Unwinterize a Spigot with Kevin Szabo Jr Plumbing

As the weather begins to warm up and spring rolls around, it’s time to start thinking about unwinterizing your spigot. If you live in an area that experiences freezing temperatures during the winter, you likely took precautions to protect your outdoor faucets from the cold weather. Now that it’s getting warmer, it’s time to reverse those steps and prepare your spigot for use again.

Here’s how to unwinterize a spigot:

1. Turn off the water supply to the spigot

   The first step in unwinterizing a spigot is to turn off the water supply to the spigot. This is typically done by turning a valve located near the spigot. If you can’t find the valve, turn off the main water supply to your house.

2. Next, remove any insulation or covers you added to the spigot to protect it during the winter. This may include foam covers or insulation tape. Check to make sure there are no cracks or damage to the spigot.

3. After removing the insulation, check for leaks by turning on the water supply and checking for any water dripping from the spigot or the pipes connected to it. If you find any leaks, turn off the water supply and make necessary repairs.

4. To flush the pipes, turn on the spigot and let the water run for a few minutes. This will clear out any debris or stagnant water that may have accumulated in the pipes during the winter.

5. After flushing the pipes, check the water pressure by turning on the spigot all the way. If the pressure is low, it may be due to a partially closed valve or a buildup of mineral deposits in the pipes. In this case, you may need to clean the pipes or replace the valve.

6. Once you’ve checked the water pressure, turn off the spigot and attach a hose to it. Turn the water supply back on and test the spigot to make sure it’s working properly. Check for leaks and make sure the water is flowing freely.

By following these steps, you can safely and effectively unwinterize your spigot and get it ready for use in the spring and summer months. It’s important to take the time to properly maintain your outdoor faucets to avoid any problems or damage in the future.

What are the benefits of using a shower standing handle?

Wondering how you can enhance safety in your bathroom? Shower standing handles are great in preventing bathroom falls and therefore improving safety. They can ease your entry into the shower and make exciting seamless, even with wet hands and feet. All you need to do is ensure that the suction-type handle has been installed correctly, for it to fully serve its purpose.  

Here is everything you should know about the shower standing handle. From how to choose the best one, to how to use it for maximum safety, to who can benefit from a shower standing handle, and even a few of the best options that are available on the market.

Read on as I explain the shower standing handle in more detail, together with why it’s beneficial to install.

What is a shower standing handle?

Also known as a shower grab bar, the shower standing handle is basically a bathroom accessory that is particularly helpful to anyone with limited mobility. Having limited mobility may be even more problematic while getting in or out of the shower. The shower standing handle helps in reducing the risk of falling, thus making the shower experience safer and stress free for everyone.

A shower standing handle may seem like a simple solution, but it is extremely effective in reducing bathroom associated risks. It is sometimes looked at as a solution for the elderly and someone that needs some extra support, but shower standing handles can be helpful to everyone in the family. 

Advantages of a shower standing handle

Shower standing handles are a great addition to making your bathroom look elegant. Here are some other benefits that will make this a worthwhile investment.

• They are great at enhancing safety in the bathroom area, hence a better shower experience for all.

• They will provide you with the peace of mind needed while showering.

• They are flexible and can be installed at different heights, depending on the specific users’ needs.

• Are a must have for people who are unstable or are struggling with balance.

• There is increased bathroom independence for everyone in the family.

• There are reduced chances of bathroom slips and falls, hence enhancing everyone’s health.

• They are cheaper to install as compared to the amount of money that would be used in a hospital after a fall.

Conclusion

Fixed to the wall, shower standing handles come in varying sizes, different strengths, and mounting options. The position of installation will depend on its intended purpose, and this directly impacts how effective and valuable the shower standing handle will be.

Research has shown that over half of the older adult falls occur at home, with the majority involving the bathroom area. Being a potentially hazardous place, it is better to have shower standing handles installed in your shower.

Author bio:

Alexander James is the founder of Homoper.com. It is a blog that focuses on home improvement, home decor, design, and gardening topics. With extensive knowledge and experience in these areas, Alexander is passionate about sharing his expertise with others to help them create a more comfortable and beautiful living space. Follow his blog to learn practical tips and find inspiration for improving your home and garden.

