Dark Sky Ordinances

What are dark-sky ordinances and why are they important?

The movement for dark-sky ordinances started when a few amateur astronomers realized that urban lights were blotting out the stars, causing a disruption in sleep for both wildlife and humans alike. This nocturnal light pollution hurts the environment and affects the feeding, mating, and living patterns of local wildlife.

To combat this effect, more and more communities are adopting dark-sky ordinances designed to limit the negative impact of artificial light. Compliance with the dark-sky regulations is the responsibility of not just the city, but homeowners within those zones as well, all designed to stop skyglow.

Skyglow is the reflection of light caused by the saturation of artificial light. It’s the orange glow in populated areas that prevents one from seeing the stars. Dark-sky rules are designed to combat this and use a variety of methods to reduce or illuminate this light pollution. In addition to limiting the time and type of lighting, they also employ specific light strategies to comply with the ordinances.

Homeowners in a dark-sky location must also adjust the lighting on their property to avoid citations. As with commercial properties, the use of directional lights, lower “lamp” bulbs, and compliant fixtures allow the homeowner to have adequate lighting, while observing dark-sky practices.

The International Dark-Sky Association, or IDA, offers resources for communities, business owners and homeowners that identify best practices and compliant lighting strategies. As more cities recognize the benefits of dark-sky policies on the environment and their citizens, expect to find more dark-sky ordinances across the country.

Even if your area does not have one of these ordinances, it is interesting to understand why they are being put in place and how an individual homeowner can do their part to help.

2023 Modern Laundry Detergent Methods- Stop Using heavy containers!

Laundry detergent has come a long way in recent years. New methods and formulations have made it more effective at cleaning clothes and removing stains. There are now effective laundry detergents without the overly soapy itch or heavy plastic containers that end up in landfills. You can even get laundry washing tools that require no soap or refills! With so many choices, try several new methods to find the perfect laundry detergent for your needs.

Let’s work collectively towards minimizing our impact on the environment by changing something so simple: howe we clean our clothes!

Seventh Generation claims that if every US household replaced a single plastic bottle of laundry detergent with a biodegradable plant-based bottle, this would save nearly 150,000 barrels of oil, enough to heat and cool 8,500 homes for a year. Assuming most households go through a bottle of detergent every couple of months at minimum, this would save nearly 900,000 barrels of oil annually.

In the suggestions below I do try to stay away from scented products as most of them are chemically hazardous.

1. Magnets

Have you ever heard of using magnets to clean your clothes? I personally have not tried this method like others on this list but it is fascinating.

Try the patented powerful “blue ball” magnets that make up the science-backed Magnetic Laundry System. They have revolutionized the way we wash our clothes FOREVER.

=> Buy Your Magnetic Laundry System Here!

Here are 5 reasons WHY the Magnetic Laundry System is SO great:

• It DOESN’T need expensive detergent to work its magic on your messy clothes.

• By NOT having to use dangerous, toxic filled, detergent you’re eliminating the health risk to you and your family.

• These magnets are 100% REUSABLE and last a LIFETIME saving you even more money.

• You ALSO save money on your water bills because the uses less water and needs less cycles to get clothes clean.

• Unlike detergents these magnets are environmentally friendly.

=> Get Your Magnetic Laundry System Now!

STOP washing your clothes the traditional toxic way…

START washing your clothes the modern, magsafe, magnetic way today!

2. Detergent Sheets

These are my personal favorite items that I use in my own home. I ordered the True Earth 64 pack size and it has lasted me about a year! My skin is sensitive to soaps so I like perfectly portioned out amount per load. There is no overwhelming scent to it but my clothes and sheets are left feeling clean and wonderful. Please keep in mind that most of my loads are done with cold water which cuts down on C02 emissions significantly and these detergent sheets work just great with cold water (unlike those crappy tide pods despite being so delicious ;) ).

• No mess

• Extremely light to carry (great for basement or upstairs laundry)

• Hardly takes up space

• The whole product is environmentally friendly

• About $0.23 per load!

3. Detergent Sheets: Scented

If you want the same as above but with a scent, I recommend Earth Breeze’s Liquidless Laundry Sheets. These come in a Fresh Scent. Please keep in mind, many scented liquid laundry detergent and dryer sheets contain hazardous chemicals and emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), two of which are classified as carcinogens by the Environmental Protection Agency.

