Posts tagged non toxic
Keeping Your Kitchen Clean: Tips For A Spotless Space

Once you have cleaned your living room, it stays clean—at least for a while. The same goes for your bedroom and dining room. However, cleaning the kitchen seems like a never-ending job. No matter how many times a day you clean it, in a matter of minutes it can become messy again. This is nothing unusual since the kitchen is one of the most used areas in your home.

Known as the “heart of the home”, it is commonly the dirtiest place in the home for obvious reasons. Since this is the place where you spend the most time, storing and preparing food, frequent cleaning is a must.

Thankfully, keeping your kitchen spotless doesn’t need to give you a headache. With these tips for a spotless space, maintaining a clean kitchen will be a breeze. 


No. 1

Clean up food splatters right away

Your counters and backsplash can quickly become covered in food splatters, especially when you are frying something or using a hand mixer. The most annoying ones are definitely oil marks. Instead of letting them sit, wipe down the walls and counters right away.

If you are worried that you will damage the wall paint while cleaning, you can find many useful tips on removing oil marks from the wall. A bit of soap and warm water will usually do the trick, while white vinegar will help you deal with more stubborn stains. 


No. 2

Do not postpone your cleaning

How many times have you been too lazy to wash the dishes after a large meal, so your kitchen looked like a bombsite until the next day? The trick isn’t to clean it right after you have finished eating but to clean it while you are cooking.

If you need to peel something, keep a little compost bowl close by, so you do not make a mess out of your counters. While the meal is cooking on the stove or baking in the oven, use that time to quickly wash the dishes you used for preparation.

If you have a dishwasher, even better! Just put those plates and bowls into the dishwasher, wipe down the counters, and you are done. After your meal, you will only have a couple of dishes to wash, and your kitchen will be completely clean again.


No. 3

Do not forget to scrub your sink

While you are washing or rinsing your dishes, grease and small pieces of food end up in the sink. When you are done with the dishes, take a minute to clean your sink. Remove the sink stopper, add a few drops of detergent into the sink, grab a sponge, and scrub it. In the end, just rinse it with warm water. This will keep your sink looking and smelling fresh.


No. 4

Take out the trash every day

Nothing can stink up your kitchen as fast as rotting food. Even if your garbage bin isn’t half full, be sure to take the trash out each night before bed. Compost rots incredibly quickly, so if you have thrown away some table scraps, they will start to smell bad in a matter of hours.  This stench may draw unwanted pests, so make sure you wipe down the outside of the bin as well to remove any food stains.


No. 5

Throw away outdated food

Not everyone washes their hands before opening the fridge, so once a week wipe down the doors, sides, and handles. Also, remove the shelves and clean them thoroughly. Since you need to take all the food out of the fridge to wash the shelves, use this opportunity to go through it and remove outdated products. 


No. 6

Pull the stove out

You wouldn’t believe how dirty the area behind the stove gets. This area becomes a trap for a lot of debris and food crumbs, so make sure you pull the stove out several times a month and clean behind it. Mop the kitchen floor, then clean the baseboards and the floor with an antibacterial floor cleaner. 


Takeaways

Maintaining a clean home doesn’t have to involve hours of hard work each day. With these tips, you will be able to enjoy a clean kitchen without wearing yourself out daily. The key is to maintain your kitchen and apply the clean-as-you-go method to cut down on buildup.


THE LIST

Home

✔️

FORCE OF NATURE

Force of Nature has created a way to clean and kill germs with no toxic chemicals and no more single-use plastic bottles. Their mission: To stop the toxic madness with cleaning products that put people, and our planet, first.

Force of Nature’s formula, made from only three natural ingredients: water, salt, and vinegar, is an EPA-registered medical-grade disinfectant and sanitizer that kills 99.9% of germs*. It has no harmful fumes or residues to rinse. Along with that, Force of Nature is on EPA’s approved lists for COVID-19 & Monkeypox virus. Their formula also kills respiratory viruses and the viruses that cause the flu.

To get started, all you do is order a starter kit, which includes everything you need to easily start making your multi-purpose cleaner at home, whenever you need it. Watch a demo here.

GET 40% OFF WITH CODE: WOWCLEAN

✔️

Amazon Kitchen

Shop our Amazon kitchen finds, including this unique compost bin to store food waste and avoid odors.

