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	<title>homelife101 &#187; cleaning and organizing</title>
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	<link>http://homelife101.com</link>
	<description>Products, tips and simple solutions for family and home</description>
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		<title>Rug Doctor to the Rescue</title>
		<link>http://homelife101.com/rug-doctor-carpet-steam-cleane/</link>
		<comments>http://homelife101.com/rug-doctor-carpet-steam-cleane/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 07 Sep 2010 21:56:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>homelife101</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home & Garden]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Carpet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cleaning and organizing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[household cleaning tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rug Doctor]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://homelife101.com/?p=3066</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://homelife101.com/rug-doctor-carpet-steam-cleane/"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="100" height="100" src="http://homelife101.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Rug-Doctor-Mighty-Pro-Professional-Strength-with-Universal-Hand-Tool-150x150.jpg" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="" title="Rug Doctor Mighty Pro Professional Strength with Universal Hand Tool" /></a>I&#8217;m 3 months pregnant and definitely not in the mood to clean my carpets. At the same time, I dread the idea of forking out $200 for someone else to do it. I have a Bissell Steam Cleaner that I&#8217;ve owned for several years but lately have found that it doesn&#8217;t get the carpets as [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_3067" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BWDTSC?tag=homlif101-20&amp;camp=0&amp;creative=0&amp;linkCode=as1&amp;creativeASIN=B000BWDTSC&amp;adid=0TRGKPJBC11CJGRM5R5Y" target="_blank"><img class="size-full wp-image-3067" title="Rug Doctor Mighty Pro Professional Strength with Universal Hand Tool" src="http://homelife101.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Rug-Doctor-Mighty-Pro-Professional-Strength-with-Universal-Hand-Tool.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Rug Doctor Mighty Pro Professional Strength</p></div>
<p>I&#8217;m 3 months pregnant and definitely not in the mood to clean my carpets. At the same time, I dread the idea of forking out $200 for someone else to do it. I have a Bissell Steam Cleaner that I&#8217;ve owned for several years but lately have found that it doesn&#8217;t get the carpets as clean as I like.</p>
<p>So my husband and I decided to rent a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BWDTSC?tag=homlif101-20&amp;camp=0&amp;creative=0&amp;linkCode=as1&amp;creativeASIN=B000BWDTSC&amp;adid=0TRGKPJBC11CJGRM5R5Y" target="_blank">Rug Doctor Mighty Pro Professional Strength</a> from our local grocery store. It only cost about $26 bucks to rent the largest unit for a day and I found a coupon on <a href="http://www.rugdoctor.com/" target="_blank">rugdoctor.com</a> for $5.00 off the rental. There were also coupons for the Rug Doctor cleaning solution. However, I purchased Walmart&#8217;s Great Value carpet cleaning solution which works just as well as any brand name I&#8217;ve tried.</p>
<p>Usually I&#8217;m not thrilled when one of my husband&#8217;s friends decides to pop over the house unannounced however, since both my husband and I were in a cleaning mood we decided that if he wanted to stay then we were going to put him to work. What a wonderful idea! Not only will this help me check <em>Clean the Carpets</em> off of my &#8220;To Do List&#8221; but it might also cure his urges to show up whenever he wants or at least think twice about it next time. Lucky for us he did not balk at our suggestion to help. After taking a longer than usually glance at my already protruding stomach (give me a break, it&#8217;s my second child), he stepped right in to assist my husband.</p>
<p>The results were fabulous. So much so that for a split second I even considered purchasing a Rug Doctor to replace my current machine&#8230;that is of course until I went online to check the amount. With a price tag close to $600, it&#8217;s hard to justify the purchase since I only steam clean the carpets 4 times a year. As the carpets get even older (they&#8217;re going on 11 years now) I may have to clean them more frequently but for now I&#8217;ll continue to rent the Rug Doctor.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Make &#8220;To Do&#8221; Lists to Prepare for House Guests</title>
		<link>http://homelife101.com/make-to-do-lists-to-prepare-for-house-guests/</link>
		<comments>http://homelife101.com/make-to-do-lists-to-prepare-for-house-guests/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 05 Jul 2009 11:00:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>homelife101</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home & Garden]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA["To Do" List]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cleaning and organizing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Entertaining Guests]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Preparing for House guests]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://pamperedhouseguest.com/?p=72</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://homelife101.com/make-to-do-lists-to-prepare-for-house-guests/"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="100" height="100" src="http://homelife101.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/To-Do-Lists-150x150.jpg" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="To Do Lists" title="To Do Lists" /></a>The easiest way to get prepared for house guests is to make “To Do” lists. Here are some tips to help you accomplish the necessary tasks to create a guest-friendly house. Keep it simple. Create a separate list for each of the high level things you need to do. For instance, you might have cleaning [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000B6N3ZW?tag=homlif101-20&amp;camp=0&amp;creative=0&amp;linkCode=as1&amp;creativeASIN=B000B6N3ZW&amp;adid=1YBYVB58ZZ57TYYJ9Q60&amp;" target="_blank"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-2474" title="To Do Lists" src="http://homelife101.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/To-Do-Lists.jpg" alt="To Do Lists" width="280" height="280" /></a>The easiest way to get prepared for house guests is to make “To Do” lists. Here are some tips to help you accomplish the necessary tasks to create a guest-friendly house.</p>
