Guest Post - 6 Interior Design Ideas & Tips for Designing an Easy-to-clean Home

If you are constantly cleaning up after your kids or pets, it can feel like you are never really able to relax in your own space. A home can quickly become cluttered and messy even if you don't have a kid or pets.

Creating a space that is both comfortable and stylish is essential. But designing a home that is easy to clean is also crucial. You can make a few simple house design choices to ensure your home is easy to keep clean. Read on.

6 Interior Design Ideas for Designing Clean Home

By following these 6 smart ideas and tips, you can design an artistic home that is easier to clean at the same time.

1. Flooring is the Key to a Clean Home: Choose the Right One.

Choosing the right flooring is one of the most important decisions you'll make when designing an easy-to-clean home. For rooms that see a lot of traffic, like the kitchen or living room, opt for flooring that's easy to clean and maintain. Marble flooring has been the preferred choice among the wealthy since ancient times, and the trend has not changed. A marble floor design adds elegance and value to a property. It can be employed in practically any interior style and become a key component or focal point of the overall design.

Marble is an excellent option for such areas. They're easy to wipe down and don't show dirt and grime as quickly as wooden or other carpeting options. Also, marble flooring looks luxurious and beautiful in every room.

2. Keep Your Furniture Off the Ground

Another way to make cleaning more manageable is to opt for elevated furniture. This means choosing bookshelves, couches, and coffee tables that are off the ground. Elevated furniture is easier to clean around and under. And it can also help to make your space feel more open and airy.

Also, choosing furniture with a storage option is a good way to declutter. You can quickly dump the magazines, blankets, and old toys in them. But make sure don’t touch the ground

3. Choose Your Upholstery Wisely: Opt for Easy-to-clean Fabrics

When it comes to home maintenance keeping your furniture upholstery clean and stain-free is one of the significant tasks. There are a few things to remember to spend less time cleaning your sofa. First, choose fabrics that are easy to clean. Microfiber and leather are both good options.

Second, avoid light colors. The dirt and stains look more prominently on them. And third, opt for patterns or textures that can help to disguise dirt and grime.

4. Install Multiple Built-in Storages to Minimize Clutter

In modern homes, innovative use of available space is vital. Thus another way to make your home easier to clean is to install more built-in storage. This means things like built-in shelving, cabinets, and drawers.

Built-in storage helps to cut down on clutter. And it's easier to clean around and under these pieces. Some smart examples are using canisters or wicker baskets to store your bathroom essentials and, as already mentioned, choosing furniture with a storage option.

5. The Type of Wall Color is Extremely Important

When it comes to the walls in your home, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, choose paint colors that are easy to clean. The high-gloss paints are much easier to clean than the mat ones.

It is imperative if you have kids, as the walls of your home are the most attractive canvas for them. Also, avoid wallpaper. It's difficult to clean and can be a pain to remove if you ever decide to change it.

6. Cabinet &Countertops: Critical aspects of Any Kitchen layout

When it comes to the kitchen, there are 2 main aspects – One is your countertop, and another is Cabinet.

• Cabinet

It's wise to have kitchen cabinets in dark colors and gloss-painted in an Indian kitchen. They are easy to clean and maintain. Also, avoid open cabinets. You can opt for the glass window cabinet, which helps you look inside without opening them repeatedly.

• Countertops

Marble and quartz countertops are popular these days because of being aesthetically pleasing and easy to maintain. If you are redoing your kitchen, don't forget to install a new countertop made from either of these timeless natural stones.

No matter what home style you have, there are ways to make cleaning easier. By following these 6 interior design tips, you can design an easy-to-clean home that will save you a lot of time and effort.

Author Bio:

Aparna Rao has a great passion for interior design and decor. Her design mantra is that the interiors of any space should be designed keeping in mind functionality and aesthetics. She works as a content marketer for Stonex India, a leading marble manufacturer, and has gained valuable insights into the marble stone industry. Her extensive knowledge of different types of stones and their properties as well as interior design is what makes her content stand apart and is appreciated by her readers. Through her content, she also offers creative, innovative, and effective design and decor solutions.

Glass Shower Enclosures – Your Ultimate Guide!

This is a sponsored post. The opinions in the post are honest although it is a sponsored post. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

For an ideal bathroom renovation, you often have to go above and beyond to change the aesthetics of your bathroom. One great idea is to opt for glass shower enclosures. These glass shower enclosures are best known for their aesthetic appeal.

