Robin Wilson

Robin's Favorite: Benjamin Moore AURA paint

Benjamin Moore paint - AURA (low VOC) and Natura (no VOC) - lines which meet the strictest state standards of California. This paint has a self-primer which can save labor costs, and also one hour after painting, there is no paint smell which is great for asthma & allergies.The paint is ranked in the top performance levels among 21 eco- or green-conventional paints by Consumer Reports. Learn more

Simple Tips before you start a Kitchen Remodeling project !

There are so many people who recognize that the kitchen of their dreams is just around the corner -and they also consider a local independent kitchen dealer - they have the budget, they have the design, or they want to remodel before putting the house on the market. But, are these good ideas? Here is a bit of advice to get the best value from your kitchen remodel.

• Don't remodel your kitchen for a prospective buyer because you may not get back 100% of what you spend. Typical payback is 50%-80% with the less personal renovations (i.e. neutral tones) receiving the most payback.
• Don't walk into a kitchen design meeting without a list of 'absolutes' or you will get seduced into buying everything...do you really need a knife or baking drawer with custom cuts for your utensils?
• Don't walk in to a kitchen supplier without knowing your preferences for cabinet colors such as white, maple, ebony. Read magazines and tear out photos in advance or the sales rep may convince you that there is a certain "best seller" that is really just a higher priced model.
• Don't ignore how you use your kitchen - if you have a busy kitchen (preparing more than 3 meals a day), then you might want to avoid certain countertop products such as concrete, paper or bamboo and consider other eco-friendly options such as Silestone or Caesarstone.
• Don't buy a range that has an extreme BTU number as it does not guarantee better performance. It is better to find a range that has at lease one burner with a high BTU number and then use that if you need to cook an item quickly.
• Don't buy a "faux-pro" model or Professional Series unles you "want it". Most mainstream appliances (ranges/refrigerators) perform just as well.
• Don't ignore common sense and hire a contractor simply on price. Ask to see a recently installed kitchen, and ask to see a kitchen that was installed 3 years ago. If it is an older installation, you will be able to see if it was able to stand the test of time. And make sure you have a copy of the contractor license and insurance in file should an issue arise.
• Don't opt for extended appliance warranties.
• Don't expect completion time to be on the day you request - ask for a completion date, but expeect at least two extra weeks to ensure final details such as installation of knobs, pulls, late tile deliveries requiring another trip for backsplash installation.
• Don't buy a built in fridge ($3,000+) when you can buy a cabinet-depth refrigerator.
• Don't buy fluorescent undermount bulbs when you can do low-voltage alternatives such as halogen, LED or xenon.

Is Your Home Making You Sick?

Are You Sleeping in a Chemical Factory?

Sick building (and now "sick home") syndrome is not a new phenomenon, and it was recognized by the Environmental Protection Agency in a 1994 report regarding indoor air pollution. In the report, one learns that air inside the home can be up to 3-5 times as polluted as outside air. The report cites a main culprit as volatile organic compounds - emitted as gases that can contain harmful chemicals. Reactions can include sinus irritation, nausea and headaches - and some people think it is just a cold.

Paint is only one source of VOCs which in a newly painted room can "off-gas" for up to a year. Pressed-wood furniture, permanent press fabric and mattress ticking also release VOCs, including formaldehyde. And using non-organic sheets, towels and clothing can also introduce you to pesticides.

It is virtually impossible to stay away from all these products, but you can definitely implement a few measures to improve your VOC and toxin exposure:

• Change your air-conditioner/heater filter on a monthly basis
• Utilize cotton towels and sheets and hypoallergenic pillows
• Speak to your plant horticulturist about plants that filter air
• Use energy efficient lighting such as LED lighting by JUNO or CREE
• Review the cleaning products used in your home
• Know what type of rugs and carpets are used in your home (nylon/vinyl backed is not good!)
• Once a week, open the windows for just 30 minutes

Can Hypo-Allergenic Mean Beautiful, Too?

Those of us who have made major changes in our lives because of asthma or allergies know what it is like to give up things we love. Here at Robin Wilson Home, we’re changing all that with our new line of bedding.

