How To

As the holiday season approaches, selecting the perfect hostess gift is a wonderful way to show appreciation for the effort that goes into holiday gatherings. Whether you're attending a formal dinner, a casual get-together, or a Christmas party, a thoughtful gift goes a long way in expressing gratitude. Here are some top Christmas hostess gift ideas for 2024, offering a range of options that are practical, luxurious, and guaranteed to impress.     1. Gourmet Food Gift Sets   A gourmet food gift set is always a hit, especially during the holidays when everyone enjoys indulging in delicious treats. Opt...

Lavender oil has long been cherished for its versatile properties and numerous health benefits. Known scientifically as Lavandula angustifolia, it is derived from the flowering tops of the lavender plant and has been used in traditional medicine and wellness practices for centuries. Lavender oil offers a range of advantages, from its natural antimicrobial properties to its calming scent, making it an ideal ingredient in household and personal care products. Here’s an in-depth look at the many benefits of lavender oil and why it’s included in so many L'AVANT Collective products.   Natural Antibacterial and Antimicrobial Properties One of the primary...

Wooden cutting boards are a kitchen essential, providing a durable and attractive surface for food preparation. However, they require proper care to maintain their quality and prevent bacteria buildup. Cleaning and conditioning your wooden boards regularly will ensure they remain safe to use and last for years. Follow these simple steps to keep your wooden boards in top shape.     Wet the Board Begin by wetting the entire surface of your wooden board. This step helps loosen food particles and prevents soap from penetrating too deeply into the wood. Make sure to wet both sides of the board evenly...

As the winter months approach, many of us spend more time indoors seeking warmth and comfort. During this time, indoor air quality becomes especially important, as we are breathing indoor air more frequently. One of the most effective ways to create a healthier living environment is by switching to natural cleaning supplies before winter. Here’s why this is such a smart move:   Reduce Indoor PollutantsWhen we seal our homes to keep out the cold, it traps indoor pollutants. Traditional cleaners often contain chemicals like ammonia and VOCs that can irritate the respiratory system. Switching to eco-friendly products made with natural...

As the holiday season approaches, invitations to festive parties begin to fill up our calendars. Whether it’s a cozy dinner with close friends or a grand holiday bash, understanding the dos and don’ts of holiday party etiquette can help you navigate each event with ease. To ensure you’re the guest every host loves to invite, here’s a detailed guide on how to handle every aspect of holiday party etiquette—from RSVPing to choosing the perfect host gift.   1. RSVP Promptly and Thoughtfully It all begins with the RSVP. As soon as you receive an invitation, check your schedule and respond...

Finding the right gift for someone who loves cleanliness can be tricky, but it's a rewarding experience when you nail it. Clean freaks are particular about their surroundings and take pride in a spotless, well-organized space. A thoughtful gift that enhances their cleaning routine or elevates the aesthetic of their space will surely be appreciated. Whether you're shopping for a birthday, holiday, or just because, here’s a guide to help you choose the perfect gift for the clean freak in your life. 1. Luxury Cleaning Tools Elevate Their Cleaning Routine Every clean freak has their favorite set of cleaning tools,...

Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, marking the start of fresh adventures and lasting memories. Sending a thoughtful housewarming card is a great way to show your support and celebrate this new chapter. But finding the right words to capture the moment can sometimes be tricky.   To make it easier, we’ve compiled 101 housewarming messages, organized into categories to fit any tone—whether you're looking for something heartfelt, funny, short, or inspirational. We’ve even included a section for real estate agents. Find the perfect message below to share in the joy of someone’s new home.    ...

Calendula oil comes from the vibrant petals of the calendula flower, a plant that has been used for centuries as a natural remedy. People have relied on calendula to soothe skin irritations, heal small cuts, and reduce inflammation. Today, calendula oil is still popular in many skincare and personal care products because it’s gentle and effective, especially when used on the skin.   This oil is special because it combines several beneficial properties. It has antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory qualities, making it great not just for calming the skin but also for keeping it clean and protected. Calendula oil works...

