#upholstery maintenance
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Seasonal Strategies for Sofa Maintenance: Ensuring Year-Round Comfort and Cleanliness
Your sofa is more than just a piece of furniture; it's a central part of your comfort and daily life. With each season presenting unique cleaning challenges, keeping your sofa in top condition might seem like a formidable task. This guide provides specific cleaning recommendations for every season, helping your sofa stay welcoming and fresh throughout the year.
Spring Awakening: Revitalizing Your Sofa
The arrival of spring marks an ideal time for a thorough sofa cleaning. Begin with a comprehensive vacuuming session to eliminate dust and allergens accumulated during the winter. Tackle any spots or spills with a solution of mild, environmentally friendly soap and water. For fabric sofas, it may be wise to enlist a professional cleaning service for deep-seated stains, ensuring your sofa is primed for the brighter days ahead.
Summer Vigilance: Shielding Against Humidity and Sunlight
The warm summer months can introduce humidity and prolonged exposure to sunlight, both of which can adversely affect your sofa’s fabric. To prevent fading, position your sofa away from direct sunlight and strive to maintain a cool, dry environment indoors. Regular vacuuming, complemented by the use of lightweight, breathable covers, can help safeguard your sofa. Additionally, applying a manufacturer-recommended conditioner to leather sofas can prevent the material from drying out and cracking.
Fall Preparations: Setting the Stage for Autumn Comfort
With the shift in season, your sofa maintenance routine should also adapt. Autumn is the perfect time to vacuum your sofa thoroughly, paying special attention to crevices where crumbs and debris might gather. Applying a fabric protector can offer defense against spills from seasonal beverages and snacks. Given the likelihood of increased indoor activity and gatherings, stepping up your cleaning efforts during this period is advisable.
Winter Care: Ensuring Cleanliness Amidst the Cold
The cold winter months require diligent sofa care, especially with the increased usage during holiday festivities, which can lead to more crumbs and potential spills. Utilize mats or trays under holiday refreshments to minimize spill risks. Regular, weekly vacuuming becomes even more critical, and employing washable throws and blankets can help shield your sofa from extra wear and tear.
Essential Sofa Cleaning Practices for All Seasons
Certain sofa cleaning habits are beneficial year-round. Promptly addressing spills through spot cleaning can avert permanent staining. Consistent vacuuming, carried out at least every other week, is crucial for removing surface dust and debris. Moreover, scheduling an annual deep cleaning by professionals can ensure any deep-set dirt and stains are effectively removed, prolonging your sofa's life and appearance.
By adhering to these seasonal cleaning tips, you can maintain your sofa as a focal point of comfort and elegance in your home all year long. Welcome each new season with a sofa that's clean, fresh, and ready to offer comfort, no matter the weather outside.
#upholstery maintenance#stain removal#fabric care#deep cleaning#eco-friendly solutions#pet odor treatment#professional upholstery services#DIY cleaning tips.
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Restore your car's interior to its former distinction and eminence.We will assist you in having a revitalizing makeover for the interior of your vehicle. We provide a wide range of high-quality interior detailing services to restore your car's inside to brand new. Contact us for the best car interior in Dubai:+971 551681948 [email protected]
#car interior#car restoration#car customization#car upholstery services#car maintenance#car service#car repair
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Car Upholstery Maintenance
I'll say you what the others are and give you brief explanation. Then we'll look through the different types of upholstery, some cleaning techniques, maintenance and in the end determine which is the most appropriate. We'll start obviously with the seats. The general public prefers plush or microfiber, but there is nothing like black or white leather it just make the car look fashionable.
Easy Tips for Maintaining Your Car's Interior Upholstery
Interior carpets, headliners, door panels, and inside handles – these are all crucial components of your car's upholstery that often go unnoticed until they start showing signs of wear and tear. Just like any other part of your vehicle, proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure longevity and a pristine appearance. Here are some easy-to-follow tips to keep your car's interior upholstery in top condition. Vinyl & Leather Repair is indispensable for maintaining the quality and aesthetics of car upholstery, ensuring it stays durable and appealing over time. With expert attention to detail, our services safeguard your car's interior, preserving its value and enhancing your driving experience.
