Everyone knows it’s important to wash your bedsheets regularly, preferably once a week if you can swing it. Sheets can accumulate more bacteria than a doorknob within seven days, so keeping fresh bedding on the mattress is a good way to fight illness, allergies and skin problems.

But what about when it comes to washing a duvet? Sure, washing a duvet cover may be part of your regular cleaning routine, but as it turns out, washing a down duvet is equally important. If you want to sleep in a clean bed without ruining the down and fabric fibers, here’s what you need to know.

How Often Should You Wash a Duvet?

The good news is that you don’t need to wash duvets as regularly as you do your sheets and duvet cover. Unless you have an accident or a spill on the duvet, you only need to clean it once a year. That’s the same advice whether you have a down-filled duvet or a synthetic version.

If you only use your duvet during winter, wash it before you make the bed. Otherwise, consider adding the task to any significant yearly cleaning rituals, like spring cleaning, to remind yourself to do it.

Related: How Often Should You Wash Your Sheets?

What Is the Best Way to Wash a Duvet?

It’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, but if you can’t find them and have a washing machine big enough to hold the duvet, you can use that.

Down duvets don’t always hold up against harsh chemicals or detergents, so select a mild or gentle detergent when you wash yours. Use warm water and a gentle cycle to protect the fabric, and set the machine to the extra-rinse function. That helps to remove any leftover detergent from the duvet at the end.

If you have a real duvet with goose down and a washing machine with a central agitator, consider sending your duvet out for cleaning instead. Otherwise, you could run the risk of rips.

How to Spot Clean a Duvet?

Stains are never fun, but they’re incredibly tiresome on a duvet. To remove them, fill a spray bottle with warm water and grab a mild stain remover. Push the filling away from the stained area and apply the stain remover to the outer fabric. Pat the fabric with a clean, white rag and let it sit for at least 20 minutes. If the stain is still there, try rubbing the fabric together or scrubbing it with a clean brush.

Once the stain is gone, spray the area with the bottle to remove any soap. You can now blow dry the area or wash the entire duvet following the steps above.

Related: 8 Cleaning Secrets From Four Seasons Hotel Toronto

Should You Soak a Duvet Before Washing It?

Some people like to soak their duvets in a giant container or bathtub overnight before washing it, but that isn’t necessary. However, to clean your duvet by hand, fill the container with warm water and a small amount of mild or natural detergent.

Push the duvet into the water mixture and make sure it’s thoroughly submerged. You don’t need to soak the duvet overnight; if there are no tough stains or spills, 10 minutes should be enough. After that, drain the water and begin rinsing the duvet with fresh water until all the soap is gone. Lay it flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated room to dry.

How to Dry a Duvet?

If you’ve got a dryer big enough to handle your duvet, that’s your best bet to ensure it dries thoroughly (and quickly!). Place the duvet in the machine and select a low, air-dry setting. It may take a few hours, and you’ll need to stop the machine a few times to redistribute the duvet and ensure equal drying.

If you have dryer balls or tennis balls, throwing them into the dryer with the duvet can also help to redistribute the feathers and keep them from clumping as the duvet dries. Tennis balls will also create air pockets, which make the duvet fluffier.

Just remember that whether you have natural or synthetic down, both materials cannot stand high heat, so use the lowest heat setting.

If your dryer isn’t large enough to hold the duvet, dry it on a clothesline or drying rack.

How to Clean Other Down-Filled Items

If you’ve got other down-filled items to wash, like sleeping bags, jackets or pillows, always treat them gently. That means using warm water, mild detergent, a gentle cycle and no extra scents, which can break down materials over time.

Before washing, zip any zippers and empty pockets. Check for loose seams that tear easily during washing, and reinforce them if necessary. Always use the extra rinse option to ensure all soap is washed away.

In doubt? Just like with a duvet cover, you can always turn to a professional for a thorough clean.

The lawn is getting longer, those weeds need pulling and you have already made a few trips to the garden centre in anticipation of the raised garden bed you’re building this weekend. Summer is right around the corner, and now is the perfect time to take stock of your power tools and garden gadgets. After all, if a job is worth doing, it’s worth doing right — and with the right tools. In partnership with Home Hardware, we’ve compiled a list of everything you need to keep your property and projects in check this summer.

What Is a Power Tool and Why Are They Handy?