As a football parent, you know grass stains are just part of the game. After every practice or game, your child’s football pants are sure to be covered in bright green. While these stains are a sign of your child’s hard work and fun on the field, they can also be tricky to remove. But don’t worry—getting grass stains out doesn’t have to be a battle. With a few simple steps and the right products, you can keep your child’s football gear looking fresh all season long.   1. Act Quickly   The key to removing grass stains is acting...

When you find yourself out of dish soap with a pile of dirty dishes staring back at you, it’s tempting to reach for the hand soap sitting on your countertop. After all, soap is soap, right? While you can technically use hand soap to wash dishes in a pinch, it's not the best solution for several reasons. Let’s talk about why dish soap, especially one designed for optimal performance, is the superior choice for cleaning your dishes. Why Hand Soap Can Work in an Emergency but Isn’t Ideal   Hand soap is formulated to clean your hands, which means it’s designed...

As kids head back to school, their backpacks go through a lot—carrying books, snacks, art projects, and more. With all that daily use, backpacks can quickly get dirty, picking up everything from crumbs and dirt to sticky spills and stains. Giving the backpack a good clean every once in a while helps keep it looking good and keeps germs at bay. In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple steps to clean your child’s backpack, so it’s ready for the new school year and all the adventures ahead.   Step 1: Empty and Inspect the Backpack   Before diving into...

Finding your home suddenly filled with flies can be frustrating and concerning. Flies are not just a nuisance; they can also carry diseases and contaminate food. Understanding what attracts them and how to prevent infestations is key to maintaining a clean and healthy home. Here’s a detailed guide to help you tackle this issue effectively.   Common Types of Flies Found in Homes   House Flies (Musca domestica): These flies are usually found around garbage, pet waste, and rotting food. They are common in households and are attracted to organic waste. Fruit Flies (Drosophila melanogaster): Attracted to overripe fruits, vegetables,...

Cleaning up can be a fun and engaging activity for kids, especially when it’s paired with a catchy tune. The "Clean Up Song" is a fantastic way to motivate children to tidy their space while singing along. Here’s a guide to help you incorporate this song into your routine, complete with lyrics and tips to make cleaning enjoyable for kids.   Why Make Cleaning Fun?   Turning cleaning into a game or a fun activity can help instill good habits in children from a young age. When kids see cleaning as a fun part of their day, they’re more likely...

When it comes to keeping your family safe and healthy, washing fruits and vegetables properly is a crucial step. Most of us rinse produce under water, but that often isn’t enough to remove pesticides, wax, and other residues. With L'AVANT Collective’s plant-based dish soap, you can create an effective fruit and vegetable wash that helps ensure your produce is clean and safe to eat. Here's how you can wash your fruits and vegetables with dish soap: Why Use L'AVANT Collective's Dish Soap for Produce? L'AVANT Collective's plant-based dish soap is a powerful, yet gentle, cleaner. It is made from natural ingredients and free from harsh...

Keeping your washing machine clean ensures it runs efficiently and extends its lifespan. Here’s a detailed list to help you clean your washing machine.   Why Clean Your Washing Machine?   Regular cleaning removes detergent build-up, mold, and odors, ensuring your clothes come out fresh and clean. A clean washing machine also operates more efficiently and lasts longer.   How do I clean my washing machine?   To clean your washing machine, follow these simple steps:   1. Gather Supplies   L’AVANT Collective Plant-Based Dish SoapL’AVANT Collective Multipurpose CleanerWhite vinegarBaking sodaSoft cloth or sponge   2. Clean the Drum   Empty...

Reducing plastic waste is an important step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. By making a few simple swaps, you can significantly cut down on the amount of plastic you use at home. Here are five easy changes you can implement today to help reduce plastic waste:1. Switch to Refillable Bottles for Cleaning Products One of the biggest sources of plastic waste in households is single-use plastic bottles for cleaning products. Switching to refillable bottles is a simple and effective way to reduce this waste.How to Make the Swap: Purchase reusable glass bottles from L'AVANT Collective and choose from our wide variety...

Cleaning a waffle iron properly helps it work well for many years. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to clean your waffle iron.     How do I clean a waffle iron?   To clean a waffle iron, follow these simple steps:   1. Unplug and Cool Down   Unplug your waffle iron and let it cool completely before you start. This prevents burns and protects the appliance.   2. Remove Loose Debris   Gently wipe away any loose crumbs or debris from the waffle grids using a dry paper towel or soft cloth.   3. Clean the Interior Grids...