References

Homoper.Com, 2023. What You Need To Know Before Buying A Shower Standing Handle?  

https://homoper.com/shower-standing-handle/

Peng B, Lu J, Tiu G, Thiamwong L, Zhong Y,. 2022. Bathroom modifications among community-dwelling older adults who experience falls in the United States: A cross-sectional study.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33894087/

How To Choose A Swimming Pool Contractor? Top Tips

You're all set to create the backyard sanctuary of your dreams, complete with a distinctive swimming pool and breathtaking fire and water features. However, building a new pool is a significant undertaking that will require a significant amount of your resources, attention, and money.  

You certainly have a lot of questions, such as what sort of swimming pool you want to create, the materials you want to use, and the features you want to have in your pool.

Having the ideal features and design for a pool can make any property the talk of the neighborhood. If a resident wants to install an inground pool, they shouldn't hire a contractor right away. Installing a pool is a significant home improvement undertaking that requires the best knowledge possible. Find the top swimming pool contractors with the help of the following advice for homeowners. 

Now that you've made the decision to take the plunge and make the investment in the idyllic swimming pool you've always wanted, it's important to make sure you work with a pool builder who is extremely reliable, skilled, and capable. 

Customer Reviews

You know you're working with a seasoned expert with high integrity if a swimming pool contractor is willing to give you a list of past clients for a referral. To ensure high-quality and effective service, it's crucial to request a list of previous customers from pool companies you're considering hiring. You should also ask about the number of pools they've constructed, their customer references, the materials they utilized, and project management. Ask them things like how many pools they have built overall since starting their firm and how many pools they installed the year prior. Ask them how many client references they can supply from that list after you know how many pools they had in the previous year.

A warning sign that indicates subpar customer service would be if the quantity of references they are prepared to provide is significantly smaller than the overall number of jobs they accomplished in the previous year.

Additionally, you can inquire about the efficacy of the supplies used, how the contractor handled obstacles and issues that arose during the project, and whether or not the task was completed in accordance with the predetermined timeline, budget, and milestones.

Hire Qualified Companies

You must ensure that the pool contractor you hire is certified and insured. This will protect your legal rights in the event of any harm or loss. Make sure that the pool installer you intend to choose is authorized to work in your region. Ask the contractor for information about their insurance and permits to ensure that the work will be done to a high standard and according to professional work standards.  

Find Out What Services the Companies Offer

A reputable pool construction business will provide homeowners with a variety of pool maintenance services. For instance, they ought to be competent to handle all aspects of your pool project, from design and installation to water quality upkeep.

Before choosing a contractor, find out if they have expertise in performing this kind of care. They should ideally have knowledge of maintaining swimming pools that have already been built.

Guarantees

Inquire about the general liability and workers' compensation insurance coverage of any prospective contractors. A good contractor will also offer written warranties and will continue to support their items long after the installation is finished.

Remember that larger, more established businesses frequently have closer, more productive ties with producers. As a result, they can provide superior service when required.

Request to see the contractor's work samples. Look for high-end fixtures and furnishings. Learn the fundamentals of what to anticipate and inquire about the goods the contractor utilizes. 

View the Portfolio of Swimming Pool Contractors

In addition to doing this, a skilled pool builder will greatly assist you in creating your own personal pool, where you may obtain assistance if your current pool system experiences any issues.

The long-lasting nature of the pools is also strongly influenced by previous experience. To create a collection that is more essential and lasts longer, skilled contractors frequently choose sturdy foundational components that have been demonstrated to be durable. You can therefore get a sense of how the system functions from this contractor by looking at their portfolio.

Professional Group

Never hire an inexperienced swimming pool builder who employs haphazard staff; this is important for your safety and composure when swimming afterward. Inform the builder about this while discussing it prior to the pool construction process to determine if the pool constructor is composed of a team of specialists or not by looking at the results of previous projects.

Don't Let Low Pricing Entice You

Everyone wants to build a great pool at an affordable cost, but in this situation, you must be cautious when selecting a pool builder. 