Power tools are what their title implies: powered by a power source, such as electricity, gas or battery. They can also be powered by compressed air. Power tools are great for completing a job faster since they reduce manual labour and increase efficiency. They are also handy for heavy-duty or specialized jobs and can help avoid injuries that could occur when attempting a tough or dangerous job by hand.

Related: These Are the Biggest Hazards to Watch Out for When Using Tools at Home

What Are Some Examples of Power Tools?

Common power tools include saws (circular, jig, miter), power drills, drivers, angle grinders and electric sanders. Meanwhile, power lawnmowers, blowers, and trimmers are also essential outdoor power tools.

What Is the Best Make of Power Tools?

There are many brands of power tools on the market, so it’s essential to do your research. If you’re low on storage space, invest in power tools that can complete various indoor and outdoor tasks. You may also want to consider tools that work together or use a universal battery or power source.

You also don’t need to buy the most expensive power tools to get the job done. Reliable and budget-friendly options, like Benchmark power tools, offer solid performance and durability.

Related: 4 Fool-Proof Tips to Help You Stop Putting Off That DIY Project

What Are Some Essential Power Tools?

There are many power tools to choose from, but beginner to intermediate home users should consider these four Benchmark power tools to start. Available at Home Hardware, they all work with the universal 20V Omega Battery System. The system, which powers all compatible Benchmark and power tools, features zero memory loss and a slower loss of battery charge when not in use. Having an integrated battery system allows you to move seamlessly from one project and tool to the next. Take a look as Kenny Brain expertly builds a versatile garden box using Benchmark’s power tools, made even easier with one of their universal batteries.

Benchmark Cordless Drill Driver

You can use power drills to quickly create holes in a variety of surfaces, while drivers are great for fastening screws and bolts and are less likely to strip your fastener. This drill-driver combo does both tasks with one cordless machine. Plus, it’s lightweight and has an LED spotlight to get a clear view of your project.

You can use it to hang shelves or curtains, replace cabinet hardware or drawer slides or complete small at-home projects. Some social media users have also used an auger bit on their power tool to drill holes into compact dirt to quickly plant flower bulbs.

Benchmark 20V Max 1/2” Cordless Drill Driver Kit, Home Hardware, $135.

Benchmark Circular Saw

Circular saws quickly cut materials like wood, plastic and metal, completing projects faster. This saw is usually best for woodworking, though. You can use it to build shelves, fences, frames or put together outdoor planters.

This circular saw is lightweight and easy to use, with aluminum upper and lower guards for safety. The footplate is adjustable, and it includes a sightline blower so you can make more precise cuts. There’s also a removable dust chute to minimize mess.

Benchmark 20V Max 7-1/4” Circular Saw, Home Hardware, $100.

Benchmark Max Cordless Reciprocating Saw

Reciprocating saws are often used for demolition and renovation projects. They’re advantageous because they’re portable and lightweight. You can use them for various tasks, like cutting nails and frames, plumbing etc, creating notches or even trimming branches outside.

They can also cut through a wide range of materials, from metal to plastic. This heavy-duty reciprocating saw has variable speeds for maximum control and ergonomic grips to minimize user fatigue.

Benchmark 20V Max Cordless Reciprocating Saw, Home Hardware, $55.

Benchmark Cordless Brad Nail & Staple Gun

If you have a project that requires a lot of nails or staples, this power tool is quite helpful. Use it for trim (baseboards, window casings and crown molding), building shelves and cabinetry, assembling planter boxes or even securing upholstery.

Brad models shoot smaller nails and staples required for delicate and lightweight projects, making them a home handy person’s best friend. Benchmark’s model can drive up to 2” nails or staples from its narrow body, which allows you to easily position it, even in tight corners. There’s also a safety mechanism to prevent accidental firing and an LED work light to maximize visibility.

Benchmark 20V Cordless Brad Nail & Staple Gun – 18 Gauge, Home Hardware, $280.

 What Are Some Essential Power Garden Tools?

Keep your yard trim and tidy all summer long by working smarter, not harder with these essential Benchmark power tools from Home Hardware Canada. They each work with the universal 20V Omega Battery System, helping you jump from task to task with ease. Watch the video above as Kenny Brain makes yard maintenance look like a walk in the park thanks to a variety of Benchmark garden power tools.

