7 Things Plumbers Say You Should Never Pour Down a Drain
Sometimes we pour things down the drain without a second thought. Other times, we do it and realize we shouldn’t have after its too late.Pouring the wrong things down a drain can lead to a plumbing nightmare.You can avoid a plumbing disaster with a little knowledge. There are some things you should never pour down a drain.Take time to understand why certain things are so detrimental to your pipes and you’ll save yourself time and money repairing the problem. Not to mention, a plumbing emergency that can wreak havoc on you home’s other systems and your foundation.If you’re a homeowner, you need to become a drain expert. Learn how to avoid inconvenient and costly backups or pipe damage, and bigger potential issues.Prioritize your pipes so they provide you with years of perfect use. 1. Grease builds up inside pipes and can clog them. Greases like those from meats, and oils like coconut oil, cool when they solidify, which can clog pipes.If you run hot water down the drain, you might melt the grease but it will just settle somewhere else and cause a clog.To prevent pipe problems, let grease cool and then throw it in the trash. 2. Coffee Grounds Don’t empty your k-cup, French press, or coffee filters in your sink. Throw them in the trash or use them as nourishment for your plants (coffee grounds are acidic and boost soil acidity, providing nutrients and deterring pests). You an also add them to compost.Coffee grounds, even a little, can build up over time. 3. Egg Shells Can cause major blockage, even little pieces of shells. They can get stuck on gunk in your pipes and their sharp edges will catch other pieces of kitchen refusing, turning a small buildup into a major clog.Toss them into the trash or your compost bin. 4. Fibrous Foods Cooked pasta, potato peels, broccoli, and other fiber-rich foods, once broken down, love to cling to the inside of pipes. The fibrous material will build and build until its formed a clog that will be difficult to deal with.Throw these foods in the trash or compost bin. 5. “Flushable” Wipes It may be obvious that you shouldn’t throw flushable wipes into a sink, but experts advise that you NEVER flush them down the toilet. They don’t break down easily and can get caught on anything clinging to the inside of your pipes, causing an even bigger mess and a huge backup that will likely be costly.Ignore what the label says and don’t flush; throw these wipes into your bathroom trash and then outside. 6. Paper Products Toilet paper is the only paper product that should go in the toilet. It is designed specifically to disintegrate in water. Even soft tissue paper can clog your pipes. And, definitely no paper towels, cotton balls, make-up pads, or other bathroom-oriented paper products.Properly dispose of these items in your bathroom trash and then in your outdoor trash receptacle. 7. Feminine Hygiene Products Do not flush personal hygiene wipes, tampons, maxi pads, or other feminine products down the toilet, even if they say they’re flushable. Dispose of these items in your bathroom trashcan and then in your outdoor trash receptacle.Are you looking to sell or buy a new home? Let Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate® walk you through the process. The post 7 Things Plumbers Say You Should Never Pour Down a Drain appeared first on Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life.
19 Kitchen Backsplash Ideas for the Ultimate Accent Wall
Wondering how to bring that “Wow” factor to your kitchen? Look at your backsplash. There are dozens of ways to transform this often-neglected area into something more than merely functional. From bold colors and uniquely shaped tiles to daring grout options and unexpected materials, you have near-endless resources for creating a striking visual effect that will make you want to spend hours in your kitchen.Below are 19 kitchen backsplash ideas for the ultimate accent wall.1. Carrara MarbleCarrara marble is a luxurious choice for a kitchen backsplash, especially when applied in a large format—like giant slabs—making it look like your walls have disappeared. In white, Carrara marble brightens a space, providing sleek elegance. Black