Understanding Upholstery: More Than Just Seats
When we talk about car upholstery, it's not just about the seats. Interior carpets, found under the seats and in the trunk, also fall under this category. These durable carpets can last long with proper care but can easily get damaged if neglected. Additionally, the cover of your car's ceiling, known as headliners, may develop ripples and loosen over time, requiring replacement or tightening.
Essential Maintenance Tips
Avoid Smoking: Smoking not only poses a risk of burning the upholstery but also leaves behind a stubborn, foul-smelling residue that's hard to remove.
Immediate Stain Treatment: Act promptly if a stain occurs, following the cleaning procedure suitable for your carpet and couch.
Regular Vacuuming: Aim to vacuum your car's interior upholstery at least once a week to prevent dirt and dust buildup, which can degrade the fabric over time.
Leather Conditioning: If your car has leather upholstery, regular conditioning is crucial to prevent it from drying out and becoming brittle.
Monthly Deep Cleaning: Invest in specialized cleaning products for a thorough monthly shampooing of your upholstery, ensuring a fresh and clean interior.
Protective Products: Consider using protective products to extend the cleanliness of your upholstery and shield it from stains and damage.
Mind What You Transport: Be mindful of transporting heavy or sharp-edged objects, as they can easily damage delicate upholstery.
Tackle Tough Stains: Surprisingly, glass cleaner can effectively remove some stubborn stains from your car's upholstery.
If you have vinyl upholstery aside from the commercial cleaners I endorse baking soda, rubbed with a damp cloth. Leave it to dry and vacuum systematically. Ammonia or hydrogen peroxide can be used to brighten rugs that are of course of you can resist the smell.
By following these simple maintenance tips, you can ensure that your car's interior upholstery remains in excellent condition for years to come, providing comfort and aesthetics every time you step inside.
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it really is me and my ifixit kit against the world
#crow.txt#i don’t have a full-sized tool set and i’ve been doing small repairs around the apartment#yes i could get maintenance to do it but honestly if i want it done right i need to do it myself#i’ve also been repairing old furniture which has been really rewarding :)#i inherited my grandmother’s hope chest and my grandparent’s dressers#the upholstery on the chest unfortunately got damaged after a potted plant incident at my mom’s#so i just removed the fabric and hand washed it to salvage as much as possible#and now it’s ready to be re-upholstered once i find the right fabric
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Rug Cleaning Irmo
Trust our professional rug cleaning services in Irmo to revive and protect your favorite area rugs. From delicate oriental rugs to sturdy synthetic fibers, we handle each rug with care, ensuring thorough cleaning and vibrant results!
#carpet cleaning Irmo#professional carpet cleaning#Irmo carpet cleaners#carpet maintenance services#commercial carpet cleaning#deep carpet cleaning#eco-friendly carpet cleaning#upholstery cleaning services#tile and grout cleaning Irmo#hardwood floor cleaning services#rug cleaning Irmo#carpet cleaning company#local carpet cleaning services#best carpet cleaners Irmo#Whitehall Carpet Cleaners#WhitehallCarpetCleaners#whitehallcarpetcleaners.com
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#House cleaning#House Cleaning in Sydney#Professional House Cleaning Service#Carpet Cleaning#Kitchen Cleaning#Window Cleaning#Bathroom Cleaning#Regular Cleaning Services#Deep Cleaning Services#Upholstery Cleaning#Initial Cleaning#Dirt2Neat#Regular Maintenance#Living Area Cleaning#Staircases Cleaning#Cleaning Service
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The Shocking Truth About Dirty Air Ducts: How Neglecting Them Could Harm Your Health
Do you know what’s lurking in your home’s air ducts? If you haven’t had them cleaned recently, the answer might surprise you. Dirty air ducts can harbor a variety of pollutants and contaminants, including dust, mold, bacteria, and even pests. In this blog post, we’ll discuss why it’s essential to have your air ducts cleaned and how neglecting them could harm your health.
What’s Hiding in Your…
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#air duct cleaning#carpet care#carpet cleaning#carpet disinfection#carpet maintenance#carpet protection#carpet restoration#carpet shampooing#deep cleaning#dryer vent cleaning#professional cleaning#rug cleaning#stain removal#steam cleaning#upholstery cleaning furniture cleaning couch cleaning sofa cleaning armchair cleaning loveseat cleaning sectional cleaning leather cleaning
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Deep Carpet Cleaning: Various Methods And Advantages Of Having Regular Carpet Cleaning
Deep carpet cleaning has many benefits that make it a great choice for those who are looking to get their carpets cleaned. Deep carpet cleaning will remove all the dirt, dust, and stains from your carpets, leaving them looking and smelling fresh and new. Deep carpet cleaning is also great for removing allergens from your carpets, which can be beneficial for those who suffer from allergies or asthma. Deep carpet cleaning is a safe and effective way to clean your carpets, and it is an affordable option as well.
