Life Style

Is Your Home Making You Sick? The Health Risks of Dirty Curtains

Published

1 year ago

March 13, 2022

sylvia J

We grew up seeing our homes decorated with curtains—our drawers chock-full of them in all patterns, colours, and fabrics imaginable—and who could blame us? Curtains not only contribute to the overall aesthetic of your home but are also multi-purpose.

For starters, curtains filter the light that’s coming into our home, acting as a light diffuser that softens the natural light. They keep dust from getting inside and provide us with privacy, away from the prying eyes of our neighbours. Muffle the noise from the outside, creating a safe and peaceful space.

Despite the availability of other equally-appealing alternatives such as blinds, shades, and shutters, some people still prefer their curtains and it’s not difficult to understand why. The others just can’t quite replicate the elegance that curtains offer.

It’s well known that window treatments can cause allergy and trigger asthmatics. They do release harmful VOCs, you can read more about it in this study here. Luckily, there are products on the market that emit very low VOC’s, or none. For shutters, you’ll want them with water based paint. For blinds, go for fabrics that feature green certifications to ensure there are no or very low VOCs emitted.

With all these great things raised about them, did you know that the curtains we loved so much can also be a source of health risks? No matter how great they may look, curtains are still fabrics that accumulate dust and dirt over time and without regular maintenance, they can pose dangers to our health.

Can Dirty Curtains Make You Sick?

Respiratory Problems

Curtains block dust, dirt, and bacteria that could otherwise enter our homes. Over time, they attract allergens that can trigger allergic reactions such as sneezing, runny nose and coughs. This is potentially very harmful to kids, elderly people, pregnant women and those who have asthma and other respiratory problems. To prevent this, businesses providing curtain dry cleaning services in Singapore recommend washing your curtains every 3-6 months.

Mould and Mildew

Dampness indoors can result in mould and mildew growth in your curtains. Exposure to airborne mould particles can trigger asthma attacks and other serious respiratory problems. You may experience irritation of the eyes, skin, nose, throat, even lungs. Mould and mildew have also been linked to worsening cases of asthma.

Germs

Curtains that are hung in dark areas of our home can be breeding grounds for germs and bacteria. While they may be invisible to the naked eye, they can multiply and make you sick if not properly treated or cleaned.

Dust and Toxins

Curtains, particularly those made with heavy fabrics are prone to accumulating dust particles easily and quickly. They may seem clean and spotless, but over time, you would notice them looking dull. Not only do they look unsightly, but dirty curtains can also create an unhealthy environment for you.

Fungi

Changes in weather can make your curtains damp for long periods without you noticing it. Like moulds and mildew, fungi can thrive on the fabric as well, resulting in an unpleasant smell. Those with a weaker immune system can be exposed to mould spores that can make them sick.

How Often Should You Clean Your Curtains?

Like anything else in our households, curtains naturally attract dust, dirt, odours, and other particles over time. Laundry and dry cleaning professionals in Singapore recommend washing your curtains every 3-6 months. By doing so, you not only create a healthier environment but give your curtains longer and extended usability as well.

Below are some tips on how to maintain your curtains and keep them clean for longer in between professional cleaning.

Vacuuming

You can do this either while it is hung or you can take them down for a while, lay them on a flat surface to vacuum. Make sure to vacuum the backside, hems, and edges as well.

Shaking

Every once in a while, give your curtains a good shake to dislodge dust. Place them back to their rods and hooks and wait for at least 10 minutes to clean the rest of the room or when the dust have settled down on the floor.

Brushing

Lint rollers are great for removing any tiny fibres in your curtains, but a brush can work just as well. They keep your curtains looking new for longer.

How to Properly Wash Your Curtains

Of course, the time will always come when you have to take your curtains down and give them a thorough cleaning. Dirty curtains do not only post serious health issues but can also damage your curtains to the point that you have to buy new ones. It goes to show that proper curtain cleaning is a good way of preserving them for long-term use. Check out these tips on how you can give your curtains a good clean:

Take your curtains down from the hooks and rods. Some curtains are combinations of heavy and delicate fabric panels. Make sure they are sorted properly.
Shake the curtains vigorously to loosen any dust and dirt.
Pre-soak your curtains in cold water to loosen up the grime, stains, or any particles that have accumulated while they are hung.
Some curtains should be safe in the machine, as long as there aren’t any hardware (grommets, hooks, pins) attached to them. However, curtains with embellishments and other ornate details are better washed by hand. The same goes for curtains with delicate fabrics.
Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear. Any detergent residue can leave spots on the fabric.
If using the dryer, do not use the heat setting. Otherwise, you risk shrinking or fading your curtains.