Benchmark Cordless Lawn Mower

This powerful lawn mower features a 1,000W brushless motor and a two-in-one design that allows mulching or rear-bagging options. It comes with six cut-height adjustments for the perfect cut, foam handles for maximum comfort and a safety bail and overload protection to ensure overall safety. It can collect up to 50 litres of grass at a time, and charges in just over two hours.

Benchmark 19.3” Cordless Lawn Mower – 40V Max, Home Hardware, $350.

Benchmark Cordless Lawn Trimmer

This fast-loading, dual-line spool trimmer knocks down overgrown grass and awkward corners in a flash. With its 15” swath and powerful brushless motor, you can tackle broad sections at a time without overexerting your arms. It has a retractable guard to protect those flowerbeds and two speeds for custom work.

Benchmark 15” Cordless Lawn Trimmer – 40V, Home Hardware, $250.

Benchmark Cordless Hedge Trimmer

Embrace the art of hedge and bush maintenance with this powerful hedge trimmer. Its brushless motor and dual-action, 22” blade cut through thick foliage. You can also use it to cut down dry weeds and overgrowth, prune perennials and eliminate tiny branches. The tool features a full, wrap-around handle with a safety switch on three sides and upgraded bearings for longer life.

Benchmark 22″ Cordless Hedge Trimmer – 20V Max, Home Hardware, $180.

 

You don’t have to be Monica Geller to appreciate a clean house. Some research indicates that clutter and mess can contribute to stress and depression, while a tidy living space can improve your mental and physical health. A clean home can also improve air quality, reduce allergies, and keep pests away. It also helps you avoid sickness.

The truth is, we all know there are plenty of benefits to cleaning. The problem is that, unlike Monica Geller, most of us just don’t have the time, energy or motivation. Luckily, there are strategies that make cleaning your house a whole lot easier.

“Effective cleaning is not just about how quickly you can get it done,” says Lina DaSilva, one of the founders of Toronto Shine Cleaning. “It’s about creating a healthy, happy environment in your home. We forget how living in a clean and organized space can improve our mental and overall health.”

Read on for some of DaSilva’s best tips on how to clean smarter — and not harder — in 2024.

Divide And Conquer

Starting a big clean can be overwhelming, which is why you should always have a plan. DaSilva likes to think of her own home as a little map, which she divides into different zones and then tackles one by one. This strategy also works if cleaning an area of your home every day is one of your New Year’s resolutions.

“Think of it like this: every day, give a quick wipe to places that get a lot of action, like kitchen counters, bathroom sinks and shower boxes,” she says. “A light cleaning is your best friend. It’s surprising how quickly dust and grime can build up.”

Then, once a week, DaSilva recommends diving into a more thorough cleaning with actions like vacuuming and mopping, dusting, and cleaning the toilets. “It’s all about balancing maintenance and deep cleaning,” she adds.

Related: 10 Things You Should Never Clean With Water

Clean it Right the First Time

Many people have specific areas they like to keep clean, but DaSilva says that becoming fixated on certain spots can also eat up precious cleaning time.

“It’s funny how we can get fixated on certain spots in the house,” she says. “For instance, a lot of people I’ve worked with have this habit of obsessively cleaning their floors and countertops. It’s like they’re on a quest for that elusive, perfect shine.”

While it’s great to clean those areas, DaSilva warns it’s possible to go overboard redoing the same spots multiple times.

“Overcleaning can be inefficient. The trick is to clean it right the first time. Use the right tools and products and give it a thorough, effective clean. That way you’re not going in circles!”

Related: 10 Smart Ways to Clean Your Kitchen With Lemon Juice

Work From Top to Bottom

One of DaSilva’s top cleaning tips is to work from the top to bottom of each room. She advises beginning by dusting higher-up areas like mirrors, art, and fans. Then, work your way down to mid-level surfaces like tables, chairs and windowsills. Finish with the lowest points, like floors and carpets. That way, you’re not doubling up on work.

“Imagine dusting your coffee table, then cleaning the ceiling fan, and watching all the dust from the fan settle where you’ve just cleaned,” she says. “Frustrating, right?”

Related: How to Clean Your Couch (And Tips to Keep it Clean)

Don’t Forget Overlooked Areas

DaSilva often sees people forget about some of the smaller but high-traffic areas in the home, like door handles, light switches and remote controls.

“It’s usually the stuff we touch all the time but don’t really notice how dirty they get,” she says. “Baseboards are often overlooked, but they can get pretty dusty very quickly.”

