Four Week "Wait-No-More" Organizing Challenge! Week 3 - Master Bathroom Grout Renew

I still have plenty to get done to hit my deadline of having <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/06/four-week-wait-no-more-organizing_23.html" target="_blank">a completely organized master bathroom</a> by the end of the day.  But I thought I would stop in quick and share a quick review and tutorial of how I handled our gross grout situation.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimOlvOgn_7jpcI2H1fKqHyHZ5T_T4ndxIKvotAku2gE7x88hJTLqG4f9VO_mPX-E9lzSsloYY0GbV-kloj_f51sJHXPc8pdUHslEpI_WbTLfeiyvnc1qyFWloTkt-HwVHBmdK8exGUb0M/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimOlvOgn_7jpcI2H1fKqHyHZ5T_T4ndxIKvotAku2gE7x88hJTLqG4f9VO_mPX-E9lzSsloYY0GbV-kloj_f51sJHXPc8pdUHslEpI_WbTLfeiyvnc1qyFWloTkt-HwVHBmdK8exGUb0M/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_6.jpg" /></a></div><br />The bathroom grout is about 8-9 years old and was originally done in a white color.  And it was never sealed.  Seal your grout right away people, this was a huge mistake we made.  Over the years, it has become dirty, dingy and impossible to keep clean as grime absorbed deep into the unsealed grout.  Because I was emptying the bathroom to sort, purge and organize, I knew it was now or never to check this project off of the list.  After some quick Googling, I discovered a product called <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Custom-Building-Products-Polyblend-381-8-oz-Bright-White-Grout-Renew-Colorant-GCL381HPT/203498062" target="_blank">Grout Renew</a>.  We were the perfect candidates for this product as it is intended to easily restore and seal old, dirty grout.  Count me in!<br /><br />This is NOT sponsored, I completely opted to research and do this myself after becoming sick of scrubbing clean our bathroom floors.  Off to Home Depot I went and picked up a bottle of Grout Renew in Delorean Gray.  They have limited colors at our store, but as I was just looking online, it appears they have an endless variety of shades.  Learn from me, they have just about any color you would want online!  Doh!  Now you know.<br /><br />I stood at the store and read the directions on the back of the bottle, and it recommended using one of their products to get the floors super clean prior to application.  Even though I have done my share of tile and grout scrubbing, I decided to use <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Custom-Building-Products-TileLab-1-lb-Sulfamic-Acid-Cleaner-TLSAC1/100171510" target="_blank">the recommended cleaner</a> just to be sure I was happy with the end result.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Vu_6zfc6WOwOfL3fyEW9aJHq-nA6g7JU_GbcHuoIsqdXmZ2rtOMJFypt-Irsyq2QOIkRNwC5f3kynCoJ6b78rJ18lk-eq8T-zVCLrTBpyZ00ouhobZMydaki7YxkMchVVtM0D3hD4-w/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Vu_6zfc6WOwOfL3fyEW9aJHq-nA6g7JU_GbcHuoIsqdXmZ2rtOMJFypt-Irsyq2QOIkRNwC5f3kynCoJ6b78rJ18lk-eq8T-zVCLrTBpyZ00ouhobZMydaki7YxkMchVVtM0D3hD4-w/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_1.jpg" /></a></div><br />This stuff is on the strong side, so it is recommended that you use gloves while scrubbing.  But first, a before close-up of the grout.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq_3qEACBaKLPgoUlxSkZ8D6z25yuqAnAi3K5fkUNq3giP3qXIwY415E4hM6KfnyKRRozelx_vkaMFBBrUGK0abhjKvUcDCLrHfwbvkK4k_Qw2PHAPgID8n3rTQBC1rKEBGfbwRECvOFM/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq_3qEACBaKLPgoUlxSkZ8D6z25yuqAnAi3K5fkUNq3giP3qXIwY415E4hM6KfnyKRRozelx_vkaMFBBrUGK0abhjKvUcDCLrHfwbvkK4k_Qw2PHAPgID8n3rTQBC1rKEBGfbwRECvOFM/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_4.jpg" /></a></div><br />I started by filling two mop buckets; one with a mild dishsoap water and the other with the Sulfamic Acid cleaner.  