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Tips to craft your own holiday decorations

2020-12-10T20:07:32

(BPT) – Holiday decorations bring a smile to everyone’s face, and that is needed now more than ever. Crafting seasonal décor instead of shopping for it gives you and your family something to occupy your extra time at home and helps you avoid big crowds and shopping stress.

Perhaps you’ll make wooden signs with jolly messages or metal snowflakes covered in lights? Or maybe you’ll craft ornaments for the tree or engrave messages into the menorah? No matter the craft, a homemade holiday novelty will bring a sense of pride and happiness to all.

Ready to get crafty and holiday savvy? Here’s what to do:

1) Make a plan

Visualize your project in your space and measure the location so you know what supplies you need. Take a look around to notice what areas have the most room. Get a view from the outside to see what your neighbors will see when passing by.

Browse social media/decoration sites for inspiration. Save pictures of your favorites and then picture it fitting in your space. You could even sketch out your design on paper to get a clearer vision of what you’re going to create.

Locate your sources of electricity if you want to incorporate lights, music or even snow machines (Hey, we can dream!). Be sure you have extension cords if you’ll need them.

2) Shop for your materials

Shop for and select the items that are eye-catching and fun. Consider bright, festive colors and pretty patterns.

Research the items you need, and what stores near you carry them before you leave to save some time. Price check between stores to ensure you don’t overspend. If possible, you can even order online supplies ahead of time to avoid the crowds.

3) Have the best tools in your tool belt

Equip yourself with tools that are lightweight, versatile, portable, user friendly and the best to get the job done. The new MakerX line of tools from Worx gives you a range of creative options, allowing you to create from anywhere and perfecting the small details that make all the difference. The tool set revolves around a 20V Power Hub battery that powers five versatile tools, including an air brush, angle grinder, mini heat gun, rotary tool and wood and metal grinder, so the possibilities are limitless.

Test out your tools on some scraps first before diving into your perfect materials and always follow safety measures and be careful when handling tools.

4) Set the mood

You’ve got everything you need so now it’s time to start feeling festive. Light an apple cinnamon, vanilla cookie, fir and firewood or whatever spiced-snow-scent-tickles-your-fancy candle, turn on the cold weather carols and get your groove on.

Pour a cup of cocoa — or a glass of spiked cider for mom and dad — and get to work!

5) Kick back and admire your work

Enjoy the company of those around you as you work together to make your holiday crafts and see the beauty in creating something with your hands, regardless of the imperfections. Work any mistakes into your final design. After all, the experience is half the fun, and you’re making memories that will last forever.

Proudly display your holiday decorations in and out of your home for yourself, your family and your neighbors to enjoy.

Take lots of pictures for friends and family who can’t be there in person and share your work on social media. A little joy goes a long way.


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Making the call of 5G: Is it time to switch?

2020-12-10T09:01:00

(BPT) – After seemingly years of breathless hype, 5G network technology has finally arrived across much of the country. Delivering increased connection speeds and improved call quality, 5G is the new state-of-the-art for wireless users, and both cellular providers and device manufacturers are rushing to convince customers to hop aboard this new “superfast” train.

But for the average cellphone user, how important is it to make the switch to a 5G compatible device right now? Here are the key things to consider when making that decision.

What does 5G mean?

First, it’s important to understand what 5G means. The “G” stands for “Generation” — meaning, simply, this is the fifth generation of mobile networks since the industry started. It is a new global wireless standard, following 1G, 2G, 3G and 4G networks that preceded it. The technological advancements of 5G (providing higher data speeds during peak usage times, reducing lag time, etc.) were driven by the need to keep pace with the explosive growth of wireless use since the last standard (4G) was rolled out in 2010.

What will 5G replace?

Mobile networks have a limited amount of bandwidth to operate on. This means that when a new “Generation” of technology is rolled out, an older one has to be turned off to make room for it on the network. In the case of 5G, it will be replacing the oldest “Generation” which was still in use, 3G. 3G networks have been in use since 2001, and providers expect them to be out of service by the end of 2021.

What does your current device use?

Whether or not you need to act quickly to replace your wireless device depends entirely on how old it is. If you are still using a flip phone or smartphone that connects to wireless networks using 3G technology, you can expect a year or less of use before you will be unable to make or receive calls, or connect to mobile data, with it.

If you have a phone purchased in the last few years that uses 4G, you won’t need to make a change anytime soon. As we see from 3G, the lifespan of each “Generation” of wireless technology lasts for around 20 years, so you’ll likely be able to stay connected using 4G for at least another 10 years (though your phone itself may not perform satisfactorily for that long).