is the perfect choice for high-end drama.2. Elongated Hexagon TilesHexagon tiles can look retro or modern—classic or funky—depending on their size and color. Opt for a fun twist on your everyday hexagon variety by buying an elongated tile and laying it in a vertical pattern.3. Countertop-to-Ceiling TilesTake your pick of subway, triangular, hexagon, or other-shaped tiles but bring them to the ceiling for a striking and creative visual effect.4. Picket TileConsider a picket tile look by choosing a hexagon-shaped ceramic tile with lots of texture to create the illusion of movement or three-dimensional space.5. Triangular TilesTriangular tiles provide visual interest and show off creative styling, especially when paired with a simple countertop and cabinetry. Create a custom pattern to complement your design style, whether farmhouse, Mid-Century Modern, or contemporary.6. Black Tile with White GroutGo with a black matte tile in any shape and use bright grout—a surefire option for a statement kitchen accent wall. Round out the look with light wood cabinets and gold hardware.7. Colorful Tile BacksplashPlay with pastels like pink or teal—or warm things up with yellow and orange—just focus on color to draw the eye and lighten the mood.8. Uniquely Patterned TilesThink about the most beautifully patterned floors you’ve seen, such as those featuring painted Spanish or Moroccan tiles. Now, move the look to your walls. But contrast the tile’s complexity by sticking to minimalist cabinetry.9. Graphic Behind-the-Stove BacksplashOpt for a simple, low backsplash throughout your kitchen but go all out behind the stove with graphic tiles that bring attention to a fabulous range and range hood.10. Black and GoldChoose black and gold mosaic tile—or black tile with gold grout—for a dramatic, daring, luxurious, and one-of-a-kind look.11. Classic HerringboneDoes herringbone ever go out of style? We think not. Create a French-inspired kitchen with white herringbone tile and don’t be afraid to go with a unique grout color like burnt orange.12. Jewel-Toned Hexagon TilesSapphire blue or emerald green hexagon tiles—small or large, glossy or matte—paired with a white countertop and cabinetry produce a striking effect perfect for a designer kitchen.13. Black and White MarbleA black-and-white kitchen can be elegant, sleek, or edgy, depending on your choice of materials and styling. When done in marble, you have an instantly luxurious look—but make sure you choose a slab with bold and dramatic veins.14. Subway TilesIf you’re going to do subway tiles, make sure they stand out. Mustard yellow and navy blue are great options for a fresh take on the subway look. Choosing the same blue for your cabinetry brings your kitchen to the next level, as does opting for dark, warm wood cabinets to go with your mustard tiles.15. Mirror TilesLarge mirrored tiles give a backsplash a sophisticated 1970s appeal, bringing a bit of unexpected glamour. Finish the look with black cabinetry and in- or under-cabinet lighting.16. Copper BacksplashYou have many options for a copper backsplash: subway tiles, hammered tiles, copper sheeting, and more. Copper backsplashes are warm and inviting, and they elevate a kitchen by giving it old-world flair (real copper has antimicrobial properties, too).17. Black SlateBlack slate instantly adds a touch of luxury. Choose textured or sleek slate tiles and turn to light wood options for your cabinets.18. Brick BacksplashBrick can look as beautiful inside as outside. It goes well with detailed or sleek cabinetry, perfect for a classic or industrial kitchen. Brick adds texture and warmth, and offers a beautiful rustic or earthy vibe.19. Geometric TilesBlack and white is a great color combination for geometric tiles, but you can also create a “Wow” factor with bold blue or gorgeous gold and white. This high-impact look is perfect for all kitchens: Mid-Century Modern, retro, contemporary, and more.Are you looking to sell or buy a new home? Let Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate® walk you through the process.The post 19 Kitchen Backsplash Ideas for the Ultimate Accent Wall appeared first on Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life.
