The Sneezing Bug… Dust

Do you ever feel like the dust just keeps piling up and you don’t know how to get rid of it? We like to refer to it as the “dust bug”! When it comes to dust, we offer a few preventative methods you can use before it starts collecting, as well as some different techniques to clear the dust. Below are some tips that you can use in your home that will make a difference.

Ditch your shoes

Shoes collect dust and microscopic germs. When entering your home, you should immediately take off your shoes. You can control the amount of dust and germs you track throughout your apartment by simply removing them. We suggest you use a dedicated area to keep your shoes. For example, maybe invest in a shoe rack or mat that can be used for a storage spot for your shoes. This may seem like a tedious task to do, but in the long run, it’s a great habit to get used to and a way to prevent the “dust bug”.

Use doormats with a bristle

Doormats are a great way to clean the soles of your shoes and remove dust before entering your home. This will also allow your guest to have access to a mat that will clean their shoes before entering as well. Using doormats with a bristle top work best at getting the unwanted junk off your shoes.

Mop your floors

Mopping is the golden rule when it comes to cleaning your hardwood and tile floors. Mopping floors will pick up the most dust and remove it for good. Sweeping is another great way to clean the floors, but it doesn’t get the job done completely. Sweeping will blow the dust onto other areas and keep you sneezing. Mopping at least once a week is a great start, but the more you keep your floors clean, the less dust you’ll see throughout your home.

Vacuum your rugs

Rugs collect a lot of dirt, germs, and dust that are invisible to the eye most of the time. Be sure to vacuum multiple times a week. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends using a HEPA-filtered vacuum. A HEPA-filtered vacuum, which stands for high-efficiency particulate air filter, can remove up to 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, and any other airborne particles.

Dust your window treatments

Window treatments collect dust that will build up quickly if not dusted regularly. The best way to clean your window treatments is by using a rag and cleaning solutions. However, if you have curtains or drapes, use the old but true way of bringing them outside and shaking them off. This is a great way to keep the dust outside.

Enhance your air with a purifier

Using an air purifier is a great way to clean the air and reduce the dust buildup in your home. This will eliminate allergies and make your home a healthier environment. Using a HEPA filter will enhance your air purifier and bring it to the next level.

Vacuum your couch cushions

Even though you may overlook this, your couch may be collecting dust based on the type of fabric you have. Vacuuming your couch is an essential task you must perform to have a dust-free home. If you have removable couch cushions, wash them at least once a month and frequently vacuum them.

Reduce clutter and remove junk

Stagnant, unwanted junk and clutter throughout your home will build up dust and bacteria. Purging through your belongings every month or so will reduce the dust buildup on your items. This will also free up space in your home and allow you to have a more controlled environment.

7 Simple Storage Ideas for Apartments

Living in a smaller space such as an apartment may pose a challenge when it comes to storing all of your belongings. As you design and decorate your space, there are lots of different things you can do to maximize your storage space. When you take the chance to open your mind and get creative, you’ll realize that you actually have more storage options than you think. Here are 7 easy ideas for adding extra storage space in your apartment.

Be Intentional with Furniture

Choosing furniture that can function as storage space can make your apartment stylish and practical. Try using a storage ottoman as a coffee table for a convenient place to keep blankets in your living room. Another great idea is to use a dresser as a TV stand for more drawers and shelves. Being intentional with your furniture is a great way to make the most out of your floor space.

Optimize Storage Under the Bed

Don’t skip out on utilizing the space under your bed for storage. It is such a simple option that often has a ton of room, and it also allows you to store your belongings out of sight. You can even find a bed frame with a built-in drawer for maximum storage space or use storage bins that can easily slide under your bed to stay organized.

Purchase a Shoe Rack

If there’s anything that can take up a lot of space in your closet, it’s shoes. Even though they are fairly small in size, shoes can be awkward to organize and can get cluttered very easily. You can find all different kinds of shoe racks online, so you’re sure to find one that works for your apartment. You could add shelf style racks in your entryway to organize shoes near the door or try an over-the-door organizer to hide away your shoes in your closet.

Get Creative with Over-the-Door Organizers

Over-the-door organizers can be used for more than just shoes. They are extremely versatile and can be used to store all kinds of things. Organize your favorite snacks behind your pantry door, or even store cleaning supplies on the door of your utility closet. With plenty of options, over-the-door organizers are an easy and affordable idea to maximize storage in your apartment.

Add Style with Storage Carts

Rolling carts are a cute and easy way to add a little more storage to your space. You can choose from many different styles and designs, and they can be placed just about anywhere. Place one in your bathroom to organize your makeup and toiletries or add one next to your desk to store books and office supplies.

Take Advantage of Closet Hacks

Trying some simple closet hacks to organize your closet can really make a difference in using your space wisely. One idea is to use vertical hangers in your closet to hang even more clothes. Hanging cubes are another good option to help you stay organized.

