KFDA - Home & Garden

3 projects to do for your dad on Father's Day

Sat, 8 Jun 2013 10:00:00 EDT

Don't buy the tie! There's no need for your standard go-to Dad's Day gift this year. Try one of these simple projects as a Father's Day present.

Red, white, and blue porch decor inspiration

Fri, 7 Jun 2013 17:19:00 EDT

July 4th is coming, and here are some great patriotic decor ideas for you. Fortunately, red, white, and blue look fantastic together.

Best cheap tips for keeping your house cool

Tue, 28 May 2013 17:28:00 EDT

The dog days of summer are coming, and in some parts of the U.S. of A., they have already arrived. Here are some tips to help your house stay cool in the heat.

Memorial Day games & activities for kids

Sun, 26 May 2013 10:00:00 EDT

Here are some active, outdoor games that are fun but simple to play; get ready to create summertime memories.

5 germ hot spots you aren't cleaning

Fri, 24 May 2013 10:00:00 EDT

Here are five germ hot spots you're probably missing when you clean, and the most powerful tools to add to your cleaning arsenal today.

6 things you think add value to your home - but really don't

Fri, 17 May 2013 17:13:00 EDT

Certain projects, such as adding a well thought-out family room can be a wise investment, as they do add to the value of the home. Other projects, however, allow little opportunity to recover the costs when it's time to sell.

Summer gardening guide

Sun, 5 May 2013 10:00:00 EDT

Summer is the time to freshen up the garden, pay careful attention to maintenance and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

7 Mother's Day gifts for DIY moms

Sat, 4 May 2013 10:00:00 EDT

If you or your mom are DIY enthusiasts, here are seven Mother's Day gift ideas that she'll love.

10 tips for organizing closets

Sun, 14 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EDT

If your average, bummer of a closet is ready for an overhaul, use these cheap and easy tips to whip it into shape.

10 kitchen gadgets you probably don't need

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 17:13:00 EDT

There are many kitchen gadgets out there that claim to make your life simpler, but there might already be something in your kitchen that can do the same job.

Tips for better green cleaning

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 17:31:00 EDT

Green cleaning is so popular. Every blogger is posting their "totally ah-may-zinggg" homemade cleaner recipe that involves three magical ingredients.

Three new ways to decorate Easter eggs

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 09:44:00 EDT

Eggs have really come a long way, from shells that contain albumen and yolk, to a blog-worthy craft.

Expert tips for spring-cleaning your bathroom

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 15:33:00 EDT

Although spring-cleaning may have become a thing of the past, germs haven't.

St. Patrick’s Day history, traditions & facts

Sat, 16 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EDT

It's the day when being Irish or even just attempting a lyrical brogue will make you an honorary member of the Emerald Isle.

Household uses for rubbing alcohol

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 16:16:00 EST

Although it's not perfect for every cleaning job, rubbing alcohol is a fairly cheap and relatively environmentally-friendly solution to some tough cleaning challenges.

Turn your bedroom into a getaway

Sat, 2 Feb 2013 14:00:00 EST

Your master bedroom should be your oasis from the rest of the world. And yet it's often the last room in the house to get a good makeover.

De-clutter your life -- and your mind

Sun, 13 Jan 2013 14:00:00 EST

Even for those who are not hoarders, holding on to large quantities of unnecessary stuff can raise anxiety and lower well-being.

The most dangerous spiders in your home

Sun, 13 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST

Venomous spiders can be dangerous to those who spend time outside. These spiders occasionally find their way inside home and can present a serious risk.

Are electric blankets safe?

Sat, 5 Jan 2013 14:00:00 EST

Most safety problems related to use of an electric blanket are preventable.

Top 5 ways to reuse a CD spindle

Wed, 2 Jan 2013 17:19:00 EST

Being somewhat of a repurposing connoisseur myself, I got to thinking about those CD spindles, and wondering how they might be re-applied in our lives.

Unique gift wrapping ideas

Sun, 23 Dec 2012 14:00:00 EST

There's a wide world of ways to wrap a present.

