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5 House-Cleaning Hacks That Will Save You Time (and Your Sanity)

I hate spending more time than I have to cleaning up my house. Because of this, I’ve developed a few cleaning hacks over the years to make my household chores pain-free. Whether you’re preparing for spring cleaning or you simply want to save some time, these tips will help you tackle your house-cleaning tasks with ease.


Consolidate Your Cleaning Products

There seems to be a cleaning product for just about every situation these days, but you can go a long way with just a few of them in your arsenal. If I had to pick just one product, it’d be Dr. Bronner’s 18-in-1 Hemp Rose Pure-Castile Soap. When they say 18-in-1, they’re not lying — in fact, they’re being modest, because this stuff has way more than 18 uses. I use it on nearly every surface in my home, and I’ve even used it to take care of box-elder bugs in spring and fall.

Dr. Bronner’s 18-in-1 Hemp Rose Pure-Castille Soap
from Target

Spray and Soak

A good cleaning routine is all about time management. I like to hit all the bathrooms first with a spray-down. Then, I’ll head to the kitchen and get dishes or pans soaking that have stuck-on food and grease. While the cleaning products are working their magic, I’ll tackle other tasks like vacuuming and starting a load of laundry. By the time I’m finished with those, the rooms I first visited will be ready for a quick wipe-down and some final touches. And that’s bathroom-cleaning hack 101.

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Establish a “Toss It” Bin

I like to put a laundry basket on the main floor and use it as a central collection site for decluttering. Junk mail, random pieces of fuzz or debris, papers and anything else that needs to go will be tossed in the basket as I make my way around the house. Since I can literally toss things in as I walk by without having to think (or open the trash can), it shaves some serious minutes off my cleaning time. When I’m finished cleaning the rest of the house, I usually have a half-full garbage bag to work with. That’s where I dump the contents of the basket and call it a day.

Create a Cleaning Caddy

If you must have multiple products (I don’t judge), a cleaning caddy is where it’s at. Think of it as a first aid kit for your cleaning supplies. I store mine under the kitchen sink so it’s readily available. It usually has a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, a few sponges, steel wool, window cleaner, toilet bowl cleaner, and more. Having everything in one place saves you from having to spend time tracking down all of your essentials. And it’s just easy to carry from room to room.

United Solutions Organize Your Home Super Caddy
from Jet.com

Stock Up on Citrus

I use the microwave quite a bit in my house, and the quickest way to clean it is with a lemon. Slice it in half and place it in a microwave-safe bowl full of water. Set the microwave to three minutes on high and wait. Be very careful when you open it, as there will be some steam and the water will be hot. The oils from the lemon and the steam will loosen built-up crud inside your microwave and make your cleaning job a breeze.

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6 Buys to Make Your Home Happier

Look around you. The space you live in is a reflection of your mental state, whether you believe it or not. If Nancy Drew walked into your bedroom, into your bathroom, into your kitchen, notebook in hand, what would she learn about the type of person you are? Winter forces us into hibernation, so it’s an excellent time of year to spruce up your dwelling with items that will cause your heart to swell with joy. Below are six home decor picks that will take your place (and your mood) from eh to amazing.


Kate Spade Strawberry Pencil Case

In medieval times, strawberries were a symbol of innocence, purity and perfection. Who doesn’t want to bring more of those vibes into their lives? If you don’t use pencils — because, who does anymore, honestly? — you could purpose this pouch for cosmetics, jewelry or a decorative clutch.

Kate Spade Strawberry Pencil Case
from kate spade new york

Ralph Lauren Waffle-Knit Bathrobe

Imagine this cozy gem hanging from the back of your bathroom door. Nothing conjures up feelings of indulgent luxury — hotel rooms, spas — better than a bathrobe. Just seeing it in your bathroom will remind you of blissful blessings.

Ralph Lauren Waffle-Knit Bathrobe
from Ralph Lauren



Lauren Conrad Sheet Set

For the amount of time we spend in bed, it’s surprising that we don’t invest in making the experience extraordinary. Experiment with your own sheet sets. Will you have better dreams when sleeping on different colors and thread counts?

