home improvement
5 Must-Haves for Outdoor Entertaining
Last Updated on August 30, 2025 by Daily News Staff
5 Must-Haves for Outdoor Entertaining
(Family Features) Gatherings and get-togethers may commonly take place inside, but giving your guests extra space takes nothing more than a little creativity and the right outdoor appliances. Open a new door – literally – and head outside to take advantage of unused deck, patio and yard space.
As a natural extension of your home, a few key pieces of lighting, heating and cooking equipment can turn your backyard into an entertaining oasis. Let your personal style shine and elevate your hosting skills with these ideas from the experts at the Propane Education & Research Council.
Lighting
Flame lighting may not be every homeowner’s first consideration, but more hosts are relying on it to add upscale elegance to outdoor gatherings. Custom lanterns, modern chandeliers, pendants and tabletop units offer stylish additions to modern and classic designs alike.
No matter your tastes, propane flame lighting fixtures can be placed in multiple areas for aesthetic and practical purposes. While it’s hard to top the soothing effect of a starry night while calming flames reflect off your windows and add a glow to your patio, flame lighting also can ward off intruders or animals and help prevent tripping in the dark.
Grills and Cooking Equipment
Propane can help you bring your dream kitchen to life outdoors. First establish a budget and identify a builder then build out the features of your high-performing kitchen in the peaceful setting nature offers. Often, the centerpiece of the space are grills, which are available in a variety of sizes and styles. Some offer features like side burners for sauces and rotisseries.
Because they heat up fast and provide precise temperature control, propane-powered outdoor cooking appliances are a popular choice for homeowners who want to spend less time preparing food and more time enjoying it. With instant on-off convenience just like indoor gas ranges, outdoor propane grills, pizza ovens and ovens help home chefs create perfectly cooked meals with no coals, soot or ash to clean up. The appliances can also be built in to a straight, L-shape or U-shape bar to complete your outdoor cooking paradise.
Patio Heaters
If chilly weather brings on the blues in your region, make the most of your outdoor space with a propane-powered patio heater that allows for entertaining nearly year-round. Propane patio heaters can raise the outdoor air temperature up to 25 F while emitting a circle of radiant heat up to 25 feet in diameter. Next time you want to get outside before patio season arrives, start up a propane patio heater to enjoy cozy warmth in a clean, safe, reliable way.
Fireplaces and Fire Pits
Another option for bringing warmth to outdoor entertaining can happen with the push of a button in the form of a propane fireplace or fire pit. These smokeless solutions come without the maintenance of wood-burning fires, meaning you can enjoy the heat and ambiance of flames dancing in the night sky while skipping the fuss of soot, ash and burning logs. Plus, clean-energy propane delivers heat more efficiently with a lower carbon footprint than traditional energy sources like wood, which take a toll on the environment.
Pool Heaters
You can maximize your fun for as much of the year as possible and combat the elements with propane pool and spa heaters. Available for in-ground and above ground pools and spas, propane heaters operate at a higher efficiency than electric systems and maintain heat better in cooler weather while also operating cleanly and taking up minimal space.
Outdoor Entertaining
To find more outdoor entertaining inspiration, visit Propane.com.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
SOURCE:
Propane Education & Research Council
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home improvement
How to Get Rid of Ants Naturally: A Non-Toxic Arizona Homeowner’s Guide
Learn how to get rid of ants naturally in Arizona using safe, non-toxic methods like vinegar, diatomaceous earth, and boiling water.
Ants are a common problem across Arizona, especially in cities like Tempe where hot, dry conditions push them indoors in search of water. While chemical pesticides can be effective, many homeowners are now turning to safer, non-toxic solutions that protect both families and pets.
The good news? You can eliminate ants naturally—and effectively—by targeting their behavior, not just the insects themselves.
🌵 Why Ants Invade Arizona Homes
Unlike ants in cooler climates, desert species are often more attracted to moisture than food. That means kitchens, bathrooms, and even air conditioning units can become hotspots for activity.
Some species, including Argentine ants, can form large colonies with multiple nests, making them especially persistent.
🧼 Step 1: Kill Ants and Erase Their Trails
The first step is immediate control.
Vinegar Solution (50/50 water and white vinegar):
- Kills ants on contact
- Eliminates scent trails that guide other ants
Spray directly on visible ants and along baseboards, then wipe clean.
🧂 Step 2: Use Natural Killers That Work Over Time
Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade)
A fine, natural powder that:
- Dehydrates ants as they walk through it
- Works as a long-term barrier
Apply lightly around entry points, cracks, and under appliances.
Baking Soda + Powdered Sugar
- Mix equal parts and place near ant trails
- Ants carry it back to the colony
- Slowly eliminates the nest from within
🌊 Step 3: Destroy Outdoor Colonies
For long-term success, you must go beyond what you see indoors.
Look for small dirt mounds in:
- Yards
- Sidewalk cracks
- Along foundations
Boiling water method:
- Pour directly into nests
- Repeat daily if needed
- Highly effective and completely chemical-free
🌿 Step 4: Create Natural Barriers
Ants rely heavily on scent trails. Disrupting them helps prevent reinvasion.
Try:
- Lemon juice along entry points
- Cinnamon or peppermint oil near doors and windows
- Regular vinegar wipe-downs
🔒 Step 5: Make Your Home Less Attractive
In Arizona, water is often the biggest draw.
Reduce attraction by:
- Fixing leaks
- Keeping counters dry
- Storing food in airtight containers
- Removing pet water overnight
- Taking out trash frequently
⏱️ What to Expect
- Within 24–48 hours: Fewer ants
- Within a week: Major reduction in activity
- Ongoing: Occasional reappearances (due to nearby colonies)
Consistency is key.
