Showing posts with label Home. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Home. Show all posts

Brinks Commercial Restroom Door Hook... Reviewed!

Shout out to Brinks for providing this product for review, my opinions are my own.


Quality: The quality of this 1.85-inch aluminum bathroom door hook is noticeable right out of the package. The door hook is durable... leaving no worries about it bending like a lawn chair if you hang a suit, dress, robe, travel bag, etc. This is more so a commercial product so it's shaped in a way that allows you to easily place clothing with hangers on it.



Design: When it comes to the design, I like the compact squared design of this door hook. When looking at it head-on... it looks like a little square and can blend in with a design without simply looking like a hook. The satin stainless steel finish is nice and ready for your shop's dressing room, bathroom, or wall. This isn't advertised as a hook for the wall, but... as an artist, I would use two to four of these hooks and place them side by side or even running vertically for a functional design in a shop or in a modern posh closet. A vertical design can either showcase the various colors a particular outfit has or... it could represent your selected wears for the week. Do I have a passion for fashion? It's possible. 

So don't look at this product as if it's solely something for the restroom or for commercial purposes. Creativity goes a long way. In terms of using this in the home setting, you're good to go if your metal accents have a similar finish and you seek for it to be cohesive. If you don't plan to alter the finish to something you currently have or plan to have, just know that this product only has one color option.

Installation: The Brinks Commercial Restroom Door Hook took me less than 10 minutes to install. The longest part was screwing out and screwing in the front plate of the hook... which wasn't long at all, just don't screw it out too far to avoid it falling out:

Price: Price-wise, you can get the Brinks Commercial Restroom Door Hook for... $10 which falls in line with door hooks. Of course, door hooks vary in design, but if you like this particular design... grab it here.


Quality 5

Design 5

Installation 5

Price 5


5 out of 5 Cool Points




Living A Tech-Friendly Life: 10 Ways To Make Your Home... Smarter!

In today's fast-paced world, technology has become an integral part of our lives. From the moment we wake up to the time we go to bed, we are surrounded by different forms of technology that make our lives easier and more convenient. A tech-friendly life is not just about having fun gadgets, but also about utilizing technology in various areas to reduce stress, increase productivity, and improve communication.

One of the most significant benefits of using technology is that it can help us save time. With the help of various apps and software, we can automate a lot of our daily tasks, such as grocery shopping, bill payments, and even cleaning schedules for bots or services. This means that we can spend more time doing things that we enjoy or that are more important to us, such as spending time with family and friends, pursuing hobbies, or focusing on our work.

Another way that technology can help us is by keeping us on task and organized. Voice reminders and to-do list apps are great tools that can help us stay on top of our daily tasks and ensure that we don't forget anything important. These tools are especially useful for people who have busy schedules or who struggle with memory issues. The Echo Show 15 acts as a household hub for family use.

In addition to saving time and keeping us organized, technology can also help us maintain our health. There are various apps and devices that can track our fitness levels, monitor our sleep patterns, and even help us manage chronic conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. By keeping track of our health data, we can make more informed decisions about our lifestyle choices and work towards achieving our health goals.

Technology can also help us create a more comfortable and efficient living space. Smart home devices such as thermostats, lighting systems, and security cameras can be programmed to work together and create a personalized environment that meets our specific needs. For example, we can set our lights to turn on automatically when we enter a room or program our thermostat to adjust the temperature based on our daily routine.

Overall, technology has become an essential part of our lives, and I feel a tech-friendly lifestyle can offer numerous benefits. By using technology to automate tasks, stay organized, maintain our health to the extent that we comply, and create a more comfortable living space, we can improve our overall quality of life and achieve our goals more efficiently.


Here are 10 ways to make your home smarter

1. Install a voice-controlled virtual assistant, such as Amazon Echo or Google Home, to control various devices in your home.


2. Install smart lights that can be controlled remotely using a smartphone app or with voice commands.


3. Set up a smart thermostat that can learn your habits and adjust the temperature accordingly. It can also be controlled remotely.


4. Use smart plugs to turn ordinary appliances into smart devices that can be controlled remotely or scheduled to turn on/off automatically.


5. Install smart locks on doors that can be controlled remotely and provide keyless entry options. Stay tuned for our review of the Brinks Commercial Keypad Entry Lever!


6. Invest in a smart security system that includes cameras, sensors, and alarms that can be monitored and controlled through your smartphone.


7. Set up a smart irrigation system to control the watering of your garden or lawn remotely, based on weather conditions or time of day. Lawn mower bots help keep your lawn nice and neat.


8. Use smart blinds or curtains that can be automatically opened or closed based on a set schedule or controlled remotely.


9. Integrate smart appliances, such as refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens, that can be controlled or monitored remotely for energy efficiency and convenience.

We can't forget about the cool convenient tech. I had to throw this in there because... come on, who would be against a freaking coffee table that also doubles as a fridge, wireless charger, and speaker system? What?! It also has a built-in touchscreen controller. Soundstream has a cheaper version. -  Blu 

10. Use smart speakers or sound systems to play music or audio throughout your home, providing a seamless entertainment experience.