They are also quite durable. However, some homeowners may have doubts about the strength and durability of glass shower doors. Well, don't worry. This article will share all the essential aspects of glass shower doors. So, let us dive in!

What Are Glass Shower Enclosures?

More and more people are installing glass shower enclosures in their homes. They like its distinctive looks. That's because its modern feel makes the bathroom look luxurious. But what exactly is a glass shower enclosure?

Simply put, glass shower enclosures are showers that are enclosed by glass walls. This can include anything from a frameless glass enclosure (which has no metal framing around the glass panels) to a traditional framed glass enclosure.

Glass shower enclosures can be either semi-frameless (which means that there is metal framing around some of the glass panels) or fully frameless all the glass panels lack metal framing).

Glass shower enclosures are great for making your bathroom look luxurious. They are also practical because they help keep your bathroom cleaner and prevent water from getting outside the shower area. 

Further, these glass shower enclosures come in a variety of different styles, so you can find the one that you like and is also affordable.

Which Type Of Glass Is Best For These Glass Shower Enclosures?

When choosing glass for your shower enclosure, it is important to think about how it will look and if it is practical. There are three main types of glass used in showers - clear, frosted, and patterned. Each type has different benefits. Let us explore all these glass options.

1: Clear Glass

Homeowners usually choose clear glass for shower enclosures because it makes the bathroom space feel bigger and airy. These clear glass shower doors are also easy to clean since there are no tiny spaces for soap scum and mildew to build up in.

However, clear glass does require more frequent cleaning than frosted or patterned glass, as it shows water spots and streaks more easily.

2: Frosted Glass

Frosted glass is a good choice if you're looking for privacy in your shower enclosure, as it prevents others from seeing inside. It's also less likely to show water spots and streaks than clear glass, making it easier to clean.

On the flip side, it would be hard to see through the frosted glass when you're in the shower, so you'll need to be careful when choosing this option.

3: Patterned Glass

Patterned glass is a good choice if you want some privacy but also want natural light. It is somewhat see-through but not as clear as regular glass.

Furthermore, another good thing about patterned glass is that it does not show water spots and streaks as much, so it is easier to keep clean. The only downside is that it can be more difficult to see through the patterned glass panels when you are in the shower, so be careful when choosing this option.

Why The Majority Opts For Glass Shower Enclosures?

If you're looking for a way to update your bathroom and make it look nicer, glass shower enclosures are a great option. They can give your bathroom a more modern look and feel and are easy to clean and maintain.

1: They Look Great

People might choose to put glass around their showers for many reasons. Some people think it looks nicer than a normal shower. In reality, they look great. 

Their aesthetic appeal makes your bathroom look modern, stylish, and practical at the same time. Moreover, glass showers are also easier to clean because there are no tiles or grout lines that can get dirty.

2: Makes Your Bathroom Look Bigger

A glass shower enclosure is a good way to make your bathroom look bigger. It makes the bathroom look brighter and more open. The reason here is glass. Glass is a material that reflects light and creates an illusion of a bigger space.

So, no matter the size of your bathroom, glass shower doors would make it appear bigger than its actual size.

3: Easy to Clean

Unlike shower curtains, glass shower doors are very easy to clean. To clean your glass shower enclosure, wipe it with a soft cloth or sponge and mild soap solution. You can use a glass cleaner or white vinegar for getting rid of the tough stains.

Further, to preserve the look of the shower door, do not use cleaners or scrubbers that will scratch it. Also, clean up any water spots or soap scum right away. Regularly cleaning a glass shower enclosure will make it look brand new even after years of use.

4: Highly Customizable

There are different types of glass shower doors. For example, you can get ones that have a frame or ones that do not have a frame. You can also choose between different types of glass, such as clear or frosted.

And, of course, you can select a variety of hardware finishes to complete the look of your door. In other words, when it comes to glass shower doors, the sky is the limit in terms of customization. So, if you're looking for a truly unique look for your bathroom, glass shower doors are definitely worth considering.

Final Thoughts!

So, now you know all about different types of glass shower enclosures. There is no doubt about the functionality of these shower enclosures. Compared to shower curtains, they are relatively easy to clean and also don't require too much space.