Lauren Conrad Sheet Set​
from Kohl’s
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Uttermost Abra Vanity Mirror

Mirror, mirror, on the wall. We’re often warned against falling in love with our own reflection, although mirrors can be invaluable tools for practicing self-love and acceptance. If we aren’t loving the reflection, how can we expect others to love it too? This beautiful creation will inspire a fairy-tale self-image.

Uttermost Abra Vanity Mirror
from Macy’s



Dyson Pure Hot + Cool Link Air Purifier

You’re only as good as the air you breathe. This stylish little friend purifies its surroundings and makes your space look funky and futuristic. It also removes allergens to help you breathe that much easier.

Dyson Pure Hot + Cool Link Air Purifier
from Bed Bath & Beyond

Food52 Vintage-Inspired Brass Candlesticks

Candlesticks give any space a certain old-fashioned romance. Spooky yet elevating, why reserve these gems for just special occasions and Hallmark holidays? Take Monday Thai takeout to the next level, or give your bedroom some sultry boudoir appeal.

Food52 Vintage-Inspired Brass Candlesticks
from Bloomingdale’s

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5 Tips to Make Tax Time Pain-Free

Taxes: one of the few certainties in life. Since you have to do them, you might as well be prepared so you can breeze through them, right? Use this quick tax checklist to ensure tax preparation and filing is a breeze.


Gather Up Those Documents

When W-2s, 1099s and everything else begin flooding my mailbox, I start to create a mountain of paper I lovingly call the “tax pile.” On the digital side, I start filing everything into a folder so I’m prepared when I fire up TurboTax. If you want to be an adult and actually organize your own tax pile, I suggest an accordion folder like this one. It’s a great way to sort everything by filing year.

Expandable Folder Organizer
from Zoro
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Check Your List, and Check It Twice

Do you have everything you need? I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been ready to submit my taxes, only to get a last-minute bank statement out of the blue. Make a list of everything you filed last year, and note any changes. Did you work as an independent contractor, like I did? You’ll probably need a 1099. Make sure you have records of all forms of income and investments, proof of student loan interest or donations to charity, etc. You’ll also want to be ready if you had any major life changes, such as adding a dependent, getting a new job or buying a home.

Know Your Numbers

You’re always going to need your Social Security number and the Social Security numbers of your partner and any dependents, but there are some other identifiers that I always forget, like my tax Identity Protection Pin, or IP PIN. If you don’t know your PIN or need to get one, you can do so through irs.gov. If you really run into a bind, you can also use last year’s adjusted gross income, or AGI, to validate your return.

Choose Your Tax-Time Weapon

I personally use TurboTax to file. I’ve flirted with other tax software, but I’ve always come back to TurboTax because it’s fast, easy and convenient. The best part is the import feature, which works in a few ways. First, it’ll import W-2s automatically if you have the employer’s Employer Identification Number, or EIN. Second, it pulls all your information from the previous year, which saves a tremendous amount of time. Even if I know I’m going to owe money on my return, I’ll still use TurboTax to get the job done. It’s a time-saver and headache preventer all in one.

TurboTax Desktop Software
from TurboTax

Prepare to Treat Yo Self

In the immortal words of Tom Haverford and Donna Meagle, “Treat Yo Self!” Whether you’re getting some much-needed cash back or parting ways with more of your funds, you deserve a little something for putting in the hours during tax time. Might I suggest a massage or another form of relaxation? If you’re not into the spa, there’s always retail therapy. I’ve been eyeing a pair of New Balance Fresh Foams for a while now.

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Meet the 5 Perfect Carry-On Bags

For me, the perfect carry-on bag has to be compact, versatile and stylish. It needs to be roomy enough to hold all of my essentials but small enough to actually fit in the overhead compartment, especially since space comes at a premium on flights these days. Below, you’ll find five perfect bags for any type of traveler. Whether you like to pack sparingly or need something that’ll hold a hefty portion of your wardrobe, there’s an option for you. And, when you shop for any of them through Ebates, you’ll be earning Cash Back.

