spring

14 Ways to Allergy-Proof Your Home

Ashley Eneriz — Wed, 23 May 2018 09:00:24 +0000

While most people are rejoicing over the arrival of spring, allergy sufferers know that with the warmer weather also comes sniffling, sneezing, and itchy eyes. Even though you won't be able to avoid all allergens, there are several ways to allergy-proof your home in order to keep the sneezing to a minimum.

1. Use doormats to catch outside irritants

Use two doormats, one outside and one right inside the front door to catch any pollen and other allergens hanging onto our shoes. Better yet, make your home a shoe-free zone and make a habit of taking off your shoes as soon as you come home.

2. Replace bedding with hypoallergenic options

Upgrade your sheets, pillows, pillowcases, duvets, and comforters to hypoallergenic versions. If you can't afford to replace all of your bedding at once, start with the pillowcases, since those are the closest to your face when you sleep. Your laundry detergent could cause allergy flare-ups, too, so wash with unscented soaps.

3. Clean or replace air filters

Clean or replace your home's air filters every 90 days if you are a pet-free home or every 60 days if you have a dog or cat. If you have more than one pet, clean or replace the air filters every 20-45 days. Pet fur and dander cling to these easily, and could be the cause of increased allergic reactions.

4. Add houseplants

Some house plants can help improve the air quality of your home, while also adding color and life to every room you put them in. The best air-purifying plants include garden mums, spider plants, and peace lilies, among others. Place one or more of these plants in the rooms you spend the most time in, and on your nightstand to help improve your sleep. (See also: The Best Cheap Plants for Improving Indoor Air Quality)

5. Invest in an air purifier

A good air purifier will cost you between $50-$100, but it is a worthwhile investment. Keep one in your room, your kid's room, and in the main living area. Remember to clean the filters and wipe down the unit every month or two to ensure the unit stays effective.

6. Use a humidifier

The difference between air purifiers and humidifiers is that the former clears smoke, dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens from the indoor air without adding moisture, and the latter adds water to the air, without cleaning it.

In order to keep allergic reactions at bay, it's helpful to have both in your home. If indoor air becomes too dry, allergies and respiratory issues can be triggered. If the air has too much moisture, you risk the spread of dust and mold. Humidifiers should be cleaned once a week in order to prevent dust and mold buildup. So while it's a delicate balance, it's worth it to keep a humidifier nearby to the prevent sneezing fits, sore throats, and runny noses that are common during allergy season.

Humidifiers are also extremely affordable, running you anywhere from $15–$50, depending on the size and model.

7. Rethink your curtains

While curtains and drapes can make a room look stylish and cozy, they can also harbor a lot of dust mites and other common allergens. Consider ditching the curtains altogether, or wash them in hot water every few months to remove allergens.

8. Kick your pet out of bed

Even if snuggling with your dog or cat is the best part of your day, health-wise, it might be worth it to kick them out of your bedroom and have them sleep elsewhere. If you can't get your dog or cat out of the room, at least train them to sleep somewhere other than your bed, so you aren't constantly exposing your airways to their fur and dander. (See also: 6 Money Lessons You Can Learn From Your Pets)

9. Wash stuffed animals

Kids' stuffed animals can be major magnets for dust mites. Be sure to wash them regularly and don't be afraid to give a sweet teddy the boot (or replace it with a new one if your child is particularly attached) if it looks past its prime.

10. Get rid of carpet

This might not be in everyone's budget or realistic for everyone's lifestyle, but it could be highly beneficial for allergy sufferers, especially those who live in older homes. Your carpet might be the source of many of your allergy problems, especially if it has lived through another owner or two. Getting the carpets cleaned can help, but it doesn't eliminate the allergy problem like replacing carpets for hard floors does.

11. Keep an eye out for mold

Deep clean any area that is prone to mold, including the kitchen sink and underneath it, the bathroom, and the fridge. And any item that is regularly exposed to moisture can get moldy, so clean toys, garden tools, cleaning utensils, and kitchen tools to avoid allergic reactions and respiratory conditions involved in long-term exposure to mold. (See also: 6 Easy Ways to Get Rid of Mold on Common Household Items)

12. Groom pets regularly

Getting long-haired pets trimmed or shaved for the spring and summer months can cut down on shedding, and reduce unwanted allergens in your home. If your pet can't rock a shaved look, give them baths regularly in the warmer months and brush out their fur outside.

13. Dust smarter

It's important to dust regularly, but dusting the wrong way can make particles fly up into the air and aggravate your sinuses. Instead, use a damp cloth or a Swiffer duster that captures the dust molecules instead of spreading them.

14. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter

A vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter is extremely effective at removing small dust particles from your home. Vacuum carpets and furniture once or twice a week, and change the HEPA filter according to your vacuum manual.

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This article is from Ashley Eneriz of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

11 Ways to Make Your Money Grow This Spring

Mikey Rox — Fri, 14 Apr 2017 08:00:10 +0000

I'm no fan of winter, but there's an upside to being holed up in my house three to four months out of the year: I spend way less money (outside of Christmas, of course).

Springtime, though — all bets are off. I'm outside most of the time, hitting the beach, grabbing lunches and dinners on the go, planning mini-vacays, buying fresh threads for all those weekend parties, consuming cocktails — you get the picture; it's expensive.

