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Curtains are an essential part of every home’s decor. And having the right curtains can be the last piece to the puzzle - the furnishing that makes the room, while having the wrong ones . . . well, no one wants to look at bad curtains.
When given an option, should the curtains be lined or … View moreCurtains are an essential part of every home’s decor. And having the right curtains can be the last piece to the puzzle - the furnishing that makes the room, while having the wrong ones . . . well, no one wants to look at bad curtains.
When given an option, should the curtains be lined or non-lined? What are the differences? We'll find out in this article.
Lined curtains, as the name would suggest, have a supplemental lining on the inside of the curtain. This lining can be multifunctional so it’s best to consider what you want to achieve with your curtains.
Sometimes the lining is simply for decoration, giving the curtain a bit of depth and extra weight, perhaps offering a splash of colour to offset the primary colour of the curtain.
More often than not, they are often designed to be noise cancelling, heat insulating, or fully light blocking, among other things. If for example, you’re planning your living room to also be a fully functional home entertainment centre, 100% blackout - lined curtains would be your best bet.
Lined curtains offer better privacy due to the extra thickness of the fabric. They often have extended lifetime compared to unlined curtains due solely to the lining preventing the fabric from fading.
Unlined curtains, on the other hand, have their own advantages.
They are both lighter and airier making them perfect for rooms that have either smaller or fewer windows and a tendency to remain dark.
They allow natural sunlight to fill the chosen area while still providing privacy to the homeowner. This has the added benefit of reducing the potential need for electrical light and thus ultimately reducing one’s electric bill.
Another perk is that unlined curtains cost less than lined curtains on average and so are a more affordable solution. The reduced amount of fabric used for unlined curtains also means that they attract less dust than lined curtains, which in turn creates fewer risks for those with allergies.
They are washing machine-friendly which is huge in itself. You will save both time and money avoiding dry cleaning.
Lastly, for those people who enjoy changing the appearance of the room frequently, unlined curtains are easier to hang or take down and store, and with their reduced costs, infinite combinations are possible.
Whether choosing lined or unlined curtains, the fact remains that curtains are the one element that pulls a room together. Both options have their pros and cons so homeowners must consider what purpose the curtains will be fulfilled before making their purchase.
Live independently while your loved one is cared for in the same Ryman village.
A full life for Helen is one that is surrounded by family. When she first moved to the village, Helen’s husband John was being cared for elsewhere. Now that he is living at the same village, it brings Helen and … View moreLive independently while your loved one is cared for in the same Ryman village.
A full life for Helen is one that is surrounded by family. When she first moved to the village, Helen’s husband John was being cared for elsewhere. Now that he is living at the same village, it brings Helen and her family so much happiness and reassurance.
“All the family cried when he moved in. They were so happy because it was such a beautiful thing to have him close by.”
Get New Zealand’s cutest pets delivered to your inbox with Furry Friday.
Each Friday morning, editor Nick Barnett serves up your finest photos of your domestic friends. You’ll also receive exclusive content with pet-related stories and photos, as well as updates on the life of Riley, … View moreGet New Zealand’s cutest pets delivered to your inbox with Furry Friday.
Each Friday morning, editor Nick Barnett serves up your finest photos of your domestic friends. You’ll also receive exclusive content with pet-related stories and photos, as well as updates on the life of Riley, Nick’s own furry friend.
Kia ora Neighbours! The Royal New Zealand Air Force Band is heading out on tour!
It’s our first since 2021 and we’ll be performing in Whanganui, Taupō, Hamilton and Tauranga. We’re playing symphonic hits, jazz standards some musical theatre, as well as featuring our super popular … View moreKia ora Neighbours! The Royal New Zealand Air Force Band is heading out on tour!
It’s our first since 2021 and we’ll be performing in Whanganui, Taupō, Hamilton and Tauranga. We’re playing symphonic hits, jazz standards some musical theatre, as well as featuring our super popular drumline.
20th to 25th of February - Get your tickets at Ticketek and we’ll see you there!
Hi Neighbours!