Vintage Christmas decorations

Sat, 15 Dec 2012 14:00:00 EST

Holiday decorating goes through fashions and styles, and the tree you remember as if it was yesterday has become today's vintage look.

BPA: Is there danger in your kitchen?

Sun, 2 Dec 2012 14:00:00 EST

The toxic chemical BPA could be contaminating your containers, cans and more. Here's what to look out for.

Toxic chemicals in many couches sold in U.S.

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 16:57:00 EST

Many couches sold in the United States contain toxic chemical flame retardants that have been linked with cancer, hormone disruption and neurological damage, according to a new study.

Fun election-themed foods

Mon, 5 Nov 2012 17:07:00 EST

This election year, try looking at the first Tuesday in November as what it truly is – the Super Bowl of politics!

Decorating on a dime

Sat, 20 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EDT

5 ways to furnish your home without going broke.

Living room clutter busters

Sun, 7 Oct 2012 14:00:00 EDT

You can transform this room from the messiest area in your home to the organized, relaxing family haven you desire.

10 air purifying plants for the home

Sat, 15 Sep 2012 14:00:00 EDT

It turns out that houseplants aren't just a great way to spruce up a room, they can freshen the air in a room as well.

What is steampunk home decor?

Sun, 9 Sep 2012 14:00:00 EDT

Part history and part imagination, steampunk creates a futuristic "past that never was," combining classic antique clocks, gears, fabric and accessories with modern, edgy touches.

This election year, why not throw a political party of your own

Mon, 5 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST

This election year Maker's Mark is backing The Cocktail Party, but if don't want to march under their banner here are a few ways you can throw a political party of your own.

What to know before you hang a flat screen TV

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 14:42:00 EDT

If you've ever been to Graceland, you've undoubtedly seen the "TV room" with its three televisions built into the wall.

A new twist on the Labor Day barbecue

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 17:22:00 EDT

Think Labor Day weekend is just another excuse for a barbecue? Try celebrating the last days of summer in an all new way.

24 surprising uses for coffee grounds

Sun, 5 Aug 2012 10:00:00 EDT

Coffee grounds have numerous uses around the house and in the garden. You can even use them in your beauty routine.

Safe composting tips for people with food allergies

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 13:10:00 EDT

Composting food waste is safe for people with food allergies if they take some basic precautions, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

8 ways to make your home healthier

Sun, 15 Jul 2012 14:00:00 EDT

Your house's air quality and the products you use every day can all have an effect on your health and that of your family. Here's how to make your home a safer and healthier place to live.

Bluetooth device and iOS app ensure you never lose your keys again

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 17:27:00 EDT

The Kickstarter project vows that you'll never misplace your keys again by using a Bluetooth 4.0 device and iOS app to locate the lost item.

How to plan a monster garage sale

Sat, 16 Jun 2012 14:00:00 EDT

A garage sale is a great way to bring in some extra cash, clear out clutter and do some good for the environment.

The most dangerous animals in your backyard

Sat, 16 Jun 2012 10:00:00 EDT

Your backyard should be a safe haven for your family and pets, but there may be dangers hiding under your bushes.

Five essential tips for designing your kitchen

Fri, 18 May 2012 15:58:00 EDT

It's the little things that warm a space most, not the appliances or the layout or the material of the countertops.

How to build a tire swing

Sun, 6 May 2012 10:01:00 EDT

A tire swing hanging from a large tree is a tradition that is as American as hot dogs and apple pie. Here's how you can make your own.

10 weird plants from around the world

Thu, 3 May 2012 16:23:00 EDT

Flowers with unexpected animal features? Masters of camouflage? Here are 10 weird and wacky plants that can be grown by any gardener.

Hidden household cat poisons

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 14:26:00 EDT

While you assume your home is a safe and happy place, you may have some surprising things around that are toxic, and even fatal, to your cat.

Spring cocktail party ideas & tips

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EDT

Spring cocktail parties are the perfect way to welcome the new season, enjoy the warming weather and take advantage of the newly blooming landscape.

