Ready to Sell: How to Get and Keep Your Home Clean
Selling your home is no easy feat. But before you can juggle offers, nail negotiations, and work on closing, you have to get your home ready for the market. Staging your house is one of the most important parts of the sales process. By making sure your property is at its best for a photoshoot, you increase your chances of finding a buyer willing to pay a great price.
Here are some tips for getting your home clean and tidy for listing:
Buyers want to be able to see all the best parts of a property. By making your space as clean and tidy as possible, you allow them to imagine their lives in your house. This means it’s more likely to catch their attention, get an offer, and sell for the price you’re dreaming of.
You know that home staging is a must if you want to sell fast and for more. What are you waiting for? A price reduction? No, we don’t like those! Let’s stage it:)
Home Staging Consultation- In Person or Online- Learn MoreRunning a home based business, like a Bed and Breakfast or vacation rental? Increase your income and bookings and attract your ideal guests .2 hours. Add a website review.Learn MoreGreat if your space needs a lot of remodeling or updates that you choose to leave o the buyer. Help them see the possibilities. Learn More.Help buyers visualize the possibilities in a vacant space so they can visualize it as their future home. Learn More.
Lose Weight, Quit Smoking, Get Healthy and Peaceful Without Pain
How are you feeling about yourself?
How are you feeling about yourself? Photo by Taylor Smith on Unsplash
Do you like the way you look?
Are you healthy and happy?
Do you feel peaceful, abundant and grateful for all you have?
Do you love the way you start each day?
Why do so many of us go on for years without changing our lives for the better? I know for me it has always been the struggle between the short-term pain versus the long-term gain.
Imagine yourself thinner, healthier, happier and more peaceful. What if you could transform yourself? I mean lose weight, quit smoking, improve your health and well-being, reduce your stress and do it all without all the “pain” we usually imagine coming along for the ride?
The Same Old Struggle
Like many people, I struggle with all of those things. Every year I had the same resolutions, goals etc. Lose weight, work out, eat better, quit smoking. EVERY YEAR for at least 20 years. I had some successes in some things some of the time, but never in all of the things.
For me it was the same old struggle. Mary Ann Benoit- President of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.
I heard about Jim Fortin and TCP (Transformational Coaching Program) from a friend who was taking the program. I listened to his free podcast and was so hooked on it I was excited to learn about the program which opens up 2 times a year. Just from listening to his podcast about controlling your thoughts and habits among other things, I was inspired to change my diet and started losing weight. I thought the program could also help me not only with health but with business. Learn more about Jim Fortin in this Inc Magazine article.
Invest money in personal development during a pandemic? Are you smoking crack?
I was scared to invest in a program like this at the beginning of COVID. The program was just under $3000. I knew business would be slow or suspended for both my Bed and Breakfast and my Home Staging and Design businesses. I had never invested in any type of “personal development” course before. I decided it was the best time to do it because I had time and it would be better to remain positive during this time of uncertainty and to make lemonade out of lemons. I also figured investing in myself and my business would hopefully pay for itself later.
Photo by Micheile Henderson on Unsplash Make a Change. Photo by Kat Yukawa on Unsplash
I soon realize that Jim and his coaches are truly amazing. I join their Facebook private group with about 500 others, and receive weekly content such as workbooks, videos and audios with homework followed by weekly Facebook lives with Jim and the coaches on a wide variety of topics from health to business. We worked on things like clarity, vision, sub-conscious values, habits, self-integrity, responsibility, commitment, choices, relationships You could also ask for coaching on any topic in the FB group or do a “hot seat” on one of the live calls. The community of people in the group from all over the world was extremely positive and supportive. Participants also did regular videos talking about their struggles and wins so everyone got to know each other.
We were each asked to do a 90 planner and track our goals and activities, with a focus on either health/wellness or business. I picked business.
So, what happened to me?
TCP Improved my Health
I joined TCP to increase my income for my Interior Design/Home Staging business.
Although my focus was business, the program instead provided incredible value to my health and well-being.
TCP helped me overcome stress over-eating and smoking that I had struggled with for more than 20 years. I lost 14 lbs, quit smoking and totally changed my diet to healthy whole foods and went from exercising a few hours a week to 3-4 hours a day.