I also grabbed my gloves and a bristle scrub brush.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoX_TVsZ4Vz7QdCaYOiKKKVCNxwsBIVBE0eXiQptLC9VtZjEQwgsu2hyphenhyphenoMtZUquILlgnv2Y3CHrAocQv7IMb-vNYY7oYVJN3QsJcaPJtSDRL_wDXRwhQg46j4MHdlUmBMcbN0mkxyQUjw/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoX_TVsZ4Vz7QdCaYOiKKKVCNxwsBIVBE0eXiQptLC9VtZjEQwgsu2hyphenhyphenoMtZUquILlgnv2Y3CHrAocQv7IMb-vNYY7oYVJN3QsJcaPJtSDRL_wDXRwhQg46j4MHdlUmBMcbN0mkxyQUjw/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_3.jpg" /></a></div><br />Prior to scrubbing with the grout cleaner, I mopped the floor with the mild dishsoap to prep the surface.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgu-Hk6gO2qpbdFlBsAplSsS3oYP7nWYsZFnGityzQX9VWVb9SAfQ1M753VKGxAP00cglif95c6-nkcnuxQx7ZGr4nuAO6e2nlgi109dqCPOLjNVTg6Jo6zGVYrAYr_-Vt1q4W8koFp-I/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgu-Hk6gO2qpbdFlBsAplSsS3oYP7nWYsZFnGityzQX9VWVb9SAfQ1M753VKGxAP00cglif95c6-nkcnuxQx7ZGr4nuAO6e2nlgi109dqCPOLjNVTg6Jo6zGVYrAYr_-Vt1q4W8koFp-I/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_2.jpg" /></a></div><br />Because I was wearing gloves and just trying to get things done, I didn't take any pictures of the scrubbing process, but I essentially just scrubbed the entire floor with the cleaner and bristle brush.  I followed up with a damp mop one more time and here was the end result.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9AaHRs-fEzuThZYM9O5jxoy6em1OEZb9tVdiUISfFp54snnrJWdROQHDesowXHOBeLftyZxNyGwIS8Q5akH6KsHD1vp3W35qnlMXiRj9zEF1u56ID3WQ71tWvKWBsbUaKt8Q11aGX3SE/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9AaHRs-fEzuThZYM9O5jxoy6em1OEZb9tVdiUISfFp54snnrJWdROQHDesowXHOBeLftyZxNyGwIS8Q5akH6KsHD1vp3W35qnlMXiRj9zEF1u56ID3WQ71tWvKWBsbUaKt8Q11aGX3SE/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_5.jpg" /></a></div><br />The tiles and grout looked great, the cleaner really got things back to a nice start.  I let everything dry for a few hours while I played with the kids.<br /><br />The directions for the Grout Renew stated to place a small blob at the cross section of the tiles and work your way out.  With an opening like that, no small blob would be coming out of that bottle.  I decided to head to the kitchen and transfer the Grout Renew into a fine tip plastic squeeze bottle instead.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix536G8ZvMvZJkBQB5WDkhWUngOvoYIaT_xXabLg86ea945AKxYMCVpEXzs1v0VVPt-G0NNto0n1gS1vIP0STMSw7LTe987flWLrtsaNuzXO05IjvKtWup9M2CwSiU7ksjFL-Y47iOXAA/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix536G8ZvMvZJkBQB5WDkhWUngOvoYIaT_xXabLg86ea945AKxYMCVpEXzs1v0VVPt-G0NNto0n1gS1vIP0STMSw7LTe987flWLrtsaNuzXO05IjvKtWup9M2CwSiU7ksjFL-Y47iOXAA/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_6.jpg" /></a></div><br />I also quickly learned that a little bit goes a long way!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq1_nhD3yfOBAtopQb3QcVDBYt_ETAgxJhlgfQ_ZjMRL3qW1LcMco4MF_a0e_51du70dprjjgLoi1rYln2MnHPDvYroLu6Wsii9wAAZuv1s9K-n9nq3qN3lPOjQuqHMSuX455BPSXUmOo/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq1_nhD3yfOBAtopQb3QcVDBYt_ETAgxJhlgfQ_ZjMRL3qW1LcMco4MF_a0e_51du70dprjjgLoi1rYln2MnHPDvYroLu6Wsii9wAAZuv1s9K-n9nq3qN3lPOjQuqHMSuX455BPSXUmOo/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_7.jpg" /></a></div><br />The directions also state to use a toothbrush to spread the Grout Renew into your grout lines.  Um, no.  It makes such a big mess and spreads it everywhere.  There is zero precision with a toothbrush.  Thank goodness I had a slew of craft brushes on hand (a reader also mentioned <a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/2014/01/how-you-like-me-now-grout/" target="_blank">Young House Love did something similar</a> and a craft brush worked great for them as well).