Summer is finally here! It’s time to open the boat dock closet and dust off all your favorite lake toys for swimming. Whether it’s an inflatable dart board or a massive float in the shape of a flamingo, these toys add an extra fun element to the summer lake experience. But of course — let’s not leave the pets behind! Your animals are ready to enjoy the season just as much as you are. If you’re looking for the best lake toys for dogs at your lake house, check out these recommendations!
Although pups are famous for enjoying lake water, why should they doggy paddle if they don’t have to? This bright orange, bone shaped float is perfect for any medium-sized dog. It’s built to resist odors and mildew — plus the vibrant color is great for lake safety.
If your dog loves playing fetch indoors, they’ll love playing in the lake too! That’s exactly what these floating squeaky toys are for. With any dog toy, you’ll want to make sure it’s hardy enough for their teeth. As such, most brands such as this one from Calling All Dogs make them to be durable to withstand dogs biting down on them.
For the pup who enjoys chasing frisbees more than balls, this Ruffwear Hover Craft is for you. Essentially a floating frisbee, this toy is perfect for the open water, where you can throw it as far and wide as you’d like. Since it can be used on land or water, it’s also a versatile toy!
Oh no, there’s a shark in the water! Actually, it’s just the amphibious shark fin toy. This fun, floating toy from Chuck It always sits upright in the water, resembling a fish fin. The bright green and orange colors make it especially visible in water, so your dog can go “hunting” any time of day.
Another one for the dogs trying to reel in the catch of the day! Made from non-toxic materials and recycled rubber, these fake fish are cleared for your pet’s safety on the lake or in a pool. They come in a pack of multiple, brightly colored fish — perfect for a full day of staying active at the lake!
This portable, durable float from Swimways is perfect for your pet to relax on the lake. Although it’s specifically designed for small dogs, it can hold up to 65 pounds. A major plus, the fabric is paw-and-claw friendly so it won’t get destroyed by your pup after just one day of summer fun.
Does your dog love chasing squirrels, and you’re always pulling them away? Then your pet will absolutely love this chewable flying squirrel. Since it floats, this lake toy can be used in the water or in your backyard. Complete with glow-in-the-dark corners, you can play fetch on cool summer evenings!
We hope you and your pampered pooch enjoy the lake this summer!
There is something deeply meaningful and nostalgic about owning a lake home. This is the place where memories are made, where families and friends gather, and where life is blissfully celebrated. Lake homes are sanctuaries that comfort us, draw us in, and invite others to come inside, relax, and stay awhile. No matter your style—whether cozy and casual or opulent and grand—the essence of any lake home captures the beauty of its surroundings within the walls of the interiors.
So how do we go about getting the right look that suits our functional needs and individual tastes? We spoke to Marta Mitchell, ASID, the owner and president of the award-winning MM Interior Design Group in Greensboro, NC. Marta has designed numerous waterfront properties nationwide, and her tireless attention to detail ensures a unique design that reflects every homeowners’ artistic vision and desire.
“With a beautiful view right outside, why not take advantage of it?” says Marta. “Every room should be designed in a way that highlights its natural surroundings. The interior should be designed with windows and glass doors as focal points. Let visitors enjoy the outdoors from every room possible,” she sums. Unless you need added privacy or shade from intense sunlight, consider leaving windows in public spaces uncovered. Limit sumptuous draperies to your private rooms to cocoon them in softness and create a sense of coziness.
“The trick is to keep it simple,” Marta explains. “Consider a more neutral palette rather than bright window treatments, furniture, and rugs. That way, your eyes won’t be distracted by the interior, and you can focus on the beautiful lakefront surroundings,” she adds. If you absolutely love bold colors, fear not. Introduce them in accessories that can be easily changed when you’re ready for something new.
The designer suggests repainting dark ceilings in lighter tones to open up space visually. She also recommends painting walls, trim, and paneling in monochromatic hues to create a satisfying unity. “For color relief, leave the ceiling white,” notes Marta. “But always feel free to mix and match motifs and styles however you like to create a carefree informal look.”
“Keep clutter out of your lake house kitchen and try to limit dishes and glasses to the essentials,” Marta suggests. “If you have space, installing a second refrigerator is a great idea for storing drinks and leftovers,” she adds. Lots of cabinet storage space will also eliminate visual clutter.
