You might have heard people talking about them or maybe you’ve seen them around, but you’re still left wondering, what is a gazebo? Or perhaps you know the basics but you’d like to learn more.

A is an outdoor structure that provides shade and protection from the elements. You can buy them in a range of styles, shapes and sizes. Once you know more about them, it’s easier to find the right one for you.

What is a gazebo?

A gazebo is a freestanding structure that’s open-sided, rather than having walls or fixed sides like a or summerhouse. The primary function of a gazebo is to provide and shelter while you’re outside.

Although they’re often square or rectangular, you can find hexagonal, octagonal and other similarly shaped gazebos. They come in two main varieties: hardtop and soft-top.

Hardtop gazebos

As the name suggests, have roofs made from hard materials. More often than not, their canopies are made from metal or some type of hard plastic, such as vinyl. They’re more rugged than soft-top varieties, but they’re also significantly more expensive.

Gazebos of this type take a significant amount of time to set up and take down, so they’re designed to be either permanent or semi-permanent. They can either be concreted into the ground as a permanent structure or anchored with pegs or screws if you want to be able to move them.

Soft-top gazebos

Soft-top gazebos have canopies made from a sturdy fabric that’s UV-resistant and either naturally waterproof or has a waterproof coating. They’re more affordable than hardtop versions but not as durable.

They’re generally meant for temporary use, either for a day or week at a time or the full summer. Some soft-top gazebos have pop-up frames, making them even quicker and easier to put up and take down.

What are gazebos used for?

Now you know what gazebos are, but you might still be wondering what they’re used for. These are some of the most common ways to use gazebos.

• Shade: If your yard doesn’t have much natural shade, you’ll be able to sit out more comfortably and for longer when shaded by a gazebo.
• Shelter from rain: It’s frustrating when it’s warm enough to enjoy your backyard but it’s raining. However, with a gazebo, you can enjoy the fresh air while staying dry.
• Keeping bugs out: Many gazebos have curtains, so you can spend time outdoors without worrying about bugs.
• Grilling under: Thanks to their open sides, gazebos are safe to and can be used on rainy days or to provide shade when it’s hot out.
• Hot tubs: Gazebos make ideal covers for , providing shade and shelter from rain or snow.

How to choose the right gazebo

Think about size

You can choose from a wide range of sizes, from under 10 feet by 10 feet to over 14 feet by 20 feet. Consider what or how many people you want to fit under your gazebo and also the size of your outdoor space. You don’t want a gazebo to absolutely dwarf a small yard or look comically small in a large yard.

Decide if you want a permanent or temporary structure

Do you want a shelter just for the summer months or are you looking for something more permanent that you can enjoy year-round? Your answer to this question will dictate which type of gazebo is right for you: hardtop for permanent or long-term use or soft-top for short-term use.

Consider materials

Gazebos usually have metal frames, though some cheap models have plastic frames and some high-end versions have wooden frames. Roofs can be fabric, metal, plastic or even made from wooden shingles. Choose durable materials if you want your gazebo to last years to come.

Pay attention to side panels

While gazebos don’t have fixed sides, some have removable side panels or curtains that can be drawn around the edges. Some curtains are made from mesh to while maintaining airflow, while others are made from more solid fabric to help block out wind and rain.

Best gazebos

Lightweight yet durable, it’s made with an aluminum frame and a UV-blocking tinted plastic roof. It measures 10 feet by 10 feet, which is large enough to accommodate a group without taking over your yard.

This rugged hardtop gazebo is meant to be concreted into the ground as a permanent backyard structure. It’s available in four sizes between 10 feet by 14 feet and 12 feet by 18 feet.

With an aluminum frame and steel top, this is a highly durable choice of gazebo that comes in sizes between 10 feet by 12 feet and 12 feet by 20 feet. The double curtains have a mosquito net layer that you can use independently of the opaque fabric layer.

Taking just minutes to pop up and peg down, this is a great choice for occasional use or impromptu garden gatherings. It folds relatively small so you can take it camping or on day trips.

This stylish pop-up gazebo has a vented roof and mosquito net curtains to keep bugs at bay. It comes in six colors, including beige, blue and red.