 


9 Common Summer Pests and Their Usual Hiding Spots

As the summer season approaches, so does the arrival of various pests that can disrupt our outdoor activities and invade our homes. Knowing the common hiding spots of these pests is crucial in preventing infestations and ensuring a pest-free summer.

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@lucreziaworthington showing us the beautiful view from an ex monastery converted into a wonderful, rustic hotel nestled near the hills of the Chianti Classico in Tuscany, Italy.

In this article, we will explore seven common summer pests and the usual places they hide, providing you with valuable insights to safeguard your home and enjoy the season without unwelcome guests.

 

01

Mosquitoes

Those relentless summer nuisances have specific hiding spots where they thrive. Stagnant water acts as a magnet for mosquitoes, making flower pots, bird baths, gutters, and discarded containers potential breeding grounds.

To prevent mosquito infestations, it is crucial to eliminate stagnant water sources by regularly emptying and cleaning containers, clearing clogged gutters, and ensuring proper drainage in your yard.

Additionally, keeping your lawn well-maintained, trimming tall grass, and reducing shaded areas, can discourage mosquitoes from resting and breeding during the day. Taking these proactive measures will help you create a more enjoyable and mosquito-free outdoor environment.

02

Ants

Ants are notorious for invading our homes in search of food, and they have several common hiding spots. These industrious insects often find their way through cracks and crevices in the walls and foundations. They may also establish nests in wall voids, behind baseboards, or underneath kitchen appliances. Outdoors, they can create colonies in the soil, garden beds, or near tree stumps.

03

Flies

Flies are not only bothersome but can also pose health risks as they carry disease-causing pathogens. To keep flies at bay, it is important to address the areas where they tend to congregate. Apart from garbage bins, compost piles, and pet waste, flies are often found buzzing around outdoor dining areas, especially if food is left uncovered.

By practicing proper sanitation and ensuring food is tightly covered or stored appropriately, you can significantly reduce the presence of flies and create a more enjoyable outdoor experience. Additionally, installing fly screens on windows and doors can act as a physical barrier, preventing flies from entering your home or indoor spaces.

 

04

Wasps

Wasps can be aggressive and deliver painful stings, making it crucial to know where they hide. These stinging insects build their nests in protected areas, such as eaves, attics, or tree branches. They may also construct nests underground or inside wall voids. Identifying their nests early on can help you avoid unwanted encounters. Be sure to call in dependable pest control providers if you notice wasp nests near high-traffic areas or areas where you spend a lot of time, such as your backyard, patio, or near entryways.

 

05

Bedbugs

Bedbugs, those nighttime pests that feed on human blood, have specific hiding spots in our homes. They typically reside in mattresses, box springs, and bedding, where they can easily access their human hosts. Bed Bugs also hide in cracks and crevices around the bed frame, furniture seams, and even behind wallpaper.

 

06

Ticks

Ticks, the small arachnids that can transmit diseases like Lyme disease, thrive in specific environments. They typically hide in tall grass, wooded areas, and leaf litter. Ticks wait on vegetation for passing hosts to latch onto, so be cautious when spending time in areas where ticks are prevalent.

 

07

Cockroaches

Cockroaches, the resilient pests that can cause frustration, have preferred hiding spots within our homes. They seek out warm and humid areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and kitchen cabinets. These nocturnal insects can squeeze into small cracks and crevices, making them difficult to detect and eliminate.

 

08

Spiders

Spiders are commonly found in homes and gardens during the summer months. They tend to hide in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, basements, attics and sheds. Spiders also create webs in corners, windowsills, and outdoor structures. Eliminating clutter and regularly cleaning these areas can help prevent spider infestations.

 

09

Bees

Bees play a vital role in pollination, but their presence can be concerning for those with allergies or phobias. Bees often build their nests in sheltered areas such as tree hollows, wall voids, or even underground. They are attracted to flowers and flowering plants, so gardens and outdoor spaces with abundant blooms may attract bees.

 

Takeaways

By familiarizing yourself with the common hiding spots of summer pests, you can take proactive measures to prevent infestations and protect your home. Regular home maintenance, inspections, proper sanitation, and implementing natural and effective pest control measures will go a long way in ensuring a comfortable and pest-free summer season.

