6 Benefits of a Steam Dryer

The latest trend in high-end laundry (as well as dishwashers and ranges) is steam. While some of the benefits of steam are obvious, there are some added qualities that you may have not thought of.

1. A conventional dryer applies heated air to your wet clothes. This causes the moisture to evaporate. A steam dryer uses hot air to dry clothes, but takes it one step further with steam. The steam cycle allows the moist air to penetrate the clothes and soften the fabrics reducing wrinkles.

2. There is a wrinkle release cycle which is similar to the steam refresh cycle, but it happens at the end of the cycle and will periodically tumble the load until you take the clothes out. This helps prevent wrinkles that caused by your clothes to sitting in the dryer for a while.
3. Steam is used to sanitize items. This works great for killing germs in kid's toys, dog beds and toys, or just to keep your family safe during the flu season.

4. Steam is used to freshen up items that should not be washed. Things like shoes, hats, pillows, camping equipment, and sports equipment. This can also be used as a way to freshen a shirt up without having to do a complete load of laundry.

5. Purchasing a new laundry pair with steam technology is a little more expensive, but it can save you time. If you use steam, you won't have to iron ever again.

6. Using steam cycle can actually make your clothes last longer. With all the benefits, including refreshing your clothes without using detergents and skipping the ironing board can actually help for fabrics not break down as easily and keeping strong and less likely to rip and separate.

Steam allows you more flexibility and improve the drying quality. All of these benefits make steam the hot new feature and is a great option when selecting your new laundry set.

LG vs Samsung Laundry

If you are in search of a new washer and dryer you will probably look at a couple of different appliance brands before making a purchase. There is a lot of new technology innovations in laundry than you may realize. If you are in search of an appliance that has great technology and is stylish you will probably be wanting to look at LG and Samsung.

LG and Samsung are both Korean manufacturers that blasted into the appliance industry during the last decade. They both show no signs of slowing down. LG hit the market hard about 15 years ago and Samsung about 10. Both companies are known for their innovation, style, features, and technological advances.

Both companies are always rated highly in leading consumer publications. The LG brand attempts to be the leader in home appliance innovation. Samsung also  strives to become number one in the home appliance industry. Seeing that they have similar goals and are great rivals, makes it exciting for consumers to find the best machine. You know that no matter which company you choose, you know that you are going to get amazing technology and features like smart appliances or other advanced features.

The two companies both have very similar machines and branding strategies. The two companies were initially in high-volume stores, but switched to being independent stores  which creates an even more competitive pricing advantage for customers.  Most companies will first sell to independent retailers and then when they have processes and systems sell to larger retailers to support the volume.

A buying tip is to purchase during promotional times like holidays will save you 10% to 20% or even more.

We like both brands for different reasons. They both have similar cubic feet and interesting features. Their large capacity, over 5.0 is very impressive in both brands and often rate very well in consumer magazines. Because of the large capacity it is crucial to do site checks in your own home before delivery to see if they would fit in your basement or laundry room. They both have great advanced features like anti-vibration systems or sensor drying technology. Both brands are making their machines connected appliances meaning that you can control them directly with your smart phone to save consumers time and money.

There are some features and options than you will probably rarely use, but can be very convenient when washing delicate clothing. It's hard to believe where the technology has gone to with how specific each cycle can be.

Some time ago, LG used to be one of the statistically worst appliances to buy, but in the last decade they have vastly improved. Samsung has always been a great trusted brand. Unfortunately, they recently had a large recall, but have taken precautions to improve their production for the future. Both companies have received a lot of feedback about difficulty in getting parts in a timely manner. LG pays the lowest labor rates in the industry. Many service companies don’t want to fix these machines in warranty and risk a huge loss.

