This Home Made Life logo

Trish

3 Ways to Make Your Bathroom the Best Room in the House

Unfortunately, the bathroom usually gets the short end of the stick at home. It’s often treated like a purely functional space—get in, get out, move on. But what if it could be more? What if your bathroom was actually your favorite room in the house? Really, it’s possible.

Here are 3 ways to make it happen.

Spa-Like

You want that ‘ahh’ feeling when you step in. Start by creating a vibe that calms you down and lifts you up. Think soft lighting, neutral tones, and textures that feel good to the touch (like a wooden stool, woven baskets, or a cozy bath mat.) And add some indoor plants, and you’re closer to good vibes in your bathroom. Not the rushed, get-ready-for-work kind—more like, take-a-breath-and-soak kind.

Scent matters too. Invest in essential oils, a reed diffuser, or even just a candle that makes your bathroom smell like eucalyptus and not, well… real life.

The key here however is to choose elements that feel natural to you. Don’t go full zen temple if you’re more farmhouse-chic or minimal-industrial. Just keep it calm, consistent, and personal.

Organize It Like You Actually Live There

You know those bathrooms in magazines? Gorgeous, but completely unrealistic. Where’s the half-used lotion bottle? Where’s the hair stuff?

Instead, focus on storage solutions that make sense for everyday life. That might mean clear containers in drawers, floating shelves, or a built-in niche in the shower if you’re doing a bit of renovation. The goal is to make everything easy to reach and easy on the eyes.

One way to do this organically is by editing what you already have before adding anything new. Toss the products you haven’t used in six months, combine half-empty bottles, and streamline your routine. Then build your storage around what you actually use.

You’ll see for yourself how a well-organized bathroom instantly feels more expensive, more serene, more… “put together.”

Renovate Naturally

You don’t have to gut the entire room and start from scratch. A truly great bathroom feels like it grew into its vibe over time. Maybe you replace the sink fixtures one month, swap the mirror the next, and finally repaint the walls when you feel inspired. That’s what renovating organically means.

Let the space reflect your lifestyle as it changes. Maybe you install a water-saving showerhead because you’re leaning into sustainability. Or you update the tiles with a natural stone look because you want something that wears well and feels grounded. These kinds of upgrades aren’t just about style but also about intention.

And when your bathroom reflects who you are and how you live? That’s when it becomes the best room in the house.

So, ready to turn your bathroom into your happy place? Start small, and stay true to your vibe!

 

3 Things To Do When Your Small Business Goes Viral

While every business owner wants their company to be successful, many businesses who find themselves going viral online weren’t necessarily planning for this. As a result, they often find that they’re not prepared for the stress and strain that this can put on their business. However, there are things that business owners can do or can be prepared to do if and when this happens so that they can take advantage of this opportunity and propel their business forward.

To help you see how this can be done, here are three things to do when your small business goes viral.

Know That You’ll Find Gaps In Your System

While you might have started to feel like your small business was a well-oiled machine before you went viral, the sudden influx of business might show you just what parts of your business you hadn’t quite gotten right yet. And while this can be scary to find out in real time, if you’re flexible, you can quickly learn how to fill these gaps and get things back on track.

Ideally, you should try your best to be agile so that you can quickly and easily make adjustments in your systems and find solutions to any problems that might arise. And although there will likely still be a lot of trial and error, knowing that you’re going to be finding problems that you’ll then have to fix can help you be more accepting of these things.

Consider Manufacturing Adjustments

One of the biggest adjustments that you’ll likely have to make if your business goes viral is to your manufacturing. If you’re used to having smaller orders, getting a huge influx of orders can be both a blessing and a curse.

As you think about your manufacturing, you might need to find additional suppliers and vendors so that you can handle the orders that you’re receiving. You may also need to hire some more help with things like managing your warehouse, unloading trucks of products, and so much more.

Streamline Your Ordering And Payment Systems

Depending on how you handled orders and payments before you went viral, you might need to quickly find a new way to go about things.

If you’re starting to now get a lot of orders from different countries, you’re going to want to make sure that you have a reliable and legitimate way to take these orders, take these payments, and get your products to those people. Streamlining this by using reputable services will make this a whole lot easier for you.

If you’ve just experienced your small business going viral and you’re not sure how best to proceed, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you make it through this tough transition time.

 

3 Tips for Making Your Roof Last Longer

Your roof is so much more than something to protect your house against the rain and snow. It’s its first defense against all sorts of elements, from trees to wind to even lightning. Because it’s such a complex and central part of a home, replacing it can be nothing short of one of the most expensive repairs you’ll ever face as a homeowner.

