However, not everyone likes having all of their belongings out in the open. In addition, open shelves have to be meticulously cleaned at least once a week, which can be a hassle for those with jobs and other commitments.

Luckily, there are easy ways to cover shelves without doors. We’ll go over each option below, and yours is just to pick the one that suits you the most.

1. Shelf Curtains

We’ll start with the most affordable option first. Although most people think that curtains are only reserved for doors and windows, they can also serve as shelf covers!

The greatest thing about this solution is its versatility. For one, you can get one big curtain and cover your entire shelf. Alternatively, you can buy or make a small curtain for each individual shelf.

Both solutions have their advantages. The former is a lot easier to put up, and it won’t take too much of your time. On the other hand, the latter will make your shelves look prettier and tidier.

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As for how you can hang the curtains, you also have two choices. You can either buy a curtain rod or use a spring tension model instead. This decision depends entirely on our taste and which type of rod you prefer.

Finally, you also get to play around with the design of your curtains. Since most shelving units are in neutral colors, you can add some brightness to yours by using vibrant curtains like these from Lokigo. And if you’re more into minimalism and subdued hues, you can pick something darker or more neutral as well.

2. Shelf Baskets

Most people want to cover their shelves to hide their contents. That’s usually the case in smaller homes or apartments, as people usually use shelves to store all types of personal belongings due to a lack of space.

If that is your case, this solution is ideal for you. All you need to do is to buy some baskets that fit into your shelf. Luckily, these baskets come in virtually any shape and size, so you’ll definitely be able to find one that suits your shelf.

Shelving baskets are a fantastic choice for various reasons. For one, they are inexpensive. Even if you need five or six for your entire shelf, you’ll still be able to purchase them without draining your budget too much.

Moreover, the baskets come in a wide range of colors and designs. Thus, you’ll be able to fit them into your shelves perfectly. If you choose them carefully, the baskets can be an aesthetic addition that can make your room truly pop.

Finally, baskets are so beloved because of their storage capabilities. Namely, most models can fit quite a bit of stuff, be it clothes, books, or random items you simply don’t know where to put. Whatever you go for, you can rest assured that your shelves will still look pristine and that no one will be able to tell what’s inside!

3. Frosted Glass

In case you can splurge a little, you can also cover your open shelves with frosted glass screens. The easiest solution is to install them with a sliding mechanism so that you can easily access your shelves at all times.

You should note that frosted glass won’t hide the contents of your shelves completely. Rather, silhouettes will still be visible, especially with the lights on. Still, no one will be able to tell if the shelves are a bit dusty or not as tidy as you’d like them to be.

This solution works well both for regular rooms and for bathrooms. In fact, it’s a bit more popular for bathrooms, as glass is easy to clean and can take the humidity that is usually present in this room.

4. Creeper Plants

Are you looking for something that will cover your shelves without actually closing them off fully? In that case, you can try putting up a few pots of creeper plants.

You can either buy the plants yourself or find some outside and plant them in a pot. Even if you have to purchase them, this solution is quite cost-effective and won’t take too much of your time.

Besides providing coverage for your shelves, creeper plants will bring some greenery into your home. This fact is important both because of increased oxygen levels and the aesthetic appeal. In addition, it is said that looking at the color green makes one more peaceful and content, which is always a plus.

Another great fact about creeper plants is that you can cut and style them in any way you want. They can frame your shelf, cover it entirely, or just creep around the corners, taking the attention away from what’s actually on the shelf.

5. Pull-Down Pictures

In certain cases, hiding your shelves and making your home livelier can go hand in hand. If that is your goal, you can install a pull-down picture over some shelves you don’t want to display.

This hack works equally well for cluttered bookshelves and ordinary TV shelf models. You simply attach a canvas picture to your top shelf and connect it to a window shade. Then, you can pull the picture up and down as you wish, all depending on what you need at a particular moment.

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The picture can be pretty much anything you want, from a scenic image to a family photo. You can also take an artsy approach and print some posters or popular pictures. As long as you like it and it fits your overall interior design, you can choose any design.

In case you’d rather install the picture as a door, simply omit the window shade and attach it via small hinges on the side instead. You’ll get the same final result, but opening the picture will work differently.

Besides shelves, you can also use this method to hide the TV or any other type of screen you want to protect when it isn’t in use.

6. Sliding Doors

For everyone that doesn’t have enough floor space to have shelves with doors, you can install a slider model instead. As their name suggests, these doors slide to the side instead of opening like regular ones, making them a great choice for small spaces.

The easiest way to install sliding doors is to buy a hanging rod (similar to the one you’d get for a curtain) and hang some screens on it. And if you’d rather buy everything in one place and install it quickly, you can also opt for store-bought kits like this one. Just choose the size and design that suits your needs, and you’ll be good to go!

Besides shelves in your rooms, you can also install sliding doors on your pantry or an open closet. Either way, it is a great option for covering cluttered spaces that can last for years and neatly fit into any interior design.

7. Canvas Squares

Sometimes, you don’t really need your entire shelf to be covered. Instead, you might just need to hide a shelf here and there, especially if they’re overflowing with books or random miscellaneous items you don’t want to show off.

If so, you can buy or paint canvas squares that are slightly smaller than your shelf opening. Hang them on the shelf using tiny metal hooks, and your job is done!

The advantage of these types of covers is that you can fully personalize them to your home and shelf. If you are an artsy person, you can paint them yourself on smaller pieces of canvas. And if you aren’t, you can just print virtually any image you want and call it a day.

Due to the nature of hooks, you will be able to lift or completely remove the canvas screens whenever you want. Thus, your items will still be readily accessible, although any guests that come over won’t be able to see them.

8. Storage Boxes

This solution is similar to the one with baskets. But instead of boxes made through wickerwork, you can use models from any other material you want. Heavy cardboard is a good option if you paint it and make it appealing. Fabric boxes are another great choice, and they’re also inexpensive.

Of course, you can always go for plastic models as well. They come in various designs, so you’ll surely be able to find something you like. Thus, this solution is a good choice if you can’t be bothered to paint the boxes yourself and you just want something pre-made.

Boxes can help you hide pretty much anything, from clothes and books to electronics and any other items you have nowhere else to store. Plus, they are easy to clean and can last for years, which is great for your budget.

9. Removable Shelf Panels

If you want to turn covering your shelves into a real DIY project, this option is perfect for you. You will need foam boards, some wallpaper, scissors, and a lot of patience.

First off, you’ll need to measure your shelves and cut your foam boards so they can fit in the openings snuggly. The goal is for the cutouts to fit well and cover everything while still being easily removable.

Next, you should cut your wallpaper (or any other adhesive paper with a nice design) slightly larger than your foam boards. You’ll use this paper to cover the boards and transform them into pretty panels for your shelves.

Finally, all that’s left to do is to cover your shelves and enjoy the new view! Again, you can cover your entire shelf with these panels, or just use them to hide a few openings.

If all these steps seem like too much work, you can also buy the panels instead of making them. Doing so will indeed save you a lot of time and trouble, while the result will be the same.

The only potential problem is finding panels that will fit your shelves. But the selection is pretty varied, so it shouldn’t be too hard to find something that fits your needs.

10. Fabric Draperies

Last but not least, you can also cover your shelves with some fancy fabric. You just need a hammer, some nails, scissors, and, of course, the fabric of your choice. Together, these tools will help you create a unique drapery that you can use to cover any shelf or cabinet you want.

The fabric you go for can be sheer, solid, opaque, patterned, or in any other style that you fancy. Naturally, it should match the rest of your room and home, but that is the only condition you should pay attention to.

When cutting the fabric, you should make it 1 inch longer and wider than your shelf or cabinet. You can either have a single drapery or one that consists of two panels of fabric and opens down the middle. In the latter case, you will have to sew the two parts together.

Then, just attach the drapery to the top of your shelf using nails and a hammer, and you’ll be all done! Whenever you want to replace or wash the drapery, simply carefully remove it from the nails.

Granted, this solution works best for large shelving units, especially in kitchens and pantries. If you want to cover smaller ones, any of the suggestions above will work nicely instead.

Covering Shelves Without Doors: Final Thoughts

And there you have it! It is actually quite easy to cover open shelves in your home. You can opt for removable panels, creeper plants, DIY curtains, canvas pieces, and even some sliding doors.

Hopefully, these ideas help you figure out what the best solution is for you. Remember to be creative and think outside the box, as that is the key to solving even the most difficult interior design problems.

The post How to Cover Shelves Without Doors: 10 Innovative Ideas for Any Budget appeared first on HomelyVille.

Painting the inside of your kitchen cabinet interiors is a matter of personal preference. And in most cases, they’re left unpainted. However, the practical effect of having painted or unpainted interiors is negligible because they’re adequately protected from dirt and oil vapor by the exteriors.

If you want to paint your kitchen cabinets and have yet to decide whether you should paint the interiors as well, you’re in the right place. Keep reading this article to get insights into why you should or shouldn’t paint your kitchen cabinet interiors.