Remember, early detection and prompt action are key to minimizing the impact of pests and maintaining a healthy living environment. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and enjoy a pest-free summer!

THE LIST

WELLNESS

✔️

FORCE OF NATURE

Force of Nature has created a way to clean and kill germs with no toxic chemicals and no more single-use plastic bottles. Their mission: To stop the toxic madness with cleaning products that put people, and our planet, first.

Force of Nature’s formula, made from only three natural ingredients: water, salt, and vinegar, is an EPA-registered medical-grade disinfectant and sanitizer that kills 99.9% of germs*. It has no harmful fumes or residues to rinse.

Along with that, Force of Nature is on EPA’s approved lists for COVID-19 & Monkeypox virus. Their formula also kills respiratory viruses and the viruses that cause the flu.

To get started, all you do is order a starter kit, which includes everything you need to easily start making your multi-purpose cleaner at home, whenever you need it. Watch a demo here.

GET 40% OFF WITH CODE: WOWCLEAN

 


11 Ways to Ensure Your Home Always Looks Amazing

We all desire to come home to a place that looks sparkling clean, fresh, and inviting. Maintaining such a standard may seem difficult, especially with busy schedules, but it does not have to be. There are practical steps you can take to ensure your home always looks amazing—from effective cleaning habits to utilizing professional services, this article touches on several helpful tips.

Hello Lovely Living

01

Have a regular cleaning schedule

The first step to maintaining a tidy and appealing home is implementing a regular cleaning schedule. This does not have to be intensive; simple tasks like wiping down counters after cooking, doing the dishes after each meal, or vacuuming the living room twice a week can make a huge difference. Regular maintenance prevents messes from accumulating, making your home consistently pleasant and organized.

If you do not have the time to keep on top of your cleaning schedule on your own, then using maid services, if you can afford to do so, is an excellent way of ensuring everything gets done and your home stays as clean and fresh as can be no matter how busy life gets.

For larger spaces or tougher cleaning tasks, incorporating commercial floor scrubbers can be a game-changer in maintaining cleanliness. These powerful machines efficiently handle dirt and grime, especially in high-traffic areas, ensuring your home not only looks but also feels impeccably clean.

02

Declutter regularly

The phrase "a place for everything and everything in its place" is a golden rule for an amazing-looking home. Regular decluttering helps you maintain control over your belongings. Discard items you no longer need, and organize the remaining ones in dedicated spaces. This action not only makes your house neater but also gives it a spacious feel.


03

Add some green

Indoor plants do wonders for your home. They add a fresh, vibrant touch to your living space, promote better air quality, and can even boost your mood. There is a plant for every level of green thumb and for every type of room—sun-drenched or dim. Find the ones that work best for your lifestyle and your home's conditions.


04

Personalize your space

Your home should reflect your personality and style. Add personal touches, such as family photographs, art pieces you love, or unique furnishings that tell your story. These elements give your home character, making it more appealing and welcoming for you, your family and your guests too.


05

Update your lighting

Lighting plays a vital part in determining the ambiance of your property. Make sure every room has appropriate lighting: bright for the kitchen and home office, dimmable for the living room, and soothing for the bedroom. Also, take advantage of natural light. Open curtains and blinds during the day to let in sunlight, which can make your home feel airy and spacious and save on energy bills.


06

Freshen up with paint

A fresh coat of paint can drastically transform the look and feel of your home. Light, neutral tones can make your rooms appear larger and more welcoming. If you are feeling adventurous, you can paint an accent wall in a bold color or use wallpaper with a fun pattern.


07

Regular maintenance

Routine home maintenance is vital for keeping your home looking its best. Regularly check for issues such as leaky faucets, damaged paint, or broken fixtures. By catching these problems early, you prevent minor issues from becoming major headaches that tuin the state of your home.


08

Use aromatherapy

A beautifully scented home is an inviting one. Choose diffusers, scented candles, or incense that reflect the mood you want to create. For a refreshing and clean feel, opt for citrus or pine. For a calming environment, choose lavender or chamomile.


09

Prioritize high-traffic areas

High-traffic areas like the kitchen, living room, and bathroom can quickly become messy. Prioritizing these spaces can keep your home looking tidy. Keep surfaces clear, manage wires from electronics, and ensure these areas are well-lit.