We believe that every home should be a happy and beautiful home, especially when a family member has special health needs. That’s the way it was for Robin, growing up with asthma and parents who cared about her good health.

Her mother did everything she could to protect her health, while brightening her home with warmth and spirit. Her new line of bedding and home fashion is beautiful, comfortable and eco-healthy. No compromises, it is home fashion that looks good, feels good and is good for you.

You could say that Robin is on a mission. She wants every family to experience beauty, wellness and to be able to do that affordably. Her new bedding collection is soft, elegant with modern classic lines. She worked hard to make sure it was priced right, and to make it available in time for Spring, when many of us are most sensitive to allergens.

Right now, 1 in 4 people in the United States restrict their lives and make compromises because of their respiratory conditions. It’s not easy, and Robin wants to do something about it.

When you read the details, you’ll see that all of Robin Wilson Home’s pure, basic bedding has "hypoallergenic qualities due to its innovative weave technology, designed to prevent allergen triggers from penetrating the bedding."

But, can something so functional be beautiful, too? We certainly think so.

Let Robin know what you think about her line, and share your stories of bringing beauty to your life and home, while keeping it healthy and safe for you and your family.

And, sign up for our e-newsletter for ongoing updates and news. Like us on Facebook for more special offers from Robin Wilson Home, including the opportunity to win bedding and a free virtual room makeover from Robin herself.

Product of Day: FLOR Modular Carpet Tiles

We recommend FLOR inspired modular floorcovering for our clients, which is a 'green' product. FLOR is a modular carpet tile that comes in a variety of colors and patterns, allowing you to design your own easy area rug for the kitchen, nursery or living room. No glue is needed for installation, so your existing floors won't be ruined. Instead, dots with the sticky side up connect each 19.7" x 19.7" carpet tile together.

FLOR is a quick do-it-yourself project that can be installed over any level, dry surface — even vinyl. This is a great product for heavy-traffic rooms and spaces for family rooms. These carpet tiles can be laid parquet style with ribbing in different directions and can enhance the upscale feel of any space. Pricing is from $6.99 to $59.00 per tile.

Explore the options the FLOR website.

Diet Tip Of Day: 4 Foods to help Weight Loss

Simple diet additions can change your waist - and help you lose weight!

• Apples: Eating an apple–or two–a day can keep the doctor away and the extra pounds.  Studies have found that eating an apple a half hour to an hour before a meal cuts the calories of the meal. Another benefit from this fruit is you feel full, so you eat less.
• Protein: Dietary studies have repeatedly found that when people eat an egg every morning in addition to (or instead of) toast or cereal, they lose twice as much weight as those who eat a breakfast that’s dominated by carbs.
• Cinnamon: This spice can help your body metabolize sugar, according to USDA study involving diabetics. Eating as little as 1/4 to 2 teaspoons of cinnamon a day was found to reduce blood sugar levels and cut cholesterol from 10 to 25 percent. You can add cinnamon to smoothies or flavor your coffee with it.

Safety Tip of Day: Pool Alarm System for Children & Pets

Summertime, Swimming and Sun...and water safety! The hidden danger is that many people assume that they can keep an eye on their pets, grill and guests - while still watching the children. We want to make sure that you are aware of a product that will give you "peace of mind"...

Consider a purchase of a Safety Turtle Alarm which will allow you to have an immediate alert if your child or pet enters the pool area, or if the fall into the water.

Originally introduced in 1998 as a “last layer of protection” for young children near water, the Safety Turtle personal immersion alarm has been adapted for pets, patients doing water physiotherapy, for workers near water hazards, to automatically alert lifeguard rescues, and as a “wireless lanyard” - and the pool safety gate alarm is 'wireless' and can remotely monitor pool and property gates.

A Safety Turtle Wireless Alert system consists of one or more Base Station receivers and an unlimited number of radio sensors. The sensors may be of different types, immersion, gate, panic, but must be the same color to work with the same Base Station.

Learn more at Safety Turtle. We recommend this product for all homeowners who have children or pets around a pool, pond or body of water. Enjoy the last few days of summer!