Measuring 10 feet by 13 feet, this is relatively spacious for a soft-top gazebo. The sturdy frame is made of iron and the canopy and curtains are made of high-quality fabric.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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If you want to enjoy your to its fullest in every season, you need a way to keep cool when the weather turns warm. The best way to do that is by installing an outdoor ceiling fan that can keep the air circulating. Pick a powerful model since there may be crosswinds that affect how much of the fan’s cooling breeze actually reaches you. Also, consider its weatherproof rating to ensure it’s suitable for your installation location.

Weatherproofing

have two ratings: damp-rated and wet-rated.

• Damp-rated fans are installable outdoors where the air may be damp. They cannot be directly exposed to the elements, such as in covered and garages.
• Wet-rated fans are installable in locations that are completely exposed to the elements, such as and open decks. They have a sealed motor casing that protects their electrical components, even if they are constantly rained on.

Aesthetics

Aesthetics should play a major role in your decision-making process. Consider what kind of style you’ve already cultivated and look for a fan that will blend well with it. That could be contemporary, tropical, rustic or industrial chic, etc.

Mounting location

Some fans are flush-mounted. These are ideal for areas with low ceilings. Other models install on a downrod that may be as short as 4 inches or as long as 60. These work best in locations with a high ceiling. There are also outdoor fans that can use both installation methods.

Blades

Some assume the number of blades matters in determining airflow. This actually has a negligible effect. More important is the length and the pitch or tilt of the blades. The longer the blades and the deeper the pitch, the more air they move. Different-sized spaces are better served by different blade lengths.

Settings

Fans differ in their number of speed settings. Some have two speeds while others have as many as seven. The more speeds a fan has, the more control you have over airflow. Some fans also have a reversible motor that spins backward. This pulls warm air up and away from the ground.

Best outdoor ceiling fan for the money

When it comes to bang for the buck, it’s hard to beat the Merrimack II. It offers all the style of a premium model and many of the same features but for a more palatable price. It’s installable flush to the ceiling or on the included downrod. It fits in with many decor schemes, too, and the blades are reversible with a different color on each side.

Best smart outdoor ceiling fan

If you are searching for a high-tech fan, look no further. It’s controllable via smartphone or by voice when paired with an Alexa device. You can set schedules and timers for both the fan component and its dimmable light. Plus, despite its power, it’s quiet.

Best modern outdoor ceiling fan

This eye-catching ceiling fan has intriguingly shaped blades. It’s available in a wide variety of colorways, including options like aged pewter and weathered oak or brushed steel and dark walnut. It also comes with a six-speed handheld .

Best tropical-inspired outdoor ceiling fan

Bring a tropical resort feel into your outdoor space with this fern-leaf-inspired fan. It’s damp-rated for covered areas, has three speed settings and you can attach a light with an optional . The blades are plastic but are mistakable for wood unless closely inspected.

Best outdoor ceiling fan for large spaces

If you want to cool a large space, this 72-inch, nine-blade fan does the trick. It has six speed settings and moves up to 10,200 cubic feet of air per minute. The motor is reversible to push cold air toward the ground or draw hot air away. It has a one-year warranty.

Best outdoor ceiling fan for small spaces

Falling into the opposite end of the spectrum as the Big Air 72-inch is this short-bladed smart fan. It measures only 26 inches in diameter and can fit almost anywhere, but still moves a respectable 5,084 cubic feet of air per minute. It’s quieter than most fans, too. You can control it via an app or by voice if paired with an Alexa device.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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Americans are notorious for not using up all of their . To make sure you get away for a little “you” time this year, think beyond your vision board and purchase that new swimsuit today. Once you own it, you’ll have to show it off. There’s one bestselling option from Amazon that shoppers claim is the most flattering. But since all tastes (and bodies) differ, consider these swimsuits to help make that dream getaway a reality.

What makes a swimsuit flattering?

There is no one that is universally flattering for every body type. What works on a short torso might be the wrong look for a long torso. To get the most flattering swimsuit, you have to consider your body type. As a rule of thumb, you want to balance out your proportions. For instance, people with curvy hips may desire an attention-getting top so all the focus isn’t directed to the lower part of your body. An athletic build, on the other hand, might best be served by a swimsuit that creates the illusion of a shapelier figure.

More important than choosing the swimsuit that is “supposed” to be flattering is to pick one that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Attitude is much more provocative than style. Whatever you decide to wear this summer, don’t apologize. Own your look.