The good news is that, with a little bit of foresight and some attention, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your roof. By taking some precautions, you can manage to make your roof last up to a decade more simply by making a few lifestyle changes. Regardless of what kind of roofing you have, from metal panels to asphalt shingles, here are some practical tips for making it last just a little longer.

Schedule Inspections

You go to the doctor for annual checkups, and so should your roof! That’s right—just like you, your roof needs to be regularly inspected. A professional roofer should inspect your roof once a year and anytime after a major storm. They will be able to spot early signs of trouble, like any loose or cracked shingles or minor leaks.

These kinds of issues are so much easier to fix early on rather than letting them linger and cause even further damage. Remember, ideally you should schedule these inspections with a professional, as climbing up on your roof is extremely dangerous. Thousands of deaths happen each year as a result of inexperienced homeowners climbing up on their roofs and suffering a fatal fall.

Keep Gutters Clean

Cleaning gutters may seem like an annoying part of your spring cleaning list. After all, getting up there is nothing short of a nuisance to clean out all of the sticks, leaves, and other guck. However, leaving this debris to accumulate will start to clog your gutters to the point that water can’t drain anymore, and it will ultimately lead to overflow. Overflow means letting stagnant water sit on your roof, and eventually, rot will occur.

This is why you must clean your gutters at least twice a year, if not more—especially if you have trees surrounding your home. You should also ensure that the downspouts from your gutters are directing water away from your foundation rather than towards it. This simple act can save you thousands of dollars in damage.

Trim Surrounding Trees

Trees provide shade and beauty for your home. Yet, they can also pose a serious risk to the health of your roof. Branches that hang too close can scrape up against your home’s shingles and wear away your roof over time. Not to mention that during a storm, trees risk falling onto your home and damaging it. Trimming back your trees will prevent physical damage and also discourage little critters who live in the trees from climbing onto your roof and making a mess.

 

Enhance Your Home’s Ambiance with Premier St George Cleaning Services

A spotless home does more than just look nice. Recent research shows that tidier spaces improve focus, lift moods, and lower stress. In addition, homes cleaned regularly have fewer germs, which means better health for everyone inside. Professional cleaning is more than an aesthetic upgrade; it’s a practical step toward wellness that saves time and reduces daily stress.

Harnessing Efficiency with St George Cleaning Pros

St George cleaning pros use training and equipment to finish difficult chores quickly, freeing up hours that people spend scrubbing and disinfecting. For homeowners seeking consistency and attention to detail, St George cleaning services offer vetted teams, flexible scheduling, and satisfaction guarantees.

Here are common tasks completed faster by seasoned professionals:

  • Oven Degreasing: Experts lift baked-on grease from oven walls and burners, often without the harsh fumes from over-the-counter sprays.
  • Grout Scrubbing: Special tools and safe chemical solutions remove deep stains and mold in kitchen and bathroom grout.
  • Full-Home Turnover: After tenants move out or before a special event, cleaners refresh every room, including seldom-touched corners and baseboards.

Professionals deliver precise results because they know which products are safe for each surface. They avoid damage and keep household air free from unnecessary odors. With these experts on the job, residents gain precious hours, time better spent on family, work, or relaxation.

Eco-Conscious Tips from St George Cleaning Specialists

St George cleaning specialists lead by using safer, greener options. The trend toward eco-friendly cleaning makes it easier to maintain a healthy home and a healthier planet.

Two reliable green cleaning approaches:

  • Plant-Derived Concentrates: Multi-surface cleaners with plant extracts break down grease and grime but do not pollute indoor air or leave toxic residue.
  • Microfiber Systems: Microfiber cloths and mops trap dust and microbes using only water. These tools last through hundreds of wash cycles, greatly reducing landfill waste.

Benefits include:

  • Better indoor air quality for allergy or asthma sufferers.
  • Less chemical runoff into local waterways.

Homeowners should ask providers about certified-green or fragrance-free products before booking. This helps guarantee a safer clean for kids, pets, and anyone with sensitivities.

Crafting Personalized Plans with St George Cleaning Firms

St George cleaning firms offer a range of packages for homes and small offices, allowing clients to adjust services to their needs. Some options frequently requested include:

Package Name Typical Tasks
Deep Kitchen Renewal Clean cabinet fronts, appliance interiors, and baseboards
Monthly Maintenance Dust and polish, vacuum lines, sanitize bathrooms
A la Carte Add-Ons Upholstery refresh, window-track clearing, pet-hair removal

These services can be mixed to fit any household:

  • Families with young children often choose frequent kitchen and playroom cleaning.
  • Remote workers may prefer regular dusting and window cleaning to keep office areas fresh.

