Top 4 air purifiers and how to choose the best one

Top 4 air purifiers and how to choose the best one

With increasing sensitivity to allergens and rising pollution levels, air purifiers have become essential appliances. According to Bloomberg, the air purifier market will likely exceed $7 billion by 2032. This is not surprising at all, given how polluted the indoor environment can be, with the principal sources being dust, fires, car emissions, and cooking. Today you can find all kinds of purifiers, so here is all you need to know before buying one:  Top air purifiers Here are some of the best options for your home: Levoit LV-H132 One of the top-rated purifiers, the LV H132 by Levoit, is compact and small, with a capacity for filtering up to 129 square feet. It has a HEPA filter (or high-efficiency particulate air filter) capable of eliminating 99.97% of pollen, dust, odor, smoke, pet dander, and mold spores. It promises an outstanding performance backed by features like a three-stage filtration arrangement consisting of a HEPA filter, an activated carbon filter, and a pre-filter. Additionally, it comes with three fan settings, allowing you to control the purifier’s volume and speed. Furthermore, it is so tiny that you can easily place it on your desk. Levoit VeSync Core 400S Smart air purifier While most top purifiers on this list effectively eliminate pollutants from the air, the VeSync Core 400S by Levoit goes one step further and allows you to check the air quality indoors as well as outdoors. It has a VeSync app that provides real-time data about your home’s air quality, and you can also synchronize the unit with voice assistants. Besides that, it has an Auto Mode that conserves a lot of energy by automatically adjusting the fan speed according to the current air quality. Apart from these high-tech capabilities, the VeSync Core 400S possesses all the necessary features of a purifier, including a HEPA filter, and it can circulate air 5 times per hour with a wide cleaning radius of up to 403 square feet.
17 Essential Cleaning Products to Consider Buying

17 Essential Cleaning Products to Consider Buying

Besides ensuring hygienic living conditions, a clean home is essential to facilitate a sense of peace and calm and prevent chaos. While home cleaning is often considered tiresome, it can be a fun group activity when all the inhabitants of a home collaborate in the process. Moreover, using the right cleaning products can ensure hassle-free and efficient cleaning and reduce manual effort. Following are some must-have cleaning products that can make life easy for homeowners: Microfiber cloths Microfiber cloths contain several positively charged polyester fibers and negatively charged nylon fibers, which help collect grease, grime, dust, and bacteria. Moreover, they are easier to clean than sponges and paper towels, facilitating better hygiene. Stacking up these microfiber cloths separately in a dedicated space is advisable so that they do not accumulate dust. Extendable microfiber duster Cleaning higher surfaces can be challenging, often requiring one to climb on stools or chairs. However, extendable microfiber dusters significantly reduce one’s effort in the process. These microfiber dusters can reach significant heights, such as fan blades and the tops of wardrobes, and ensure thorough dusting. All-purpose cleaner All-purpose cleaners are go-to cleaning products to clean multiple surfaces and areas, including furniture, bathroom, kitchen, and floors, and ensure a tidy home. Although specific cleaners should also be a part of one’s cleaning kit, it is not always possible to carry out extensive cleaning. Moreover, an all-purpose cleaner comes in handy when any cleaning product gets over, and the surface remains to be cleaned. Collapsible bucket These buckets are spacious when one requires them for cleaning and space-efficient when not in use. Collapsible buckets may be tucked away in a corner and can help one utilize space, especially in smaller homes. Baking soda This product is not only useful in fluffing up one’s cakes and pastries but also in facilitating a spick-and-span home.
8 Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

8 Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Most of us make it a goal to keep our house clean and tidy. Cleaning the house may look like a straightforward task, but there are certain aspects that are generally overlooked. Cleaning is a time consuming and tedious activity. And most of us make common cleaning mistakes that do not provide us with the results we expect. So here is a list of cleaning mistakes to avoid for better results and a sparkling clean home. Mixing cleaning chemicals You may think mixing two or more cleaning products will increase the cleaning power. However, this can be very dangerous as it might release toxic fumes. For example, household cleaners like Clorox Pinesol should never be mixed with bleach as they can react together to produce hazardous chlorine gas or even chloroform. Similarly, Pinesol disinfectant should not be mixed with room spray sanitizer as the chemicals could react together to unleash a toxic cloud of gases that can trigger respiratory problems and even cause skin burns. Instead of mixing chemicals, use a single cleaning agent or solution and stick to a reliable brand. Alternatively, you can also enlist the help of a cleaning company, like Servpro Services, which offers a range of affordable home cleaning services. Using feather dusters A feather duster may seem very useful, but all it does is spread the dust from one surface to another. Instead of a feather duster, use a microfiber cloth or damp cotton cloth that will grab hold of dust particles. Using a dry rag also has the same effect; it moves the dust around and can even cause scratches on smooth surfaces. Reusing cleaning rags Using the same cleaning rags for multiple surfaces only helps spread dust and germs around the house. It also leaves messy-looking streaks on surfaces like countertops and tables. Even if the cleaning rag does not look old, it needs to be replaced regularly for effective cleaning.
5 smart ways of using tablet computers

