This Origami Kitchen Tray is the Perfect Example of How Great Design Lies in Simple Details

Most household items we own today are made one of two or three ways. If they’re made from plastic, chances are they’re injection molded… and if they’re metal, they’re either cast or they’re rolled/stamped into a distinct form. These methods end up defining what a product will look like. An injection-molded plastic part will never look as intricate as a 3D-printed mesh part… and a stamped metal utensil will never have the elegance of something like the Snapsys tray set. Designed using a series of strategic Origami-style bends, the Snapsys set of trays and table platforms are deceptively simple to look at, but are engineered and manufactured to perfection. Each item is made from a single 0.8mm sheet of metal that’s been creased, bent, and then anodized. The result is a set of kitchenware that’s incredibly slim, yet just as strong, thanks to the nature of the folds that help provide rigidity.

Designers: Sang Hyuk Han & Eunju Jang

Click Here to Buy Now: $149 $160 ($11 off). Hurry, offer ends soon!

The Snapsys set of trays and table are ‘Origami-style folding plate’ that have a thickness of 0.8mm (about as much as a credit card).

The Snapsys set comes in three tray styles that double as decorative tabletop platforms for displaying your food. Most trays look terribly run-of-the-mill, but given the Snapsys set’s unique manufacturing technique, this tray collection has no such problem. The trays look defyingly thin, to the point of feeling fragile. They do measure just 0.8mm (about as much as a credit card), but are surprisingly strong thanks to the folding structures that give them the ability to carry well beyond their weight without bending or flexing.

Use as a service tray.

A decorative incense stick tray!

Candle Holder!

The secret lies in the origami-style folds that help strengthen the trays while giving them their rather memorable designs. The fold lines aren’t regular, but instead follow a curve, allowing the metal sheet to bend in a curved way too. This helps strengthen the metal, making it rigid instead of flimsy. You can try the same technique with paper, observing how curved folds help give paper additional stiffness too.

Some trays look conventional, with handles on either side. Others come with legs, elevating your food by an inch or two to help your dishes stand out against a laid-out table. All trays come with anodized color options, allowing you to add a splash of vibrance to your tabletop decor as well as allowing the trays themselves to serve as accent pieces. The anodized finish also makes them durable and corrosion-resistant, increasing their overall lifespan. The tray sets, which come in black, yellow, blue, or a nude silver, start at a discounted $149, which includes three trays – 1 rectangular tray, 1 oval tray, and 1 half-plate tray.

Click Here to Buy Now: $149 $160 ($11 off). Hurry, offer ends soon!

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What Is A Wellness Kitchen? Top 10 Trends For A Healthier Lifestyle

The kitchen serves as the heart of the home, and it plays a key role in determining a healthy lifestyle. In such a context, a wellness kitchen strives to deepen our bond with nature by integrating cutting-edge technology to improve both efficiency and comfort. With a focus on revamping food storage, preparation, cooking, consumption, and disposal for fresh, organic ingredients, an ideal Wellness Kitchen integrates elegant designs that inspire social interactions and eco-friendly lifestyles that nurture the mind, body, and soul. Check out the top 10 trends in wellness kitchens

Designer: MAGPIE

1. Healthy Eating

In wellness-focused kitchens, gardens are vital, enabling you to grow nutritious produce and promote healthy eating while reducing reliance on stores. Integrating them brings joy and tranquillity, whether through simple planters or innovative hydroponic setups like ‘refrigerator’ gardens. Hydroponic systems offer indoor vegetable cultivation, needing consistent light typically from grow lights, best suited for separate spaces like a pantry to avoid disrupting evening routines.

Designer: Igor Abakumov

Introducing Home Garden, a sleek herb drawer designed by Igor Abakumov. This innovative solution seamlessly integrates into your kitchen, providing access to fresh herbs year-round without sacrificing counter space. Equipped with a smart system, Home Garden monitors plant moisture, temperature, freshness, and readiness for use, all adjustable via smartphone. Its compact design makes it perfect for any kitchen, catering to both urban apartments and spacious suburban homes. With Home Garden, enjoy the convenience of having your favorite herbs at your fingertips while adding a touch of greenery to your culinary space.

2. Encourages Interaction

Image courtesy of: BGStock72

A vital aspect of a wellness kitchen is its capacity to nurture social connections. A key design trend involves crafting spaces that encourage collaboration and interaction. One effective method is designing a generous kitchen island with space for food preparation, allowing multiple people to engage in cooking, alongside areas for standing and conversing, as well as seating for comfortable interaction, including defining a clear boundary between the kitchen and living area.

3. Good Ventilation

Image courtesy of: Kattecat

The wellness kitchen should incorporate air purification systems, including kitchen chimneys and exhaust fans, to reduce toxins, minimize pollutants, and ensure clean indoor air quality. Adhering to VOC limits for interior paints, coatings, adhesives, sealants, insulation, and flooring is also essential. The kitchen should also feature windows to facilitate natural ventilation and improve indoor air quality by replacing stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air.

4. Natural Light

Enhancing natural light by enlarging windows and adding skylights brings proven health benefits such as increased productivity, improved moods, and energy conservation. LED lighting, with its longevity and energy efficiency, further complements natural light, while also potentially alleviating seasonal affective disorder. A well-designed lighting scheme should include ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a layered effect, promoting overall well-being in the wellness kitchen.

