Benefits of Mulch

benefits of mulch

Most people don’t think about mulch too much, but mulch can do wonders for your garden and front yard. There’s a variety of mulch and the different types of mulch should be used for specific garden settings. Mulch is especially crucial if you have a vegetable garden or are planning to create one. Below are several benefits of mulch, highlighting the positives of the not-so-talked-about garden asset.

  1. Mulch is a great defender. It helps plants maintain their moisture, but only if there’s the right amount of mulch added because the plants will rot if there’s too much mulch.

  2. Mulch can also protect plants and vegetables from the harmful effects of the sun because it keeps the water in the soil and slows the evaporation process.

  3. Mulch can add nutrients back into the soil, helping the growth of vegetables.

  4. Mulch will act as a barrier between the plants and the ground, reducing the risk of health dangers.

Different types of Mulch:

  • Composted mulch is great for gardens because it adds nutrients to the soil

  • Straw mulch is great because it’s light weight. This light weight keeps plants from rotting at the base.

As you are applying mulch in your garden, be sure to cover the soil so you’re unable to see any of it below. A coating of about 2-4 inches is good enough. If you’re using light mulch, use a thicker layer, and the opposite goes for heavier mulch. Mulch helps gardens in general by keeping the plants and vegetables healthy and will help your garden grow strong.

Carpet Types

Cleaning Your Carpet

There are plenty of carpets to choose from, so it can be difficult to make a decision on what type of carpet is best for your home. From nylon, to olefin, polyester and wool, there are plenty of choices that can fit the different types of homes/ apartments/ condos out there.

Out of all the types of carpet there are, certain types, based on the fiber and construction, are easier to clean and maintain than other carpets. So, depending on how much time you have, what style you’re looking for and what feel you want under your feet, you should choose a carpet that covers your needs/wants.

Types of carpet:

Nylon: This is the most popular type of carpet fiber to get, and rightfully so. It’s a bit more expensive than the other types of fibers, but it is highly resistant to mildew and does well in high traffic areas. Nylon is more resistant to the wear and tear of everyday life and does well with the weight and movement of furniture. It’s a durable fiber that works for the everyday family.

Polyester: This fiber is stain-resistant to a variety of water-soluble stains, and can be easily cleaned. The down side is that it doesn’t do as well as the other carpets with the wear and tear. For those thinking “green,” this carpet may be the perfect choice since some polyester carpet is made from recycled soda bottles.

Olefin (polypropylene): This type of carpet is good at resisting stains, moisture, color fading and abrading. It is also attracted to oily soils. This type of fiber may be a perfect option for a playroom or basement because of its resistance to moisture.

Wool: This type of fiber gives off the feel of luxury, and so does its price. The price tag matches the performances, as this is a good all-around carpet fiber. Wool is resilient to high-traffic, wear-and-tear, while being soft for your feet. The only downsides are that the wool doesn’t do well with stains and turns a yellow color when left in direct sunlight for long periods of time.

Home Cleaning Help

Cleaning. Most believe that it’s a boring, tedious job, but it just has to be done. Yes, some people say that cleaning actually relieves stress and helps you relax, but others say cleaning just gives them a headache. Not all of us have the budget to get maid service or even a bi-weekly professional cleaning team to come in and do the job while we relax or tend to the long list of other things we need to get done. So, what’s the solution to get cleaning done quicker? Have your children help you clean! (Obviously, this doesn’t apply to those without children).

There are many ways your children can help you clean, and it will get them in the habit of knowing that cleaning is essential to life. Living in a dirty house isn’t the way to live. A clean home is a happy home. You’ve heard it many times before because it’s true! The only problem: getting your children to help you clean and do so in an efficient manner.

First of all, you have to have a designated day to do weekly cleaning for at least a couple of hours (Sunday usually works best). Once your children can get into this routine of cleaning, it will become just part of the week, like school and play time. Cleaning will build good characteristics in your children and also provide for more bonding time.

Here are some suggestions on how to encourage your children to help you do the chores around the house:

  • Act happy while cleaning, don’t make it seem like a chore.

  • Ask for their help for short periods of time, and do not make them do chores for more than half an hour.

  • Give them a payoff for doing the chores, like small treats, extra TV time, allowance, etc.

  • Turn it into a game