You can even install them on your own. Their aesthetic appeal really attracts homeowners. It also increases the financial worth of your house. So, given all the benefits, it is tough to overlook these shower enclosures.

No matter which type of shower glass door you opt for, never compromise on the quality of its glass panels. Always buy them from a trustworthy glass vendor.

Guest Post - Blinds vs. Curtains – What Is the Right Choice for Your Home?

Choosing window treatments can be a tough decision. Do you go with blinds or curtains? There are benefits to both, so it depends on your needs and goals. Here are a few suggestions to keep in mind while making the right decision. 
Blinds are a good option if you're looking for something that will give you more privacy. To let in as much or no to little light as you want, they can be adjusted. Curtains, on the other hand, tend to be better at blocking out light. If light control is your main priority, curtains are the way to go. 

1. Blinds are affordable 

Blinds are also generally more affordable than curtains. If you're on a budget, blinds are a great option. They can also be easier to install, which is helpful if you're not particularly handy. Curtains can be a bit more challenging to put up, but they often look nicer once they're in place. 

When it comes to style, it's a matter of personal preference. Choosing between blinds and curtains is like going to a mystery room to solve puzzles! You never know what might suit your home, decor, and senses the most! If you're looking for some fantastic mystery rooms in Bangalore, check out breakout escape rooms, as they're entertaining! But coming back to choosing, Some people prefer the clean look of blinds, while others find curtains more stylish. Different fabrics and materials are also available for blinds and curtains, so you can choose something that matches your décor. 

2. Consider your needs 

Ultimately, the best way to decide between blinds and curtains is to consider your needs and what would work best for your space. If privacy and light control are your main concerns, curtains are probably the way. If you're on a budget or not particularly handy, blinds might be a better option. And if the style is essential to you, it's a matter of personal preference. No matter what you choose, you can find window treatments that will look good in your home.   

3. Aesthetic 

First, think about what look you want to achieve. For a more formal look, curtains are usually the way to go. They come in various materials, colors, and styles, so you can find the exact match for your home décor. And they can add a touch of sophistication as well as luxury to any room. Blinds, on the other hand, have a more casual feel. They're great for rooms that need a bit of light control but don't necessarily require blackout conditions.   

4. Budget 

Next, consider your budget. Curtains can be pretty expensive, depending on your chosen fabric and style. Blinds are usually more affordable, although some high-end options can be just as pricey as curtains. It depends on what you're looking for and how much you want to spend. Curtains must also match the house's aesthetic, and cleaning curtains is another hassle.  

5. Function 

Then there's the question of function. If you want to totally block out light, blinds are the way to go – especially blackout blinds. Curtains can also provide reasonable light control, but they don't always do a fantastic job blocking out all the light. If privacy is your main concern, then curtains are usually the better choice since they can be drawn shut completely. Blinds tend to leave little gaps that could let in prying eyes.  

6. Maintenance 

Finally, think about maintenance. Curtains can be a pain to keep clean, especially if they're made of delicate fabric. Blinds are much easier to dust and keep clean, although they may need to be replaced more often than curtains. It depends on how frequently you use them as well as how well you can take care of them. 

In the end, consider maintenance and cost. Blinds are generally easier to clean than curtains – wipe them down with a damp cloth now and then. Curtains usually need to be taken down and dry cleaned or washed periodically, which can be a bit of a hassle (and expense). As far as cost is in concern, it depends on your chosen materials. Curtains can be inexpensive if you go with basic fabrics, but they can also get pricey if you opt for designer or custom-made curtains. Blinds tend to be less expensive overall, but high-end options can also be costly.   

So, which is the right choice for your home?  

It completely depends on your specific needs and goals. But now that you are more aware of the benefits and drawbacks of each choice, you will be best prepared to choose the window treatment that is ideal for your house. Remember your needs, budget, and personal preferences to find the perfect option for your space. 

Author Bio:  Aniya more is one of the brightest content writer at Breakout escape room. She is a passionate writer who loves to read books and explore different escape rooms. With a great work ethic, she spends most of her time researching and reading. When she is not working, she likes to relax with a cup of coffee and enjoy watching her favorite tv show or walking her dog peanut. You can find her on LinkedIn.