Summer get-togethers are a cherished tradition, but they often leave behind stubborn stains on clothing, tablecloths, and outdoor furniture. Fortunately, you can tackle these common party stains using eco-friendly, plant-based cleaners. In this guide, we will discuss effective methods for removing BBQ sauce, mustard, charcoal, and more, ensuring your outdoor gatherings remain worry-free and your fabrics and furniture stay spotless. How to Remove BBQ Sauce Stains BBQ sauce, with its deep color and sticky consistency, can be particularly challenging to remove. Here’s a step-by-step method:Blot the Stain: Use a clean cloth to blot the excess sauce without rubbing it deeper into the...

As school doors swing shut for the summer, our homes burst into life with the energy of kids ready for their holidays. Summer isn't just a break from school—it's the perfect time to introduce children to new responsibilities. Integrating age-appropriate chores into their routine not only helps keep your home organized but also instills a sense of work ethic and responsibility. It's also an excellent opportunity to introduce them to eco-friendly practices that benefit our planet.   The Benefits of Chores Assigning chores to children can have a multitude of benefits. It teaches them about teamwork, responsibility, and the importance...

Bergamot essential oil is a staple in aromatherapy, cherished for its distinctive citrus scent with a subtle floral hint. Derived from the peel of the bergamot orange, this oil has a storied history and a versatile profile that integrates seamlessly into various wellness practices. Read on to see how bergamot essential oil can make a valuable addition to your daily life and wellness regimen. What is Bergamot? Bergamot is a distinctive citrus fruit, predominantly cultivated in the lush regions of southern Italy. Unlike its citrus cousins, bergamot is prized for its unique ability to be both uplifting and calming. The essential oil is cold-pressed...

We've rounded up the BEST for Mother's Day from some of our favorite brands! See what each team member is wanting (or gifting) this year.

As Mother’s Day approaches, it’s time to think about how you can show the special women in your life just how much you appreciate them. While flowers and cards are lovely, why not consider something practical that adds value and ease to her daily routine? Here are our top 5 practical Mother’s Day gifts for 2024: 1. Eco-Friendly Cleaning Kit Moms who appreciate sustainability will love a kit filled with plant-based cleaning products. L'AVANT Collective offers a range of high-performance, plant-based cleaning solutions that are both effective and beautifully packaged. Our Dish & Hand Soap Set and Luxury Laundry Kit are...

Accidentally spilling wine on your clothing can be frustrating, but if you act quickly, you can remove the stain completely. Follow these steps for the best way to remove wine stains. Step 1: Blot the Stain Immediately As soon as wine is spilled, take a clean, dry cloth and gently blot the stain. This helps to soak up excess wine, reducing the amount that sinks into the fabric. Remember to dab gently rather than rub to avoid pushing the wine deeper into the fabric. Step 2: Rinse with Cold Water Immediately after blotting, rinse the stain under cold running water....

Earth Day is April 22, 2024 and it's the perfect time to think about the impact our daily choices have on the planet. With our commitment to sustainable, plant-based cleaning products, we believe in making every day Earth Day. You can embrace a more eco-friendly lifestyle with just a few small, mindful changes, and that decision can help to ensure a healthier planet for future generations.How to Incorporate Sustainable Practices This Earth Day1. Refill and Reuse: Begin by minimizing your waste footprint. Choosing refillable products is a simple yet effective way to contribute to environmental conservation. L'AVANT Collective’s stylish, reusable bottles not only look great but also...

Making a DIY body scrub using lotion is a great way to exfoliate and moisturize your skin at the same time. It's simple, cost-effective, and you can customize it to suit your skin type and preferences. Here's a step-by-step guide to making your own body scrub at home using basic ingredients. What You'll Need: - L'AVANT Collective Fresh Linen Hand Lotion- Granulated sugar or fine sea salt (for exfoliation)- A mixing bowl- A mixing spoon or spatula- An airtight container for storage Step 1: Choose Your BasePlant-based lotion will be the base of your scrub, providing moisture and helping the exfoliating...

