Houzz // Get Those Carpet Stains Out: Best Nontoxic Methods for Cleaning Carpets

Carpets and rugs are comfortable underfoot but they're also magnets for stains.  From holiday gatherings to everyday use, carpets and rugs often take a lot of abuse.

But keeping your floor coverings looking their best is easier than you think.  A simple detergent solvent made with 1/4 cup vinegar, 1 teaspoon dish soap and warm water in a spray bottle can remove many household stains.


For a full rundown of common carpet stains and how to remove them check out my latest Houzz Ideabook, .

Get Those Carpet Stains Out: Best Nontoxic Methods for Spot Cleaning

So, what methods do you use to battle carpet stains?



Disclaimer:  As a Contributor for Houzz, I have been compensated for any Ideabooks featured on Houzz, although I am not compensated for sharing Houzz Ideabooks on Revamp Homegoods.  All opinions expressed here are that of the writer and are in no way influenced by Houzz.

This post was sponsored by Moen.  All opinions are my own.

Houzz // Vinegar and Voilà: Clean Your House the Natural Way

Many homeowners strive for a healthier home — whether that means choosing ecofriendly materials for a remodel or greener products for everyday life. For me, finding healthier, more effective and budget-friendly cleaning alternatives is at the top of my list. Fortunately, effective nontoxic options have been around for centuries. Many of these cleaners, including vinegar, are already in your closet.

Vinegar is one of the most versatile and effective household cleaners. At pennies per ounce, it's also one of the most inexpensive cleaners on the market. Simply mix 1 cup of water and ¼ cup distilled white vinegar in a spray bottle. This basic mixture can be used for most cleaning chores, with additional natural elements added to tackle tougher jobs. 

Check out my latest Houzz ideabook for a full rundown of ways to use vinegar in every room of your home and feel free to share your tips in the comments section.

Disclaimer:  As a Contributor for Houzz, I have been compensated for any Ideabooks featured on Houzz, although I am not compensated for sharing Houzz Ideabooks on Revamp Homegoods.  All opinions expressed here are that of the writer and are in no way influenced by Houzz.

Can You Smell That Smell - Homemade Room Spray

Febreeze, move on over - there's a new, healthier girl in town and folks, she's easy.  If you can shake it - you can make it. 

You'll need:

• 2 cups distilled warm water
• 2-3 drops essential oil
• 1 tsp baking soda
• Spray bottle

First take some distilled water - you can either purchase some at the store, make your own or try the lazy girl's version (like me!) and just use cooled boiled water - pour it into the spray bottle and mix in the rest of the ingredients.  I've used lavender essential oil, but you could use whatever fragrance your little heart (or nose) desires.  Give it a good ol' shake and freshen your room or furniture items with a little spritz.

A Smaller Home Proves Size Does Matter

I had the pleasure of working for one of the most ground-breaking organizations in terms of green building back in the day.  There was never a moment that went by that I wasn't amazed by the people I worked with and the passion they had for a more sustainable built environment.  Because of that amazing influence, I've always been driven to the "tiny house movement" and the idea that great design is the key and you don't need a large home to live comfortably or happily.

In a time when the U.S. home size averages to roughly 2,000 square feet - which is 4 times the international average - I love seeing the development of these tiny homes which are sustainably built.  They are absolutely beautiful, well designed and are proof that the right design and efficient living makes all the difference.  We try to live under that philosophy - keeping our ownership of "stuff" to a minimum when we can and using our vertical space to take advantage of every inch of space our home has to offer - but for a couple of book lovers, sentimentalists and my fascination with furniture we aren't always successful.

These homes by Tumblweed Tiny House Company range in size from 65 square feet to 874 square feet.  The B-53 and the Whidbey are two of my favorites for the larger sized options.

B-53 - 3 bedroom home with 874 sq. ft.  Estimated cost to build:  $58,000

DIY // Homemade All-Natural Liquid Laundry Detergent

I've just used the last of my supply of powdered all-natural laundry detergent and it worked great.  Rather than just refilling, I thought I'd try out the liquid version and boy, do I like it!  First off, both the powdered and liquid detergents are HE safe.  Second, it makes so much more for about the same cost and Third, you can add scent to it.  {I added lavender essential oil}. I think I'm a homemade liquid detergent convert!

What You'll Need:

DIY // Homemade All-Natural Laundry Detergent

Our house is going au-naturel!  And no, that doesn't mean we'll be sitting around in our birthday suits (you're welcome.)  Along with eating more vegetables, I want to get as many harmful chemicals out of our house which means replacing all cleaning products with homemade all-natural versions. My first attempt at homemade cleaning products was laundry detergent.  We used to use Kirkland's (Costco) eco-friendly liquid detergent and when the giant bottle finally ran out we replaced it with an all-natural powdered detergent.

Here's how I made my own super inexpensive and HE safe (very low suds) homemade all-natural laundry detergent.

Supplies (these were found in our chain grocery store's laundry aisle):

Salvaged Goods: Trash to Treasure (Literally!)

Home Depot definitely has its allure as a one stop shop for home improvement, but are you guys familiar with salvage materials stores?   You can get salvaged furniture, homegoods and building materials, such as doors, windows, hardware, tile and tubs, at insane prices. You'd be amazed at what people throw out.

Rad Sign from Salvage Works, LLC