Customer feedback consistently shows strong approval rates. For example, one recent summary found that 95% of clients reported satisfaction with appointment punctuality and cleaning thoroughness.

Stepping into Sparkling Serenity

Professional cleaners deliver reliable results, eco-friendly solutions, and flexible service options. The impact goes beyond tidiness; it can clear mental clutter and support better daily routines. To brighten any home’s atmosphere, consider reaching out to a trusted team of St George cleaning experts for a space that feels healthier, inside and out.

 

3 Floor Care Routines Every Homeowner Needs

Taking care of your floors means more than just keeping them clean. It’s how you keep your home fresh, cozy, and welcoming. Whether you have hardwood, tile, or carpet, a simple routine can really stretch the life of your floors.

Here’s what you want to do to stay ahead.

Daily: Quick Sweeps and Wipe-Ups

Daily care isn’t hard once you get into the rhythm. Dirt, dust, and crumbs pile up fast, and if you leave them sitting there, they can scratch and wear down the surface. You want to:

  • Sweep or vacuum the spots you walk on most.
  • Wipe up spills as soon as they happen.

Hardwood and tile floors especially hate sitting water, so even if it’s just a few drops, wipe them right away. If you’ve got carpet, blot spills—don’t rub them. Rubbing pushes the mess deeper in and makes it harder to clean later. Think of this daily routine like giving your floors a quick refresh, just like making your bed every morning.

Weekly: Deeper Cleaning Sessions

Weekly cleaning is where you slow down a bit and give your floors more attention. So,

  • Mop hard floors using a damp (not soaking) mop and a cleaner made for your floor type.
  • Vacuum carpets properly, going over each spot a few times to pull out hidden dust.
  • Shake out or vacuum rugs and clean under them where dirt loves to hide.

This is also the time to spot little scuffs, dents, or worn areas you might miss during quick sweeps. Catching problems early means you can fix them easily before they turn into bigger issues. Plus, deep cleaning just makes your whole home feel fresher.

Monthly: Bring in a Flooring Maintenance Contractor

Sometimes you need a professional. Bringing in a flooring maintenance contractor once in a while saves you from costly repairs later. Here’s why you want to do it:

  • They spot small issues like cracks, warps, or loose tiles that you might not even notice.
  • They use professional equipment to deep clean, polish, or reseal floors way better than anything you can rent at the store.
  • For carpets, they can steam clean and pull out dirt and allergens trapped deep down.

Hiring a pro once every few months or even twice a year keeps your floors healthy and looking brand new. It’s also a smart move if you’re planning to sell your home soon. Good floors can bump up your home’s value more than you think.

Keeping your floors in top shape doesn’t have to be a huge project. A quick daily sweep, a weekly deep clean, and some help from a flooring maintenance contractor now and then are all you really need. Stick to this simple routine and your floors will stay beautiful, strong, and ready for whatever life throws their way.

 

5 Tips for a Cozy Living Room

Everyone knows that feeling when you walk into a space and immediately want to curl up in a blanket and never leave. That’s the kind of cozy we’re talking about. Creating a cozy living room like that isn’t just about aesthetics, however—it’s all about creating the right environment that feels warm, welcoming, and inviting after a long day of work. From adding the right furniture to incorporating the right color scheme, here are some helpful tips for creating a cozy living room.

Layer

Whether you’re getting dressed or you’re decorating your living room, the same rules apply—layers make a world of difference when it comes to being cozy. The more you can incorporate soft textures like throw pillows and rugs, the more you’ll feel like you’re settled into a fluffy cloud in your living room.

While you’re at it, always keep a nice fuzzy blanket in your living room, as you never know when you might want to get warm and cozy, which is what a blanket is best for. After all, there’s nothing like a cozy living room to invoke a spontaneous nap.

Lighting

Lighting is critical when it comes to creating the right environment. Overhead lights might be functional, but they’re hardly inviting or cozy-feeling. Soft and warm lighting is essential. From table lamps to floor lamps to fairy lights and candles, the more cozy lighting you can incorporate, the more you’ll feel like your living room is your own special haven.

Create a Nook

Cozy spaces are all about nooks. In other words, a cozy space that’s designated to just relax. Maybe a reading corner with a comfy chair, or maybe a little side table with a candle and a chair. Whatever it is, make a space that makes you feel cozy, at home, and comfortable.

Whatever it is, make your cozy nook a place where you feel good and relaxed—the kind of place where you want to drink tea and forget all your worries.