Bring out the best in your decks, fences and weatherboards with Resene wood stains and oils.
If you’re planning a dark colour, choose a Resene CoolColour to help keep the paint, stain and surface cooler.
Available from Resene ColorShops.
Ever wonder how to clean a burnt pan? See what happened when we put different cleaning methods to the test on our dirtiest skillets.
Whether you burn dinner completely or your pans get dirtier and dirtier over time, eventually you’ll need to have a scouring session at the sink. And for this, … View moreEver wonder how to clean a burnt pan? See what happened when we put different cleaning methods to the test on our dirtiest skillets.
Whether you burn dinner completely or your pans get dirtier and dirtier over time, eventually you’ll need to have a scouring session at the sink. And for this, the quicker the better! For this reason, we put five methods for cleaning a burnt pan to the test. Keep reading to learn how to clean a burnt pan—and see what methods are most effective.
Is a burnt pan ruined?
In most cases, no! A burnt pan can be revived with our cleaning methods below. If all else fails, or if the pan has endured multiple years of heavy use and never seems to get clean, it may be time to part ways with it.
The Testing Method: In an effort to make sure this guide gives you the most accurate results, we put some parameters in place for this skillet scrubbing experiment. All pans tested were made of stainless steel and scorched with the same combination of foods—cheese, eggs and grape jelly.
If the method recommended soaking, we allowed each pan to soak for up to 15 minutes, checking at intervals of 5 minutes and documenting when the charred remains began to lift with ease. We also limited any extra “active scrubbing” to 10 minutes because honestly, who wants to scrub a pan for longer than that?!
Ratings: Each method is rated on a scale of 1 to 5. Ratings were awarded based on how long each technique took to work its magic, how much extra elbow grease was required to remove the burnt-on food and the overall effectiveness in the cleaning process in terms of how much mess remained on the skillet after cleaning within our set parameters.
Cleaning Techniques for Greasy Skillets: Warning: Before cleaning your pans, test the method on a small, inconspicuous portion to ensure it won’t damage the surface. The methods below are intended for stainless steel cookware and not those with non-stick coatings.
Tools and Supplies
Bar Keepers Friend: We tested Bar Keepers Friend for one of our cleaning methods and the results were impressive. It’s a household cleaning product everyone should have in their cupboard since it can be used on a variety of surfaces like stainless steel, ceramic and more. It’ll be your new cleaning best friend in no time.
Dishwashing gloves: Though all of our testing methods require less scrubbing, some scrubbing is necessary. Keep hands dry and clean with these versatile dishwashing gloves. We love that it features a non-drip catch cuff and that they can be used for washing dishes, cleaning the bathroom and everything in between.
Sponges: It’s always a good idea to have a stockpile of sponges on hand for everyday household cleaning. When it comes to cleaning kitchen appliances or cookware, opt for non-scratch sponges. They’re durable enough to get burnt food residue off, yet gentle enough that they won’t scratch or tarnish your best gear.
Method 1: Baking Soda + Vinegar
Benefits: This method uses affordable pantry items most people have on hand.
How It Works: Fill your dirty pan with equal part water and vinegar. Bring the mixture to a boil and then add 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Remove from heat and let soak for up to 15 minutes. Discard the liquid down your drain and then use a sponge or scouring pad to scrub away any remaining burnt-on bits. If spots remain, apply a paste made of baking soda mixed with a little water and let sit for a few minutes before scrubbing again.
What Happened: After just 5 minutes of soaking, we noticed some charred bits starting to float to the surface! However, we opted to let this one continue to soak for the full 15 minutes since it seemed some stubborn bits were holding fast. After rinsing and 10 minutes of heavy scrubbing with a scouring pad we were able to lift most of the charred, burnt-on food. A follow-up application of baking soda paste was definitely needed and further scrubbing was essential to lift the remaining debris. Rating: 3/5
Keep reading: www.curtainclean.co.nz...
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has announced she will resign as prime minister before February 7.
With this year's general election scheduled for Saturday, October 14, discussions surrounding the new leader of the Labour Party are in progress.