Other elements to consider when planning your kitchen include plenty of seating for family and guests. Most kitchens are the heart of the home and the place we prefer to gather for every occasion. Ample counter space and island seating with counter stools make it comfortable for everyone to sit and keep the cook company while preparing meals. It’s also a great space for overflow entertaining when the whole house is being used.
“Choose durable seating for minimal worry and upkeep and design a color palette that connects visually with the surroundings to blur the distinction between indoors and out,” says Marta. “If you’re planning on entertaining or inviting guests, it’s a good idea to add furniture and accessories that can double as extra seating to accommodate a crowd,” she adds.
Other ideas to consider? Have large custom cushions or pillows made and use easily movable ottomans for additional seating in a pinch. If you know you’ll need extra sleeping space year-round, built-in bunk beds are a great space saver and perfect for kids’ rooms.
“After a busy day with friends and family, you need a peaceful place to relax,” says Marta. “Think of the master bedroom as your serene oasis at the lake. A calming palette is a perfect thing to create this effect—consider a grey or white scheme. If privacy is needed, opt for soft linen draperies or blinds, which will allow light filtration and not completely obstruct beautiful views,” she adds.
Mix rustic woods with lavish textures to create a pleasing contrast, and consider adding a fireplace to invite warmth. Plush area rugs create softness underfoot, and luxurious blankets and throws wrap you in cozy comfort on cool nights.
When planning outdoor spaces, your lake home’s geographic location and its orientation on the lot are key considerations. “Morning or afternoon sun is critically important to take into account and will determine your space planning and furniture layout,” says Marta. “Also, keep in mind the function of each space—will it be used for lounging, entertaining, playing games—and do you plan to include other features such as an outdoor kitchen, a fire pit, or a swimming pool,” she notes. Deciding these things early on in the process will help create a cohesive design, a smooth traffic flow, and an effortless indoor/outdoor feel.
“For both covered and uncovered seating areas, fabric selection is essential,” adds Marta. “Performance outdoor fabrics have come a long way, but most manufacturers don’t recommend leaving cushions outside year-round. Making sure you have convenient and adequate space for storage is an important consideration,” she sums.
We hope these ideas get you thinking about your own dream lake home. For more inspiration, visit Marta’s showroom of Signature Projects and her project Gallery.
In summer, you’re living your best lake life. But then, after only five minutes outside, mosquitos start landing and biting. Ugh. Fortunately, you can deal with these pests by installing ceiling fans and screens. But when you’re away from your lake home, there’s one established method for keeping the bugs at bay — bug spray. It’s almost synonymous with the smell of summer. Despite its widespread use, there’s a lot of unanswered questions you may have about bug repellent. At Lake Homes Realty, we’re here to answer them.
In short, yes! Bug spray works by repelling insects rather than killing them. Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide in our breath, sweat, and pores because it helps them find food (i.e., your blood). Mosquitos can detect carbon dioxide from up to 35 meters away! Essentially, bug spray works by disguising your scent.
To achieve a scent that repels, most products use DEET — the most well known and widely tested active ingredient in bug spray. The U.S. Army first developed DEET in 1946, and it’s been in public use since 1957. Today, the U.S. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved 120 DEET products. Natural plant-based mosquito repellents are popular as well, and plenty of natural ingredients repel mosquitos. However, according to the National Poison Control Center, they do not last as long as synthetic products.
Unlike sunscreen, more is not better when it comes to bug spray. Most repellents can be harmful in large quantities. Joseph Conlon, a technical advisor for the American Mosquito Control Association, instructs, “ALWAYS apply according to the label specifications. The label is a federal law. If you over-apply, you are violating federal law.” Instead, you should apply one smooth layer over the exposed skin, ideally from 4-8 inches away.
Because bug repellent contains pesticides, it’s important to avoid applying it to the face, hands, and open wounds. Also, pleasedo not allow children to apply repellents to themselves. The risk of getting the spray in their eyes is too high.
After applying, keep in mind that lotions take 20 minutes to set in, while sprays provide protection immediately.
Sunscreen first, then repellent. If you think it’d be simpler to combine them, don’t. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not recommend lotions or spray products that mix sunscreen and repellent. When wearing both, keep their different application times in mind. While sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours (though this varies based on sweat, swimming, etc.) bug spray lasts at least four hours.
Is it Ok to Sleep with Bug Spray On?
Photo courtesy of Caleigh Waldman via the New York Times.