Designer: Nat Martin and Sean Hammett

The Sunday Light, conceived by designers Nat Martin and Sean Hammett, is a groundbreaking overhead LED fixture designed to bring the mood-boosting effects of daylight to any space, particularly in dreary English winters. Suspended beneath a reflective panel, it diffuses light akin to Earth’s atmosphere, promising to infuse rooms with the invigorating sensation of a sunny day. Serving as a remedy for seasonal affective disorder, it delivers 30,000 lumens of warm, comforting light, boasting a CRI value of 93 for a natural and pleasant ambiance. Its intense yet gentle illumination experience uplifts mood, energy, and alertness.

5. Use of Natural Materials

Image courtesy of: Mint_Images

As people seek a deeper connection to nature for greater happiness and tranquillity, natural materials are gaining popularity in kitchen design, with stone and wood being prime examples. Combining these natural elements with modern ones seamlessly integrates both aesthetics, capturing the essence of each.

Designer: Sebastian Cox with Ninela Ivanova

Sebastian Cox’s Mycelium pendant lamps are grown, not made, utilizing mycelium—a sustainable, vegan alternative to suede and leather. Teamed with researcher Ninela Ivanova, the “Mycelium + Timber” project explores mycelium’s potential in commercial furniture design. Each lamp undergoes a 4–12-week growth process, where mycelium fibers bind with willow wood inside molds filled with cultivated fungus, resulting in a unique, compostable composite material.

6. Introduce Pocket Doors

Designer: Accuride

To maintain cleanliness and organization, it’s advisable for a wellness kitchen to minimize open shelving. Yet, for those who favor the appearance of ample open shelves, pocket doors offer an excellent solution. These doors enable convenient access to stored items during meal preparation and can be closed to keep shelves free from dust when not in use.

7. Display & Storage

Designer: True Manufacturin

In a Wellness Kitchen, fresh produce is showcased through glass refrigerator doors or grown in a kitchen garden, promoting accessibility. To meet consumer needs, refrigeration options in the ideal Wellness Kitchen offer varied temperatures and humidities for organized and visually appealing storage, featuring glass doors, multiple compartments, and concealed compressors to minimize noise pollution.

8. Biophilia

Biophilia, rooted in Greek for “life” and “love,” embodies the human urge to connect with nature, essential in wellness kitchen design. This strategy integrates natural elements like plant walls, greenery, nature-inspired crockery, skylights, and large windows to foster physical and psychological well-being, reduce stress, and boost creativity.

Designer: BTS Design

Ensure that conversation never runs dry with these shark wine glasses, which seamlessly infuse a biophilic vibe into your gatherings. Inspired by nature’s elegance, these glasses not only serve as functional vessels but also spark intriguing discussions about the natural world. Crafted to evoke the graceful movement of sharks, they bring a touch of the ocean’s beauty to your table setting. With their sleek design and captivating aesthetic, these glasses are sure to captivate guests and elevate the ambiance of any occasion.

9. Inclusive Design

Image courtesy of: sofiiashunkina

Enhancing wellness involves considering homeowners’ ages, heights, and abilities during the planning process, including features like non-skid floors, a raised dishwasher for comfortable access to top and bottom racks, various seating heights at the island to accommodate all family members, and deep drawers organized for easy access. Additionally, ensuring enough space for wheelchair maneuverability and adapting countertop heights for cooking or food preparation contributes to a more inclusive and accessible kitchen design.

10. Compost

Effectively managing food waste in an eco-conscious manner is a significant concern for individuals striving for sustainability, as placing food waste in the garbage leads to unpleasant odors, attracts pests, and necessitates more frequent collection. Composting emerges as a wellness kitchen trend, with innovative compost bins efficiently managing food scraps, effectively eradicating kitchen odors and fruit flies. With benefits like reducing landfill waste and promoting garden growth, composting seamlessly integrates into the ethos of a wellness kitchen design.

Designer: Byeonkyu Park

The rise in food delivery services has significantly impacted our eating habits, often leading to unhealthy lifestyles and increased waste. While some services offer healthier options and sustainable packaging, they often fall short in reducing overall waste. Enter Toggle, a composting device designed to transform uneaten food and its packaging into nourishment for plants. This innovative solution allows you to process leftover meals and materials like paper and wood at home, reducing waste volume and producing homemade fertilizer. Toggle’s discreet design resembles a stylish can, featuring safety measures and user-friendly interfaces. It encourages a more responsible lifestyle, ensuring both your plants and the planet benefit from your choices.

The post What Is A Wellness Kitchen? Top 10 Trends For A Healthier Lifestyle first appeared on Yanko Design.

Hear me out – A Coffee Machine shaped like a Coffee Bean is kind of a brilliant idea

You are what you eat, they say… surely the Bean Coffee Machine eats a whole lot of coffee beans, am I right?! A clever visual redesign of the standard coffee machine, this particular appliance by Juliana Juleva tries to make the ubiquitous coffee-brewer instantly recognizable. The way she does it is by making the machine look like a giant bean from afar. Look at it and even if you’re not a coffee drinker, chances are you’ll recognize exactly what it is and what it’s used for. The intuitive design is further complemented by an intuitive user interface, which employs a simple yet large touchscreen to help you brew the perfect cup of coffee ever. Place your empty mug, tap a button, and wait for the giant bean to give you a cup of pure bliss!

Designer: Juliana Juleva

The Bean Coffee Machine doesn’t try to be too fancy. It doesn’t look overtly industrial, or too high-tech like something Apple would have designed. Instead, it tries to opt for visual familiarity by taking inspiration from the shape of a coffee bean. The machine comes with an oval shape, sporting broad and gentle curves that make it look as smooth as a roasted coffee bean. It’s propped up vertically on four legs, and comes with a relatively simple front surface that has the interface on top, and a dispenser at the bottom.