You could avoid spending money altogether when spring rolls around, but what fun is that? If you like to have a great time when the weather is cooperative, read through this list of ways to earn extra income so you can do all the things you like to do in the sunshine without going into debt.

1. Pick up seasonal employment

Depending on where you live, there could be a bounty of seasonal spring and summer employment. I live by the beach, for instance, and everybody's hiring this time of year — boardwalk shops, beach clubs, restaurants, landscapers, hotels, water-sports instructors, and more. But even if you didn't plant roots near a shore, there are still opportunities in your neck of the woods. Consider local amusement and water parks, baseball stadiums (one of the most fun jobs I've ever had!), spring-cleaning side work, camp counselor, and other outdoorsy-type gigs.

Andrew Fiebert, co-founder of Listen Money Matters, a personal finance podcast and blog, suggests, "Jobs where you can earn tips can easily boost the amount you make. Tutoring or private lessons are other great part-time jobs and you have more control over your schedule."

2. Sell your spring-cleaning surplus

I do a deep clean of my house twice a year — at the start of spring and fall — and I'm continually amazed at how much I get rid of each cycle. Instead of sending everything to charity or a landfill, I try to monetize my junk. I sell my unwanted clothes on Swap.com (which has gone fairly well in the past) and I list other household items, electronics, sports equipment, etc., on the Letgo app. Both are super easy to use. (See also: 10 Easiest Items to "Flip" for Cash)

"There are plenty of websites that can help you [unload your toss-outs], eBay being one of the most notorious, but you pay less in fees with Bonanza and eBid." says Natasha Rachel Smith, personal finance expert at TopCashback.com. "If your goods are designer, it's worth checking out Tradesy or Poshmark. BuyBackWorld is great for electronics, and Raise.com will, in many cases, actually pay you $1.50 per gift card you list for sale through TopCashback."

3. Switch to a cash back credit card

If you're not currently using a cash back credit card, it's time to switch — pronto. Credit cards these days offer scores of money-saving benefits, like price matching and return protection. And if you're going to spend money, you might as well get paid for it. (See also: How to Save an Extra $1,094.86 a Year)

4. Take advantage of free outdoor activities

I'm the planner in my relationship and among my friends, and I like to get out and have fun when the weather is nice. But having a robust schedule can be expensive if you let it get away from you. I spend cash here and there (movie tickets, boat trips, parasailing), but I'm primarily focused on all the fun, free activities my area has to offer, like bonfires, movie screenings, hikes, swimming in local hotel pools, game nights on the patio, and dozens of other ideas that won't cost you a dime. (See also: 47 Cheap and Fun Things to Do This Weekend)

5. Put your gym membership on hold and exercise outside

My gym membership is about $60 a month, but if I put it on hold in the spring and summer to exercise outside, it'll only cost me $15 a month. Now, I don't personally do this because I like my classes and instructors — they keep me motivated. But if you're a self-motivator or just focused on cardio, this could be a great place to cut back and put more money in your spring budget. (See also: These At-Home Exercises Will Give You a Gym-Quality Workout for Free)

6. Fight the temptation to spend your tax refund

Everybody gets those twinkly dollar signs in their eyes when their refund checks arrive, but practice self control and try not to spend it on frivolous things. That money is better suited paying off bills, going to your savings account, or paying for/putting a down payment on a vacation (but only if you've got a handle on your credit card payments and other bills). (See also: 50 Smart Things to Do With Your Tax Refund)

7. Plant a garden to cut down on food costs

When the temperature starts to heat up, I crave fresh fruits and veggies; there's just something about a cool cucumber when it's 90 degrees outside (especially in a mojito). You can go to the grocery store to stock up, but if you're resourceful and dedicated, why not plant your own garden to eat from all season long? According to the USDA, a family of four spends an average $1,000 a month on groceries, but growing your own produce will cut that bill. Maybe not significantly, but extra money is extra money. (See also: 10 Most Valuable Things to Plant in Your Garden This Spring)

8. Host guests via a micro-subletting site

I've been a host on Airbnb since its inception and it has completely enriched my life. Not only do I love meeting and hosting strangers from all over the world, but it's also made a major impact on my financial health. The revenue I bring in from my beach house during the summer fully covers the mortgage (with plenty to spare) all year long, which is why I recommend this lifestyle to everyone with the capacity to host guests. (See also: 13 Things I Learned From Renting Out My Home on Airbnb).

9. Nip excessive energy use in the bud

Open your doors and windows and pull up the shades to take advantage of natural light. Hang-dry your clothes instead of running the dryer. Cook on the outdoor grill more than in your oven. Turn on ceiling fans in lieu of the air conditioner for as long as you can hold out. Sleep with lighter blankets or just straight-up naked. Use less water with quicker showers, and by watering plants in the morning or late evening so the water doesn't evaporate as quickly. (See also: 34 Smart Ways to Cut Your Electric Bill)

10. Review your subscription services

Take a look at your subscriptions to see what can go. Maybe you want to keep your magazines because you like reading them on vacation. On the flip side, if you don't consume much content in the spring and summer because you're out and about a lot, you might consider putting on hold or canceling streaming services. Also, take a good look at your online bank accounts to see if you've missed anything; there might be monthly fees coming out that you forgot about. Cancel anything you're not using enough to justify its cost. Saying "so long" to standard cable, for instance, can add hundreds (maybe even $1,000 or more) to your budget. (See also: 3 TV Must-Haves Once You Cut the Cable Cord)

11. Just say "NO"

While I enjoy an active social calendar in the spring, I can't attend everything. And you don't have to, either. If an event (like a dinner group or destination wedding or weekend away with your pals) isn't affordable, opt out. You're not obligated to go to any of these things, and you shouldn't put yourself in a financial pickle as a result.