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1xNkkr8YYWyOUDLnfH2hdsMNmIpdUPaeRl4JTo19eBsvUtoetmK6M5u5CQqZ6rdtO99cYQ3mjm8YLEG9U6M004u3AxOhdTmr-HyjqH6-JrQkcE3jkpK1B6VawgIDgJHnRgnpLa2ZXUuw/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1xNkkr8YYWyOUDLnfH2hdsMNmIpdUPaeRl4JTo19eBsvUtoetmK6M5u5CQqZ6rdtO99cYQ3mjm8YLEG9U6M004u3AxOhdTmr-HyjqH6-JrQkcE3jkpK1B6VawgIDgJHnRgnpLa2ZXUuw/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_8.jpg" /></a></div><br />I still made sure to sort-of scrub it in so the grout could really absorb the new color.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGmVwLWmVKIGsN0zAUL4BwE0oJHx1-cV_kG7OINJsrVAvgUvRMpvPqK-dCasgIic1FXofR_mo57EaNl66VwoNFMLiLobf8kFVClhCO5PGBZIC2SZQErjBV68HQwyzUCTpvAhryCxhDXG4/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGmVwLWmVKIGsN0zAUL4BwE0oJHx1-cV_kG7OINJsrVAvgUvRMpvPqK-dCasgIic1FXofR_mo57EaNl66VwoNFMLiLobf8kFVClhCO5PGBZIC2SZQErjBV68HQwyzUCTpvAhryCxhDXG4/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_9.jpg" /></a></div><br />Again, nearly impossible to do without getting the product on your tiles, so be ready to follow behind each line with a damp rag.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi21ih5LaPwV8VnKpk6K8DD-jawgcfJQqHR-pSxQUpP57KM9-Vqn7J79TfTVHICNSjYz7xqQK7mcsKb-1fRqHvuQmsO3WbgMoLOqW2JIvmSnRqMai0EcTm6mHQ0U7m5Ueb_STjVh_labqg/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi21ih5LaPwV8VnKpk6K8DD-jawgcfJQqHR-pSxQUpP57KM9-Vqn7J79TfTVHICNSjYz7xqQK7mcsKb-1fRqHvuQmsO3WbgMoLOqW2JIvmSnRqMai0EcTm6mHQ0U7m5Ueb_STjVh_labqg/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_10.jpg" /></a></div><br />Speaking of the damp rag, the wetter the rag, the more the product will smear while touching up.  It seemed to work better to let the Grout Renew set for a minute or two (but not too long or it will cure), and then go back over the grooved edge of our tile with my fingertip and the barely damp rag. <br /><br />It is a time consuming and slow process, you definitely have to practice a bit of patience while you work. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQBY2qyBvkHCuhc7ZWf2z6VLSQkci5lG6iJCrH7e_OFnvK7u5n1EOAq1RE_i3fnDE-5cL5SaY_HR3ogyADwsMhw6IQL1s5zKYO4QMr4FIAlk9ATETytdlCWKdQ59XWDkTwjSPLIQlZOPA/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQBY2qyBvkHCuhc7ZWf2z6VLSQkci5lG6iJCrH7e_OFnvK7u5n1EOAq1RE_i3fnDE-5cL5SaY_HR3ogyADwsMhw6IQL1s5zKYO4QMr4FIAlk9ATETytdlCWKdQ59XWDkTwjSPLIQlZOPA/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_11.jpg" /></a></div><br />And for the end result?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRlSuoQgy_0nQqTE0siG5CWMHTSVBtE1YgQoDpTn6YHqYRJsIFMMrzlNv1uE_S7z9e7CyT0I5hxyOsetzAR7VRp9PlKdlWZq-P26y7uw8o-iJlyaUIsVs340v-RL3pYRoO3e5rnWakusw/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRlSuoQgy_0nQqTE0siG5CWMHTSVBtE1YgQoDpTn6YHqYRJsIFMMrzlNv1uE_S7z9e7CyT0I5hxyOsetzAR7VRp9PlKdlWZq-P26y7uw8o-iJlyaUIsVs340v-RL3pYRoO3e5rnWakusw/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_12.jpg" /></a></div><br />After getting up close and personal with the project, I think the product worked quite well.  As it dried, it seemed quite durable and really did clean up the previous grout to a brand-spanking new finish!  Everything is sparkly clean which makes me happy.<br /><br />On a side note, I think the darker color dated the look of our tiles.  Although they will now hide dirt and grime and clean really nicely, I probably should have gone with a slightly lighter shade of gray.  I realized it quite early on, but decided it was one of those projects that I had to wait until we were completely finished to make any final judgements.  I may do one more coat in the lighter gray if I can muster up the time and motivation.<br /><br />Now, I must get back to work.  I finally get to tackle my favorite part which is the small organizational projects and details.  See you back here tomorrow!<br /><br />

