Transform Your Kitchen with Lighting Upgrades

(Family Features) As the heart of many homes, the kitchen is often for much more than cooking. From morning coffee and gathering for family meals after long days at school and the office to entertaining loved ones on the weekend, functional, stylish lighting can make your kitchen truly shine – day or night. Whether you’re planning a full-scale remodel or simply looking to refresh one of your most-used spaces, even modest lighting updates can enhance its aesthetic appeal and usability. From swapping out lightbulbs to replacing fixtures, adding smart controls and more, these ideas can help you brighten things up. Add Balance with Layered Lighting The most well-lit kitchens incorporate three layers of lighting: ambient, task and accent. Ambient lighting, typically from recessed ceiling lights or a centralized light fixture, provides general illumination and sets the tone for the space. Task lighting, such as under-cabinet light strips or a hanging fixture above an island, provides focused light over work zones like the sink, stove or countertops. Finally, accent lights in cabinets, baseboards or backsplash can add depth and drama, for a practical and inviting layered look. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Lightbulbs One of the simplest ways to upgrade your kitchen – or any room – is swapping old lightbulbs for energy-efficient LED bulbs. From cozy warm whites to bright white and amber hues, LEDs come in a variety of color temperatures to fit your space. Plus, they typically last longer and use less energy than halogen, incandescent and fluorescent bulbs and they’re often dimmable, giving homeowners complete control over the space’s brightness and mood. Make a Statement with New Fixtures A design feature all their own, lighting fixtures like chandeliers or pendants over the kitchen table or center island can instantly elevate your kitchen’s look and feel. For a sleek, modern aesthetic, consider polished chrome finishes; think brass or brushed nickel for warmth; or opt for matte black for stunning contrast. Remember to look for fixtures in finishes that complement your appliances and cabinet hardware to truly bring the space together. Embrace Smart Technology Even small updates can make a big difference when it comes to bringing your kitchen into the future. Swapping out old switches with smart options that allow you to adjust brightness throughout the day, schedule your lights to turn on or off automatically and change the color temperature from your smartphone or voice assistant can enhance usability and convenience while reducing energy usage. Find more ideas to enhance your living spaces at eLivingtoday.com.   Photo courtesy of Shutterstock SOURCE: eLivingtoday.com

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Last Updated on December 3, 2025 by Daily News Staff

How-To Winterize Your Lawn Mower

(Family Features) As mowing season winds down with cooler weather setting in, it’s time to prepare your lawn mower for storage. Properly winterizing your mower can help ensure it’s ready to run smoothly when spring returns. Consider these steps to get your mower ready for winter, which may help prevent corrosion, fuel problems and more costly repairs. Clean Your Mower Thoroughly Start by removing any loose grass clippings, dirt and debris then, using a garden hose and scraper, clean the underside of the mower deck. Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth and mild soap or all-purpose cleaner. Once dry, apply a light coat of silicone spray to metal parts to help prevent rust. Drain or Stabilize the Fuel Gasoline left in the tank through winter can break down and cause carburetor issues. You can either drain the tank by running the mower until it’s out of fuel or add fuel stabilizer, running your mower for 5-10 minutes afterward to circulate it through the fuel system. Change the Oil Similarly, used oil contains contaminants that can corrode your mower’s engine. Drain the oil following your mower’s manual – usually by tipping the mower or removing the drain plug – then refill with the recommended type and amount of fresh oil. Inspect the Spark Plug To inspect for buildup or wear, remove the sparkplug then gently clean with a wire brush. If corroded or worn, the sparkplug may need replaced. Clean or Replace the Air Filter A clean air filter helps your mower run more efficiently. Replace paper filters or wash foam filters in warm, soapy water before drying and lightly oiling then reinstalling. Sharpen the Blade Remove the mower blade and inspect it for nicks or dull edges. If necessary, sharpen it using a file or grinder then reinstall securely. Lubricate Moving Parts Apply spray lubricant to moving parts, such as the wheels, cables and pivot points, to prevent rust and sticking. Find more guidance for keeping your lawn equipment working correctly at eLivingtoday.com.   Photo courtesy of Shutterstock SOURCE: eLivingtoday.com

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!

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Last Updated on December 2, 2025 by Daily News Staff

(Family Features) This holiday season, elevate everyday living with gifts that bring wellness, comfort and care long after the season ends.

Elevate Daily Living with Thoughtful Holiday Gift Ideas

Think outside the box when it comes to gifting and transform loved ones’ homes with functional ideas that bring joy, comfort and care. From wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on chilly mornings to recreating that same feeling with a WASHLET by TOTO bidet seat, everyday moments can become luxurious acts of self-care and wellness.

From spa-like essentials that enhance the home to innovations that turn routines into moments of renewal, these thoughtful gifts can redefine comfort at home.

Add Quality to the Kitchen
While the holidays go hand-in-hand with homemade meals, this special season isn’t the only time of year your friends and family will spend countless moments together in the kitchen. Heirloom-quality cookware offers an elegant gift that lasts for years to come, providing daily joy for recipients with a constant reminder of your affection as they serve family favorites, showstopping sides and decadent desserts while celebrating milestones or savoring simple weeknight meals.

Give the Gift of Clean
After a long day braving winter’s chill, imagine stepping into a warm, welcoming bathroom where comfort and care await. With thoughtful design and spa-inspired technology, WASHLET from TOTO transforms the ordinary bath into a sanctuary of warmth and renewal. More than a holiday gift, it’s an invitation to experience wellness, comfort and luxury every day – beautifully expressed in an elegant bidet seat. Models including the S7A, S5 and S2 deliver a luxurious heated seat and soothing stream of warm water, turning a daily routine into a moment of quiet indulgence, like slipping into freshly laundered sheets after a candlelit bath.

A soft, warm air-dry completes the experience, leaving your loved one refreshed, clean and comfortably renewed in a way toilet paper never could. Uniting intuitive technology with thoughtful design, the WASHLET collection from TOTO offers personalized settings for up to four users. With its sleek, modern aesthetic, each model integrates effortlessly into today’s bathrooms, where design and innovation meet in perfect harmony. To discover more gifts that are good for your loved ones and the planet, visit totousa.com/washlet.

Transform the Morning Rush
Mundane mornings can be the enemy of productivity. Allow your loved ones to transform those unwelcome wake-up calls into moments of renewal with bathroom luxuries like a spa-inspired showerhead. By turning a regular morning routine into an oasis of calm, you can gift daily revitalization with a wave of serenity – giving “morning rush” a whole new meaning.

Craft with Love
Whether you’re creatively inclined or visit a local shop, a handcrafted, personalized throw offers warmth and comfort long beyond the holiday season. Designed for settling into the coziness of home after cold days in winter’s grasp, it’s a thoughtful way to show just how much you care as a daily reminder of your appreciation for that special someone.

Refresh Body and Spirit
Bringing a breath of fresh air to your loved one’s home can go beyond throwing open the windows. A sculptural air purifier designed for their space can encourage both calm and wellness by removing allergens and odors, which can affect sleep, daily living and overall health. You can breathe a sigh of relief knowing you’re giving a gift that’s as practical as it is personal.

By shifting your gift-giving from fleeting stocking stuffers to forever luxuries, you can add practicality and peace to your loved ones’ daily rituals – all with a personal touch that exemplifies the care and comfort of the holiday season.

SOURCE:
TOTO

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!

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