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This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

10 Ways to Make the Most of Daylight Savings

Ashley Marcin — Thu, 09 Mar 2017 10:00:17 +0000

We spring ahead on Sunday, March 12. You're probably looking forward to a little more light in your day. DST started back in World War I as a way to decrease energy usage. The idea was that people would burn fewer candles at night and not sleep through dawn.

More daylight hours can do some good for all of us. For example, car crashes tend to decrease in the months we're in DST. The extra sunlight helps in that area. In fact, if we switched to living this way all year, there could possibly be 366 fewer auto crash deaths per year, according to a 2004 study published in Accident Analysis & Prevention.

Regardless of the stats and science, I think many of us look forward to more light in the evening hours. Here are some ways you can prepare for and even thrive with the time change.

1. Head to Bed Early Now

Most of the downsides to DST have to do with lack of sleep and its impact on the body. Fortunately, your body's internal clock will adjust after only a few days. Why not plan ahead — especially you night owls! Start a few days in advance and set your bedtime back 15 to 20 minutes each night. That way, by the time you make the switch, you're already adjusted to it.

2. Spend Time Outdoors

Shifting the clock forward is a lot like experiencing jet lag. You can have symptoms ranging from insomnia to irritability to poor concentration. Sunlight has the power to help reset your system. So you may want to go outside in the morning on Sunday to help reset your body's circadian rhythm.

3. Exercise and Keep at It

Want to protect your heart? Use the added light after work to start a new exercise program. Current recommendations for adults say to get 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity in per week. You can split this up to 30 minutes or 15 minutes per day, just five days of the week. Try taking the dog for a walk around your neighborhood after dinner or heading out on a run with a friend.

4. Take a Hike

Exercise can be about more than just burning calories and getting fit. If stress has been taking you hostage this winter, being out in nature has tremendous power to change your mood. According to a 2015 study published in PNAS, hiking may reduce what is called "ruminative thought" or the kind of thinking where you rehash negative things you've recently experienced, improving your mental health. With more hours of sunlight in your schedule, those trails aren't off-limits as much as they are during the darker months.

5. Save Energy

Why not try to save some energy now that there's more daylight? After all, that was the original plan! Make a habit of switching your lights off in the afternoon hours and keeping them off as long as possible. Tear open your curtains, open your windows, or even head outdoors to read that novel you just started.

6. Boost Your Vitamin D

Soaking in more sun isn't just good for the soul, it can boost your vitamin D levels. Many of us are chronically low in vitamin D. My own levels were almost zero at my latest physical. Vitamin D is responsible for the body's ability to fight off disease, resist depression, shed pounds, and more. Taking supplements can help, but getting more sun in your day is best — and it's free.

7. Check Off Chores

You may have been waiting to do some maintenance on your outdoor spaces. In the light of day, you can revisit those lists and make some plans for getting stuff done. Spring is a great time to secure roof shingles, scrub moldy house siding, clean clogged gutters, and lots more. (See also: 8 Easy House Maintenance To-Dos for Spring)

8. Get Your Garden Growing

It isn't too early to plan for your harvest this year. Planting season is coming, and you can use the early weeks to step outside and prep your plot. Or you can head into the garage and take stock of your tools, and get a compost operation started. There are even some plants that will grow in colder weather. Try veggies like beets, broccoli, corn, kale, onions, radishes, or turnips.

9. Spend Time With Others

The darkness of winter made the days feel impossibly short. You may have felt like a hermit. Now that the days feel longer, resist the urge to isolate yourself. People of all ages gain huge benefits from socializing. Anything from having a renewed sense of purpose and belonging, to improved self-confidence and self-esteem. Join a club, check out the local calendar, volunteer, or do whatever else will bring you around people.

10. Say "No" to Screen Time

We also don't have to light our world with artificial lights and screens as much now that spring has sprung. Embrace this excuse to put down the technology and reconnect with your roots. Put your phone down, close your laptop, and just go outside with your friends and family. There's a lot to do in this world of ours, and with some extra sun, we can enjoy it all the better.

This article is from Ashley Marcin of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Spring Clean Your Whole Life — One Step at a Time

Ashley Marcin — Tue, 28 Feb 2017 11:00:13 +0000

'Tis the season for cleaning and organization. We've spent the winter hibernating and surrounded by all of our material things that have provided us comfort. But once spring has sprung, we'll want our spaces to be more open, a lot cleaner, and we'll want to pack away all the cold weather garb we've been clinging to the last few months.