What was interesting was what we learned about subconscious re-programming and habits helped make all these changes much less painful than I had experienced in the past. Why? As Jim mentioned in an article in Forbes Magazine, “Research has demonstrated that 95% of all habits and everything that we do is subconsciously-driven, which is housed in the right brain. But when we say, for example, ‘I’m going to change my mindset,’ that is a left-brain, analytical thought. We’re using the smallest part of the brain, the 5% analytical part, to try to change our habits at a core level, and it just doesn’t work that way.”
I also struggled with voice issues which made it difficult to speak sometimes and found that doing healing visualizations and quitting smoking helped improve that tremendously.
I also have a nerve issue in my right foot that made it painful to walk more than 30 minutes. With healing visualizations and weight loss I am out walking several times a day without pain
Re-program your subconscious mind..
TCP Improved My Well-Being
I used to be that person that would wake up thinking about what I had to do, check my email and social media and then DO DO DO all day and into the night for my business. I watched 5-6 hours of news a day and was stressed out, like a hamster on the wheel that never stopped.
Now, I start the day with a Miracle Morning routine consisting of silence, affirmations, visualizations, exercise, reading and journaling. I’ve learned do less better and feel amazingly peaceful, and grateful for all I have. I limit my news watching time to an hour or less.
TCP helped me release anger and stories I had developed from a 15 year traumatic work experience which likely caused some of my health issues and stress eating. Releasing the stories and forgiving brought me peace and healing.
Find Peace. Get off the Hamster Wheel.
My Doctor Was Amazed
Last week I went to my doctor for my annual check up and blood work. She said “Holy cow Mary Ann, What the heck have you been doing? Actually she said “Holy Shit Mary Ann, What the hell are you doing?”. My doctor and I used to dance together in a dance troupe so that is how she really talks to me:) Your blood work looks fantastic and you have lost 45 lbs from your highest weight record here. I told her about TCP. She said, “I am so proud of you, you just inspired me and made my whole day”!.
Yeah!! I’m good with that!
Photo- Wow from Pixaby
While my business income didn’t increase, I think I needed to be better to offer more to my clients and am looking forward to what the future brings for my business now that I feel like a new person. I liked it so much, I just joined TCP for Business.
“The pandemic puts the earth on pause, cleansing and shifting our planet. This course does that for me on an individual level”.
Try it for Yourself
Don’t take my word for it, try it for yourself. Some of these links are affiliate links, meaning I may get paid a small amount for referring you at no additional cost to you.
Get on the Waitlist for the next TCP Program. I think this is the best training I have ever invested in. It made a huge difference for me which is why I am sharing. I hope it can make a difference for you too.
Listen to this podcast episode- Why Your Bad Habits are So Hard To Break. This one really helped me to change some of my eating habits and lose weight, even before joining the program.
I specialize in helping you create a colorful and happy home that tells your story. I can work with you in person or online and assist you with design and color consultations so you can do the work yourself, or I can help you implement it all. My most popular package is a design/color consultation. Check out all my Edesign packages here.
Tips for Converting Your Home into a Rental Property
When most people move into a new home, they sell their old property. But this isn’t your only option! If you want to skip the stress of marketing your home and negotiating with buyers—especially during the age of social distancing—consider turning it into a rental property. Converting your residence into a rental is a great way to get into the world of real estate investing and earn some passive income. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get set up and find your first tenants!
Make a Few Upgrades
Of course, before you can rent your home out to tenants, you will have to repair anything that needs fixing. One of your responsibilities is to provide a well-maintained property. After this, consider making some upgrades! For example, give the walls a fresh coat of paint, replace your plumbing fixtures, and if you have hardwood floors, get them refinished and polished. Think about lighting that gives the home a welcoming vibe. You might even want to make some home efficiency upgrades to reduce your utility bills. At the very least, Mashvisor explains that adding in-demand features to your property should let you charge higher rental rates!
If you’re going to be doing any major renovations, make sure you come up with the funding first. Cash-out refinancing could be a viable option, especially right now—the coronavirus pandemic has resulted in low mortgage rates! As PMUSA explains, cash-out refinancing involves replacing your existing mortgage loan with a loan of a higher amount and receiving the difference in cash. It’s common for homeowners to use this cash to make home upgrades, and with such tantalizing rates, you might want to strike while the iron is hot.