Various Methods Of Deep Carpet Cleaning
Deep Carpet Cleaning
There are a few different methods that can be used for deep carpet cleaning. Some of the most common methods include hot water extraction, dry cleaning, and steam cleaning.
Hot water extraction is considered to be one of the most effective methods of deep carpet cleaning. This method involves using hot water and pressure to remove dirt and stains from the carpet.
Dry cleaning is another popular method of deep carpet cleaning. This method uses chemicals to break down dirt and stains.
Steam cleaning is a less common method of deep carpet cleaning, but it can be effective in certain situations. This method uses steam to loosen dirt and stains from the carpet.
Advantages of Having Regular Deep Carpet Cleaning and Repair
It helps in improving airflow inside the home.
Dirty carpets can obstruct an appropriate airflow inside the home. The carpet is clogged with too much dirt and small particles which will compromise the airflow. Areas along the walls that require air to maneuver won't receive proper airflow as the small debris impedes the air movement. The dust on the carpet will get airborne once it gets disturbed by movements. Cleaner carpets will contribute to improved and better airflow inside the home.
It has to be noted that if the carpets are not maintained, it'll cause major issues to the home’s air quality. It can pose threats to mold growth, mildew, and mites. These things should not be left on the carpet as they can permeate the air, which can lead to allergy aggravation and foul odor.
It helps in saving money and extending the carpet’s lifespan.
If a carpet collects loads of dirt and becomes too unusable, it'll be discarded. Carpets can cost a lot of money, especially the larger ones. Regular maintenance can help a carpet retain its original aesthetic. Carpets will have an extended lifetime and avoid the expensive costs of shopping for a replacement carpet. Maintenance is cheaper than frequently buying a replacement one.
Frequent carpet cleaning is additionally vital for homes because it can extend the carpet fibers’ lifespan. Carpets have plenty of traffic as it is frequently stepped upon or spilled on which may end in permanent soiling or stains. If the carpet is often cleaned, it can stop any spots or stains from becoming permanent.
It helps in avoiding any health hazards.
Carpets are great flooring materials that help in adding comfort and beautifying a home’s interior design. Still, carpets are known to be a tract for bacteria. If not frequently cleaned, carpets can accumulate dirt and allergens. If a family lives in a house with badly maintained carpets, they will likely develop respiratory problems. Folks that have allergies can also experience breathing issues. The airborne dirt particles and allergens trapped within the carpet can cause allergies and asthma.
Uncleaned carpets will expose the family to those harmful particles. The contaminants within the carpets can lead to various health problems. The most vulnerable are old, pets, and kids who can easily get sick. Vacuuming can aid in removing dust mites, bacteria, and dirt but it cannot fully get rid of these particles if it has accumulated over time on the carpet fibers. A professional carpet cleaner is needed for homes and establishments to completely get rid of all the disease-causing bacteria and allergens.
It helps in minimizing and avoiding dark traffic lanes to appear.
Carpets that have the foremost foot usage inside the house include areas like living rooms, hallways, and kitchens. Carpets that are in these areas will quickly deteriorate compared to carpets that are placed in the bedroom. Dirt is constant in those locations and maybe darker than the carpets placed on the opposite parts of the house.
If left dirty for an extended time, the dirt will stick on the ground, creating a dark “traffic lane” on the floor. The outline of the carpet will get imprinted on the ground with a black mass. If carpets are regularly cleaned, these dark areas are often prevented and aid in restoring the cleanliness of the floors.
Vacuuming and carpet cleaning are great tasks to prevent any dust from accumulating. Homes and establishments must ensure that they will have professionals to thoroughly clean their carpets. People must make sure that the deep carpet cleaning service they hire is skilled and reputable to get the best benefits with their budgets.