The concept of spring cleaning doesn't need to be limited to the literal cleaning of our homes, though. We could all use a bit more organization and decluttering in every aspect of our lives. The coming of spring signifies a fresh start, so why not take some time now to cut out all the things you don't need and simplify your life?

Here are some ideas to help get you started.

1. Cut Down on Your Time Commitments

If you are finding yourself completely booked all the time, you may want to learn the art of saying "no." In my own life, I have worked hard at fighting my people-pleasing ways. Saying no the first time is hard, but it gets easier the more you do it. You can always say yes to something that really motivates or inspires you. Otherwise, try to focus on the most important things in your life and let go of the stress over over-commitment.

2. Minimize Your Routine

If getting ready in the morning takes up a chunk of your time, you may want to consider ways to simplify. If deciding what to wear is using up precious time, try following a more minimalistic clothing approach. I like Project 333, where you choose 33 or fewer clothing items and wear only those items for three months. If it's your hair or makeup routine that's eating into your morning, consider getting a more manageable cut that's wash-and-go versus needing a full blowout. Toss old makeup and keep only the basics (and try going sans makeup from time to time). (See also: How to Build a Downsized Wardrobe You Love)

3. Drill Down Your Career Goals

Determining career goals can be tricky — especially if you are highly motivated. But the key is to be specific. Don't try to take on too much at one time. For example, you may want to find a new job, get a raise, and network more. Too many goals may lead you to over-scheduling and generally feeling overwhelmed, thus spinning your wheels.

Choosing just one goal to go after — even if your goals are seemingly related — may bring you the most success. When opportunities do arise, ask yourself first if they are activities that align with your primary career goal. (See also: How to Say No at Work and Still Get Ahead)

4. Find Fun in Fitness

Figure out a fitness schedule and stick with it. If you've been paying for a gym membership but you never go, ask yourself why. Do you need a buddy to go with you? Does it get too crowded during the time of day you like to go? Or on the flip side, do you lack motivation to workout at home with free options? Then you might need to bite the bullet and sign up for a studio class. Find the hurdle and remove it. Exercising more helps you manage stress and feel better. It's an essential part of staying healthy. Don't neglect this. (See also: These At-Home Exercises Will Give You a Gym-Quality Workout For Free)

5. Be Conscious About Food

Sometimes eating lots of processed foods and takeout can make you feel clogged up both physically and mentally. You may want to eat a healthy diet but don't know where to start. Here's a 28-day challenge that can get you off on the right foot.

Focus on the pillars of healthy eating:

Eat whole foods;
Eat the colors of the rainbow;
Enjoy foods packed with micronutrients;
Get your fats from plant sources.

Also, try shopping the perimeter of grocery stores versus the middle aisles where most processed foods are shelved.

6. Be Selective of Your Social Circle

Surround yourself with only the people who bring the best out of you. If someone is constantly bringing their negative energy into your life and there's no way to change that, cut them off.

7. Limit Your Social Media Time

Facebook can be a great place to build your network or reconnect with old friends. But if you're finding yourself at midnight, deeply angered at the political rantings of a classmate you had back in third grade, it may be time to step away for a while. I share this from personal experience.

8. Cut Back on Screen Time

Most Americans watch shows and movies around four and a half hours per day. That's a lot of time that you could spend working toward your goals. Whenever you think about all the things you wished you had more time for, think about what shows you can cut that will still allow you some down time or entertainment but also get you off the couch doing something productive.

9. Demolish Your Debt

Bills are the area of focus in my household right now. My husband and I have grown tired of all the loan payments for cars, college debt, and home improvements. We have sent checks for years without thinking much about the interest. We've decided we're going to try the snowball method to pay off our debt ASAP. It's never a bad time to look at your finances and make your get-out-of-debt plan.

10. Clear the Clutter

Speaking of freeing up the budget, you may want to have an internal conversation with yourself about your attachment to stuff. One way to spring clean your life is to actually do a little spring cleaning.

I most enjoy the KonMari method, where you physically touch each item in your home and see if it brings you joy. If not, you can toss or donate or give to a friend. Skeptical? Many people who have gone through this process have found it to be transformative. Things can really weigh down your mind (and your wallet, for that matter). (See also: Do This One Thing a Day to Defeat Clutter Forever)

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This article is from Ashley Marcin of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

9 No-Fuss Plants That Will Brighten Your Home Until Spring

Ashley Marcin — Mon, 20 Feb 2017 11:00:12 +0000

This time of year, it's nice to bring something green home to help pass the gray days. Houseplants are a living reminder that spring is on the horizon. You don't need to be particularly good at keeping stuff thriving to enjoy them, either. Here's a list of some low-maintenance plants that are cheap or, in some cases, free! (See also: The 5 Hardest-to-Kill Houseplants)

1. Pothos

You can pick up a gorgeously green, 10-ounce pothos plant for less than $4 at Lowe's. If you're worried about it being high maintenance, don't fret. Chances are, you'll have this plant for the long haul. Even people who have green thumbs explain that this plant will withstand a hearty dose of "benign neglect."

And if your friend just happens to have this plant, you may be able to get one for yourself for free. Simply cut an existing plant into some individual segments above the leaf by about half an inch. Take 10 or so of these cuttings and place them in a pot (don't forget to water them) for about six weeks. Each cut should eventually make a vine that will turn into a full plant.