The Take-Anywhere Tote

If you like to travel light, the Tumi Voyageur M-Tote is the carry-on bag for you. Roomy and stylish, this tote has a 13″ laptop pocket, one zip pocket and three open pockets for storing chargers, headphones and other accessories. If you learn how to roll your clothes, you can fit at least two outfits in this carry-on, which makes it ideal for quick business trips or a compact way to carry your essentials.

Tumi Voyageur M-Tote
from Tumi Luggage



The Do-It-All Duffel

The bag I reach for the most, for any sort of travel plans, is my Chrome Industries Surveyor duffel bag. I have the predecessor to this model, and it’s a tank. I’ve taken it on dozens of flights, weekend trips and camping adventures. I even used it as a cooler for oysters and beer once when I lived in the Bay Area. Chrome has made some nice upgrades with the addition of a strap and interior organization. There’s even an added shoe compartment. It’s crafted from ballistic nylon, which is incredibly tough, so it can handle being squished into an overhead bin with ease. After years of abuse, my bag still looks brand-new.

Chrome Industries Surveyor Duffel Bag
from eBags
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The Weekend Workhorse

A weekender bag is a must-have in your carry-on luggage arsenal. This one from Vera Bradley has a classic profile and plenty of room for all of your staples. Vera Bradley says it can hold anywhere from four to six outfits. It can also double as your go-to bag when you’re not flying, which makes it a fantastic investment. I particularly like the navy colorway, but there are four additional colors to choose from if navy’s not your thing.

Iconic Weekender Travel Bag
from Vera Bradley



The Compact Compartment

How many times have you boarded a plane only to find that the overhead storage is completely full? It happens to me all the time, which is why I often reach for something like this under-seat bag. Sure, it’s not as roomy as other carry-on luggage, but it’ll get the job done if you pack smart like I mentioned earlier. If you find that the overhead compartments are full, simply slip this bag under your seat, sit back, relax and enjoy your flight.

Eco-Glide Wheeled Underseater Carry On
from eBags

The Certified Classic

There’s something to be said for a classic, and this spinner suitcase from Samsonite is a modern take on a tried and true design. It’s expandable, so you’ll be able to fit much more in this bag than you would the other picks above, but it still complies with carry-on luggage rules, so you’ll be all clear when you board. Simple, sleek and stylish. What more could you ask for?

Hyperspace XLT 30-inch Expandable Spinner Suitcase
from Overstock.com

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10 Products to Help You Get Better Sleep 

Remember sleep? Yeah, me neither. With two little ones, I’m happy if I can catch some sporadic shut-eye, let alone six or seven consecutive hours. Getting more than 40 winks feels like a distant memory for this exhausted mama, and I literally dream about, well, dreaming. This year, I’m taking sleep off the back burner and prioritizing rest, relaxation and quality Z’s — and you can, too, with a little help from a few innovative insomnia products. Whether you’re sleep-deprived because of crazy kids, a demanding job or anything (and everything!) in between, there’s hope for you yet. Pour yourself some decaffeinated tea, climb under a cozy blanket and browse these Sandman-approved picks.


Sleep Mask

Block out light without putting pressure on your delicate eyes with this cushy and conforming contoured sleep mask. Nighty night.

Premium Eye Shade Sleep Eye Mask and Ear Plugs
from Jet.com

Weighted Blanket

Studies haves shown that weighted blankets can help you get better sleep. This veritable swaddle for grown-ups provides gentle pressure to promote peaceful slumber. Ahhh.

Sommerfly Sleep Tight Weighted Blanket
from Bed Bath & Beyond



Air Purifier

Reduce common allergens in your bedroom and you might just find yourself sleeping silently through the night. (Imagine that!) And, yes, it has a quiet setting for nighttime use.

Dyson Pure Cool Link Air Purifier
from Buybuy BABY

Knee Pillow

Side sleepers, rejoice. This nifty pillow aligns your thighs and hips to help relieve pressure and keep you comfortable all night.

Dreamsweet Memory Foam Leg Pillow for Side Sleepers
from Walmart



Cooling Pillow

If you are perpetually flipping your pillow, you need this sleep product! A ConstantCool Cover moves heat away from your body so you stay content and your face feels refreshed.