Amazon’s best women’s swimsuits

This is a longtime bestseller in Amazon’s “Women’s One-Piece Swimsuits” category. It is a criss-cross one-piece bathing suit with a tie closure. The ruched waist gives you both coverage and style, while the design offers comfortable support.

This has an appealing asymmetrical off-the-shoulder style. It features a ruffle trim, soft bra padding and a tummy control mesh panel. This model runs small, so it’s best to size up.

If you’re a fan of nostalgia, this vintage pin-up swimsuit features a bold black-and-white striped top with a slimming black bottom. The adjustable halter straps and drawstring closure provide a comfortable and secure fit. It’s also available in .

This chlorine-resistant has a pull-on closure and is made with pill-resistant fabric. The stylish swimsuit also features UPF 50+ protection to block up to 98% of the sun’s harmful rays.

For women who prefer a two-piece option, this pastel is a winner. The ruffled top provides impressive coverage, while the fast-drying material makes it a skin-friendly option. Whether you’re going on a cruise or just lounging on the beach, this comfortable swimsuit will quickly become your favorite summer apparel.

This swimsuit is the equivalent of a little black dress. It’s basic yet elegant, making it suitable for a variety of water-related activities. The fully lined suit provides support while guarding against transparency. The built-in shelf bra has removable cups, and the shoulder straps are adjustable to provide a custom fit.

Other swimsuits worth checking out

• This colorful has just the type of understated style that will get you compliments.
• If you have a passion for vintage styles, this could be the perfect two-piece option for you.
• For tastes that are a little more sophisticated, this features an elegant high-neck plunge.
• This eye-catching features a gorgeous floral design and has a V-neck and keyhole details.
• Curves are an asset. This is another one of Amazon’s most flattering options.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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How do you start a flower bed in front of your house?

1. Identify your garden’s border: If you want a simple rectangular or square flower bed, you can use a yardstick and non-toxic spray paint to identify your garden’s . If you want your flower bed to be a rounded, organic shape, you can use a to determine the shape and size. Once you’ve identified the shape and size, spray the outline of the garden hose with non-toxic spray paint.
2. Remove grass from your flower bed: Use a or to remove the grass from the flower bed. Be sure to remove all and grass. Lay down landscaping fabric to avoid weeds popping up in the future.
3. Prepare the soil: If you’re using a contained flower bed, ensure it has proper drainage. Use a mixture of for your flowers. Your yard’s may be adequate for growing flowers, but you’ll likely need to add a potting mix with nutrients. Adding a layer of topsoil gives your plants a good base for growth.
4. Consider the sunlight: It’s important to consider how much sunlight your flower bed will get throughout the day. Your house will provide shade for roughly half the day. Choose flowers that thrive with the amount of sunlight they’ll receive in front of your home. Plant taller plants closer to your home and shorter plants closer to the edge of the garden bed — this ensures your flowers receive adequate light and makes them easier to see from the sidewalk.
5. : Consider buying annuals if you want to replace your flowers as the seasons change. On the other hand, choose perennials if you want flowers that will last from year to year.
6. Choose the right colors: Choosing flowers with complementary colors is essential. Using warm colors creates a vibrant palette that looks great in front of most homes. Monochromatic palettes featuring all white flowers look great in the moonlight.
7. Consider upcycling: You don’t have to buy brand-new materials to create a . Many people use bricks, concrete blocks and stones that would otherwise go unused. Bricks and stones provide a unique aesthetic and adequate drainage for your flower bed. In some cases, people use upcycled metal roofing or pallet boards to . Window frames are a popular option for those that need a cold frame for their garden.
8. Use the right tools: If you’re building a flower bed frame from scratch, make sure you have a to drive screws through the wood. Ensure you have to protect your hands from potentially dangerous twigs and roots when pulling weeds. Buying with longer handles prevents you from having to bend over excessively. If you are working on your knees, consider using knee pads, a yoga mat or a to prevent knee injuries.
9. Space your flowers out: Most flowers need room to grow correctly. The should indicate how much space you need to leave around your flowers.
10. Consider transplants: If you have trouble starting seeds, consider buying transplants instead. When using transplants, make sure the flowers’ crowns are level with the soil. If you plant the crown too high, the plant will dry out — if you plant the crown too low, the plant may rot.