2. Spider Plant

The only plant I have ever had in my own home is the spider plant. And amazingly, it has withstood the test of time and countless messes along the way. Talk about indestructible. What about cheap? Yeah, it's that, too. This plant produces seemingly unlimited babies that you can either inherit or pass along to your friends with virtually no work involved on your part.

Here's a tip: spider plants can sometimes get a "burned" look on their leaf tips. This is as a result of too much fluoride accumulation. If you want to avoid this tattered look, try using higher grade fertilizer and skipping tap water when watering. It's a great excuse to try your hand at making a rain collection barrel.

3. Aloe Plant

Want a plant that does more than just look pretty on your shelf? Grow aloe! You can use its gooey center to ease irritation from cuts and burns. A 10-inch aloe vera plant costs only $4. Care is easy. Water well and then let the soil dry one or two inches before the next watering.

Another option is tiger alloe. It is one of the smaller plants in the aloe family and only reaches about 10 inches tall. As a result, it fits well on coffee tables or other areas in compact apartments. Oh, and it gets some spikes with orange flowers in the middle of winter to help shake the cold-weather blues and add a burst of color into your life.

4. Jade Plant

Jade plants can last 100 years or more with proper care. It is a slow-growing succulent, so it doesn't need to take up a lot of space and can survive even if you forget to water it regularly. You can grab a jade of your very own for around $4 or $5.

If your jade picks up mealybugs — a white, cottony mass — you can treat it with some rubbing alcohol.

5. Cactus

My neighbor bought a tiny Christmas cactus plant for around $5 a few years ago. It now sits proudly in her bay window and blooms late each fall with some really pretty flowers. You'll want to place this plant in a well-lit area and place it in a well-drained pot. You only need to move it to a new pot every year or so. In the summer, you can move it to your patio — just make sure to give it some shade during the hottest time of day.

This plant is often called a crab cactus in Europe. And in its native Brazil, the "Christmas" part of the name would be relatively meaningless, as its blooms in spring there (because it's in the Southern Hemisphere).

6. Mother-in-Law's Tongue

While a mother-in-law's tongue (otherwise known as a snake plant) may sound like something you'd want to stay away from, this plant is excellent for indoor air quality. It filters anything from formaldehyde to trichloroethylene to benzene out of your home's atmosphere. It's relatively cheap to boot. You can pick one up for around $15 at your local big box center. Experts recommend you place this plant in your bedroom because — get this — it can convert exhaled CO2 into oxygen.

The best part? This plant is super hard to kill. They don't need much light either. Just some love, and little water, and an occasional dusting.

7. Cast Iron Plant

Don't have a lot of light in your home? The cast iron plant doesn't care. The shadier, the better for this happy plant. Actually, if it gets too much sun, its leathery leaves will start to burn. Otherwise, it's hearty and easy to maintain. A small cast iron will set you back around $12.

If your plant's leaves do end up burning, you can simply cut them off, water well, and place it in a spot with better shade away from windows.

8. Rubber Plant

As one of the world's oldest house plants, the rubber plant can grow quite tall and take up a bit of space in only a few years' time. But that's good if you want a houseplant as a feature of your home decor. It's also resistant to pests and diseases and can tolerate poor treatment. You can get a rubber plant for around $8 plus shipping costs. Not bad considering how big it will get.

My mother-in-law keeps these plants, and she explains that if the leaves turn yellow, it's typically that they're receiving too much water. Back off for a while, and their usual color should return.

9. Peace Lily

Another easy-to-grow houseplant is the peace lily. It's quite common in houses across the U.S. and beyond, so you may be able to score one from a friend. Otherwise, you can buy this plant for around $8. Its pleasant white flowers prefer shade versus sun. Most peace lily plants grow to about 16 inches tall and bloom throughout the year. No blooms? Move your plant to a darker room.

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This article is from Ashley Marcin of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Get the Greenest Lawn on the Block — Naturally

Ashley Marcin — Mon, 25 Apr 2016 09:30:24 +0000

Want a gorgeous, lush lawn without all the chemicals and other icky stuff? It's not as hard as you might think. With a little creativity and some elbow grease, you can whip your grass into shape without calling a service or spending much at all. (See also: Secret Lawn Tonic Golf Course Groundskeepers Love)

Amazing Aeration

Before the season even starts, you should aerate your lawn so it can have its best year yet. By letting it breathe, you get rid of nasty compaction issues that can cause bigger problems down the line. To aerate, you'll want the grass to be pretty dry. Insert a garden fork or sod coring tool every few inches to get the oxygen in. If you have a big lawn, you might consider going in with a neighbor and renting a power lawn aerator for a day or two. After you've finished this process, collect soil plugs with a bagged mower and add them to your compost heap.

Beer Fertilizer

My grandfather is known as a lawn king of sorts in my hometown. He swears by feeding his lawn with beer. The fermented sugars and other nutrients improve the soil and help to get rid of dead spots. All you have to do is pour about eight ounces of regular beer per 10-inch spot that needs love. Beer can be fresh or flat, hot or cold. Wait about a week and if the area is still droopy, repeat the process.