Using the Bean machine is incredibly intuitive too. A transparent window on top lets you look into the machine’s coffee storage, letting you know if it has enough supply of roasted beans. If not, all you do is load fresh beans in, and you’re ready to brew. Right underneath the window is an interface that has the simplicity of a menu card. Tap the kind of coffee you want Bean to brew and it gets to work. The coffee gets dispensed right into your cup below, letting you choose from multiple options from the classic flat white or americano, to even more eclectic options like a decaf.

The Bean comes in 5 colors – black, white, bronze, silver, and our favorite, metallic brown. Sure, everyone’s entitled to having a coffee machine that complements their tastes and interior decor, but the metallic brown Bean just plays to the visual metaphor perfectly, and it kind of does look like an instant classic too, if you ask me personally. The machine was designed for a Russian coffee brand, although it hasn’t hit the market yet.

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10 Most Popular Kitchen Flooring Materials: Their Pros and Cons

The primary purpose of kitchen flooring is to offer a flat, comfortable surface for walking and standing for extended periods, facilitating easy movement around the space. It’s crucial to choose durable materials that can withstand daily wear and tear, considering that kitchens often require frequent cleaning due to food spills. Here are the top flooring materials suitable for kitchens, emphasizing resistance to heat, moisture, staining, and impact damage to ensure longevity.

Designer: Konga

1. Ceramic Tile

Image courtesy of: dit26978

Pros:
Ceramic tile is crafted from clay and natural ingredients, shaped, glazed, and fired at high temperatures. Resistant to water and stains, it’s an ideal choice for kitchen flooring, also withstanding heat and breakage. While it can last indefinitely under optimal conditions, it may develop cracks and chipping if the top layer wears off. Ceramic tiles are resistant to water and heat.

Cons:
Ceramic tile, while exceptionally hard, may be uncomfortable to stand on for extended periods. Improper installation can lead to cracking and chipping, resulting in the top layer peeling off.

2. Porcelain tile

Designer: Horizon Italian Tile

Pros:
Porcelain tiles, made from baked natural clay at high temperatures and pressure, are exceptionally strong, durable, and long-lasting. Their non-porous surface makes them resistant to stains and scratches. Available in a variety of colors, textures, and patterns, including designs resembling natural stone and wood, they are easy to maintain.

Cons:
The biggest disadvantage of porcelain tiles is that they possess a dense and hard composition, resulting in considerable weight.

3. Concrete Flooring

Image courtesy of: Mint_Images

Pros:
Concrete floors are a highly cost-effective flooring option for industrial-themed kitchens. One of the best aspects of concrete is that it is versatile and can be stained, polished, or can be treated creatively into stylish works of art. Concrete floors are particularly suitable for modern kitchens. Concrete floors are resistant to impact and heat.

Cons:
Due to its porous nature, concrete requires periodic sealing to safeguard against staining and water damage. Additionally, it can feel hard and cold underfoot. Moreover, while concrete offers an urban or industrial aesthetic, its appearance may not be unique.

4. Natural Stone

Image courtesy of: pro_creator

Pros:
Natural stone is a popular choice for durable kitchen flooring, offering various options with distinct properties. Granite is sturdy and versatile, suitable for both tiles and countertops. Limestone adds aesthetic appeal but is softer and better suited for accents. Marble is elegant but prone to scratching and staining. Sandstone offers a soft, multicolored look ideal for kitchens. Slate is durable and sophisticated, lasting for decades with proper maintenance while travertine provides Old World style, though it’s less durable than other options. Overall, natural stone enhances the kitchen’s appearance while ensuring long-lasting functionality. Also, its natural vein patterns provide a unique look, and no two tiles or slabs look alike.

Cons:
Stone installation is time-consuming, involving cutting and handling heavy materials. Its main drawback is its porous nature, making it susceptible to water and liquid stains, particularly in the kitchen. Applying a quality penetrating stone sealer annually can provide invisible protection, but reapplication is necessary at regular intervals.

5. Vitrified Tiles

Image courtesy of: dit26978

Pros:
Vitrified tiles are highly favored as a flooring choice for kitchens due to their numerous advantages. These tiles are renowned for their exceptional hardness, density, and strength, making them resistant to stains, scratches, and acids, which are common in kitchen environments. Available in a diverse array of colors, designs, and sizes, including glazed, full-body, and double-charged varieties, vitrified tiles offer versatility to suit different aesthetic preferences. Moreover, their ability to withstand heavy foot traffic ensures long-lasting durability, making them an ideal option for busy kitchen spaces.

Cons:
The biggest disadvantage is that vitrified tiles can become slippery when wet.

6. Bamboo Flooring

Image courtesy of: bialasiewicz

Pros:
A recent innovation is bamboo flooring which is becoming increasingly popular for kitchens due to its durability and enhanced moisture resistance from the manufacturing process. It offers the look of hardwood with greater durability. There are three types: strand woven, engineered, and solid bamboo, each offering varying levels of durability and cost.

Cons:
The drawback is that this flooring type can vary in appearance based on color, grain, and pattern. Solid bamboo may not be suitable for kitchens with moisture present.

7. Cork Flooring

Image courtesy of: traimakivan

Pros:
Cork flooring seeks to improve the comfort of the user with a soft construction that reduces fatigue and strain from walking and standing during food preparation. This material has a unique appearance that can add to the home’s aesthetic, and it is made from sustainable materials, harvested from the bark of cork oak trees.