10

Update your decor seasonally

Refreshing your home decor according to the season can make your space feel lively and current. Something as simple as changing your throw pillows, adding seasonal plants, or displaying holiday-themed decor can make a big difference


11

Utilize the right storage solutions

Effective storage solutions can help prevent clutter. Consider using decorative baskets, shelving units, or furniture with built-in storage—not only can these options help organize your belongings, but they can also serve as appealing decor pieces.


Takeaways

As you can see, there are a lot of simple things you can do to ensure that your home always looks, feels, and even smells amazing, and it is worth implementing as many of them as you can because when your home always feels amazing, it is much more comfortable for you, your friends, and your family to spend time in.

THE LIST

WELLNESS

✔️

FORCE OF NATURE

Force of Nature has created a way to clean and kill germs with no toxic chemicals and no more single-use plastic bottles. Their mission: To stop the toxic madness with cleaning products that pForce of Nature has created a way to clean and kill germs with no toxic chemicals and no more single-use plastic bottles. Their mission: To stop the toxic madness with cleaning products that put people, and our planet, first.

Force of Nature’s formula, made from only three natural ingredients: water, salt, and vinegar, is an EPA-registered medical-grade disinfectant and sanitizer that kills 99.9% of germs*. It has no harmful fumes or residues to rinse.

Along with that, Force of Nature is on EPA’s approved lists for COVID-19 & Monkeypox virus. Their formula also kills respiratory viruses and the viruses that cause the flu.

To get started, all you do is order a starter kit, which includes everything you need to easily start making your multi-purpose cleaner at home, whenever you need it. Watch a demo here.

Get 40% off with code: WOWCLEAN

 


Organic Vs Inorganic Herbs And Spices - Does It Really Matter?

There is so much talk in the health community about buying organic foods, but something that often goes overlooked is the importance of buying organic herbs and spices. Naturally, we would think that replacing our spice cabinet with organic options is no big deal, however, today's post will clear up exactly why it is just as important as any other item in our pantry.

Herbs and spices are a category of grocery items that we buy very rarely, so it's no wonder why they are out of sight out of mind because they are not often on our grocery list. When we do use herbs and spices in our cooking or baking, we typically use them in moderation, so they end up lasting for years - and we keep them around even beyond their shelf life. We don't think about herbs and spices often unless a recipe calls for something we don't have on hand. Another scenario that leads to us purchasing new herbs and spices is when we run out of an item completely, and in rare cases when something has clearly gone rancid.

hellolovelyliving

On top of that, once you do need to replace something, you find that organic herbs and spices are a little more expensive, which can deter you from making that split second decision between the better option. Typically, you will reach for the inorganic option thinking that you are stretching your money and that it doesn't make a huge difference anyway because you don't use much of it.

Considering all of the factors that may be at play in your purchasing decision, I am going to now get into the more pressing concerns that you should consider and that are far more important in deciding whether or not to purchase organic spices, herbs, and seasonings.


What is the purpose of herbs & spices?


Spices can be thought of as a garnish or a way to add flavor and aroma to cooking and baking. However, did you know that herbs and spices also have incredible medicinal and health benefits and have been used throughout history for that very purpose? They are also used as ingredients in powerful natural remedies for those who prefer or look to alternative methods of treating health conditions.

The problem with conventional, inorganic herbs and spices


Conventional herbs and spices are not going to have the concentrated medicinal and health benefits that you would expect, rather they will contain high concentrations of toxic chemical additives, GMOs, synthetic anti-caking agents such as sodium aluminsilicate, sodium ferrocyanide, calcium silicate or silicon dioxide, pesticides, and more composition-disrupting additives.

Conventional herbs and spices are also grown using fumigation and irradiation practices, which changes the chemical composition of an herb or spice by exposing it to ethylene oxide and radiation to kill off bacteria and other contaminants. This process creates carcinogenic by-products that can increase your exposure to free radical damage.

More reasons to buy organic herbs and spices


As mentioned previously, conventional, inorganic herbs and spices are loaded with chemicals by the time they hit your plate, which is more than a reason to stay away from them and switch to organic options. Since conventional farming practices rely on chemical intervention, you expose yourself to a host of issues because you simply do not know the long-term effects of ingesting these chemicals over a lifetime. Over time, you may not think that herbs and spices can make a difference to your health, but considering that you are using these ingredients in your cooking on a daily basis and from different inorganic sources, you are better off removing them completely.