Eco Tip of Day: Earn Cash from renting your Tools & other Stuff

Do you need extra cash while your power tools are gathering dust?

Or is a musical instrument sitting in the corner unused? What about your tennis racket while you are on crutches? Or is your wheelbarrow just hogging a corner of your garage? Think about the car sharing systems, but plug in the word "stuff" sharing...and its eco-friendly because you aren't buying anything new...

RENT your stuff and earn extra cash by registering on SnapGoods.com

Product Tip of Day: Seventh Generation recyclable packaging!

Did you know that the outer packaging of the new Seventh Generation laundry can be composted or recycled? The outer shell is made from a 70% recycled fiberboard, with an interior plastic pouch made of 30% recycled product.

When you are finished using the new Seventh Generation 4x Concentrate Laundry detergent, you simply break apart the shell and use in compost, and take the plastic cap and liner for recycling!

Seventh Generation detergent is powerful even in a smaller container. Learn more!

Design Tip of Day: Floral Creations as Artistry

Recently, I worked on an HGTV shoot with an amazing floral stylist, Vanessa Baran - who has had her work featured on the cover of Elegant Bride and at events...and in many movies...she is the top-secret (yet affordable) "icing on the cake" for events and weddings in New York City, Connecticut, Florida & LA.

She has now branched into "fascinators" - typically the province of the English and these head coverings make you swoon. Perfect for the Kentucky Derby, a polo match or other occassion. Meet Vanessa Baran, Stylist

Wellness Tip of Day: Asthma & Vitamin D

For those who avoid the sunny days and then complain in the winter abut the gray...here is another reason to go outside this summer: Vitamin D. According to a recently published study in the Annals of Asthma, Allergy & Immunology,  vitamin D will ease or prevent lung inflammation.

Increase your wellness by spending 20 minutes out in the sun daily and also supplement your intake with fish, eggs, spinach and a 400 to 600 IU vitamin pill? (ask your doctor first!). Read this article about Asthma and "breathe easier"

Savings Tip of Day: Design Your Home Office on a Dime!

So many people work from home today, and the exciting thing for most is the day that they "hang their shingle". However, a few weeks/months later the paperwork begins to overwhelm and then they realize that it is time to do an effficient setup that will allow papers and storage to be organized. Here is a re-design by Robin Wilson on a dime using products from The Container Store - and done in less than 2 hours. Watch CBS before & after video

Tip of Day: Where to Buy Wooden Toys?

How many parents want to find eco-healthy wooden toys? And toys that are made in America, toys that will remind parents of their childhood memories and toys that will last as an heirloom for the next generation. Begin your search with Ron Voake, who is in Middlebury, Vermont with a team of woodworkers who suggest that you order now for the holidays...visit Vermont Wooden Toys

Savings Tip of Day: Pull the Plug on Phantom Power

Did you know that even if your cellphone charger does not have the phone attached, it is still drawing phantom power? And that televisions, computers, video recorders and electronic games still draw power even if they are turned off...just look for that little red "ready" button. Scientists have determined that 45% of the energy consumed in your home comes from phantom power - so make today the "Pull the Plug Day" or buy a Smart Strip power strip

Tip of Day: 5 ways to use Baking soda

• 

  Who knew that banking soda has so many uses - from cleaning to caring for your hair/skin - and it is often one of the least expensive items in the grocery store! Baking soda can be a great way to replace harsh cleaning chemicals as well as over-fragranced personal care products.
• Here are great ways to change your lifestyle by using baking soda in a healthy way for your everyday cleaning and non-toxic activities in your home:
• Stop the Itch-for insect bites, make a paste out of baking soda and water, and apply  to ease the itch.
• Freshen your Hair-sprinkle a small amount of baking soda into your palm along with your favorite shampoo. Shampoo as usual and rinse thoroughly–baking soda helps remove the residue that styling products leave behind.
• Sandal-ready Feet-dissolve 3 tablespoons of baking soda in a tub of warm water and soak feet. Gently scrub.
• Remove crayon marks-applybaking soda to a damp sponge and rubbing lightly. Wipe off with a clean, dry cloth.
• Deodorize Trashcan-sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of your trashcan to keep stinky trash smells at bay

Information from Care2

Tip of Day: Is "organic" cosmetic labeling really accurate?