Protect Your Finances
Renting out property is always somewhat risky, even if you already own the home. Planning ahead will ensure your cash flow is secure. This is especially important given the financial uncertainty surrounding the virus! Start by estimating your monthly expenses and comparing these to your desired rental rate, remembering to account for hidden costs like emergency maintenance, insurance premiums, and vacancies. To get an idea of what you can charge for rent, look at the average rates for other rentals in your area, specifically for properties that are similar to yours.
It’s also important to update your insurance when you become a landlord. Allstate explains that your existing homeowner’s insurance won’t cover accidents, robberies, or disasters that occur in your rental, so be sure to protect yourself with landlord insurance!
Photo via Rawpixel
Consider Long Term versus Short Term Rentals
Consider whether you want to do a short-term rentals such as vacation rentals, or a long term rentals for housing. Short term rentals require more work and time on your part but may give you a higher return per night and more flexibility to list your home for sale when the time is right. Short term rentals will like need to be designed and furnished to attract your ideal renters. Long term rentals may be more appealing to renters but offer you less flexibility when you want to sell.
Start Looking for Tenants
When you’re finally ready to look for tenants, start with a good rental listing. Write a catchy headline, include several quality photos, and list any information potential renters might want from you regarding the rental rate, security deposit, amenities, parking situation, move-in date, pet policy, and utilities.
Before signing a lease, make sure you screen your potential tenants thoroughly. Dealing with bad tenants is expensive and incredibly stressful, so you want to take all possible precautions to avoid issues. Some important steps in the screening process include running a background check, verifying the tenant’s income, and calling their previous landlords.
Create a Management Plan
Many first-time landlords don’t realize just how much work it is to manage a rental property. You will have to create lease agreements, collect rent, perform regular maintenance, and deal with all of the financial aspects of renting out a home. On top of all this, you must be prepared to respond to tenant concerns and requests at any hour. If you have the budget for it, hiring a property manager will take a lot of these responsibilities off your plate. Your property manager can even help you set your rental rates and find tenants!
If you’re hesitant to put your home on the market during the coronavirus pandemic, consider renting it out instead! Renting out your home can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor, especially if you want to try real estate investing. Take the right steps to prepare your rental and you’re sure to enjoy success!
Need Help Getting Your Rental Property to Stand Out from the Crowd Online?
Whether you are putting your home on the market, or renting it as a vacation or other rental, home staging and a color consultation can help you. Make sure your property stands out from the crowd and has great photos to attract your ideal renters, guests or your target buyers.
Prices subject to change without notice. This post may contain affiliate links.
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Make Magic Happen When You Start with the Art
Do you wonder how to make the magic happen in a room, where all the colors, textures and pieces fit together just right? Maybe you’ve tried it several times and somehow the end result was off, but you couldn’t figure out why? Did you spend a lot of money buying pieces you loved but were not happy with the way everything looked together? Is there some magic formula to make it happen? Why yes, there is! Start with the art!
I may be a little biased, because I am both a designer and an artist, but it works for me! All designers have their own way of doing things and this is what I do. I start with the art and build my color palette and the rest of the room around it.
Start with the Art
So, what do I mean by art? It does not have to be what you typically think of. such as art you hang on the wall, although it could be. It could be a great rug, which is art for your floor. Maybe you have a fantastic view, which is built in art on your windows. It could be an inspiration piece such as a beautifully designed piece of furniture or a wonderful antique. Or even an architectural element such as a gorgeous fireplace could be the “art”.
Consider the colors, textures, the style and mood your art conveys. Take cues from the art to build the rest of the room to harmonize with and highlight the art. Often, I use more than one piece of “art” and work with the combination. Here is an example where I used three sources of art to build the design for this beach house.
The Primary Art- The View
In this Edesign, the main source of art is the view. The view is so beautiful and there is so much of it in the large expanse of glass, the view can not and should not be ignored. The view sets the color palette of various shades of blues, whites, and browns. It also sets the tone of a coastal style that is relaxed and peaceful. It adds texture, from soft and flowing from the sand and water, to hard and angular from the rocks.