These are great ways in making sure that your curtains are clean and safe. But, sometimes, washing your curtains yourself is just impossible, whether you don’t have the time to do it or your curtains are some expensive stuff that you cannot risk damaging.

In these cases, professional laundry and dry cleaning services are the better solutions. Clean Care is a professional laundry and dry cleaning company that offers premium quality care for your curtains.

With their pick-up and delivery service, you’ll get your curtains cleaned on schedule, exactly how you want. It will not only save you hours compared to washing and drying your curtains yourself. Plus, with the premium service you get, you can rest easy knowing that your curtains are in safe hands.

Visit their website to learn more.

Life Style

Sustainable and Ethical Engagement Rings: A Guide for Conscious Shoppers

Published

2 days ago

March 20, 2023

sylvia J

Sustainable and Ethical Engagement Rings

In Melbourne, ethical and sustainable engagement rings are becoming increasingly popular as conscious consumers prioritise transparency and responsible sourcing practices. Many local jewellers now offer engagement rings in Melbourne made with recycled metals and ethically sourced diamonds or gemstones.

For many couples, the engagement ring symbolises commitment and love. However, it is essential to remember that behind every diamond or gemstone lies a complex and often murky supply chain riddled with human rights abuses, environmental degradation, and unfair labour practices. Fortunately, sustainable and ethical engagement rings are becoming increasingly popular, allowing conscious shoppers to make a positive impact while also celebrating their love. This guide will explore the critical considerations for purchasing a sustainable and ethical engagement ring, from sourcing materials to the design and production process.

Gemstones

For those who prefer a colourful alternative to diamonds, there are many other gemstones, such as sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. However, ensuring that the gemstone is also sourced responsibly is essential. Look for certifications such as Fair Trade Gems or the Alliance for Responsible Mining, which ensure that the gemstone has been mined in a way that benefits the workers and the environment.

Metals

Finally, consider the metal used for the band of the engagement ring. Gold and silver mining can have significant environmental and social impacts, including deforestation, water pollution, and forced labour. Look for recycled or Fairmined certified metals, ensuring that the metal has been responsibly sourced and the workers were paid a fair wage.

Artisanal Craftsmanship

One way to ensure that the engagement ring is produced ethically is to purchase from a company that prioritises artisanal craftsmanship. These companies often work directly with skilled artisans, providing them fair wages and safe working conditions. This supports the local community and ensures the engagement ring is made with care and attention to detail.

Carbon Footprint

Another important consideration is the carbon footprint of the production process. Traditional mining and manufacturing processes can significantly impact the environment, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and other forms of pollution. Look for companies prioritising sustainable production processes, such as using renewable energy or reducing waste.

Lab-Grown Diamonds

For those who want a diamond engagement ring but are concerned about the environmental and social impact of mining, lab-grown diamonds offer a sustainable and ethical alternative. These diamonds are created in a laboratory using advanced technology, with no mining required. They are chemically and physically identical to natural diamonds but with a significantly smaller carbon footprint and less potential for contributing to human rights abuses.

Choosing a Company

Finally, when choosing a company to purchase an ethical engagement ring, look for one that is transparent about its sourcing and production practices and prioritises ethical and sustainable practices. Some companies may also have a giveback program, where some profits support social and environmental causes.

Summing Up

Sustainable and ethical engagement rings in Melbourne allow conscious shoppers to celebrate their love while positively impacting the world. By ensuring the points mentioned above, shoppers can feel confident that their engagement ring represents their commitment to each other and a better world.

As the demand for sustainable engagement rings grows, more companies prioritise transparency and responsible practices. By choosing a sustainable and ethical engagement ring, couples can celebrate their love in a way that supports fair labour practices, protects the environment, and contributes to a more just and equitable world.

Life Style

How Selfmadecrew Website Provide You With The Best Tape Art

Published

2 days ago

March 20, 2023

sylvia J

How Selfmadecrew Website Provide You With The Best Tape Art

If you want to approach someone for the exterior and interior space tape art, then selfmadecrew is the option. They provide a variety of services, and you can approach them at selfmadecrew.com. Tape art is a unique and eye-catching art form created using different types of tape. This art form can create various designs, patterns, and images. Tape art is a great way to add a personal touch to any room or space.

What is Selfmadecrew?

It is the best website for tape art that you can use for different purposes. The tape art that they provide includes:

Duct tape art
Packing tape art

Duct tape art

Duct tape art is a unique and interesting way to create art. It is a type of art that uses duct tape as the medium. They create this type of art by using duct tape to create different shapes and designs.