Soothing Salts, Part I

Not into brews? That's okay. You can actually use your favorite bath time soak to nurture your lawn. Epsom salts help keep your grass green and healthy all year round — they may even soften grass. You'll want to use about three pounds of salts per 1,250 square feet of lawn. To apply, use a lawn spreader. If you'd rather add water and spray, use a tank sprayer or a hose with a spray attachment.

Soothing Salts, Part II

The National Gardening Association explains that epsom salts also work wonders in your vegetable and flower gardens by enriching the soil with magnesium. The group conducted a study where gardeners from across the United States sprayed their peppers and roses with the stuff. The results? Four out of six gardeners reported that their pepper plants were more robust. All the rose plants were bushier with greener foliage and more roses. To try this at home, add one tablespoon of epsom salts to a gallon of water, spray plants, and repeat the process every 10 days (peppers) or six weeks (roses).

Kind Killer

This weed killer is kind to the environment and won't cost you much. In fact, you might already be using it for many tasks in your home. Simply spray all those pesky weeds with plain white vinegar. You'll want to do this on a day with no rain in the forecast (can dilute the effects). My mother-in-law says that heartier, more persistent weeds respond better to something stronger like pickling vinegar. Just pour vinegar into a spray bottle and use as liberally as necessary.

Wondrous Water

Whether or not you live someplace where you have a cap on water usage, it's a good idea to conserve this precious resource. Try building your own rain barrel to collect what falls from the sky. You just need a 32-gallon plastic trash can, brass faucet, flexible downspout, and utility knife. Cut a hole in your can's cover, attach the downspout to your gutter, and then connect the two components. Wait for the rain and then use your faucet to tap into the magic.

Modified Mowing

How often and how short you cut your grass has an impact on its overall health as well. There's no one-size-fits-all approach, unfortunately. Regardless, grass cut too short can be more prone to problems like weeds, drought, and heat damage. So, if you're experiencing little precipitation, it's a good idea to let grasses grow taller as a defense. For guidelines on how tall or short you should keep your grass in general, call your local extension office, garden center, or seed supplier.

Clover Comeback

So many of our neighbors seem to battle to keep white clover out all season long. We've embraced clover because it's actually a natural way to crowd out weeds. Clover also spreads quickly and covers the ground with greenery to blend with your other grasses. It grows well in shadier areas of your lawn and those with poor drainage. Best yet, it's a legume and can convert nitrogen into its own free fertilizer. Learn to love this misunderstood ground cover!

What are some natural ways you care for your lawn?

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This article is from Ashley Marcin of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Here's How Much Getting the Greenest Lawn Will Cost You

Aaron Crowe — Thu, 07 Apr 2016 09:00:14 +0000

In the American view of what a front yard should look like, a green lawn is up there with a white picket fence and an American flag.

The ideal home has its costs, with a green lawn being more expensive than some rocks and a few plants. And that's before you factor in maintenance and other costs to keep a grass lush and alive.

Whether you start with grass seed, put down sod, or install a synthetic lawn, a green lawn can be an expensive way to increase curb appeal. Based on a yard size of 2,000 square feet, here's a breakdown of those three methods, starting with the cheapest.

Seed

There are a few ways to start a lawn by planting grass seed. Without going into all of the details on how to prepare a lawn for seeding, this can still be a labor-intensive job and may be something you want to hire a professional for. Prep work can include removing dead materials and weeds, adding at least four inches of fresh topsoil or tilling the existing ground, and making the ground level.

If you're going to do it yourself, you can buy a 50-pound bag of Kentucky bluegrass seed for about $100, or a three-pound bag for about $15. Depending on where you live, two three-pound bags may be enough to start a new lawn on 2,000 square feet.

Total Cost: $30

Another method of seeding is broadcast seeding, where dry grass seed is spread on prepared ground, watered thoroughly, and covered with straw. With $30 in seeds and about $45 for three bales of hay, you're in business.

Total Cost: $75

A more costly method is hydroseeding, also called hydraulic mulch seeding. A slightly thickened mixture of seeds, mulch, and other material is pumped from a tank onto the ground. Little prep work is required.

Hydroseeding costs six cents to 20 cents per square foot, or $120 to $400 for 2,000 square feet. This is just for the seeding and doesn't include labor or other costs that go with it, such as water from your home. The slurry mixture of hydroseeding includes fertilizer, green dye, and a tackifying agent to help keep everything where it needs to be.

Expect the equipment and professional labor of hydroseeding to cost two to four times the cost of the seed. Since you're unlikely to own the equipment for this process, plan on hiring a professional for $240 to $1,600.

Total Cost: Up to $2,000

Sod

Laying sod yourself can save half the cost of a professional, though your back may not thank you for the savings. The prep work can be difficult by itself, but add in the tasks of unloading rolls of sod from a truck and laying them down in neat patterns and you'll be busy for an entire day.

Sod costs eight cents to 30 cents per square foot, putting our 2,000-square-foot lawn at $160 to $600.

Delivery can range from free to half the total cost of the sod. You may also need to buy or rent tools such as a rake, rototiller, and lawn roller, and seeds for spot seeding after the sod is installed. Assuming you own all of the supplies or can borrow them from someone for free, your total cost is as much as $600 if you do all of the work. If you hire a professional, the sod will cost 14 cents to 60 cents per square foot, or $280 to $1,200.