#Carpet Cleaning Pro Fort Worth TX#carpet#carpet cleaning#carpet cleaning service#cheap carpet cleaning#carpet cleaning cost#upholstery cleaning#deep carpet cleaning#area rug cleaning#oriental and fine area rug cleaning#carpet cleaning contractor#carpet cleaning benefits#carpet maintenance#carpet cleaning company#fast carpet cleaning#best carpet cleaning
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Veterans Lawn and Carpet Care | Carpet Cleaning Service in Lawrenceville GA
At Veterans Lawn and Carpet Care, our team strives to offer quality service to keep your home or business looking its best both outside and inside with our cost-effective lawn care, pressure washing, and Carpet Cleaning Service in Lawrenceville GA. Our focus is always to provide reasonable rates for high-quality work and materials. If you want to keep your home or business looking neat and sparkling, you should opt for our lawn maintenance, carpet cleaning, and Pressure Washing in Lawrenceville GA. Our customer support is available 24/7 to answer all your queries. Contact us today for your free quote.
#Carpet Cleaning Service in Lawrenceville GA#Pressure Washing in Lawrenceville GA#Lawn Care and Maintenance near me#Upholstery Cleaning near me#Tile and Grout Cleaning near me#Hardwood Floor Cleaning near me
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Affordable Boat Maintenance and Repairs Services Phoenix, AZ
Westside Marine is your expert in boat maintenance in Phoenix, AZ, offering a wide range of services for marine repair and maintenance that you can count on. Schedule an appointment.
https://westsidemarineaz.com/services/
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The Ultimate Guide to Deep Cleaning Your Sofa: Tips and Tricks
Keeping your sofa clean and fresh requires regular attention and the right approach to deep cleaning. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you effectively deep clean your sofa, ensuring it remains a comfortable and inviting part of your home.
https://ecopowersteamcarpetcleaning.com/
Pre-Cleaning Preparation
Vacuum Thoroughly: Start by vacuuming the entire sofa. Use the upholstery attachment to remove dust, crumbs, and pet hair from the surface and crevices. Don’t forget to vacuum under the cushions and in the seams where debris accumulates.
Check Manufacturer’s Instructions: Look for the cleaning instructions tag on your sofa. It usually has codes indicating the type of cleaner to use:
W: Water-based cleaner
S: Solvent-based cleaner
WS: Either water or solvent-based cleaner can be used
X: Professional cleaning only
Choose an Appropriate Cleaning Solution: Based on the manufacturer’s tag, select a suitable cleaning solution. For a DIY approach, a mix of mild dish soap and warm water works well for “W” coded fabrics.
Spot Cleaning and Stain Removal
Tackle Stains Immediately: Address spills and stains as soon as they happen by blotting (not rubbing) the area with a clean, dry cloth.
Apply a Suitable Cleaner: Use the cleaner recommended by your sofa’s care instructions or your prepared solution. Test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the fabric.
Use a Soft Brush: For tougher stains, gently work the cleaner into the fabric with a soft-bristled brush, then blot away the excess moisture with a clean cloth.
Deep Cleaning Your Sofa
Apply Your Cleaning Solution: Gently apply your chosen cleaner to the sofa fabric, working in sections. Use a soft cloth or sponge to lightly dab the solution onto the fabric without soaking it.
Steam Cleaning (for “W” or “WS” Codes): If your sofa is labeled for water-based cleaning and you have a steam cleaner, you can use it for a deeper clean. Be careful not to overwet the fabric to avoid potential mold growth.
Drying: Allow your sofa to air dry completely. Open windows or use fans to circulate air and speed up the drying process. Avoid using the sofa until it’s fully dry.
Post-Cleaning Care
Maintain Regular Cleaning: Vacuum your sofa regularly and clean spills immediately to keep it in the best condition.
Rotate Cushions: Regularly rotating and flipping sofa cushions helps maintain their shape and distributes wear evenly.
Protective Measures: Consider using sofa covers or throws in high-traffic areas to protect against spills and stains. They can be easily removed and washed, providing an additional layer of protection.
By following these steps, you can deep clean your sofa effectively, extending its life and keeping your living space welcoming and hygienic. Regular care and immediate attention to spills can keep your sofa looking and feeling great for years to come.
#Sofa cleaning#Fabric care#stain removal#odor elimination#upholstery maintenance#eco-friendly cleaning solutions#professional cleaning services#DIY cleaning tips#pet-friendly cleaning methods
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Things to research before getting your first custom manual wheelchair
one of the biggest things I can recommend to anyone getting a new custom chair (but especially a first custom chair) is to understand all of the parts of a wheelchair and what they do. I decided to make a guide with wheelchair parts to research and places to look for information to make this process a little bit easier. additional link suggestions are welcome.