How do you use your device?

For most users, the faster speeds provided by 5G networks will be noticeable primarily when performing data-heavy tasks with your phone, like streaming high definition video or downloading large files. If these are important to you, upgrading to a 5G device will be a definite benefit. However, if you are satisfied with the performance of your current phone using 4G networks, this standard will remain in place for the foreseeable future.

Who’s your carrier?

Wireless carriers have taken a variety of approaches to the arrival of 5G, with many offering incentives for customers to upgrade to newer devices. Their customer service is key to helping you understand your needs and what they have available. For instance, Consumer Cellular, which J.D. Power has named #1 for customer service among non-contract carriers nine times in a row, has begun offering 5G compatible phones in a variety of price ranges. The company focuses largely on customers ages 50 and up, and has helped successfully steer them through technology transitions for 25 years.

As with any new technology, an informed consumer is a happy consumer. By understanding what 5G means, and what benefits it can provide, you’ll be able to make a decision that will ensure you have the wireless service that’s right for you.


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Heartwarming hearths: 5 tips for kicking back by the fire this winter

2020-12-10T09:31:00

(BPT) – As the weather turns, there are certain perks to the chillier temperatures, including opportunities to cozy up and find new ways to enjoy relaxing times at home. For many, there’s no denying the sense of comfort that comes from kicking back by a crackling fire.

This season, people may utilize their fireplaces even more as they keep themselves and their families closer to home, enjoying small, intimate gatherings rather than hosting or attending larger events. The world’s oldest running rum distillery, Mount Gay, based in Barbados, offers premium, distinctive rums for every shared occasion, and the Mount Gay Moments x Cocktail Courier Collection is designed to enhance simple yet special moments at home. Danielle and Ely Franko of The Hunter Houses curated the “By the Fire” themed kit, which features the essential ingredients for a Mount Gay cocktail recipe to sip and savor fireside, along with special accessories including a picnic blanket, hat, s’mores kit and more.

“There is something very special about the experience of sitting by the fire, and some of our favorite memories stem from these simple moments,” advises the Frankos. “Sitting by a roaring fire, cocktail in hand, listening to all the crackles and pops of the wood and watching the flames dance and flicker and fade into the night is as romantic as anything.”

Here are some ways to make your intimate fireside moments even more fun with the help of Mount Gay Rum and the Frankos.

Get started.

An intimate occasion by the fire doesn’t need to be elaborate to be special. Start with the basics, like firewood and a match or lighter. If you are outside and don’t have a fireplace, find a safe location to build your own fire pit with sticks and stones. Keep the setup simple. A soft picnic blanket is the perfect canvas to set the stage so you can enjoy everything else, from snacks to drinks.

Sip and savor a special cocktail.

A delicious, perfectly crafted drink instantly enhances any moment around the fire. The Mount Gay XO Coco Hill is a sophisticated rum-based cocktail that is simple with a tropical twist featuring a coconut-water ice cube, which is perfect for sipping. As part of the new limited-edition collection, the Mount Gay “By the Fire” kit includes the key ingredients for the cocktail recipe: Mount Gay XO Rum, coconut water and a silicon mold to make the ice cubes.

Select snacks.

Fireside snuggling also calls for a selection of favorite snacks to complement your cocktails, whether your tastes veer toward savory bites or decadent sweet treats. Satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth by offering up a classic treat, s’mores. Build on the artisanal s’mores in the curated kit and create a smorgasbord with gourmet options like sea salt chocolate bark, dark chocolate squares, toasted coconut flakes, bananas, caramel sauce and other options that complement the cocktail and notes of the rum.

Infuse light entertainment.

Lounging by a fire is a great time to get deep into a good book or enjoy some light conversation with an intimate group of friends or family. Take things up a notch with a lively game of cards or bring out a portable backgammon or checkers set.

Take it outside.

There’s no reason to limit your fire-gazing to your indoor fireplace. Now that so many people have installed brick or portable fireplaces in their backyard spaces, you may be able to take your gathering outside for the joys of a hot, blazing fire contrasting with the cool fresh air. Enjoy gazing at the stars, watching the snow and sipping a tasty cocktail while cuddled up with your loved ones under a thick quilt. Throw on a cozy hat such as the bomber hat with faux fur from the Mount Gay kit.

“We love looking for little opportunities to make every day special,” the Frankos recommend. “It’s a small gesture to build a fire and pour a drink, but at a time in the year when everything feels like it’s moving at double-speed, slowing down and appreciating this wonderful world is exactly what we need.”

For additional information and cocktail recipes, visit MountGayRum.com and order one of the unique kits while supplies last on CocktailCourier.com.


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This season, give the gift of eggs

2020-12-10T11:55:00

(BPT) – You don’t need to spend a lot of money on extravagant gifts to show friends and loved ones how much you care this holiday season. The way to the heart is through the stomach, and a dozen eggs can get you there.

This year, spread the love and celebrate the simple joys with delicious and incredibly giftable homemade dishes starring The Incredible Egg…

Quick and Easy Lemon Curd

10 minutes prep time, 20 minutes total time

After preparing, spoon into small decorative jars and adorn with colorful ribbons to give as gifts. Print or write out a recipe card to go with it, so your gift recipients can make more for themselves!

Ingredients

3 large eggs
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup fresh lemon juice (about two large lemons)
2 tablespoon lemon zest (about two large lemons)
½ cup butter

Directions

Place eggs, sugar, salt, lemon juice and lemon zest in saucepan. Whisk until combined, then place over low heat.
Stir constantly, until mixture thickens, four to six minutes. On very low heat, add butter and stir until smooth.
Strain lemon curd into bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Allow to cool about 10 minutes, then refrigerate overnight.
Serve and refrigerate leftovers up to three days.

Cheesy Jalapeno Egg Muffins

20 minutes prep time, 40 minutes total time

For a busy neighbor or friend who is working from home while simultaneously managing their kids’ remote learning, why not make a tasty breakfast dish that can help them conquer the morning rush during the hectic holidays? This recipe can be frozen for later, and it works well for family get-togethers, since the individual portions make them easy to share safely.

Ingredients

10 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon pepper
2 jalapenos, 1 minced and thinly sliced, divided
2 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup cooked bacon, chopped

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Prepare standard muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.
In large bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, garlic powder and pepper. Add minced jalapeno, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese and bacon.
Divide mixture equally into prepared muffin tin. Top each muffin with a few jalapeno slices.
Bake 20-25 minutes, until eggs are set. Allow to cool slightly, then remove from muffin tin.
Serve and refrigerate leftovers up to three days.

Gift of Eggs Holiday Cookbook

Eggs offer endless possibilities — from delicious crab quiche to meringue carrot cookies for Santa’s reindeer. Get inspired with the “Gift of Eggs” holiday downloadable cookbook from the American Egg Board featuring eight gift recipes. With just two dozen eggs, you can make eight incredible recipes for trendy treats like lemon baked donuts or mini Bundt cakes with different-colored icing that are fun for both kids and parents to make.

These recipes are designed in smaller-sized portions to be displayed individually on a dessert board, so family members can select which one they want. Individual portions are safer for serving and gifting, and the smaller portions also allow more indulgence without the guilt! You could also include a couple of your family’s own recipe favorites written out on cards to share with your gift.

The Incredible Egg offers nutrition and good taste, no matter what recipe you use it in. Eggs are the foundation of so many delicious holiday dishes and treats, so having a couple dozen eggs in the fridge opens a world of possibilities for unique homemade gift ideas and special memories.

Check out these and other recipe possibilities at www.giftofeggs.com.


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5 fun ideas for stocking stuffer swaps

2020-12-10T12:01:01

(BPT) – This year, it’s a great idea to find new ways to lift everyone’s holiday spirits. One way is to be a little more creative when choosing or making stocking stuffers for your family. Why not swap out some of the same-old, same-old ideas? Search for fun new options, including a variety of unique toys and treats that will be sure to be a big hit with kids of all ages.

What could you switch out in everyone’s stockings this holiday season? Here are some ideas to get you started.

1. Mini chess games in place of puzzle books

Did you know that chess is back in a big way this year? And those puzzle books are so 2019. Look for fun mini, pocket or magnetic travel-sized versions of the timeless classic, so your kids can learn one of the greatest and most brain-boosting strategy games in history.

2. Rockit apples instead of marshmallow Santas

Offer up some cute and sweet Rockit apples in their stockings to add a better-for-you upgrade that will be sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. They’re deliciously sweet, miniature-sized apples that are irresistible. Check out where to find this naturally nutritious stocking stuffer here.

3. Temporary tattoos as a substitute for stickers

Today’s temporary tattoos that are made for kids come in all sorts of sizes and varieties, to suit anyone’s taste — and they are even available in fun and festive holiday themes. Kids love them! They’re really easy to apply — and even to take off when your kids are ready to move on. You can use baby wipes, clear tape or baby oil to help remove them easily when the time comes.

4. Phone accessories for kids who already have phones

For those tweens and teens on your list who may already have their own cell phones, consider getting them a stylish new pair of ear buds, or you could fill their stocking with a handy wireless charger so they can stay charged on the go, without having to find an outlet.

5. Slime in lieu of fidget spinners

Everyone’s probably well over the fidget spinner craze by now, so why not pick up some packages of colorful slime for your kids to play with? It’s stretchy and silly — and some even glows in the dark. Manipulating sensory materials like slime with your hands actually works as an instant stress reliever. You could pick some up for the adults in your life while you’re at it!

Let your imagination go wild when you’re choosing or creating stocking stuffers for your kids this holiday season. Add a little more brightness, sweetness and fun into your family’s life with unique treats and gifts that will make this year memorable in the best possible way.


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5 not-so-secret ways to make the most of your money

2020-12-10T07:01:01

(BPT) – The holidays are approaching, and New Year’s resolutions are top of mind. For many, this means thinking about how to be smart with your money. Whether you’re shopping for loved ones, looking to start a new hobby or treating yourself to something special, a little purchase planning goes a long way.

If you’re using a credit card, did you know there could be added perks right at your fingertips that could help you unlock even more value from your purchases? Here are some quick tips to help you take advantage of all the benefits and tools from your credit cards, so you’re not leaving anything on the table.

1. Take advantage of rewards

Some card issuers offer higher rewards on certain categories, such as groceries or drugstore purchases. Pay attention to the bonus categories offered with your card to make the most of your spending. You can also try shopping through your card issuer’s rewards portal on the mobile app or website, and you might even have access to extra points with certain retailers.

2. Use points to pay for purchases

Your credit card points can be just as valuable as the money in your pocket. Check your credit card rewards portal for all the redemption options that might be at your fingertips. Some, like Chase Ultimate Rewards, give you the option to redeem for gift cards, electronics and even statement credits toward charitable contributions.

3. Activate offers to unlock more value

You’ve probably heard of cash back and credit card points and miles, but did you know some cards have even more perks simply by having it in your wallet. For example, Chase’s Get More Now offers give eligible Chase credit cardmembers an easy way to unlock special perks all year long. All you have to do is go to www.chase.com/getmorenow, select your card and see the discounts and special offers available for you. You can activate or enroll and instantly start taking advantage of where you might already be using your card. Right now, eligible cardmembers can earn more rewards with Lyft, enjoy free 2-day shipping with ShopRunner and more.

4. Plan your spending

Spend your money wisely over the holidays by planning how you’ll pay for your purchases in advance. Chase recently introduced My Chase Plan, a digital ‘buy now, pay later’ feature that allows credit cardmembers the option to pay off purchases over a period of time that works for them with no interest, just a fixed monthly fee. And as an added bonus, you still earn rewards on the purchase. Before you purchase, you can even use the Plan Calculator to approximate what your payment plan will look like.

5. Track spending using your mobile banking app or online credit card portal

Knowing your expenses is one of the first steps to managing your money, and your mobile banking app or online credit card portal can be one of your best tools to do so. Instead of keeping physical receipts of all your purchases, log into your account to track how you’re spending money. Some apps will also give you a spending summary, so you can look at your annual spending through a customized view.

Whether you’re applying for a new credit card or looking to make the most of the one you have, be sure to tap into all the rewards and benefits available to you.

For more information on ongoing deals, discounts and free trial offers available to eligible Chase credit cardmembers, visit www.chase.com/getmorenow.


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Top cities for servicemembers transitioning to civilian life

2020-12-10T05:01:00

(BPT) – Are you a servicemember preparing to transition to civilian life? If so, you probably have a lot of questions, including where you should live after transitioning from service. If you are like other surveyed servicemembers this year, you are prioritizing low cost of living, low crime rates, and access to outdoor activities. What’s more, you probably are looking for somewhere that that fits with your personality and can give you a sense of community. You want a place to call home and grow roots.

“Every year, roughly 250,000 servicemembers transition to civilian life. This can be a difficult and confusing change that includes everything from revisiting your finances to moving,” says Clay Stackhouse, retired Marine Corps Colonel and Regional Outreach Manager at Navy Federal Credit Union. “You might prefer city living with public transportation or rural living with more space. It’s up to you and your individual needs.”