4. Detergent Tabs

Like to pop a tablet in the washer? This is for you. A little bulkier than the sheets but still lighter and smaller and more eco-friendly than plastic bottle detergents. Try Blueland Laundry Detergent Tablets! The tin is kind of cute to store them in, too. So if aesthetics is part of your laundry area, this may be the better solution.

5. Laundry Booster

Looking for that extra umph? Put a little of this environmentally friendly and gentle formula from Dirty Labs in with your detergent.

6. Concentrated Liquid

Still want the liquid soap method but feel bad about the effect your laundry is having on the environment? Limit the plastic impact by using a concentrated liquid like this Fresh Linen scented one from Whirlpool.

7. Clean Your Washing Machine!

Doesn’t it make sense to keep the machine that is cleaning your clothes clean as well? This is one of the first things I do when I move into a new home. I clean the washing machine! I typically do 2 loads of affresh at a new abode then run a load every 6-8 weeks to keep the machine clean from soap build ups and other things.

8. Dryer Balls

I love these fun dryer balls. If you are still using dryer sheets- STOP! If you are one of those people using more than one dryer sheet per load, you really need to stop. They are not great for your dryer machine or for the longevity of your clothes. Dryer balls keep clothes soft and lint free and help dry up to 3x faster. I love the fun designs now available which also make them easier to find in my laundry so I keep them in the laundry room and not sitting on top of a dresser until next laundry day. Some people suggest adding essential oils to them to add a little scent. Have you tried this method?

9. Drying Rack

I know, basic! But if you air dry more often, your clothes will last longer and you save on electric/gas. A clothes dryer is responsible for approximately 6 percent of the average home’s energy use. A good drying rack is great for leggings, lingerie, bras, dresses, and materials that typically don’t wrinkle. Save the environment by using your dryer less.

BONUS! Lint Bin

This Lint magnetic box is fabulous. I am always rushed when doing laundry and having an easily accessible trash area for the lint keeps the dryer ready to use with no buildup! Keep your wool balls handy too!

More Information for you:

Smart Energy and Water-Saving Laundry Tips from the ACEEE and Energy.gov:

• Upgrade old washing machines and dryers to ENERGY STAR certified models

• Retrofit laundromats with multi-load units.

• Wash clothes in cold water using cold-water detergents whenever possible.

• Wash and dry full loads. If you are washing a small load, use the appropriate water-level setting.

• Dry towels and heavier cottons in a separate load from lighter-weight clothes.

• Don't over-dry clothes. If a machine has a moisture sensor, use it.

• Clean the lint screen in the dryers after every load to improve air circulation and prevent fire hazards.

• Periodically, remove the lint that collects below the lint screen in the lint screen slot of clothes dryers.

• Use the cool-down cycle to allow the clothes to finish drying with the heat remaining in the dryer.

• Periodically inspect dryer vents to ensure they are not blocked. This will save energy and may prevent a fire. Manufacturers recommend using rigid venting material -- not plastic vents that may collapse and cause blockages.

• Encourage air-drying clothes on clotheslines or drying racks. Clothing manufacturers for some fabrics recommend air-drying.

• If you have front-loading washers or high-efficiency top-loaders, use detergent labeled for high-efficiency (HE) machines. According to the American Cleaning Institute (PDF), HE detergents are low-sudsing and quick dispersing to clean well in high-efficiency washers that use less water.

Smart Laundry Products Tips from EPA’s Laundry Green Practices:

• Wash only full loads of laundry, and select the appropriate water level or load size option on the washing machine and dryer.

• Buy items, such as laundry detergent and fabric softener, with minimal packaging.

• Buy items in bulk or in concentrated form (e.g., concentrated laundry detergent).

Thank you for reading and I hope you join me in impacting our environment in a much more gentle way!

Home Security Basics

News reports of rising crime rates are becoming increasingly common, leaving homeowners and businesses alike feeling concerned. Luckily, there are a wide variety of security solutions available on the market to suit every budget. By following a few simple strategies, you can help protect yourself and your belongings from theft and crime.

· Install a Security System – Security systems are one of the most effective ways to protect your home. Many systems include motion detection, video surveillance, as well as two-way communication.

· Be Unpredictable – Burglars love routine. Using smart home devices, it’s easy to create unpredictable patterns for lights and sound. Leave a car in the driveway if you’re traveling as well, that makes it look like the home is occupied.

· Think Like a Criminal – Spend some time looking at your home and identify the weak points. Secure all doors and windows. Lock all entry points and be creative with a hidden key. Look for hidden entry points; where would you try and break-in? Do you have dark areas that are not visible from the street?

· When was the last time you changed your locks? – Did you change your locks when you moved in to your home? How about when someone moved out? Who was ever given a key copy? If any of your answers make you feel uncomfortable, it is time to switch out your locks- which is easy enough to do by yourself.

Finally, don’t make it easy for the criminals to track your movements. Refrain from advertising your trips on social media until you’ve returned and consider asking a friend or neighbor to visit your home occasionally while you’re gone. The more your home seems occupied, the less appealing it will be to criminals.

2023: 15 Resources for Starting a Homestead

I often ask people I meet what their real estate goals are. Several people over the years have expressed interest in a self-sufficient lifestyle that would be off the grid. There are so many things you can do with your property to make it more efficient while relying less on the outside world- let’s take a look.

Are you tired of the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Ready to trade in your high-rise apartment for a cozy cabin in the woods? If you're yearning for a simpler life, starting a homestead might be the perfect solution for you.

Living off the grid and being self-sufficient are key components of homesteading, and it's not as difficult as you might think to get started. With a little planning and some elbow grease, you can soon be living the homesteading dream. So what are you waiting for? Start your homesteading adventure today!

Check out the resource below to start the wheels turning on becoming self sustaining on just a quarter acre property which you hopefully purchase with me.

Unless you have enough funds to jump all in, think in steps and trying your hand at becoming self-sufficient and living off-grid. The Self-Sufficient Backyard is a great resource to inspire and educate on homesteading life. You could take a few tips and tricks from it!

Have you figured out what you want to grow or raise? This will be the foundation of your homestead. Take advice from Autopilot Homestead on this.

Did you do your research? There's a lot to learn about homesteading, so make sure you know what you're getting into. Read The Self Sufficient Backyard

Start small. You don't need a huge piece of land to get started. In The Self-Sufficient Backyard, they only use a quarter acre of land!

Be prepared for hard work. Homesteading is a lot of work, but it's so worth it. Do you have the tools necessary? Jumpstart with Autopilot Homestead.

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start your homesteading journey!

Your 4 Resources to Inspire your Homestead Dream:

1. The Self Sufficient Backyard is a practical resource to getting started on how to make your property self sufficient. Make sure you check local zoning and codes before starting any projects! $37 book. Click here for link.

2. Autopilot Homestead Course: Unlike The Self Sufficient Backyard, the Autopilot Homestead takes into consideration several people’s experiences. $39. Click here for link.

3. My Survival Farm: A great way to get started on going off grid! Click here for link

4. Hot Survival DIY offers a great resource into basic survival skills for living off the land. Click here for link.

5. DIY Home Energy will help you understand how to properly start an off- grid approach towards energy efficiency! You can even use their method to create a back-up source for power. Click here for link.

6. Renewable Energy from Biogras- Learn about off the beaten path energy resources such as algae! Click here for link.

7. Electricity Freedom- How one person powered their home with nothing like a few bags of grass clippings. Click here for link.

8. How to Make a Shipping Container Home- Shipping Container Home Made Easy™ is a digital program that will teach you step-by-step how to build your very own shipping container home.

9. Tiny House Made Easy- is a digital program that will teach you step-by-step how to build your very own tiny house.

10. Local Harvest Organic Gardening Course- learn all you need to know about growing food to eat! Click here.

11. The Lost Superfoods- With over 126 forgotten survival foods and storage hacks “The Lost Superfoods” is a vital book to place in your survival stockpile. Click here to learn more.

12. The Book of Green Remedies- Achieve Food Self-Sufficiency, Build Soil Fertility and Grow an Abundance of Nutrient Dense Food Year-Round. Click here to purchase.