General resources:
Permobil - The Wheelchair Handbook
Motion Composites - Preparing for Your Wheelchair Evaluation: Before the Evaluation (Part 1)
Motion Composites - Preparing for Your Wheelchair Evaluation (Part 2)
1. Frame
Motion Composites - Folding vs Rigid Wheelchair Frames: How to Choose
Permobil - Manual wheelchairs: rigid and folding frames. How do you choose?
GTK - Oh what’s in a frame? Comparing Multiple Materials
Motion Composites - Wheelchairs: Carbon Fiber Versus Aluminum
2. Front frame angle
Motion Composites - Understanding the Impact of Rigid Wheelchair Front Frame Angle
Sunrise Medical - Rigid Frame Wheelchairs – Frame Angle and Inset
4. Seat dump
Permobil - Ergonomic Seating and Manual Wheelchairs
Spinlife - Wheelchair Back & Seat Angle
5. Caster size, style, and position
Motion Composites - Front Casters for Manual Wheelchairs Practical Guide
Sunrise Medical - Front Caster Position in Manual Wheelchairs
6. Caster forks
New Mobility - Caster Wheels and Forks
Sunrise Medical - Maneuverability in Manual Wheelchairs - What Fork to use?
New Mobility - Innovations: Emerging Trends in the Wheelchair Market (information about single sided forks)
7. Footplate
Motion Composites - Footrest Options to Support Function and Mobility
When Tania Talks - Active User Wheelchair Footplate Options
8. Calf strap
Spex Seating - Lower Leg Support Considerations in Wheelchair Seating
9. Seat pan
Permobil - Solid Seat Insert for Wheelchair: Taking a Closer Look at Cushion Components
10. Seat cushion
Permobil - What to Look for in Seating & Positioning Products
Permobil - How to Choose a Cushion in Long Term Care
Permobil - Cushion Geometry: Linear and Contoured
Freedom Mobility Center - Wheelchair Seat Cushions: 5 Tips for Choosing the Right One for You
Mobility Basics - Seat Cushion Rigidizer
Motion Composites - Selecting the Right Cushion for Your Wheelchair a Clinicians Guide
Motion Composites - Covering the Basics of Wheelchair and Back Support Covers
11. Seat belts
12. Clothing guards
Sherman Oaks Medical Equipment - Wheelchair Clothes Guards / Side Guards Guide
13. Arm rests
United Spinal Association - Wheelchair Armrests What Do They Really Do?
Spinlife - Wheelchair Arm Rest Choices
Motion Composites - Armrests: Getting the Support you Need
14. Back supports
Motion Composites - Solid vs Upholstery Backs
Mobility Management - How to Choose the Right Back Height for your Client
Freedom Mobility Center - Why a Solid Back is Preferred Over a Sling Back
Mobility Basics - Back Supports
Sunrise Medical - Tips for Selecting Prefabricated Wheelchair Backs
Motion Composites - Covering the Basics of Wheelchair and Back Support Covers
15. Head supports
16. Push handles
Motion Composites - Push Handles: Pushing Around
17. Wheels
Motion Composites - Rolling Along: The Importance of Rear Wheel Selection
Sunrise Medical - Comparing Wheelchair Wheel Spoke Options
Mobility Basics - Manual Wheelchair Wheels
18. Tires
New Mobility - Everything You Need to Know About Selecting the Right Wheelchair Tires
GTK - Solid versus Pneumatic Tyres
Mobility Basics - Manual Wheelchair Wheels
Motion Composites - Tire Selection: Balancing Performance and Maintenance
19. Brakes
Motion Composites - Wheel Locks: Unlocking Safety and Function
20. Push rims/Hand rims
Motion Composites - Getting a Grasp: Understanding the Impact of Hand Rims
DME Hub - Wheelchair Hand Rom Options and Factors to Consider
21. Anti-tip wheels
22. Camber
Motion Composites - Camber - Degrees of Performance
23. Center of Gravity
Motion Composites - Rear Wheel Position 101
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Guillermo's resume is like "13 years experience in: historical landmark maintenance, groundskeeping, hazardous waste disposal, crime scene cleanup, antique clothing and upholstery care and restoration, event planning. 2.5 years experience in: private security, conflict resolution. 1 years experience in: childcare and early childhood education for ages 2-13."
