(StatePoint) Never underestimate the power of scent. When you first open that dryer door or pull a warm, freshly laundered shirt over your head, you feel good, confident, clean and ready to face the day. You might not consciously think it, but you feel it. But in summer, long days outdoors result in frequent clothing changes and towel usage, creating “loads” more smelly laundry than usual.

(StatePoint) Whether you’re hosting a get together or just want to keep everyone in your household entertained, it’s the best time of year to take the fun outdoors. Check out these five ideas for backyard fun for people of all ages:

(StatePoint) While pine-based cleaning products aren’t anything new, most people don’t realize they’re among the most functional cleaning products to have on hand, even when it comes to sprucing up your hardest-to-clean items and spaces.

(StatePoint) First impressions are everything. And while a lot gets said about exterior curb appeal, what one sees upon entering your home matters just as much.

(StatePoint) Time for your annual spring clean? Make sure you’re equipped with the right tools and strategies. Here are a few cleaning hacks to help ensure a smooth and easy process.

(StatePoint) The summer months are often accompanied by rough weather that can do a number on a roof if it’s not designed to withstand the elements. Experts say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

(StatePoint) It’s no secret that spending the past year in quarantine has made people focus more on their homes. DIY projects are at an all-time high. Painting. Furniture fixups. Baking. Outdoor and indoor gardening.

(StatePoint) The backyard is one of the most popular spots of the home to relax, host and have fun. However, it all starts with a beautiful lawn. If you’re in the weeds -- literally -- there are great resources available to help you tackle lawn care so you can make the most of your outdoor spaces and have a better overall outdoor experience.

(StatePoint) Warm and wet spring and summer conditions predicted for much of the country are going to make for an extra buggy season, according to the biannual Bug Barometer forecast from the National Pest Management Association.

(StatePoint) Choosing the right type of grass optimizes the chances that your lawn will be healthy, beautiful and easy to maintain. However, experts say that there are many factors to consider.

(StatePoint) Did you know that certain kitchen habits can increase the likelihood for bacteria growth, food contamination and foodborne illness? However, a few simple tweaks to your routine can help reduce these risks and keep foods fresher for longer, leading to less waste.

(StatePoint) Pools are great for play, exercise and therapy. However, it is critical that while enjoying ourselves, we take appropriate safety precautions.

(StatePoint) Last year, when the pandemic suddenly shut down our everyday lives and for many of us, pushed them into tiny, isolated spaces, we had to adapt.

(StatePoint) Plant parenthood among Millennials and Gen Z has been on the rise in recent years, and time spent at home throughout the pandemic has inspired even more people to start houseplant collections. In fact, over the past year, searches including “indoor plants,” “buy plants” and “plant delivery” spiked, as many set out to create beautiful, calming sanctuaries at home and spruce up their Zoom backgrounds.

(StatePoint) Keeping your household well-stocked of items you need to run things smoothly is essential, particularly during the spring cleaning season. But whether it’s home improvement supplies or laundry necessities, selecting the best products may be a bit more challenging these days. Not only are new products introduced to store shelves all the time, if you’re like many consumers, you’re staying home more with fewer opportunities to compare products in-person.

(StatePoint) Whether you’re putting down roots or putting your home on the market, kitchen upgrades make a huge impact. Not only do they have daily “good feeling” appeal for current homeowners, they can offer a great return on investment when it’s time to sell.

(StatePoint) During peak home-buying and building season, it’s critical to protect one of the largest investments you’ll make in a lifetime — as well as your loved ones.

(StatePoint) Even relaxation and fun take some preparation. But there’s no reason to work harder than you need to. Follow these hacks to get to the good stuff faster this summer.

(StatePoint) It’s time to extend your home’s living spaces to the outdoors. To get your patio prepped for a summer of relaxation and fun, consider the following décor ideas and inspiration:

(StatePoint) Summertime is often synonymous with longer days, sweet sunshine and memorable times with friends and family.

(StatePoint) Experts predict allergy season to be exceptionally severe this spring, according to the Allergy & Asthma Network. Rising global temperatures and a forecast of warm, dry air this spring after a winter of heavy snow could significantly increase pollen production. This comes after a year many people spent mostly indoors in quarantine.