Now that you know a little more about both LG and Samsung. It's time to compare some of their models. Here are a couple of options to choose from:

Samsung Washer WF45M5500AP and Samsung Dryer DVE45M5500P

Washer Features:

• Steam Wash
• VRT Plus Technology- reduces vibration for quiet washing
• Large capacity
• Self Clean+ to keep your drum fresh and clean
• Smart Care with your smart phone

Dryer Features:

• ENERGY STAR ®  certified
• Multi-steam Technology
• Sensor Dry
• Vent Sensor
• 10 Preset Dry Cycles
• Smart Care with your smart phone

LG Washer WM9000HVA and LG Dryer DLEX9000V

Washer Features:

• TurboWash® makes your big loads require less time
• SmartThinQ® Technology to connect to your smart phone
• Steam Technology
• TubClean to keep your washer fresh
• Electronic Panel

Dryer Features:

• TurboSteam Technology
• SmartThinQ® Technology to connect to your smart phone
• NeveRust™ Stainless Steel Drum
• Elevated angled door for easy access
• Dial-A-Cycle™ drying program

Only you can decide on which washer and dryer is best for you and which brand you will ultimately go with. Let our team know if you have any questions when comparing any laundry set or other appliances.

How to Pick a New Laundry Set

In today’s modern appliances there are so many more options then years past. You have your standard top load units with an agitator wash, top load unit with the HE non agitator wash, and lastly your front load wash systems.  Each has a variation of washing clothes based on the system within.  Let us take a look at some of the pros and cons of each to better help understand what will work best for you.

Traditional Top Load Systems

 These units are smaller in size and fit in most closets and laundry rooms.  There is less vibration in these units from the way the agitator is set in the unit. There is much less work in loading and unloading due to overall capacity of these units.  There can be shorter wash cycles based on more water consumption and the way the agitator pulls the clothes through the tub.  However, they may struggle with larger heavier items and have a much more limited capacity than all other types.

High Efficiency Top Load Systems

These units are larger overall with capacity and more wash cycles such as steam and sanitize. This is a better option for washing larger items like blankets and comforters. There is more energy saving from reduced water consumption and a higher RMP on the spin cycle leaving clothes dryer. On the other side, all though there is more capacity from not having an agitator, these units are only allowed to use X gallons of water so you have to gauge how much you load and what cycle setting works best for your needs.

Front Load Systems

These units will have the largest capacity on the market and the usability is greater due to the gravity system which makes all the clothes rotate through the water. The ability to stack is also another great benefit when size restrictions apply. Most units will have added cycles and steam features for expanded duties. Again like the HE top load system they also are regulated on the amount of water they can use with the same high speed spin cycles, making you save money, water, and is better for the environment. The down sides are that there are vibrations and there can become an odor in the units from water getting trapped inside the door gasket.  There are some great new cleaning products to minimize that.

All in all there is no true right answer on what works best for you.  Before you purchase, you should really qualify the units by size, features, and benefits and pick the one that is best suited for your needs!

Time-Saving Holiday Cleaning Tips

The holidays are a time for family and friends coming together to celebrate the season and enjoy each other’s company. Unfortunately, this also means the holidays can be an often-hectic parade of parties, family dinners, and events that leave you with absolutely no spare time. How do you check all the items off your holiday to-do list and still keep your home presentable for all the guests (both expected and unexpected!) that may be popping by to share a cup of cheer? Follow these quick and easy housecleaning tips to keep your home in tip-top shape no matter what the holiday season throws your way.

Clean in Advance- This may seem like a no-brainier, but it’s worth mentioning that a little advance planning can save you a world of stress on the actual day of a party or dinner in your home. About a week prior to your holiday event, tackle the chores that can be done ahead of time, such as spot-cleaning any stains on your upholstery or walls, steam-cleaning the rugs or dusting the blinds. This leaves you free to do only a few last-minute housekeeping duties on the day of your party, and keeps the house looking tidy in the event of unexpected guests in the meantime.