Spring brings warm weather and flowers, but for many of us, it also means dealing with annoying pollen allergies. Pollen can sneak into our homes, making us miserable with sneezing and itchy eyes. But don't worry, with some clever cleaning strategies, you can make your home a comfortable place, even during allergy season. So what's the deal with pollen and allergies? Pollen is a tiny particle that plants make, and it's a big reason for seasonal allergies. It's super light and can easily float through the air and into our homes. Once inside, pollen can stick to just about everything and...

Welcome to spring, the perfect time for a fresh start in your home! We've put together a super detailed spring cleaning checklist that covers everything. We're not just talking about the usual spots like the kitchen and living room; we're diving into all those special areas too, from your cozy reading nook to the garden outside. And guess what? We're keeping it green and clean with vegan eco-luxe cleaning products. So, whether you're sorting out your craft supplies, shining up those windows, or getting your garden ready for flowers, this guide is here to help you spruce up every inch...

Transforming your home into a space that screams luxury and sophistication doesn't necessarily require a hefty budget. With a few strategic touches and an eye for detail, you can elevate your living environment to mirror those of high-end designs.  1. Declutter and Organize A clean, well-organized space is the foundation of an expensive-looking home. Clutter can detract from the most beautiful interiors, so start by purging items you no longer need or love, and then organize what remains in a thoughtful manner. Consider sleek storage solutions that blend with your decor—think decorative baskets, stylish bookcases, and hidden storage furniture. A minimalist approach...

Love is in the air! Check out Kristi + Lindsay's Valentine's Day Gift Guide for 2024. Full of practical gifting ideas for people you love. For the Ladies in Your Life Pretty Puffer Vest Scallop Frame Mahjong Travel Set Classic Luxe Pajamas Cooler Bag Hemmed Sheet Set Plates Chica Tumbler Wreath Sash Hand Towel Makeup Case Border Notecards Gold Initial Notepad Essential Starter Bundle in Blushed Bergamot   For the Men in Your Life Tie Glasses Jacket Shirt Straight Rye Multipurpose Cleaner

Valentine's Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate love, and what better way to do so than in the comfort and intimacy of your own home? With this year's Valentine's Day falling on a school night in 2024, the charm of an at-home celebration is not just appealing but practical. Transforming your living space into a romantic haven doesn't require grand gestures; sometimes, the most memorable experiences come from the simplest acts, like a meticulously cleaned home, a beautifully set dinner table, and the soft glow of candles. Let L'AVANT Collective be your partner in crafting this idyllic setting.1. Sparkling...

Handwashing is more than just a routine—it's your daily mini escape and a crucial step in keeping your family healthy. The CDC has long advocated for handwashing as a primary defense against the spread of infections, emphasizing its effectiveness in preventing both gastrointestinal and respiratory illnesses, such as colds or the flu​.​​​ The magic lies in the simple act of scrubbing with hand soap and water, which lifts and washes away germs and dirt. But here's where it gets interesting: the handwashing experience can be as luxurious as it is essential. Enter high-end hand soaps, like those from L'AVANT Collective....

The holiday season is a time of joy, laughter, and gatherings with family and friends. As you prepare to welcome guests into your home, ensuring a clean and inviting space becomes a top priority. This guide offers practical holiday cleaning tips to help you transform your living spaces into welcoming havens, ensuring your guests feel the warmth of the season as soon as they step through your door. Deck the Halls with Cleanliness Clean and dust your holiday decorations, from tinsel to ornaments. A clean and well-maintained festive display sets the tone for a cozy and cheerful atmosphere. Ensure to...

The rich aroma of freshly brewed espresso is a delight for coffee enthusiasts, but maintaining the perfect cup requires regular maintenance of your espresso machine. While it's common to use commercial cleaners, many are unaware that plant-based cleaning products, like those from L'AVANT, offer an effective and environmentally friendly alternative. In this guide, we'll explore the steps to clean your espresso machine using more natural solutions, ensuring not only a well-maintained appliance but also a greener approach to your coffee ritual. Why Choose Plant-Based Cleaning Products? Environmentally Friendly: Plant-based cleaners are derived from natural sources, reducing the impact of harmful chemicals on...

