House and Home

This is the default page for all “House and Home” information. If what you’re looking for doesn’t quite fit into one of our other H&H categories, it’s probably here. If it’s not, try a search, ask us about it by email at info@thepracticalfibromite.com, or just let us know in the comments!

General House and Home Tips
Planning to force paperwhites or other bulbs this winter? Start by mid-November for holiday blooms.

Many fibromites feel healthier in dry climates. Consider adding a dehumidifier to your home if your region is particularly humid. Portable models are reasonably priced and can remove gallons of water from your atmosphere each day.

If you need to block out intense sunlight but can’t afford sturdy blinds, try trimming black landscape fabric to size. It’s inexpensive, it’s lightweight enough that thumbtacks can secure it properly, and it prevents a significant amount of light and heat from entering your home. If you like, you can easily remove it each day as the sun changes position, too. For extra benefit, try double layers or painting the side that will face the street white – it’ll reflect the sun.

If you find yourself standing a lot, consider purchasing the cushioned floor mats used in restaurant kitchens. Most restaurant supply houses will offer several types, so you can select the one that feels best for your feet, legs, and back. Put them wherever you need a little extra support: some are attractive enough that they can be used throughout your home.

Choosing new rugs or carpets? Consider some deep, vibrant colors and patterns to liven up your home: the right selection can hide dust and dirt while simultaneously giving the whole room a visual lift – perfect for those days when fibromyalgia might otherwise get you down. This works with upholstery, too!

Love houseplants and cut flowers, but loathe the maintenance they require? Consider making friends with tillandsia. These easy-care plants, which are related to orchids, don’t require soil and only rarely require watering. Although you can mount them on cork, swing them from twine, or tuck them into a terrarium, you can always just place them on a convenient shelf or windowsill. With proper – and very intermittent – care, you’ll even get some beautiful blooms!

Having trouble getting your wheel-less garbage and recycling bins to the curb? You have some options. A dolly or a wheeled luggage carrier might be more traditional approaches, but you could also use a child’s wagon, a skateboard, or even an old office chair to help you move those unwieldy bins. [Also, some communities have special services to assist the physically impaired with disposal. Consider calling your municipal offices or your disposal company if this is a problem for you.]