This type of art is often used to create sculptures or other three-dimensional objects. You can get these tape services from selfmadecrew for pictures, 3D installations, interior design, street art, and graffiti murals.

Packing tape art

This tape art is a great way to add personality to any room. This type of art is created by using packing tape to create images and patterns on a variety of surfaces. They created this artwork with brown and coloured tape. The unique thing about this artwork is that it can be lit from behind.

How Selfmadecrew Creates Tape Art

Tape art is a type of art that uses adhesive tape as the primary medium. The tape is used to create both two-dimensional and three-dimensional images. Tape artists often use recycled materials, such as duct tape and packing. Tape art is a great way to experiment with colour and pattern. It’s also a fun way to get creative with everyday objects.

The Popularity of Tape Art Today

Tape art is a relatively new art form that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is created by using adhesive tape to create designs or patterns on surfaces. Tape art can be created on almost any surface but is often seen on walls.

Many types of tape art exist, from simple geometric patterns to more complex and detailed designs. Tape artists often use bright and colourful tape to create their designs, adding fun and playful elements to any space.

Tape art is popular for a number of reasons. It is a relatively simple and inexpensive way to create art, and it can be done almost anywhere. You can use it to decorate for special occasions or events and remove it when no longer needed.

If you’re looking for a fun and creative way to add some personality to your home or office, tape art is a great option. There are endless possibilities for what you can create, and you can change your design as often as you like. So get creative and start experimenting with tape art today!

Conclusion

You can use tape art for a variety of projects, such as commissioned projects. Tape art is often used for commissioned projects, as it can be used to create custom designs and logos. It is a great and unique way of marketing. You can hire Selfmadecrew professionals for brand art and design.

Life Style

Portraits of Grandparents: Preserving Memories of Our Elders

Published

1 week ago

March 14, 2023

sylvia J

Our grandparents are often some of the most important people in our lives. They have been with us since our childhood, guiding and nurturing us, and providing us with a sense of security and love. As we grow older, our grandparents may age and become more fragile, and we may become more aware of their mortality. One way to preserve our memories of them is to create portraits of our grandparents.

Portraits of grandparents are a visual tribute to their lives and a way of preserving their legacy. A portrait captures the essence of the individual, reflecting their unique personality and character. A good portrait captures more than just their physical appearance; it can evoke memories of their voice, mannerisms, and the way they made us feel. A portrait can be a cherished heirloom that is passed down from generation to generation.

Why Create Portraits of Grandparents?

Creating portraits of our grandparents is a way of preserving their memory and ensuring that their legacy lives on. As we age, our memories of our grandparents may become less vivid, but a portrait can help to bring those memories back to life. A portrait is also a way of honoring our grandparents and showing them how much they mean to us.

A portrait can also be a source of comfort during times of grief. When our grandparents pass away, we may feel a profound sense of loss. A portrait can help us to feel that they are still with us in some way, and can provide us with a sense of connection to them.

Creating a portrait of our grandparents can also be a way of strengthening our relationship with them. Sitting for a portrait can be an intimate and emotional experience, and can help to deepen our understanding of our grandparents. It can also be a way of showing them how much we care and appreciate them.

How to Create a Portrait of Your Grandparents

Creating a portrait of your grandparents can be a challenging but rewarding experience. There are a few steps you can take to ensure that your portrait is a success:

Choose the right medium: There are many different mediums you can use to create a portrait, including paint, charcoal, pencil, and digital tools. Choose the medium that you feel most comfortable with and that will best capture your grandparents’ unique character.
Choose the right setting: Choose a setting that is comfortable and familiar to your grandparents. This can be their home, a favorite park, or a place that has special meaning to them.
Choose the right pose: The pose your grandparents take can have a significant impact on the final portrait. Choose a pose that is natural and reflects their personality.
Pay attention to details: Details are what make a portrait unique and special. Pay attention to the details of your grandparents’ face and clothing, as well as the setting around them.
Take your time: Creating a portrait is a process that takes time and patience. Don’t rush the process and take the time to get everything just right.

Conclusion

Creating a portrait of your grandparents is a way of preserving their memory and ensuring that their legacy lives on. A portrait can capture the essence of the individual and evoke memories of their voice, mannerisms, and the way they made us feel. It can be a cherished heirloom that is passed down from generation to generation.

By creating a portrait of your grandparents, you can honor and celebrate their lives, deepen your relationship with them, and provide yourself with a source of comfort during times of grief. So why not take the time to create a portrait of your grandparents and preserve their memory for generations to come?