<p><strong>Keep it simple.</strong><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Create a separate list for each of the high level things you need to do. For instance, you might have cleaning list, a home repair list, etc.</p>
<p><strong>List the tasks.</strong><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Jot down all of the actions you need to take then assign them to categories. Put the categories in an order that makes sense for you.</p>
<p><strong>Implement routines and systems.</strong><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Manage the preparation process effectively by implementing routines and systems for cleaning, organizing, home maintenance, etc. Once you have routines in place, start to think of special touches and begin to make plans to pamper your guests.</p>
<p>Remember that your lists are not carved in stone, so if you need a little wiggle room, by all means add it!</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Steam clean upholstery and clothing with a Home Touch Steamer</title>
		<link>http://homelife101.com/steam-clean-upholstery-and-clothing-with-a-home-touch-steamer/</link>
		<comments>http://homelife101.com/steam-clean-upholstery-and-clothing-with-a-home-touch-steamer/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:17:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>homelife101</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home & Garden]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cleaning and organizing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Touch Steamer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[must have household items]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Steam cleaning clothing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[steam cleaning upholstery]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wardrobe accessories]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://homelife101.com/?p=2104</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://homelife101.com/steam-clean-upholstery-and-clothing-with-a-home-touch-steamer/"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="100" height="100" src="http://homelife101.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/Home-Touch-Commercial-Garment-Steamer-150x150.jpg" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="Home Touch Commercial Garment Steamer" title="Home Touch Commercial Garment Steamer" /></a>I purchased a Home Touch Steamer for my husband who wanted to steam clean his suits and shirts for work. I found one on sale at JC Penney and took advantage of the deal. I personally use the Home Touch Steamer to freshen up upholstery and to steam clean dresses and the occasional blouse. The Home Touch [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000AR6Y0?tag=homlif101-20&amp;camp=0&amp;creative=0&amp;linkCode=as1&amp;creativeASIN=B0000AR6Y0&amp;adid=0BWDPK6KS0N8A83G4FNX"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-2181" title="Home Touch Commercial Garment Steamer" src="http://homelife101.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/Home-Touch-Commercial-Garment-Steamer.jpg" alt="Home Touch Commercial Garment Steamer" width="280" height="280" /></a>I purchased a Home Touch Steamer for my husband who wanted to steam clean his suits and shirts for work. I found one on sale at JC Penney and took advantage of the deal.</p>
<p>I personally use the Home Touch Steamer to freshen up upholstery and to steam clean dresses and the occasional blouse.</p>
<p>The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000AR6Y0?tag=homlif101-20&amp;camp=0&amp;creative=0&amp;linkCode=as1&amp;creativeASIN=B0000AR6Y0&amp;adid=0BWDPK6KS0N8A83G4FNX&amp;" target="_blank">Home Touch Steamer </a>is a great wardrobe accessory with commercial garment features:</p>
<p class="content" style="text-align: left;">   * 45 second heat up</p>
<p class="content" style="text-align: left;">   * 5&#8242; hose with exclusive safe touch cover.</p>
<p class="content" style="text-align: left;">   * Provides 40 minutes of continuous steam with auto shut off.</p>
<p class="content" style="text-align: left;">   * Easy roll casters and easy fill tank.</p>
<p class="content" style="text-align: left;">   * 1500 watts of power</p>
<div class="content">
<ul style="margin-left: 25px; list-style-type: disc;">
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000AR6Y0?tag=homlif101-20&amp;camp=0&amp;creative=0&amp;linkCode=as1&amp;creativeASIN=B0000AR6Y0&amp;adid=0BWDPK6KS0N8A83G4FNX&amp;" target="_blank"><img class="size-full wp-image-2105 aligncenter" title="home-touch-commercial-garment-steamer" src="http://homelife101.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/home-touch-commercial-garment-steamer.jpg" alt="home-touch-commercial-garment-steamer" width="280" height="280" /></a></p>
</ul>
</div>
<p></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Decorate and Get Organized with Storage Ottomans</title>
		<link>http://homelife101.com/decorate-and-get-organized-with-storage-ottomans/</link>
