A stunning display, built-in Google apps, and Google AI for 24×7 assistance are some reasons that make users switch to Google Pixel phones. However, Google Pixel is not limited to these primary aspects; it opens up a world of possibilities facilitated by a host of useful software features. Navigating a Google Pixel phone is all about understanding its hidden features and tools. Here are six incredible ways to make one’s Google Pixel experience better. Enable the “Smart Storage” option The internal storage of smartphones is typically limited, causing a shortage of space after a certain period of usage. Photos and videos take up the maximum space on these devices. On the bright side, these items may be deleted from internal storage if one’s automatic syncing option to Google Photos is enabled on Google Pixel phones. Google Pixel allows users to prevent the accumulation of these items in the phone’s internal storage using an automated feature. One may enable this feature through the Files app on the phone by activating “Smart Storage” in its settings. When this option is activated, copies of photos or videos already backed up to Google Photos will be automatically deleted, clearing up the phone’s internal storage. Color-coordinate the home screen icons with the wallpaper All smartphones of Android 12 and above allow users to color-coordinate their home screen icons with the wallpapers they choose. Google Pixel users may complete this process by pressing and holding any blank space on their home screens, selecting “Wallpaper and Style,” and activating the toggle corresponding to the “Themed Icons” options. And voila! All the home screen icons become color-coordinated with the wallpaper’s theme. Enable the option to detect car crashes Google Pixel’s Personal Safety app comes to the rescue in case of car crashes, when the concerned authorities need to be alerted.

For homes with a yard or any outdoor space, dealing with unwanted pests is a constant battle. Further, homes that have pets need to watch out for pest invasions that may occur through their beloved pet. While it can be handy to use tricks or hacks as quick-fix solutions, these may sometimes prolong the infestation or make it more severe. So, always call in a professional and avoid some common pest control mistakes. Underestimating the severity of the infestation While trying to figure out the extent of the infestation, many people often make the mistake of assuming that it is not as serious as it looks. On the contrary, the infestation might be more severe than it appears on the surface. When it comes to pests and bugs, it is best to assume the worst. This is because most pests, such as ants, rats, and termites, are skillful in hiding. So, if one has observed a couple of these around the house, it is a sign that a significant number of them are hiding in some hole or nook in the house. They will end up causing extreme damage even before the homeowner figures out that there is an infestation. Making delay in taking action Another common mistake many homeowners make is waiting around to take some action against the infestation. Insects, bugs, and pests can multiply at a rapid pace, and the situation can get out of hand quite quickly. Therefore, it is best to take immediate action before the infestation becomes difficult to control. Take some immediate pest control measures as soon as the first signs of the pests are observed. Call in professionals to ensure immediate intervention so that there is minimal damage. Using DIY pest control solutions Many people often make solutions and sprays at home with stuff in their pantry and cleaning supplies to get rid of pests.

Mosquitos can be pretty annoying, but more than that, they can also be harmful as they are the carriers of disease-causing germs. The insect is attracted to various scents like skin odor, scented soaps, and more. Carbon dioxide emitted by human beings, along with other typical body fragrances, can be a great pull for mosquitos. So, which are the scents that repel them? Here are eight of them that can keep mosquitos at bay: 8 natural mosquito repellents Lemon eucalyptus oil or OLE  A study conducted in 2014 proved that 32% of OLE can provide effective protection (up to 95%) from mosquitos for up to three hours. The plant-based natural oil has been in use ever since the 1940s as a mosquito repellent. This natural oil is approved by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) too. It is possible to make this repellent at home. All you need is a mixture in the ratio of 1:10 of lemon eucalyptus oil to sunflower oil. Precaution: Take care not to use the pure version or OLE essential oils. Also, it is better not to use the concoction on a three-year-old or kids aged less than this. Citronella  Citronella is probably one of the most effective natural oils to keep mosquitos at bay. The oil has a citrusy smell and is made from lemongrass plants. Most commercial-level mosquito repellents and sprays usually contain citronella as one of the ingredients. The best to apply this option is to make a mixture and not use the essential oil directly on the skin. If you do not have access to a lemongrass plant, you can use the citronella geranium, a geranium variety of flowering plants that has a similar scent to citronella oil. Garlic This is another scent that can irritate mosquitos. There are two ways to use garlic as a mosquito repellent.