Always be wary of the allure of pool builders' low pricing, examine the materials—especially the ceramics—as frequently as you can, and establish explicit partnerships so that nobody will later suffer harm.

These are some recommendations for choosing a swimming pool builder before constructing one. It's an excellent decision to start by learning about residential pools, including upkeep, requirements, and pool kinds. Particularly in maintaining a previous private swimming pool, this is quite helpful. 

Verify Affiliations

Trade organizations usually provide a list of members who promote professional development and adhere to a code of business ethics. Check to see if a contractor is a member of any such organizations. 

Finally, take an in-depth look at precisely what is included in each estimate because various contractors don't always include exactly the same high-quality materials or finishes. The only other way to evaluate a proposal's genuine worth is in this manner.

The constructed swimming pool ought to symbolize the ideal hideaway in your backyard. You need the greatest pool constructor for you as well as your house if you want to make it happen. With these pointers as a starting point, you'll be comfortable on the path to days of enjoyment and rest in your private backyard hideaway.

Internet browsing is a good place to start. Contacting a licensed pool specialist, however, will ensure that you receive the personalized assistance you require and is your single most critical step when seeking pool information.

4 Easy Ways To Improve Your House

If you want to add value to your home or just make it a more enjoyable place to live, there are lots of ways to improve it. There are plenty of options when it comes to increasing the quality and function of your home. This article will provide you with four easy tricks for improving your house quickly and efficiently.

Incorporate Technology 

Incorporating technology into your home can make your living space the ultimate in convenience and comfort. It's been established that automatic doors are energy efficient since they'll never let too much airflow unless you want to. Smart home technology has advanced exponentially in recent years, making it easier than ever to stay connected and aware of what's happening in your house.

With smart thermostats, you can control your home's temperature with your voice or from your phone no matter where you are. Lighting can be turned on or off with a single command, even when you're not home. And with home security systems that include video monitoring, you can keep an eye on your property and loved ones from anywhere you have an internet connection.

Upgrade Appliances

With newer models of appliances, you can enjoy better energy efficiency, improved functionality, and enhanced aesthetics. Not to mention, modern appliances can increase the overall value of your home if you ever decide to sell it. Imagine preparing meals in a state-of-the-art kitchen with a sleek oven and refrigerator, or relaxing in a comfortable living room equipped with a top-of-the-line entertainment system. Here are some you should update more frequently:

• refrigerator

• dishwasher

• oven/range

• washer/dryer

• air conditioner

• water heater

This can transform your home and create a more enjoyable living experience for you and your family. 

Declutter 

By removing unnecessary clutter, you create a visual calm and remove distractions, allowing you to concentrate fully on the important things in life. This improves both the aesthetics and decreases stress, while also making you more productive and giving you a sense of creativity. Say goodbye to that overstuffed cupboard and those piles of paperwork, and hello to a beautiful, serene living space. 

The process of decluttering can be daunting, but breaking it down into small steps and setting achievable goals can make it manageable and enjoyable. Give it a try, and you'll be amazed at the positive changes decluttering can bring to your home and your life.

Add More Storage 

Another great solution for a more organized home is to add more storage. Not only will this provide you with a place to neatly store your belongings, but it can also improve the overall appearance and functionality of your space. 

From installing built-in shelves to maximizing closet space, there are countless ways to increase the storage capacity of your home. Additionally, by utilizing creative storage solutions, you can add a unique touch of style to any room. The possibilities are endless.

House improvement projects don’t have to be expensive, time-consuming, or complex. With a few simple changes, you can make your living space much more comfortable and enjoyable for you, your family, and even guests. Consider investing in some modern technologies or replacing old appliances to give your home an updated look and feel. Decluttering is also key when it comes to making any room seem larger and less overwhelming. And adding stylish storage solutions can help keep items neatly organized as well. No matter the size of your house or budget restraints, there are always ways to improve it.

Make Your Home More Functional With These Useful Guidelines

Are you looking to make your home more functional and organized while also improving its aesthetic appeal? Achieving a seamless balance between practicality, comfort, and style requires thoughtful planning. Luckily, with the right guidelines in place, you can turn any space into an inviting yet highly functioning area that meets your unique needs. 

