News — DIYProjects

Choosing dish soap for me boils down to a question of economy versus ecology. According to The Naturally Clean Home, most commercial soaps are not soaps at all but harsh detergents “made from petroleum distillate, a toxic and nonrenewable resource.” Eek. The more environmentally friendly soaps, on the other hand, are often expensive. What’s an eco-conscious, design-minded individual on a budget to do? Make your own. Turns out it’s easy and fun. Plus you can customize your concoction with the scent and container of your choice. Photography by Justine Hand for Remodelista. Above: Most of the ingredients for making dish soap...

I have learned, over the past 79 days or so, that the apartment I moved into in January is not a good summer apartment. No matter which way my boyfriend and I configure the four windows in our place—windows open in the front and the back of the apartment, to catch a cross-breeze; front windows open only; all windows open, with shades drawn to keep out the sun—there’s not hint of air flow to be had. It is totally, completely still, and stifling hot. Which means I—who, in my last apartment, had the luxury of being anti-AC and pro-breeze—have had...