To create the list, Navy Federal surveyed 1,000 veterans and civilians about quality of life metrics, such as cost of living, housing affordability, access to recreational activities, proximity to health resources and transportation, and more. Those results were used to rank over 400 U.S. cities based on how they met transitioning servicemembers’ needs.

The 2020 Best Cities After Service list

Charleston, South Carolina

A city known for its hospitality, Charleston boasts low housing costs, access to cultural and natural activities, and a robust history. The city also hosts a vibrant military community with Joint Base Charleston just a quick 25-minute drive from the center of downtown.

Fort Myers, Florida

Cape Coral-Fort Myers has risen as a key destination for veterans looking to live in year-round sunshine. Residents are provided endless opportunities to enjoy all that Florida has to offer, from boating and fishing to water sports and nature preserves.

Savannah, Georgia

The oldest city in Georgia, enriched in captivating history, stunning coastal landscapes and antique homes, gives residents the feeling of being on an endless vacation. Plus, downtown offers a bustling art scene and live music from buskers and bands playing in the park.

Daphne, Alabama

With the ambiance of a small town and the activity of a big city, Daphne-Fairhope-Foley has fantastic weather. The area is known as a “pedestrian’s paradise” due to its many parks lined with Spanish moss oak trees and a downtown filled with restaurants, boutiques and galleries.

Norwich, Connecticut

Norwich, nicknamed “The Rose of New England,” is the largest city in the area and hosts a historic downtown. There’s also a significant military community in the area as nearby New London and Groton are home to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and the Naval Submarine Base New London.

San Diego, California

Famous for its stunning beaches and idyllic weather, the San Diego-Carlsbad area is home to the nation’s largest concentration of military personnel, with veterans making up 13% of all San Diegans, plus 13.5% of city businesses are veteran-owned, and 22% of the jobs in the area are connected to the military.

Norfolk, Virginia

The Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News region boasts a rich culinary scene, endless entertainment options and beautiful waterfront views. Also home to the world’s largest naval base, Naval Station Norfolk, the surrounding community is committed to supporting servicemembers and veterans alike.

Duluth, Minnesota

Duluth is perfect for those who thrive in a natural environment. Located on scenic Lake Superior, residents have easy access to fishing and boating, breathtaking waterfront trails, and kayaking or canoeing. The city is full of culture, history and family-friendly activities.

Gulfport, Mississippi

Home to more than a quarter of the state’s veteran community, Gulfport-Biloxi-Pascagoula is a hub for servicemembers and their families. Residents enjoy the region’s sunny beaches, low cost of living and laid-back Southern charm. In 2019, the state announced the construction of a $54-million state veterans home in the area.

Fort Worth, Texas

Fort Worth’s buzzing Sundance Square provides more than 35 square blocks of downtown dining, shopping and live entertainment. The more than 60,000 veterans that live in the area can catch a race at Fort Worth’s Texas Motor Speedway, and Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers games in nearby Arlington.

“Every servicemember’s transition is unique and I believe this list provides locations that will satisfy the needs of a majority of individual veterans and their families,” Stackhouse says.

Navy Federal Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA.


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4 easy steps: How to throw the ultimate virtual dinner party

2020-12-09T06:01:01

(BPT) – As Americans are increasingly staying home, we’re seeing the return of a longstanding tradition: the intimate dinner party with beloved family and friends.

“Food, drink, friends, good conversation — a dinner party is, in the end, a simple and enduring combination of ingredients, made unique by what hosts and guests infuse the evening with,” writes Laura Rysman in the New York Times.

Thinking of throwing your own virtual dinner party? Preparations don’t need to be lengthy or difficult if you follow a few simple tips. Consider the following suggestions for a warm, wonderful gathering that will leave your guests feeling loved and appreciated.

  1. Pull together the right guest list

With whom would you most enjoy spending time at your virtual event? Are there people you’ve been wanting to get to know better? Friends you wish to thank? Family members you haven’t seen in a long time? Decide who you’ll invite, then issue your invitations with ample time to reserve the date!

  1. Plan your menu – and decor

Try sticking to your favorite recipes, perhaps incorporating dishes you think of as your “specialties” and leave out any dishes that could become overly complex or stressful. List the ingredients you’ll need and pick them up a day or two ahead, so you’ll have plenty of time for the prep work. On the same trip, pick up flowers, candles, wood for your fireplace, holiday décor or anything else that will help you create a seasonal, welcoming ambiance.