Four Week "Wait-No-More" Organizing Challenge! Week 3 - Master Bathroom Grout Renew

I still have plenty to get done to hit my deadline of having a completely organized master bathroom by the end of the day.  But I thought I...

Read more »

Quick Tip Tuesday: Magical Stain Be-Gone

This week's quick tip comes courtesy of my fabulous sister-in-law.  She shared a solution to a common problem and I couldn't believe what I was hearing.  So, I had to try it myself, and share this cool little gem of a tip with all of you.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglGaLCBZd5cIG0D3tw7ghUmVUlPLfNtHBF9HsAGiOTPwSVY1gkb4CuHqerna12PHu-Tp0zg7w-fNLCd0rxxg5KKSDo6VN29Pao_OnJgB53GKT8yq0UHyqgr041nCXKJOlEfkEoSteqU0X2/s1600/Hand_Sanitizer_Stain_Remover_Header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglGaLCBZd5cIG0D3tw7ghUmVUlPLfNtHBF9HsAGiOTPwSVY1gkb4CuHqerna12PHu-Tp0zg7w-fNLCd0rxxg5KKSDo6VN29Pao_OnJgB53GKT8yq0UHyqgr041nCXKJOlEfkEoSteqU0X2/s1600/Hand_Sanitizer_Stain_Remover_Header.png" /></a></div><br /><i>Stains</i>.  Always a word with a negative feeling.  And although a ring is a positive sign of eternal love in marriage, an eternal ring on a piece of furniture or counter-top doesn't emote the same level of happiness.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1B8bWpiQ5anmdXbrIco9_dEh4vN-WP_sfLUGwlaYKB3aVY7HiwOhFohvMuoMCoF7S9GRLwFElZG9qZ9QIcyF1U6HG00yvY69_Jf-0PUpOgI3pleGeDofxL4tlN_sA0GTWP4lEJ2qLRJx4/s1600/Hand_Sanitizer_Stain_Remover_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1B8bWpiQ5anmdXbrIco9_dEh4vN-WP_sfLUGwlaYKB3aVY7HiwOhFohvMuoMCoF7S9GRLwFElZG9qZ9QIcyF1U6HG00yvY69_Jf-0PUpOgI3pleGeDofxL4tlN_sA0GTWP4lEJ2qLRJx4/s1600/Hand_Sanitizer_Stain_Remover_1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />Last week, my sister-in-law and I were chatting about kitchen counter-top options (as we are in the process of selecting ours for our kitchen renovation), and were discussing the pros and cons of each type.  We talked about how overall, our laminate counters held up fairly well over the years of our abuse; we really only had issues with seams, the color/finish that was selected and a few areas where we made the poor choice to skip a cutting board.  She then proceeded to tell me that one thing she appreciates about laminate, is that if they happen to be stained with a ring of red juice or wine, hand sanitizer magically will take the stains away.  Hold the phone.  What did she just say?  Hand sanitizer + red stain = no more stain?  I had to see it to believe it.<br /><br />I thought about staining my own white laundry room counter top just for the thrill of the experiment, but we all know how silly that sounds.  Then, this afternoon, I spotted a stain that happened on a piece of our furniture back in December.  I had filled a vase with flowers and water and the bottom of the vase was wet enough that it left an awful ring of discoloration on our white furniture top.  I scrubbed, I cried, I scrubbed some more. Gah, so disappointing and sad!  Nothing seemed to work.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvcxHXEllPa7nEAIS8Ln_kaE7_Hso5vVFV00qxqolpInbr3otrVKD7VnfcDND6tG8he1H-i-Rzman3o86fiPn6fNfP1UBSz4A26QRW-DznqJqtQChxvKz7WzZjWguFDf74tvnWBW626i8P/s1600/Hand_Sanitizer_Stain_Remover_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvcxHXEllPa7nEAIS8Ln_kaE7_Hso5vVFV00qxqolpInbr3otrVKD7VnfcDND6tG8he1H-i-Rzman3o86fiPn6fNfP1UBSz4A26QRW-DznqJqtQChxvKz7WzZjWguFDf74tvnWBW626i8P/s1600/Hand_Sanitizer_Stain_Remover_2.jpg" /></a></div><br />When I spotted the stain, I recalled last week's conversation and I started wondering if it was worth testing out the hand sanitizer trick.  Although it is not a laminate counter, it does have a laminate-like finish.  I dabbed some sanitizer in a location of the furniture that was not visible to test things out, letting it sit for about 30 minutes.  The furniture held up to the test with no signs of wear, so I decided to go big or go home.