Cons:
Cork offers a warm and soft underfoot experience, but it’s less durable than most flooring options and susceptible to scratches and moisture. To prevent staining and water damage, sealing the flooring every one to two years is recommended.

8. Laminate Flooring

Image courtesy of: pro_creator

Pros:
Laminate wood flooring presents an affordable option for flooring, offering a cost-effective means to elevate the aesthetic of a kitchen compared to hardwood. Its superior scratch resistance against regular foot traffic makes it an attractive choice. Additionally, laminate serves as a practical alternative to hardwood floors and is available in a variety of styles and finishes.

Cons:
Laminate flooring isn’t as well-suited for handling moisture, which can make maintenance more challenging when used in kitchens. If you choose to install laminate in this space, it’s essential to employ a proper moisture barrier. Additionally, laminate doesn’t offer the same longevity as hardwood, tile, and vinyl flooring options.

9. Vinyl Flooring

Image courtesy of: studio

Pros:
Vinyl flooring offers numerous benefits specifically tailored for kitchen environments. Its durability, with a lifespan ranging from 10 to 20 years, can be further extended through proper maintenance and careful use. With its water-resistant and anti-slip features, vinyl flooring is an ideal option for moisture-prone spaces like kitchens, offering easy maintenance and effective stain resistance. The softness underfoot, thanks to its foam or felt backing layer, ensures comfort during prolonged periods of standing while reducing fatigue. Moreover, vinyl flooring comes in a wide range of colors and designs, providing options that mimic the appearance of natural materials like stone and wood.

Cons:
Vinyl flooring emits high levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and may have a noticeable odor upon installation. Additionally, it is not resistant to strong chemicals, which can cause permanent discoloration and damage. Outdoor use is not recommended as prolonged sunlight exposure can lead to fading. Furthermore, an uneven subfloor can result in lumps and damage over time, while sharp objects can cause cuts and dents that are challenging to repair.

10. Hardwood Flooring

Image courtesy of: studio

Pros:
Hardwood flooring is known for its durability as it offers good longevity with proper care and maintenance. With a diverse array of styles available, it can suit any decor. It is easy to maintain as it requires only regular sweeping and vacuuming, although it’s essential to avoid wet-mopping and promptly clean up spills to prevent damage.

Cons:
While engineered hardwood is typically more affordable, solid hardwood remains costly. Both types are susceptible to moisture damage, with solid hardwood being especially vulnerable. Moreover, hardwood floors are susceptible to scratches, dents, and photosensitivity, prompting the need for more durable species or alternative materials like laminate or vinyl, especially in sunlit rooms.

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Top 25 Dirty Spots In Your Home You Might Be Forgetting To Clean

Cleaning and refreshing your home is commendable, but despite your diligent efforts, there are undoubtedly areas you’re overlooking in your cleaning routine. Note that cleaning can often feel unappreciated and result in overlooked areas, which harbor plenty of germs and can become a health hazard in the long run. Here are 25 commonly missed spots that are crucial to maintaining a sparkling clean home.

Image courtesy of: MyLove4Art

1. Top of Window Frame

While you might remember to clean the baseboards during your cleaning session, it’s easy to overlook the higher spots, like the tops of window frames. Grab a step ladder and wipe away the accumulated dust from the top of the window frame.

2. Sides of TV Screen

Image courtesy of: macniak

While you may recall to clean the screen itself, don’t overlook the sides of the TV screen, as these areas tend to gather the most dust.

3. Door Knobs and Handles

Image courtesy of: andriymedvediuk

With just a few minutes, a quick swipe of doors and handles using a quality cleaning product will make them shine and enhance the sparkling cleanliness of your home.

4. Light Fixtures and Lamps

Image courtesy of: Angelov1

Over time, dust can accumulate on ceiling-mounted light fixtures, fans, and table lamps, leading to a lackluster look and hindering light transmission through the glass surfaces. Regularly cleaning these fixtures with a soft microfiber cloth is crucial.

5. Kids Toys

Image courtesy of: Nadtochii

Young toddlers are often unaware of the world around them and tend to explore by putting everything in their mouths. Therefore, it’s crucial to regularly clean their toys. Place hard plastic toys in warm, soapy water, while soft toys can go in the washing machine. Delicate stuffed toys should be hand-washed.

6. Light Switches

Image courtesy of: towfiqu98

Despite our frequent use of light switches throughout the day, they are often overlooked when it comes to cleaning. These high-touch areas can accumulate germs and filth if not properly maintained. It’s essential to clean them periodically, ideally every few days. Avoid using a soaking wet towel for wiping switches and go for a clean wipe or a slightly damp cloth.

7. Cleaning the Inside of Closet

Image courtesy of: katchanatsarin

Even if you frequently declutter and organize your clothes, you may overlook cleaning the inside of your closet. Remember to wipe down the bar, the top of the hangers, and any shoe organizers with a damp cloth.

8. Ceiling Molding

Image courtesy of: photovs

When cleaning the home, it’s crucial to remember to look up as well. While you may frequently clean the baseboard moldings, the ceiling moldings often go unnoticed for ages. Grab a ladder, ensure someone holds it securely, and then clean the ceiling moldings.

9. Under the Bed

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It is important to vacuum beneath the bed due to the accumulation of dust, particularly if you utilize the space for storage. Remove all items and thoroughly vacuum, followed by mopping if your flooring consists of floorboards or tiles.