Organic products may cost a bit more than conventional products, but it is worth the investment in your long-term health. Since they do last awhile, you won't have to worry about replacing them at every grocery trip. As a general rule, whole spices will stay fresh for about 4 years, ground spices for about 2 to 3 years and dried herbs for 1 to 3 years. source

What to look for when buying herbs & spices


Not all organic herbs and spices are created equal. Here are things to look out for to ensure you are getting the highest quality products.

Always buy organic, No anti-caking agents, and No Irradiation

Buying organic will ensure that the companies you choose are certified with the USDA National Organic Program when producing their products. This means that they are committed to sustainable farming and production processes and responsible action toward their customers’ health and our planet's future. Organic herbs and spices are not irradiated, are not grown with pesticides, genetically engineered ingredients (GMOs), and do not contain synthetic caking agents and chemical additives. You can rest assured that they are held to the highest standards from seed to plate.

Have I replaced all of my herbs and spices?


When I left Oklahoma back in October 2017, thankfully that gave me a reason to throw out all of my herbs, spices, and seasonings. I was that type of person that had a mix of inorganic and organic products. I was slowly replacing my collection, so what I would do is purchase an organic product one at a time when I would run out of something. Honestly, I think that doing so is better than nothing, so if you are wanting to make the switch, purchase them as you go and soon you will have a whole collection of organic herbs and spices that you can be proud of.

My herb, spice, and seasoning collection since moving to California is still growing, but I have been very good at purchasing only organic products. However, I still have a long way to go because I have only currently purchased items that I use more frequently.

spicely - featured organic herb, spice, and seasoning blend company


An organic herb, spice, and seasoning blend company that I recently discovered is Spicely Organics, and I appreciate how they have such a large selection of products. It can be difficult to find all the herbs and spices that I want in the grocery store (even online) and in various sizes, so I like how Spicely Organics provides so many options to choose from, from small ecoBox sizes (0.4 oz) to bulk options. The ecoBoxes are great for ensuring that you are using your spices up before they expire.

All of their products are free from anti-caking agents and they do not sell any products or use any ingredients that have been sterilized by irradiation or ethylene oxide. They are also very mindful of their packaging by using glass, tin, and ecoBoxes and avoiding use of plastics. Their spices and seasonings also do not contain any salt or sugar, which is great because what you see is what you get without any fillers.

They are also very passionate about where they source their ingredients. In a nutshell, they require that their suppliers avoid forced and child labor, discrimination, unsafe work environments, substandard wages and other unethical practices. Read more about their highest standards of quality and environmental sustainability.

If you are a business and are looking to source organic bulk herbs and spices, they also sell wholesale organic dried herbs as well as wholesale spices. Since they are a direct importer of organic spices and herbs, you can be assured that you are getting wholesale herbs and wholesale spices straight from the source.

Overall, they are a rad natural herb and spice company in my opinion! I recently shared on Instagram how I used their cream of tartar as a natural migraine remedy. It was great knowing that the cream of tartar I was using was organic because it can be difficult to find organic cream of tartar, and heck, I wouldn’t want to be adding more chemicals to my body if my goal was to get rid of a migraine. If you’re interested in that natural migraine remedy, you can read that here. It really works, y’all!

hellolovelyliving
 

Final Thoughts


I hope that this article provided more than enough evidence that now is the time to switch to organic herbs, spices, and seasoning blends. Not only will you be getting quality products, but you will experience higher quality flavors, aromas, and the purest form of the ingredients that you are using in your meals. Small steps do really add up to larger rewards toward our health, lifestyle, and overall wellness.


Disclosure: The content in this article is in collaboration with Spicely Organics. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Please see my privacy policy for a complete disclosure.




DIY Exfoliating Body Bars

I'm all about these exfoliating body bars lately, and since my recipe makes a ton of them, I'm not running out anytime soon! Truth be told, this recipe was born from a failed attempt at making bubble bars, which I'm not complaining about! I absolutely love these. Read on for the full DIY recipe, and get you some smooth skin!