Best products for planting a flower bed in front of your house

This is ideal for driving screws and making holes in your raised bed. This set includes nearly any bit you’d need to build a raised bed. It is lightweight, cordless and easy to use. Its multi-position clutch prevents stripping and overdriving screws, making it ideal for those using upcycled wood.

It’s ideal for removing weeds and grass from your flower bed. The long handle prevents excessive bending over, and you can use it with two hands. This can be purchased with or without a garden bag. Users felt this device was sturdy when used appropriately.

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This is extra-thick, comfortable and easy to move around. This may be a bit too firm for those with arthritic knees, but most users were thrilled with its sturdiness. It’s available in 10 colors.

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Hammock camping might sound gimmicky initially, but it’s essentially the same as regular camping, except you sleep in a hammock instead of a tent. If you’ve ever kicked back on a , you’re already familiar with how comfortable they are, making them an appealing alternative for campers.

What is hammock camping?

Fundamentals

As previously mentioned, hammock camping means you’ll sleep on a instead of in a or on covers in a tent. Although it’s not as common as traditional tent camping, it’s becoming increasingly popular. It’s a great way to shake things up on your next wilderness adventure. It might seem a bit intimidating if you’ve never done it, but setting up is a piece of cake once you have what you need.

Tent vs. hammock

There’s no questioning the allure of sleeping in a grounded tent, as it’s the most traditional way to camp and offers more space for other belongings. Hammocks are intended solely for sleeping, but if you have all the right gear, they’re surprisingly easy to set up and take down.

Why should I go hammock camping instead of traditional camping?

Hammock camping offers a way to travel light and eliminates the need for you to find a solid foundation to sleep on. Finding two sturdy trees close together to hang your hammock can be challenging, but once you do, you’re practically guaranteed a more comfortable sleep. You’d also be resting at a higher vantage point, letting you be more in tune with what’s happening around you.

What do I need to get started?

Camping hammock

Before you buy anything else for your upcoming camping trip, you’ll need a tent. Camping hammocks differ from yard hammocks. They’re designed to hang from trees and made with durable materials to provide adequate comfort and protection.

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Bug net

Bugs are the bane of every camper’s existence, so it’s wise to bring a bug net along whenever you plan on sleeping in the wilderness. A quality is made of mesh fabric designed to enclose you with the hammock and keep out all insects. However, keep in mind that although you’d be enveloped inside your hammock, you should still be able to breathe comfortably.

What are the components of a camping hammock?

Suspension

The suspensions are the parts that attach to the trees and hold a hammock up. There are many suspension types, but the most popular are rope, webbing and daisy chain straps. Rope suspensions are the most affordable, but webbing and daisy chain straps are more secure and easier to attach and adjust.

Ridgeline

The ridgeline is a stiff cord that runs across the top of the hammock, joining together both ends. It’s primarily used to attach bug nets or tarps. Some campers also adjust the ridgeline to position the hammock at a specific angle. This can be helpful if you want to find a more comfortable position to sleep in.

Keep in mind that not all camping hammocks come with ridgelines. You can purchase one separately, but some prefer improvising and fashioning a ridgeline from a parachute cord.

What accessories do I need for hammock camping?

, a ,  and hardware tools are essential, but it’s best to consider bringing a few additional items to give you the best hammock camping experience. You’ll want to keep insects out of your hammock, so a breathable net made of breathable mesh fabric is a must. Also, a or rain fly is necessary for staying dry should it rain.

FAQ

Q. Is hammock camping safe?

A. As long as the hammock is set up and secure correctly, hammock camping is safe. However, it’s best to always set up a camping hammock over flat ground.

Q. Can children use camping hammocks?

A. Yes, but it’s best to set it up with a low center of gravity so they can safely get on and off.

What you need to buy for hammock camping

Best camping hammocks

If you’re looking for a hybrid hammock and tent, this is the one for you. The packing weight is just 4.25 pounds, and it has arch poles and ÃÛÍÃÖ±²¥er bars that help keep the bed flat.

This camping hammock is affordable and will keep you well-protected against the elements as you sleep. It is made with tear-resistant nylon, has an accessory pouch and supports up to 350 pounds.