10. Mattress

Image courtesy of: borodai

Even though you might be washing your bed linen regularly, it’s common to neglect cleaning the mattress. It’s recommended to vacuum the mattress using an upholstery attachment. For stains, employ a damp cloth soaked in a soapy solution, then follow up with another cloth once the stain has diminished. Avoid using this method on latex or memory foam mattresses and instead refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning tips. Open the windows to let in sunlight for drying. To freshen the mattress, sprinkle baking soda on the surface and let it sit for an hour or two before a thorough vacuuming.

11. TV Remote

Image courtesy of: towfiqu98

We often overlook the TV remote during household cleaning, despite its daily use. The main downside of a dirty remote is that germs can be transferred to other items in the home that we frequently touch. Utilize multipurpose antibacterial wipes for convenient and swift cleaning tasks like this.

12. Inside the Couch

Image courtesy of: yavdat

The sides and interiors of the sofa are prime areas for crumbs, debris, and pet hair. Therefore, it’s important to vacuum your couch thoroughly at least once a month to instantly revitalize your living room.

13. Toothbrush Holder

Image courtesy of: tan4ikk

The toothbrush holder may have gone without cleaning for some time, so rinse, scrub, and repeat until the grime disappears. Consider running it through the dishwasher to eradicate any bacteria for more effective results.

14. Top of the Refrigerator

Image courtesy of: Angelov1

The top of the fridge tends to gather a layer of kitchen grease and dust. Utilize a soft, damp cloth with detergent to wipe the surface clean.

15. Bathroom Shelves

Image courtesy of: LightFieldStudios

Bathroom shelves often get overlooked, especially when shampoo, lotions, and soaps leak onto them in the medicine cabinet or beneath the sink. It’s essential to remove all products first, then wipe the shelves clean before putting items back in place.

16. Picture Frames

Image courtesy of: katchanatsarin

Regularly clean the glass fronts of picture frames and dust off the frames. Avoid spraying directly onto the frames to prevent liquid from potentially damaging the photo or artwork. It’s advisable to use a barely dampened glass-cleaning cloth.Top of Form

17. Area Under the Rug

Image courtesy of: YuriArcursPeopleimages

Move the furniture, roll up the rug and its pad, and vacuum underneath to reveal what’s hidden and possibly inspire more frequent cleaning.

18. Inside Kitchen Drawers

Image courtesy of: TDyuvbanova

Food crumbs can sneak into kitchen drawers, so it’s important to give them a good clean. Take everything out, wipe the drawers clean, and then put everything back.

19. Bookshelves

Image courtesy of: studio

Dust shelves one section at a time, removing objects, cleaning, and then returning them while decluttering books and decor along the way.

20. Clean the Window Tracks

While it’s common to clean windows for a clear view, don’t overlook the window tracks and sills. Open the window and thoroughly clean the track and the area where the window meets the frame, using a soft bristle brush to remove debris like pine needles, dust, and bugs. Clearing out the hardware improves window operation and longevity, and for added cleanliness, consider using soap and water for extra cleaning.

21. Shower Curtain

Image courtesy of: wirestock

Tackle the issue of dirty shower curtains that gather mildew, dirt, or soap scum by cleaning them in your washing machine. Include your curtains and liners along with towels, detergent, and a cup of baking soda to refresh them and remove stains effectively.

22. Trash Can

Just removing trash isn’t enough; leftover food or used products can cause bad odors. Regularly scrub and rinse your trash can, and use disinfectant to keep it clean and odor-free.

23. Baseboard

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One spot that inevitably gathers dust is the baseboard, constantly in contact with shoes, furniture, and airborne particles. Regularly wiping them down can significantly contribute to a cleaner home.

24. Throw Pillow

Image courtesy of: DragonImages

While we often remember to clean our throw blankets by putting them in the washing machine, we tend to forget about cleaning our throw pillows, which depending on their material, can be washed in the machine or wiped down with a damp or dry cloth.

25. Fan blades

Image courtesy of: ellinnur

The fan blades, often overlooked, can harbor significant dust buildup, potentially exacerbating allergies if not cleaned regularly, making it important to prioritize their cleaning to maintain air quality.

It’s beneficial to include these areas in your cleaning routine, and if it becomes overwhelming to do everything at once, it’s advisable to choose one or two to tackle each time, making it more manageable.

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Water filtering pitcher concept wants you to slow down while pouring a drink

When you’re thirsty or you need to drink water, you just go to your ref, bring out the pitcher, or open a water bottle and just drink. You don’t really think about things like slowing down, mindfulness, staying healthy, or resting. You just need to quench your thirst or count the glasses of water that you drink. But actually if you think about it, drinking water can definitely be connected to all of that and can be your chance to take a break from your normal routine and take a few, deep breaths while drinking.

Designers: Krishna Pranav Vaddiparthi & Ria Shah

Osoi is a concept for a water filtering pitcher for Japanese tableware and lifestyle brand Kinto. The name of the product is the Japanese word for “slow” and its goal, aside from getting you to drink clean, filtered water, is to slow down while nourishing your body. The brand is the perfect inspiration as they are an advocate of using their products to “connect to life” or just taking a break from your work or studies even as you do something mundane.

The design of the pitcher itself uses several elements that represent what it means to slow down on a functional and aesthetic level. The pastel peach gradient represents joy but is also part of the water filtering process. Meanwhile, the spout, representing the water flow, lets you pour the water ever so slowly so you’re forced to slow down and have a sense of calm. The wooden handle is supposed to “celebrate the finer details” while the few wooden parts of the pitcher gives you a more tactile experience.