In this blog post, we take a look at some of the key steps involved in creating a well-functioning home space. From clever storage hacks to clever ways of utilizing available resources within limited spaces, we run through all the helpful information you need to make your house feel exactly how it should - a warm and welcoming haven that is both comfortable AND efficient!

Understand the Space You’re Working With

One of the fundamental aspects of interior design is understanding the space you’re working with. Whether you’re moving into a new home or revamping your current living area, taking measurements and assessing the amount of furniture and appliances you need to fit in it is vital. 

Additionally, paying attention to the shape of your home can significantly impact the design of your room, from the placement of furniture to the use of colors and lighting. As a professional designer, I strongly recommend taking the time to measure your space accurately and consider its shape before making any design decisions. Does a new thermostat for a gas fireplace or even a home automation system sound like something you’d be interested in? Is a wall-mounted TV the best solution for your living room? Once you have a grasp of the space you are working with, you’ll be better equipped to make decisions that work for your home.

Make Sure to Plan Ahead

When it comes to furnishing a room, it's important to plan ahead to ensure that you end up with a design that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional. Take into consideration the purpose and layout of each room, and determine what kind of furniture and appliances are necessary to fulfill that purpose. But don't stop there – determine which items should be placed first in order to maximize the functionality of the room, as well as its looks. By taking the time to plan out your design beforehand, you can create a space that is both stylish and practical. 

Remember, a well-designed room is not just about the furniture and appliances, it's about the way they work together to create a cohesive and functional space. In fact, a well-planned space can make all the difference between an average room and one that really stands out.

Consider Using Multi-Functional Items

When it comes to efficient living, multi-functional items are the way to go. Not only do they save space, but they also provide unparalleled convenience by offering multiple uses in a single object. Imagine having a single kitchen appliance that can act as a blender, mixer, and food processor, or a bed that can be converted into a sofa during the day. By embracing the concept of multi-functionality, you can streamline your belongings and enjoy a simplified, stress-free lifestyle. 

So next time you shop for new items, consider opting for those that can do more with less. Your wallet (and your apartment) will thank you for it. Furthermore, it's worth considering other options such as investing in repurposed or upcycled items. Not only are these often cheaper, but they also add character to a room and reduce your environmental footprint.

Focus on Organization

Maintaining a well-organized space can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be when you incorporate storage baskets, bins, or shelves into your routine. By doing so, you not only create a more visually appealing environment but also save valuable time when searching for items. With endless possibilities for customization, you can choose a style that fits both the design of the space and your personal taste. Whether it be for your home or workspace, embracing organization will leave you feeling more productive and at ease. 

So take control of your space and begin to reap the benefits of staying organized. In some instances, it may even be worth investing in a professional organizer who can help you identify the best ways to keep your space looking neat and tidy. While they may come at a cost, they can be well worth it in the long run.

Choose Pieces Wisely

When it comes to furnishing your home or office, choosing the right pieces is crucial. Not only should they be functional and comfortable, but they should also be aesthetically pleasing. This is where your taste and personal style come into play. You want to choose furniture that will not only serve its purpose but also elevate the overall look and feel of the space. Keep in mind that you want to invest in quality pieces that can withstand the test of time, both in terms of style and durability. With careful consideration and a discerning eye, you can create a cohesive and inviting space that reflects your unique personality and taste. 

Furthermore, you can add finishing touches to your room with small items such as rugs, lamps, and art. These elements bring color and life into a space and provide the perfect complement to any design. So take the time to find pieces that will help bring your vision for a room to life.

Invest in Hardscaping and Landscaping

In addition to furniture and appliances, landscaping can also play a large role in creating a cohesive and attractive space. Investing in hardscapes such as paver walkways or patios can help define the different areas of your property while adding visual appeal. Likewise, incorporating soft scape elements such as trees, shrubs, and flowers can bring life and vibrancy to a space. Whether you opt for low-maintenance options or prefer more elaborate designs, landscaping can provide a much-needed connection between your home and the outside world.

