For some reason, it has long been nearly impossible to find attractive cleaning tools. Occasionally they'll turn up on Pinterest or other blogs, but invariably they're difficult to obtain because they were sourced from Europe (where everyone uses heirloom quality tools for everything, apparently). Beyond that, they were usually too expensive for something that, let's face it, is made to get dirty. Recently though, that modern, minimal aesthetic I've coveted has made it's way stateside, with retailers like West Elm and Crate and Barrel jumping on the trend.- By Nicole Balch

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I don't love cleaning. Funny enough, some of my closest friends love to clean, but somehow I didn't inherit that gene. I do like to give my place a good cleaning every now and again though, and spring is the perfect time to do it. I wasn't quite sure what I needed to tackle for my spring cleaning project, so naturally, I Googled it. I found 9 great tips that I think will make a big difference in my place, and I think could help you as well. Click through the slideshow to see the tips I found! -By Amy Anderson

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By Alyssa Goldman, Cheapism.com

It may not be an American holiday per se, but Cinco de Mayo is celebrated all over the country with tequila, margaritas, parties, chips, and salsa. Our contribution to the festivities: five cheap Cinco de Mayo party ideas.

But first things first -- what is Cinco de Mayo? The day, May 5, marks the anniversary of the Mexican army's victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the 1862 Franco-Mexican War. The French ultimately captured Mexico City, but Mexico's triumphant battle is reason enough to celebrate. Even 151 years later, the historic battle is a symbol of nationalism and patriotism among the Mexican people.

Salsa & chips.

Related: Best budget blenders

Here's to Cinco de Mayo...

1. Brighten up your table with paper flowers. Grab some colored tissue paper and create a "must" element of Cinco de Mayo décor: tissue paper flowers. All you need for this inexpensive Cinco de Mayo party idea is four sheets of 6" x 12" tissue paper, a pipe

Once temperatures start rising and daylight lasts a little longer, we all have the urge to get outside. Make your next backyard shindig or patio party even more special with a few touches inspired by the outdoors. We've also got the tips and tricks that make entertaining outdoors easier, like how to get perfectly grilled chicken, or how to keep your drinks cool when it's sweltering.

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Spring-Cleaning To Do List

Top 50 Everyday Money-Saving Tips

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There are endless decorating options for a nursery, but have you considered painting your child's dresser for a completely custom look? I love these DIY transformations that take each dresser from ho-hum to showstopping. By Melanie Blodgett

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These days, farmers' markets offer more than just nature's finest and freshest produce. These ten markets have devoted local fans-from near and farm-making them a destination in their own right.

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Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.