Follow the 5-Minute Rule- If time has gotten away from you, see how much you can do in 5 minutes. Look at your house through the eyes of your visitors- chances are they aren’t taking in the minor details or running over every surface of your home with a white glove. (If they are, it’s time to find new friends!) Use your 5-minute window to go over surfaces with glass cleaner or furniture polish and a soft cloth, run the vacuum in the major traffic areas such as the living room rug, and wipe down your kitchen countertops. Also take a moment to make sure your bathrooms are clean and presentable with Clorox Wipes and a quick swish of the toilet brush. Boom! Instant clean house!

Grab a Laundry Basket- If it’s getting down to crunch time and you haven’t had any time to pre-clean and organize, don’t worry- just grab a laundry basket and make a general sweep of the areas of the house where guests are likely to congregate. Throw everything that is cluttering up your surfaces into the laundry basket, then stash it in a closet to deal with later. Sure, it’s cheating, but it will maximize your time, cut down on stress, and give you more time to spend with family and friends. Sounds like a win!

At the end of the day, remember that your loved ones are there to see you, not your sparkling clean house. Wishing you a stress-free holiday season!

Repurpose Household Items for an Organized Home

If you are constantly trying to break the clutter cycle in your home and wish to have a more organized space, the answer might be right in front of your eyes. Household items that you have and use every day can be repurposed in creative ways to make your house a more orderly, clutter-free place without spending a penny! Here are a few ideas for taking what you have and transforming it into what you need to get your home in shape.

Ladders- If you have a ladder taking up space in your storage shed or garage, why not put it to work in another capacity? A small, 4- to 5-rung stepladder makes an ideal drying rack for your laundry room. If you have the type of ladder that can be hung from the ceiling, you can mount it sideways to use as a great place to hang freshly-laundered shirts, blouses and pants by their hangers.

Binder clips- If your home office is overrun with binder clips, you might find yourself wondering what on earth to do with them. Before you pitch them, consider the possibilities- binder clips can be extremely useful cord bundlers to organize your entertainment center or computer area’s mishmash of cords and keep them from becoming tangled and unsightly. Binder clips can also be useful in the kitchen as chip and pretzel bag clips, keeping your bagged items as fresh as the day you bought them!

Dish rack- Does your little one love to color but hate to clean up? A standard dish-drying rack can be repurposed as an ideal art supply caddy for children. The recessed area for holding silverware is a great place to store crayons or markers, and the grated areas for holding glassware are a nice place to set coloring books or extra drawing paper.

Picture frames- If you have a beautiful picture frame that is missing its glass or backing, don’t toss it- transform it! By simply screwing hooks into the top of the frame, you can create a picture-perfect place to hang and display your jewelry without worrying about your necklaces or bracelets tangling around each other.

Have any fun repurposing tips from your own household? Share them with us in the comments section!

Dorm Room Checklist: Essentials for College

It’s that time of year again- millions of families are getting their young adult children ready to embark on their journey to college. It’s an exciting time for students and parents alike as the kids get ready to fly the nest. Make sure your college student has everything he or she will need to make himself or herself feel at home with this handy checklist for dorm room supplies.

Kitchenware- Due to safety regulations in place in most of the college dorms across the country, items like hot plates and toaster ovens aren’t always allowed, but that doesn’t mean your child won’t need some basic kitchen supplies in the dorm room for quick study snacks. Make sure to add these basics to your school shopping list:

• Non-breakable, microwavable dishes- 2 large plates, 2 small plates and 2 bowls
• Flatware- at least 4 forks, spoons, and knives
• 2 plastic water bottles, reusable
• Water pitcher
• Regulation-size dorm fridge, if allowed
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula/turner
• Liquid dish soap
• Dish towels
• Dish scrubber
• Can opener
• Pizza cutter

Bedding- Since dorm beds are a little differently-sized than standard twin-size beds, make sure all bedding specifically says it is sized for dorm mattresses before purchasing.
• 2 sheet sets
• Comforter or duvet with cover
• Mattress pad
• Pillows (both bed and throw pillows)
• Throw blanket
• Bedbug-resistant mattress cover