 
HelloLovelyLiving.com | DIY Exfoliating Body Bars
 

By far, the best part about these exfoliating bath bars is making them! It's so therapeutic making your own skincare products. I mean, it's like baking, but better. Why? Because you don't have to worry about messing up and getting everything exact! It's all about experimenting and having fun.

When you make your own skincare, it takes you back to the basics and allows you to create something for you. We've got to remember that skincare is very personal, so put your heart into it and make it specific to your needs.

For this recipe, I totally was flexible with the ingredients that I used. I didn't freak out that I didn't have certain ingredients. I just used what I had on hand. That's what I recommend you do, too! I've been researching ingredients for a while now and their skincare benefits, so it's easy for me to look into my cabinet and find what I want for a specific result that I want. I suggest you get into researching natural ingredients and their benefits online and incorporate and experiment with them in your skincare routine.

 
HelloLovelyLiving.com | DIY Exfoliating Body Bars
 

The purpose of these exfoliation bars is to exfoliate the areas of the body that get neglected. Real talk: I'm mainly talking about the crevices of the body where the sun don't shine! Armpits/underarms, inner thighs, bikini area, inner elbows, inner knees. It can also be used on any other parts of the body where you want to stimulate new skin cell production and turnover. I also have used them on areas where I have stretch marks to do just that. These exfoliating bars really smooth the skin in a way that normal cleansing can't.

The areas that I had mentioned earlier are generally prone to hyperpigmentation AKA discoloration and buildup of melanin. This can all be prevented or reversed with regular exfoliation and proper cleansing of the areas. Buildup can come in the form of dead skin, oil, dirt, and product buildup (as is the case with deodorant), so frequently taking an exfoliating bar to the skin is going to help to remove all of that junk and keep it youthful and bright. I keep one in the shower at all times and use it during every shower.

 
 
HelloLovelyLiving.com | DIY Exfoliating Body Bars
 

So, let's get into the recipe! I used baking soda and rice flour for their exfoliating properties. Rice flour has an amazing array of skin benefits, which you can read about here. It's one of my favorite ingredients to use. I also used glycerine, which is really good for moisturizing the skin and is very important for these particular areas that are prone to being dry. Castille soap is a natural soap that will cleanse the area without adding buildup to achieve a squeaky clean. Rosehip oil is another amazing ingredient for combatting hyperpigmentation. Then, there's matcha. I added that in just for the fun of it, but it also has anti-aging properties, which is always a good idea! I sprinkled in some rose petals as well, then topped each with some almonds mainly for the pretty-factor, but they both add to that exfoliation.

Like I said, you can get creative with the ingredients you add in as far as oils and herbs. Next time, I think I will be adding in licorice root. You can read up more about licorice root here.  

 
HelloLovelyLiving.com | DIY Exfoliating Body Bars
HelloLovelyLiving.com | DIY Exfoliating Body Bars
 
 
HelloLovelyLiving.com | DIY Exfoliating Body Bars
HelloLovelyLiving.com | DIY Exfoliating Body Bars

 

 


DIY

Exfoliating Body Bars


 

INGREDIENTS

 

  • 2.5 cups baking soda

  • 1/3 + 1/2 cups rice flour

  • 1/3 cup glycerine

  • 1/2 cup castille soap

  • 1 Tbsp rosehip oil

  • 4 tsp matcha powder

  • Toppings: rose petals + slivered almonds

Yield: 18-20 3" x 1" rounds

 

INSTRUCTIONS

 

In a large bowl, mix all dry ingredients together first - baking soda, rice flour, and matcha powder. Then, in a separate bowl, mix all of the wet ingredients together - glycerine, castille soap, rosehip oil.

Slowly add the wet mixture into the dry mixture, mixing in between until a dough starts to form. You will have to kneed the mixture, which is basically the best part! Once it comes together, sprinkle in rose petals, then roll it out into a 3" log on parchment paper.

Cut into 1" rounds and press slivered almonds onto each piece. Set on parchment paper to dry for 24-48 hours or until completely dry. Place them in a covered container.

To use, simply use on wet skin to exfoliate the area. Apply in circular motions until desired exfoliation is achieved, then rinse off.

 

Will you be trying this recipe? I'd love to hear about your experience, so do come back and let me know how it works for you!

 
 

*I have linked products for your convenience, which may include affiliate links.