Deciding Whether or Not to Paint Kitchen Cabinet Interiors

Painting kitchen cabinets is simple, but it gets tricky for the cabinet’s interiors. Doing so is a good way to add life to the cabinets. You can either reduce the contrast between the interiors and the cabinet doors or create a pop of color to make the space more eye-catching, whichever suits your needs.

However, you can still leave them as they are. The choice is yours!

Either way, painted or unpainted, the cabinets still serve their purpose.

If you decide to paint the interiors, you should keep in mind that the process isn’t as simple as painting the outdoors.

Here you’ll mostly deal with the hard-to-reach innermost parts of your cabinets. Additionally, some interior parts may need you to paint upside down, which can be pretty challenging. And depending on the design of your cabinets, you may need to remove the doors before painting the interiors.

So, in a nutshell, painting the inside of kitchen cabinets can be more challenging than you envisioned.

If the task seems overly demanding to you, leave the interiors as they are, but if you feel that you can crack through it, go ahead and paint. If you settle for the latter, spray painting using a spray gun will make the task a little bit easier for you.

Reasons to Paint the Inside of Your Kitchen Cabinets

Let’s look at some reasons why you might undertake this demanding process to have the insides of your kitchen cabinets painted.

For Display

You may decide to paint the insides of your kitchen cabinets for display purposes. This Is usually the case if your cabinets have a glass or open front.

The beauty of having open or glass-fronted kitchen cabinets is that they allow you to show off what’s on the inside effortlessly. And by doing this, they put the interiors of your cabinets on display too.

Therefore, it may necessitate you to paint the inside of the cabinets to create a perfect display. You can decide to go with a color that matches the exteriors for uniformity or a different shade for intrigue.

For Uniformity

Even if your kitchen cabinets aren’t glass-fronted, you may decide to paint the interiors to achieve uniformity with the exteriors. Matching the inside of the cabinets with the exteriors creates a cohesive and sophisticated look. You don’t have to worry about your cabinets looking weird any time you open them.

To Add Contrast

You can also decide to paint the interiors of your kitchen cabinets to create contrast. Here, you can be a little creative with colors and get a different shade that creates contrast while still complementing the exterior hue.

You can even use different shades for different cabinets. The choice is all yours!

Personal Preference

The choice to paint the inside of your kitchen cabinets can also be a matter of personal preference.

It can be a move to upgrade your kitchen space to suit your lifestyle needs or change the old paint. After all, the kitchen is yours, and you’re free to do whatever you want with it—you’re the master of your kitchen!

Reasons Not to Paint the Inside of Your Kitchen Cabinets

Now, on the flip side, let’s look at a few reasons why you might not want to paint the interiors of your kitchen cabinets.

Difficult to Do

Painting the inside of kitchen cabinets isn’t a task for the faint-hearted. You should be prepared to deal with lots of hard-to-reach areas, remove the doors or front ends, paint upside down, etc.

This process is quite tricky if you don’t possess expert painting skills, and it might be difficult to get a thick paint coat in all the interior parts.

So, if the process seems overwhelming for you, leave the interiors unpainted.

Time-Consuming

The exteriors of your kitchen cabinets are easy to paint and don’t take up much of your time. However, for the inside of the cabinets, you’ve got to spare a few more hours out of your busy schedule to remove the doors and other front decorations, clean all the cabinets, and get paint to the hard-to-reach corners.

So, if you have a busy schedule, you shouldn’t commit yourself to painting the inside of your kitchen cabinets.

Uses More Paint

The insides of the kitchen cabinets constitute the largest part of them. Therefore, painting them means you need extra paint, which can be costly if you’re working on a budget.

And besides the extra paint needed for the initial painting phase, you’ll also need more paint to take care of the regular paint chips.

Painting cabinet interiors can be a costly undertaking that may not be worth it in the long run unless your cabinets are open or glass-fronted, where one can see the insides at all times.

Paint Chips

Sometimes, as the paint on the inside of the cabinets dries up, it may chip and fall on your kitchen essentials. You may find paint chips in your edible kitchen supplies, and removing them can be overwhelming.

Besides, when paint chips fall on your cutlery, you need to spend some time wiping or cleaning them. Cabinets with high traffic, such as those holding regularly used kitchen supplies and cutlery, are more prone to chipping than others.

To reduce the nuisance caused by paint chips, you can add a sealant to your cabinets’ interiors after painting them. Adding a sealant layer means an added expense and more drying time before you use your cabinets again.

Painting the Inside of Cabinets: FAQs

Here’s a rundown of some frequently asked questions regarding painting the inside of kitchen cabinets:

Which Paint Is Good for Kitchen Cabinet Interiors?

If you decide to paint the inside of your kitchen cabinets, consider using either latex or oil-based paints. Latex paints are easy to work with and clean with water, and they are also user-friendly. Oil-based paints take longer to dry, but they’re more durable.

Either way, latex or oil-based paints are good for the inside of kitchen cabinets.

Do You Have to Seal the Inside Kitchen Cabinets After Painting Them?

While it’s not mandatory to include a sealant, applying one to painted cabinet interiors reduces chipping. If you choose not to add a sealant, the cabinets will still be functional in its absence. However, it’s highly advisable to include it for the high-traffic cabinets that you use more often.

Which Is the Best for Kitchen Cabinets: Brush or Spray Paint?

You can use either a brush or spray paint for your kitchen cabinets. Spray paint gives a smoother finish, but you may incur extra costs renting the spray equipment. Besides, when using spray paint, you’ll be required to mask off other areas of your kitchen to counter accidental sprays.

Since masking off may include masking countertops, handles, and other areas, it may be time-consuming, and it may also cost you to get the masking material.

When using a brush (a cheaper and more convenient option), consider getting a quality medium-sized brush. For latex paint, it’s best if you use a synthetic brush and a natural bristle brush for oil-based paint.

You may also like: How Many Coats of Primer on Wood Cabinets?

Wrapping It Up

The decision on whether you should or shouldn’t paint your kitchen cabinets is a matter of personal choice and preference.

And while painting your kitchen cabinet interiors can be tricky, costly, and time-consuming, it helps customize your kitchen space giving it uniformity and a touch of color. All you need to do is weigh the benefits and the downsides of painting your kitchen cabinet interiors and then decide which option is best.

Good luck deciding on what to do with the inside of your kitchen cabinets!

The post Do You Really Need to Paint the Inside of Kitchen Cabinets? appeared first on HomelyVille.

In this article, we’ll explore effective ways to remove sticky cabinet bumpers, including using strong dish soap, homemade vinegar spray, or specialized products like Goo Gone. Let’s dive in and get started!

1. Dish Soap

Before purchasing any fancy soaps or cleaning products, try to remove sticky grease with dish soap. An example of excellent dish soap is Blue Dawn since it is gentle enough not to damage your wooden cabinets while still being very powerful.

Supplies needed: Dish soap, baking soap, sponge, toothbrush, and a bowl.

Here is how to use it:

1. Get a medium to a large bowl and fill it with warm water. Add a few squirts of dish soap.
2. Mix the water with the soap with your hands.
3. Grab a sponge, dip it in the bowl and wipe down the sticky area.
4. Leave it for a minute, and then scrub down the area that’s sticky.
5. If the sponge doesn’t fully get it off, get a toothbrush.
6. Dip the toothbrush in the water and add a little bit of baking soda on top of the toothbrush.
7. Start scrubbing the sticky spot.
8. If necessary, add some more of the soapy water.
9. Grab a cloth and dampen it with some water and a little vinegar to remove any soap residue from the cabinet.

2. Vinegar Spray

Vinegar can be a very powerful cleaning tool, so this could be a great way to eliminate the stickiness on your cabinets. However, vinegar is acidic, so you need to mix it not to damage the materials. Diluted vinegar isn’t as powerful, though, so you need to add some of that amazing Dawn soap to the mix to give it back its power.

1. Make sure you have an empty spray bottle that you can fill with one cup of vinegar, two cups of water, and two tablespoons of Blue Dawn.
2. Close the spray bottle and shake it to mix the ingredients well.
3. Spray it on the sticky mess.
4. Use a sponge to wipe it away; you can use a toothbrush for more stubborn spots.
5. Wipe away any residue with a clean, damp cloth.
6. If you want to bring some shine back to the (wooden) cabinet: Add some linseed oil.
7. Put new cabinet bumpers on.

3. Toothpaste

Another great way to use products you (most likely) already have at home. In addition to the toothpaste, you’ll need baking soda as well. Here’s how:

1. Mix one teaspoon of white toothpaste with one cup of water and two tablespoons of baking soda.
2. Mix these ingredients well with your finger or a spoon.
3. Grab a sponge and dip it into the mixture, and srub the sticky cabinet.
4. Use a damp cloth to remove any excess residue from the cabinet.
5. Optional: Add some linseed oil to the (wooden) cabinet to make it shiny again.
6. Put new cabinet bumpers on.