Home Trends: Millenials and Minimalism in 2025
In the world of home design, minimalism has become a defining trend for millennials, who are drawn to the serene simplicity of clutter-free spaces. As this generation navigates busy lives filled with career demands, technological distractions, and the constant pull of social media, minimalism offers a breath of fresh air. It’s not just a design style; it’s a lifestyle choice that reflects a desire for calm, functionality, and mindful living. What Is Minimalism? At its core, minimalism is about doing more with less. It’s a design philosophy that strips away excess and focuses on essential, high-quality elements that serve both form and function. For millennials, this approach feels especially relevant as they prioritize wellness, simplicity, and sustainability in their homes. Minimalism isn’t about stark, empty spaces; rather, it’s about intentional design. Every piece has a purpose, and every room promotes a sense of calm. From clean lines and neutral color palettes to open floor plans and multi-functional furniture, minimalism allows millennials to create spaces that feel organized, peaceful, and aesthetically pleasing. Key Features of Minimalism for 2025 In 2025, the minimalist movement continues to be shaped by millennial tastes. Here’s what defines minimalist homes for this generation: Monotone and Muted Color Palettes Millennials are opting for calming tones like greys, beiges, soft whites, and other neutral shades. These colors create a soothing atmosphere that’s free of visual clutter, allowing residents to relax and recharge after long days. Clean Lines and Simple Shapes In keeping with their minimalist mindset, millennials prefer furniture with clean, straight lines and simple shapes. There’s a focus on modern aesthetics, where furnishings are functional but unobtrusive. The result is a room that feels sleek and airy without unnecessary ornamentation. Open Floor Plans Minimalism thrives in open spaces, and millennials are especially drawn to homes that offer open floor plans. These layouts enhance the sense of flow between rooms, making small spaces feel larger and more connected. The lack of walls and partitions also creates an opportunity for multifunctional living areas. Multi-Functional Furniture Millennials value efficiency in their homes, so it’s no surprise that multi-functional furniture is a staple in their minimalist design. Pieces like fold-out tables, modular sofas, and beds with built-in storage maximize utility without crowding the space. Minimalism is not about having less, but about having smarter, more versatile pieces that work harder for the homeowner. Blank Walls and Mindful Decor While maximalism embraces gallery walls and statement art, minimalism takes the opposite approach. Millennials tend to leave walls bare or sparsely decorated, favoring one or two pieces of art that have personal meaning or add to the overall aesthetic. This leaves space to breathe and prevents the room from feeling busy. Why Millennials Love Minimalism For millennials, minimalism goes beyond the aesthetic — it’s a reflection of their values. This generation is more focused on experiences over material possessions and is wary of accumulating unnecessary “stuff.” Minimalism aligns perfectly with this mindset, as it promotes thoughtful consumption, sustainability, and the idea that less truly can be more. Minimalism also speaks to the millennial focus on mental well-being. In a world that often feels chaotic, a minimalist home provides a haven of calm and tranquility. The lack of clutter and distraction creates a space that’s easy to manage and visually relaxing. It’s no wonder millennials are gravitating toward this style, as it allows them to create homes that feel like a retreat from their busy lives. How to Bring Minimalism Into Your Home Ready to embrace the minimalist trend? Here’s how to get started: Declutter with Intention: The first step toward a minimalist home is decluttering. Go through your belongings and keep only what serves a purpose or brings joy. Remember, minimalism is about quality over quantity. Embrace Neutral Tones: Use a base of soft, neutral colors to create a calm and cohesive feel throughout your home. Think greys, beiges, and whites that allow natural light to bounce through the space. Invest in Multi-Functional Pieces: Opt for furniture that can do double duty, such as storage ottomans or modular seating, to maximize space without overcrowding the room. Simplify Your Decor: Choose a few meaningful decor pieces instead of filling every surface. A single, well-placed item can make a bigger impact than a cluttered shelf. Looking for a home that fits your minimalist lifestyle? Start your search with us today or connect with one of our experienced agents to help you find the perfect space to make your own. Minimalism’s Impact on Home Buying in 2025 Minimalism isn’t just shaping home decor — it’s influencing home buying trends, too. As we move into 2025, millennials are seeking homes that align with their minimalist values. They’re drawn to properties with open layouts, lots of natural light, and spaces that allow for personalization without excess. Many millennial homebuyers are also considering sustainability when purchasing a home. Minimalism often goes hand-in-hand with eco-conscious living, meaning that homes with energy-efficient features, sustainable materials, and smart technology are increasingly appealing to this generation. If you’re looking to purchase a home that reflects your minimalist ethos, consider homes with open-concept designs, natural lighting, and flexible spaces that can be adapted to your needs. Whether you’re looking for a small city apartment or a peaceful suburban home, our real estate experts are here to help you find the perfect fit. Minimalism is more than a design trend — it’s a way of life. And as lifestyle experts, we’re here to guide you in creating a home that reflects your values and preferences. Whether you’re downsizing your belongings, updating your space, or buying a new home, minimalism offers a path to mindful, intentional living.
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