#guillermo de la cruz#wwdits#plus the 1-2 years of experience in baking and customer service from panera!
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Motorhomes are basically a home with a motor in it. Although this definition also covers my home (which has several motors inside it,) we’ll elide that particular information and move on to the thrust of my story. A heavily-used motorhome, especially one that’s been sitting out in a farmer’s field for years, is cheap.
There’s a lot of reasons for this, the primary one being that they quickly become the primary residence of field mice. Although the Disney corporation will tell you that mice are cheerful and fun friends, this is at best a lie of omission. What mice actually do is pee and poop all over everything, chew the insulation off of wires, and occasionally crawl inside part of the climate control system and die. Like my uncle used to say at his used car dealership, if you find a dead critter in this one, we’ll take ten percent off.
I know what you’re saying: even with a discount, how can it be worthwhile if you have to tear out all the “home” part and replace it with new upholstery, new carpet, and new walls? The answer is the “motor” part. Motorhomes are often equipped with enormous, lazy engines, designed to rack up the miles with little or no maintenance. Those engines will outlive the owners’ disinterest in ever going anywhere. As long as you’re willing to dispose of the wrapper it came in, you can have a pretty beefy V8 for surprisingly few pennies (before your trip to the local speed shop to pick up several hundred dollars of Chinese camshafts and nitrous oxide kits.)
Of course, I did mention the big problem there: disposing of it. Just how do you get rid of a motorhome? Towing them is expensive, so you should make your best effort at getting it running and drive it to its final destination. Wherever you take it needs to be cool with you sawzalling the engine out of the chassis and taking off with it in the back of a pickup truck. Most junkyards are wise to your bullshit, and won’t accept a vehicle that’s ninety percent wood and mouse piss by volume.
The answer, naturally, is just to drive it right back to a farmer’s field. Maybe find one with a bunch of other RVs already there, and tuck it into the pack. It might be years until they find out about it, and today’s battery-powered sawzalls are both extremely quiet and very easy to return to Home Depot for a refund when you’re done. It’s called “recycling,” and it’s very good for the planet.
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Hope the end of your school year went well! From the new alphabet prompt, what about Going on a road trip and being so regular about it.
Hey, love. It was tough, and I crashed in more ways than one afterwards, but I'm doing better now. Thanks for the prompt! Have some in between high school and college Everlark shenanigans on me.
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When the beat up blue car pulls around the corner, I rise and grab my bag that’s been serving as a bench.
I’m actually surprised he’s this early. It must not have taken long to pick up the rest of our group. But I wanted to be out here and not risk anyone having to ring our bell and realize it doesn’t work. Or risk them stepping on the third step, which is basically splinters pretending to be a step. Or see the wreck of our living room after my mom worked double shifts for a week to get the last bit of tuition I couldn’t cover with scholarships, while I worked double shifts to save up for this trip.
I’ve been both dreading and anticipating it, and watching my ride slowly drive down the street, as though the driver is unfamiliar with the neighborhood, I catch myself biting my thumb nail and quickly wipe it on my jeans.
The car stops smoothly, no squealing of brakes, and I blink as I notice that it’s only the driver in the car. Guess he picked me up first.
“Hey,” Peeta Mellark says as he gets out of the car his brothers have all shared for the past eight years as they worked their way successively through high school. He greets me like we’re old friends instead of virtual strangers who sometimes got paired in our math classes.
“Guess I get shotgun,” I say as I stagger towards the trunk with my bag.
“Perks of being first pick up,” he says and takes my bag from me. He places it gently in the trunk, like it weighs nothing, right next to his. “So Madge is next, then Seamus.”
I try not to gag at the reminder. Madge is fine. I like Madge, but Seamus is a jackass and a half. At least Peeta is picking him up last, so I don’t have to spend as much time in the car with that dickhead.
“Great,” I say and open the car door before sliding in. The interior smells fresh. Clean. The floorboards are spotless, as is the upholstery. I’m actually shocked at how clean the car is, given that the car has a reputation as a Shaggin’ Wagon, along with his older brothers’ reputations as total horn dogs.
I blush as I consider how that reputation has extended to Peeta since he started driving the car last year with both his older brothers finally off at college. The whispers from girls about how it’s always a good time driving with Peeta.
