supplies, and electronics.
  • Linens: Review your linens and towels, discarding or donating worn or unused items.

Home Office

  • Cord Management: Wrap or tie up cords for a cleaner look.
  • Tech Declutter: Recycle or discard old electronics and accessories.
  • Paperwork: Sort through old papers, discarding or digitizing as needed.
  • Supplies and Equipment: Wipe down your desk, monitor, and other office supplies.
  • Digital Cleanup: Delete old files, organize folders, and archive emails.

Tips for Each Space

  • Kitchen: Use a degreaser to clean the oven and stovetop.
  • Closet: Hang clothes on padded hangers to prevent stretching.
  • Bathroom: Use a squeegee to remove water from shower walls and doors.
  • Utility Spaces: Vacuum rugs and mats regularly to prevent dirt buildup.
  • Home Office: Keep your desk clear of clutter to improve focus and productivity.

Additional Tips

  • Break down large tasks into smaller ones to make them more manageable.
  • Use a checklist to keep track of your progress and avoid missing any areas.
  • Open windows and doors to ventilate while cleaning.
  • Use natural cleaning products whenever possible to reduce chemical exposure.
  • Reward yourself for completing each space to stay motivated.
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