4. Goo-Gone

If the dish soap, the vinegar spray, and the toothpaste didn’t work, don’t panic. You might need some more potent products. A great one is Goo-Gone. What you need is Goo-gone, a scraper, and a paper towel. Let’s get into the how-to:

1. Grab your scraper and try to scrape off as much of the excess stickiness as you can.
2. Spray Goo-Gone on the area.
3. Let it sit for a few minutes.
4. Simply wipe off the rest with a paper towel!
5. Put new cabinet bumpers on.

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Don’t Forget to Replace the Old Bumpers

Don’t forget to replace the old, melted bumpers with new ones! Be careful to remove any grease from the cabinets before gluing the new bumpers on the cabinets, or they might not stick. If you’re looking for some new cabinet bumpers, check out this article.

Conclusion

Removing stickiness from your cabinet can be very frustrating, especially if you’re unsure how you’re going to do it. Regular soap often doesn’t work well enough, although that doesn’t mean you have to use aggressive cleaning supplies. Often products you have at home combined can do the trick.

The post How to Remove Sticky Cabinet Bumpers appeared first on HomelyVille.

Warmer colored lights are the best for the kitchen. Kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms are all cozy places in the home and having slightly yellow or orange-toned lights creates a relaxing ambiance. Look for lightbulbs that have between 2700-3000K color temperature.

Read on to learn more about color temperature, kitchen lighting options, and the best temperature of light for your kitchen.

Light Temperature

Light temperature, or color temperature, is measured in Kelvin units, the measurement used for absolute temperature.

As an object heats up, it emits different colors. Think of a piece of metal being held in a flame; when the metal first starts to warm, it is a deep red color, as it gets hotter, then tone changes from red, to orange, to yellow, to white, and eventually, a bluish-white.

Lights above 4600K are considered “cool” temperatures and have a blue-ish tone. Lights that are 3000K and below are “warm” temperatures and have a yellow or orange-ish tone. Temperatures in between these ranges are neutral and appear white.

The temperature of light has a lot of influence on human perception. One 2019 study found that lower color temperatures had health benefits for humans. These benefits included the promoted production of melatonin and glutamate, acceleration of healing injuries, and even hair regrowth.

Cooler temperature lights also have a strong effect on humans. Cooler tones promote alertness and productivity by lowering melatonin, the sleep hormone. These cool lights are often used in offices and conference rooms to increase work outputs.

Standard Indoor Light Temperature

The standard indoor light temperature ranges from 2700K-5000K. 5000K temperatures are often found in fluorescent lights, usually used in garages, warehouses, and basements. These lights are harsh on human eyesight for extended periods and can cause sleeplessness, though they provide clear illumination. Lights of 5000K are best used for security lights and motion sensors, as they rapidly brighten a scene.

The most common indoor lighting is between 3000K-3500K. This is white light but has a warmish hue, so it’s easier on the eyes. This lighting is ideal for hallways, bathrooms, home offices, and storage closets. 3500K is also a temperature some people prefer to use in their kitchen if they want their cooking space to appear pristine and white.

For cozier spaces in your home, 2700K lighting is best. This light temperature has a noticeably warm color and makes a space relaxing and inviting. 2700K lighting belongs in bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, and kitchens. The warmer the color, the more reminiscent it is of a fire; perhaps this is why warm lighting is so inviting to humans.

The Best Color Light for Your Kitchen

The best color of lighting for your kitchen will be between 2700K and 3000K. 2700K lighting will be warmer, setting the scene for romantic dinners and cozy pancake brunches. 3000K will be closer to white, with a more industrial feel. If you like things to be hyper-clean, then you’ll prefer the 3000K lighting, as it will make the room seem more sanitized and modern.

If you have a large kitchen, you can also plan different temperature lights throughout the room. The overhead lighting you use daily for cooking and cleaning could be 3000K, while under-the-cupboard lighting could be 2700K. That way, when you turn only the lower lights on in the morning or evening, you have a more relaxed ambiance.

Another lighting option for the kitchen is dimmable lighting, so you can alter the lights’ brightness, which will also make the room seem more inviting.

The Best Type of Lighting for Your Kitchen

The type of light fixtures you use in your kitchen will also affect the atmosphere. Pair one of these types of lighting with your preferred light temperature to create the mood you prefer.

Recessed Lighting

Recessed lighting involves small fixtures inset into the ceiling. Multiple fixtures are mounted throughout a room or down a hallway to spread even lighting, and often use LED lightbulbs, which can be any light temperature you desire. Recessed lights are a great option as a basic light for your kitchen, especially when paired with a track light under the cupboards.

Wall Sconces

Wall sconces are decorative, wall-mounted lights that are usually made of glass. These lamps are more commonly found in hallways where floor space is minimal. Wall sconces are not usually in kitchens, as the walls are mostly utilized for cupboards and other storage.

If you have a kitchen/dining room combo, you can use wall sconces in a warmer tone to set the mood for evening dinners. Just be aware that having mixed temperatures of lights can be very jarring to the human eye, so the temperatures should be within 300K of each other.

Pendant Lighting

Pendant lighting is very popular hanging over kitchen islands and bars. Pendant lights are smaller bulbs hung on a single cord descending directly from the ceiling. A single pendant light can illuminate a table or seating area, but they are often set in rows of three or four above the kitchen island.

Chandeliers

Chandeliers are similar to pendant lights in that they descend from the ceiling but tend to be much more intricate. Chandeliers are often found in entryways, great halls, and grand dining rooms.

Historically, chandeliers have been a sign of wealth and were originally lit with beeswax candles. Louis XIV famously decorated the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles’ Palace with ornate chandeliers and candle holders. The massive room took over 20,000 candles to illuminate.

You won’t necessarily see a grand chandelier in a kitchen, but a smaller version of the light source often hangs over dining room tables. Using warm light of 2700K or lower in a chandelier will mimic candlelight and will call to mind the days of old when great kingdoms were lit only by the power of flames.

Track Lighting

Track lighting is extremely popular in modern homes, as a thin strip of light is mounted under cupboards or above shelving. Track lights can be warm or cool, depending on their function. As a subtle illumination source under the kitchen cupboards, a warm light will be more inviting in the early morning and evening, when the only lights are turned on.

If you’re using track lighting to accent or illuminate a work of art or a cabinet of awards, then usually a white light around 4000K is used to show off the works’ truest colors.

Ceiling Fixtures

Ceiling fixtures, unlike pendant lights and chandeliers, are ceiling-mounted lights that don’t hang down. Instead, the fixture is mounted directly to the ceiling, and some sort of shade is used to disperse the light around the room.

A single ceiling fixture is often centered in the middle of a room to act as the main light source, with floor and table lamps used to compensate in darker areas. This is a common setup for bedrooms, living rooms, and studies, but not so commonly found in kitchens. If you have a very small kitchen, this is a good option but should be paired with track lighting to better brighten the countertops.

Standing and Table Lamps

Standing and table lamps are fun to decorate with, though they are not best used in the kitchen. Table lamps would take up precious counter space, and floor lamps are at risk of getting knocked over. The kitchen is simply too much of a hot spot for an activity for delicate house lights, light a standing lamp or crystal table lamp.

Plus, you don’t want to have to fumble with small light switches when your hands are full of cookie dough!

Summary

The color of light best used in the kitchen is between 2700K-3500K, depending on what you want your kitchen to feel like. If you want the cooking space to be cozy, inviting, and warm enough to hang out in, then you should pick a 2700K light bulb.

If you prefer to get things done in the kitchen, if you like the appearance of a very clean space, or if you often do work in your kitchen, then a 3500K light will increase productivity and make the space sparkle in the white light.

The post What Color Light Is Best for Your Kitchen? appeared first on HomelyVille.

Of course, you can pretty much do all of that with regular utensils. However, with the right appliance, you can save yourself a lot of time and effort while preparing a meal or making that cup of tea in the afternoon.

In this article, I will cover a number of kitchen appliances that all homeowners should consider getting. You will most likely recognize a few of the items here. However, I will also cover some lesser-known products that just might spice up your food preparation time in the long run.

More importantly, I will leave out some large appliances like ovens, dishwashers, and refrigerators, since they are more or less a must-have of any modern kitchen. 

1. Toaster

A toasted slice of bread is a breakfast staple in millions of homes worldwide. After all, who doesn’t like a crunchy, crisp early morning meal?

There are more than a few varieties of toasters out there, from the classic 2-slot products to more advanced 4-slot options with added features. A few models come with their own warming racks. Most of them are reasonably priced, but if you aim to buy something a bit more high-tech, but pricey, there are some interesting smart toasters on the market.

2. Convection Toaster Oven

Having a convection toaster oven in your kitchen will be extremely beneficial. In fact, you might end up using it more than your regular oven down the line.