Since most bug sprays are chemical, it’s good to wash it off when you go into your lake house. However, if you fall asleep after a long day in the sun, you’re probably fine. Joseph Conlon comments, “Repellents are generally quickly metabolized and excreted, so there is probably little harm as long as one is applying the proper amount.” Just be sure to never spray indoors, for risk of inhaling the fumes!
The first rule — always look for an EPA registration number. From there, it’s up to personal preference. REI has a comparison chart with the pros and cons of different brands. You can also use this search tool to identify EPA approved insect repellent. However, some products are ineffective. According to these mosquito repellent testers, you should skip the bracelets and citronella candles. For tried-and-true bug sprays, here are some products to try:
REPEL Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent: This lightweight, plant-based repellent protects you from mosquitos for up to 6 hours. It has a pleasant scent and does not plasticize.
Mosquito Repeller from Thermacell: This pick is not a bug spray, but it produces repellent as a shield for anyone in a stationary outdoor setting.
OFF! Clip Ons:This contraption uses a battery-operated system to blow the spatial repellent Metofluthrin around you. It’s been shown to be effective in a lab, but efficacy studies are still underway.
“Don’t forget the life jacket!” you’ve probably shouted (or had a family member shout at you) while boarding your boat. Arguably the most critical water safety device, life vests are essential for every lake homeowner. Federal Law requires all boats to be equipped with one wearable life jacket per passenger. The U.S. Coast Guard categorizes PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices) into five categories based on their function and buoyancy. While some are designed for boating in rough waters, others are made for calmer sports like canoeing. Most every type is available in standard (inherently buoyant), inflatable, and hybrid styles. Before focusing on choosing a life jacket style and cleaning and storing them, it’s important to understand these five basic life jacket classifications.
These are the biggest, bulkiest, and most buoyant of the group. This life jacket is suitable for all types of water, but it’s specifically helpful in rough, remote waters where rescue may be slow. Often too intense for recreational use, it’s mandatory for commercial vessels 40+ feet.
Minimum buoyancy: 22lbs (adults) 11lbs (kids)
Advantages: Extreme buoyancy. If an overboard passenger is unconscious, they’ll most certainly stay face-up in the water.
Disadvantages: Heavier and less comfortable due to excess flotation material.
As the name suggests, Near Shore Vests are designed for use in calm waters that are relatively close to the shore. These would be appropriate for activities like fishing and sailing, where a nearby boat could provide rescue.
Advantages: More comfortable than type I and turn most wearers face-up in the water if unconscious. Simple, reliable design, and inexpensive.
Disadvantage: Compared to Type I, these life jackets are not as useful in a situation where rescue is unlikely. When unconscious, some wearers may not remain face up.
Similar to Type II, Flotation Aids are made for calm, inland waters. The difference is that flotation aids are specifically useful for watersports like fishing, waterskiing, and wakeboarding. Examples of this type of life jacket include float coats, fishing vests, and water sports vests.
When a passenger falls overboard, throw a Type III life jacket their way. A device that is designed to be held rather than worn; this category includes ring buoys, horseshoe buoys, and floating cushions. Like types II and III, they are designed for calm waters with a good chance of quick rescue.
Minimum buoyancy: 16.5 lbs for a ring buoy or 18 lbs for boat cushion
Advantage: Can easily be thrown from a boat to the overboard passenger. They’re also easy to carry aboard a boat — just be sure not to use as a cushion as it degrades the foam.
Disadvantage: Not designed for children and non-swimmers. They also do not count as a “wearable vest” per federal regulations, and can only be used as backup support.
This final life jacket category includes vests for unique activities like sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, water skiing, white water rafting. Think of specialized uniforms like deck suits, work vests, and insulated jackets for cold waters.
Minimum buoyancy: 15.5lbs to 22lbs
Advantages: They’re uniquely tailored to your activity.
Disadvantages:They are not generalizable for all recreational use. They also require extra effort, as they must be worn when underway. You can’t just have them on board.
Grab the jacket that’s right for you, and stay safe on the water!
Lake season is right around the corner, but before you invest in that new bathing suit and head down to the water, be sure to take the proper steps to de-winterize your lake home.
Window Wisdom
Months ago, before the first cold front hit, you checked all your windows for damage, improper seals and cracks around your windows and frames.
Well now’s the time to open them back up and let in the sunlight and fresh air.
You don’t have to seal your home for the entire winter for the air to get stale; even if you’re only away for a couple of weeks, you might be starting off your lake season with some unwelcome odors.