The shape of your yard will affect the labor costs. A flat, square area is easier and cheaper to lay sod than a curved area with slopes. Expect labor to cost at least twice as much as doing it yourself, pushing a $600 job into a $1,200 one.

Total Cost: $1,200 or more

Synthetic

Synthetic, artificial grass can look like the real thing, and can save you a lot of money in the long run because it doesn't need water. A 12x6' patch of fake grass costs about $100, meaning that about 2,000 square feet would cost about $2,800. And that's a deal.

Home Depot sells a top-of-the-line synthetic grass for about $4 per square foot, or $8,000 for our 2,000 square feet. The turf usually comes in 15-foot widths and installation requires a lot of steps, such as adding a seam between sections. Expect professional installation to cost double what the synthetic grass costs alone.

Total Cost: $16,000

Ready to Work?

If you're willing to do the work yourself, seeding can be the least expensive route to a new, green lawn. For a few bags of seed and a lot of prep work, the seed might catch and you'll have a new lawn. If you want to avoid all of the work and costs of installation and ongoing upkeep of a green lawn, save your pennies and have synthetic grass installed. It may even look better than real grass, though your bank account won't.

How do you keep your landscape the envy of the neighborhood?

This article is from Aaron Crowe of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

5 Ways to Restart Your Resolutions This Spring

Marla Walters — Fri, 22 Jan 2016 12:00:04 +0000

Sure, I resolved to "be better about flossing" and "do more crunches" in my list of resolutions for 2016. I even spoke my resolutions aloud in my work wellness group to reinforce ethem. And then, upon re-reading them, I wondered how long those goals would last. A little research told me that only 8% of people who make resolutions actually achieve them.

As it turns out, maybe New Year's just isn't the best time to make resolutions. Maybe we should all be waiting until the snow melts and the flowers start to bloom. Isn't that a better setting to tap into your motivated self anyway? Here are five ways to restart your resolutions this spring, so you actually achieve them.

1. Remember That Goals Can Be Made Anytime

We like to make resolutions in January, because it's the traditional time to do so, and that "new year, fresh start" feeling is palpable and contagious. By breaking free of that January tradition, you might be able to actually achieve success. According to StatisticBrain, the top New Year's Resolutions in 2015 were:

Lose weight
Spend less, save more
Enjoy life to the fullest
Stay fit and healthy
Learn something exciting
Quit smoking
Help others
Fall in love
Spend more time with family

Sure, it's easy to hop on the scale January 1 and resolve to move more and consume less, but when the days are short and your energy is at an all-time low, it can be tough to get motivated. Why not start that new fitness chapter of your life once the snow melts and when being outdoors is actually bearable?

And for "spend less, save more," wouldn't reviewing your financial goals after your taxes are done make more sense? That's a very natural time to review what you've done, and see where you need to work harder. April, then, could be a month to begin setting financial goals.

Many of these resolutions can be implemented at any point during the year. There is nothing magical about starting them in January.

2. Learn to Exercise Because You Want to, Not Because You Have To

A soon-to-be-published Duke University study found that measurement of exercise "Has these pernicious effects. Enjoyable activities can become almost like a job, by forcing out the outcomes of things that used to be fun," said Professor Etkin, of the results.

I'm guilty of that. I like to write tasks down, and then cross them off. In doing those crunches, I'm not focusing on whether I'm doing them well, and using good form. I'm just counting them. I see a lot of this on Twitter, in tweets about how far a person has walked, or the amount of exercise performed. Instead, find something that's actually enjoyable, and it will feel less like a chore and more like a treat. (See also: 5 Things Yoga Can Teach You About Money)

3. Get Focused on Being Frugal

What do many of us do in January? We pay, or begin to pay, our credit card bills. Christmas was merry, but the Macy's bill isn't. And yet, what do we do? Join gyms. Buy exercise equipment. We pile debt upon debt in the name of self-improvement. And then tax season hits and we're back to suffering through another financial stress period.

Once Tax Day passes, look at springtime as a fresh start for your finances. Banish the urge to buy a new spring wardrobe and focused on becoming more frugally-minded instead.

4. Use Winter as a Recovery Period

After the delightful fun vibe of the holiday season, we put away our decorations and gear up for the new year. Many of us have put off big work projects until the holidays are over, since it's frustrating trying to coordinate meetings or meet deadlines at the end of the year. So, work in the winter becomes one long day after another. If you have resolved to go to the gym before or after work, that's just one more thing you need to get done each day. If you are already stressed about bills, work, family pressures, or other areas of your life, this is the wrong time to try to "better yourself."

What's best is to get your life in a calmer place, first. Think of winter as a recovery time for every aspect of your life, and use the dewy beauty of spring for rejuvenation and goal achievement.

5. Go Slow and Steady Toward Your Goals

Would you like to make a lot of self-improvements? First, remember that Rome wasn't built in a day. Next, try making a list. Pick the one thing on that list that is the most important to you. Make sure it's realistic. When you feel you are ready to try to achieve this goal (meaning not stressed out about other parts of your life), give it a while. If, after a month or two, you are sticking with it, then add another. Be like the tortoise, and you'll get there way before the hare.