(StatePoint) While the tireless work of medical professionals, teachers and grocery store workers has rightfully been celebrated throughout the pandemic, you may be less familiar with the work of housing counselors. During a challenging year that exacerbated the U.S. housing crisis, those close to the situation say that housing counselors are the pandemic’s unsung heroes.

(StatePoint) For the past year, many of us have lived, played, worked and gone to school right at home, making clutter inevitable – especially when it comes to kids’ bedrooms and playrooms. 

(StatePoint) To celebrate spring, Carla Hall, renowned chef, author, and television host, offers two delicious recipes that make carrots the star ingredient of the season.

(StatePoint) Windows let in light and fresh air and can provide breathtaking views, but it’s vital to observe window safety, especially when young children are in the home, say experts.

(StatePoint) Spring is the official start to bug season, making it important to prepare your home. Here are four steps you can take you keep bugs at bay:

(StatePoint) With mortgage rates hovering near three percent, experts say there are still a number of homeowners who could benefit from refinancing. In fact, borrowers who refinanced in 2020 to lower their mortgage rate saved over $2,800 in mortgage payments annually, according to the latest Freddie Mac research.

(StatePoint) Over the last year, our kitchens have become a place where we prep for an important presentation, help with schoolwork, cook meals together and laugh with friends at a virtual party.

(StatePoint) The increased time spent at home during the pandemic has resulted in many people deciding to tackle home renovation projects. From creating a new office space or virtual learning area, to larger projects like bathroom renovations, many homeowners are rolling up their sleeves to do the improvements themselves.

(StatePoint) Plastic contributes to climate change and is a major pollutant, harming wildlife and people. Here are a few tips for reducing your plastic footprint at home that will also contribute to a healthier planet.  

(StatePoint) Have the cold winter months left your home feeling a bit dirty, drab or disorganized? Are you feeling the urge to purge? Then it’s time for some spring cleaning. With a few simple tips and tricks, your home—and mood—can be refreshed and revitalized.

(StatePoint) Is your garage in disarray? While you dream of a perfectly organized workbench or garage, your reality probably looks more like a sea of random toys, boxes and exercise equipment.

(StatePoint) Running a household on a budget? Smart shopping strategies can help your family save on favorite foods, wellness essentials and more.

(StatePoint) The COVID-19 pandemic permanently evolved our definition of “home,” inspiring us to reconsider how we use and live in our spaces. For many, it’s no longer just the place where we relax and regroup at the end of the day – it’s also an office, daycare, eatery, gym or classroom.

(StatePoint) If you are like many consumers, it’s important to you that you are stocking your pantry and refrigerator with foods, beverages and wellness products your family will love. However, being a careful shopper is particularly tricky these days, as you are likely getting in and out of the supermarket in a hurry or even staying home and ordering items online.

(StatePoint) Fairly easy to construct and even easier to maintain, raised garden beds are a great way to raise plants and vegetables in the comfort and convenience of your backyard.

(StatePoint) While no one wants to dwell on worst-case scenarios, the last year has in many ways illustrated that there are no certainties in life. Preparing your home to handle a wide range of emergency scenarios will offer you peace of mind now and keep your family safe in the future.

(StatePoint) If you’ve ever noticed a bird attack your windows, you may wonder why this strange behavior is occurring. Beyond the potential disruption it might cause your family, repeated attacks can be harmful to birds. Understanding the problem however, can help you put a stop to it, and better protect the birds nesting on your property.

(StatePoint) The arrival of spring brings with it warming temperatures, blooming flowers and endless springtime celebrations. It is also an opportunity to try something new, whether it is in the garden, kitchen or around the home.

(StatePoint) Spring is a great time to refresh your home. Whether you’re planning a major clean sweep or just giving problem areas a little extra TLC, experts say that a few simple strategies will make the job easier and the fruits of your labor last longer.

(StatePoint) While the roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccine has left a lot of question marks about the future of the U.S. economy at-large, analysts expect the housing market to remain strong and stable in the coming year.

(StatePoint) As the weather warms, there are a few maintenance tasks every homeowner should consider completing. Use this checklist as your guide: