When you store produce in the fridge, separate fruit and vegetables into different drawers and set the humidity control appropriately.

• Fruit = Low Humidity
• Veggies = High Humidity 

5 “Good to Know” Produce Tips

1. Wash your fresh produce right before you use it, not before you store it.
2. Don’t store fruit and veggies together. Fruits that give off high levels of ethylene (the ripening agent) can prematurely ripen and spoil surrounding vegetables.
3. Don’t cram vegetables together—the closer they are, the faster they will rot. Let them breath!
4. Onions and potatoes—both don’t require refrigeration, but they shouldn’t be stored together. The onion will make your potatoes sprout.
5. If you buy fresh herbs with the roots still attached (like from a farmers’ market), leave the bunch of herbs on the countertop in a glass filled with water.

​Source:  Swanson Vitamins Newsletter, August, 2017

Over 50% of homes have garbage disposals.  There are many myths associated with them.   For one, garbage disposals are not bad for the environment.  In fact, even though they use water and electric to flush away food scraps, it is better to grind up the scraps rather them adding to a landfill.

​It is actually better to use cold water when running your disposal.  The cold water keeps the solid fats moving through the pipes.

​There are no blades in a garbage disposal.  Instead they contain metal impellers, so there is no need to use ice to sharpen "blades."

​It would be better to use baking soda and a water solution to clean your garbage disposal than using vinegar or lemons.  The acidity can damage the metal.  When grinding something acidic use plenty of water.

​Visit the Moen website to learn of their various models based on features such as horse power, warranty, rpm's, stainless steel parts, motor size, SoundShield, etc.

​                                                 #dreamlandinteriors  #garbage disposal  #Moen

​According to a recent issue of Architectural Digest, the design features that are trending presently are white kitchen cabinets, subway tile, quartz countertops, hardwood floors, bay windows, gas stoves, and soaking tubs.  Let Dreamland Interiors, Inc. help you with your home updates and designs for a pleasing transformation.  Visit our webpage to view some of our completed projects.

#dreamlandinteriors  #subwaytile
​#kitchencabinets, #hardwoodfloors, 

When shopping for a washing machine, the size of the laundry space or room is your first consideration.  Cost will probably be your second criteria.  High Efficiency (HE) top loaders cost $600-$1400.  Traditional top loaders cost $400 and up.  HE front loaders cost $600-$1200.  It may be helpful to know that front loaders' longevity is usually 11 years while a traditional top loader can last for up to 14 years.

​Some of the features of a front loader are:
​-If on a platform, the machine sits taller so it is easier to load.
​-Controls are placed on the front of the machine at eye-level.
​-Does not have an agitator.  
-More energy efficient.
-Great tub capacity.
​-Steam feature optional.
-Longer cycles are actually a negative.
-Spins faster allowing for shorter drying time.
-More mechanical failures.
​-Heats water in the washer thus not drawing from the home hot water tank.
-More expensive.
​-Interior prone to molding from dampness and drainage issues.
​-Newer models after 2009 have built-in self-cleaning cycle to prevent molding.

​Some of the features of a top loader are:
-Known as water hogs.
-Easy to load but harder to unload.
​-Newer top loaders have controls in front instead of on the back panel.
​-HE top loaders now available that have improved efficiency.
​-Agitator takes up much space and can tangle clothes or attachments on clothes.
​-Agitators clean the clothes better but are harder on the fabrics.

Some features of new HE top loaders are:
​-Flips clothes instead of agitating.
-Spins clothes through stream of water.
-Rinses clothes with high pressure spray.
​
​HE washers use less water and detergent.  Look for machines that carry an Energy Star rating because they use 35% less energy and water.  Another good rating to look for is the CEE Tier III rating.

​If you want a large tub capacity for washing bedspreads, etc., check out the Samsung WA9000 with a 5.6 cu. ft. capacity.  Other recommendations available on new model washers are listed below.

• Delay Start Option (to run the machine during off peak hours)
• Internal Water Heater
• Large Capacity 4.3–5.6 cu. ft.
• High Spin Speed, 1000 rpm or higher
• Stainless Steel Drum
• Self-Clean Cycle
• Cold Wash Option
• Quick Wash Option
• Automatic Water Level Adjustment
• No Central Agitator

#dreamlandinteriors  #washers  #Samsung  #HEappliances  #EnergyStar  #CEEIIITier

Candles can set a festive, romantic, or dramatic mood.  Here are some ideas from Southern Living.  I really like the first photo--candle cake--for an adult birthday party.

Home Depot has an article on their website about what to consider when buying pavers for the patio, porch, driveway, etc.   Pavers are made of different materials such as natural stone, brick, and concrete. They can be bought in different finishes and textures. 

First identify  the location of the pavers since this will determine what type of material you need and can afford.   They are often used in pathways, as stepping stones, on walkways, on patios, and driveways.   Decorative stones are more expensive and are usually used as stepping stones.  Brick pavers are usually used on driveways, paths, and edging.  Limestone pavers are the strongest.

​A color has to be chosen usually with the color of the house in mind.  Colors range from earth tones, terracotta, browns, rusts, golds, whites, etc.  Often a blend of colors is chosen or a pattern is planned out before the purchase.  Patterns such as herringbone, basket-weave, circular, or fan designs are popular.

​Additional tips:  Buy extra pavers for pattern matching or replacement of broken pieces.  Paths are generally at least 3 feet wide.  Clean the pavers with a mix of 10 parts water with one part vinegar.  

After installation, it is advised that the project be sealed to add to their longevity and to cut down on staining.   

​                                   #dreamlandinteriors  #pavers  #HomeDepot  #brickpavers  #fieldstone 
​                                                          #naturalstonepavers #concretepavers

Some of my customers are pleased with the two-tone barn door look.

#dreamlandinteriors  #barndoors

#dreamlandinteriors  #tile  #tileniche  #lighting  #bathtub

Thermador Appliances are my favorite luxury brand.  In 2017, they have new innovations in refrigeration, cooking, coffee makers, and dishwashers.  I like the fact that the refrigerator motors are concealed and that the 40 inch and 60 inch ovens include a steaming feature.

Thermador has introduced the Liberty Induction Cooktop, a built-in fully automatic coffee machine, and an enhanced Star-Sapphire dishwasher.
​Their refrigerators are noted for their expanded refrigeration, freezer, and wine columns.  Some of their refrigeration models include the Open Door Assist feature and handle-less entry and combo drawers. 

The Liberty Induction Cooktop is equipped with HeatShift and MoveMode that allows the cook to reposition cookware during meal preparation.

The fully automatic built-in coffee maker features a main container for whole beans, a smaller container for coffee grounds, and a stainless steel milk container that can be removed and stored in the refrigerator.

The Star Sapphire Dishwasher offers the industry's fastest speed cycle--Star Speed-20 minutes.  Also a third rack is available.  Visit www.thermador.com for more information.  

​#dreamlandinteriors  #appliances  #thermador  #coffeemaker  #refrigerator  #oven  #dishwasher  #stove