Cleaning Products- Help your college kid keep his or her dorm room clean by sending them off with the right cleaning supplies to tackle basic chores.
• Glass cleaner
• Multipurpose cleaner (make sure it also cleans electronics safely)
• Microfiber cloths
• Dusting tool (such as Swiffer duster)
• Handheld vacuum cleaner

Laundry Essentials- Help your student tackle laundry effectively so they don’t start bringing it back to your house on breaks!
• Pop-up space-saving hamper
• Drying rack
• Detergent, bleach and fabric softener
• Emergency sewing kit
• Iron with emergency shut-off feature
• Ironing board
• Delicate clothing wash bag
• Lint rollers
• Approximately 4 dozen hangers


What other items are on your necessity list for dorm rooms?

Organize Your Laundry Room! Quick and Easy Tips

It’s a room that people don’t often think about, but can be absolutely essential to the well-being of your entire home and family. We’re talking, of course, about your laundry room. Though it may seem like just a tiny room which houses your washer/dryer combo, a laundry room can be so much more. With a little organization and a few creative ideas, you can transform your laundry room into an organized, efficient little powerhouse of a room that you’ll be excited to show off to guests. Read on for some great laundry room hacks!

·         Create a cute lint depository. You know those little boxes that real estate agents put flyers in next to a house’s “for sale” sign? Well, they actually make great little places to save your dryer lint- they can hang right on the wall next to your dryer, and you can let your creativity run wild and decorate them any way you like! Since dryer lint is actually an excellent fire starter for a campfire or charcoal grill, it’s worth hanging onto, and now you’ll have a nice-looking place to do that!

·         Wall-mount hooks for your ironing board. You never know when you’re going to need to iron something, but where do you stash that ironing board until you need it again? With a couple of well-placed designer hooks from the hardware store or online, you can create a cute out-of-the-way space to hang up your board.

·         Put together a “stain station.” It’s all well and good to read handy laundry tips on blogs like this one, but most of us promptly forget how to get a certain type of stain out of clothing when the need actually arises. By putting together an attractive little kit featuring all the things you may need to get a stain out, as well as a little cheat sheet for which kinds of products remove which kinds of stains, you can have the knowledge and tools you need at hand.

·         Use designated hampers to sort clothes ahead of time. Three attractive bins marked “whites,” “colors” and “darks” can help you to pre-sort your laundry so you don’t have any red sock/white towel mishaps in your future.

What are your favorite ways to keep your laundry room looking organized? Be sure to let us know in the comments section.

How to Extend the Life of Your Appliances

When it comes to household appliances, a little preventive maintenance can go a long way. In order to get the most mileage out of your appliances, here are some cleaning and repair tips to help keep everything running smoothly.

Refrigerator- A refrigerator is one of those appliances we never really think about until they stop working. While the average lifespan of a refrigerator is 13 years, they can break down long before that without proper care.

What Should I Do? Once every 3 months, set a recurring reminder on your smartphone or computer to clean the fridge coils. Use a long-handled refrigerator coil brush ($8.98, Amazon.com) to clean around the condenser coils located underneath the fridge. You can also use the crevice tool of your vacuum cleaner if you prefer. This will remove the buildup of dust, crumbs and pet hair that accumulates. Make sure to wipe down the door seals and gaskets that keep the fridge door securely shut at this time; even small amounts of gunk can cut down on the fridge’s effectiveness to keep the cold air inside.

If your fridge model produces filtered water from a dispenser, it is recommended that you replace the filter once every 12 months. This will keep water tasting fresh.

Range- While a range typically has a 13-year lifespan, taking good care of it can boost its performance and cut down on costly repairs, giving it a longer life.