The L'AVANT Holiday Gift Guide! Kristi's + Lindsay's top picks for holiday gifting. 🎁 Lip Treatment Kit by Three Ships Beauty Vanilla Musk Body Sponge Duo by Trish McEvoy Swiss Foot File by Gehwol Gypsy Water Body Wash by Byredo Goe Oil by Jao Brand Dry Brush by Goop Lococo by Loco Magic Adidas Gazelles by The Edit LDN Black Backpack by Anya & Niki Dickey Jacket by Veronica Beard Chain by Mariah Christofilis Vegan Leather Weekender by Malia & Lili Midnight Superbloom Crush by Bathorium Annecy Coat by Toteme Studios Next Ex Shirt by TWP Clothing The Nori Press by Nori...

Makeup brushes are an essential tool for achieving a flawless look, but they can also be a breeding ground for bacteria, oils, and makeup residue. To maintain healthy, radiant skin and preserve the quality of your makeup, regular cleaning of your brushes is crucial. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of cleaning your makeup brushes and share some helpful tips to keep them in top condition. Before delving into the cleaning process, it's essential to understand why you should clean your makeup brushes regularly: Preventing Breakouts: Dirty brushes can harbor bacteria and oils, leading to...

In a world where convenience often trumps frugality, it's easy to forget that simple DIY solutions can be just as effective as their store-bought counterparts. Homemade gel ice packs are a prime example of this - they're easy to make, cost-effective, and can be customized to suit your needs. In this guide, we'll show you how to create your very own homemade gel ice pack using common household items, with our plant-based dish soap as the star ingredient. Materials You'll Need: - A strong resealable plastic bag (quart or gallon-sized)- L'AVANT Collective High Performing Dish Soap- Water- Food coloring (optional, for...

A clean and organized home can work wonders for our well-being, productivity, and overall quality of life. But, let’s face it—getting motivated to clean can be a daunting task, especially when the mess feels overwhelming. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a cluttered room, wondering why you can’t motivate yourself to clean, you’re not alone. The struggle to find that initial spark of inspiration is a common challenge we all face from time to time. The good news is with the right strategies and a little mindset shift, you can conquer your cleaning-related apathy and embark on a journey...

Here at L’AVANT Collective, we’re known for high performing, plant-based natural cleaning products housed in elevated packaging. We’re also known for our customer favorite Fresh Linen scent that makes cleaning up uplifting. So you can imagine what a big deal it is for us to launch a NEW proprietary scent: Blushed Bergamot. Read on to discover all there is to love about the entire L’AVANT Collective Blushed Bergamot line of eco friendly cleaning products, and what you can expect now that it's here. (Hint: We think you can expect to love it as much as we do!) What does Blushed...

Spooky season is upon us, and we can’t get enough of pumpkin patches, cozy candles, and all those warming spices leading up to Halloween. The morning after those Halloween parties, however, can bring a frightening realization: The telltale signs of Halloween costume makeup on our clothes and upholstery. Before you panic, read on. We’ve got helpful hints on removing Halloween makeup from fabric–and they start with L’AVANT Collective.  What is “Halloween makeup”? Halloween makeup comprises both everyday makeup from your makeup bag, and the thick, oil-based paint that you often find in party or costume stores. In general, Halloween makeup...

School is back in session, and for many of us, that means major shifts in the daily routines we enjoyed all summer. These adjustments don’t have to mean sacrificing a clean home, however. In just a few minutes, after school messes from tired and hungry family members can be cleaned up and surfaces can be wiped down to get ready for dinnertime, thanks to our favorite organic cleaning products. Here are our top picks for non-toxic cleaners for after school messes–and thanks to our gentle plant-based formulas, they’re safe enough for little helpers to use, too.  Post-snack spills and stickiness?...

Whether you have a dedicated laundry room in which to use your natural laundry products or your washer and dryer share their space with your basement or garage, having a well-organized laundry “room” can not only save you time and energy, but it can make this necessary chore feel less burdensome. While many of us give careful consideration to organizing our kitchen pantry or home office, the laundry room often gets overlooked when it comes to home organization–but not anymore! Here are our favorite ways to organize your laundry room to make laundry day less laborious.  Empty the laundry room...

