Place charcoal in a perforated plastic bag and stash the bag your fridge or drawers to banish odors. Read more »
choose a species of tree suited for your climate
To ensure that your planted tree thrives long past the holidays, choose a species suited to your climate and region. Your local nursery will give the best advice. Read more »
turn down thermostat 3 degrees when having a holiday party
Ratchet down the thermostat by 3 degrees F—guests hate sweating over their holiday cocktails. — The Holiday-Ready House Read more »
stance to take for raking leaves
Take a scissor stance, one foot forward and one behind. Use the rake to pull forward from behind or in from the side. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your back upright Read more »
stack and season firewood, essential homeowner skills
Properly season firewood by stacking logs outdoors in a sunny spot, away from wood structures, to keep insects from migrating. — 56 Essential Survival Skills for Homeowners Read more »
leave cut pieces in place until your are finished carving pumpkin
Leave the cut shapes wedged in place until you are finished cutting all the lines. This will provide added support until you're done carving Read more »
properly pitched gutters
Check your gutters: properly pitched gutters slope between 1/16 inch and ⅛ inch per foot, directing water to the leader and out the downspout. — Button Up Your House For Fall Read more »
look for the biggest bulbs to plant for the largest blooms
At the nursery, look for the biggest bulbs of your chosen variety—they'll give you the largest blooms. — Plant Bulbs Now for Future Blooms Read more »
open shelves and exposed beams in kitchen
Open shelves and exposed beams add a sense of loftiness in a smaller kitchen. — Inspiring Home Spruce-Ups on a Shoestring Budget Read more »
clean grill grates
Dry-scrub crud from grates, burners, and inside surfaces with a nonscratch sponge or a nylon brush, then wash surfaces with dish soap and water. Read more »