5 smart ways of using tablet computers

You see tablet computers everywhere. More and more people are now moving toward tablets in offices, coffee shops, homes, and even schools. This is because they offer more power and uses than a smartphone and better portability than a desktop or even a laptop. Tablets have many more uses than simply checking your emails or browsing social media. Here are some interesting ways to find more uses for your tablet computer: Second screen Some people like to work on two screens at a time due to the demand of their work. This also enhances productivity and cuts down on time. It is easy to mirror your Android to another Android or even a computer. To use your tablet as an extended display, you need to install an application on your computer and connect the tablet to it using a USB cable or Wi-Fi. Some of the best app options to do this include Spacedesk, Google Remote Desktop, iDisplay, Duet Display, etc. As a remote to control electronics Tablet computers can be easily used to control your electronics. A tablet is larger than a remote and much easier to find and operate with better features. You can control your PC and television with it. It can also dim your home lights, open your garage door, and operate your smart fridge and washing machine. For instance, if you have a Sony Smart TV, you can use the TV Sideview application for your Apple and Android systems. E-Reader If you are an avid reader and have an old tablet, you don’t need to purchase a new e-reader. Your tablet can easily be used as an e-reader to browse your favorite books, magazines, comic strips, and even news applications. Since tablet screens have more glare, we suggest getting an anti-glare film on the screen.
Guide to moving – Top 10 tips for a smooth move

Guide to moving – Top 10 tips for a smooth move

Moving homes can be an overwhelming task, especially for a family when there are so many belongings that need to be moved around safely. There are several things to check before this process, and there are some ways that can make this procedure a little less stressful. One should ensure hiring a trusted company for a seamless customer experience. On that note, here are some tips that can help with a smooth moving experience: 1. Make lists and label belongings Lists are a big part of the moving process. This involves creating an inventory of things that have been put into boxes and also determining which boxes must be placed in which room. This can make placing them in the new place much more accessible. An inventory will also help in knowing if all the boxes have safely arrived at the new location, and if anything is missing, it can easily be pointed out. Labeling helps understand which boxes contain what items. One can also assign specific color-coded labels to boxes that belong to the same category; for example, books can be inside boxes with blue sticky notes. 2. Plan early Since packing and moving is an enormous task, it is usually recommended to start planning for it as early as possible. That way, it becomes easy to strategize, and packing can happen in bits and phases. When the planning is done in an organized manner, it also ensures that there are fewer mistakes made during the process. Also, it gives the homeowner enough time to decide whether they want to take everything with them or would like to donate or sell some of the things that they do not need in their new place of residence. 3. Consider giving away things This is actually a major point to consider.
Top 10 kitchen remodeling errors to avoid

Top 10 kitchen remodeling errors to avoid

Kitchen renovation is an exciting prospect, as it can make the space more functional and visually appealing. The project could involve major changes like knocking down walls, changing countertops, and adding other elements like a breakfast bar and more cabinets. One may also consider changing the backsplash, flooring, and appliances. So, remodeling the kitchen can be a huge undertaking. To ensure it goes as smoothly as possible, here are a few mistakes to avoid: 1. Skipping planning Proper planning is one of the most overlooked aspects of a home improvement project. But, for a successful renovation, one needs to have a vision and a definite end goal, preferably on paper. The vision needs to go beyond just how the space would look and take into account how the new kitchen will serve the inhabitants. Would the kitchen be only used for cooking, or will it also serve as a hangout spot and a breakfast or dining nook? One should assess their requirements and list them, set a budget, and list goals before purchasing materials, hiring contractors, and knocking down the existing structure. 2. Underestimating costs Another huge mistake is setting the wrong budget. One doesn’t need to know the exact expenses beforehand, but they should have an estimate of the cost and leave a little room for the budget to stretch. The wiggle room will ensure that the project is not left unfinished in case of unexpected expenses. This is because, more often than not, one may end up spending more than their initial renovation budget. So, one should set a budget only after checking the prices of countertops, cabinets, flooring, appliances, and other necessities. 3. Selecting appliances after cabinets One may put off choosing appliances for the kitchen until after they get the kitchen cabinets installed. This is a problem.
10 internet companies that might offer Cyber Monday deals