As you air things out, make sure all your windows have no new breaks or cracks and that no screens have been torn and need replacing.
Pipe Protection
The key to de-winterizing your pipes is to go slowly.
Before turning the water on, check that all bathtubs and faucet nozzles are turned to the “off” position, and remove the aerators from each of your home’s faucets.
Aerators are the small, screens inside the faucet that save water and reduce your utilities bills, but minerals can build up on them and limit your water pressure.
Next, carefully turn open the water valves beneath your sinks, toilets and water heater by rotating them counterclockwise.
You will also want to turn on an outdoor water valve before turning on the main water supply, located on your home’s water meter.
The main supply should be opened slowly. Allow a small flow of water for 20 seconds, then allow a small amount more. Increase the flow in small increments until the source is fully open.
Inside, run water from every faucet, and flush every toilet. As you did before, start with a small water flow in each faucet, and increase the flow in small increments. Don’t get in too big a rush; if there is too much pressure inside the pipes, sudden changes could cause them to crack and even burst.
Make sure your water heater is full before cutting off the electricity until your first spring home-stay.
Reattached all your fixtures’ aerators and turn your faucets back to the “off” position before you leave.
Rooftop Recommendations
Winter weather usually means heavy snows and high winds, and you may find unwelcome evidence on your home’s roof.
Check for any missing shingles (the wind can whip them off clean), and look for damage from fallen limbs. It’s also important to look for holes, cracks and breaks in your home’s gutter system.
Also, if you take some time to rid your gutters of the small accumulations of leaves, sticks and other debris, you can prevent not only damage to your gutters, but also damage to your home from overflow during hard rains.
One of the best safety measures that you can rely on while out on the water is the use of personal flotation devices (PFDs).
A personal flotation device, also referred to as a life jacket or life preserver, is a piece of equipment designed to assist a wearer, who may be either conscious or unconscious, to keep afloat.
In case you’re wondering, you can check your state’s PFD requirements here.
The bottom line is that PFD’s save lives. But, these devices will only work as they should if they are maintained and stored properly between uses.
Here are a few tips on how to store and maintain your personal flotation devices to be sure they’re always ready to go at a moment’s notice.
To keep PFDs clean, all you need to do is wipe them down with a solution of mild soap and warm water and then rinse thoroughly. When cleaning stains from life jackets, use a stiff-bristled brush to gently scrub them away, but avoid using bleach, solvents, or other stain removers. The strong chemicals in these products can break down the materials PFDs are made from, thereby compromising their integrity. When exposed to saltwater, a quick rinse is needed to remove residue before allowing your device to dry.
After washing your PFD, hang it up in the open air away from direct sunlight and leave it there to dry thoroughly before storing it. Never place it in the dryer or near a heat source, as this could cause the vinyl or plastic components to warp or crack. Personal flotation devices should never be dry cleaned.
Flotation devices should be inspected on a regular basis, preferably before each use. Some of the things you should look for include:
Broken or damaged hardware
Ripped, torn, or missing webbing
Webbing that has become unattached
Mold or mildew
Rotted material
Large rips or tears
Oil spills, as this could affect buoyancy
Inflatable vests should also be inspected for:
Bobbins and pins that aren’t operating properly
Evidence of any corrosion on the CO2 cartridges
Nozzles that have not been punctured by the firing needle
It is also a good idea to manually inflate vests from time to time in order to check for leaks. Allow them to remain inflated overnight to be sure they are working properly, and repair or discard any that are not holding air as they should.
Boating laws typically require that PFD’s are readily accessible to all passengers onboard a vessel. Make sure that your PFDs are actually taken out of the plastic wrapper they came in prior to use. The U.S. Coast Guard does not consider these devices to be ‘readily accessible’ if they must be unwrapped first. In addition, you must generally carry a throwable device onboard all watercraft that is 16 feet in length or longer.
When you’re not on the water, you should store flotation devices in a cool dry area with adequate ventilation. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as UV rays could prove harmful to them. Hang them up whenever possible rather than placing them on a shelf or the bottom of a locker. If hanging them up isn’t possible, make sure heavy objects are not placed on top of them, as this can also cause damage.
Personal flotation devices play an important part in keeping you safe on the water. Although it might seem trivial, properly cleaning, inspecting, and storing your PFD’s will go a long way to make absolutely sure that they are functional and in good working order for when you need them.