  1. Assemble your tablescape

Even though it’s a virtual party, you’ll want to get out your best plates, glasses and silverware and make sure everything is clean and polished from set up to clean up. Of course, that will be nearly effortless if you’ve already installed the LG QuadWash dishwasher with TrueSteam. The dishwasher uses the gentle power of TrueSteam to clean and dry dishes, delivering 60 percent fewer water spots for brilliant, sparkling glassware. That means you won’t have to waste valuable time re-washing plates or wiping spotty glasses by hand.

  1. Have a Zoom activity in mind

Sometimes things on Zoom can start to get awkward with people talking over one another, so get a game ready for your virtual event. Trivia is always a crowd favorite and is perfect over Zoom! Try planning your event around a scheduled activity like the televised viewing of a movie, sports event, concert or theater performance.

Once preparations are in place, all that’s left to do is to sit back and enjoy the company and great food to make lasting memories. Seize the day and plan a dinner party with some of your favorite people. Find more information about the tools and machines that can help you in your quest at LG.com.


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5 laundry tips for keeping your clothes like new

2020-12-09T08:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re preserving a treasured hand-me-down, caring for an expensive sweater or just trying to maintain that perfect pair of jeans, the right cleaning steps can keep your favorite clothing looking and feeling better.

A key solution? Choosing the right tools, additives and procedures to care for your most favored wardrobe items.

“At first blush, learning how to do laundry is a simple task — throw in the clothes, add the detergent, press the button,” writes Kate Rockwood on Realsimple.com. “But after accidentally shrinking a sweater or ruining a few T-shirts with stubborn sweat stains, you quickly learn it’s more complicated than it seems.”

Unsure what you can be doing to better care for your favorite wardrobe? Consider the following five tips for a laundry process designed to work in your favor.

1) Address stains early

If you spill something on a treasured garment, immediately blot the spot with a clean white cloth. If the clothing label allows for machine washing, apply a spot treatment ASAP, following the specific directions provided. Once the garment is washed, check to ensure the spot is completely gone before moving it to your dryer; otherwise, the additional heat could further set any remaining stain.

2) Choose the right machine

All washers are not created equal; it’s worth shopping around for a model that features the technology you need to get the job done faster and more effectively. LG has a lot of options whether you prefer an agitator or impeller for your washing machine. Front load washers are undoubtedly the best on clothes and the LG Front Load Washer has the ability to both deep clean with the gentle power of TrueSteam and power clean with all 5 jets. If you prefer an agitator model, you’re still not far from the best. The LG Top Load Washer with Agitator, for example, has a 4-Way Agitator that uses up-and-down and back-and-forth movements to deep-clean your laundry with shorter cycles. This powerhouse, mega-capacity machine lets you customize the level of agitation to the delicacy of your clothes, and the LG ThinQ app lets you check on your cycle progress from anywhere at any time.

3) Prep garments for washing

Instead of tossing in your clothing indiscriminately, you’ll want to minimize the chances of snagging, pilling or other abrasions by zipping zippers and closing buckles, snaps, hooks and Velcro strips. Buttons are the exception; they should be left unbuttoned to prevent them from coming loose and to keep buttonholes from stretching. You may also wish to turn delicate items inside out and/or place them in mesh bags to prevent them from mingling with rougher or heavier-duty items.

4) Give whites special treatment

Your sturdier whites can best be kept bright by washing them separately in hot water with bleach. More delicate whites may be safely lightened via a half-cup of white vinegar pre-diluted in a gallon of water and added to your wash cycle; others may respond well to being naturally dried in the sun.

5) Customize settings

Many consumers don’t take time to fully utilize the settings on their washing machines that are intended for gentler care of delicate or fragile garments. If your clothing could be misshapen or shrunken by too much heat, wringing or agitation, you’ll want to pick the “delicate” or hand-wash” settings, opt for a cold-water wash and allow it to air dry instead of going through the dryer. As a general rule, hot water should be used for white loads, warm for average loads and cold for bright colors. You can also use the LG Styler to refresh garments. Using the power of steam, the LG Styler reduces odors and allergens on clothes for the perfect refresh.

Knowing how to best clean your favorite wardrobe items will help ensure they’ll last for as long as you want to wear them. Take time to learn laundry basics so you can enjoy your top picks well into the future. Find more laundry tips and information on the best possible laundry equipment for your needs at LG.com.