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhssCOWDKRv1ZcgbBxFMyO6Cm8eW9BWPyathv6iwwOogfTNRqoma-6Ox_ADCssbIjprB5VsptLNp9st-WAekNm1Jc1XKoQXa5Eh5seWDqxOJFPeTHP6kJfwnxk8SV-BHq2D_iZluyWqJx2/s1600/StainSidebySide.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhssCOWDKRv1ZcgbBxFMyO6Cm8eW9BWPyathv6iwwOogfTNRqoma-6Ox_ADCssbIjprB5VsptLNp9st-WAekNm1Jc1XKoQXa5Eh5seWDqxOJFPeTHP6kJfwnxk8SV-BHq2D_iZluyWqJx2/s1600/StainSidebySide.png" /></a></div><br />I applied a generous amount of sanitizer around the ring of the stain.  I then let it sit for 15 minutes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEMJjvCJpjQz3oVQglqUrHBehFV_85AcCxiAnl3DBk6-ogvtfxNdWSgGr2ZA9VrbLCVw_jnnPMyROP6zAaTEOC6kWMdPGj_q7V-Ak7B30ZyFl-FO3kAO3RUkJyiBtmdDFniv4JUt_bR16P/s1600/Hand_Sanitizer_Stain_Remover_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEMJjvCJpjQz3oVQglqUrHBehFV_85AcCxiAnl3DBk6-ogvtfxNdWSgGr2ZA9VrbLCVw_jnnPMyROP6zAaTEOC6kWMdPGj_q7V-Ak7B30ZyFl-FO3kAO3RUkJyiBtmdDFniv4JUt_bR16P/s1600/Hand_Sanitizer_Stain_Remover_3.jpg" /></a></div><br />After my timer went off, I used a soft microfiber cloth to wipe up the sanitizer.  I was surprised to see how about half of the stain was gone!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTMYtLGPugC0qz7FonbBr19WbKF3mue45s-7D85xbB4UoZ0lZ3ZJRykKBMLmi5DuEdkdvfz6W8jFRWLJJBiU6fVTMRia04HwZw5ljmkkp2VoCTIVV44jZgaep8m2agTg9Cqwnfe18cuUAr/s1600/Hand_Sanitizer_Stain_Remover_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTMYtLGPugC0qz7FonbBr19WbKF3mue45s-7D85xbB4UoZ0lZ3ZJRykKBMLmi5DuEdkdvfz6W8jFRWLJJBiU6fVTMRia04HwZw5ljmkkp2VoCTIVV44jZgaep8m2agTg9Cqwnfe18cuUAr/s1600/Hand_Sanitizer_Stain_Remover_4.jpg" /></a></div><br />I tried to scrub a bit, it helped a little but I concluded it wasn't really about the scrubbing action.  I think it was more about the sanitizer just pulling the stain up and out of the furniture.<br /><br />So, I applied again, for another 15 minutes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiveJoYTsRaftRuoYni4EOaZEKxtdO4PflEOBUeQ1UXpp5sdWnLLeUGYMAKRf_F2bFiXIUtKRuwXq8JkjfbrDTuQC144j9AikXM1z1C9zQUpEBmF2vUlpDyumvUDna6k3TPmN-Ou2dIIAWN/s1600/Hand_Sanitizer_Stain_Remover_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiveJoYTsRaftRuoYni4EOaZEKxtdO4PflEOBUeQ1UXpp5sdWnLLeUGYMAKRf_F2bFiXIUtKRuwXq8JkjfbrDTuQC144j9AikXM1z1C9zQUpEBmF2vUlpDyumvUDna6k3TPmN-Ou2dIIAWN/s1600/Hand_Sanitizer_Stain_Remover_5.jpg" /></a></div><br />Patience is key.  I did this three times, but in the end, the stain was completely GONE!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVT8cmk1W7vJ4Go4kFWmoWY-Fqjc4UY_umz5SkW_1CjJ5s-LtE0KFPK92j8ZvA8J3Bc3ioDsx7fr95jFZmzMj-zBnbRnvcrLsUfYrXp7sZEc-B2c3GU21cCXaiyVb39VTYzeA0ocn_e1mw/s1600/Hand_Sanitizer_Stain_Remover_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVT8cmk1W7vJ4Go4kFWmoWY-Fqjc4UY_umz5SkW_1CjJ5s-LtE0KFPK92j8ZvA8J3Bc3ioDsx7fr95jFZmzMj-zBnbRnvcrLsUfYrXp7sZEc-B2c3GU21cCXaiyVb39VTYzeA0ocn_e1mw/s1600/Hand_Sanitizer_Stain_Remover_6.jpg" /></a></div><br />So, if you have a stain that you have been frustrated with, I say, give it a whirl.  Do a little research ahead of time, my guess is that there are some surfaces you definitely would <i>not</i> want to try this on, such as solid wood (the key ingredients in hand sanitizer are water and isopropyl alcohol), and always test a small area first.  If you do try it and it works, be prepared to <b><span style="color: #a20067;">C</span><span style="color: #fcb2a7;">E<span style="color: #dd3c6e;">L</span></span><span style="color: #3a9545;">E</span><span style="color: #bfe3db;">B</span><span style="color: #004c6c;">R</span><span style="color: #c6d600;">A</span><span style="color: #a20067;">T</span><span style="color: #fcb2a7;">E</span></b>!  <br /><br /><i>Looking for more quick tips?  Check out the entire series <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/p/quick-tip-gallery.html" target="_blank">here</a>!</i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>

Quick Tip Tuesday: Magical Stain Be-Gone

This week's quick tip comes courtesy of my fabulous sister-in-law.  She shared a solution to a common problem and I couldn't believe...

Read more »

Quick Tip Tuesday: Create a Stain Removal Kit

This week's tip comes courtesy of one of our furry friends.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmquKmuehs99l4nJfhoGaNwKyfckaYn3Dvo2FBhakUKMacJTrVEu6of7ThaEYnd5REQAr2AIn3VfpjDoXMrod_G9DCmd6CDSYYH3eFsEbnq_1cxe1mP-pgrb3M5JraMT1PBh-xAu5NB0M/s1600/Stain_Removal_Kit_Header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmquKmuehs99l4nJfhoGaNwKyfckaYn3Dvo2FBhakUKMacJTrVEu6of7ThaEYnd5REQAr2AIn3VfpjDoXMrod_G9DCmd6CDSYYH3eFsEbnq_1cxe1mP-pgrb3M5JraMT1PBh-xAu5NB0M/s1600/Stain_Removal_Kit_Header.png" /></a></div><br />I have been wanting to put together a little DIY Stain Removal Kit for quite awhile, and this weekend I bumped up the urgency after a sick puppy incident.<br /><br />We switched to homemade cleaners a few years ago now, and when we made the switch we also tried to reduce the number of bottles of stain remover we are purchasing for carpet, upholstery and clothing.  In fact, I never found any that worked all that great anyway and have done a lot of reading about how everyday household products do just as well.<br /><br />My problem is that by the time I check out my stain removal guide, I then end up rummaging through my cupboards in hopes that I have everything I need on hand.   Sometimes I do a celebratory dance, sometimes I hear that whomp whomp sound.<br /><br />When it comes to these stain removers, different types of products work better on specific types of stains.  Makeup, sweat, puppy accidents, crayon, grass stains, chapstick, ink, wine and paint stains.... And let's face it, with three boys we see a lot of clothing stains.  Oh, who am I kidding?  I stain far more things than they do!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6KzMW1Dt1D1hS3hKsAvM_LjTvlJ7ql_1nB6d788SJbWAJitQIbAs6xPt1Cx2Q6UA9EsepfLl_gD2k2Ch1pwhMsQhMj_HE7A25RQGWrYiCYfLshfKfsLmPXtZW6Nb-Ym2AOK2rNjipHas/s1600/Stain_Removal_Kit_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6KzMW1Dt1D1hS3hKsAvM_LjTvlJ7ql_1nB6d788SJbWAJitQIbAs6xPt1Cx2Q6UA9EsepfLl_gD2k2Ch1pwhMsQhMj_HE7A25RQGWrYiCYfLshfKfsLmPXtZW6Nb-Ym2AOK2rNjipHas/s1600/Stain_Removal_Kit_1.jpg" /></a></div><br />I am not a stain removing expert, I definitely had to do some reading.  I found a lot of really helpful information on my two favorite websites; <a href="http://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/house-cleaning/tips/how-to-remove-stains-from-laundry/" target="_blank">Better Homes & Gardens</a> (also <a href="http://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/laundry-linens/stain-removal/stain-removal-products/" target="_blank">here</a>, <a href="http://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/house-cleaning/tips/stain-treatment/" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/house-cleaning/tips/stain-tips/" target="_blank">here</a>) & <a href="http://images.marthastewart.com/images/content/web/pdfs/pdf3/stain_removal_basics.pdf" target="_blank">Martha Stewart</a>.  <br /><br />The items I personally found helpful to add to my kit are as follows:<br /><ul><li>Salt</li><li>Vinegar</li><li>Petroleum Jelly</li><li>Peroxide</li><li>Clear Dish Washing Liquid</li><li>Baking Soda</li><li>Rubbing Alcohol</li><li>Corn Starch</li><li>Stain Removal Charts </li></ul>Also, not pictured above: <br /><ul><li>Bottled Water </li><li>Tonic Water </li><li>White blotting rag (to place behind clothing during stain removal)</li><li>Bin to hold supplies (which also doubles as a place to soak stained clothing)</li><li>Q-Tips</li><li>Medicine Dropper</li><li>Linen Brush</li><li>Spray Bottle </li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy1BMwRgQMtdziJFuPLki4sx9-f6O1hxT7rVVCjcbui96idtGcCHTyKWLMuBoBMjyxJBW6rtxNDxbr4KRCDrxjKPnTymU_99g50zA6OAvX4qavV_Dh4YeALaXFFQCaROcLGHm11u_6Juk/s1600/Stain_Removal_Kit_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy1BMwRgQMtdziJFuPLki4sx9-f6O1hxT7rVVCjcbui96idtGcCHTyKWLMuBoBMjyxJBW6rtxNDxbr4KRCDrxjKPnTymU_99g50zA6OAvX4qavV_Dh4YeALaXFFQCaROcLGHm11u_6Juk/s1600/Stain_Removal_Kit_7.jpg" /></a></div><br />Because <b>a)</b> I am me <b>b)</b> original packaging is bulky <b>c)</b> original packaging is visually cluttering and <b>d)</b> I plan to keep this kit on hand for many years to come, I decanted the everyday household products into a few small glass bottles (found at HomeGoods) and shakers (found at our local grocery store).  