The most effective non-toxic strategy combines:
- Immediate elimination (vinegar spray)
- Long-term control (diatomaceous earth or bait)
- Outdoor colony destruction (boiling water)
- Prevention (removing water sources)
This layered approach ensures you’re not just killing ants—you’re stopping the problem at its source.
🔗 Related Links & Sources
- University of Arizona Cooperative Extension – Ant Management Guide
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Safer Pest Control
- EPA – Introduction to Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
- UC Agriculture & Natural Resources – Ant Pest Notes
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Healthy Homes & Pest Control
Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!
home improvement
Going Beyond Aesthetics: 7 Home Design Trends for 2026
Heading into a new year, home design is once again evolving. Homeowners are blending comfort, personality, sustainability and connections to the outside world this year. Whether you’re refreshing a room or planning a full-blown makeover, consider these ideas for inspiration that feels both timeless and fresh.
Last Updated on April 2, 2026 by Daily News Staff
(Feature Impact) Heading into a new year, home design is once again evolving. Homeowners are blending comfort, personality, sustainability and connections to the outside world this year. More than just aesthetics, these trends are warm, intentional and rooted in real life.
Whether you’re refreshing a room or planning a full-blown makeover, consider these ideas for inspiration that feels both timeless and fresh.
Warm, Earthy Palettes
This year, say goodbye to whites and cool grays. Instead, cozy earth tones like clay, sage, caramel and rich neutrals create a grounded, inviting atmosphere. Refresh walls or cabinetry with these earthy hues or try color-drenching – using a single hue in varying tones across walls, trim and ceilings – for a bold new vibe that feels both timeless and modern.
Flowing, Curved Shapes
As homes trend more toward feeling lived-in rather than staged, hard edges and rigid forms are taking a backseat. In 2026, curves are everywhere: soft archways, rounded furniture and curved statement pieces – think circular mirrors or oversized armchairs – create fluid, comforting spaces.
Natural Materials and Textures
Designs this year celebrate materials that age beautifully, like natural stone, reclaimed wood and textiles that tell a story. Consider woven pillows and throws, handmade pottery, textured walls and wood with visible grain to enrich rooms with sensory detail and an artisanal feel.
Personalized Nostalgia
Blend vintage finds with contemporary art to create a space that’s truly your own. That means vintage finds, heirloom pieces and decor that evokes memory – even quilted textiles or classic checkered tiles – styled in fresh, modern ways to add warmth and individuality.
Attention to Statement Details
Small details are getting big attention this year. Swapping out basic cabinet hardware and lighting fixtures for artisanal, tactile metals can help elevate kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanities, turning them into design statements.
Flexible, Multifunctional Spaces
With hybrid work and lifestyle blending continuing into 2026, rooms should be designed to serve multiple purposes. Reading nooks can double as workstations. Living rooms effortlessly transition from day to night. Adaptable furniture, hidden storage and smart layouts help make multifunctional spaces feel intentional and uncluttered.
Outdoor-Inspired Interiors
The connection to nature grows stronger inside homes with greenery, natural light and materials that echo the outdoors. From indoor-outdoor flow to plant-rich spaces that feel alive and tranquil, biophilic design promotes calm, comfort and connection.
Visit eLivingtoday.com to find more design inspiration to make your home more personal and grounded in comfort.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
SOURCE:
Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!
Last Updated on April 2, 2026 by Daily News Staff
(Feature Impact) Making changes to a bedroom doesn’t have to break the bank. Simple swaps, a little DIY and some inexpensive purchases can go a long way toward freshening up the place you lay your head.
Better Bedding
If you can’t remember the last time you bought a new comforter, it may be time to snag one. Think beyond the luxury home stores and check out discount home decor retailers and even thrift stores, where you can often find new, unopened bedding at a fraction of the cost. A fluffy throw blanket in a dynamic new color might be the perfect way to rejuvenate your bed.
Playful Pillows
Few things spruce up a bedroom more than new throw pillows. Available in a myriad of sizes and shapes – from squares to rectangles to asymmetrical – there is no shortage of ways to use these functional pieces to brighten up a space.
Uplifting Light
Old-fashioned lamps, ancient wall sconces and dusty chandeliers can make a room feel stale. Scouring consignment stores and estate sales for new lighting can take a bedroom from dated to delightful without spending a ton of cash. If big box stores are more your thing, you can find budget lamps in unexpected departments; for example, try the back-to-school sections for dorm-friendly finds like twinkle lights and small bedside lamps. These little pops of light can both brighten and cozy up a room with minimal effort.
Punchy Paint
Repainting a room is a doable DIY project, and it can make a huge difference in how a room looks andfeels. Give yourself time to peruse the countless paint swatches at specialty paint stores or home improvement stores. If you’ve always gravitated toward earthy tones, maybe opt for a color with a little more depth or saturation. If brighter hues are your thing, go a little darker. If you love the idea of painting but worry about buyer’s remorse, start with an accent wall.
Heavenly Hardware
Functional hardware like drawer pulls and doorknobs can be replaced without much effort or money. Secondhand stores, online marketplaces and even furniture boutiques can be a goldmine for offbeat and unique hardware. Be sure to think beyond your bedside, too. Wardrobe handles, closet rods, sconces, wall hooks and hinges can be swapped out easily and inexpensively.
Find more tips and guidance to give your bedroom a budget-friendly upgrade at eLivingtoday.com.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
SOURCE:
Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!