		<comments>http://homelife101.com/decorate-and-get-organized-with-storage-ottomans/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2009 10:00:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>homelife101</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home & Garden]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cleaning and organizing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[decorating ideas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ottoman storage cubes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[storage ottomans]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://homelife101.com/?p=2090</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://homelife101.com/decorate-and-get-organized-with-storage-ottomans/"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="100" height="100" src="http://homelife101.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/Storage-ottoman-with-lid-off-150x150.jpg" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="Storage ottoman with lid off" title="Storage ottoman with lid off" /></a>Storage ottomans are a wonderful way to decorate a room and get organized all at the same time. An ottoman storage cube usually has a top that lifts open or can be removed all together which allows you to use the space inside to store magazines, books, etc. Storage ottomans are very versatile and can be [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001AX898G?tag=homlif101-20&amp;camp=0&amp;creative=0&amp;linkCode=as1&amp;creativeASIN=B001AX898G&amp;adid=0YTM1NTH9Y03X941HEX9&amp;" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001AX898G?tag=homlif101-20&amp;camp=0&amp;creative=0&amp;linkCode=as1&amp;creativeASIN=B001AX898G&amp;adid=0YTM1NTH9Y03X941HEX9"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-2183" title="Storage ottoman with lid off" src="http://homelife101.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/Storage-ottoman-with-lid-off.jpg" alt="Storage ottoman with lid off" width="280" height="280" /></a>Storage ottomans are a wonderful way to decorate a room and get organized all at the same time. An ottoman storage cube usually has a top that lifts open or can be removed all together which allows you to use the space inside to store magazines, books, etc.</p>
<p>Storage ottomans are very versatile and can be used in many ways.</p>
<ul>
<li>As seating, ottomans are great to use when you are entertaining guests.</li>
<li>Pair 2 or more together to create an impromtu bench.</li>
<li>Encourage floor lounging and arrange them as a coffee table.</li>
<li>Use an ottoman as a foot rest or as a bedside table.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>I have 4 black faux leather storage ottomans in my living room which I use to store my daughter&#8217;s toys. It enables us to keep from bringing toys up and down the stairs but still gives the room a more sophisticated look by keeping the toys removed from sight. I also use the ottomans to store throw blankets, movies and books. Usually I arrange them so that they form a square but I often move the ottomans to create a more open look in the room to accommodate visitors.</p>
<p>This <a href="Homz 5810001 Square-Shaped Faux-Leather Storage Ottoman" target="_blank">Square-shaped Faux-Leather Storage Ottoman</a> is intriguing because it apparently folds flat when not in use. Now that&#8217;s what I call versatile!</p>
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		<item>
		<title>How to Get Rid of Clutter</title>
		<link>http://homelife101.com/get-rid-of-clutter/</link>
		<comments>http://homelife101.com/get-rid-of-clutter/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 12 Dec 2008 14:03:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>homelife101</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home & Garden]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cleaning and organizing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[get rid of clutter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Household Tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[simple solutions]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blog.homelife101.com/?p=185</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://homelife101.com/get-rid-of-clutter/"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="100" height="100" src="http://homelife101.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/Clear-Your-Clutter-with-Feng-Shui-150x150.jpg" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="Clear Your Clutter with Feng Shui" title="Clear Your Clutter with Feng Shui" /></a>Every season I do a thorough cleaning of my entire house and get rid of clutter. I go through every room, closet, nook and cranny. It usually takes about a week but when I'm finished I only have things in my home that I need, use or absolutely love. If you are tired of walking by messy, untidy rooms day after day, the following steps will help you get rid of clutter and take control of your home.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/0767903595?tag=homlif101-20&amp;camp=0&amp;creative=0&amp;linkCode=as1&amp;creativeASIN=0767903595&amp;adid=1ED8T2M2BB3AG90DJEPC"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-2257" title="Clear Your Clutter with Feng Shui" src="http://homelife101.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/Clear-Your-Clutter-with-Feng-Shui.jpg" alt="Clear Your Clutter with Feng Shui" width="240" height="240" /></a>Every season I do a thorough cleaning of my entire house and get rid of clutter. I go through every room, closet, nook and cranny. It usually takes about a week but when I&#8217;m finished I only have things in my home that I need, use or absolutely love. If you are tired of walking by messy, untidy rooms day after day, the following steps will help you get rid of clutter and take control of your home. </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Decide which items to keep. </strong>At first glance, keeping an item may appear to be the easiest route to take. But before you continue down that road, keep in mind that you are trying to get rid of clutter not merely reassign it to another location. It may help to look at your things as if you didn’t own them. If you were helping a friend get rid of clutter and get organized what would you suggest that they do with the item?