This camping hammock offers maximum protection and ample space, and it is made with breathable nylon. It comes with a net and a storage bag that can be used to secure small items, and it weighs just 2 pounds when packed down.

Best hammock camping gear

Avoid painful and with this high-quality bug net. It has a ridgeline and speed clips for a quick setup, and the dual-sided diagonal zipper lets you easily hop in and out of your hammock.

If you want to upgrade your hammock’s suspension system, this poly-filament webbing is excellent and will keep you secure. It has 30 attachment points and is strong enough to hold two or three people.

This waterproof tarp is what you need to keep dry from rain while hammock camping. It’s lightweight, durable and easy to set up, and it tightens at every corner.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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This features a stainless steel, double-walled design that keeps wine cool for hours. It fits most wine bottles with a capacity of 750 milliliters. It’s durable and easy to use. It’s available in 11 colors, including blue, pink and rose gold.

This has a stylish, compact design. It’s available with or without a gas burner. It heats up quickly; wood will produce higher temperatures than gas. It’s intuitive, although there is a bit of a learning curve. The flames naturally burn off crumbs and debris, making cleanup a breeze.

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This has a splash-resistant design and a bass-booster feature. It has LED lights above and below the speaker. You can plug a microphone or guitar in to perform for your loved ones. The battery lasts around 20 hours on a single charge.

The flat cooking surface is ideal for hibachi, burgers and other fun meals. The dual burners ensure even heat distribution. It has wheels for enhanced maneuverability. The shelf on the bottom is perfect for storing food or cooking tools.

Its spacious design can accommodate various foods, such as cakes, casseroles or deviled eggs. It’s collapsible, so it won’t take up too much space in your cabinets. It comes with an appetizer tray and a deviled egg tray.

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Buying lots of houseplants to create an “indoor jungle” is a social media trend that seems here to stay. With all the touted , stress-reducing goodness of plants, owning some not only beautifies your space, but can be beneficial to your health.

Some people find that once they start buying plants, it’s hard to stop: One plant becomes two, which soon becomes four, which can quickly turn into an indoor .

Unfortunately, the cost of all those plants can add up. Thankfully, there are a few steps you can take to buy houseplants without emptying your wallet.

Plan for your houseplants

Budget

If you’re on a budget, plan things out before you buy. In particular, decide which kinds of plants you want and where you’d like them to go. By planning, you can make efficient purchases. An excellent way to start is to make a wish list.

Consider plant care

While you’re making your list, do a little research on required care. Depending on the types of plants you choose, care may be more complicated than you’d like.

Choose plants with common features

Once you have a sizable wish list, determine which plants have common features. Buying plants with similar needs makes it easier to care for them. For example, if you notice your list contains many , you’ll learn they can likely all be around the same time. Likewise, succulents need similar soil and containers.

If you like a wide array of plants, prioritize them and buy your favorites first. If you have a few plants you’re deciding between, choose plants that are easy to care for.

Choose easy-care plants

Since many plants live so long, they sometimes cost more upfront. However, they’re more likely to grow and less likely to die, saving you time and money. Some notable plants for inexperienced gardeners include air plants, ponytail palms and ZZ plants.

• Air plants are relatively small plants that are easy to incorporate into décor. Air plants only require indirect sunlight and occasional water misting.
• While ponytail palms may look high-maintenance, they’re easy to take care of. With proper care, these hardy palms can live to be 100 years old.
• ZZ plants are notoriously hard to kill. Their water-storing roots make them especially good if you’re prone to forgetting to water.
• If you’re looking to bring some color to your home, begonias make a great addition. As long as they have full light, begonias will usually bloom all year and don’t need much water.

•  are colorful flowers that add a quirky pop to any home.

Pick common varieties of houseplants

By choosing tried-and-true kinds of plants, you can save money while still buying beautiful greenery. If you’re on a tight budget, you can usually find or ask for cuttings of common plants. Snake plants, spider plants and pothos are all popular and easy to propagate.

Christmas cactuses selectively bloom, and they require minimal care. They live long enough to be passed down from generation to generation.

Snake plants are simple to care for and can even survive in dark rooms. They’re also sharable, as you only need a small leaf cutting to propagate.

