tip: italian clamp lid jars!

seen: Jamie Oliver's storage jars, Emersonmade's famous pantry

These images aren't new (although still dreamy and inspiring), but this just in: Italian clamp lid storage jars aren't only for amazing open pantries and celebrities.  

I've searched and searched and found that Crate&Barrel outlet has Fido brand jars on clearance in a variety of sizes (from $3.95- $9.95)!  Save some for me.. 

spring clean: mattresses

seen: images from Real Simple

The most recent Real Simple issue has pages of spring cleaning shortcuts.  They promise nearly 30 strategies and products that really work and I'm going to put them to test, starting with mattresses.  It's one of those spots, that although I really love a clean house, I've missed good parts of.  Are you on that?

The shortcut clean: see here.

*I would add washing the bedskirts along with mattress covers.

The long version: see here.

*Given the price of the recommended OdorZyme ($30 with shipping on Amazon), I'm trying Bi-O-Kleen's Bac-Out Stain and Odor Eliminator for under $15.  (We currently use the Biokleen citrus laundry powder, so I'm hoping the spray works and smells just as well.)

Just an extra step or two to put that spring cleaning fever to rest.  

wise tip: stamp it!

seen: stamping artwork

I came across this over the weekend and literally thought the exact same thing as this blogger: "why why why have I not done this yet?!"  And then "why why why did I not keep all my old Cookie issues?!"  Moving on, isn't this so smart!  We already have stacks of artwork, and although I hang some and file the rest, I'm missing the dates.  Luckily there is an easy fix.  

discounted Vers wooden covers.

Every morning, I know to expect my inbox full of designer discount emails.  You too?  They take a consistent filter, but I love a good deal, so of course I put in my time and then occasionally score.  I've been watching Design Story's Vers wood iphone/ipad covers for a week now, and finally took the $15 plunge before the sale ended (today!).  And now I'm so excited for the happy mail that will show up soon.  (I didn't want you to miss out.)  Aren't they pretty!

tip: deal on outerwear.

seen: reversible skate jacket, now $47.60

Did you know that Mini Boden is currently having a 30% off outerwear sale?  It's true.  We actually missed it (ordered a bit too early) but this coat came for Cole yesterday and we completely scored.  It's made for these California winters- not bulky, warm, soft, reversible, with a hood! and many pockets!  We went a size up (size 5-6 for a normal sized 4 1/2 year old) and it's perfect with a rolled sleeve- leaving enough room for layers.  (I actually prefer wearing the army green (not shown) on the outside.)  

This is how I like to do my shopping.  

weekend tip:

Do you remember that I love Plover Organic?  It's my style translated into cloth napkins, (etc.) and that makes me happy.  Today, my futile search (since Thanksgiving) for a great tablecloth and napkin set with a reasonable price is over.  I'm so glad I held out..

Tip: One Kings Lane is selling Plover Organic tablecloths, napkins and tea towels for about 60% off!  Today only, until they're gone.  Now, for those special days, my tabletop will be dressed in confetti.

*****
note: one kings lane is a (free) member-only home decor site with daily deals that last only until they're sold.  Leave your email and I'm happy to send you an invite.  [Or you can choose to sign up on your own here.]  Thanks for listing me (spillopen at gmail.com) as your referral.