Let’s say that you want to heat up a few pieces of bread or a bagel, or maybe you want to prepare a miniature pizza or some baked sweet potatoes. Using a regular oven for a minor task like that will take a lot of time. But with a convection oven, all you need to do is pop the food in and let the appliance do the work. 

3. Air Fryer

What do you call an oven that uses a minimal amount of oil in order to prepare a meal, thus making it healthier? And, more importantly, what if that oven can quite literally do more than just frying food, i.e., baking, toasting, etc.? Well, you call it an air fryer.

Air fryers are portable, reasonably priced, and more importantly, they can do the job of several different appliances at once. With a single fryer, you can prepare delicious meals for the whole family while both saving oil and, more importantly, eating more healthily as you do so.

4. Electric Food Chopper

Food choppers, also known as food blenders, come in a variety of shapes and sizes. For instance, you have the slender, elegant hand blenders that allow mobility as you slice and dice your food ingredient of choice. In addition, you have the classic tabletop blenders that do all the work for you.

If you don’t have the knife-wielding skills of a professional chef and don’t want to cut your finger, then an electric chopper is the perfect option for you. It’s especially handy for parents who need to shred or dice the food for their toddlers.  

5. Rice Cooker/Food Steamer

Preparing healthy foods like rice, risotto, oatmeal, stews, and so on will require some effort with a regular oven. The same goes for something as seemingly simple as steaming vegetables. With that in mind, you will need an appliance that will cover all of that and much more, i.e. a decent combination of a rice cooker and a food steamer.

The reason I listed both names under one product is simple — the names are not interchangeable, but most modern steamers are also rice cookers, and vice versa. Usually, you can prepare at least two different meals in a single steamer. In short, it’s an appliance that saves you space, time, and money, all while serving up a delicious, healthy meal or two.

6. Touchless Soap Dispenser

A touchless soap dispenser is one of those items I mentioned that you won’t find around the kitchen too often. That’s a shame, in my opinion, since these products are incredibly useful for anyone who spends a lot of time around the stove.

When preparing a meal, you will need to keep your hands clean. Naturally, you can have a regular soap dispenser, but you would have to touch it to squeeze some soap out, which will leave the cap dirty and smudged. On the other hand, a dispenser with a sensor will allow you to get just enough soap to wash up without staining the dispenser itself.

7. Automatic Pan Stirrer

Let’s say that you’re making something in a saucepan or even a regular pan, like a porridge or a sauce or gravy. In order for the ingredients not to stick to the pan, you would have to stir it regularly. But you just don’t have the time to do so, especially if you’re preparing a large meal that involves more than just the pan.

Luckily, there’s an awesome solution, and it’s called an automatic pan stirrer. This device will stir your meal as it’s being prepared, leaving you free to tend to other matters in the kitchen. In fact, most of these pan stirrers come with a timer, giving you a completely hands-off experience. In addition, the stirrer is made from non-stick material, so you don’t have to worry about bits of plastic melting on the surface of your saucepan.

8. Microwave Oven

No modern home is complete without a microwave oven. In fact, you can get them at a wide variety of prices, from reasonably-priced basic models to some more expensive options.

A single microwave oven can cover a lot of ground. It can warm up a cold meal, as well as unfreeze frozen foods. But more importantly, it’s a compact tool and an ultimate space-saver that you can literally put anywhere in your kitchen.

9. Kitchen Scale

Food preparation requires a lot of measuring, so if you’re someone who prefers a home-cooked meal to ordering food or eating out, you will definitely need a decent kitchen scale.

Interestingly, you won’t be using the scale simply for measuring ingredients for your dishes. For example, there are some products out there that are specifically designed to weigh ingredients for drinks. In fact, they come with their own apps which help you through the experience. So, if you fancy yourself a homegrown bartender, you will love having one of these scales around.

10. Thermometer

Once again, preparing meals requires a lot of measuring, and more often than not you’ll need to take the temperature of your mixture into consideration. So, what you need is a decent kitchen thermometer that can measure temperatures accurately in a few seconds.

In recent years, kitchen thermometers have become incredibly high-tech and precise. Even the most basic option on the market will give you an accurate temperature reading within 2–3 seconds. Of course, you can always opt for the pricier version and get a set with assisted cooking and long-range Bluetooth connectivity.

11. Coffee Maker

Coffee makers, also known as coffee brewers, have a bit of a reputation. Most of them end up being that one appliance you only use once or twice a year. However, I personally think that they get too much flack, since they are such a useful tool to have around the house.

Modern coffee makers come with a wide variety of options, allowing you to brew a cup in no time, as well as to program when you want your next cup to wait for you. Moreover, they are quite safe, with automatic shut-off features that allow the appliance to rest when it’s done brewing.

12. Coffee Grinder

Naturally, you can’t have a coffee maker without a coffee grinder. Sure, it’s absolutely fine if you want to buy pre-ground coffee, but it will never have that fresh, potent aroma of ground coffee beans.

Most people think of coffee grinders as those old-timey manual devices with a crank, which are still sold to this day and which still get the job done perfectly. However, modern grinders have gone digital, and you can set everything from the time and quantity you’ll need to the type of grinding you want. And if you’re willing to go all-out, you can always get yourself a coffee maker/grinder combo. 

13. Sous Vide Precision Cooker

Are you a fan of sous vide cooking? Do you prefer this method to traditional meal preparation, but don’t have the necessary tools to do it? Well, as this past decade has shown us, sous vide cooking equipment is now readily available to buy. You no longer need to be a chef in a top-tier restaurant in order to precision-cook your meals.

Current high-end sous vide precision cookers come with lots of benefits. You can set up your temperature perfectly without worrying that you will over- or undercook a single meal. Moreover, you can monitor your cooker from a distance through a Wi-Fi connection and an app.

14. Trash Scanner

This particular product is not talked about enough. However, I believe that it has the potential to be one of the most useful items in the kitchen.

The idea behind the trash scanner is simple: before you throw away the packaging of a product (i.e. a ketchup bottle or a pack of sausages), you let the device scan the packaging. Once it does, it automatically adds it to your shopping list. In short, it saves you the trouble of remembering every single item or writing them down somewhere.

15. Electric Indoor Grill

Grilling is awesome. In fact, it’s so awesome, that people from all walks of life want to enjoy tossing some meat and veggies on the fire. Sadly, if you live in a small apartment or don’t have a backyard, owning a grill can be difficult.

Luckily, you can always buy an electric indoor grill and enjoy a sloppy Joe weekend every single week. Most models can handle a meal for at least four people. More importantly, they are compact and won’t take up any room in your kitchen.

16. Belgian Waffle Maker

Enjoying a Belgian waffle every now and again is always neat. Of course, in order to do that, you will require a high-end waffle maker. Though, luckily, it doesn’t necessarily have to come from Belgium.

Current waffle makers have a non-stick, stainless steel frame. Remember those nasty moments when half of your waffle ends up glued to the surface of the maker? With new waffle makers, those moments will become a thing of the past. In addition, some appliances are designed in such a way that you can rotate them easily for precise, even browning. 

17. Rapid Egg Cooker

How do you like your eggs? Do you like them boiled, poached, scrambled, deviled? How about a nice omelet for that perfect bacon and eggs breakfast combo?

Well, instead of using a dozen different utensils, simply put the eggs in a handy rapid egg cooker. With the right temperature and the proper measurement, you can have an egg-based meal in a matter of minutes. More importantly, these appliances can handle up to 12 eggs at once, depending on how you want to prepare them. And to top it all off, each appliance is portable and compact, so it will fit nicely on your countertop.

18. Cooktop Burner

Why would you need a cooktop burner if you already have an oven with a stove, I hear you asking. Well, there are quite a few reasons for that, actually. For example, your stove might already have a few meals boiling on top. That’s when you can use a cooktop burner to brew some tea or prepare a quick meal without moving anything away from the stove.

In addition, some apartments simply don’t have enough space in their kitchen for a full-sized oven with a stove. For these homes, a cooktop burner will do the job in more ways than one. 

19. Indoor Tabletop Garden

Hydroponic gardens are all the rage nowadays, especially in modern homes with no outdoor garden. A single appliance can grow various herbs and vegetables, giving you a fresh supply every time. In addition, it doesn’t use soil and it comes with its own LED growth lights. In other words, you don’t have to worry if your kitchen doesn’t receive enough natural sunlight — the plants will still grow, no matter where you put the appliance.

20. Cold Brew Maker

Some people prefer ice coffee to the regular brew, or ice tea to regular tea. Cold brewing is nothing new, but doing it at home hasn’t really been an option until recently.

Nowadays, you can find inexpensive and easy-to-use cold brew makers at most online retailers. Simply pour your coffee grounds of choice, add water, and leave the brew maker in the fridge overnight. Of course, some people don’t feel like waiting for that long to get the brew. Luckily, there are a few rapid brew maker options out there that can get the job done in as little as 15 minutes.

21. Salt and Pepper Mills

Grinding salt and pepper might seem like a bit of a drag to most people. However, it does add an air of elegance to your kitchen. With that in mind, you will always benefit from having a couple of grinders for both salt and pepper, as well as other spices.