Black Friday is the perfect time to grab lucrative deals on some of the most popular furniture pieces. One can expect remarkable offers on furniture for every part of the house, from the patio to the kitchen. And some of them are often discounted up to 50% off or more. Here’s a breakdown of the past year’s offers to prepare one for the upcoming Black Friday 2023 and make one’s house festive-ready.  Living room Sofa beds Last year, substantial price cuts were observed on sofa beds. Prices were slashed by up to 60%. If similar bargains are rolled out this year, consumers can expect significant savings on this versatile and functional piece of living room furniture. Armchairs The price tag of armchairs can sometimes lean on the higher side all through the year. So, most shoppers wait around for the sale period. Last Black Friday, major brands dropped deals with savings ranging from 15% to 30%. Recliners These are perfect additions to a living room for those looking for furniture to relax during the holiday season and the rest of the year. Many major retailers slashed recliner prices by nearly 50% last year. Sofas This is a key furniture item that can make or break the vibe of an entire living room. Also, it is the most expensive piece of living room furniture. With up to 50% reductions offered almost every shopping season, Black Friday has always been a great chance to pick up the right sofa without breaking the bank. Coffee tables Buying a fancy coffee table may seem like an indulgence. But with significant discounts, shoppers have taken home the most luxurious pieces without burning a hole in their pockets. Dining room Dining tables Many major retailers, such as Home Depot, Lowe’s Wayfair, and Amazon, offered great deals on Black Friday last year.

A refrigerator is an essential appliance, especially for big families with many members. However, they can be expensive, so one must tread carefully. When buying a fridge, it’s essential to consider the features, compare prices, and know which model best suits the house. Luckily, with Black Friday approaching, one may find a good product for a reasonable price. A look at last year’s Black Friday refrigerator deals can tell customers what to expect in 2023. GE GE is a popular brand for kitchen appliances like refrigerators. Last Black Friday, shoppers were spoilt for choice with so many high-end products on sale. Here are two deals that were trending: 1. The GE Profile 27.9 Cu. Ft. Smart 4-Door French-Door Refrigerator was on sale at The Home Depot for $3,918. Customers saved $1,001 on this model. By paying a little more, one could get a larger size. This fridge has an in-the-door ice maker, hands-free autofill capability, and other handy features. 2. Another popular GE product, the 25.3 Cu. Ft. Side-By-Side Refrigerator in Stainless Steel, sold at The Home Depot for $1,198. Shoppers saved $601 on this purchase. The model has edge-to-edge shelves, external dispensers, a bonus freezer shelf, and an easy-access icemaker. LG This is another famous brand that was popular among shoppers last Black Friday. Here are two expensive LG products that had a discount: 3. The LG 30 Cu. Ft. French-Door Smart Refrigerator in Stainless Steel was on sale for $3,498, helping shoppers save $601. It comes with a unique InstaView design, which allows users to simply knock on the door twice to see what’s inside the fridge through the glass panel. The door-in-door feature is great for dividing the drinks section from the food section. It also keeps the inner compartment cool, even after opening the glass door.

Choosing the right gift for a loved one is an act of thoughtfulness and care, but it can also be overwhelming and stressful. To help alleviate the confusion and uncertainty, here are some unique and creative gift ideas that are perfect for any occasion and are guaranteed to make your loved ones feel extraordinary. From personalized photo frames to cookbooks, these gift ideas will help you decide and show your loved one how much you care. Personalized family portrait A personalized family portrait can be a heartwarming and timeless gift for a loved one. It captures the bond of the family and becomes a cherished keepsake that can be displayed for years to come. Additionally, the picture will serve as a reminder of the happy day it was taken. To obtain a personalized family portrait, one can approach an artist through their website or social media and provide them with the picture they want to be turned into a portrait. One can choose to have the portrait as digital art or a hand-painted piece. Either way, it will add a touch of warmth and nostalgia to the receiver’s home. Indoor plants or herb garden kits Indoor plants can bring life and vibrancy to any room or space they are placed in. Their greenery promotes well-being and can be a positive companion for improving mental health. One can also gift herb garden kits, which provide the recipient an exciting opportunity to grow fresh herbs right in their homes. This way, they can enhance their dishes, and the herb garden will also enliven their home and boost its visual appeal. An experience Instead of a materialistic gift, one can also gift their loved ones an experience that excites them. This could be anything from a hot air balloon ride, a tasting tour, a skydiving experience, a concert, or a luxurious spa visit.