The Secondary Art
To highlight and harmonize with the art in the view, the next pieces I looked for were the rugs, or the art for the floor. The main rug pulled in the colors from the view with the addition of a light purple and a touch of green which expanded the color palette. The colors from the rug and the view were used to determine fabric colors for the furniture and the wall color. A second rug highlighted the dining area and used mainly blues.
Supporting Art
And finally, I selected supporting art for the walls. The main art is the view of the ocean on 2 walls. I created fractal art designs of the “Sea” for the third wall and for the accent pillows. The colors and design match the ocean views and the blues in the two area rugs, tying it all together.
“Sea #2” Framed Art by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design “Sea” Framed Art by Northern Lights Hom Staging and Design “Sea #3” Framed Art by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design. Sea #2 fractal art pillow by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.
Shop This Look
The remaining pieces all harmonize with and support the “art” and of course the function of the room. Some of the products may contain affiliate links.
Get This Design as a Virtual Zoom Background
Do you like this design? Why not use it as a virtual background for your Zoom calls? Click on the picture to download it and submit a vote for me in the MYZOOMROOM contest! See more of my virtual designs in my blog article, Up Your Game and Look Great on Zoom.
Are you Ready to Create Some Magic?
Try my Service Edesign package, or my most popular design and color consultation today. Click on the pictures to learn more and purchase.
We are working, learning and entertaining from home online to stay connected. Our co-workers, parents, teachers and students now have an intimate look into our homes whether we like it or not! Or do they? Not if you have a great Zoom background!
Turn your messy bedroom or kitchen table into a beautiful office, or a beautifully decorated living room set up for a party designed by an Interior Designer!
The EDesign Tribe has created beautiful Zoom Room Backgrounds to download through a fun #MyZoomRoom Contest for it’s Edesigners. The most downloads by for a designer wins the challenge! Search through more than 100 high-quality, 4K renders created by professional designers to find the perfect virtual backgrounds for you for any occasion.
I have 9 zoom backgrounds including 3 of a beautiful, serene office, 3 of a beautifully elegant living room for a party, and 3 colorful living rooms in the forest, beach or the city. You can use code MaryAnn to get any one of my Zoom Rooms for free. A download is a vote for me in the contest and I appreciate that!
There are lots of other beautiful designs as well for you to look at. The Edesign Tribe is an amazing group of designers that are raising the bar for Edesign worldwide! There are a variety of styles for everyone!
This is also a great way to support small businesses.
Click on any of the images below to purchase them for $10 each and vote for me in the contest. Get one free with code MaryAnn.
To learn more about how to use a virtual background for zoom meetings, check out my blog article The #MyZoomRoom Challenge.
Living Room Virtual Backgrounds
Beach House- BACKGROUND #1
Learn more about this Beach House design and shop the look in my blog article, Start with the Art.
These backgrounds were created to celebrate an elegant adult birthday party, Valentines day or other special event where you might exchange presents and celebrate with adult beverages and treats. The mood is magical with beautiful lighting. Learn more about this design and shop the look in my blog article, How to Make Magic Happen in Your Home with Lighting.
Elegant Birthday Party- Background #2
Office Virtual Backgrounds
These office backgrounds were created to provide a beautiful, stress-free office setting that brings the outside in and has a feeling of spring. Find out more about how this design was created and shop this look in my blog article, How to Work from Home Stress Free.
Let’s Get Your Real Background Looking Great!
Let’s face it, we can fool them with a virtual background on Zoom, but what do people see when they come to your actual house? Whether you need to update the look of your office for a great space to work and invite clients to, or a great living room to entertain, I’ve got you covered.. Try a Full Service Edesign project. Or try my Refresh Edesign service which includes everything but a render of the design. Click on the pictures to learn more and purchase. Feel free to call if you are not sure which is best for you and we will figure it out!
Today I spent a lot of time thinking about my mom. I realized Mother’s Day is coming up this weekend and was wondering what I could do for her.
My mom is 91 and at this point in her life she is not interested in collecting more things, so I am more careful these days about what I can give her that does not add to her collection of stuff when she is trying to eliminate things. As an artist, I often make things for her….but then again, it is just more “stuff”. Sometimes I get her gift cards for her local book store because she likes to read. But, I prefer she does not go out if she doesn’t have to so will skip that idea this year. Sometimes I get her a gift of a massage…but that is out right now too.
Considering she is 91 and has some heart issues, I Facetime her every day to make sure she is OK. Today, I tried and tried and there was no answer. I was starting to panic a bit and called, and found everything was OK (she just didn’t hear the ring on her ipad). Just another reminder, life is short, times are hard right now and the most vulnerable among us are important to try to keep safe and check up on them.
I can’t be there with her on her birthday, as I am in Alaska and she is in Florida. If I could I would not risk exposing her to the risk if I were to travel. So, it is what it is.
So I finally decided on a bouquet of flowers…roses in all different colors. I know she will love them for the short time they are in bloom and the smell in her home will be heavenly.
So how about you? What are you going to do to make your Mother’s day? Why not try something new. Give her the gift of a beautiful home this year with a Mother’s Day gift card for an Interior Design or color consultation from Northern Lights Home Staging and Design. Happy Mother’s Day to all you beautiful Mothers out there!
Gift Cards
I have gift cards available for all my online design and color services which you can learn more about here. For an in-person consultation, give me a call for pricing and I will send you a gift certificate.
If you like any of my designs, I would love your vote. It’s $10 to download one background and if you do, it is equal to one vote for me. Click on the images below for the links to my designs. My designs are on page 3.
There are lots of other beautiful designs as well for you to look at. The Edesign Tribe is an amazing group of designers that are raising the bar for Edesign worldwide! There are a variety of styles for everyone!
This is also a great way to support small businesses and of course, make your background look amazing while you are working at home.
SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESS & DOWNLOAD YOUR #ZOOMROOM BACKGROUND
Need Help Designing Your Home Office?
Check out my Edesign Services so I can help your create your perfect stress free office. The example in this article is of a Full Service Edesign project. Or try my Refresh Edesign service which includes everything but a render of the design.
Struggling to concentrate while working from home? Overwhelmed by distractions or hesitant to show your workspace on Zoom calls with clients? Whether you’re making do with the kitchen table, repurposing a spare room, or seeking a fresh revamp for your usual home office, it’s time for a change.
Tips for Creating a Stress Free Office
There’s loads of advice available on creating the ideal office space, from optimizing natural light to managing cords. While you’re likely aware of the functional aspects like proper chair height or task lighting, aesthetics and ambiance are equally crucial.
It’s not just about how the office looks, but how it feels. A workspace should inspire and invigorate you. Moreover, if you’re hosting clients, the atmosphere should exude comfort and professionalism. Remember, a well-designed office is both efficient and evocative!
Stress Free Office Edesign by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design
Design Ideas to Make your Office Serene and Calm
In designing this office, my aim was to create the energy of tranquility amidst the chaos. With today’s challenges, a serene home workspace is essential. Here’s how I infused serenity into this design:
Nature’s Embrace: Merge your space with the great outdoors. Whether it’s an inspiring outdoor view, nature-themed decor, or lush plants, let nature be a prominent guest. In this layout, my “Spring” fractal energy art from my collection infuses the essence of springtime greenery. Accentuating the theme, I’ve included plant motifs, florals, and bird-inspired art.
Palette of Peace: Opt for soothing hues like blues, greens, and gentle yellows. For this room, I drew inspiration from the woodland view outside, ensuring a harmonious and calming color flow.
The wallpaper, reminiscent of water, embodies the essence of fluidity and “going with the flow.”
Illuminate Naturally: Optimize natural light by choosing rooms with ample windows, complemented by window treatments that welcome sunlight. Here, textured semi-sheer draperies maintain a light, breezy feeling.
Streamline and Store: Minimize clutter by integrating concealed storage solutions. In this setup, bookshelf cabinets effortlessly stow away files, paperwork, and other essentials, ensuring a fresh, clean and organized energy for visiting clients. Clutter can block the flow of prosperity.
Embrace Comfort: Transition from the rigid aesthetics of conventional office furniture. Choose soft, inviting materials for seating; like the plush velvet-covered chairs in this design, which offer both comfort and color. A productive and comfortable workspace can help attract financial success.
A Haven of Calm: Seek a secluded, noise-free zone or one where doors can seal off distractions. Should ambient noise or a sense of serenity be desired, incorporate a sound system for gentle melodies or calming nature sounds. The colors of nature such as blues and greens are also calming.
Harness Energy Art to Magnetize Wealth and Prosperity.
Energy art seamlessly intertwines the abstract with the tangible, channeling spiritual energies through vibrant colors, patterns, symbols, and the artist’s fervent intentions. It serves not only as a visual feast but as a beacon, attracting harmonious energies. The “Spring” piece in this design, painted in prosperous shades of green, symbolizes renewal, invigoration, and flourishing growth. Evoking the Wood Element from Chinese traditions and Feng Shui, it embodies strength, warmth, and idealism. Let such art be your muse, amplifying the energies you channel in your endeavors.
Are you trying to work at home and finding it hard to stay focused? Feeling stressed with everything going on around you? Are you uncomfortable connecting with clients online through Zoom because you don’t want them to see the background of your office or workspace?
Right now, you may not have the perfect home office. You may be working from whatever space is available such as your kitchen table. Or maybe you have converted a spare room to make an office space. Maybe you normally work at home but you are ready for a change.
Stress Free Office Edesign by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design
Shop the Look
Would you like to create this look your home? Why not try some of my beautiful fractal energy art.
Spring Fractal Art by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design Spring #2 Fractal Art by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design Spring #3 Fractal Art by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design
Need Help Designing Your Home Office?
Try my Aligned Design consultation to create the perfect office for you. Includes custom energy art to help you attract wealth and abundance.
OK, well maybe you can’t save the whole planet all at once but you can certainly save some of it by wearing eco-friendly, gorgeous clothes. and get 25% off at the same time (use code WELCOME25)! And it is a great excuse to shop and feel good about it!
Eco-friendly fashions are made from natural or recycled materials. Natural materials can include wool, silk, cotton, leather or new materials reconstituted from plant materials such as Modal or Bemberg. Recycled materials are new materials from items that would otherwise end up in landfills.
So just how gorgeous can you look while saving the planet? Here are some examples made from eco-friendly materials that use my one of a kind Fractal Art at Vida.
Natural Materials
Modal
Modal is produced by spinning reconstituted cellulose, from plants such as beech trees, pine trees, and bamboo. Lenzing Modal specifically is produced from sustainably harvested beech trees.
The Blues Modal Scarf Icefield Modeal Scarf Bohemian Dream Modal Scarf Magical Modal Scarf
Merino Wool
Merino wool is a natural fiber grown by Merino sheep. It’s thinner and softer than regular wool which makes it easy to wear next to your skin. A biodegradable fabric, merino wool disappears after about 12 months in the ground, where this fibrous protein composed of amino acids will release carbon and nutrients back into the soil.
Cashmere wool, is a fiber obtained from cashmere, pashmina and other types of goats. It has been used to make yarn, textiles and clothing for hundreds of years. The word comes from Kashmir. Cashmere is one of the most sought-after fibers in the world for scarves and sweaters because it is softer, lighter, and up to three times more insulating than sheep wool.
Twill is a lightweight fabric characterized by its diagonal weave which is nice for cool, but not cold temperatures.
The Blues Wool Poncho Wrap Forest Floor Wool Poncho Wraps First Light of Day Wool Poncho Wrap Forest Floor #4 Wool Poncho Wrap
Bemberg
Bemberg is made with regenerated fiber made from cotton linter (found around cotton seeds), a raw material that is pre-consumer waste. Bemberg is a biodegradable fiber that breaks down naturally after disposal.
Jenna 2 Cocoon Wrap Indulgant Sheer Wrap
Silk
Silk is a natural protein fiber with a shimmering appearance due to it’s triangular prism-like structure which refracts incoming light at different angles and produces different colors. Silk for textiles is generally produced by moth caterpillars.
Forest Floor#4 Sllk Scarf Leafy Silk Scarf
Recylcled Materials
Hey, you can work out and get even more beautiful while saving the planet! As long as you are home all the time, it’s hard to have an excuse (I keep telling myself that!). The following art is made from 54% recycled polyester, and 46% cotton which of course is a natural material. Cotton is a soft fiber that grows in protective case, around the seeds of the cotton plants .