However, while you might use the traditional, manual mills, why not try and modernize? Current salt and pepper mills will do all the grinding for you, with the same, spectacular result. All you need to do is fill them up and push the button — the mills will handle the rest.

22. Electric Tea Kettle

It might seem like an unnecessary expense, but having an electric tea kettle in your kitchen will save you both time and money in the long run. Top-of-the-line kettles are usually made from durable, strong materials that can handle years of intense heat. Moreover, they come with an automatic shut-off function. Once the temperature reaches the boiling point, the kettle switches itself off.

Finally, unlike old electric kettles, these new options are quiet. They are also cordless, which allows you to pour the tea anywhere without any nasty spills. 

23. Hand Mixer

Anyone who has ever made a cake in their life knows how important it is to have a hand mixer around. It allows you to move them about freely when stirring something, giving you complete control. In addition, they don’t take up too much room and you can easily put them away after use. What’s more, modern mixers don’t produce a lot of noise and they don’t overheat as easily as older models did.

24. Stand Mixer

Having a hand mixer is great, of course, as stated above. But there are times when you want to mix up a batch of batter, but don’t want to tire your hands out. Alternatively, maybe you need something to do the stirring in the background while your hands are busy doing something else. That’s when you’ll need a high-quality stand mixer.

One advantage that stand mixers have over their hand counterparts is the number of modes and speeds. In short, you can use a stand mixer both for whipping cream and mixing cookie dough, all with a push of a few buttons.

25. Juicer

Just like coffee makers, juicers carry around that stigma of ‘the appliance you will only use once or twice.’ However, that is not the case, especially in the early 21st century. With veganism becoming more widespread, lots of people want to make fresh, natural juice.

A single juicer nowadays comes with a wide variety of functions. First off, it can literally juice anything, from fruits and veggies to various herbs and plants. Next, it produces an incredibly high juice yield every single time. Finally, it’s easy to use, clean, and maintain, making it the perfect appliance for the modern kitchen.

26. Mug Warmer

Yes, mug warmers sound really posh, but you’d be surprised how useful they can be. A single warmer will maintain the same temperature of your drink, be it coffee, tea, or anything else. They also come with separate temperature settings and an automatic shut-off sequence. And to top it all off, they are incredibly small, so you can quite literally fit them anywhere.

27. Electric Can Opener

Opening a can is always a hassle, even with the best manual can openers out there. So, instead of breaking your fingers trying to twist the handle that extra inch, get an electric can opener instead. They will open any can you have with a single push of a button.

28. Bread Maker

Last, but definitely not least, bread makers will provide you with a fresh loaf of your favorite wheat product every single day. Most modern bread makers come with lots of different options, taking everything from loaf size to crust into consideration.

Final Thoughts  

The list above includes 28 different appliances. Obviously, you don’t need to own every single one of them, especially if you have a small kitchen with little room to spare. However, all of them are incredibly useful and cost-effective, and if you have the chance of owning at least one, don’t hesitate to do so.

The post 28 Kitchen Appliances Every Homeowner Should Consider appeared first on HomelyVille.

If you have a small kitchen, you can consider placing your microwave inside a cabinet or drawer. There are options of over-the-range microwaves that can save you lots of space, and a compact microwave can even fit on the counter or built-in to your kitchen island.

In this guide, we’ll cover the importance of finding the correct space for your microwave. We’ll also discuss different options where you can position the appliance. Lastly, we’ll recommend suitable microwaves for small kitchens.

The Importance of Putting Your Microwave in the Correct Place

It’s always best to keep your kitchen clean so that you can have a healthy and hygienic life. We also need to cook to eat, and doing all that in a small kitchen is already hard.

Now, where the microwave goes might seem unimportant compared to other issues. However, it needs to be in a place where it won’t bother you while you do all you need to do in the kitchen.

There are many places inside your kitchen where you could place your microwave. They can go in a drawer or cabinet or even over the range. It also needs to be in a place to allow you enough space to use and access it easily. Avoid placing your microwave around the area you store your food or right next to the fridge, as the microwave can negatively affect both. 

Whichever location you choose, you have to keep in mind that it needs to be in an area of easy access for everyone. Overall, the best place to put it will depend on the style and space of your kitchen.

Best Places for Your Microwave in a Small Kitchen

Here are some ideas on where to place your microwave if your kitchen is small.

1. Below the Counter

If you don’t have much space in your kitchen, you can consider replacing a drawer with a microwave cabinet.

It will allow you to have your microwave on hand without taking away any of the kitchen’s space. However, you should avoid this idea if you have small children as it could be dangerous for them.

Suppose you are remodeling your kitchen or starting from zero. In that case, a microwave-ready base cabinet will cost you the same as a drawer.

2. Integrated Into Cabinetry

Integrating your microwave into the cabinet is a great option that allows you to customize the height for better reachability. However, it might be too far from a counter, so it is not the most practical option.

An integrated microwave can also be a bit expensive, but if you can afford it, go for it.

3. In a Spare Cabinet

Placing a microwave inside a spare cabinet is a do it yourself option.

To make it work, you only need a microwave that can fit inside any of your cabinets. Choose a cabinet you do not use, choose a microwave that can go inside, and you’ve solved the problem. However, it might be challenging to access if the cabinet door gets rusty over time.

Consider calling an expert to wire the cabinet so that you can use the microwave. Although, you can also do it yourself if you have the tools and knowledge.

Note: Check your microwave instruction booklet to see if the cabinet will provide enough ventilation. If not, this option won’t be a good idea for you.

4. Over the Range

If you don’t have much space to work with, then placing your microwave over the range can be the solution. It is useful, but perhaps not the most attractive option. If the microwave is set too high, it might be difficult for everyone to access it.

Over-the-range microwaves are not the cheapest options, but they are easy to install and are quite useful.

5. Combined With a Wall Oven

If you don’t have enough space and want to build your kitchen from scratch, we recommend a wall-oven-microwave combo. It gives you a good display of both appliances, and it is space-efficient.

You can buy a microwave-wall-oven combo or just a wall oven and use a kit trim to place the microwave above it.

6. In an Appliance Garage

If you have the option, an appliance garage can give you the right space to not only put your microwave but other items like blenders or toasters. Using an appliance garage will ensure that your microwave and other appliances are always easy to reach.

You can turn any part of the counter into an appliance garage, and it is a good investment if you can afford it.

7. On the Island

If your kitchen is small but has an island built into it, then using that space for the microwave can save you a lot of time and effort. Kitchen islands are useful for many reasons. Using yours to place your microwave will allow you to save space in the cabinets to store essential kitchen items.

You can also place the microwave in one of the island’s drawers, but it might be too low for easy access.

8. Built-In With a Trim Kit

If you choose a low spare cabinet or a drawer, you can make your microwave blend better with the kitchen by adding a trim kit. A trim kit is an easy-to-install metal ring that fills the space between the microwave and the cabinet.

Compact Microwaves for Small Kitchens

When it comes to microwaves, there are thousands of options with different power levels and sizes. However, if you have limited space, then you should consider getting a compact microwave.

If you are looking for a compact microwave, there are some excellent options on this list.

• Whirlpool 0.5 Cubic Feet 750-Watt Countertop Microwave – Whirlpool’s compact microwave is an efficient choice if you have a small space to work with. It is small, but gives you the same power as a regular size microwave. This model is also suitable for quick heatings and comes with a +30s button, has enough space for a dinner plate, and won’t take any more space from your kitchen than necessary. Note: It comes with a lock button if you have small children that like to play with the kitchen appliances.
• Daewoo Retro 0.7 Cubic Feet 700-Watt Countertop Microwave – The Daewoo Retro is stylish and efficient, and its unique color (mint green) will make your kitchen stand out from the rest. It is compact and powerful, as it powers up to 700 watts. It also offers a child lock, and it is relatively easy to use and install.
• Panasonic 1.2 Cubic Feet Microwave – Panasonic compact microwave has 1200 watts of power. It comes with a GeniusSensor that can adjust its settings for different food types. It also comes with a child lock, delay start option, and preset menu items. It also comes with the Keep Warm feature, which maintains your food warm until you are ready to eat.

Conclusion

The place you’ll put your microwave must be of easy access and functionality. You should avoid placing it near cabinets with food or close to the fridge.

If you have a small kitchen, then a cabinet or drawer could be the best solution. Use a trim kit if you want the microwave to blend with the kitchen’s style. Over-the-range microwaves are another great option as it gives you two appliances for the space of one.

Overall, make every bit of space count and go for the best option on your budget.

The post Where to Put Your Microwave in a Small Kitchen: Top Ideas appeared first on HomelyVille.

If your answer to any of these questions is ‘yes,’ then you might want to consider buying an egg cooker. Don’t know what an egg cooker is and what it can do? Then let me tell you everything about it.

What Is an Egg Cooker?