Share your thoughts below (include Not For … View morePrime Minister Jacinda Ardern has announced she will resign as prime minister before February 7.
With this year's general election scheduled for Saturday, October 14, discussions surrounding the new leader of the Labour Party are in progress.
Share your thoughts below (include Not For Print if you don't wish for your comments to be published)
Transform a tired old plywood interior into a thing of beauty with Resene Colorwood.
Find out how to create your own.
Many high schools report that vaping is a growing issue despite the 18+ legal smoking age and this has been associated with the proximity of schools to vaping retailers.
Recent amendments have been made to The Smokefree Environments and Regulated Products Amendment Act to limit nicotine in … View moreMany high schools report that vaping is a growing issue despite the 18+ legal smoking age and this has been associated with the proximity of schools to vaping retailers.
Recent amendments have been made to The Smokefree Environments and Regulated Products Amendment Act to limit nicotine in products and cease supply to those born in/after 2009. Less retailers are to be approved and product packaging made less appealing.
Until March 15, public submissions will accepted regarding these changes, especially around the location and quantity of retail stores as well as the appeal and addictiveness of smoked tobacco products.
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers for women in New Zealand. Regular breast screening can identify breast cancer at an earlier stage so it can be treated earlier, which means a woman has a better chance of surviving the disease.
BreastScreen Aotearoa (BSA) is a national programme … View moreBreast cancer is one of the most common cancers for women in New Zealand. Regular breast screening can identify breast cancer at an earlier stage so it can be treated earlier, which means a woman has a better chance of surviving the disease.
BreastScreen Aotearoa (BSA) is a national programme that provides free screening every two years for women aged 45 to 69 years.
Please phone 0800 270 200 for more information or to enrol go to the BreastScreen Aotearoa website www.timetoscreen.nz
Remember Regular Screening Can Save Your Life. Once is Not Enough.
Whether your pet likes taking an afternoon nap or leaping that gap (that’s a little too big for them), you can relax knowing they’re covered by a trusted pet insurer.
Sign up with Southern Cross Pet Insurance today.
Splash some colour around your home these holidays with paper roll pals, breakfast trays and a stationery caddy finished in Resene testpots.
Find out how to create your own.
Did you know you can enjoy a cooler finish with Resene CoolColour Planning to use a dark coloured paint or wood stain on your home?
Choose a Resene CoolColour finish that will help reflect more heat and keep your place cooler.
Available in a wide range of colours and products from your … View moreDid you know you can enjoy a cooler finish with Resene CoolColour Planning to use a dark coloured paint or wood stain on your home?
Choose a Resene CoolColour finish that will help reflect more heat and keep your place cooler.
Available in a wide range of colours and products from your local Resene ColorShop.
Ryman provides comprehensive care options in a community where caregivers become family.
Joyce is a resthome resident at Logan Campbell Village. Between regular walks with lifestyle coordinator Ramon, participating in village activities, family visiting and keeping them up to date via email, … View moreRyman provides comprehensive care options in a community where caregivers become family.
Joyce is a resthome resident at Logan Campbell Village. Between regular walks with lifestyle coordinator Ramon, participating in village activities, family visiting and keeping them up to date via email, 92-year-old Joyce certainly enjoys a full life.
With the many friends she has made and the special bond she shares with her caregivers, the village has become an extension of Joyce’s family.
Grab a copy of your local Stuff newspaper between today and 29 Jan and participate in the Great Kiwi Quiz! The questions are based on our beautiful country so test your skills and see if you know New Zealand as well as you think you do.
Each correct answer will get you one entry into the draw to… View moreGrab a copy of your local Stuff newspaper between today and 29 Jan and participate in the Great Kiwi Quiz! The questions are based on our beautiful country so test your skills and see if you know New Zealand as well as you think you do.
Each correct answer will get you one entry into the draw to win a $200 Prezzy Card, with a total of $10,000 worth of Prezzy Cards to give away. The more correct answers you enter, the higher chance you have of walking away with a Prezzy Card this summer. For more information and to submit your answers, click here.
The team at Stuff and Sunday Star-Times
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