10 internet companies that might offer Cyber Monday deals

Nothing seems to be possible without a decent internet signal these days. Be it your home, work, or even school, a fast and stable Internet connection makes everything possible. Not to mention, you also need it for streaming movies and playing games. The best time to grab an unlimited Internet deal is during the Cyber Monday sale. Let’s take a look at some of the best 5G Internet deals that were on offer last year. Express VPN If you get an Express VPN home Wi-Fi subscription on Cyber Monday , you could get it for just $6.67 per month and additional three months for free. The connection is secure and reliable and has a strict no-logs policy for privacy. It has over 3,000 secure servers and gets you more than 160 streaming platforms. It has a super fast speed for browsing, gaming, and torrenting. Private Internet Access This unlimited internet service has over 30,000 servers along with strong security features. It allows 10 connections at a time and comes packed with robust security features. On Cyber Monday, you could get this subscription for only $2.19 for a three-year plan. IPVanish VPN On Cyber Monday , you could pay only $2.50 when you subscribe to IPVanish VPN. You can connect unlimited devices and safeguard your online privacy through its strict zero-logs policy. This home Wi-Fi plan comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Vypr VPN This 5G Internet service uses Chameleon protocol to help you bypass restrictions and censorship. It comes with an independently audited zero logs policy and has more than 700 servers. On Cyber Monday, you could grab this subscription at just $8.33 per month and get a year’s subscription free. IvacyVPN This is a super affordable unlimited internet plan that could be available at just $1.19 per month this sale day, which could help you save 88% on your subscription cost.
Herpes simplex virus – Symptoms, causes, and management

Herpes simplex virus – Symptoms, causes, and management

Herpes simplex virus (HSV), commonly known as herpes, is an infection that may result in painful blisters or ulcers. The disease is primarily spread through skin-to-skin contact. There are two types of the herpes simplex virus, type 1 and type 2. According to researchers, around 3.7 billion people under age 50 are diagnosed with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infection, and about 491 million aged 15 to 49 globally with herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection. Symptoms There are a few things that one should note about the symptoms of the herpes simplex virus. Most people with herpes do not experience any symptoms or only mild symptoms. Others might not even be aware that they have the infection and may pass it along to others unknowingly. The symptoms of the condition may include painful, recurring blisters or ulcers. Furthermore, new infections may result in body aches, a fever, and swollen lymph nodes. An individual with the disease might experience varied symptoms during the first episode of infection than when it recurs. If symptoms occur, they might begin with itching, tingling, or burning sensations near where the sores appear. The common symptoms of oral herpes include blisters (cold sores) or open sores (ulcers) around the mouth or lips. One may also notice signs, including blisters, bumps, or open sores around the genitals or anus. These developments are typically painful. Furthermore, the blisters may break open, ooze, and then crust over. One may have repeated outbreaks of the herpes simplex virus over time, but these are usually shorter and less severe than the first outbreak. Causes We have established that the herpes simplex virus spreads from one person to the next through close contact. Therefore, an individual might contract the virus by touching a herpes sore. However, people usually develop complications from an infected individual who does not have sores.
7 Common Types of Hair Removal Products

7 Common Types of Hair Removal Products

Hair develops on various areas of the body apart from the scalp, like the upper lip, back, legs, fingers, feet, toes, and chin. While such hair growth is normal and usually linked to genetics, many may not like it and want to stop it. However, one should choose the right technique and product based on the skin type, intended results, and ease of use. So, here are common types of hair removal products to consider: Razors One of the most common hair removal methods, especially among young individuals, is shaving. Here one uses a razor cut the hair off at the surface of the skin. Razor blades come in various styles ranging from cost-effective disposable razors used on wet skin to more expensive electric ones suitable for dry shaving. This is a quick, inexpensive, and easy-to-learn process to remove unwanted hair from the body. However, within three days, hair may become slightly visible. Cotton thread Threading is usually used to shape eyebrows. Here one has to double and twist a thin cotton or polyester thread and roll it over areas of unwanted hair to target the growth at the follicle level. It is an inexpensive, quick, and precise way to remove strands one at a time. The process may be slightly painful, so one could apply aloe vera gel after threading to soothe irritated skin. Tweezers Another low-budget way of getting rid of unwanted hair is by physically pulling or plucking it. One could try this method at home or visit a professional to get the job done. The technique is suitable for getting rid of stray hair long enough to grab. One can pull or pluck hair strands by grasping a single strand and pulling. Plucking, usually along the eyebrows, is a great option, as each strand of hair then takes longer to grow when it has been pulled out entirely from the follicle.
Top 9 alternative uses for trash bags