Pothos are extremely popular, easy to care for and relatively easy to propagate. All they need is water and indirect sunlight.

Aloe vera is a hardy plant that enjoys being root-bound. While it doesn’t propagate quickly, it’s wideÃÛÍÃÖ±²¥ and useful.

Buy the right soil for your houseplants

Healthy plants start with good . Choose soil that has good drainage and suits your plants’ needs. In particular, look for soils that contain a lot of organic matter.

If you know you want to have multiple plants, it’s best to buy soil and containers in bulk. On the other hand, if you only want a few plants, go for quality over quantity.

This soil is specifically formulated for indoor plants. It contains coconut coir, which helps the soil to rehydrate.

This houseplant soil is specifically formulated to be resistant to bugs and provide nutrients. The ingredients ensure that the soil is less prone to gnats and conducive to grow indoor houseplants.

Enhance the soil of your houseplants

If you already have soil and want to improve it, there are several things you can add. In general, adding organic matter will enhance any soil.

 offer various nutrients and organic matter, making them perfect for supporting any soil type.

 can be added in small amounts to your soil to improve water regulation. Succulents and other desert plants benefit most from the addition of perlite to the soil.

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Anyone who has ever spent time with a can attest to their seemingly boundless energy. But the typical romping and playing often turn up a notch, resulting in a pup running about at what seems like the speed of light. The technical term for these bursts of energy is frenetic random activity periods but is more commonly known as the zoomies.

Puppies are adorable, but dealing with the zoomies can be frustrating. Just as puppy training is essential to developing good behavior, ways to help your puppy work through periodic bursts of energy are a must. Once you help your puppy handle hyperactivity, you will be able to stay focused on their cuteness and not get distracted by rambunctious releases of pent-up energy.

Why puppies get the zoomies

The release of pent-up energy is the primary reason behind puppy zoomies. This hyperactivity may occur after puppies have spent several hours without interaction with their humans. Zoomie activity may also take place when puppies need more exercise or are simply expressing extreme joy.

, play with another canine and stress caused by factors like new surroundings and vet visits may also trigger zoomies. Although this zippy behavior is normal for pups, it may rarely indicate a health concern such as stress, pain or an undiagnosed condition. Therefore, if your puppy has zoomies that occur with other symptoms like panting or whimpering, it’s a good idea to see your vet.

Ways to help ease puppy zoomies

Indulge in play

Puppies love attention and get bored quickly. Spending time with your best friend is stimulating, promotes bonding and helps them release energy in a positive way. During this time, play is essential. Classic like balls and are perfect for playing fetch.

Crate train

Not only is crate training the best way to set boundaries and housebreak a new puppy, but a provides a space of its own that promotes a sense of safety and calm. Crate time will help ease the zoomies when puppies get out of control and need a time-out.

Challenge a puppy mentally

Toys that stimulate young canine minds help to release energy and calm hyperactive behavior. Investing in a toy that prompts your pooch to find an item, solve a puzzle or dispense a treat will keep them intrigued and less likely to zoom around the house.

Satisfy the urge to chew

Puppies also release energy when they chew, as this is a natural urge they need to satisfy. When this need is met, it has a calming effect. Teething toys that are designed for active chewers help in this regard.

Take walks

is one of the best ways to expend excess energy. Walk your pet at least once a day, making it a long walk whenever possible. Taking a walk in the morning and another in the evening before bedtime is a good plan for extremely energetic pups.

Don’t encourage the behavior

When your puppy zips around, you may be tempted to join in with them. However, this will encourage the zoomies. To counteract it, don’t engage in a chase, and provide a few to enforce good behavior.

Try calming products

If your puppy has extreme zoomies that make you feel overwhelmed, check with your vet to see if a calming supplement is a good option. These products chiefly contain natural ingredients that ease overactive pets and are available without a prescription. Typically, they are suitable for puppies over 12 weeks old.

Safety when dealing with puppy zoomies

Regardless of how you choose to guide your puppy through the zoomies, following these tips will help ensure that safety comes first.

• Never let your puppy play with toys without supervision.
• Discard chewed or broken toys that could become a choking hazard.
• Choose a well-fitting or and durable leash.
• Don’t let your puppy run off-leash in parks or near roads.
• Keep your puppy away from stairs and other indoor hazards when the zoomies occur.