Incorporate Nature

Bringing in a little bit of nature is just what the doctor ordered. Whether it’s adding plants or even a fireplace, the more you can incorporate natural elements into your living room, the more you’ll feel grounded and cozy. Fresh flowers, plants, and anything natural breathe literal life into a room and can make it a wonderful place to be.

Make it Personal

The coziest rooms are the ones that are personalized and feel actually lived in. Something sterile and lacking personalization is hardly somewhere that you feel yourself in. Remember, cozy doesn’t necessarily mean showroom perfect—it means somewhere that feels like it’s yours. The more personality you layer into your living space, the more you’ll feel comfortable and at ease.

 

5 Ways to Stay Strong and Healthy

When it comes to staying strong and healthy, that doesn’t always mean hitting the gym six days a week or eating salads for every meal. More often than not, it’s about integrating small, manageable habits into your everyday life. These habits will in turn, help you feel energized, focused, and capable—without feeling like it’s too much effort. Here are some ways to stay strong and healthy that don’t even require a gym membership.

Get an Active Job

Movement— It’s an essential part of staying healthy. Yet you don’t have to become a marathon runner or deadlift twice your body weight to build strength. Some people get incredibly strong just by doing the work they do. From unloading heavy shipments at a warehouse job or working in a restaurant on your feet, this kind of work builds real-world strength. You are lifting, squatting and moving with purpose— with a paycheck!

In other words, you get to work out and get paid for it! The idea is that physical activity doesn’t always have to be specifically at the gym. If you’re moving your body and challenging your muscles, it counts.

Eat Sensibly

Food plays a huge role in your physical health beyond just your silhouette. That’s right— you don’t need a shelf full of supplements or some elaborate meal plan, just real food most of the time, full of things your body recognizes. Think whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Keep it simple, and don’t beat yourself up over the occasional burger or cupcake—it’s all about balance!

Rest

Rest often gets overlooked, but it’s just as important as physical exercise when it comes to getting strong. This is because our muscles rebuild when we slee, and our minds reset. If you’re always pushing and never pausing, you’re setting yourself up for burnout. So, make time to rest, get a good nights sleep, and take short breaks during the day. Because a well-rested body is a strong one.

Limit Your Stress Levels

Easier said than done, but the less stress you have in your life, the better! Everyone’s got stress in one form or another, but managing it is critical to maintaining your overall health. Whether it’s doing things like journaling, going for a walk, talking to a friend, or even just taking a few deep breaths, having a way to decompress helps keep your body and mind resilient.

Connect With Others

Surrounding yourself with people who uplift and support you can be a wonderful tool for staying healthy. Laughter, conversation, shared experiences—all of these things aren’t just good for the soul, they’re good for your body too. Even though life can get busy, and it can be a challenge to try and set aside time to see your friends and family, it’s a critical part of maintaining your health.

 

3 Things to Teach Your Spouse About Indoor Fire Safety

Fire safety isn’t the most exciting topic for a date night chat, but it’s one of those things you really want to be on the same page about. A small mistake can quickly turn into a dangerous situation, so it’s worth making sure both of you know what to do.

Here are 3 things to go over with your spouse to keep your home safe.

Stay Ahead with Regular Safety Checks

The best way to prevent a fire is to catch risks before they become a problem. Take a few minutes every couple of months to do a fire safety walkthrough together. Check smoke alarms—do they work? When was the last time you changed the batteries? If you have a fire extinguisher, is it still within its expiration date?

Beyond that, keep an eye out for hazards like overloaded outlets, frayed appliance cords, or anything flammable too close to heat sources. If you have a fireplace, getting your chimney inspected is a must—built-up soot and debris can cause dangerous chimney fires. The kitchen is another fire hotspot, so make sure stovetops are clear, and that no one’s leaving an oven mitt or kitchen towel too close to an open flame. This kind of regular checkup takes almost no time but can make a huge difference.

Have a Game Plan for Emergencies

If a fire actually starts, you both need to know what to do. First off, make sure you both understand how to use a fire extinguisher—just owning one isn’t enough. The basic rule is PASS: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep side to side. Try to put out small fires, but if it’s growing fast, don’t waste time—just get out.

Speaking of getting out, talk through your escape plan. What’s the quickest way out from different rooms in the house? If one exit is blocked, what’s the backup plan? If you have kids, how will you get them out? Decide on a meeting point outside so no one has to guess if the other made it out safely. It might feel unnecessary, but in a real emergency, having a plan could save lives.

Practice Smart Daily Habits

A lot of house fires happen because of small, everyday habits that people don’t think twice about.

Teach your spouse to double-check that candles are blown out before leaving a room and that space heaters aren’t left unattended. Encourage them to get in the habit of unplugging appliances like toasters or coffee makers when they’re not in use.