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.

As the shopping season approaches, it is time for shoppers around the country to get ready with their lists and strategies to snag the best Black Friday deals and avoid missing out. For coffee enthusiasts, this is the perfect opportunity to get a top-notch coffee maker at a fraction of its regular price. The following brands and retailers have previously offered unbeatable deals on coffee makers, so they are worth considering on Black Friday 2023. Coffee maker brands 1. Breville has long been known for its commitment to innovation and precision. With a wide range of coffee makers, including drip machines, espresso makers, and grinder-brewer combos, Breville’s appliances cater to both novice brewers and seasoned coffee connoisseurs. The brand’s dedication to ensuring intuitive controls and high-quality materials in their machines ensures a consistently exceptional cup of coffee. Last year, Breville helped shoppers save as much as $100 on their purchases of coffee makers and the necessary accessories. 2. Nespresso revolutionized coffee making with its pioneering single-serve espresso machines. Known for offering sleek design and convenience in its machines, Nespresso also sells a wide variety of coffee blends and flavors. Further, the brand’s commitment to sustainability sets it apart in the realm of single-serve brewing. Nespresso offered its Vertuo and Select machines during the previous sale season at a 25% discount, making them worth considering this shopping season as well. 3. Keurig is synonymous with versatility and convenience. Its single-serve machines, compatible with a vast array of K-Cup pods, help one experiment with a range of flavors and coffee recipes. Keurig’s dedication to customization and user-friendly interfaces make it a beloved choice for households with diverse coffee tastes. Some of its top-rated single-serve models carried discounts across e-commerce platforms, helping shoppers save as much as $70. Further, the company website previously offered up to 50% off on a select range of coffee makers, making it worth checking out on Black Friday this year.

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people with certain disabilities and people over 65. Original Medicare has two main parts: Part A, which covers the cost of inpatient services, and Part B, which covers the cost of outpatient services and certain medical equipment. Although the program is meant to ease the financial burden of medical costs on people, it can be quite complex to navigate. This article explores 11 things that are excluded from Medicare coverage. 1. Medically unreasonable services and supplies Any services and supplies deemed unnecessary or unreasonable for diagnosis or treatment are not covered by Medicare. These may include: Services that could have been furnished at a lower-cost setting (such as at a nursing home) Services that exceed Medicare length of stay limitations Excessive therapy or diagnostic procedures Unrelated screenings, tests, examinations, or therapies (that the patient has no symptoms for) Unnecessary services based on patient diagnosis, such as transcendental meditation Exceptions to this rule include Medicare preventive services, transitional care management, chronic care management, and advance care planning. 2. Opticians and eye exams While Medicare covers ophthalmologic expenses (such as cataract surgery), it does not cover the cost of most vision services, including eyeglasses and contact lenses or routine examinations for prescription and fitting. Additionally, Medicare does not cover the cost of eye refractions provided by practitioners. Those looking for vision coverage must consider signing up for Medicare Advantage plans. 3. Dental work Original Medicare and Medigap policies do not cover routine dental services such as the care, treatment, filling, or removal of teeth or the structures supporting the teeth (that is, the periodontium, which includes the gingivae, dentogingival junction, periodontal membrane, cementum, and alveolar bone). However, there are certain exceptions for the same. Medicare may cover some dental services, such as an X-ray required for treatment of a jaw or bone fracture, tooth extraction for radiation treatment, oral or dental examination performed prior to a renal transplant or heart valve replacement, or a dental service performed as an integral part of a treatment.