Related: How to Deep Clean Your Oven

Set Aside Enough Time

Each home is unique and the amount of time it takes to clean it varies. House size, overall tidiness, what’s actually within the home, and whether you’ve got kids and/or pets all factor in.

Generally, DaSilva says it’s smart to put aside three to five hours to clean each week but be realistic about how much time you may actually need to do a proper job.

“If your home is generally well-kept and tidy, your weekly cleaning will be more about maintenance,” she says. “But if you’re dealing with clutter, dishes, picking up after kids and pets before you even get down to the cleaning part, it’s like you have to do a bit of a clean-up before you can even start on your actual cleaning list.”

Related: Sneaky Places You Probably Forgot to Clean Before Guests Arrive

Know When to Hire a Pro

If you’re in the position to financially hire someone to come in and help you clean your house, it may be one of the best investments you make all year. Having a professional come in biweekly or monthly doesn’t just free up your time, but it allows someone with fresh eyes to tackle your space.

“Honestly, it’s a game changer. Having someone come in even just a couple of times a month can massively up the cleanliness and hygiene level of your place,” DaSilva says. “Plus, instead of spending your weekend scrubbing floors, you could be out there living your life, maybe catching up with friends or just relaxing.”

The weatherman said it would be a perfect evening. So, why is it raining on your beautifully prepared al fresco buffet table? Ah, the weather, such a fickle friend. You can’t let the changing whims of Mother Nature prevent you from experiencing the joys of entertaining in the great outdoors this summer. Just make sure to cover all your bases with a “Plan B” that will ensure your party keeps on going, even in stormy weather.

Party Tent Perfection: If the long range forecast before your party calls for a very high chance of rain, it may be a good idea to rent a party tent and set it up, rain or shine. Move guests indoors if lightning makes an appearance, but otherwise, you should be able to dance the night away under the sturdy roof of the rented tent.

Recreation Room Respite: The basement rec room is a great place to move a party when the skies open. Place a drop sheet at the top of the stairs so guests can wipe wet feet and remove shoes. Enlist a few strong souls to help carry down tables, chairs and food, then turn up the tunes and let the party continue!

Garage Rock: If you have a garage, use it! Even if the weather reports call for fun in the sun a few days before the party, take a little time to tidy out the old car park. Throw old blankets, drop sheets or tarps over those particularly nasty areas, and make sure there is plenty of room for tables and chairs. Then, if the weather goes south, you can herd the group into a clean, dry area.

Hosting Tips: How to Plan a Party on a Tight Budget

Tarp Time: Get your hands on some large tarps and twine, and if the skies begin to cloud over, tie them to trees or posts over main areas. This way, you can stay outside and remain dry. Watch out for lighting, though, and if you see some, move your guests inside. You don’t want to endanger anyone.

Rainy Day Games: In addition to the outdoor activities you may have planned, be prepared with a few rainy day games. Trivia or definition games that can be played in teams are a good idea. Also, parents will thank you if you rent a few movies to keep younger guests occupied if they end up stuck indoors.

Fireside Fun: Got a fireplace? Stock up on firewood before your party, and if the skies open up you can offer guests a cozy area to warm up and dry off.

Sweater Solace: Being cold and damp is never fun. If you have some extra sweaters and blankets available, your guests will marvel at how thoughtful you are.

Cover Me! For light drizzles, buy extra drop sheets and use them to temporarily cover food and beverage tables. Then you won’t have to rush everything inside for a simple sun show.

Beat the Heat: Rain isn’t the only type of weather that can put a damper on a party. Climbing temperatures can be a real bummer, too. Get out the sprinkler, open up the pool, or organize a water balloon fight. Don’t forget the extra towels and make sure you have plenty of water and non-alcoholic beverages to keep guests hydrated. Also, set up as many chairs and tables in the shade as possible and consider erecting a tarp.

Family Flight Plan: Get your family together and establish a stormy weather game plan, giving each person a job. If it starts to rain, instead of panicking, you’ll all spring into action and the party will be saved in no time!

When life hands you lemons, forget the lemonade, put those lemons to good use around your home with these genius life hacks.

We’ve found 10 clever ways to clean, shine, polish and decorate with this gorgeous citrus fruit. You’ll never look at lemons the same way again!

Do you have any clever uses for lemons? Let us know in the comments section below!