Making your home more functional can be a daunting task – but the reward of having a comfortably organized space is worth it. Begin by understanding the amount and size of the objects that you need to put in each space and make sure to come up with a plan for arranging them. Invest in vertical shelving and furniture that can multitask to save on space, and don’t forget to organize your items neatly so that you always know where everything is. Finally, remember to pick pieces wisely – focus on aesthetics as well as their function when choosing furnishings. With these guidelines, you’re bound to have your house feeling like home in no time!

Blue Collar Eats - Frosted Donuts in Tinley Park

If you're craving a sweet treat that will satisfy your sugar cravings, look no further than the frosted donuts at 17119 88th Ave in Tinley Park, IL. This local bakery is renowned for its delicious donuts, which are frosted to perfection.

One of the standout features of these frosted donuts is their texture. They are light and fluffy, with a soft, cake-like consistency that is both satisfying and indulgent. The frosting on top is rich and creamy, adding a burst of sweetness and flavor that perfectly complements the doughy base.

Whether you prefer classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate, or more adventurous combinations like maple bacon or blueberry lemon, you're sure to find something to suit your tastes at this bakery. They offer a wide variety of frosted donuts, with flavors rotating regularly, so you can always try something new.

In addition to their delectable frosted donuts, this bakery also offers a range of other sweet treats, including muffins, croissants, and pastries. They use only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients in their products, ensuring that every bite is full of flavor and satisfaction.

Whether you're looking for a morning pick-me-up, a sweet snack to share with friends, or a dessert to cap off your meal, these donuts are sure to hit the spot.

Lawn, Garden, and Tree Maintenance Tips Every Homeowner Needs to Know

Keeping a healthy and well-maintained lawn, garden, and/or trees can be an arduous task for any homeowner. Whether you’re dealing with dry spells or excessive rain, pests, frequent mowing needs, or managing plant growth; the demands of outdoor maintenance require dedication and upkeep to ensure that everything looks great throughout all four seasons of the year

For this reason, homeowners need to know important tips on how best to manage their lawns, gardens, and trees so that they remain looking good without becoming too much of a burden on your time or finances.

Create a plan and schedule

First, assess the current state of your outdoor space and make a list of maintenance tasks that need to be completed regularly. This may include watering, mowing, pruning, weeding, and fertilizing.

Next, prioritize the tasks and assign them to specific days or weeks, depending on their urgency and seasonal requirements. Make sure to schedule some time for unexpected tasks that may arise. Investing in quality tools and equipment, such as lawnmowers and pruning shears, can also make the job easier and more efficient.

With a well-structured plan and schedule, your lawn, garden, and trees will remain healthy and thriving throughout the year.

Trim trees regularly

Trees are often one of the most beautiful and treasured parts of our outdoor spaces. They provide shade, play areas, and even stunning natural scenery. However, it is easy to forget that trees require maintenance to remain healthy and safe to be around.

That's why it is essential to regularly trim trees to avoid weak branches or dead wood. At https://www.treeservicessacramento.org/folsom/, you can see how local professionals are keeping up with regular trimming and this way prevent any potential accidents or damage to property and enhance the tree's natural beauty. Trees are like any living thing, and they require upkeep, especially when they grow too close to houses or other structures.

Fertilize your lawn regularly to keep it green and healthy 

Maintaining a lush, green lawn year-round can be a challenging task, but with regular fertilization, it's possible to achieve a healthy and vibrant yard. Fertilizing your lawn helps to enrich and fortify the soil, ensuring that it has all the necessary nutrients to support healthy growth.

Not only does a well-nourished lawn look aesthetically pleasing, but it can also help to prevent disease and weed growth. With so many benefits to regular fertilization, it's no wonder why it's become a staple for any lawn care regimen.

Promote healthy root growth 

One of the most commonly overlooked aspects of plant care is how frequently you need to water them. While it may seem logical to water your plants daily, overwatering can harm your plant's root system and impede its growth.

Instead, experts suggest that plants should be watered deeply but infrequently to promote healthy root growth. By allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions, you will encourage the plant to develop a robust root system that can better absorb nutrients and withstand various environmental stresses.

