Here's a smart idea for keeping bedroom curtains neatly contained: it's the no-tie-back method. A set of sheers hung directly behind each curtain provide a privacy screen when drawn. When not in use, they can be tied neatly around each curtain. A very pretty alternative to the standard tasseled tie-back, no? - Casa Sugar

Windows still firmly shut against the cold? If so, you're probably yearning for a breath of fresh air. Let Tipnut's clever bed sheet laundering ideas get you through, bringing fresh, summery-scented bedding to your room all year round. Jasmine plus bergamot? Vanilla plus ginger? Simply heavenly equations! - Tipnut

Most of us hear the word "charcoal" and we think "barbecue," right? But charcoal actually has tons of uses around the home and yard. For years I used charcoal in my aquarium filters, for example. I always wondered how something resembling lumps of dirt could actually purify my fishes' water!

Looking closer though, I observed that charcoal is a really beautiful thing. Mostly carbon, it's like the most lightweight, porous rock you've ever seen. It's that porous quality that makes charcoal so useful, enabling it to absorb moisture, odor and dirt. Activated charcoal is the most porous of all, since it's been processed for maximum surface area. Let's look at some surprising ways you can use charcoal:

In the Workshop
Keeping a chunk or two in your toolbox or tool-storage cabinet may help keep rust off metal tools.

In the Bathroom
Charcoal's a natural dehumidifier, too, helping remove excess moisture from damp areas of the home. Try it in problem damp spots, especially anywhere closets and books are stored.

A few more clever de-icing ideas: