So, ever wondered what happens when you leave your purse within reach of the babies? They almost instinctively take your makeup bag, ruin your favorite eyeshadow and smear your lipstick on their face so that they look like bozo the clown. As if that’s not bad enough, they then attack your carpet like it’s a coloring book and your lipstick is the world’s best crayon.

Sigh… welcome to my world. My daughter colored on the carpet with my lipstick (good thing it was a cheap one because she totally ruined it) and I was left wondering just one thing: how to remove a lipstick stain!

First Attempt: Baby Wipes

Usually, when I’m faced with a mess I attack it with baby wipes because I have plenty of them on hand and they’re already pre-moistened with “cleaner”.

For me, this didn’t go too well…

Next attempt: Alcohol

I hit the internet and seen that alcoohol is recommended. I have plenty of that on hand so I dabbed and then poured 90% isopropyl alcohol on the stain. I went through 5 paper towels and each one was filled with color so it did pick up quite a bit. After some elbow grease, it looked significantly better but the stain is still visible.

Attempt 3: Carpet Stain Remover

Okay, I don’t like to use these kinds of chemicals when they’re not needed, but this stain remover really does work. The active ingredient is 2-Butoxyethanol, which is not at all eco-friendly. Although it made me feel a little guilty, it did get rid of the stain.

Alternative Solution: I was thinking about using the alcohol, letting it dry, and then my carpet cleaner filled with just water and vinegar, as this works for stains much of the time, but decided against it since the babies were home and usually get in my way when I try to do stuff like that.

So, I’ve decided that every solution took more time than simply remembering to put my purse away. That, is the first and most obvious action to take. If you (like me) can’t even get that right, the next step I would recommend using rubbing alcohol to get the bulk of the lipstick out, letting that dry, and using either a stain remover or carpet cleaner on the remaining stain if there is one.

Opinion: Baby wipes suck for lipstick stains.

Fact: Rubbing alcohol helps with to remove lipstick stains.

Opinion: Carpet stain spray on removers are a lifesaver but should be used sparingly.

Purchasing and installing bamboo shades provide you with lots of advantages. It’s no wonder why interior designers and homeowners themselves are going for this particular window covering these days. They give your room a touch of style, and they’re also budget- and eco-friendly too.

There are those crafted from long and thin pieces of bamboo, woven together. Then there are also those composed of slats, giving them the same looks as typical window blinds. When used alone, they are perfect in complementing practically any room decors or accents. Although there are some people which use them together with valances or curtains, to achieve a particular appeal.

Slight variation in colors of each item is given, since they’re from all-natural materials. And this quality gives your window and room a unique charm and organic feel to them. However, you may opt for dyed or bleached variants if you’re after color consistency. Some even come painted with patterns or decorations, to meet just about any look you are trying to achieve.

One thing you will notice about bamboo shades is their affordability. But the money-saving feature does not end and begin with purchasing them. Installing these window shades can actually help you cut back on your monthly utility bills. Simply simply rolling them up can maximize the use of natural lighting during the day. If the sunlight is too intense, rolling them down filters it, but without robbing you of your natural lighting enjoyment.

They are also highly durable, and that’s another money-saving feature since you need not replace them frequently. Remember that bamboo is a long-lasting and resilient plant. It’s able to withstand harsh weather conditions in areas where they thrive best. Heat, humidity, rain – you name it, the plant can resist it. And this natural durability is carried on, even in its window covering form.

Speaking of the plant, bamboo has high sustainability. In about 5 years, it’s ready for harvesting for a variety of uses. When you go for other types of wood, just imagine the number of years it takes to replace and grow them once more. And it’s because of this high sustainability feature that makes shades out of this plant an eco-friendly choice. They’re also biodegradable and emit no harmful fumes into the air.

Shopping for them is not at all that tricky. They are available in different sizes to perfectly fit in standard window measurements. Just make sure you take careful measurements of your window, jot them down, and take them with you when shopping. Installation is also a breeze – the DIY in you can easily set it up.

Maintaining them is also simple, perfect for anyone with a busy lifestyle. For regular cleaning, a feather duster or soft cloth will do the trick. A vacuum with a duster attachment is also great. Bamboo shades will add a touch of style and completion in any room. From traditional, rustic, casual to modern – any room will benefit from bamboo’s unmistakable charm. They’re also fantastic for use in the patio, porch, lanai and the like.

Visit Jesita Jerik’s webstore at bamboo shades, for a limited time promotion on all window shades.

Roller shades provide a great alternative for curtains or traditional window shades for your windows. That is why they are great considerations when redecorating any room in the house. Since they have become popular, you got several types to choose from, depending on your decorating or utility requirements.

Although most of them are very affordable, still, you should see to it you are getting your money’s worth. There are a few things you need to consider, like the material, design, size and others. Continue reading to know some basics in buying. And you might also want to provide some time shopping around for the right one.

First thing you should consider is your privacy needs. You see, there are window shades crafted from materials that will completely block out the view both from the outside and inside. They will also provide some sort of insulation as well. And there are others from sheer or opaque materials that focus on maximizing natural lighting.

Blackout shades is great for certain rooms in the house. They include where you watch your favorite blockbuster films, or where you put on your clothes. Opaque ones are great for areas in the house where some furnishings need to be protected from excessive heat or sunlight. Sheer ones are great where you need to maximize natural lighting. But no matter what you pick, each one of them can be rolled up or down with no trouble.

Shopping for them is not a setback. A trip to the department store, as well as on the internet, will tell you that. Where you purchase them depends on certain factors, such as your location or schedule. While ready-made ones are easily available, sometimes customized ones are necessary. Although obviously more expensive, customized window shades are necessary for unusually shaped or sized windows.