Bohemian Dream #2 Women’s Crewneck Sweatshirt Magical Modern Eco Sweatshirt
This soft-knit, wash-friendly Infinity Eco scarf is produced from 96% recycled materials (96% recycled polyester, 4% spandex).
Floreo Infinity Eco Scarf
Looking Great and Saving the Planet Doesn’t Have to Stop with Your Clothes!
Edesign to Bring the Outside In by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design
Looking amazing while making eco-friendly choices that help the planet feels great. And why stop there? You can make your home look fabulous as well with eco-friendly Interior Design choices in your art, furnishings, pillows, rugs, and building materials! More to come on that in future articles! Check out my Edesign packages for help in creating your eco-friendly oasis!
Learn About Fractal Art
All of the designs above were created using my unique fractal art designs. Fractal art is digital art…in other words magic I created on my computer. Learn more about how I make fractal art in my blog article, The Magic of Fractal Art and check out my Fractal Art Gallery. Custom designs for your home decor or even fashions are available.
With our current situation, things are uncertain about how many people if any will be traveling now and through the fall. If your Bed and Breakfast or vacation rental will be open, or you are just setting it up now, there are things you can consider to design and manage your Bed and Breakfast to help keep your guests and yourself as safe as possible.
I am not offering medical or health advice, just passing on what I plan to do at my own Bed and Breakfast in case you might find it helpful. I am updating this post as new information comes out. (Updated 3-27-20).
Design and Photo by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design
Listen to the Experts
I plan to to listen to the experts and to follow all guidelines coming from the federal, state and local governments in my community. I do not get information from social media, which can be false or misleading.
Determine Your Own Safety Policies and Let Customers Know
It is important to let your guests or future customers know how you are considering their safety when staying with you. Have you thought of how you are going to keep them and yourself safe? How you might change your cleaning procedures? How you will handle it if someone shows up and they are sick or get sick while visiting? How you will design your Bed and Breakfast to adapt to the current situation?
Here are the policies that I plan to implement in my own Bed and Breakfast. I have posted this on my Facebook business page and also on my website, so guests know what to expect. You may need to adapt as new information comes out.
“Hi future B&B guests! Just wanted to let you know that your (and my) safety are my priorities. I am implementing some new safety procedures which include having you leave your shoes at the door (as always), using hand sanitizer available at the door when you arrive, providing masks for anyone that has a cold to wear, extra sanitizing wipes in the bathroom and room for your use, running an air purifier during your visit. I will be doing complete cleaning of all surfaces between guests and removing items from the room that cannot be cleaned or washed. I only have one room at my Bed and Breakfast which also eliminates your exposure to other guests. Let’s stay safe, healthy and happy by working together. Look forward to meeting you.” Mary Ann
Photo by Moyo Studios
Design Tips
While of course we want our Bed and Breakfast to be beautiful and comfortable, and to provide an experience that is perfect for our ideal customers, we may need to adapt some things during this time.
Throw Pillows –Consider items that are hard to clean after each guest such as throw pillows. If they can’t be washed after each guest, consider removing them from the room or using removable pillow covers on them that can be washed. Another option is to get Lysol spray in a nice scent such as “Linen” for use after each guest. I have heard this works and smells great. I have been unable to find it online or at the grocery store right now so for now plan to remove these items.
Bedding- Can all of your bedding including bedspreads be easily washed after each guest? If not, consider replacing them for now with something that can go in the washing machine like duvet covers.
Bed pillows- Pillows should be washed after each guest or sprayed with Lysol spray (nice smelling scents of course). If you have down pillows or types that don’t handle a lot of washing well, consider replacing them with a different type for now.
Rugs- Wash rugs that are washable. For carpeting vacuuming should suffice. Have your guests leave their shoes at the front door.
Decorative accessories- Keep in mind that you will need to clean everything in the room after each guest, so consider removing excess accessories and replacing with just a few things that are beautiful and easily cleaned.
Stock the bathroom with lots of beautiful soaps, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes. Put them in a beautiful box or basket so they look great but are easily available.
Design by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design. Photo by Kalani Woodlock Photography
Cleaning After Guests
My plan is to wear a face mask and disposable gloves when cleaning the room and to use cleaning products with bleach or disinfectants. . Wash your hands immediately after using the gloves.