It’s no secret that this summer has been a brutal one, and with temperatures soaring into the triple digits for much of the world, there’s no getting around it: Our laundry has borne the brunt of our sweating. Body odor in clothing can be notoriously difficult to get rid of, but don’t toss that t-shirt or workout gear just yet. Thanks to the powerful plant enzymes in L’AVANT Collective non toxic laundry detergent, your clothes will look brighter, feel softer, and yes–even smell better! Here’s how plant enzymes get even the dirtiest, sweatiest job done to leave your laundry clean...

No matter what our best intentions are for keeping things tidy around the house, kitchen countertops have a way of becoming cluttered, however big or small they are. That’s because our kitchens truly are the heart of the home–and that means a lot of foot traffic, a lot of gathering for eating, socializing, working, and doing homework, and a lot of “I’ll pick that up later.” Because we love a clean, organized house, we’ve honed a few helpful ways to keep clutter off kitchen countertops–and we think you’re going to love them as much as we do. Read on to...

For many people, getting a kitchen “truly clean” means using bleach when cleaning. A little spray on the countertop, a little in the mop bucket…but using bleach to clean your kitchen may leave you feeling less like cooking in your kitchen and more like you need to open the windows and get some fresh air–now. The good news? You don’t have to clean your kitchen with harsh bleach. Instead, reach for non toxic cleaning products that keep your home clean while still being safe for you, your family, and your pets. Here’s how. Why should I avoid bleach in the...

It’s no secret that we love cleaning. After all, L’AVANT Collective was born out of our combined love of beautiful design and a clean house! As it turns out, however, our “cleaning quirk” isn’t so much a quirk as it is…a stress reliever? It may seem like a stretch, but hear us out: Cleaning can actually be beneficial for easing stress. Here’s how cleaning can make you feel calm–and why what you use to clean with matters to your physical and mental well-being. Cleaning can ease anxiety If you’ve noticed that you take great comfort in wiping down your countertops...

It’s official: Ice cream season is here, and that means reveling in all the delights that an ice cold treat on a warm summer day can bring. Unfortunately, it also means ice cream stains on our clothes. But as much as we love being clean, there’s not a chance we’re going to miss out on a scoop or two when the occasion calls for it! Instead, we’re turning to the powerful natural enzymes in  L’AVANT Collective High Performing Laundry Detergent to show us how to naturally remove ice cream stains. Consider this your summer wardrobe saver!  Removing ice cream stains...

When you think about a spa treatment, what comes to mind? For us, it’s not solely about the treatment itself (though that, of course, is always a treat!) –it’s also about how relaxing the space is to spend time in. From minimalist decor and greenery to scents that ease whatever burden we’re carrying, spas have a way of hitting the reset button so we can keep going. There’s no reason we can’t recreate a spa experience at home, of course, and it doesn’t have to be overwhelming to do so. Here are our favorite five ways to transform your bathroom...

Late spring heralds the arrival of “moving season,” when more people move house than any other time of year. From now through the end of summer, new homeowners will be packing, unpacking, and throwing housewarming parties. If you’ve been lucky enough to receive an invite to a loved one’s new home but aren’t sure what to give as a housewarming gift, we’ve got some ideas sure to put you at the top of the “best gift giver” list. The best gifts for the new homeowners in your life begin with performance cleaning products and natural home goods that elevate their...

If you’re like us, you wait all winter for the first buds of spring. And while every year we swoon over the trees and flowers bursting into bloom and all the color and beauty they provide, our enthusiasm is short-lived once the weeds take hold. Trying to keep weeds in check can feel daunting, but you don’t have to reach for a toxic pesticide to use as a weed killer. Instead, you can mix up a batch of homemade weed killer with L’AVANT Collective eco-friendly dish soap. With a little commitment and this natural homemade weed killer, you can be...

If you’ve got travel plans on the horizon, we’ve got good news for you. We’ve created a NEW travel cleaning set with must-have L’AVANT Collective natural cleaning favorites to take with you to your hotel, AirBnB, or even your camping site for a touch of ‘glamping’. Here’s why it matters that you can clean up with L'AVANT natural dish soap, organic hand soap and non toxic multipurpose cleaner when you travel–and with packaging this elevated, you can bet wherever you’re staying will look even better than when you checked in.    Natural cleaning products for a highly effective clean  For...