Best products for dealing with puppy zoomies

These three soft toys don’t contain stuffing, so there’s no mess when determined chewers tug and tear the material. They have squeakers, crinkle paper and fun designs that encourage play.

In addition to a durable build, these crates are easy to set up and fold for storage. They are available in several sizes.

This interactive puzzle toy provides hours of entertainment as pups search for hidden treats. It provides a level-one challenge, so it’s not too difficult for young pooches to tackle.

Did you know that the popular just for puppies? Although tough like the adult dog version, the puppy KONG is constructed of a softer rubber that’s ideal for young canines that love to chew.

This well-made , so it’s great for leash training. It features durable buckles and clips that make it simple to adjust for a perfect fit.

With wholesome ingredients and tasty flavors puppies love, these treats encourage puppies during training and are good for them too. Dogs of all ages enjoy the soft consistency.

Quiet Moments soft chews are made with ingredients like chamomile and L-tryptophan that ease canine anxiety. They are made in the USA without dairy or wheat and can be given to puppies 12 months and older.

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What to know before buying blackout curtains

Types of blackout curtains

• Room-darkening curtains: These block out roughly 90% to 95% of the light entering your room. They’re ideal if you want to keep your room cool while still allowing some light to shine through. Still, you’ll want to buy thermal-insulated room-darkening curtains to ensure they reduce the heat entering your home.
• Blackout liners: You can hang these on the back of your curtains to turn them into blackout curtains. They’re usually affordable and ideal if you don’t want to replace your curtains.
• Thermal curtains: These are the best choice for reducing your home’s interior heat. Thermal curtains help insulate the room in addition to blocking light.

Can blackout curtains keep your home warm in the winter?

Thermal-insulated blackout curtains are ideal for summer and winter. They keep your home cool by blocking sunlight during the summer. Additionally, during the winter, they help insulate your room, keeping heat from escaping your home.

Other uses for blackout curtains

• Get a good night’s sleep: ÃÛÍÃÖ±²¥ helping to , blackout curtains are an ideal way to keep the early-morning light from waking you.
• Reduce noise: Thick curtains help reduce the amount of outside noise you hear in your home, making them ideal for those that live near busy streets.
• Protect surfaces from fading: These curtains help protect lamp shades, tables and other items from fading. Additionally, blackout liners are an ideal way to keep your curtains from fading over time.
• Enhance your privacy: Blackout curtains increase your home’s since they’re harder to see through than other curtains.
• Reduce TV glare: If you can’t seem to keep the sun from ruining your movie night, blackout curtains may be the solution.

Blackout curtain FAQ

Are all blackout curtains black?

A. Blackout curtains come in a variety of colors, including white. Still, most have a thick, black panel of fabric on the side that faces the sun.

Will you need to use an air conditioner after hanging blackout curtains?

A. These curtains help keep heat out of your home, but they don’t cool it. If you live in a particularly hot area, you may still need to run your AC occasionally or use a personal air conditioner.

Are blackout curtains difficult to hang?

A. They’re hung the same way as other curtains but are often heavier. It’s essential to ensure they hang a few inches wider than the actual window to keep heat from making its way into your home.

Are there any drawbacks to using blackout curtains?

A. These curtains can make your home incredibly dark, meaning you may leave the lights on more often. They’re relatively heavy, so you may need thick, durable curtain rods. Many are black on the back side, which may not blend well with your home’s exterior color.

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Best blackout curtains

These are available in 11 sizes and 18 colors. They’re machine washable and easy to install. Many were surprised by how effective they were at reducing heat and noise. Some people reported up to a 30-degree difference in their homes after installing these.

These measure 52 inches wide and 84 inches long. They’re available in 26 colors. Some said they were difficult to de-wrinkle. Still, most people were impressed with how well these blocked light in their homes. Even the white curtains seemed to do an excellent job.

These are available in five sizes and five colors. You’ll receive a set of two curtain panels. They’re thinner than some blackout curtains, allowing some light to shine through.

These are available in 20 colors and 13 sizes. They are relatively affordable. They are thinner than other blackout curtains and may allow some light to shine through. Still, most were impressed with their effectiveness.

These are available in four sizes and 13 colors. It only includes one curtain panel, so you may need to order two for larger windows. Some people received damaged panels, but Wayfair was quick to replace them.