Top 9 alternative uses for trash bags

Trash bags are one of the most common things one will find in a person’s house. These bags help get rid of garbage like stale food and debris efficiently. But that’s not the only purpose they serve. The compact, lightweight, and cost-effective nature of trash bags lets us use them for other reasons too. These nine uses for trash bags other than getting rid of trash from the house are truly amazing. To collect items One of the most basic roles of a trash bag is to collect waste in a single place. But one could also use it to collect other items in their home, such as stored vegetables, cans, bottles, or fruits. Small items like old toys, blankets, and backup appliances could also be kept safe in a plastic bag. However, people should not forget to cover any sharp edges as this could tear the bag and cause the items to fall. Protection against the rain If it’s pouring on a day someone needs to travel, they could always use a trash bag to keep important things dry. It could be anything, like food, clothes, documentation, and electronics that are sensitive to water. A person could also seal important belongings in a trash bag if they ever need to cross a river while camping. Further, people can keep their shoes and feet dry in rainy weather or a wet region by stepping into trash bags and tying them shut against their shins. Ponchos Even if someone has an umbrella with them, harsh weather may wet their clothes. A trash bag could help in this situation. All one needs to do is take a large trash bag, cut holes for their head and arms, and wear it like a shirt. This temporary raincoat should help protect the individual against wet weather.
10 common mistakes to avoid when buying furniture

10 common mistakes to avoid when buying furniture

No matter how spacious and good-looking, a house isn’t habitable until furnished. Buying the right furniture pieces involves considering various factors, including one’s requirements, preferences, budget, and color coordination with the walls. In other words, shopping for furniture requires perfectly integrating aesthetics and utility. Besides, it is a significant investment over and above the expenses incurred in buying a home. So, here are some mistakes to avoid while buying furniture. Not measuring the space The most common mistake is overlooking the available space. When buying furniture, homeowners must first measure the room and estimate the dimensions of tables and chairs it can accommodate. One must also measure the length and the horizontal and diagonal width of the stairways, passageways, and doorways to ensure the furniture can easily pass through while being moved to specific areas in the house. As a thumb rule, furniture pieces should be at least four inches less than the length and the horizontal and diagonal width of the doorway or passageway. Not understanding one’s requirements Any piece of furniture that has little or no use will only eat up space and make the room appear smaller. Thus, homeowners must understand their requirements before heading to the store. For example, a king-size bed is unnecessary if a bedroom has only one occupant. In such cases, a small but comfortable single bed would be the best bet. Similarly, a compact round or oval table would be a better option than a huge family dining table if a household has only one or two members and receives visitors infrequently. Not setting a definite budget range While it may be tempting to go with the flow while buying furniture, individuals must set a tight budget range or spending limit based on their needs analysis, financial status, and number of earning members in the family.
Healthy Foods to Manage Menstrual Cramps

Healthy Foods to Manage Menstrual Cramps

About 80% of women worldwide suffer from menstrual cramps, also known as dysmenorrhea. Women can have period pain right from their teens and continue till menopause. However, in around 5 to 10% of women, menstrual cramps are painful enough to disrupt their daily lives. These cramping pains are intense throbbing sensations in the lower abdomen experienced during the menstrual period. This pain can radiate to the thighs and the lower back as well.  The menstrual pain begins 1 to 3 days before the period starts, peaks on the second day of the menstrual cycle, and usually subsides after the third day. Some women may also have headaches, nausea, loose stools, dizziness, and painful menstruation. How to deal with menstrual cramps? If the cramps are mild or moderately painful, certain home remedies can help relieve the pain. However, if it is debilitating and disrupts your daily life, you may need to see a doctor. For pain that is not too severe,  there are some home remedies that you can try. They include: Hot water bags Hot water bags or compresses applied to the lower back and abdomen can help soothe the period pain Exercise Some studies suggest that light exercises like yoga and mild cardio can reduce period cramps. Massage Massaging the abdomen and back gently can help lessen the ache. In addition to home remedies, some foods can also help alleviate menstrual cramps. Cruciferous and leafy vegetables Cruciferous vegetables are from the plant genus Brassica, and they include kale, watercress, collard greens, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, arugula, etc. They are nutrient-rich and contain calcium, magnesium, fiber, carotenoids, folate, and vitamins E, C, and K. They help relieve period pain and have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. Dark green leafy vegetables like spinach, mustard greens, lettuce, micro greens, etc., contain iron and help combat body pain, dizziness, and fatigue.