I squirm in the seat and hope he shampooed the upholstery too. The last thing I want to think about is what’s gone down in this seat. I glance behind me as Peeta pulls away from the curb and decide the bench back seat isn’t a better option.
“So, Katniss,” he says and I scoff at the clear attempt at either small talk or a pick up.
“Brakes don’t squeal anymore,” I say and Peeta shifts gears, then runs a hand through his hair.
“Uh yeah. Neither of my brothers were really good about the routine maintenance on the car. I’ve been fixing things here and there, changed out the belts and filters, flushed a few of the fluids and gave her fresh ones, new wiper blades, that sort of thing. But the tires and brakes were expensive so that was a more recent thing.”
“Oh. Extra shifts at the bakery since graduation covered it?”
“Yeah, barely,” he says and taps his fingers on the wheel before he shifts to third and starts the winding road up to Madge’s home.
“How about you? Been working extra summer shifts too?”
“Why do you ask?”
“Oh. Well it’s just usually you bring your sister into the bakery during summer. Haven’t seen you guys yet. That’s all. Figured you must be busy.”
“Gotta make gas and grocery money somehow,” I mutter.
Peeta doesn’t answer though, because we’ve reached Madge’s house. She too is waiting outside, with two suitcases standing side by side, gleaming in the sun. Her father waits with her. I fiddle with the vents and climate control as Peeta gets out of the car. Notice a cooler and a snack bag on the floorboard in the back as I halfway listen to Peeta talk to Mr. Undersee and load Madge’s bags.
Madge slides in and rolls down her window. “Bye Daddy!”
“Call me when you get to Aunt Maysilee’s tonight.”
“I know I know,” Madge cuts him off. “And when we hit the road in the morning. And anytime we stop for more than thirty minutes, and when we get to Panem U tomorrow afternoon. I’ll be with Katniss and Peeta the whole time, Daddy. He’s a super safe driver and you know she’ll take care of us.”
Mr. Undersee talks to Peeta for a few more minutes, and it’s clear that he’s asking Peeta about the maintenance on the car, the planned route we’ll be taking.
I take the chance to turn around and hiss at Madge. “You didn’t tell me he’d be picking me up first.”
“I didn’t?” she asks a little too innocently.
“Whatever,” I say and turn back around to find a decent radio station. I’m a little miffed that Madge didn’t warn me. She knows I don’t have a smartphone and couldn’t be on the group thread Peeta started for our road trip. I’ve had to talk to the group and Peeta through Madge to get ready for this trip.
“Figured you’d enjoy a few minutes alone with him,” Madge says right in my ear, making me gasp. “I mean, you do like him, don’t you?”
“Everybody likes him,” I say and give up on the radio.
“Yeah, but you really like him,” Madge hints. I’m grateful when Peeta opens his door. Final farewells are said and Peeta gets back in, Madge sits back and buckles her belt.
“Alright, Seamus and then we’re on our way,” Peeta says. Madge groans and then leans forward towards Peeta.
“Do we have to?” I’m a little surprised. Madge is usually so quiet and nice, but Peeta actually laughs.
“Unfortunately, yes. Our mothers are in the same book club and I’ll never hear the end of it I don’t. He’s signed up for the same orientation slot as us.”
“More good news,” Madge says and flips back in her seat.
We’re friends, Madge and I, at least the kind of friends who sit together at lunch and assemblies and in any shared classes. We stick together in P.E. And when we found out we’d be going to Panem U together, we signed up as roommates for the dorm, and for the same early June orientation. But I’ve never seen her as chatty as she is for the ten minutes it takes to drive through the ritzy part of town to Seamus Henderson’s house. She and Peeta seem to know each other. At least they seem to know each other better than I realized…
If possible, Seamus’s place is even bigger than Madge’s. More ostentatious too. If the Undersee house is classy, this place screams Too Much Money.
Peeta tells us he’ll be right back and leaves the car running while he walks up to the door to ring the bell.
“Why’d you think I like him?” I ask and Madge snorts.
“Because you get all blushy and flustered around him.”
“I do not,” I protest.
“Well, blushy and flustered for you. And anytime I relayed a question he had about time or plans or even what kind of snacks you might like to have, you answered with ‘Whatever is easiest for Peeta,’” she says and I scowl at her.