This is not at all a necessary step.  Just one if you are a lover of all things pretty and organized.<br /><br /><i>UPDATE:  Thank you to my special readers, they informed me that you should NOT place peroxide in clear containers, so it should at least be frosted or left in the original packaging.</i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I also used my Silhouette to create some vinyl labels which should stay strong even if they get wet.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYNVHrMvYATXFOITj31puFmev5tDBXOTPBvZ1VLc4cnOSgTfU74CaHlY3hBmT6_zPf2pl36R_-JJZj_b-AeEtCZ15nnliY03enSEjroX7I0O-D0iu8BfcM_DnDEL45x35oTVD47TR8C0/s1600/Stain_Removal_Kit_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYNVHrMvYATXFOITj31puFmev5tDBXOTPBvZ1VLc4cnOSgTfU74CaHlY3hBmT6_zPf2pl36R_-JJZj_b-AeEtCZ15nnliY03enSEjroX7I0O-D0iu8BfcM_DnDEL45x35oTVD47TR8C0/s1600/Stain_Removal_Kit_3.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I stuck everything in an empty bin, which will also double as a soaking tub ,and placed it on our counter in the laundry room.  I also laminated and hung the stain removal tips and charts on a command strip behind the kit.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifx_aBqd6f-xueKGEwlX9A0SHiBlucd98w5_fqf1jAkB0j6MXdqFSkj47_06eTpWQrF754SBjilpt9VhPixhIx7Q8OGXS6KIccIuGZGy-4lHcpoB5nhwCMBEZDfabCMoT3GW0k0YhhnQM/s1600/Stain_Removal_Kit_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifx_aBqd6f-xueKGEwlX9A0SHiBlucd98w5_fqf1jAkB0j6MXdqFSkj47_06eTpWQrF754SBjilpt9VhPixhIx7Q8OGXS6KIccIuGZGy-4lHcpoB5nhwCMBEZDfabCMoT3GW0k0YhhnQM/s1600/Stain_Removal_Kit_4.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfBoeYTzr6U7-ppHVECREUbiBp4ywfJeQjqCo5rBPXBcBIQ65s_tfYUjn7AbEi0j8OD06KMm8e6s_cxoRGj8cPDBAWKvt7Kyc1aX0pNo7lEnoGR491JxkZRB_Wrd6TUe6t7m7Vv5AHzVI/s1600/Stain_Removal_Kit_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfBoeYTzr6U7-ppHVECREUbiBp4ywfJeQjqCo5rBPXBcBIQ65s_tfYUjn7AbEi0j8OD06KMm8e6s_cxoRGj8cPDBAWKvt7Kyc1aX0pNo7lEnoGR491JxkZRB_Wrd6TUe6t7m7Vv5AHzVI/s1600/Stain_Removal_Kit_5.jpg" /></a></div><br />I also appreciate that I learned a lot about the additional uses for everyday household products that we already have stocked in the kitchen and medicine cabinet.  I had no idea you can use petroleum jelly to prevent a stain from spreading.  Or that simple dishsoap works just as hard on stains as it does on dishes.<br /><br />Now we have everything at our fingertips anytime we create a stain.  And yes, that is a frequent occurrence here, so I am pretty excited to have it all in a single location.  Also, the fact that it turned out so stinking darling and it can live anywhere in the laundry room is a sweet little bonus.<br /><br /><i>Do you have a no-fail secret stain fighting recipe?  Care to spill it?</i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKwBbaKVdCYKjlfZs2OiFl0eDD5U1Sx37kHfT-JP53Q2UZfGG6a0PiG_KUPC5VruuRrtHQtndLElz1b4I1qcmPBSVmAIkHutWkU94g4qI1KURGyJH2aKcBxobBs-x1DWU30ZlFqG_Y3gE/s1600/BlogClosing.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKwBbaKVdCYKjlfZs2OiFl0eDD5U1Sx37kHfT-JP53Q2UZfGG6a0PiG_KUPC5VruuRrtHQtndLElz1b4I1qcmPBSVmAIkHutWkU94g4qI1KURGyJH2aKcBxobBs-x1DWU30ZlFqG_Y3gE/s1600/BlogClosing.png" /></a></div><br /><i>Looking for more quick tips?  Check out the entire series <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/p/quick-tip-gallery.html" target="_blank">here</a>!</i><br /><br />