Guest Post - 7 DIY Restoration Projects to Make Your Home Look New

Gorgeous interiors and home renovation projects follow us wherever we go — on magazines at the grocery store, Instagram, Pinterest and targeted ads. These beautiful houses seem out of reach for the ordinary person. However, with a bit of elbow grease, you too can spruce up your space to social media worthiness. 

Even small touches can significantly impact the look and feel of your house. These DIY restoration projects will help take your home from dated to delightful. 

Everyone’s Opinions Are Different

As a brief disclaimer, everyone has a different opinion about what makes a design look outdated or on-trend. That’s part of what makes this field of interest so fun. It’s OK if you love some of the items on this list and don’t want to redo them. You get to do whatever you like in your own home. 

DIY Projects to Update Your Home

Does anyone remember HGTV’s “Design on a Dime?” Some of the best DIY projects don’t cost much or take long, and they make a significant difference. 

1. Remove Popcorn Ceilings

One telltale sign of an outdated home is popcorn ceilings. This trend was popular from the late ‘40s even up until the ‘90s. Popcorn ceilings serve a couple of functions. First, they cover imperfections between sections of drywall, allowing for less exact mudding and sanding work. Second, they work well to minimize echo and muffle sound in a room, so they work well in high-traffic areas. 

However, they hold a lot of dust and get highly discolored over time. There’s also a decent chance your popcorn ceiling could contain asbestos. Have a professional test it before starting this DIY. If you get the all-clear, the method is straightforward but labor-intensive. The result, though, will be absolutely worth it. 

2. Swap Out Hardware and Fixtures

This project will be your ideal DIY if you can handle some shopping and a screwdriver. Shop for new switch and outlet plates and any hardware you’d like to update, like door and kitchen cabinet handles. These minor upgrades will go a long way to bringing your home up to date. You can take this even further by changing out lighting and faucets. 

3. Restore Built-Ins 

One of the perks of owning an older home with charm rather than a cookie-cutter model is they typically come with some form of built-in. This could be bookshelves in the living room or a dine-in bench and table in the kitchen. These were mainstay staples for a reason, and they’re still popular in homes today. 

However, the finishes and overall appearance may need some upgrading. Try sanding and painting wood to look lighter or brighter. For those vinyl-covered benches in your kitchen nook, the repair is a relatively simple process with the right tools and much more of a statement feature than ripping it out or replacing it. 

4. Clean up the Landscaping

The last thing you probably want is for your home to be the scary one on the block — the one kids avoid, claiming it's haunted. While it may sound extreme, your overgrown landscaping could give that effect. It’s all too easy for shrubs, trees and other growth to get out of hand, and much more challenging to get it under control again. Spend a weekend or two trimming things back and removing dead plants. The results of your labor will be stunning, so be sure to take before and after photos. 

5. Powerwash the Exterior

No matter how you try to decorate or renovate your home, nothing can overcome a grubby exterior. Once you’ve taken care of the plants invading your lawn, it’s time to take a look at the house itself, along with any paths or driveways on your lot. Rent a power washer for the weekend and go to town on your siding and walkways. Removing the dirt will wash years off the visible age of your home. 

6. Paint Doors and Trim

Adding a fresh coat of paint to the walls is an incredibly common DIY home restoration project. However, many homeowners neglect to address their doors and trim. Walls may be the main event, but if they’re accentuated by dingy trim and scuffed-up doors, the whole place will still feel in need of a facelift. 

You can paint everything in a neutral shade that coordinates with your color palette or go a bit bolder. The home interior industry is seeing a rise in colored doors, like bright yellow, deep blue and black. This trend might be what you need to make your home look new if the rest of your house is fairly neutral or you just love color. 

7. Revamp Wood Paneling

If you don’t live in a rustic hunting lodge, odds are your dark ‘70s-era wood paneling is dating your home. You can certainly bring the whole lot of it down and restore the wall underneath. However, an even easier route would be to paint over it. Try a light neutral to breathe new life into the space.  

DIY Those Dated Features 

While not everything on your dream renovation list can be DIYed, the projects on this list will help bring your home into the present. The best part is they’re relatively inexpensive changes and don’t take long to complete. In fact, with a bit of help, you could probably knock the lot out in a few weekends.

With a little cash and elbow grease, you’ll be well on your way to achieving that gorgeous magazine-cover look.

Author Bio: 

Jack Shaw is a freelance writer specializing in the men’s lifestyle niche. He enjoys hiking, reading and spending time with his dog.