“Well he is doing us a huge favor by driving us,” I say. “Gas money is expensive.”
“Hm so you just wanna make it easy on him and conveniently, you’re riding shotgun, where you’ll be the most likely conversation partner and be responsible for his comfort the whole drive,” Madge says and grins at me, then something outside the window catches her eye. “Ugh. Jerk incoming.”
I turn around and sit fairly still as Peeta and Seamus load Seamus’s bags in the trunk, plotting Madge’s demise for manipulating me into this situation.
I almost stop plotting when Seamus drops in the car and asks if Peeta packed any beer as he rummages in the cooler.
“Uh no. Sorry,” Peeta says. I catch Madge rolling her eyes and scooting closer to the window.
“Sup, Undersee. Lookin’ good today.”
“Hi Seamus,” she says.
For a few seconds, I feel bad for Madge in the backseat and grateful that I’m sitting next to Peeta instead. But then Peeta shifts his car into reverse to back down out of Seamus’s driveway and his knuckles brush up against my knee.
I jerk my knee away from his touch.
“Sorry,” he says and turns to look behind him as he backs up and I stare at the side view mirror on my side, watching us roll down the hill towards the street.
“Here,” Peeta says as we’re stopped at a red light. He pulls his phone from a small cubby and holds his thumb on it to wake it, then hands it to me. “Why don’t you pick some music for us?”
“Um,” I stare at the tidy pattern of icons on top of a background of a stunning sunset over the mountains. And I blank. Some of them appear to be folders, labeled by category. Art. Food. School Stuff. Sports. Random Sh**. Music.
I smile slightly at the Random S** and tap on the one for music. And stare at five different apps. “Which one?” I ask helplessly.
“Here,” Madge says, leaning over and pointing to the one called Pandora. I open it but have no idea what I’m looking at.
“You look a little lost there Everdeen. Never seen an iPhone before?”
“Shoot. I forgot,” Peeta says and extends his hand to me. I burn with humiliation as Seamus laughs. The reminder that I have a cheap flip phone still and I’m lucky Mom managed that much for us.
“It’s fine,” Madge says and reaches around me to tap a few things. Music starts playing on the car speakers. One of my favorite bands, actually, and I tuck Peeta’s phone back in its cubby. “I’ll show you on mine when we stop,” Madge says and I nod, biting my lip and scrambling for something I can do.
“You hungry, Peeta?” Madge speaks up and I grab hold of it, turning in my seat to check through the bag I saw there earlier as soon as Peeta says he could eat.
“Wow,” I say after a cursory glance at the food packed in it. “You’ve got a feast in here. What are you in the mood for?”
“Uh, some of the licorice,” he says.
“Good choice,” I say as I grab the package. I turn around, but not before I catch Seamus’s look of disgust.
“Ugh. You eat that garbage, Mellark?”
“It’s way better than the cheap, waxy cherry stuff some people seem to like,” I say as I tear open the package. I peel off a few of the gleaming black, swizzled sticks. And when I look up to hand them to Peeta, he’s smiling at me. Sort of. Just his lips curled up and an odd look in eyes. “Here.”
“Thanks,” he says and takes them from me. Eyes back on the road, he quietly says. “You can have some, too. If you like them. I’ve got two packages in there.”
“Oh. Thanks,” I say and pull one out for myself. Seamus goes back to his game, and Madge is reading a book. Every few minutes, Peeta will shift his hand over towards me and I’ll set a few sticks of licorice in his palm as he asks me a question. Simple stuff, like my major, what classes I’m hoping to register for during our orientation, if I’ve got a dorm room or am living off campus.
At one point, Seaums snores Madge giggles. I turn around and cover my mouth as I snort in laughter when I see she’s decorated him with Pixie Sticks. Shoved them up his nose, in his collar like spikes, even poking out of his hair.
“I’m sorry, is this wrong?” she asks and Peeta chuckles softly.
“Just make sure you get a picture,” he tells her and Madge hands me her phone. This I actually do know how to do, having spent a fair enough amount of time around Madge. I snap a picture of her and Seamus, then one of just him before handing the phone back to her.
Peeta’s grinning at me, and I relax back into my seat. Maybe this road trip won’t be so bad.
#words are peetas thing not mine#everlark fanfic#i don't know what this is#it feels like set up for more is what it feels like#but i'm on a strict no new wips diet#distractionsfromthefood#look at that ask
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