13. Backyard Healing Herbs- When you are off the grid, having medicinal plants nearby may prove to come in handy! Click here to learn more.

14. The Backyard Miracle Farm- Provides methods which already reflect what’s naturally occurring in nature. Click here.

15. Pocket Farm- High Output Pocket Farm “Generates” Food In The Middle Of A Desert War Zone. Click Here.

15. Survival Upgrades- Learn various skillsets to handle situations!

Bonus:

Self Defense Survival stick- Protect Yourself and aid your walks all in one! Click here to purchase.

These also make great gifts for any Doomsday friends!

5 Yard Design Fails

Baby it’s cold outside! Let’s focus on planning out our warmer weather gardens!

Whether you're looking to create an oasis or just spruce up your space, avoid these common mistakes:

1. Don't Have Unrealistic Expectations- One of the most common mistake homeowners make is thinking that they can achieve a picture-perfect yard overnight. rushing to get that lush look can actually do more harm than good. When you plant too closely together, you run the risk of strangling your plants and having to start from scratch.

2. Don't Use Indoor Items Outdoors- Just because you see an item in a store or online, doesn't mean it's meant to be outdoors. Be sure to do your research or ask a professional before bringing any big-ticket items outside. Some examples of indoor items that don't transition well outdoors are big-screen TVs, sofas, and wooden tables.

3. Neglecting Maintenance- sadly, many people believe that once they have their dream outdoor space, it will be able to take care of itself. However, that's not the case. Decks need to be re-stained or painted from time to time and furniture should be stored away during bad weather to increase its longevity.

4. Ignoring Planting Guidance – Pictures in magazines and on Pinterest can inspire new gardeners, but they may not work for every yard. Planting sun-loving plants in the shade or vice versa is a recipe for disaster.

5. Ignoring HOA Rules – Before spending time and money on plants or trees, read the fine print in HOA or community rules. These rules can be enforced, and no one wants to pay to remove landscaping that's non-compliant.

Everyone wants the perfect yard. When the warmer weather arrives, every yard can offer fresh air living options if these design mistakes are avoided.

9 Solar Powered Products

Almost every homeowner has at least considered adding solar panels to their home to take advantage of the energy savings they promise. But reducing energy consumption with solar does not stop at solar panels on the roof. Here are 9 great products that can help you cut energy costs while adding comfort and value to your lifestyle:

1. Solar Power Bank – Charge phones and tablets at home or on the go with a solar power bank.

2. Portable Power Station – Need to power larger devices? A power station can power more devices and is attached to a small frig or laptop, can keep you connected in a blackout.

3. Security Cameras – Save money and enhance your family’s safety by deterring burglars.

4. Outdoor Wireless Speakers – Enjoy music where you want it in your backyard by going cordless.

5. Camp Lantern – Whether actually camping or for emergency use during a blackout, a solar lantern is a great way to light up the dark.

6. Attic Fan – Keep your home cooler while harnessing the power of the sun with an attic fan.

7. Animal Deterrent – Save energy and your flowers by deterring pesky critters anywhere in the yard.

8. Solar Radio – In an emergency, a solar radio keeps you connected to information. Take camping or or to the beach to add fun tunes to your outdoor experience.

9. Portable Stove – A light solar-powered stove makes the old gas camp stoves obsolete. Safer and lighter, you can cook anywhere.

While whole house solar gets all the attention, smaller solar devices also offer strong benefits without the cost or hassle. As the demand for more electricity continues, offsetting it with solar for your most common items help you and your family do your part!

6 Kitchen Remodels That Waste Money

There are plenty of great ways to save money on your kitchen remodel and still end up with a stunning, welcoming space. Here are six features you can skip to save yourself some cash.

1. Expensive Backsplashes – You can find plenty of cost-effective materials that will look just as good as more pricey options like quartz, marble, or glass.

2. Designer Appliances – Stick to brands that focus on style and function over designer labels – you'll usually be able to find the same look for half the price.

3. Trendy Hardware – It's easy to get caught up in the latest kitchen trends, but resist the urge to go for broke on fixtures that will be out of style in a few years.

4. High-Tech Gadgets – Do you really need a fridge that can make a shopping list or an oven you can turn on from the beach? Most likely, all those bells and whistles will go to waste.