The Osoi pitcher render shows three different color hues: Blissful Blue, Gray Gardens, and Patient Peach. It’s a pretty interesting ideology to put on a mere pitcher but we all need to stop and smell the roses, or at least drink the water, every once in a while.

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This portable dish rack can collapse down to 1.2 inches in just a second

It’s easy to take for granted how much space things take up in the kitchen until you find yourself suddenly running out of places to put stuff. Some kitchen appliances and furniture might be non-negotiable, but other tools and fixtures could probably do a bit of rethinking. Some of them might be redundant, while others don’t even have to be out of the closet all of the time, especially when they’re not in use. A dish or draining rack, for example, doesn’t serve a purpose once all the tableware has been stored away, but most of them still take up precious space anyway. Not to mention, you can’t easily bring a dish rack with you when you go camping because of their very fixed forms. This rather novel rack, however, fixes all those problems by implementing a collapsible design that will let you easily put the draining rack away once its job is done.

Designers: Sugata Mono Studio for Ishikawa

Click Here to Buy Now: $68 $75 (10% off at checkout). Hurry, Easter sales end in 48 hours.

Truth be told, there aren’t a lot of things in the kitchen that can be put away after use aside from tableware, utensils, and cookware. That’s why there’s always a need to optimize the space being occupied by tools and equipment, which requires a bit of creative thinking and design. You won’t always be drying wet plates and pots, for example, so having a permanent draining rack might not be the greatest idea for some kitchens. In theory, it’s something that you should be able to take out and put away as needed, just like other tools, but the convention just so happened to use rigid designs made of plastic, metal, or wood.

This collapsible draining rack throws that convention out the window to save you space in the kitchen and make it more convenient to have meals outdoors. It uses a patent-pending spring system that gives the rack an accordion-like design, allowing you to expand it to a full 14″ (36cm) length or shrink it down to just 1.2″ (3cm). The best part is that the mechanism is so easy and smooth that you can do that in just a second.

It’s a simple design change, but one that has massive implications. You don’t have to reserve space in your kitchen for a draining rack and can use any flat surface as an ad hoc area. Once you’re done, simply collapse the rack and then shove it in a drawer. It also means it’s easy to transport so you can have the same experience while camping outdoors. The rack is so light and slim that you can actually carry it in your pocket. You don’t even need a flat surface since the rack’s design lets it conform to curved or uneven objects like tree trunks and boulders.

Despite that form-changing design, this collapsible draining rack is still made for durability and reliability, with SUS304 stainless steel parts that are resistant to rust and scratches. The shape that each wire rod takes is intentionally simple to reduce the chances of dirt accumulating in hidden nooks and crannies. And if you’re not that confident in your manual washing skills, the collapsed rack can just as easily be cleaned inside a dishwasher. Whether you’re drying plates or pots indoors or outdoors, this accordion-like collapsible draining rack delivers a simple yet effective tool that gets out of the way once its job is done.

Click Here to Buy Now: $68 $75 (10% off at checkout). Hurry, Easter sales end in 48 hours.

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10 Best Outdoor Kitchen Appliances For Seamless Cooking On Your Camping Trips This Spring

Spring is here, and it really is the perfect time for camping! And, I truly love camping trips. Relaxing amid nature, in a sweet bubble of my own, away from the hectic city life – sounds like heaven to me! However, one thing that always worries me before any camping getaway is the meals! I’m a food lover through and through, and having warm and freshly prepared (and tasty) meals at all times is a must for me. A good meal isn’t always guaranteed though when you’re getting down and dirty in the outdoors, but we can always try our best! Hence, we’ve curated a collection of portable and functional kitchen appliances that will help you prepare delicious meals even when you’re surrounded by nothing but the wilderness

1. All-in-One Grill

Dubbed the All-in-One Grill, this is the perfect grill for your outdoor camping adventures! It is designed to facilitate all kinds of cooking – from frying to smoking, stewing, grilling, or simply keeping some wine warm. It doesn’t occupy too much space and does an excellent job in a tiny amount of space, and different environments.

Click Here to Buy Now: $449

Why is it noteworthy?

This innovative grill is designed by a small family-owned factory, and it smartly maximizes the limited amount of space available. It features a wooden base, which protects the table or surface from the grill’s hot bottom, while also doubling up as a lid when the griller needs to be kept away.

What we like

  • Facilitates seven different ways of cooking
  • Simplifies the cumbersome task of outdoor cooking

What we dislike

  • The simple portable design may not be preferred by hardcore grillers

2. 8-in-1 EDC Scissors

This 8-in-1 EDC Scissor is the ultimate sidekick for your indoor and outdoor culinary adventures! You can simply pull the scissors apart to form a set of knives. The scissors also feature a nutcracker, can opener, built-in bottle opener, and fire starter, forming a handy and nifty package.

Click Here to Buy Now: $59

Why is it noteworthy?

The scissor is an innovative design amped with two knives, as well as a large variety of multitools for whenever you need them. Once you put the scissors back together, they can cut through cured meats, and the serrated mid-section can be utilized to crack walnuts as well!

What we like

  • Excellent for both the kitchen and outdoor cooking sessions
  • Smart practical tool equipped with loads of cool features

What we dislike

  • It isn’t the kind of scissor you can simply carry in your pocket

3. Ember

Dubbed Ember, this conceptual portable oven has a monolithic design with a sleek build that can be utilized on the stove’s flame without any electricity. It is a space-saving kitchen appliance that isn’t only a great fit for your kitchen but for your camping adventures as well.