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Determine usefulness. </strong>This may seem obvious but if you seldom or rarely use an item, think twice before holding onto it any longer. If something can easily be purchased again and you are not currently using it, sell or donate it. If an item is likely to appreciate, hold on to it or sell it now for quick cash. Family heirlooms, hand-made gifts, childhood memorabilia, etc. may possess little monetary value but may indeed be priceless. Keep them well-maintained and packed away in a safe place or on display for your <a href="http://homelife101.com/everything-you-need-to-know-to-prepare-for-house-guests/">guests</a> to see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Give each item a home. </strong>Once you decide what you are going to keep, figure out where it belongs. As you go through the rooms in your house or apartment, ask yourself, “Does this item work best here?&#8221; This will help you stay focused on your clutter control mission.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Sell unwanted items. </strong>What you view as clutter could be viewed as treasure to another. List your items online or hold a yard/garage sale. If it is cost effective, put an advertisement in the local paper. Pay the extra fees so that the ad can be viewed online. Don’t forget about word of mouth advertising. Tell your family and friends that you have items for sale. They can help get the word out and may even become your best customers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Give to charity. </strong>If an item hasn’t sold after a predetermined amount of time consider donating it to a charitable organization. Research several national organizations or choose a local cause that’s dear to your heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Recycle. </strong>If the item is no longer needed and is in good condition, look into recycling. Gather bins to separate paper, plastic, etc. Identify an area where the items will be accepted and processed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Toss items in disrepair. </strong>Avoid selling or donating items that have missing or broken pieces. If an item is in serious disrepair, tossing it is probably the best thing to do.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://blog.homelife101.com/?p=175"></a></span></span></p>
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		<item>
		<title>6 Daily Household Cleaning Tips</title>
		<link>http://homelife101.com/6-daily-household-cleaning-tips/</link>
		<comments>http://homelife101.com/6-daily-household-cleaning-tips/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 06 Dec 2008 19:11:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>homelife101</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home & Garden]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cleaning and organizing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[household cleaning tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Household Tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[simple solutions]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blog.homelife101.com/?p=197</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://homelife101.com/6-daily-household-cleaning-tips/"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="100" height="100" src="http://homelife101.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/Martha-Stewarts-Homekeeping-Handbook-150x150.jpg" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="Martha Stewart" title="Martha Stewart" /></a>With a few easy to implement household cleaning tips, you can keep you home clean and guest-ready at a moments notice. Try these cleaning tips to make your daily housekeeping tasks more manageable.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/0517577003?tag=homlif101-20&amp;camp=0&amp;creative=0&amp;linkCode=as1&amp;creativeASIN=0517577003&amp;adid=179KD7NSM11ZG908N2ES"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-2261" title="Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook" src="http://homelife101.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/Martha-Stewarts-Homekeeping-Handbook.jpg" alt="Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook" width="240" height="240" /></a>With a few easy to implement household cleaning tips, you can keep you home clean and guest-ready at a moments notice. Try these cleaning tips to make your daily housekeeping tasks more manageable.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;"><a href="http://blog.homelife101.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/cleaning-a-mirror.jpg"></a></span><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">#1 &#8211; Make the beds. </span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">This first household cleaning tip will help you get your day off to a great start. Make your bed when you first wake up and ask other household members to do the same. Fluff your pillows and straighten the sheets for a crisp, clean look. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">#2 </span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">- Address the critical tasks in the bathroom. </span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">A clean bathroom is essential to having a clean house. Be sure to </span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">clean the mirror(s), wipe the bathroom counter top, sink(s) and faucet(s). Next, clean the tub basin and spray the tub and shower area including the curtain liner with ‘daily after shower spray’ to prevent soap scum and mildew. Last, wipe the toilet seat and rim then use a brush to clean the toilet bowl. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">#3 &#8211; </span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Pick up as you go. </span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Implementing this household cleaning tip alone will help your house feel less cluttered. Throughout the day (or evening) as you go from room to room, remove items from the floor such as toys, books, newspaper, etc. and put them in their appropriate place. Encourage all household members to get in the habit of doing this as they leave a room. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">#4 &#8211; </span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;"><strong>Straighten up the living areas. </strong></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Fluff the pillows and cushions on the sofa; fold and put away blankets and throws. Clear clutter off of the tables and organize magazines and papers. Spray and wipe the table with glass cleaner or dust it off. Sweep or vacuum as needed but at least once a week. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">#5 &#8211; </span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Address the critical tasks in the kitchen. </span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Load all dirty dishes into the dish washer and start a new cycle or hand wash the dishes and put them in the dish rack. Get in the habit of rinsing each dish immediately after use then place the item into the dishwasher or sink. Wipe down the sink, faucet, counter tops and stove top then lay out a clean dish cloth for the next day. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">#6 &#8211; </span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Take out the trash. </span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">To execute this household cleaning tip efficiently, use plastic shopping bags to line small trash cans (such as the ones in the bathroom). When the bags are full, dump them into a larger can (such as the one in the kitchen). Take out the trash and clean the garbage can if odors linger.</span> </p>
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		<title>Organize Your Refrigerator in 4 Easy Steps</title>
		<link>http://homelife101.com/organize-your-refrigerator-in-4-easy-steps/</link>
		<comments>http://homelife101.com/organize-your-refrigerator-in-4-easy-steps/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 05 Dec 2008 16:58:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>homelife101</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home & Garden]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[clean a refrigerator]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cleaning and organizing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Household Tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[organize a refrigerator]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[simple solutions]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blog.homelife101.com/?p=175</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://homelife101.com/organize-your-refrigerator-in-4-easy-steps/"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="100" height="100" src="http://homelife101.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/Emerson-2-door-compact-refrigerator-150x150.jpg" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="Emerson 2-door compact refrigerator" title="Emerson 2-door compact refrigerator" /></a>A clean and organized refrigerator can help you get the most out of your hard earned cash. Make the following steps a part of your kitchen cleaning routine.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">A clean and organized refrigerator can help you get the most out of your hard earned cash. I don&#8217;t know how many times I&#8217;ve gone<a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0014E448U?tag=homlif101-20&amp;camp=0&amp;creative=0&amp;linkCode=as1&amp;creativeASIN=B0014E448U&amp;adid=0SB5NZH08FJG55AP2ENS"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-2265" title="Emerson 2-door compact refrigerator" src="http://homelife101.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/Emerson-2-door-compact-refrigerator.jpg" alt="Emerson 2-door compact refrigerator" width="280" height="280" /></a> to the grocery store to purchase something like ketchup only to return home and find that I already had a bottle&#8230;it was just hiding in the back of an untidy fridge. Now, I make organizing the refrigerator a part of my kitchen cleaning routine. Here are a few steps to keep your refrigerator tidy and fresh.</span></span></div>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;"> </span></span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Pull everything out of the refrigerator </span></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<ul>
<li>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Set the food, condiments and other items on the counter top or on a table nearby. </span></div>
</li>
<li>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Toss anything that is spoiled, expired or that you know longer plan to eat (ex. last week’s leftovers). </span></div>
</li>
<li>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Consolidate open bottles of condiments by pouring near empty bottles into a single container.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;"> </span></span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Wash and wipe down the interior and its parts </span></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<ul>
<li>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Remove the refrigerator shelves, drawers and other detachable parts and wash them in the dishwasher or in the sink with hot soapy water. </span></div>
</li>
<li>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Wipe down the inside of the door and the non-removable parts. </span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">3. Return and organize the refrigerator’s contents </span></strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Keep like items together and place tall items in the back. </span></div>
</li>
<li>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Place items in their designated compartments (vegetables and fruit in the crisper, chicken, beef, etc. in the meat drawer). </span></div>
</li>
<li>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Keep in mind that the top refrigerator shelf is one of the warmer spots in the fridge so place items that spoil quickly on the bottom shelf since it is the coldest. </span></div>
</li>
<li>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Reserve a shelf for leftovers and other ready to eat food. </span></div>
</li>
<li>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">In addition to the topmost shelf, the door compartment is another area that does not get very cold. Store condiments inside the door.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">4. Wash and wipe the exterior surface </span></strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Remove magnets and other items from the refrigerator door and wipe down the surface. </span></div>
</li>
<li>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana;">Before placing the items back on the door, sort through them. Toss any outdated information and clutter. </span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;">Related Posts</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong></strong><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><a href="http://blog.homelife101.com/?p=197"><span style="font-size: small;">6 Daily Household Cleaning Tips</span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><a href="http://blog.homelife101.com/?p=185"><span style="font-size: small;">Get Rid of Clutter<br />
</span></a></span></p>
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		<title>Toby&#8217;s New Trick &#8211; Carpet Cleaning Tips</title>
		<link>http://homelife101.com/tobys-new-trick/</link>
		<comments>http://homelife101.com/tobys-new-trick/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 01 Dec 2008 18:28:31 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>homelife101</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home & Garden]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cleaning and organizing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stanley Steemer commercial]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[toby's new trick]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[youtube]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://homelife101.com/?p=1242</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://homelife101.com/tobys-new-trick/"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="100" height="100" src="http://homelife101.com/wp-content/plugins/thumbnail-for-excerpts/tfe_no_thumb.png" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="" title="" /></a>Have you seen the Stanley Steemer commercial where the dog wipes his but on the carpet?]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;">Have you seen the Stanley Steemer commercial where the dog wipes his butt on the carpet? It’s called Toby’s New Trick. This commercial is so funny to me because </span><a href="http://homelife101.com/about-us/meet-the-fam/more-about-our-italian-greyhound-sasha/"><span style="font-size: small;">our dog Sasha</span></a><span style="font-size: small;"> does the exact same thing from time to time. It goes without saying that this is one of her <em><span style="font-family: Verdana;">least</span></em> desirable antics. I just hope it doesn’t happen when we have </span><a href="http://homelife101.com/everything-you-need-to-know-to-prepare-for-house-guests/"><span style="font-size: small;">house guests</span></a><span style="font-size: small;"> as the commercial portrays! </span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span></span></div>
<div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wul2qgpq_4g"><object width="425" height="344" data="http://www.youtube.com/v/wul2qgpq_4g&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/wul2qgpq_4g&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /></object></a></div>
<div><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">If you have high foot (or paw) traffic in your home and you are looking for ways to keep your carpet clean and fresh, consider the tips below.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><strong><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Remove stains promptly. </span></strong><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Spot treat and remove stains as soon as they occur to prevent them from settling into carpet fibers.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><strong><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Vacuum at least once a week. </span></strong><span style="font-family: Verdana;">This is the bare minimum even if you have carpet that doesn’t see much traffic and if you have a large family with multiple pets, you may need to add vacuuming to your <a href="http://homelife101.com/6-daily-household-cleaning-tips/">daily household cleaning</a> tasks.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><strong><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Steam clean regularly. </span></strong><span style="font-family: Verdana;">According to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration, you should steam clean your carpet at least once a year. </span></span></span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span></span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></div>
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