An egg cooker is a reasonably small kitchen appliance that can cook eggs in multiple ways by steaming them. That means there’s no burnt oil, no mess, and most importantly, it’s consistent. The egg cooker can be of great help when you want to boil six perfect eggs for the whole family.

How Does an Egg Cooker Work?

Egg cookers use steam for cooking the eggs, so all you need is water (and eggs, obviously). Depending on how you like your eggs, you can add more — or less — water. For instance, if I want to make hard-boiled eggs for a salad, I will add more water than I normally would for soft-boiled eggs.

All egg cookers come with a measuring cup, which will tell you exactly how much water you need for different results. Use it to measure the water before you pour it in the cooker, to make sure your eggs are cooked exactly the way you want them.

If you’d like to better understand all the functions of an egg cooker, there’s plenty of video guides out there.

How to Boil Eggs in an Egg Cooker

In order to boil eggs in an egg cooker, you will need to follow some instructions (don’t worry, nothing too crazy).

Boiling eggs in a cooker is slightly different than cooking them the traditional way or boiling them in an electric kettle. Here’s how you do it:

• Wash the eggs.
• Use the little pin at the bottom of the measuring cup to gently poke a small hole in every egg. Don’t be too rough, or you will end up cracking the shell.
• Place the eggs in the egg holder, with the “hole side” up.
• Fill the measuring cup with water, according to how you want your eggs cooked.
• Pour the water into the heating plate.
• Place the lid on the egg cooker, leaving it unlocked.
• Turn on the egg cooker.
• Once the light turns off, your eggs are ready.

I should mention one small thing — keep your fingers away from the hole in the lid while eggs are cooking! That’s where the steam will come out, and it can burn you.

Can It Do More than Boil Eggs?

Usually, egg cookers come with multiple interchangeable accessories that let you get different results. The egg cookers that I came across (and the one I own), have three such accessories:

• One for poaching eggs
• A rack for 6–8 boiled eggs
• One tray accessory for omelets

Of course, you can get creative with them and make some rather interesting dishes. Just make sure that you use the right amount of water indicated on the measuring cup, depending on the dish you want to prepare.

Cleaning the Egg Cooker

When you make an omelet in a pan, you usually have plenty of dirty and oily dishes to deal with afterward. Well, with egg cookers, it’s slightly different. All you need to clean once you’re finished cooking is the heating plate and the accessory you had your egg in. Here is how you do it:

• Wash the egg cooker lid and accessories you used for cooking with warm, soapy water.
• Use a wet cloth to wipe down the heating plate. (Do not wash it under the water jet!)
• Use the same damp cloth to clean the cooker.

In my opinion, from a cleanliness point of view, an egg cooker is much faster and easier to clean than all the pans and pots you’d normally use for cooking eggs.

Is an Egg Cooker Worth It?

Now that you know what an egg cooker is and how it’s used, you might be wondering whether you should get one. If you usually eat a lot of eggs throughout the week, then it’s much faster to cook them with an egg cooker.

For anyone with a big family, an egg cooker is definitely a must-have kitchen tool. It will get you the desired results every time, with minimum effort, and you will never worry about having to keep an eye on the eggs at all times.

For the non-egg-thusiasts out there, maybe it is not a worthy investment, but if you have at least an egg every morning, then it will be worth it.

Where Do I Get an Egg Cooker?

There are a couple of egg cookers that can really up your egg game, such as the Deluxe Dash Rapid Egg Cooker which will let you boil up to 12 eggs, make omelets, poach eggs and even steam veggies and dumplings for around $30.

Dash Deluxe Egg Cooker, 12 Hard Boiled Eggs, Aqua

• Eggs in a Dash: In less time than it takes to boil...
• Effortless Cooking Experience: Enjoy perfectly cooked...
• Easy-to-Store Electric Egg Cooker: The egg cooker...
• Quick Cleanup Guaranteed: Designed to be easy to clean...

See on Amazon

A smaller egg cooker that does its job perfectly is the Alcyoneus Noise-Free Rapid Egg Cooker, for $26.99. This one is great for cooking up to 7 eggs at a time, and it’s amazing for its price point. 

Is an Egg Cooker Worth Your Money?

There are various types of egg cookers. Some of them can have up to two racks, which allows you to boil eggs on one, and steam veggies on the other. Considering the average price of an egg cooker, I would argue that it is definitely worth buying if you like to indulge into some delicious and simple egg dishes every now and then.

The post Are Egg Cookers Worth It? appeared first on HomelyVille.

Microwave ovens are no different in that regard. When using one, you’re bound to hear lots of strange sounds coming from the inside that could signal that something’s wrong. This article will help you figure out why your microwave is making that noise and how you can fix it.

Types of Noises Microwaves Make

Like any other kitchen appliance, the microwave makes its fair share of sounds. Broadly speaking, they fall into one of two categories:

• Regular, benign noises
• Abnormal noises

Anyone who’s used a microwave for over a month can tell you what the regular noises might be. Its recognizable hum is usually even and rather low. However, it can get a bit more intense if you use a high-temperature setting. The hums will also differ between the heating and the defrosting processes.

Also, let’s not forget the well-known “ding!” that signals your food is ready. Newer microwaves also tend to use a series of beeps to signal the same thing.

But those are all regular noises a microwave makes. So what are the abnormal ones like? Well, in general, they consist of:

• Unusually loud humming
• Buzzing
• Grinding
• High-pitched “squealing”
• Popping, crackling, or clicking

If and when you hear any of those sounds, it’s time to take a good look at your microwave.

Most microwaves have a similar mechanical setup. Therefore, if you hear some abnormal noises, more often than not they’ll be coming from the same group of basic parts. Luckily, they are easy to reach and remove if you’d like to try some DIY repairs or replacements.

How to Repair a Noisy Microwave: 6 Potential Issues

Drive Motor Making Noise

Microwaves use a motor-driven coupler to rotate the turntable in either direction. Since this motor is doing a lot of the heavy lifting, it is one of the parts that are most likely to wear out. Most often, a clicking sound will alert you of a drive motor problem. However, it can produce other abnormal sounds as well, like hissing and grinding.

First, unplug the oven and open it. In order to reach the drive motor, you have to remove the oven’s appliance cabinet. That means taking off the turntable and all the supporting components beneath it. Usually, the drive motor is located underneath, at the bottom of the microwave, and it’s secured there by screws and wires.

Next, carefully remove the motor and test it for continuity. In order to do that, you will need a multimeter — simply turn the multimeter knob to the highest setting and touch the terminals with the probes. If your microwave’s drive motor is working fine, the multimeter reading should be zero. Otherwise, you might have to think about getting a replacement motor.

Drive Coupler Noise

The drive coupler is located underneath the turntable tray, and it connects directly to the motor. And since it’s the part that does a lot of turning, noise issues are inevitable. For example, if the base of the coupler has a crack in it, the coupler will make a “squealing” sound. Other noises might come from couplers that are either worn out or discolored due to frequent use.

Unplug the microwave oven and open it, then remove the turntable tray. The coupler should be right underneath it. You will recognize it since it looks similar to the three-pronged radiation warning symbol (a trefoil).

Your next job is to remove the coupler and inspect it. With some microwave models, that’s easy, since you can just pop it out. But other models might require you to disassemble the bottom of the microwave and take the coupler out with the motor attached to it.

Next, examine the coupler carefully. Look for any damage or signs of wear and tear. Alternatively, check if there’s a significant amount of dirt or grime under the coupler. More often than not, it will make a din simply because there’s a dirt build-up from prolonged use.

If the problem is simply dirt or grime, rinse the coupler well and let it dry before reattaching it to the motor. However, if you spot any cracks, scratches, and other external damage, you will need to buy a new coupler as soon as possible.

Magnetron Noise

If neither the motor nor the coupler is the source of the noise, you should check the magnetron. This part, with its high-voltage circuit, is what generates heat inside of the microwave. It’s also the source of the regular, benign humming that all microwave ovens make.

Magnetron issues are easy to spot, since it usually makes an unusually loud humming sound when it’s faulty. However, buzzing is also a pretty strong indicator of a magnetron-related issue.

Start by unplugging the microwave and opening it. Next, remove the cabinet and take out the magnetron. There are several key steps to doing that, and they are as follows:

• Discharge the magnetron’s high-voltage capacitor
• Verify that the mounting bolts are tight
• Make sure that the high-voltage diode is working (I will go over the diode a little later).

If there are no issues during these three steps, you can proceed to check the magnetron itself. You will need your multimeter again for this process. First off, set it to Rx1 and then touch one of the probes to a terminal and the other to the magnetron’s metal housing. All of this is to test that there isn’t any continuity. Next, use both probes on the terminals; if the reading is between 2–3 ohms, the magnetron is working properly.

If any of the tests above show a different result to the ones listed, you will need to purchase a new magnetron.

High-Voltage Diode Noise

The high-voltage diode is a part of the high-voltage system of the microwave, together with the capacitor and the magnetron. If there’s an unusually loud humming, most people check the magnetron, but the noise could be coming from this diode alone.