Serta Forever Cool Pillow
from Sam’s Club
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Essential Oil Diffuser and Humidifier

This two-in-one product will set the Zen tone for a calm and quiet night. Diffuse essential oils that promote sleep while benefitting from the built-in cool mist humidifier. Plus, the cool colors have an almost hypnotic effect.

Essential Oil Diffuser and Humidifier
from Overstock.com



Wicking Bed Sheet Set

Hot-headed (and hot-bodied) sweaters will keep cool and dry despite nighttime perspiration in these super luxurious moisture-wicking sheets.

Wicked Sheets Moisture-Wicking Bed Sheet Set
from Jet.com

Sound Machine

White noise is your friend, whether you are trying to drown out a rowdy neighbor or create a relaxing ambiance at home. Enjoy the soothing sounds of rain, ocean waves and thunder — it’s like music to your tired ears.

HoMedics SoundSpa Sound Machine
from Bed Bath & Beyond



Sleep Tea

Sip your way to sleep with this botanical blend of calming herbs. You’ll feel the stress of the day melt away with every warm swallow.

WelleCo Sleep Tea
from Anthropologie

Sleep Oil

Spritz this deep-sleep night oil on your body or sheets, and you’ll soon feel your mind calm and your body still. Made with chamomile, lavender grape oil and vetivert, it helps with hypertension and insomnia.

this works Deep Sleep Night Oil
from Skinstore

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6 Foolproof Home-Improvement Tools Anyone Can Use

Home improvement can be a headache if you don’t have the right tools. And home-improvement stores can be intimidating if you’re not sure what you need or aren’t comfortable using tools in general. To help, I’ve put together a list of my all-time favorites. These are the best tools to own, whether you’re just starting out or you’re more experienced with home renovation. Plus, if you add them to your arsenal, you’ll be earning Cash Back at Ebates while shopping for all the best products.


Dewalt 20-Volt Compact Impact Driver

A power drill is one of the pillars of a basic tool kit. Most people have used one or own a drill of their own; fewer people have used an impact driver. It’s a shame, because my impact driver has changed the way I approach home improvement. Its primary job is driving screws with incredible force, but I’ve used it for tons of other applications. The best part is that it’s just as easy to handle as a power drill, so there’s no learning curve. I love my Dewalt impact driver, and pros tend to reach for Dewalt tools as well. If you have a big home-improvement job to tackle or you just want something with a little more power than your current cordless drill, reach for an impact driver.

Dewalt 20-Volt Compact Impact Driver
from Northern Tool

Swanson Speed Square

The speed square is a home-improvement tool many people overlook. It’s not flashy, but it’ll change the way you work. Aside from helping you draw a straight line, the speed square doubles as a protractor. It’ll also work as a saw guide and can help you mark the perfect angle. Swanson makes the original speed square, which usually comes with a book to help you get the most from your new tool.

Swanson Speed Square
from Overstock.com



Stanley Chalk Line Reel

A chalk line is a precision tool pros have used for years that’s easy for a home-improvement newbie to adopt. Basically, you secure (or have someone hold) one end of the line to point A and hold the other end of the line down tightly at point B. Then you pick up the string somewhere in the middle and let it snap back onto whatever surface you’re working on. The result? A perfectly straight line marked with chalk dust. I’ve used it to keep screws straight while installing flooring, hanging pictures and much more. This one from Stanley is a good pick. It should be the last one you ever buy if you take care of it.

Stanley Chalk Line Reel
from Jet.com
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Allway 6-in-1 Painter’s Tool

The one tool I find myself reaching for the most during weekend home-improvement jobs is my Allway 6-in-1 Painter’s Tool. It was designed to help with paint-related jobs, but I’ve found dozens of ways to use it: pulling nails, scraping crud off walls, patching drywall, spreading putty, etc. If you are painting, here’s a pro tip: That concave edge is meant for scraping excess paint out of paint rollers when you clean them, so they’re not stiff and brittle the next day when you’re trying to paint a third or fourth coat.

