Category Archives: DIY

Here’s how you can grow bay leaves at home

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**Here’s How You Can Grow Bay Leaves at Home**
*By Anujj Trehaan | Sep 30, 2025, 10:43 am*

Growing bay leaves indoors can be a rewarding experience, offering fresh, aromatic herbs to enhance your cooking. Bay laurel trees are well-known for their flavorful leaves, which add depth to a variety of dishes. With the right care and conditions, you can successfully cultivate bay leaves right inside your home.

Here are some practical tips to help you grow healthy bay laurel plants indoors:

### 1. Choosing the Right Pot
Selecting an appropriate pot is essential for indoor bay leaf growth. Look for containers with good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the roots. A pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter provides ample space for root expansion. Additionally, choose breathable materials like terracotta or ceramic, which help maintain proper moisture levels in the soil.

### 2. Providing Adequate Light
Bay laurel trees thrive when exposed to plenty of light. Position your plant near a south-facing window to ensure it receives at least six hours of sunlight daily. If natural sunlight is limited, consider using grow lights as a supplement. Place the lights about 12 inches above the plant and leave them on for 12 to 16 hours each day to mimic natural conditions.

### 3. Maintaining Proper Soil Conditions
Using the right soil mix is crucial for healthy bay leaves indoors. Opt for a well-draining potting mix enriched with organic matter such as peat moss or compost. This combination retains moisture without becoming soggy. The ideal soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6 to 7. Check soil moisture regularly by inserting your finger about an inch deep—water only when this top layer feels dry.

### 4. Watering and Fertilizing Wisely
Proper watering and fertilization keep your bay laurel vibrant and thriving. Water the plant whenever the top inch of soil is dry, but avoid overwatering by ensuring excess water can drain freely from the pot’s base. During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your bay laurel with a balanced liquid fertilizer every four weeks, following the product instructions carefully for best results.

### 5. Pruning for Healthy Growth
Pruning plays a vital role in maintaining the shape and size of your bay laurel while stimulating new growth. Use sharp shears to trim any leggy or overgrown branches, ideally in early spring before new growth begins. Regular pruning will keep your plant healthy, tidy, and attractive throughout the year.

By following these straightforward tips, you can enjoy fresh bay leaves at home year-round. Happy gardening!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/how-to-grow-bay-leaves-indoors/story

How to keep your dog’s bed clean

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**How to Keep Your Dog’s Bed Clean**
*By Anujj Trehaan | Sep 30, 2025, 11:01 am*

Keeping your dog’s bedding clean is essential for their health and comfort. Regular cleaning helps keep away allergens and bacteria, ensuring your pet stays happy and healthy. While professional cleaning services can be costly, there are budget-friendly DIY hacks to keep your dog’s bed fresh without breaking the bank.

Here are five practical tips to maintain your furry friend’s bed on a budget:

### 1. Use Baking Soda for Odor Control
Baking soda is a versatile and inexpensive household item that works wonders in controlling odors. Simply sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on your dog’s bedding and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Then, vacuum it off. This simple trick absorbs unpleasant smells, leaving the bedding smelling fresher and creating a pleasant environment for your pet.

### 2. Vinegar Solution for Stain Removal
Vinegar is another budget-friendly solution ideal for removing stains. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and apply it to the stained areas on the bedding. Let it sit for about five minutes, then blot with a clean cloth. The acidity of vinegar helps break down tough stains without using harsh chemicals.

### 3. Wash with Natural Soap Flakes
Natural soap flakes are an excellent alternative to commercial detergents when washing dog bedding. They are gentle on fabrics and skin-friendly for pets. Dissolve some soap flakes in warm water and use this solution to hand wash the bedding or machine wash on a gentle cycle. This method keeps the fabric soft while effectively removing dirt and grime.

### 4. Sunlight Drying for Freshness
After washing your dog’s bedding, dry it outdoors in sunlight whenever possible. The sun’s UV rays naturally disinfect fabrics and leave them smelling fresh. Sunlight also helps eliminate moisture more quickly compared to indoor drying methods like tumble drying or air drying indoors, which may take longer.

