Ideas & Tips — Home

May is National Moving Month, with the Department of Transportation predicting that more than 35 million Americans will relocate this year. That means you probably know someone who is changing residences in the next month, whether a friend, family member, coworker or significant other. Once they complete their big move, why not help them celebrate with some thoughtful housewarming gifts? Here are five beautiful home gifts available for $10 or less: Egg server with spoon: Cheer up your morning with this stylish stainless steel egg server! A raised egg cup comfortably holds a large AA egg standing up-right. A built-in plate...

Whether you decide to go with the more traditional stainless steel cookware or more unusual stainless steel items such as cups or candleholders, stainless steel housewares add refinement and modern sheen to a home without sacrificing practicality. Supply your house with stainless steel to take advantage of these benefits: Durability: Stainless steel has a longer lifespan than most other materials and is highly resistant to damage such as scratches and dents. It also maintains the same appearance over time, never becoming discolored or (obviously) stained.  Easy cleaning: Stainless steel owes much of its popularity in the kitchen to the fact that it can be cleaned...

Your kitchen may be hiding some unwelcome guests. A recent study from the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) found potentially dangerous germs on a number of everyday cooking items, putting you at risk of serious illness.  In the study, researchers examined dozens of samples taken from 20 Americans kitchens. They discovered that refrigerators often harbor some particularly nasty microscopic activity. Chilled meat and vegetable drawers were found to contain E. coli, salmonella, listeria, mold and yeast, and refrigerator water dispensers had some of the highest germ counts of all.  Rubber spatulas and food storage containers with rubber seals were other big...

We've previously discussed on this blog how to put together your own bar cart, which adds panache to any home. However, if you aren't a big drinker or you don't always keep liquor on hand, you don't have to be left out of this hot decorating trend! Here are 8 tips for making an at-home coffee bar: Delivery is key: Half of the fun of setting up a bar area is finding a pretty table or cart on which to put it. The same principle applies when you are putting together a coffee bar.  Fresh flowers: Fresh flowers immediately elevate...

Many people think that if they don't have an entire extra room, then they can't have a home office. However, even the tiniest spaces — like an extra closet or pantry — can be turned into stylish work places. Here are some tips to get you started: Add light: It's crucial that an office space have proper lighting, so if you are converting a closet then be sure to hire an electrician to add wiring. A combination of overhead and lamp light creates ideal conditions for working.  Include desk accessories: Elegant accessories in stainless steel can elevate your desk style....