Cleaning refers to the removal of germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces. Cleaning does not kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection.
Disinfecting refers to using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection.
Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces daily in household common areas (e.g. tables, hard-backed chairs, doorknobs, light switches, remotes, handles, desks, toilets, sinks) with household cleaners and EPA-registered disinfectants that are appropriate for the surface, following label instructions.
In addition to things already mentioned, some booking sites offer additional recommendations for hosts. These recommendations come from AirBnB.
1. Ventilate rooms before you clean. Allow fresh air to circulate for at least 20 minutes. If possible, leave all windows open during the entire cleaning process.
2. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after each cleaning. Use soap and water, and wash for at least 20 seconds. If that’s not possible, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Learn more about proper hand washing
3. Clean, then disinfect. Use detergent or soap and water to remove dirt, grease, dust, and germs. Once the surface is clean, spray with a disinfectant. Let it stand for a few minutes, then wipe—and if you’re not using paper towels or disposable wipes, it’s best to use a new cleaning cloth for each guest.
4.Use the right disinfectant. You don’t need any hard-to-find cleaning products—most common household disinfectants registered by the Environmental Protection Agency, as well as cleaning solutions with diluted household bleach or at least 70% alcohol, are believed to be effective against the coronavirus. Pay special attention to frequently touched surfaces, like light switches, doorknobs, remote controls, and faucet handles. (See our full list of surfaces to disinfect at the bottom of the page.)
5. Don’t forget about sofas, rugs, drapes, and other soft, porous surfaces. Carefully remove any visible dirt or grime, then clean with the appropriate cleaners indicated for use on these surfaces. If possible, machine-wash items according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Wear disposable gloves while you clean. Gloves should be thrown out after each cleaning. And make sure to wash your hands immediately after gloves are removed.
7. Don’t reuse microfiber cloths, mops, and sponges when cleaning your space for a new guest. Consider stocking up on supplies that you can throw away after each cleaning. If you prefer to clean with reusable products, make sure to machine-wash them at the highest heat setting that’s appropriate for the material.
8. Wash all linens at the highest heat setting recommended by the manufacturer. That includes bed sheets, mattress covers, hand and bath towels, kitchen towels, and blankets. Remember to wear gloves when handling dirty laundry.
9. Clean and disinfect laundry baskets and hampers. If possible, consider using a liner that is either disposable or that you can throw into the washing machine.
10. Empty the vacuum cleaner after every cleaning. You should wipe down the vacuum cleaner with disinfectant, along with appliances like your dishwasher and washing machine.
11. While restocking your supplies, take a moment to check expiration dates. And remember to never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleaning solution that can release toxic gases that are dangerous to inhale.
Design by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design. Photo by Kalani Woodlock Photography
Laundry
Will doing laundry kill the virus. From my understanding, No.
Basically, washing bedding, towels etc. will clean them, but won’t disinfect them.
Even if your washer and dryer have sanitized modes, those are unlikely to kill the virus. During the wash cycle, the agitation and detergent will likely scrub the virus off the infected clothes and flush it out with the wastewater.
If you have a cloth laundry hamper liner, toss it in the wash when you do the laundry. As mentioned above, wash laundry on the warmest setting your clothes and linens can handle, and avoid shaking dirty laundry, which can spread virus through the air.
And when you’re done handling dirty clothes and towels, be sure to wash your hands. If you aren’t using gloves when handling dirty laundry, be sure to thoroughly wash your hands afterwards.
Other Considerations
Consider whether your Bed and Breakfast normally includes common use areas such as living rooms. Mine does not but I do allow guests to use my living room if they ask at times. This might be a good time to not have common areas open to all guests for safety and to reduce the spaces that will also need deep cleaning.
I usually tell guest they can put their dirty breakfast dishes next to the sink in my kitchen after they are done eating so their dining table in their room is clear for their use. I plan to now have them leave dishes in their room, so it reduces the chance of spread of the virus into my kitchen.
I normally greet guests at the door, shake hands and then help carry all their luggage. Now I plan to stay 6 feet away and allow them to carry their own luggage.
Think about your own usual ways of doing things and how you can adapt to make things safer for both you and your guests.
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