Many of us buy cosmetics - and even if they are labeled "natural" or "organic", we have to wonder if they are really organic, or just a bit of marketing to get us to part with extra dollars? According to the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, "natural" is a completed unregulated term. However, "organic" is a legal standard that must be verified by independent third parties.

Here are a few cosmetic labels to look for:

• USDA Organic - requires third party certification and a minimum 95% certified-organic plant ingredients; 70% qualifies for "made with organic" - no synthetics are allowed
• NSF - requires products have 70% organic ingredients and limited chemical processing or additives
• BDIH - more common in European countries; stringent rules banning all petroleum based ingredients if a product is called "natural" - requires third party certification
• Whole Foods Premium Body Care - a label developed by the store certifying that products are free of 250 toxic chemicals
• Oasis - industry label in European countries requiring 95% organic; allows some synthetics
• EcoCert - less stringent third-party seal requiring 95% natural ingredients with a minimum 10% of those certified organic

Cleaning Tip of Day: Furniture Care

We see great TV commercials that advertise products that we don't need and that will only create a "chemical stew" affecting our indoor air quality...

So, here is a brief excerpt about what you should do to care for your furniture:

• Dust: wipe wood surfaces with a soft cloth and avoid most commercial cleaners and polishes since they contain formaldehyde and ammonia. Did you know?: most modern wood furniture does not need to be waxed or polished because the factory finish won't even allow wax to penetrate!
• Vacuum: upholstered furniture should be vacuumed weekly to remove dust. And sprinkle baking soda prior to vacuum if there is odor. Did you know?: fabric fresheners typically contain fragrances/solvents that trigger allergic and asthmatic reactions
• Erase & Rub: for leather, vacuum regularly, but also remove scuff marks with a pencil eraser and for water marks, rub with distilled white vinegar. Always test first in a hidden spot. If you use a chemical-based leather cleaner, use in a well-ventilated room.
• Scotchgard or Silicon? Stain protection is a tough subject when being eco-friendly. Know that Scotchgard offers the most protection, but it is not eco-friendly. A good alternative is silicon, a natural substance that repels most spills, except grease.

Cleaning Tip of Day: Mold & Mildew

What is that black spot in the corner of your shower or bath - or at the base of your shower curtain? Typically mildew, but sometimes mold...and the allergic reactions many of us have to mold spores means you have to act now!

Simple solution involves a trip to the health food store for tea tree oil and to the dollar store for a spray bottle. Mix one drop of tea tree oil (do not let the concentrated oil touch your eyes or bare skin) to one cup of water in the spray bottle. Shake. Spray directly onto the mold or mildew area. Let sit for 5-10 minutes. Rinse. Repeat if needed.

Cleaning Tip of Day: Your Kitchen Sink

Remember that your sink is typically the first line of defense in your home to prevent germs in your kitchen. And while you can have clean dishes, what about the cleanliness of the sink itself?

Each sink type has a best method for cleaning...and if you have:

• Stainless steel: use a nontoxic all-purpose cleaner or distilled white vinegar on a sponge. Never use steel wool or abrasive cleaners. Spot clean with baking soda on a damp sponge and always scrub "with the grain"
• Porcelain: use baking soda on a damp sponge and avoid abrasive cleaners. Or use a cream cleanser or non-abrasive to assist with difficult stains
• Composites/Quarts: use cream cleansers or distilled white vinegar on a sponge

Eco Tip of Day: EcoSmart, a non-toxic Pesticide

Imagine using a natural pesticide that is as strong as synthetic chemicals, but non-toxic to your children and pets! Yes, this product exists and is on the market - it's called EcoSmart. With formulations for your specific pest problem - either indoors or out...and its affordable. Poisons that affect everything are one option...but it might be healthier to target the poison to the problem pest...Try EcoSmart Non-Toxic Pesticides