Why is it noteworthy?

It is a clever solution designed to facilitate baking in smaller kitchens or outdoor spaces. It can bake healthy food in small spaces faster as compared to conventional methods. It is quite easy to use as well, simply place it on the stove, fill the container, and close the glass lid!

What we like

  • Well-suited for outdoor spaces and small kitchens

What we dislike

  • It is a conceptual design, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

4. Compact Modular Grill Plate

Meet the Compact Modular Grill Plate! It is designed to prepare perfectly cooked steak or food for you with the help of heat conduction, place thickness, and heat uniformity. The looks of the product can be deceiving, but once you literally get inside the plate you can understand how the real magic of it works.

Click Here to Buy Now: $89

Why is it noteworthy?

It uses a three-layer architecture with two steel layers covering aluminum. The lower Stainless Steel SUS439 allows the grill to be used on an induction stove, while the upper Stainless Steel SUS304 has some excellent corrosion resistance, forming a portable appliance that is durable and handy.

What we like

  • Lightweight and compact design to save up on space and efforts
  • Crafted by experts from Tsubamesanjo in Japan

What we dislike

  • Can’t accommodate large portions

5. Sustainable Cutlery Set

Dubbed the Sustainable Cutlery Set, this guilt-free and sustainable cutlery set is made using Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymers or GFRP. The cutlery is light and durable and presented in recyclable and reusable packaging. It can last a long time, so you don’t need to worry about the longevity of the set.

Click Here to Buy Now: $49.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The cutlery set has plenty of mechanical strength, so the fork and knife won’t break if you’re slicing through a well-done steak. The different elements of the set can be split in half, which makes them portable and easy to carry around. The various parents can be screwed and unscrewed.

What we like

  • Sustainable but also designed to last
  • Portable design that you can carry around with you for ease

What we dislike

  • The handles are delicate and may be too thin for large hands, making them difficult to use

6. Playful Palm Grater

This charming little product is called the Playful Palm Grater, and it can add some functional fun to your kitchen space, or even when you’re out camping! The tiny product will grate fresh garnishes directly onto your food on the dining table, adding a refined touch to your meals even when you’re not home.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The playful product curls up like a piece of paper and is made from a single piece of aluminum alloy plate. It is available in a bunch of fun colors, so you can pick the one that perfectly complements your taste.

What we like

  • Unique and clean form with a firm grip
  • Transforms grating into a smooth and fun activity

What we dislike

  • Although the grater’s size is fun and small, it limits it from grating larger amounts of food

7. Portable Fire Pit Stand

Meet the Portable Fire Pit Stand – a unique fire pit stand with a puzzle-like assembly, that makes it truly stand apart from traditional fire pits. This portable fire pit doesn’t only provide warmth, but it also functions as a cooking station on your camping trips or winter gatherings in your backyard.

Click Here to Buy Now: $119

Why is it noteworthy?

The Portable Fire Pit Stand is made from special sheet metal technology, and it prevents any kind of warping or distortion from heat, which offers safety and ensures longevity. The stand’s compact size and easy assembly style make it great for outdoor settings, including camping trips.

What we like

  • Features a unique puzzle-like design that facilitates quick setup
  • Industrial look with sleek aesthetics

What we dislike

  • Not the best for cooking up meals for large groups as it has a compact size

8. Shelf

Named Shelf, this grill features the design language of DHL and was created by PDF Haus. It features a simple box silhouette with a freewheeling attitude, and perfectly captures the color scheme, finishes, and materials as seen in DHL’s brand aesthetic and vehicles. It even features DHL decals and tags!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Shelf is shaped like a slim briefcase, and you can easily carry it with you. It features two metal clasps that can be opened and slid out to showcase the Shelf’s grill and supplementary table space. It includes two retractable shelves which create more space to place spices, utensils, and tools.

What we like

  • Features a unique briefcase form
  • Innovative DHL-inspired aesthetics

What we dislike

  • Propane gas containers are inserted into the grill’s underside giving it more weight

9. Campo

Named Campo, this outdoor kitchen appliance is inspired by the curves of an Apple Watch and a portable EV battery. The appliance is made using nature-friendly colors. It features a helmet-like design, with a visor that can be rolled up with a handle. It has a magnetically fastened plate, on which you can keep the item you want to cook, and set a timer.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Campo microwave oven is equipped with a rechargeable battery that facilitates heating and cooking without requiring continuous juice from your car. You can carry the microwave like a helmet, and place it on any flat surface to begin easy prep of your meal.

What we like

  • Portable and easy-to-carry design
  • Amped by a rechargeable battery

What we dislike

  • It’s still a concept, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

10. Fire Safe

Called the Fire Safe, this envelop-sized, portable fire and cooking companion is designed by Wolf & Grizzly. It lets you start up your own warm and cozy fire wherever it is safe to do so. The Fire Safe is great for fostering communal fires and facilitating cooking experiences with family and friends.

Why is it noteworthy?

It builds campfire and cooking experiences which reduce the environmental footprints created by most typical campfires. It features a hinged collapsible design that has a large fuel capacity.

What we like

  • Lightweight and slim design
  • Portable design that is easy to carry around

What we dislike

  • Made from stainless steel, which enables a patina to form over time, which may not be liked by all users

The post 10 Best Outdoor Kitchen Appliances For Seamless Cooking On Your Camping Trips This Spring first appeared on Yanko Design.