 

By staying proactive, having a solid escape plan, and practicing smart daily habits, you and your spouse can keep your home safe. And hey, if nothing else, going over these tips together might just be a great reason to spend some time together.

 

Here’s How to Host an Inclusive Family Dinner Anywhere

Bringing the whole family together for a meal sounds simple, but when you think about different dietary needs, mobility challenges, and comfort levels, it takes a little more planning. Whether you’re hosting at home, a park, or even an assisted living facility, the key is making sure everyone feels welcome and included. Here’s how to pull it off with ease.

Plan a Menu That Works for Everyone

Food is the heart of any gathering, so you want to make sure no one is left out at the dinner table. The best way to do that? Offer variety. A mix of protein options, veggies, and grains ensures that whether someone is vegetarian, gluten-free, or just a picky eater, they have something to enjoy.

Buffet-style meals or build-your-own plates—think taco bars, salad spreads, or customizable pasta bowls—make it easy for guests to pick what works for them. If you know specific allergies or restrictions, label dishes or keep certain ingredients on the side. For family members who need softer foods, offering mashed potatoes, soups, or stewed meats makes a big difference.

Drinks are just as important. Have options beyond sugary sodas—fresh juices, infused water, or caffeine-free teas ensure everyone has something they enjoy. And when it comes to dessert, having both traditional treats and lighter, fruit-based options keeps things inclusive.

Choose a Space That’s Comfortable for All

Where you host the dinner matters just as much as what’s on the table. If you’re at home, think about accessibility—make sure there’s enough space for anyone using a walker or wheelchair, and keep seating flexible with cushions or chairs that offer extra support.

Outdoor gatherings can be a great option, but pick a spot with shade and restrooms nearby. If you’re setting up tables outside, consider table heights that work for everyone, including children and those with mobility limitations. Indoors, arranging seating in a way that allows easy movement and conversation is key—no one should feel stuck in a corner.

Lighting also plays a role. Soft, warm lighting is more comfortable for older family members, while good visibility helps those who rely on lip reading or have vision challenges. If you’re dining in a larger space, a round-table setup can keep conversations flowing naturally.

Keep the Atmosphere Warm and Engaging

A family dinner isn’t just about food—it’s about connection. Conversation starters, storytelling, or simple games like “two truths and a lie” can make everyone feel included. If multiple generations are present, mixing up the seating helps create new interactions.

Music can help set the mood, but keep it low enough for easy conversation. If some family members have hearing difficulties, background noise should be minimal.

Most importantly, don’t stress about making things perfect. An inclusive family dinner is about making sure everyone feels valued, comfortable, and happy—wherever you’re gathering.

 

3 Tips for Stay at Home Moms

Being a stay at home mom may seem like a walk in the park for some people. After all, staying at home must mean that you do nothing, right? Ha! What people don’t realize is that being a stay at home mom is one of the hardest jobs out there.

That’s because you don’t get to clock out or leave the office. In fact, you have to work 24 hours a day and live, sleep and eat where you work! You don’t get to walk away and rest when your job is running the household. T

hat’s why it’s so important for stay at home moms to practice self-care. If we let ourselves burn out, we won’t just find ourselves exhausted, and possibly even sick, we could find ourselves having a mental breakdown. Fear not, it’s possible to stay sane ladies. Here are some great tips to help you thrive as a stay at home mom.

Take Care of Yourself

As a stay at home mom your first instinct may be to look after others before yourself. Yet, you have to look after yourself as well. Whether it’s easing a sore back, or getting enough rest, don’t forget to give yourself the tools you need to function at your best. Otherwise, you’re not only going to feel lousy yourself, but you’re not going to be able to take care of your family.

Carve Out “Me Time”

Looking after your basic needs and well-being is hardly considered “me time.” Remember to also set a time for you to enjoy doing things you like. Maybe it could be going to the movies, or getting a pedicure. “Me time” can vary from person to person. The most important thing to keep in mind is that it’s critical to find little pockets of time just for you where you don’t feel guilty about doing something that makes you feel good.

Get Out

Getting out of the house is critical, especially when you’re a full time stay at home mom. It’s easy to get trapped into the day by day vortex of parenthood, and forgetting what it’s like to go outside. The self- infected isolation that comes along with being a stay at home mom can start to wear on your mental well-being so make sure you prioritize changing things up sometimes.

Getting outside of the house can be anything from going for a walk, to taking the kids to the park. Heck, even going to target counts as going outside of the house! The idea is to get a little fresh air and change your scenery to transform your mood and boost your energy levels. Remember, cabin fever is real, and it can turn you into a gremlin if you’re not careful!