Quick Tip Tuesday: Create a Stain Removal Kit

This week's tip comes courtesy of one of our furry friends. I have been wanting to put together a little DIY Stain Removal Kit for quite...

Read more »

Quick Tip Tuesday: A Bag for Rags

Every year I try to focus on things big and small in relation to our home and organizing solutions.  A few years ago I started a series of "<a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/search/label/Quick%20Tip" target="_blank">Quick Tips</a>", and I always love those posts because they allow me to share really quick things that can be done to make day-to-day life a smidge easier.  The solutions are intended to be simple enough that anyone can do them in a few minutes or less.<br /><br />As much as I love those posts, sometimes our projects and what we have going on in our home can quickly take over the blog.  And then I forget that there needs to be a better balance of big and small for us all.  As a result, this year I am excited to use Tuesdays as a way to celebrate those smaller ideas that typically have big results.  Say hello to <i>Quick Tip Tuesday</i>!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivTS8nFRkz3mj7C6BxVU7ipcXlHMEJuWj7sTxcSTXu4_4dVcak8pzB2J9l8ilu6mrhU8oqAMYnaWJMJUUlaRnacJDSkRgDpSmZHPb8bOi-aXg6KRok1uDrS46Jr_vYMnqPd6EFqEpsqUM/s1600/Command_Hook_Wet_Sack_Header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivTS8nFRkz3mj7C6BxVU7ipcXlHMEJuWj7sTxcSTXu4_4dVcak8pzB2J9l8ilu6mrhU8oqAMYnaWJMJUUlaRnacJDSkRgDpSmZHPb8bOi-aXg6KRok1uDrS46Jr_vYMnqPd6EFqEpsqUM/s1600/Command_Hook_Wet_Sack_Header.png" /></a></div><br /><br />As I was setting up a temporary kitchen in our guest room to utilize during our renovation, I realized that one of my favorite kitchen solutions has never actually been shared here on the blog.  The horror right?!<br /><br />As we made an effort to use less paper towels and chemicals in the kitchen, we began using more rags. For the longest time I would toss the rags into a small vase tucked away under the sink.  This solution worked OK, yet it would only be a matter of a day or two before the smell would start and I wasn't a huge fan of lugging a ceramic vase up and down the stairs each laundry day.<br /><br />Then one day I spotted a wet bag while with one of my girlfriends and her baby.  I had no idea that these fabulous things existed, where were they when my boys were babes?  I asked her all about them, and she let me know that typically they are used in diaper bags to hold wet diapers, wipes, spit up clothes, etc... They also work great at the beach or pool for wet swimming gear.  It made me start singing, <i>"Always the last to know..."</i><br /><br />Then the lightbulb went off.  I wanted one of these fabulous bags under my sink to hold all of our dirty and wet rags until laundry day!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0f5VNfjUpTXSeHio-7cd2J2TSgSw8eewouDznaQwFfVH7uAtMcSh_u3BxJja80Drh34ZQNlkD8rpHc3pGVTvtprTo4inkKOG1o5YD1Gporn_147a3DS9s79E-zsd9vdzcEvGh8NX08OQ/s1600/Command_Hook_Wet_Sack_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0f5VNfjUpTXSeHio-7cd2J2TSgSw8eewouDznaQwFfVH7uAtMcSh_u3BxJja80Drh34ZQNlkD8rpHc3pGVTvtprTo4inkKOG1o5YD1Gporn_147a3DS9s79E-zsd9vdzcEvGh8NX08OQ/s1600/Command_Hook_Wet_Sack_2.jpg" /></a></div><br />I am not sure if all wet bags are created equal, but I purchased <a href="http://amzn.to/14l9kEX" target="_blank">this one in the large size (no longer available in pink)</a> and not only does it hold a boat load of dirty rags, it also seems to absorb and lock in the smells!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrp2s2BdXMgLd7ik4mhe68P-K1hyphenhyphenUgL15ImrguQLjzHX60EvM76CqphgcnE7WJh6Kw2frVdl9LPxi2lKUHknLOb_kymgRjq59O4GPtWkr8kcPi7SPyaBFIB3d9NdldGpwZ4V5a45SZ5OI/s1600/Command_Hook_Wet_Sack_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrp2s2BdXMgLd7ik4mhe68P-K1hyphenhyphenUgL15ImrguQLjzHX60EvM76CqphgcnE7WJh6Kw2frVdl9LPxi2lKUHknLOb_kymgRjq59O4GPtWkr8kcPi7SPyaBFIB3d9NdldGpwZ4V5a45SZ5OI/s1600/Command_Hook_Wet_Sack_3.jpg" /></a></div><br />So the tip is, hang one of these delightful bags on the inside of your cabinet door, just under the kitchen sink.  After cleaning or washing dishes, toss the damp/wet rag into the bag until washing day arrives.  I used <a href="http://amzn.to/1tHJ7qv" target="_blank">Spring Clip Command Strips</a> to hang the bag, but you could also sew a small loop on the back and use hooks.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmrMkt_dM5YRQGyCKkgg7vIypb2eMdqWpd5TBujTI9egmocO11HYMrOUufBDf-U5r8oqNc9jZ90VbUtgKahYZQC4Ptfe1uU3bzmbUS-8gEYQ-K-Esxm5zBCSOVpm5QUsLca9W7BQv9-_g/s1600/Command_Hook_Wet_Sack_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmrMkt_dM5YRQGyCKkgg7vIypb2eMdqWpd5TBujTI9egmocO11HYMrOUufBDf-U5r8oqNc9jZ90VbUtgKahYZQC4Ptfe1uU3bzmbUS-8gEYQ-K-Esxm5zBCSOVpm5QUsLca9W7BQv9-_g/s1600/Command_Hook_Wet_Sack_1.jpg" /></a></div><br />Each week, I take the bag full of dirty rags down to my laundry room, and toss the bag right into the wash with them!  I have been doing this forever now and it really has been one of those super quick and easy solutions that make my daily life much more simple!  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr653MJbE56BLmdsqZewIZRBh0YHuveWTZuBqlz0jIG_x7zRIzZ8mEzqMxBsyITaBOoQJ2O0dAeEkTUzd2NASOf4Afs0sN7vqDLI4deClXi5kMFcWpMg6lW-v22LjpH2lUI8etMLTlxqs/s1600/Command_Hook_Wet_Sack_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr653MJbE56BLmdsqZewIZRBh0YHuveWTZuBqlz0jIG_x7zRIzZ8mEzqMxBsyITaBOoQJ2O0dAeEkTUzd2NASOf4Afs0sN7vqDLI4deClXi5kMFcWpMg6lW-v22LjpH2lUI8etMLTlxqs/s1600/Command_Hook_Wet_Sack_4.jpg" /></a></div><br />Are y'all excited for more Quick Tip Tuesdays?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLVYrRTtjqw4_B2GqnV4zsrMk06LuMmxqdqJaBHPW5iOAv_rDUl-crTbq5wUdzkybsDoyyGesUyvOuGbt4CkFdCy9VcVLIRIbqDU4o9KnrhAMAT1YTyceb4S7sWg8Z0T4q67C0QNUmCWc/s1600/BlogClosing.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLVYrRTtjqw4_B2GqnV4zsrMk06LuMmxqdqJaBHPW5iOAv_rDUl-crTbq5wUdzkybsDoyyGesUyvOuGbt4CkFdCy9VcVLIRIbqDU4o9KnrhAMAT1YTyceb4S7sWg8Z0T4q67C0QNUmCWc/s1600/BlogClosing.png" /></a></div><br /><i>Psssst!  I just looked up my Amazon order and I started using the wet bag at the end of 2012!  As you can see in the photos, the bag has held up wonderfully over the years.</i><br /><br /><i>Looking for more quick tips?  Check out the entire series <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/p/quick-tip-gallery.html" target="_blank">here</a>!</i><br /><br />

Quick Tip Tuesday: A Bag for Rags

Every year I try to focus on things big and small in relation to our home and organizing solutions.  A few years ago I started a series of ...

Read more »