### 5. Essential Oils as Natural Fresheners
Essential oils such as lavender or eucalyptus can serve as natural fresheners for dog beds when used sparingly. Add one or two drops onto cotton balls and place them near—but not directly on—your dog’s bed. This ensures no direct contact with your pet, as some oils may cause irritation if misused. This method gives a pleasant aroma without compromising safety.

By incorporating these simple and affordable tips into your routine, you can keep your dog’s bedding clean, fresh, and comfortable for your beloved pet.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/diy-dog-bedding-cleaning-5-hacks/story

Here’s how you can grow bay leaves at home

Posted on by
Reply

**Here’s How You Can Grow Bay Leaves at Home**
*By Anujj Trehaan | Sep 30, 2025, 10:43 AM*

Growing bay leaves indoors can be a rewarding experience, providing fresh, aromatic herbs for your culinary creations. Bay laurel trees are prized for their flavorful leaves that can enhance a wide variety of dishes. With the right conditions and care, you can successfully cultivate these plants inside your home.

Here are some practical tips to help you grow healthy bay leaves indoors:

### 1. Choosing the Right Pot
Selecting the proper pot is essential for your bay laurel’s growth. Opt for a container with good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the roots. A pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter allows enough space for root expansion. Additionally, choose breathable materials like terracotta or ceramic to help maintain optimal moisture levels in the soil.

### 2. Providing Adequate Light
Bay laurel trees require plenty of light to thrive indoors. Place your plant near a south-facing window where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight daily. If natural light is limited, consider using grow lights as an alternative. Position the lights about 12 inches above the plant and keep them on for 12 to 16 hours each day to mimic natural sunlight.

### 3. Maintaining Proper Soil Conditions
A well-draining soil mix is vital for growing bay leaves indoors. Use potting soil enriched with organic matter such as peat moss or compost, which helps retain moisture without becoming soggy. Ideally, the soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6 to 7. To gauge moisture levels, stick your finger about an inch into the soil; water only when the top inch feels dry.

### 4. Watering and Fertilizing Wisely
Water your bay laurel when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring excess water drains out from the bottom of the pot to avoid overwatering. During the active growing season (spring and summer), feed your plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every four weeks. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for best results.

### 5. Pruning for Healthy Growth
Pruning is crucial to maintain your bay laurel’s shape and encourage new growth. Use sharp shears to trim any leggy or overgrown branches, ideally in early spring before the new growth begins. Regular pruning will keep your plant healthy and looking its best throughout the year.

By following these simple steps, you can enjoy fresh bay leaves at home while nurturing a beautiful indoor plant. Happy gardening!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/how-to-grow-bay-leaves-indoors/story

How to keep your dog’s bed clean

Posted on by
Reply

**How to Keep Your Dog’s Bed Clean**
*By Anujj Trehaan | Sep 30, 2025, 11:01 am*

Keeping your dog’s bedding clean is essential for their health and comfort. Regular cleaning helps keep allergens and bacteria at bay, ensuring your pet stays happy and healthy. While professional cleaning services can be costly, there are budget-friendly DIY hacks that can help you maintain your dog’s bed without breaking the bank.

Here are five practical tips to keep your furry friend’s bed fresh and clean on a budget:

**1. Use Baking Soda for Odor Control**
Baking soda is a versatile and inexpensive household item that works wonders in controlling odors. Simply sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on your dog’s bedding and let it sit for about 15 minutes before vacuuming it off. This trick absorbs unpleasant smells, leaving the bedding smelling fresher and creating a pleasant environment for your pet.

**2. Vinegar Solution for Stain Removal**
Vinegar is another affordable and effective solution for removing stains. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle, then apply it to the stained areas of the bedding. Let it sit for approximately five minutes before blotting with a clean cloth. The acidity in vinegar helps break down stains without the need for harsh chemicals.

**3. Wash with Natural Soap Flakes**
When washing dog bedding, natural soap flakes are an excellent alternative to commercial detergents. They are gentle on fabrics and safe for your pet’s skin. Dissolve some soap flakes in warm water and use this solution to hand wash or machine wash the bedding on a gentle cycle. This method keeps the fabric soft while effectively removing dirt and grime.

**4. Sunlight Drying for Freshness**
After washing, dry your dog’s bedding outdoors in sunlight whenever possible. The sun’s UV rays naturally disinfect fabrics and leave them smelling fresh. Additionally, sunlight helps eliminate moisture faster than indoor drying methods, such as tumble drying or air drying inside, which can take longer.