Since this is a high-voltage part, make sure that the microwave is unplugged before you start doing anything. The next step is more or less similar to removing the magnetron. You’ll need to open the microwave’s cabinet and discharge the high-voltage capacitor. Next, remove the diode and prepare the multimeter for continuity checks.

Once again, you should set the multimeter to Rx1. Next, touch the probes to the terminals of the diode, and then do the same but with the probes now reversed. A working diode will show continuity only in one direction. If it shows continuity in both directions (or doesn’t show any), you’ll need to replace the part with a new diode.

Roller Guide Noise

Grinding sounds and minor crackling can be caused by a faulty roller guide. This is the part that connects to the drive coupler and helps the tray spin without friction. Because of its location, the roller guide is the most likely part to suffer physical damage, such as cracks or wear and tear. However, it’s also the easiest part to replace.  

After unplugging the microwave, open it and remove the glass tray. Next, inspect the roller thoroughly; check if there are any cracks, discoloration, or signs of wear. Moreover, inspect the wheels and check if they are rolling without any resistance. If you notice any issues, you will have to replace the roller guide altogether.

Cooling Fan Noise

With the magnetron heating the oven, it needs constant cooling so it doesn’t overheat — which is where the cooling fan comes in. Usually, these fans are silent, but if there’s an issue, they can produce loud hums.

After unplugging the microwave, open the cabinet to access the fan. It’s located behind the fan assembly cover, which you will have to remove. Next, make sure to clean off any debris or dust that might have accumulated on the fan’s blades. Once it’s clean enough, check the blades and the fan’s mechanism for any signs of wear and tear.

Should you spot any damage, you’ll need to get a new fan. In the case of debris, you can simply clean it up with a blow-drier or cotton swabs.

Dealing With Other Noises

More often than not, you will hear noises that have nothing to do with the parts listed above. For instance, the microwave’s door can shake to the point where it’s making a rattling sound. Normally, that means the door is loose. If that’s the case, remove it and inspect the hinges and the spacers for any signs of wear or damage. If you spot any, replace those parts as soon as possible.

Crackling and popping noises can also come from the food you place in the microwave. That’s not abnormal, but if the popping is too loud, you’re probably not microwaving your food correctly. Always cover anything that you’re trying to warm up so that the food doesn’t start to spurt everywhere because of the heat. In addition, clean the tray and the inside walls of the oven since leftover food can crackle and damage the electrical components.

Repairing a Noisy Microwave or Buying a New One?

Minor issues will require minor repairs; however, sometimes the replacement parts (and their installation) can be quite expensive. At that point, you should get rid of the old microwave and buy a new one.

You can always get a basic one online at a reasonable price and with a long warranty.

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Final Thoughts

Noisy microwave ovens actually work perfectly fine 90% of the time. However, that doesn’t mean that you have to put up with a cacophony of rattles and hums every time you want to reheat your soup.

The tips listed above will definitely help you reduce the noise to a minimum and enjoy your kitchen time with only a pleasant hum in the background.

The post How to Fix a Noisy Microwave (Causes & Repair) appeared first on HomelyVille.

If you use your kettle on a daily basis, you are already familiar with the salt-like scales floating around and limescale build-up. Water deposits piling up inside can negatively affect the performance of your kettle and shorten its lifespan. As a result, you’ll find that water takes much longer to boil and that your beverages don’t taste as good as they should.

To help you tackle this problem, here are a few tips on how to clean an electric kettle and get rid of limescale.

Commercial Descalers for Cleaning Electric Kettles

Commercial descalers are incredibly powerful, albeit less eco-friendly than all-natural ones. You can find a variety of descalers at any grocery store at different prices. Although they might be a bit more expensive than homemade solutions, they are efficient and dissolve limescale swiftly.

QuickShine Descaler Bags

There is a wide range of drop-in descaler bags on the market for you to choose from. They work like magic and remove scales quickly and with ease. However, the majority of commercial descalers contain potentially toxic chemicals and acids.

QuickShine Descaler Bags, on the other hand, contain no toxic substances and are environmentally friendly. The strongest compound in this descaler is just concentrated lemon juice. The bags are perfectly safe to use in kettles, coffee machines, and other steam appliances.

Just boil some water in your kettle, pop a sachet in, and wait for it to fizz. In twenty-five minutes, your kettle will be as good as new. Rinse it thoroughly, and enjoy the “brand new” look.

Oust Descaler

Oust is another popular descaler. Its chemical formula is specifically designed to remove limescale from small household appliances quickly and effortlessly. With this super-fast descaling solution, your kettle will be restored and ready to use within ten minutes. Half-fill the kettle, bring it to boil, and add a bag of Oust. Let it sit for around ten minutes and rinse it thoroughly.

If you still notice scales, reheat the water, but don’t boil it. That should remove any leftover scales. Keep in mind that this is a powerful descaler, and it may cause skin and eye irritation. Handle it with care, and avoid skin contact.

Popular Liquid Descalers

Liquid descalers are another popular option for cleaning kitchen appliances. They provide a hassle-free descaling solution and decalcify appliances swiftly. Most of them work equally well with metal and plastic kettles and can be used for a variety of appliances. However, some are less eco-friendly than others, so choose wisely.

Durgol’s Universal Fast Decalcifier is one of the most popular descalers on the market. It works as well kettles as it does with shower heads. The large economy pack of Durgol Universal has powerful descaling properties and anti-corrosion agents to further protect your kettle. The odorless liquid is non-hazardous, food-safe, and it leaves no residue after rinsing. Read the back of the bottle for instructions, and enjoy the as-good-as-new shine of your kettle.

De’Longhi offers a more eco-friendly option. Its EcoDecalk descaling liquid is non-polluting, biodegradable, and completely natural. It’s intended for cleaning all types of coffee machines, but it works incredibly well with kettles, too. The best part is that the packaging is also eco-friendly and recyclable.

Natural Cleaning Solutions for Electric Kettles

Vinegar Solution

You can make your own mighty tool for fighting scales with a household staple — vinegar. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar, and fill about half of the kettle. Bring the liquid to boil, unplug the kettle, and leave it for at least half an hour. The longer you let the solution sit, the better the results. Afterward, discard it and rinse the inside of the kettle until there are no signs of scales.

You can use the rough side of a sponge to remove any stubborn spots. To prevent the strong odor of vinegar from lingering, fill the kettle with water, and bring it to boil once more.

Lemon Juice

If you don’t like the smell of vinegar and would rather avoid it, try lemon juice instead. The lemon’s acidity softens and dissolves limescale and leaves your kettle smelling fresh as ever. Simply add 30 ml of lemon juice to 500 ml of water, pour the solution in the kettle, and bring it to boil. Again, the longer you let it sit, the better.

Lastly, pour the juice out, gently scrub away any remaining lime, and rinse the kettle. There’s no need for any further boiling if you enjoy the zesty scent of lemons.

Baking Soda

Bicarbonate of soda is not just used for baking. This natural and affordable powder can help you remove odors, grease, and stains, and clean just about anything. Baking soda will dissolve limescale from your kettle and bring back its shine.

Fill your kettle with water, add a few tablespoons of baking soda, and let it simmer. Unplug the kettle once the solution boils and let it sit for as long as you can. Finally, pour out the liquid and rinse the kettle thoroughly. Baking soda is odorless, so there’s no need to worry about any lingering smell.

To remove minor limescale stains, you can simply let a few tablespoons of baking soda sit at the bottom of a dry kettle for a few minutes. Then, use a smooth cloth to gently scrub the inside and remove any remaining scales.

Citric Acid

Citric acid is another efficient descaling agent that helps remove water deposits. Moreover, it’s an all-natural, eco-friendly descaler you probably already have in your kitchen.

First, fill the tank halfway with water, and bring it to boil. Then, add two tablespoons of citric acid and let the mixture cool down. Finally, empty the kettle and wash it thoroughly.

Citric acid is not only safe but it removes bacteria and mold. Moreover, it smells much better than vinegar.

Sodas

Coca Cola and Pepsi contain carbonic acid, which contributes to their seemingly miraculous cleaning powers. Some leftover, flat soda will give your kettle a complete makeover.

First, fill the kettle halfway with soda and boil away. Then, once it boils, leave it for at least half an hour. Soon enough, you’ll see the scales start to come off. Again, rinse with fresh water to remove any lingering scent.

How to Prevent Limescale Buildup in Your Kettle

Don’t Leave Water in the Kettle

After making a cup of tea or some ramen, try not to leave any water in the kettle. The habit of leaving a full tank increases the number of mineral deposits building up. Instead, try boiling only the amount of water you need or pour away the rest.

Use Distilled Water

Distilled water is purified water made by boiling regular water and collecting the vapor. This process removes all deposits and leaves no minerals that can build up inside your kettle. Distilled water is ideal if you live in an area with particularly hard water. Also, it’s inexpensive and you can find it in any grocery store, or even make your own.