Maximize Vertical Space with Shelves

One area for storage that’s often overlooked in homes and apartments is the walls. Adding shelves can work wonders for storing and organizing small objects such as books and knick-knacks that could otherwise contribute to clutter.

When you know how to find creative ways to store your things, keeping your apartment organized and free of clutter can feel much easier. With these easy tricks, you can take your apartment to the next level and design a space that is both practical and stylish.

Renter-Friendly Ideas to Personalize Your Space

When you move into a new apartment, you have the opportunity to design a whole new space to your liking. Designing and decorating your apartment can be a lot of fun, but if you are renting your place, you may feel limited in what you can do to add your own personal touch. With all the new innovations in design over the years, there are many temporary options for renters to get creative with their space without risking any damage or permanent changes that could go against their building rules. Here are some of the top renter-friendly ideas to add some personality to every room.

Painting Your Walls

A great option to add interest to your space is painting. A lot of apartment buildings allow people to paint their walls, as long as they are painted back to their original color before moving out. You can paint one feature wall a fun color to add contrast, or paint cool shapes for an organic look. Painting is also a great way to incorporate color throughout your apartment!

Adding Texture with Rugs

Rugs are a great option for softening a space with hard floors by adding a cozier feel. When it comes to choosing an interesting rug, there’s a world of possibilities. With different colors, textures, patterns, and styles, adding a rug is the perfect opportunity to be creative and make your place feel more like home.

Lighting and Lamps

Lighting can make a big difference in the look and feel of a space. Adding soft lighting can help to create a warmer and more comforting feel, and string lights can add visual interest to a space. Giving your apartment a welcoming vibe through lighting can elevate your rental to the perfect entertaining space. You can also express your style by choosing unique lamp designs that add character to the room.

Choosing Unique Artwork

Art is a classic and stunning way to make your space unique. Cultivating a variety of art that speaks to your personality and tastes can really make a difference when designing your apartment. You can hang paintings or photographs, and even add sculptures or ceramics throughout your apartment. You can even feature your own art if it is a passion of yours. Art can also be a great talking piece for guests.

Decorating with Plants

Adding plants to your living space can really bring a special touch of life and energy, and there are lots of choices for easy houseplants. Artificial plants are also a good idea if you don’t want to worry about taking care of the plant, and silk flowers can look just as good as the real deal! Placing plants throughout your apartment can be a good way to tie your whole space together by adding a bit of greenery to each room.

With a bit of creativity, there are so many options and ideas for renters to personalize their space without making permanent changes. When you open your mind to put in a little extra work, you can create the apartment of your dreams no matter where you are. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new things!

Sectional Sofas vs. Separate Living Room Sets for Apartments: The Pros and Cons

Is a sectional right for your apartment? Or would a separated sofa and loveseat combo make more sense for your home? The answer depends on many factors, with your personal preference being the main one. Here are a few pros and cons of each to help you decide what’s best for you.

Sectional Furniture

Pros
  • They’re ideal for smaller spaces, as the arms of separate sofas and loveseats take up space that usually isn’t used.
  • They offer a more cohesive appearance in the room.
  • The living room may appear cozier, more comfortable, and more inviting.
  • A basic sectional provides the same number of spots as a sofa and loveseat combined.
  • Although they are made with a certain number of spots, they can typically fit more people than that, comfortably.
  • If you choose U-shaped sectionals, you will have eight seats: two on each of the three sides plus two connecting spots.
Cons
  • The middle/connection section can be uncomfortable, although it still allows for seating.
  • Unless it’s a sectional that can be separated, it can be difficult to move if you relocate.

Sofa and Loveseat

Pros
  • Sofas and loveseats have a more elegant, polished appearance.
  • While the arms may take up space, the arms can enhance the comfort level.
  • Sofas and loveseats are easier to move when you need to vacuum under and behind them.
  • If you’re one who likes to rearrange your furniture to give your living room a new look every now and then, separate pieces may make more sense.
  • You may have more design options, such as being able to place more end tables in your living room. The end tables may be more accessible as well.
  • Separate pieces can make a small room look larger.
Cons
  • They will take up more space in your living room.
  • If you’re looking for a casual design in your living room, separate pieces may look too formal.
As for pricing, we really can’t say which option would be more ideal – because a variety of factors may affect the cost of each. Some of the many factors that may affect the difference in cost between a sectional and sofa/loveseat combo include:
  • The material (leather, fabric)
  • Modern technology that’s incorporated (charging stations for phones, audio devices)
  • Reclining options
  • Any chaises or footrests that may be included
  • The size
  • The brand
Ultimately, the decision will depend on your preference, how you typically use your living room, and the amount of space you have. Whatever you choose, we hope your living room looks amazing and provides you with all the comforts and conveniences you’re looking for!