**5. Essential Oils as Natural Fresheners**
Essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus can serve as natural fresheners for your dog’s bed when used carefully. Add one or two drops onto cotton balls and place them near—but not directly on—the bed. This ensures your pet does not come into direct contact with the oils, as some may cause irritation if misused. This method provides a pleasant aroma while maintaining safety.

By following these simple and cost-effective tips, you can keep your dog’s bed clean, fresh, and inviting—promoting a healthier and happier pet!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/diy-dog-bedding-cleaning-5-hacks/story

Eight interior designer-approved easy updates to give your home an autumnal update – including the top designer dupes

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1. Go Brown (Yes, Really!)

Chocolate, caramel, and espresso shades are popping up on everything from rugs to tiles and walls. As striking (and practical for homes with kids or pets) as a brown sofa can be, it’s best to start small with a vase or cushion and build from there. Sostrene Grene has a wide range of brown textiles and furnishings to help you test out the trend.

Another option is to refresh walls or furniture with a coat of brown paint. This will pair beautifully with other autumnal tones such as rust, ochre, and forest green, while also grounding softer neutrals like cream and blush. Painting an internal door, skirting boards, a bookshelf, or even a wall will quickly dial up the cosiness factor.

Try the ganache-inspired Affogato from Little Greene or the soft cinnamon-brown Hidden Valley from Benjamin Moore Paint.

2. Warm Up with Bulbs and Lamps

Lighting is one of the easiest ways to get your home autumn-ready, and the best part is, you don’t need to buy new fittings or call an electrician to enjoy the glow. Simply swap your existing bulbs or LEDs for amber-toned versions to create a warm atmosphere. B&Q sells a good selection.

Replacing lampshades with ones in warm materials such as brass or wicker is another easy win. Try Next for stylish and affordable options.

3. Try a Designer Dupe

This season, it’s easier than ever to channel designer style without the hefty price tag. Some of our favourite high-street finds include:

  • Lakeland’s colourful 8-in-1 Only Pan (£60), a dead-ringer for the iconic Our Place Always Pan (£125).
  • The Otto duvet cover set by Made.com (£50 for a king size), strikingly similar to the Kemptown Stripe from Piglet in Bed (£199).
  • Georges navy Bobbin lamp (£15) from Asda Direct, a budget-friendly option that channels the look of Pooky’s £72 design.

4. Block Out the Draught Stylishly

Insulating and draught-proofing your external doors is crucial as the weather gets cooler. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. This season, many high-street stores are offering plush and patterned draught excluders.

Among our favourites are the Ollin (£25) from Perch & Sparrow, and Dunelm’s Linford Stripe (£16) from Dunelm.

5. Bring Nature Indoors

A touch of the outdoors can make a big difference to the look and feel of your home, and it doesn’t have to cost a lot. Instead of splurging on fresh flowers, fill vases with branches for a sculptural centrepiece, or use dark foliage such as eucalyptus parvifolia and Cercis canadensis ‘Forest Pansy’ to create an instant focal point.

You can find these at most local florists, while retailers such as Layered Lounge offer a convincing faux selection — cheaper, and no one will notice.

6. Get Cosy with Textiles

Swapping lightweight linens and cottons for velvet, wool, and chunky knits is an easy way to prep your home for autumn. A throw draped over the arm of a sofa, cushions, or a bedspread in earthy tones can instantly transform a space at low cost.

H&M and Zara Home have a wide selection. Instead of buying new cushions, consider investing in covers — they are easy to store away when spring rolls back around.

7. Spice Up Your Room Scents

Change breezy summer florals for warm notes such as cinnamon, clove, and sandalwood. Room diffusers and sprays often last longer than candles and are just as decorative.

Rituals has recently launched a limited-edition reed diffuser, Intuitia (£37.90), with notes of saffron and vanilla that linger for up to three months.

For a DIY approach, try making your own seasonal scent. Simply simmer sliced oranges and cinnamon sticks in plenty of water on the hob to give your kitchen an instant aromatic boost that can last for hours.

8. Dress the Dining Table

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https://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/you/article-15125343/Eight-interior-designer-approved-easy-updates-home-autumnal-update-including-designer-dupes.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490