Backyard barbecue ideas for Memorial Day

Sat, 26 May 2012 10:01:00 EDT

Hosting a backyard BBQ for Memorial Day is a great way to enjoy the warming weather, celebrate a time-honored tradition with friends and family, and try your hand at working that new grill.

Spring-cleaning special: Allergy-proof your house

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 15:44:00 EDT

These simple steps will help you breathe easier at home in no time.

Junk drawer no more

Fri, 6 Apr 2012 12:01:00 EDT

This spring, make a commitment to organize your junk drawer -- or drawers!

How to repair a wooden dining table

Tue, 3 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EDT

Repairing a worn or damaged wood dining table is an easy weekend project that will have you entertaining in style.

Guide to buying a kitchen faucet

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 14:43:00 EDT

With a flick of the wrist or a gentle touch, it enables food preparation, cleanliness or a drink of water in your home's busiest multipurpose room.

How to weather-strip your front door

Fri, 9 Mar 2012 15:05:00 EST

If you feel a draft around your front door, chances are you're wasting energy and throwing money away through leaks around the perimeter.

How to decorate with apothecary jars

Fri, 2 Mar 2012 14:32:00 EST

There are apothecary jars for every taste and budget, so start exploring the possibilities.

Need to hang your flat screen TV?

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 12:59:00 EST

Wall-mounting a flat screen plasma, LCD or LED television is a smart and aesthetic way to update a room and make TV viewing more comfortable.

7 questions to answer before buying a new vanity

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:22:00 EST

Simplify your search for the perfect bathroom vanity by first considering these options.

How to mount a mirror in your bathroom

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 07:01:00 EST

What's the best way to hang a bathroom mirror? The answer depends on what kind of bathroom mirror you'd like to mount, as mirrors are either framed or frameless.

Plan annual household purchases to save money

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:54:00 EST

Looking ahead, knowing when to buy can make a difference to the bottom.

What are the best scented candles for every room?

Tue, 7 Feb 2012 12:33:00 EST

Candles quickly create a soft, romantic ambiance when placed in any room, and can be used throughout the house as both décor and lighting.

Winter bedroom design ideas

Tue, 7 Feb 2012 12:21:00 EST

If you're feeling inspired by snow covered mountains, luxurious furs and rural woods, create a warm and comfortable winter bedroom design.

The essential winter cleaning checklist

Tue, 7 Feb 2012 12:19:00 EST

Use this checklist to make sure your home is ready for cozy nights and cooler temperatures.

Outdoor winter party ideas

Tue, 7 Feb 2012 09:55:00 EST

If you have great weather all year long, or even if you don't, try throwing an outdoor winter party this year, and celebrate the season surrounded by nature. With the right decorations, lighting and accessories, your winter party is sure to rival the best of summer BBQs.

Winter pruning guide: Why you should prune each year

Tue, 7 Feb 2012 09:55:00 EST

Pruning during the winter months can help improve your plants shape, form and growth. Think of winter pruning as preventive maintenance.

Easy kitchen updates under $100

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 09:20:00 EST

If your kitchen is sorely in need of a facelift and your budget is next to nothing, don't be discouraged. Your kitchen can get a whole new look for under $100.

8 space-saving tips for a compact kitchen

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:21:00 EST

By equipping yourself with an environment conducive to neatness and order, you will get into the habit of keeping your space clean. Here are a few tips to help you maximize space in your kitchen.

How to organize your garage

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 13:37:00 EST

Are you asking yourself "How did my garage get this way?" Here are some specific steps to help you organize your garage.

Everything you need to know about warranties

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 09:26:00 EST

Warranties are often considered when purchasing gifts. When should you purchase warranties and for what?

Tips to protect your home from severe weather

Fri, 4 Nov 2011 15:52:00 EDT

When people think of winterizing their homes, most often their heating bills spring to mind - along with insulation and weather stripping. The winter months bring not only high energy bills, but also an increased chance of certain kinds of damage to your home and its contents.

Guide to buying a dishwasher

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EDT

Today's dishwashers come with a host of features and upgrades. Click through for tips on waht to consider when you're shopping for a new model.