What Should I Do? For gas ranges or electric ranges with burner plates, soak the burner caps and rings in soapy water to remove residue, and use a thin sewing needle or paper clip to poke through the little holes where the gas comes through the burner to clear them of any debris.

If you have a smoothtop range, make sure to wipe down the glass cooktop regularly, using a damp rag or, in the case of dried-on food, a non-abrasive cleanser specially formulated for glass cooktops. Smoothtop ranges generally require less maintenance than their gas counterparts, but leaving spills behind can cause pitting or damage to the surface if not cleaned regularly.

Dishwasher- A dishwasher has an average lifespan of 9 years, but many dishwashers find themselves in need of repair or replacement long before that if they are not cared for properly.

What Should I Do? A thorough wipe-down of the dishwasher door gaskets, doorframe and hinge will keep the seal nice and tight, avoiding common problems like water leaks during wash cycles. Also, if your model has a removable filter, it is a good idea to rinse it out regularly to avoid nasty buildup which can affect performance, not to mention make your dishwasher stink.

Microwave Oven- With an average 9-year lifespan, the microwave is an appliance that doesn’t seem to need much maintenance at first glance, but can definitely benefit from a few performance-boosting, life-extending tips.

What Should I Do? Cleaning the interior of the microwave regularly with a damp cloth can help prevent buildup of food particles, keeping the microwave in good working order. If you have an over-the-range type microwave, make sure to clean the grease filters from the vent hood once a month by removing them, soaking them in soapy water, rinsing and drying before replacing. Some vent hoods have charcoal filters, which need to be replaced every 6-12 months.

Garbage Disposal- Though we typically don’t think of our garbage disposals when we think of our household appliances, they are definitely a very important part of our kitchen, and can be quite costly to repair. The average lifespan of a garbage disposal is 12 years.

What Should I Do? To keep the blades sharp and free of buildup, grind up a couple of ice cubes periodically. To reduce odors, throw lemon or orange peels in there and grind them up at least once a month. Never put large quantities of rice, noodles or grease down your disposal, and always use cold water when running the disposal, and for a couple minutes afterward, so fat and grease deposits get washed away.

Washing Machine- With an average lifespan of 10 years, your washing machine can last you a long time if you pay attention to it and take good care of it.

What Should I Do? Make sure your washing machine is hooked up to stainless steel mesh drain hoses, which last much longer than rubber ones. Also, wipe out the detergent dispenser drawer regularly to ensure that the detergent flows out as intended without any clogging or buildup. If your machine is a front-loader, wipe the door gasket seal dry after each use, which will prevent odor-causing mold and mildew from forming.

Dryer- Your clothes dryer is made to last 13 years on average, and the importance of keeping it clean is essential for not only extending the life of the appliance, but for basic safety as well.

What Should I Do? Clean out the dryer lint filter before or after every single load without exception. Once a year, use the same long-handled brush you use to clean your refrigerator coils to clean out your dryer vent, or use the crevice tool on your vacuum cleaner. If you are unable or unwilling to clean out the dryer vent yourself, you can hire a pro to take care of it, but beware- prices generally start around $200. Not only does lint buildup reduce the efficiency of your dryer, but it can also cause the dryer to overheat and catch on fire.

Vacuum Cleaner- On a personal note, this is the appliance that breaks down most often for me. The average lifespan of a vacuum varies based on the model, but I find myself having to buy a new vacuum once every 1-2 years. That can’t be right!

What Should I Do? Not many models have vacuum bags anymore, but if you are in possession of a bag model, the bag should be changed once a month, more frequently if you have a pet. You should clean or replace your filters once every 6 months (many models can be rinsed clean), and every 8 weeks the HEPA filter should be cleaned out as well. This will improve the airflow for maximum performance. Once a year, or sooner if the brush roll is making a vibrating noise, belts should be replaced. If your belts are too loose, they can make the brush roll turn too slowly, causing less dirt to be captured. Too-tight belts can cause excessive wear on the motor, though, so make sure they fit just right!