Consider the room where you will be placing your purchase. Either they should match the paint or wallpaper, or add a touch of color. It will help if you could take with you paint or wallpaper sample of your room. This will make your selecting much easier. However, take note that they will slightly look different when already installed and light shines through.

Then you also must have precise measurements of your windows where window shades will be installed. See to it that what you will be buying is both long and wide enough to cover the window. While you are at it, consider what type of mechanism you like for them to have. Some come with the usual cord that you tug, while some come with a rod you turn. There are also completely motorized ones, even coming with a remote controller.

If you are the DIY kind, you may install them on your own. However you may also hire a professional for your convenience. When it comes to cleaning and maintenance, roller ones sure got an edge over your typical drapes or curtains. All it takes is simple wiping off of dust using a cloth or feather duster. Washing them is only necessary for presence of tough stains.

With all sorts of colors, designs, sizes and functions, there’s no doubt you will easily find the right ones. Roller shades are readily available in department stores and other similar shops. They are not as expensive and high-maintenance as curtains or drapes. However, they give the same functions and ornamental touch, but with a modern twist.

Learn how to budget and choose window shades. Stop by Jerikat Jennison’s site where you can find out all about roller shades and what they can do for you when saving money is also an issue.

Roller shades can often be such a valuable addition within any room of the average house. When the attached switch is flipped these type of shades will automatically begin to draw themselves. They have been known to run from several types of power and current. They are often made from all types of popular materials and can prevent great sun damage in some rooms. If you have very high windows that you cannot reach this type of product might be a viable option to consider.

These window shades are able to run off of low voltage electricity. That means that all you need is a special a/c adapter for your wall outlet. As long as your home has power you know that the window shades will operate properly. They typically run off of two types of current. Twelve volt and twenty four volt. They could also be easily plugged into an outlet where they would not be very noticeable.

Batteries are another popular way that these type of shades may be operated. There is no need to worry about your wall outlet or messy wires being strung around when you choose battery operated shades. You might want to be sure you utilize batteries that have a long life. If the batteries were to die prematurely your shades would not function. Also be sure to replace your batteries on a steady basis.

Solar technology may be utilized to power the roller shades. When they are designed around this concept the window shades are connected to a special piece outside that has been built with solar panels inside of it. During moments where the sun is beating down these panels work to collect all of the solar energy they can. Then store it and use it to power the window shades at any time you wish. Areas that experience a lot of sunless days might not consider this type of product an option.

Roller shades have been known to come in many distinct varieties. Just like traditional shades they can be made from any kind of fabric that a customer wishes. If people are into vinyl or the more laminate styles, these can easily be found as well. These shade designs have just as many design options as the traditional ones. The only difference would be the fact that they are motorized.

These window shades can work very well to protect your furniture and other home accessories from the dangers of something called sun damage. This is the damage that takes place when various accessories suffer very extended periods of time being exposed to very harsh sun rays. With this product, a flip of the switch will prevent that from happening. There are even some roller products referred to as black out shades. They were specifically designed to fight sun damage.

Shades can often be left open for long periods of time if they are attached to windows that are hard to reach. The average home owner might not be able to reach a very high window. With these roller products, all of the windows may be reached. The more dangerous option of getting a ladder may no longer be necessary. This is often a very good thing.

When people consider the possibility of turning to roller shades there are many things they must keep in mind. This type of product has many great features and benefits to boast. However, there are certain places in the world where this product might not be needed at all. If you do not live in one of those places you have many designs to choose from and several options in roller powering.

Learn how to choose and save on window shades. Stop by Jesita Jerik’s site where you can find out all about roller shades and what they can do for you when saving money is also an issue.

A home remodeling or renovation project is not as simple as it may sound. Renovating a building is not just all about how it will look or function, but most importantly you have to consider what kind of materials are used during the renovation, how are you going to deal with your suppliers and contractors, etc. These of course will be covered by the person who will supervise the project. Thus before a renovation project starts, one of the most essential decisions to be made is who will manage the project.

You can either hire a professional who will do the work or alternatively, you can handle the project yourself. If you choose to manage the work yourself, make sure that you have sufficient experience to deal with this. According to Gail La Grouw, the following are some common mistakes done by owners who have decided to take on the role of managing the renovation project themselves,

1. Poor Planning

Creating a good plan is a important part of your role as a project manager. The success of the project largely depend on this. Your plan must include as much detail as possible. You have to consider planning for contingencies as well.

2. Poor Materials Management

Purchasing of the appropriate materials at the right time is a large job during renovation. Think about this job properly, as it can be the reason of delay to your schedule. You can also get additional cost if you do not have your materials at the right time.

3. Poor Record Keeping

Lodge everything particularly things that have to do with funds. Record keeping must be done everyday. You surely will leave out something in your list if you do it in an inconsistent way. Record keeping will also let you know precisely where you are in terms of time and dollars against the plan specification.

4. Not Managing The Work Site

Most subcontractors are seeking to reduce cost by disregarding a number of regulations and workplace safety items. This is a bad thing of course. Make sure that there is a proper insurance for their area of work.

5. Poor Communication

As home owners are not that familiar with terms being used for renovation, miscommunication can happen along the way. Make sure that when you do not understand things, clarify it, but never loose your authority in front of your contractors of course.

6. Poor Change Management Control

All changes made during the renovation process must be documented and sign off.

7. Not Keeping Check of the Budget

Watch your budget, as most projects will overrun the initial estimate, make sure to add some percentage of your budget for your contingency plans.

Learn more about Home Renovation Tips and the best Renovation Singapore Contractors from our list most recommended renovation and interior designing companies.