Allway 6-in-1 Painter’s Tool
from Jet.com



Zircon Metal and Wood Stud Finder

Hanging pictures? Anchoring furniture to the wall? You need a stud finder. Simply drag it along your wall and it’ll tell you exactly where to drive a screw or hammer a nail. Some, like this one from Zircon, can even alert you if there are wires and tell the difference between metal and wood. I own this model, and it has saved me plenty of headaches in the past couple years.

Zircon Metal and Wood Stud Finder
from Lowe’s

Werner Work Platform

When we renovated our home last year, I spent hours on this portable work platform from Werner. It’s good for just about anything, but I used it most for painting, working on walls and doing electrical work. It’s just the right height and is easy to tote around and set up in small spaces where a ladder wouldn’t make sense. We’ve settled in now, but I still use it about every other weekend for odd jobs.

Werner Work Platform
from Walmart

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Beautiful Bridesmaid Dresses on a Budget

Being part of a wedding party is an exciting honor, but it’s also an expensive one. With shower gifts, bachelorette festivities and everything in between, accepting a role as a bridesmaid is also accepting a big hit to your wallet. One thing that doesn’t have to be pricey: the bridesmaid dresses. There are so many options that are simple, stylish and, yes, affordable. Whether you’re the bride picking out matching frocks for your besties or a maid of honor gently advocating for more affordable bridesmaid dresses, check out these fabulous and frugal finds.


Scarlett Sleeveless Empire-Waist Dress

Lace cap sleeves, a sweetheart neckline and an empire waist make this dreamy little dress a classic and super-flattering choice. And at $90, bridesmaids can wear it once and then ditch or donate without guilt.

Scarlett Sleeveless Empire-Waist Dress

from JCPenney

Melrose Sleeveless Embellished Fit-and-Flare Dress

Since this dress is available in multiple soft hues, bridesmaids can mix or match down the aisle for just $65 a person. The crisscross embellished top slims, while the mid-length flare skirt flows beautifully on all body types.

Melrose Sleeveless Embellished Fit-and-Flare Dress
from JCPenney



Tricks of the Trade Maxi Dress

Look like a Grecian goddess walking down the aisle in this versatile and stunning number. At only $80, it’s like getting four dresses for the price of one, since it can be wrapped and worn multiple ways (as a one-shoulder, cross-front, strapless or halter style). The jersey knit hugs and flatters curves, and, better yet, each bridesmaid can choose which configuration suits her body best.

Tricks of the Trade Maxi Dress

from Lulu’s

Falling for You Maxi Dress

A stunning rusty-rose color and sheer straps that overlay a strapless sweetheart bodice make this cascading gown a dress to remember — at a bargain price of $91.

Falling for You Maxi Dress

from Lulu’s



Flare Dress With Pockets

Navy is a classic choice for bridesmaid dresses, and this retro-inspired number is a reserved but playful (can you say “pockets”?) choice. The bateau neckline and gathered high waist exude ceremony-worthy sophistication, while the flare bottom screams party time! Best of all, you can justify the sensible $119 price tag, since this re-wearable frock will never go out of style.

Flare Dress With Pockets

from ModCloth
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Faux-Wrap Midi Dress

Easily dressed up for the big day or toned down for work, this bright midi dress is equal parts fun and practical — and for $58, it’s a steal you can wear again and again. Plus, the faux-wrap style cinches waistlines for a more flattering fit.

Faux-Wrap Midi Dress

from Kohl’s



Sequin Lace Gown

This elegant gown features an intricately embroidered lace bodice with sequin accents and a sheer illusion neckline and back. The vibrantly deep eggplant purple is not for the wallflower bridesmaid, but at just over $100 it’s a lot of dress for not a lot of money.

Sequin Lace Gown

from Bluefly

Sweetheart Lace Skater Dress

Discount bridesmaid dresses don’t have to be frumpy or unflattering. Available in blush, navy and burgundy hues, this adorable crochet skater dress is simultaneously sweet and sexy, flirty and fun — all for less than $50.

Sweetheart Lace Skater Dress

from Charlotte Russe