Will you restart your resolutions this spring? Let us know in the comments!

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This article is from Marla Walters of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

12 New Ways to Use Fresh Herbs in the Kitchen

Ashley Marcin — Fri, 05 Jun 2015 17:00:59 +0000

I don't know about you, but each spring I get this itch to grow my own herb garden. I tend to the plants all spring and summer long. But I am often stuck on what to actually do with the fruits of my labor. Here are some simple ideas for what to do with herbs in your kitchen. Feel free to add your own ideas in the comments! (Related: 12 Herbs and Spices Every Pantry Should Have)

1. Pesto

Try whipping up a tasty pesto spread with your fresh herbs. This cilantro pesto comes together in a flash. Simply pulse almonds in a food processor before adding the herbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. You could substitute basil for the cilantro in this recipe (and try pine nuts instead of almonds).

2. Salad Dressing

Jazz up standard salad dressing by adding herbs. Here's a recipe for cilantro lime ranch dressing — just add the herbs, lime juice, jalapeño pepper, tomatillo, and garlic to store bought ranch. Process until smooth and creamy.

3. Hummus

This lemon-dill hummus recipe will take your chickpea spread to another level. The recipe calls for dried beans, but you can also substitute canned if you're in a hurry. It's best to let the flavors mingle overnight if you can. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs.

4. Salad

If you don't love lettuce in your salads, try this plum Caprese with buffalo mozzarella. You'll slice tomatoes and cheese before arranging on the plate. Tear fresh basil leaves over everything and drizzle with balsamic vinegar.

5. Pizza

Herbs make homemade pizza gourmet without much effort. The key is to wait until your pie is done baking (or — in this case — grilling) before adding basil or other herbs. Otherwise the leaves will wilt or dry up.

6. Cocktails

There are numerous adult beverages that rely on herbs for their zing. Take this delicious mojito recipe, for example. You'll bruise fresh mint leaves by placing them on your hand and clapping to release their flavor and aroma. Then toss in your glass before adding the liquor and other ingredients.

7. Infused Water

Add zero calorie flavor to water and other beverages by infusing them with herbs. The process is about as basic as you can get. Fill a container with water. Then take whatever fresh herbs you'd like to use and crush them gently. Add to your container and let sit for several hours or overnight.

8. Cake

Lavender is wonderful inside and outside this lemon-lavender cake. Pulse fresh lavender in your food processor with sugar, butter, lemon zest, and salt. Transfer to a large bowl and add eggs, flour, and ground almonds. After baking and icing, garnish with more fresh lavender flowers.

9. Biscuits

We can thank Julia Child for this herb biscuits recipe. Take fresh parsley and chives and mince them. Mix the dry biscuit ingredients together, toss in the herbs, and then add the wet ingredients. Bake to golden brown perfection. Tip: I use a ball jar ring to cut my biscuit dough into perfect portions.

10. Butter

Create your own steak butter using fresh herbs. This recipe combines roasted garlic with rosemary, parsley, and sage. Add everything to the softened butter before rolling into a log and chilling. And the concept doesn't need to stop with meat. Mince up your favorite herbs and use the butter on biscuits, toast, or whatever else needs a kick.

11. Soup

You can also incorporate herbs into soup for added flavor. This lemongrass and ginger soup is light and relatively easy to make. You'll simmer chicken stock (use veggie stock if you're vegetarian) with the lemongrass and ginger to release all the aromatic goodness. Remove herbs and sprinkle in chopped mushrooms before serving.

12. Preserve

If keeping up with the garden is just too much, try preserving your herbs for later use. My favorite method? Freezing herbs olive oil. Clean and coarsely chop herbs. Place them in an ice cube tray and then cover with olive oil. Freeze overnight, then transfer to labeled bags. The flavors will infuse right in your freezer. (Related: How to Store Herbs to Make Them Last Longer and Taste Better)

What fresh herbs do you grow? How do you use them?

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This article is from Ashley Marcin of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Best Money Tips: Cleaning Tips That Can Save You Money

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 08 Apr 2014 09:00:28 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some great articles on cleaning tips that will save you money, awesome ways to give, and finding small appliances for cheap.

Best Money Tips: Best Things to Buy in the Spring

Ashley Jacobs — Fri, 28 Mar 2014 10:00:17 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some awesome articles on the best things to buy in the spring, amazing meals for $5 or less, and overcoming mistakes.

Best Money Tips: Save Money Spring Cleaning

Ashley Jacobs — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 10:00:32 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some awesome articles on saving money spring cleaning, making your wedding venue more affordable, and tax mistakes to avoid.

Best Money Tips: Free (and Almost Free) Spring Family Fun

Ashley Jacobs — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 10:00:30 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some fantastic articles on spring family fun, ways to spring-clean your budget, and reducing your income taxes.

Best Money Tips: Spring-Clean Your Closet and Make Money

Ashley Jacobs — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 10:00:30 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some awesome articles on spring cleaning your closet and making money, requesting a tax extension, and getting on the road to riches.

Best Money Tips: Frugal Ways to Enjoy Spring

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 09:48:44 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some awesome articles on frugal was to enjoy spring, how to make your side business a success, and managing financial risk.