These are available in 14 sizes and 24 colors. These budget-friendly curtains do an excellent job blocking light. Most were impressed with the durable material.

Best blackout liners

These are available in six sizes. They are machine-washable and easy to hang. Many reported a 5-degree temperature drop in their homes after installing these.

These are available in six sizes and four colors. You’ll receive a set of two liners. They do an excellent job darkening the room but don’t block 100% of the light or heat. They are easy to install.

These are available in three sizes and are machine-washable. Installation is easy and doesn’t require removing your existing curtains. They arrive with a slight odor, although most reported it dissipating relatively quickly.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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If you’ve put time and money into creating the perfect , you have something beautiful to gaze upon all day long. If you install garden lights, you can appreciate your favorite outdoor space long after the sun goes down.

Garden lights create a warm ambiance when they’re strategically placed throughout your outdoor space. You can highlight a blooming or you can illuminate the walkway to your .

Wondering which garden lights you should buy? Here’s everything you need to know, including some recommendations.

What do I need to know about garden lights?

Perks of garden lights

Garden lights add more than aesthetic appeal to your outdoor space.

• Garden lights enhance ambiance, making an outdoor space warm and inviting. They offer a modest amount of light to nighttime outdoor gatherings.
• Many people install garden lights to boost if they’re planning on listing their house for sale. While the lights don’t officially add dollars-and-cents value to a house, they may contribute to its overall attractiveness to buyers.
• Garden lights are helpful for illuminating paths so you can always see where you’re going if you’re taking out the garbage or taking the dog for a walk.
• Some people feel garden lights function as crime deterrents, especially those with .

Brightness

According to , brightness, or light output, is expressed in lumens as opposed to watts. The higher the lumens, the brighter the light.

If you’re wondering how to choose the right brightness in garden lights, most manufacturers indicate the intended uses and locations for outdoor lights on packaging. Motion sensor lights, for example, are generally brighter than path, step or .

Color

Garden lights are available in a variety of colors that range from warm to cool colors. Light color is expressed in Kelvin units on a spectrum of 2200K to 6500K. indicates that the lower the number, the warmer the light. Conversely, the higher the number, the cooler it appears.

Warmer light may be used for mood lighting because it exudes an inviting tone. Cooler light, on the other hand, is closer to natural daylight and has a clean, crisp appearance.

In terms of choosing the best color for garden lights, it boils down to preference. There aren’t any hard and fast rules on light colors, though many consumers agree that the right light color dramatically improves ambiance.

Power

Garden lights are often battery- or , though there are some lights that either require electrical wiring or access to an A/C outlet. Here’s how they compare:

• Solar garden lights are considered low-maintenance and energy-efficient. They’re also affordable long-term because you don’t need to purchase replacement batteries.

• Battery-powered lights require more upkeep with the ongoing cost of battery replacements, making them less popular than solar lights.

• Lights that require access to an A/C outlet, like string lights, may require outdoor extension cords. For some people, this may create logistical challenges.

• Some lights, such as spotlights or security lights, need to be hardwired. Installation is a bit more complicated with these and may require a licensed electrician.

What types of garden lights are there?

Solar garden lights

Solar garden lights are installed in sunny spots around gardens and outdoor spaces. They automatically turn on when it gets dark outside. Unfortunately, some solar lights aren’t very bright.

LED garden lights

LED garden lights remain popular for their bright, clear light. They’re energy-efficient and suitable for most areas around the garden. Their brightness, however, may be intrusive or bothersome to neighbors.

Adjustable garden lights

Adjustable garden lights, also called spotlights, offer customizable lighting options. They’re low-profile so as not to detract from the natural beauty of a garden. One of the pitfalls of spotlights is that you’ll need several to achieve the lighting effect you desire.

Others types of garden lights

Other garden lights include deck, string, fiber optic or step lights. You’ll also find lamp posts, pond lights and fountain lights in this category. Given their diversity in color, brightness and design, you may need to put effort into planning and design to achieve the best lighting effect.

Best garden lights

These reactive lights are suitable for porch and deck steps. The battery-powered lights last depend on the frequency of use.

If you’re searching for garden lights that blend in, try these rock spotlights. They give you two light color options as well: warm white or green.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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