Guide to buying a high-efficiency washing machine

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 13:59:00 EDT

If you're in the market to buy a high-efficiency (HE) washer, join the crowd. Here are nine things to consider before you buy a HE washer.

Guide to buying a range

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 13:57:00 EDT

Whether you cook frequently or just once in a while, every kitchen needs a range; it's a necessity and a focal point in the heart of every home. But with so many types and models to choose from, how do you know which range to select?

How to repair drywall holes so they really dont show

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 17:28:00 EDT

There’s nothing quite so unsightly – and embarrassing – as a gaping hole marring the otherwise-perfect walls of your home. Drywall damage is uninviting and obvious; it just sticks out like a sore...

Guidelines for building a bouldering wall at home

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 15:43:00 EDT

Building a bouldering wall at home requires planning, possible engineering help, power tools, and a good friend or two to help (or a good carpenter). Planning: You'll need to find a space that is...

Flag Day is June 14: Brush up on flag etiquette

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 14:09:00 EDT

A sometimes forgotten holiday, Flag Day is June 14th.

20 plants that will take over your yard

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 16:45:00 EDT

Some of the following plants are sold as ornamental plants. Some of them are native to one region, but are considered invasive in others. Some are just totally invasive imports. For a full discussion...

11 ways to open a stuck jar lid

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 15:45:00 EDT

All you want is a kosher dill. You can see it, trapped within its glassy cave, taunting you with crisp, pickly goodness. And you can’t get the lid off. You’ve tried all the traditional tactics;...

16 ways to open a beer bottle without a bottle opener

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 17:17:00 EDT

It's summer. A nice cold one would go down awfully well, but where's that bottle opener gotten to?

How to make household disinfectants with no bleach

Sat, 8 Jun 2013 17:43:00 EDT

I’m torn. I am a hippie at heart. I was raised by hippies. I grew up weaving yarn on a loom and dancing to drum circles. Some people are born with a silver spoon? I was born with a burning sage. You...

Why are my houseplants turning brown?

Sat, 8 Jun 2013 15:43:00 EDT

I adore houseplants, and my general decorating aesthetic is somewhere between “rainforest” and “greenhouse”. In other words, my attitude towards living green things is: the more the merrier. Which is...

Repurpose & recycle: cool uses for old silverware

Sat, 8 Jun 2013 12:43:00 EDT

Vintage silverware, or any old silverware, is a gift! You can use it to create so many whimsical decor objects for the house or for the garden. Are you ready to try being an amateur metal-smith?...

Financial considerations for college grads moving home

Thu, 2 May 2013 09:21:00 EDT

Tips for making the transition work for everyone.

Mortgage and home tax deductions

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 10:55:00 EST

What federal tax deductions can you take for a mortgage and other home ownership expenses?

The special rules for condo mortgages

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 10:05:00 EST

A condominium offers many of the advantages of home ownership with fewer of the hassles. That is, unless you're talking about getting a mortgage for one.

Are home equity loans coming back?

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 10:05:00 EST

Wondering if you can qualify for a home equity loan? Recent indications suggest that second mortgages are on the rebound, but that doesn't necessarily mean they're easier to get.

Last chance to refinance?

Tue, 5 Feb 2013 10:05:00 EST

Mortgage rates have been on the rise. Is this your last, best chance to refinance and save money with a super low rate?

Why you might consider an adjustable-rate mortgage

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 10:15:00 EST

You don't hear much about adjustable-rate mortgages these days, but for the right kind of borrower, they're still an attractive option.

5 questions for potential homebuyers

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 10:42:00 EST

With housing prices and mortgage rates as low as they are, many are tempted to take the plunge and become first-time homeowners. But how do you know if you're truly ready?

What the new mortgage rules mean for borrowers

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 10:19:00 EST

The CFPB has rolled out long-awaited new rules for residential mortgages. So what will be the impact on mortgage borrowers?

New qualified mortgage rules released

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 10:44:00 EST

Long-awaited "qualified mortgage" rules have been issued by the CFPB, setting forth guidelines to protect borrowers from predatory lending.