While most people today are constantly on the move to declutter and organize, it may be worthwhile to hold on to some precious items from the past. Apart from their sentimental value, these items could be worth a lot of money today! So, get ready to sift through cupboards and other storage spaces to find these hidden gems. Here are 19 things around the house that could be worth a lot of money: Old magazines Several people have trouble throwing away old magazines. Over time, some magazines may become lucrative collector’s items, valued at over a hundred dollars today. Their rarity, condition, and number of printed issues determine their valuation. Vintage furniture Vintage and antique furniture are always in demand, with some pieces fetching thousands of dollars on sale. With the growing popularity of retro, mid-century, and vintage styles, now may be the perfect time to sell any vintage or antique furniture pieces one may have lying around the house. Old cameras Since the advent of smartphones with picture and video-taking capabilities, cameras seem obsolete to many. As a result, old devices have just been collecting dust. If one has any old cameras at home, consider getting them valued. Rare, vintage cameras are a big hit in the photography community and could fetch a handsome sum. Old currency Old coins and banknotes are a popular collector’s item, and rare currency can be worth a lot of money today. According to certain sources, quarters, dimes, half-dollars, and silver dollars minted before 1964 were 90% silver. Depending on their year of circulation and denomination, these coins could be worth $0.93-$82.20 in melted silver. Other rare coins may hold value beyond their material, with some being valued at as much as $3000. Books Old books could be worth a lot of money too.

Dyson is a well-known brand for home appliances and smart gadgets. Some popular products include vacuum cleaners, air purifiers, fans, hair styling tools, and more. Among these products, vacuum cleaners are popular among consumers as they are packed with top-notch features that leave every room squeaky clean. One can choose from various options, including handheld, cordless, or robot cleaners. Here are some ongoing deals. Shoppers can expect similar deals this upcoming Black Friday. Amazon 1. The Dyson V15 Detect Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is currently priced at $597, a 20% discount from its original price of $749. This product comes with a special feature like laser illumination, which reveals microscopic dust on hard floors and helps clean them. The smart suction and run time on this vacuum make it a great pick for most shoppers. Additionally, the device comes with two advanced cleaner heads made for deep cleaning, especially for homes with pets. 2. Another popular product on a limited-time deal includes the Dyson Gen5detect cordless vacuum cleaner, which is priced at $824 (original price is $949). The HEPA filters are highly effective as they are created to remove 99% of the microns that pass through the vacuum. The product comes with a fluffy optic cleaner head, hair screw tool, built-in dusting and crevice tool, wall dok, combination tool, digital motorbar cleaner head and also a charger. The vacuum cleaner also comes with a two-year warranty, making it convenient for users regarding any servicing needs requiring repair or replacement. Dyson 3.Dyson is currently offering some deals on select products on its official website. One of the popular products, the Dyson Gen5detect absolute, is available for $849 (a $100 discount). The original price of the product is $949. It comes with a two-year warranty and features like advanced suction, HEPA filtration, dust detention, and scientific proof on screen.

As a pet parent, you probably pet-proofed your home before getting a dog or a cat. You ensure that the animals have no access to the chocolates, the antifreeze, the repellents, and even put all the hazardous toys out of their reach. But, most of us forget about plants. Read on to know how those seemingly safe and aesthetic potted plants in your home or yard can be toxic for your pet dog: 6 household plants to keep way from your dogs Sago palm The sago palm plant is a very common sight in households worldwide. Its leafy green aesthetic makes it the perfect addition to your indoor plant collection. It is also effortless to care for, making it a popular plant choice for homes. But, you may want to remove it or steer clear of it if you have a dog. This is simply because sago palm is toxic to dogs. It contains an element known as cycasin, which, if consumed, can lead to a wide range of symptoms or be fatal. If your dog has ingested this plant, you may note symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, tremors, loss of balance, and even seizures. In worse cases, consuming the sago palm plant can also lead to liver failure or death. Note that every part of this plant is toxic to dogs. Aloe vera The gel found in the aloe vera plant leaves has tons of health properties and works wonders for the skin. Not to mention, it is very low maintenance, which makes them the perfect choice for both indoor and outdoor decoration. But, what many do not know is aloe vera is toxic to dogs. The gel in the plant contains two toxic components: saponins and anthraquinones. These can prove harmful to your pet if ingested. Typical signs of aloe vera ingestion in dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, upset stomach, and lethargy.