Portable Smart Induction Cooktop concept lets you cook healthy meals anywhere

There are now several ways to get fresh and healthy meals delivered to you, but the best option is still to cook them yourself. You get to decide on the ingredients and the process, plus you can probably even save money in the long run. That said, cooking isn’t always easy or convenient, especially when you’re not at home or don’t even have access to a kitchen. Portable cooking equipment is slowly becoming an option, but many still fall short of providing convenience other than having a hot surface to cook on. This induction cooktop concept tries to address many of those shortcomings with features that help you cook smartly and safely while also borrowing the clean and minimalist aesthetic that the brand Braun is best known for.

Designer: Jenil Shah

While it’s true that all you need to cook most food is a hot surface for pans and pots, that is really just the most basic cooking experience and definitely not the most convenient. There are other factors you have to consider while cooking, not least of which is the smoke that cooking produces. Keeping tabs on the food you’re cooking or even the ingredients you will be using is also part of the process, and the SY10 portable smart induction cooktop wants to make those parts as painless as possible.

Somewhat ironically, the induction surface itself is the least exciting part of this design considering how the technology has more or less been perfected at this point. Instead, parts like the built-in Smart Air Filter offer a more interesting, especially since it’s almost invisible as part of the design. When you’re not in your kitchen, having access to a range hood with fans is almost impossible, and even at home those usually only suck up the smoke and nothing more. The SY10’s, however, uses carbon filters to remove not just harmful smoke but also odors, keeping indoor air clean without making too much noise. The filter lies horizontally right next to the cooktop, but if you have a taller pot or cookware, you can actually rotate the filter to make it stand, ensuring that no smoke escapes its fans.

Most induction stovetops use touch-based interfaces to really capture that futuristic aesthetic, but it also makes them more confusing to handle and definitely less satisfying. The SY10’s Infinity Dial adds some good old-fashioned haptic feedback when you turn its ring, while a large circular display delivers instant information about the menus and functions you’re using. Amusingly, the dial requires you to squeeze its body to confirm an action rather than tapping that display, further emphasizing the physical dimension. Its more interesting feature, however, is a built-in camera and computer vision capabilities which allow it to look at a particular food or ingredient and determine whether it’s still good to use or if it’s going bad. And yes, that means you can actually detach the dial to use this function.

The SY10 design also includes a motherboard and other electronics to power its smart features, though its compact design might raise questions about the heat management that could affect those more sensitive parts. It does, however, need to be that compact in order to implement its portability, which would allow you to set up a small kitchen anywhere, whether indoors or outdoor, or even connect two such cooktops together. Those are important implementation details that need to be ironed out, but the concept remains an interesting one that could help take out some of the worries when cooking your meals away from home or even at home.

The post Portable Smart Induction Cooktop concept lets you cook healthy meals anywhere first appeared on Yanko Design.

Portable Smart Induction Cooktop concept lets you cook healthy meals anywhere

There are now several ways to get fresh and healthy meals delivered to you, but the best option is still to cook them yourself. You get to decide on the ingredients and the process, plus you can probably even save money in the long run. That said, cooking isn’t always easy or convenient, especially when you’re not at home or don’t even have access to a kitchen. Portable cooking equipment is slowly becoming an option, but many still fall short of providing convenience other than having a hot surface to cook on. This induction cooktop concept tries to address many of those shortcomings with features that help you cook smartly and safely while also borrowing the clean and minimalist aesthetic that the brand Braun is best known for.

Designer: Jenil Shah

While it’s true that all you need to cook most food is a hot surface for pans and pots, that is really just the most basic cooking experience and definitely not the most convenient. There are other factors you have to consider while cooking, not least of which is the smoke that cooking produces. Keeping tabs on the food you’re cooking or even the ingredients you will be using is also part of the process, and the SY10 portable smart induction cooktop wants to make those parts as painless as possible.

Somewhat ironically, the induction surface itself is the least exciting part of this design considering how the technology has more or less been perfected at this point. Instead, parts like the built-in Smart Air Filter offer a more interesting, especially since it’s almost invisible as part of the design. When you’re not in your kitchen, having access to a range hood with fans is almost impossible, and even at home those usually only suck up the smoke and nothing more. The SY10’s, however, uses carbon filters to remove not just harmful smoke but also odors, keeping indoor air clean without making too much noise. The filter lies horizontally right next to the cooktop, but if you have a taller pot or cookware, you can actually rotate the filter to make it stand, ensuring that no smoke escapes its fans.

Most induction stovetops use touch-based interfaces to really capture that futuristic aesthetic, but it also makes them more confusing to handle and definitely less satisfying. The SY10’s Infinity Dial adds some good old-fashioned haptic feedback when you turn its ring, while a large circular display delivers instant information about the menus and functions you’re using. Amusingly, the dial requires you to squeeze its body to confirm an action rather than tapping that display, further emphasizing the physical dimension. Its more interesting feature, however, is a built-in camera and computer vision capabilities which allow it to look at a particular food or ingredient and determine whether it’s still good to use or if it’s going bad. And yes, that means you can actually detach the dial to use this function.

The SY10 design also includes a motherboard and other electronics to power its smart features, though its compact design might raise questions about the heat management that could affect those more sensitive parts. It does, however, need to be that compact in order to implement its portability, which would allow you to set up a small kitchen anywhere, whether indoors or outdoor, or even connect two such cooktops together. Those are important implementation details that need to be ironed out, but the concept remains an interesting one that could help take out some of the worries when cooking your meals away from home or even at home.

The post Portable Smart Induction Cooktop concept lets you cook healthy meals anywhere first appeared on Yanko Design.