So, next time you reach for your watering can remember to give your plants a deep, thorough drink and allow the soil to dry out before watering again.

Remove weeds from your garden

A lush and healthy garden can be a source of great pride and joy, but pesky weeds can quickly ruin your mood. One way to remove these unwanted intruders is by pulling them by hand. It may be a bit time-consuming, but it can be a peaceful and meditative activity that allows you to connect with nature.

Another option is an organic herbicide, which is a natural alternative to harsh chemicals that can harm the environment. It will attack and kill the weeds without sacrificing the health of your garden.

Mulch around trees and in garden beds

By spreading mulch around your trees and garden beds, you can retain moisture in the soil and suppress weeds. Mulch is a protective covering made of organic materials like leaves, bark, and wood chips. It not only helps retain moisture and suppress weeds but also improves soil health by providing nutrients and preventing soil erosion.

Plus, it gives your garden a polished look that is sure to impress any visitors.

By creating a plan and schedule for these tasks, you can stay ahead of any potential problems that could arise. Additionally, fertilizing regularly will keep your lawn looking its best; water deeply but infrequently to promote healthy root growth; trim trees to avoid weak branches or dead wood; get rid of weeds from your garden; and use mulch in gardens beds to help retain moisture and reduce weeds.

Following these tips will ensure your home looks pleasing for everyone who passes by and adds value to your house!

The Main Reasons Why You’ll Need an HVAC Repair Person

If you notice there’s something happening with your HVAC system, you might have a problem with your air conditioner, your furnace, your ductwork, or your thermostat. In this article, we’ll talk about ductwork problems.

If you’re having temperature issues, you might blame your ductwork, and rightly so. Only an HVAC company like the Otter Guys can tell you for sure, though. It’s best that you call and schedule service as quickly as possible.

Let’s talk about some reasons why your ductwork might not work in the way that you want and what an HVAC company can do about it.

Blockages from Kids

Let’s say that you move into a new house. You get an inspection, and everything seems fine. Sometimes, though, you won’t turn on the furnace or air conditioner during the inspection, particularly if you buy an already vacant house.

Once you move in, you’ll turn on the HVAC system and see how it works. You might try both the furnace and the central air unit, assuming you have one. Not every house has central air. That depends on where you live and the climate there.

Maybe once you turn on the furnace, you notice you don’t have a nice, uniform temperature throughout the house. You may notice it’s toasty warm on the first floor, but it’s still quite chilly up on the second.

If that happens, you’ll want to contact an HVAC company so they can come check out your ductwork. They’ll look at your furnace as well, but, assuming it’s working okay, they’ll likely investigate the ductwork next.

They might find some blockages between the first floor and the second. If they do, they must look inside the ductwork to find any obstructions. 

If they find any, they might realize the kids that lived there before you threw or stuffed some items into the vents. If you had some mischievous kids living there before you, and they pried open a loose vent, they might throw objects down there and create blockages through which the warm or cool air can’t pass.

What Might Block the Ductwork?

If you talk to HVAC repair people, they might have some stories about what they have found in ductwork. In houses where kids lived, they might find clothing, toys, books, and just about anything else. 

They can get to work fishing out those items. Once they’re out of the ductwork, you can try running the furnace again. If you get warm air throughout the house now, you’ll know you’ve found and alleviated the problem.

Blockages from Animals

You might also contact HVAC repair people and have them take a look at ductwork when you don’t have uniform air temperatures, and they’ll find animal-related obstructions. If you live by some woods, that becomes more likely.

If you live near woods, that means you might have rats, squirrels, raccoons, opossums, and other wildlife setting up shop in your house. As the weather gets colder and you turn on the heat, your home becomes very attractive as a place to hole up for the winter.

An animal might nest in the ductwork. They will enjoy the warm temperatures, and they might build a nest and try raising their young in there too.

You might contact both an HVAC person and an exterminator if that happens. If your HVAC repair person finds a nest of possums, they won’t want to tackle those. You need a pest control expert for that.

 

Integrity Problems

If you notice you don’t have the temperature uniformity throughout the house that you want, you may also find that you don’t have a blockage. Instead, your HVAC repair person might discover that you don’t have structural integrity throughout the ductwork.

