Home & Family

How to Cut Summer Energy Bills: A Midwest Homeowner's Guide

The most effective ways to lower summer energy bills are setting your thermostat to 78°F when home, running ceiling fans counterclockwise to create a wind-chill effect, sealing air leaks with weatherstripping and caulk, adding attic insulation rated R-49 to R-60, and scheduling annual HVAC maintenance before summer starts. Used together, these measures can reduce cooling costs by 20% or more, according to the U.S. Department of Energy and Focus on

Read More July 6, 2026 | Blain's Farm & Fleet

How to Set Up the Perfect Kitchen Sink Station (Must-Have Essentials)

Quick answer: A well-organized kitchen sink setup includes five core components: a sink caddy or sponge holder, a drying rack or drying mat, a sink strainer, a faucet drip tray, and an under-sink protection mat. Together, these accessories reduce clutter, protect your countertops and cabinets, and make daily cleanup faster and easier. The kitchen sink is the most-used spot in most homes. Breakfast dishes, after-school snacks, dinner prep, pet water

Read More June 15, 2026 | Blain's Farm & Fleet

Make Summer Tasty: Easy Frozen Treat Recipes

When summer hits, the best afternoons usually involve something cold. This is a collection of simple, family-tested recipes for snow cones, slushies, homemade ice cream, and dairy-free fruit soft serve, paired with the countertop machine that makes each one. Every recipe here is built for a regular kitchen and a regular weeknight, no special skills required.  If you want to skip straight to a treat, jump to the section you’re craving. Each one tells you what

Read More May 28, 2026 | Blain's Farm & Fleet

The Ultimate Summer Road Trip Essentials Checklist (2026 Edition)

Don’t Forget A Thing on Your Next Summer Road Trip Planning a summer road trip? Whether you’re heading across state lines, cruising national parks, or taking a spontaneous weekend getaway, having the right road trip essentials can mean the difference between a smooth adventure and a stressful breakdown on the roadside. This complete summer road trip checklist is designed to help you prepare your car, your safety gear, your tech,

Read More May 1, 2026 | Blain's Farm & Fleet

Flooded Basement Cleanup and Prevention Tips

A flooded basement is an unwelcome sight for any homeowner. Follow these tips to clean up your flooded basement in no time.

Read More April 22, 2026 | Blain's Farm & Fleet

Shake Off Winter: Your Ultimate Spring Home Readiness Guide

Get your home ready for spring with this easy guide. From cleaning gutters to prepping your lawn, here is everything you need to know.

Read More February 3, 2026 | Blain's Farm & Fleet

Kids Workshop: Plant a Seed

Celebrate the start of gardening season at Blain’s Farm & Fleet! Join us Saturday, March 7, for our free Plant A Seed event. Kids and adults alike can plant their own seeds to take home, enter to win a raised garden starter kit, and share their creation for a chance to win a $100 gift card. No registration required — stop by while supplies last!

Read More January 28, 2026 | Blain's Farm & Fleet

Kids Workshop: Design a Dog Collar

Bring your creativity—and your pup’s personality—to life at our next Kids Workshop! On Saturday, February 21, design a colorful, custom dog collar using fabric markers in a fun, hands-on session led by our store teams. Space is limited, so register soon and send your furry best friend home in style.

Read More January 14, 2026 | Blain's Farm & Fleet

25 Hottest Holiday Toys of 2025

From interactive playsets to thrilling games, discover the must-have toys that are sure to be at the top of wish lists this holiday season.

Read More September 26, 2025 | Blain's Farm & Fleet

15 Best Christmas Decorations of 2025

Discover the top Christmas decorations of the year! From whimsical inflatables to classic handcrafted pieces, we have something for everyone.

Read More September 22, 2025 | Blain's Farm & Fleet

Microwave Oven vs. Toaster Oven

Compare microwaves and toaster ovens to find the best kitchen appliance for your needs. Learn about advantages and differences of each.

Read More September 17, 2025 | Blain's Farm & Fleet

15 Best LEGO Sets for Adults of 2025

Dive into the world of creativity and relaxation with our guide to adult LEGO sets, ranging from iconic vehicles to floral arrangements.

Read More September 12, 2025 | Blain's Farm & Fleet

10 Best Halloween Toys of 2025

Looking for the best Halloween toys of 2025? Check out our top 10 list featuring everything from spooky LEGO builds to cute plush toys.

Read More August 26, 2025 | Blain's Farm & Fleet

How to Carve a Pumpkin with a Drill

Create stunning pumpkin carving designs with a power drill! Learn techniques, design ideas, and pro tips for unique Halloween decorations.

Read More August 19, 2025 | Blain's Farm & Fleet

10 Best Halloween Decorations of 2025

Get ready to transform your home with the top Halloween decorations of 2025! From realistic skeletons to cute pumpkins, we have it all.

Read More August 8, 2025 | Blain's Farm & Fleet

10 Easy DIY Halloween Costumes for Adults

Get creative with these 10 easy Halloween costume ideas for adults. From cowboys to scarecrows, these DIY costumes are both fun and simple.

Read More July 30, 2025 | Blain's Farm & Fleet