Use a Scale Collector

A scale collector is a stainless steel ball that you keep in your kettle while boiling water. The collector attracts minerals that would otherwise pile up inside the kettle.

That way, it prevents limescale from forming so you don’t need to worry about cleaning your kettle as often. For optimal results, wash the collector under a stream of cold water after every use.

Install a Water Softener

If you live in an area with particularly hard water, there’s little you can do to prevent limescale from forming. However, there are some alternatives to constantly cleaning your kettle and all other appliances. For example, water softeners are particularly popular in areas with hard water.

Most water softeners are easy to install and require little maintenance. They are energy efficient, demineralize water, and eliminate the chance of mineral deposits building up. They are not only beneficial for your kettle but also a great way to improve the overall quality of the water you’re consuming.

Regular Cleaning

Regular maintenance and proper cleaning are key to preventing damage and extending the lifespan of your kettle. Whatever method you choose, it’s vital to clean your kettle according to the frequency of use and water quality in your area.

Usually, descaling the kettle every few months is enough. Still, if the water in your area is particularly hard and you use the kettle frequently, you should clean it every month.

Additionally, don’t forget to also clean the exterior of your kettle to keep it looking shiny and new. To polish a stainless steel kettle you’ll need only a cloth and some olive oil. Simply drip some oil on the cloth, and give the exterior a nice rub for a lovely shine. Repeat this weekly.

For plastic kettles, warm water and soap will do.

Keep Your Kettle in Good Shape

To sum up, proper maintenance is vital to keeping your kettle in good shape and your beverages and food tasting as good as ever. These tips on how to clean an electric kettle are here to help you prevent minerals from piling up and to get rid of them once they do. A clean kettle uses less energy, boils water much more quickly and silently, and lasts longer. Choose the most convenient method for you, and you’ll never see a white scale floating around in your cup of coffee ever again.

The post How to Clean an Electric Kettle and Get Rid of Limescale appeared first on HomelyVille.

If your answer was yes to these questions, you’ve come to the right place for answers. Let’s take a look at what the pros and cons of both of these models are and figure out which one would be the best fit for you.

Standard Depth Refrigerators

Since refrigerators became a common appliance in most homes in the 1930s, people have been using the standard depth type. And since they’re so popular, chances are, most of you grew up using them in your homes. But what exactly is a standard depth fridge and who is it for?

Features

Most often, standard depth fridges are about 3 feet wide and usually weigh around 300 lbs (give or take a 100 lbs, depending on the model). Most of them have a capacity of 100l. Nowadays, standard depth fridges come in a wide variety of sizes, colors, and with different features.

If you want a standard depth-fridge, you can get it with or without a freezer, with single or French doors. What’s more, numerous modern fridges have ice or water dispensers built-in, and you can even connect some of them to your wireless network.

But perhaps the biggest difference between standard and counter fridges is in the depth. Traditional fridges tend to be around 36 inches deep, which means they usually don’t fit in-line with countertops.

Another major difference between the two models is their price and availability. Since standard-depth fridges have been popular for such a long time, they’re easier to find and buy. What’s more, standard depth-fridges come in a bigger variety of sizes and colors.

Since they’re so widespread, you can get them in most stores and at a great price. In fact, standard-depth fridges are usually much cheaper compared to their counter-depth counterparts.

Drawbacks

The first drawback of standard-depth refrigerators is their size. Since they’re so deep, they can disrupt your kitchen flow and make it feel less uniform. What’s more, they tend to take up more floor space compared to counter-depth fridges.

Counter-Depth Refrigerators

Counter-depth refrigerators have become increasingly popular in the past few years. They’re chic, sleek, and you can fit them in almost any kitchen. They are designed to be in-line with kitchen countertops and aren’t as deep as standard-depth fridges.

Features

Most counter-depth fridges are about 24 to 30 inches deep, making them less spacious compared to standard-depth models. On the other hand, what they lack in depth, they make up for in height.

In fact, most models are around 69 inches high, with the biggest ones coming in at 72 inches. But since the sizes vary a lot from one manufacturer to the next, make sure you take precise measurements when buying a counter-depth fridge. Since they’re so high, I wouldn’t recommend placing them under wall cabinets.

Counter-depth fridges also tend to be wider compared to the standard models. Nowadays, most models are around 34 inches wide so they make up for their depth. But no matter the height and depth, the most important thing you need to look for is the capacity.

Depending on the manufacturer and model, counter-depth fridges come in a wide variety of capacities. Most of them can fit as much if not more compared to any standard-depth model.

Because of their unique design and size, they can fit in most kitchens. What’s more, they’ll give your kitchen a beautiful, uniform look and you’ll have a much better flow.

Drawbacks

Even though they have a sleek design, they also come with a pretty price tag. Now, counter-depth fridges aren’t as expensive as built-in ones, but they cost more than standard-depth. If you’re working with a smaller budget, I would recommend getting the latter.

Counter-Depth Freezers

There are two types of counter-depth freezers you can get — integrated or stand-alone. If you have the space for it in your kitchen, I think that stand-alone freezers are the way to go. They have a similar, sleek design as the fridges and you can fit a lot inside.

But if you can’t spare any room in your kitchen, a freezer that’s integrated with the fridge is your best option. One thing to keep in mind is that they aren’t as large, so you won’t have much storage space.

Counter-Depth Wine Coolers

For all of you wine-lovers out there, you’ll be happy to know that you can even buy counter-depth wine coolers. Most homeowners install them as a part of their kitchen islands. But since they have such a unique design, you can put them almost anywhere.

Just be careful when looking at counter-depth wine coolers because they can vary a lot in size and capacity. If you want to keep a large number of bottles chilled at all times, I recommend getting a stand-alone wine cooler, instead of an integrated one.

Built-In Refrigerators

Built-in refrigerators could be the perfect choice for those who love modern, high-end kitchens. They fit in seamlessly in most kitchens and offer a lot of storage room. But their unique design comes with a pretty big price tag.

Features

Just like counter-depth models, built-in fridges fit perfectly in-line with most countertops and they’re only 24 inches deep. However, they’re usually pretty wide and high so that they can make up for how shallow they are.

In fact, they can be as wide as 48 inches, which is significantly more compared to standard-depth models, which are usually 36 inches wide. Even though they have a stunning design, they aren’t without their drawbacks.

Drawbacks

The biggest issue with built-in fridges is their price. Even compared to counter-depth models, they are much more expensive and they can set you back a few thousand dollars.

What’s more, they are pretty difficult to install and move. I wouldn’t recommend getting a built-in fridge if you plan on moving in the future, because it won’t be worth the hassle.

Fitting a Refrigerator

First, start by unpacking your fridge outside if possible. Don’t throw away the boxes for the first few days, just until you’ve made sure that the fridge is working fine.

Then, using a hand truck or dolly, bring the fridge inside. The easiest way to do that is by tilting the fridge slightly so that the weight is evenly balanced. Never transport the fridge while it’s on its side or upside down because you could damage the cooling mechanism that’s inside.

If your fridge is too wide and can’t fit through the doors, you can always take the bolts off it. But remember to check your users manual first, to see exactly how to remove them.

Installing a Refrigerator

To avoid those costly installation fees, you can do it yourself. The process is pretty simple and it shouldn’t take you more than an hour to do it. Once you have your fridge inside the kitchen, slide it where you want it to be. But you have to make sure to leave a gap big enough so you can get behind it.

Then, wire your power and water lines, leaving enough space for them to fit closely to your wall. If you’ve removed the doors or trays from the fridge, start putting them back in. Once you’re sure you have everything hooked up, plug it into a power outlet and close it.

Cleaning and Maintaining Your Refrigerator

If you want your fridge to last you a long time, you need to clean it often and do proper maintenance. You can clean it thoroughly at least once a month, or when your food rations are running low. Start by taking out all of the food, shelves, and drawers from it and grab a sponge and some dish soap.

You can clean the majority of your fridge with dish soap, but for tougher spills, I recommend a 1:5 ammonia and water solution. If your shelves are still cold, don’t run them under hot water because the sudden temperature drop could shatter the glass.

Also, don’t use strong-scented soaps for the inside of the fridge because your food could absorb the smell. If you’ve noticed loud noises coming from your fridge, take care of them right away. The longer you wait, the worse the problem could get.

Final Thoughts

Before you decide which fridge is right for you, there’s a couple of things you need to consider. First, you need to look at the size and depth of the fridge to figure out what would work best for your household and kitchen.

You also have to think about cost and availability. Standard-depth fridges are more popular, easier to find, and can come with more features. But they will stick out beyond your counters and disrupt your kitchen flow. So, are you willing to pay a bit extra to get that seamless, uniform look with the counter-depth fridge?

If neither the counter-depth nor the standard fridges work for you, you should take a look at built-ins. They are more expensive compared to the other two types but will give your kitchen that modern, high-end look.

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