It’s not likely, but sometimes, the ductwork bends out of position, or a section breaks off entirely. You might notice that on your own, but you may need an HVAC person who can go over that ductwork inch by inch to determine the spot or spots where that happened.

Once they’ve found the damage, they can make repairs. After they cobble the ductwork back together and make sure it’s secure, you should get warm or cool temperatures throughout the house again. 

If you don’t have secure, unblocked ductwork, you can’t fully enjoy your house and either your furnace or central air unit. That’s why you should contact an HVAC company without delay if you feel warm in one section but cold in another.

Guest Contributor: Susan Melony

Tips for Spring Cleaning

Spring is the perfect time to clean and refresh your home after a long winter. It's a great opportunity to get rid of clutter, deep clean those hard-to-reach places, and give your home a fresh start. Here are some tips for spring cleaning your home:

1. Make a plan: Start by making a plan of what you want to clean and where you want to start. Make a checklist of all the areas of your home that need cleaning, and prioritize them based on how dirty or cluttered they are.

2. Declutter: One of the most important steps in spring cleaning is decluttering. Go through each room and get rid of anything that you no longer need or use. This can include clothes, toys, books, and household items. Donate or sell anything that is in good condition, and throw away anything that is no longer useful.

3. Deep clean: Once you have decluttered, it's time to deep clean your home. This includes dusting, vacuuming, and washing all surfaces, including walls, floors, and windows. Pay special attention to areas that are often overlooked, such as behind furniture and under appliances.

4. Organize: After you have cleaned, it's time to organize. Make sure everything has a place, and put things away in their designated spot. Consider investing in storage solutions, such as shelves, bins, and baskets, to help keep things organized.

5. Tackle the outside: Spring cleaning isn't just about the inside of your home. Take some time to clean up your yard and outdoor spaces. This can include raking leaves, trimming bushes, and cleaning patio furniture.

6. Maintain: Finally, make a plan to maintain your clean home. Create a cleaning schedule that includes regular tasks such as dusting, vacuuming, and wiping down surfaces. This will help you keep your home clean and organized all year round.

In conclusion, spring cleaning your home is an important task that can help you refresh and renew your living space. By decluttering, deep cleaning, and organizing, you can create a more inviting and functional home that you can enjoy all year round.

Blue Collar Eats - Sem Sem Mediterrean

Sem Sem Mediterranean is a delightful restaurant in Tinley Park, IL that offers authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. From the moment you step inside you are greeted by the welcoming aroma of spices.

The menu at Sem Sem is a mix of traditional Middle Eastern dishes, from appetizers like hummus and baba ghanoush to main courses like shawarma and kebab.

All dishes are made with fresh ingredients. "Everything is made fresh, everything from the hummus, to the falafel, to the salad, the sauces. The bread is made daily which we get from my other restaurant that has a bakery in it," says Omar.

Omar is the owner of Sem Sem, and takes pride in operating the establishment.

"I'm proud of this, i have so much pride in making this food, everybody loves it. My family, my friends, our customers, it makes me feel so happy." Omar originally graduated from medical school, and was in the process of acing his medical board tests when he decided to pursue his career in the food industry instead, because it was his passion.

One of the standout dishes at Sem Sem is the falafel, which is made with chickpeas and a blend of herbs and spices, then fried to crispy perfection. Another crowd favorite is the lamb shank, which is slow-cooked with spices and served with rice pilaf. All of the recipes served at Sem Sem are a family recipe tradition, Omar just puts his "touch" on it, as he calls it.

"We get the chicken and let it sit and marinate for at least 24 hours. There is about 11 different spices (for the chicken), and for the steak there is 7." Sem Sem also offers vegan and vegetarian options as well.

Kevin's favorite meal from Sem Sem is always the steak wrap. "This is my personal favorite, the steak wrap with tahini sauce. It's very good. You can tell every time I come here the food is consistent, that's the best part."

Don’t forget to check out the full episode of Blue Collar Eats on Facebook or Youtube to hear customer’s reviews and see the rest of what Kevin and Omar decided to devour into for the video.

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Youtube:
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