Sophima | Guest Contributor

Support us via the helpful links below!

Fight the Chill: Top Safest Space Heaters... on Amazon!

As the temperatures begin to dip, a number of us turn our sights toward the thermostat... and I'm sure certain thoughts come to mind as well. Should I warm things up with the heater and potentially face a higher light bill? Can I hack it by simply turning off the AC? Should I go ahead and invest in a space heater? What if I just sleep in a thick Halloween costume created by someone named Nancy? Okay... okay, maybe not the last question, but... if your answer is a space heater, then this is the article for you:


This list of space heaters is in no particular order:

The Lasko 755320 is an oscillating space heater that offers two settings for high and low heat, and features an adjustable thermostat to keep the temperature in your room warm. Additionally, the heater comes equipped with built-in safety features, including a tip-over kill switch and overheat protection, ensuring that the ETL-listed product won't overheat even if left on for an extended period of time. One key advantage of this heater is that its exterior remains cool to the touch. The Lasko 755320 is best suited for medium-sized rooms, typically measuring around 12 ft x 18 ft (or 216 sqft).

If you're not familiar with ETL certification, it's worth noting that it's received through a third-party organization called Intertek, which is a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) recognized by OSHA and accredited by the Standards Council of Canada. This certification is a testament to the Lasko 755320's safety and reliability which increases peace of mind.

It's important to remember that even with certification, common sense is still required to prevent accidents. Avoid placing the heater near clutter, flammable, and combustible objects, and always give it enough space to work effectively.

While none of the products listed are the newest models on the market, they remain some of the safest options available.


The rest of the list includes:


DeLonghi TRD40615T Full Room Radiant Heater

This heater provides a range of features, including a child lock, manual thermostat, 24-hour timer, and overheat and tip-over protection. Moreover, the heater is designed to minimize dry air and provide a comfortable warm space. One standout feature of the DeLonghi TRD40615T is its anti-freeze setting, which automatically switches on the heater to help prevent frozen pipes in basements or vacation homes. If you're using this heater while you're away, it's best to have additional safety measures in place such as a camera in combination with a smart smoke detector and a smart outlet, as an extra safety measure The DeLonghi TRD40615T is ideal for medium and small rooms, with small rooms typically measuring around 10 ft x 13 ft (or 130 sqft).

Honeywell HCE323V Digital Ceramic Heater

One standout feature of this heater is its thermal insulated wiring, which prevents wires from burning. It also comes equipped with tip-over protection and overheat protection, which provides added safety and peace of mind. The heater can warm up large rooms, typically measuring around 15 ft x 20 ft (or 300 sqft), making it a practical and efficient option for households of all sizes. Another important feature to note is the innovative Safeguard motion sensor, which automatically shuts off the heater if anything comes too close to it. This feature sets the Honeywell HCE323V apart from other models on the market.


Dr. Infrared Portable Space Heater

The Dr. Infrared Portable Space Heater is a cute addition to the living space. With its 1500-watt output and wooden exterior, it stands out from traditional heaters on the market. Additionally, it comes with several useful features, including built-in wheels for easy portability, tip-over protection for added safety, and the ability to heat up even large rooms. Notably, this product has been certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) in both the USA and Canada. UL Solutions is a trusted organization that conducts rigorous testing and inspection of products seeking certification, ensuring that consumers can rely on the quality and safety of the products they purchase.


Dyson AM09 Hot + Cool Ceramic Fan Heater

  • Focused or wide airflow 
  • Tip-over protection
  • No visible blades
  • Intelligent thermostat
  • 2-Year Warranty


Vornado MVH Vortex Heater

  • 3 Heat Settings
  • Tip-over protection
  • Auto safety shut-off due to excessive heat
  • 5-Year Warranty
  • Cool to touch


Pelonis NY1507-14A Digital Radiator Heater

  • Covers 230 sqft (between medium to large rooms)
  • 3 Heat Settings
  • Tip-Over Protection

  • Overheat Protection
  • Programmable
  • ETL-Listed


Lifesmart 6 Element Infrared Portable Space Heater

  • Tip-Over Protection
  • Large Room Coverage
  • Washable Air Filter
  • Overheat Protection
  • Adjustable Thermostat


Comfort Zone CZ998 Oscillating Portable Space Heater
  • Tip-Over Protection
  • Adjustable Tilt
  • Overheat Protection
  • Large Room Coverage according to its 300 sqft range
  • Two heat settings


Please note that safety features vary by model, so be sure to read the product descriptions.

Not sure you're using your space heater safely? Check out these safety tips from Consumer Reports!



Sophima | Guest Contributor
                          + BLU 

Support us via the helpful links below!

Brinks Commercial Products... Reviewed!

Before I jump in, I just want to give a shout-out to the Brinks team for supplying these products.


We were supplied with 4 products from Brinks commercial line for the sake of testing them out. Two products were selected for security, and two were selected as a solution for issues that required a solution. Did the products help? Let's jump in!