5. Moving Electrical/Plumbing – If at all possible, work within the current layout of your electrical and plumbing. Relocating these sources is both expensive and difficult.

6. Open Shelving – Displays of beautiful plates and glassware may be tempting, but just remember dust and the constant upkeep.

How To Choose The Right Light Fixture for the Space

How to Choose the Right Sized Light Fixture for Your Space

Lighting is one of the most important design elements in any room. Not only should it provide adequate brightness for the room, but it must fit the space and visual atmosphere. The right sized fixture is just as important as the look and construction of the light. Fortunately, even an amateur can choose the perfect fixture with some basic math.

Front Door

Outdoor fixtures are one part of creating the mood for the entire home. Not only should they provide proper lighting but must fit the scale of the door itself. To find the right sized light for the front entrance, it should be no more than one third of the size of the door or opening for a single light and not more than a quarter of the size for dual lights.

Chandelier

Dining rooms call out for a chandelier. Whether modern and sleek or an elegant crystal chandelier, the size is the same. Take the size of the room and add the feet together. For example, if the room is 10’ by 12’ the chandelier’s width should be 22”. Additionally, make sure the width is about 15” shorter than the dining room table.

For other rooms, the size is really more a matter of taste. The light should not create a visual barrier to the room or block design elements, but other than that, choose a light with provides good light and fits the style of the space.

Want a beautiful statement piece? Why not check out www.DouniaHome.com for local artisan lighting!

Latest Backsplash Kitchen Trends

Latest Kitchen Backsplash Trends

This year, kitchen design shows are filled with new materials, patterns and colors as enthusiasts look for the latest trends and styles.

As we leave the dark granite countertops behind, kitchens are getting lighter, brighter and more streamlined looks. These new backsplashes are design statement pieces in their own right, creating a uniquely modern feel to the space. With a focus on sleek surfaces and natural elements, here are the latest trends for kitchen backsplashes.

• Mixed materials – layers of stone mix with sleek metal trims or soft wood to create layer upon layer of design.

• Higher Profiles – the backsplash is no longer a 6” continuation of the countertop. Taller profiles and accent-wall styling are new trends.

• Bold Patterns – geometric tone-on-tone designs create visual interest.

• Subway Tiles – after so many of us removed the old white tile of our kitchens, designers are bringing them back in interesting shapes and patterns.

• Veins – larger granite, quartz or natural stone pieces are used as focal points, adding drama and depth.

• Backsplash Shelves – one of the latest design trends is to create a ledge or shelf along the top of a high-profile backsplash.

• Solid Wall – this last trend is eliminating a backsplash entirely and adding a stone “wall” in the kitchen, removing any visual distinction and creating a sleek, clean line.

2020 design trends are contemporary and exciting. After years of cozy kitchens and dark woods, these kitchens are light and bright; mixing soft natural stone and wood with hard, urban features for a modern, functional kitchen that suits any home style.

Maximizing Space in a Small Kitchen

Maximizing Space in a Small Kitchen

A small kitchen doesn’t have to mean dark or cramped, you can maximize a small kitchen by using these clever tips. From tricking the eye to great ways to get extra storage, these easy design ideas will help you love your small kitchen.

• Tone on Tone Colors Scheme – Trick the eye by using subtle variations of the same color palate.

• Strategic Shelving – Add a shelf above the backsplash to add room for spices or décor; place on a wall to display glasses or dishware and gain extra storage in the process.

• Design with an Island – If possible, open a closed off kitchen to the family or breakfast room, use an island as double duty by adding a breakfast bar on one side and sink, dishwasher and storage on the other.

• Tile a Whole Wall – Consider making a blank wall a focal point by tiling the space floor to ceiling. Glossy tile brings interest and light to the kitchen.

• Big Style Elements – There is no need to shy away from large fixtures simply because the space is smaller. Large retro pendant lights are a great way to not only light the space but add interest and a modern vibe to the kitchen.

• Seek Extra Storage – There is plenty of hidden storage opportunities in most kitchens. Pull out drawers are a great way to access the recessed areas of pantries and cabinets.

Small kitchens can be just as inviting as their spacious counterparts. With a little creativity and stagecraft, your kitchen can be the heart of the home, at any size.