Sara Elliott has written over 400 articles for HowStuffWorks on topics ranging from who invented the cupcake to Cuban traditions.

Recent Contributions

Traditions are strong and long-lasting in Christian households. Some of these you may know well, but others could surprise you.

By Sara Elliott

Mold smells, and if you have it in your home, your nose is one of the most inexpensive devises you can use to detect it. The struggle is in understanding when mold is dangerous to your family or home.

By Sara Elliott

Termites are nasty customers, but they don't have to be a deal-breaker when you're buying a home. An expert can help you know what you're dealing with.

By Sara Elliott

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Termites can wreak havoc on a home, so you should always be on the lookout for an infestation. But what should you look for?

By Sara Elliott

When people run out of room in a small space, most just give up or start tossing out their beloved treasures. But before you get rid of your favorite piece, think about how you can go up instead of out.

By Sara Elliott

Glass cleaner is used on everything from windows to the kitchen table to the bathroom mirror. But is it safe for your laptop or other electronics? Will it scratch the screen or simply give it an amazing sheen?

By Sara Elliott

If you have a spare bedroom that's sitting empty just screaming for a purpose, why not turn it into an exercise room? That way, you get the convenience of a gym without the people to watch you sweat!

By Sara Elliott

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Owning a home can be a dream come true, but it's more than just relaxing weekends on the deck and intimate evenings in front of the fireplace. That's right; you have to work at it to keep it running smoothly.

By Sara Elliott

Working from home can be an awesome thing with many conveniences. But if you're toddler is constantly barging in or your spouse asks a million questions, then it's time for you to move into your own office -- with your own door.

By Sara Elliott

For a time, toilets were called necessaries, one in a long line of euphemisms used to describe the business end of handling a simple biological process. And now it's necessary to do what we can to conserve water. Enter the dual flush toilet.

By Sara Elliott

Water generators have been around for a long time, but they use a lot of energy. Enter the atmospheric water generator, cleaning your water one drop at a time.

By Sara Elliott

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With as much bacteria and grime that accumulates in a kitchen, washing your counters with soap and water just isn't enough. You've got to get down and dirty with a disinfectant.

By Sara Elliott

Ants are pretty predictable, and you can keep them out of your cupboards and pantry if you adopt a few ant-busting habits.

By Sara Elliott

So, you may not have a McMansion with three living rooms and 12 bathrooms, but you can still make the most of your small space. By choosing the right furniture in the right layout with the right lighting, your space can ooze charm and style.

By Sara Elliott

Construction has come a long way from the mud huts or canvas tents early man. But what materials should be used to keep that roof securely over our heads?

By Sara Elliott

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Let's face it: Bathrooms are going to smell. But there's good news, too. There are a number of things you can do to keep your bathroom smelling fresh and clean.

By Sara Elliott

Your oven is probably one of the most used appliances in your kitchen, and now, it can do so much more for you. So, if you're in the market, check out these features.

By Sara Elliott

After months of searching, you've found the perfect piece of antique glass to complement your decor. At least you think it's perfect. It's a little hard to tell due to the years of built-up dust and grime. Our tips can help you get it in tip-top shape.

By Sara Elliott

Food stains are a fact of life, but that doesn't mean you have to resign yourself to living with them permanently. Kick those stains to the curb with these tips.

By Sara Elliott

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In a pinch, you could probably do without most of the appliances in your home -- but would you want to? Life would certainly be different without these 10.

By Sara Elliott

Get ready to set your machine to perm press ... meaning, what? We'll explain this handy-dandy dryer and washing machine setting.

By Sara Elliott & Yara Simón

Whether they're blooming through a crust of snow or showing off their vivid colors while temperatures drop, hardy plants are thriving as the winter rolls in. And these 10 will make you want to dig that green thumb into the snow.

By Sara Elliott

Most ants are opportunistic feeders; they'll eat just about anything. There are some ant species that do have preferences, though.

By Sara Elliott

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You probably don't give your water heater much thought until your shower goes cold but it's an important appliance in your home. If your water heater's temperature is off, you'll want to learn how it works, including how to turn up your hot water heater.

By Sara Elliott & Talon Homer

Room soundproofing might not be on your HOA rules, but what if your neighbor's drumming is taking a toll on your last nerve? Here's how to soundproof a room without and make everyone happy.

By Sara Elliott & Talon Homer