Id have Raised planter boxes put in around the outside of our yard so my mother in-law doesn't have to spend hours on the ground with a bad back to do the gardening!..

Forget about any designing in the room until you have the clutter under control. We can't even see the room to give design help! If you start thinking about design now you may be tempted to buy extra stuff - and you certainly don't need extra now. Get storage boxes/baskets and store similar things together and don't be scared to throw out anything you haven't used for 6 months! It's a fantastic feeling to get mess under control and well worth the effort!! When you have done that take another pic and tell us what you want to achieve design wise.

sadly a not so unusual renovating story and you have the patience of a saint ...fingers crossed i look forward to learning about a successful outcome and seeing pics of your beautiful new bathrooms

Introduction: Maintaining a clean and tidy home is essential for our well-being and comfort. While hiring professional cleaning services is an option, there are numerous effective do-it-yourself (DIY) cleaning hacks that homeowners can use to keep their homes sparkling without breaking the bank. In this blog post, we will explore a variety of DIY cleaning hacks that are easy to implement and can make a significant difference in your cleaning routine. From natural ingredients to clever techniques, these tips will help you achieve a clean and fresh home environment. All-Purpose Cleaning Solutions: Having an effective all-purpose cleaner is a game-changer when it comes to DIY cleaning. You can make your own by combining equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. This solution is versatile and can be used on various surfaces such as countertops, appliances, and glass. Alternatively, if you prefer a citrusy scent, mix water with lemon juice and a few drops of dish soap. It's a simple yet powerful cleaning solution that tackles grease and grime effectively. Baking Soda: A Multi-Purpose Cleaning Agent: Baking soda is a magical ingredient that can be used in numerous DIY cleaning hacks. It works as a gentle abrasive, deodorizer, and stain remover. Sprinkle baking soda on carpets before vacuuming to eliminate odors. Create a paste with baking soda and water to scrub away stubborn stains on sinks, bathtubs, and grout. Baking soda also works wonders in cleaning and deodorizing cutting boards, refrigerators, and trash cans. Refresh Your Mattress: Over time, mattresses can accumulate dust, sweat, and odors. To refresh your mattress, sprinkle baking soda over the surface and let it sit for a few hours. Then, vacuum it thoroughly to remove the baking soda along with any unwanted odors. This simple trick helps extend the lifespan of your mattress and creates a more hygienic sleeping environment. Lemon Power: Lemons are not only great for cooking but also for cleaning. Cut a lemon in half and use it to clean and deodorize cutting boards, faucets, and stainless steel surfaces. The natural acidity of lemons helps break down grease and stains while leaving a fresh citrus scent. Additionally, you can place a lemon peel in your garbage disposal to eliminate unpleasant odors. Microwave Deep-Cleaning: Cleaning the microwave can be a tedious task, especially when food splatters and stains cling to its interior. To make this chore easier, fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and add a few slices of lemon or a tablespoon of vinegar. Microwave the mixture on high for a couple of minutes, allowing the steam to loosen the grime. Then, carefully remove the bowl and wipe down the interior with a cloth or sponge. The steam helps soften the dirt, making it much easier to clean. DIY Air Fresheners: Creating your own air fresheners is a fun and cost-effective way to keep your home smelling delightful. Fill a spray bottle with water and add a few drops of your favorite essential oil, such as lavender or eucalyptus. Shake well and spritz the mixture in any room to freshen the air. You can also make natural potpourri by combining dried flowers, herbs, and spices in a bowl and placing it in a well-ventilated area. Vinegar for Hard Water Stains: Hard water stains can be a headache to remove, especially on faucets, showerheads, and glass surfaces. Vinegar comes to the rescue again! Soak a cloth or paper towel in white vinegar and wrap it around the affected area. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight, then remove the cloth and wipe away the stains. The acidic DIY Grout Cleaner: Dirty grout lines can make your tiles look dull and unappealing. Create a simple DIY grout cleaner by combining baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to form a paste. Apply the paste to the grout lines and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, scrub the grout with a toothbrush or a grout brush. Rinse with water and enjoy the renewed look of your tiled surfaces. Remove Carpet Stains with Club Soda: Spills and stains on carpets can be a nightmare, but club soda can come to your rescue. Blot the stain gently with a clean cloth to remove any excess liquid. Then, pour club soda over the stain and continue blotting until the stain disappears. Club soda's carbonation helps lift the stain, making it easier to remove. Remember to test this method on a small, inconspicuous area of your carpet first to ensure it doesn't cause any discoloration. Deodorize Smelly Shoes: Nobody likes smelly shoes, but luckily, there's a simple DIY hack to freshen them up. Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit overnight to absorb any unpleasant odors. The next day, shake out the baking soda and enjoy the refreshed scent. For an extra boost, you can add a few drops of essential oil to the baking soda before sprinkling it in the shoes. Conclusion: Maintaining a clean and fresh home environment doesn't always require expensiveprofessional cleaning products or professional services. With these effective DIY cleaning hacks, homeowners can tackle various cleaning tasks using common household items and natural ingredients. From all-purpose cleaners to lemon power, baking soda to vinegar, these simple and cost-effective solutions can make a significant difference in the cleanliness and hygiene of your home. Embrace these DIY cleaning hacks and enjoy a sparkling and inviting space that you can be proud of.