Now that you've seen the products, here are some installation videos.


The Brinks Commercial Keyed Entry Knob... is a sturdy commercial knob that can work for a home setting, but... it feels better suited for a commercial office door or one in a warehouse (for those who prefer a more warm look for their home). As seen, the installation didn't take long.

This keyed entry knob, works well for the office door it was installed on. The knob doesn't wiggle, feels secure, and serves its purpose. The screws are covered for a clean look, and if the knob needs to be replaced, the process to remove the plate is smooth (just have something to pry the plate off). One thing I will say is to keep the pin on the same keyring as the key unless you have a place to tuck it nearby. This was placed on an interior door, but it works for the exterior as well for increased security. This knob is an ANSI Grade 2, meaning that a ram would be required to hit this knob's face at least 5 times for the person gain access. This is straight from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).


So thinking of a person without a ram trying to gain entry, gives even greater peace of mind. On a lighter note, it also keeps us out of Daisy's office while she's in a meeting that doesn't require our presence. A sign could work for that, but... as far as security goes, a solid keyed entry knob works.


Price-wise, the keyed entry knob you see here is generally sold in a set with a deadbolt for $59.96 or so. Not bad for commercial quality, so if you want to grab one of these knobs... and can't buy it ala carte, you're good to go with the deadbolt (which is also saw and pry proof). Did I forget to mention the 10-year warranty? Well, you get one of those too + based on my research... the deadbolt is Grade 1!

Now let's jump into The Brinks Commercial Kick Down Door Stop.



Although it would be better placed at the outer part of the door that swings away from the frame, I have the door stop closer to the crack of the door. The drop-down going into the studio... doesn't allow for it to be placed anywhere else, but it works and doesn't require me to have something to hold the door separately. The Brinks Commercial Kick Down Door Stop is incredibly sturdy and doesn't do that flimsy crap the way some others do where they just drop down if they aren't pushed up into a holder. You can flip it up and it stops halfway and stays up without a cradle.

When it comes to the look, I'd probably say that the bronze or the matte black might be a bit more appealing for the home setting... but the satin chrome looks great as well. This door stop comes in at $22.98 which works for the quality because I've experienced some bad/annoying ones. Ever see the door stops that require assistance just to make them kinda sort of work? This has been going strong and... without it falling down on its own to potentially wear down the grip over time, helps it last.

Now let's jump into the Brinks Commercial Privacy Door Latch.


This privacy door latch is great for commercial and home settings. Don't think that commercial quality products are reserved for commercial properties only. You might see this near the door of your suite at a nice resort, but... you can also place it in your home as well. The quality of this product is undeniable, it's thick + sturdy and... the screws that come with it run deep so that it can't simply get kicked in.

I wanted to present this particular product because you never know who may be at the door and the traditional chain isn't as efficient. This latch only requires one move, you push and it lifts out to block the door from being opened further. This is great for general safety, almost like an extra layer of defense when you're turning in for the evening, but... it can also be an emergency latch in a situation when you don't have time to run into the home and lock the door because someone is behind you. Let's hope this never happens, but on the flip side... this is also a great latch to prevent small children from leaving the home and wandering around. That can increase a parent's peace of mind.

I was actually in one of the old office spaces when I saw a little boy around 3 years old standing near the busy roadway. He was playing with a ball and no adults were in sight. I dashed out and ran over to get him away from the road and asked him where his mom was, and if could he show me. He wasn't aware of my concern, but that could've ended badly. He took me across to a home on the other side of a little field where his mom and the babysitter were. Let's just say the mom wasn't happy that the babysitter was wrapped up in her phone while her toddler found his way outside to play. It was really weird, and I wasn't happy either, but... luckily it ended on a good note. I bring that up, because... that situation wouldn't have been a thing with this privacy door latch installed on the home out of his reach.

This ADA-compliant privacy door latch comes in at $25.98. Oh... and before I forget, this doesn't prevent the door from closing. There are products that will block the door and stop it from closing when they're in use, but... the start wearing on the door. If this is out while the door is wide open and being closed, the door will merely push it down and close it. On that note, it's for doors that swing in only, that's where the resistance comes in. By the way, you also get a 10-year warranty with this one too.


Last but not least, let's jump into the Brinks Commercial Door Silencer.


This product is fairly simple, you place them in little holes in the door frame and they reduce the noise and absorb the shock of a door being slammed. There are people who literally don't realize their own strength when it comes to closing a door, but it can urk you to hear a door slammed hard. Luckily this softens the blow, especially if you have something like a frosted, etched, or stained glass section on your door. A hard enough slam would surely shatter such a glass whether it be tempered or not. According to Home Guide, you're looking at $150 to $500 on average to get a glass replaced. When it's the glass in a front door, we're talking $150 to $600... so $5.98 for a pack of 12-door silencers is a great investment.




Easy Installation 5

Durability 5

Warranty 5

Price 5


5 out of 5 Cool Points