A noodle plank is an excellent exercise for building core strength and stability. The noodle’s flotation properties challenge your balance in a way a regular plank cannot, thus increasing the difficulty and effectiveness of the exercise. After a few reps, you’ll feel your midsection working harder than you thought possible in water.
Begin by placing the pool noodle in the water and put your hands on the noodle, aligning your hands with your shoulders. Be sure to form a straight line from shoulders to ankles, and keep your feet on the pool floor as you push the noodle down to maintain alignment. Engage your core and hold the position for as long as you can, aiming to start with 30 seconds and gradually increasing your time.
The noodle bicycle is a superb swimming pool exercise using a pool noodle because it keeps your heart pumping and legs moving without the joint strain associated with high-impact activities. The resistance provided by the water adds an extra element to your standard bicycle crunch, resulting in stronger leg muscles and a great water-based cardio routine.
Stand in the pool with the noodle under your arms and across your chest. Start moving your legs as if you were riding an invisible bicycle. Focus on pushing and pulling the water with your legs. Move with a quick and steady pace to maintain your heart rate, transforming the bike ride into a cardio-blasting workout.
Maintaining balance in the water already demands a heightened sense of body awareness. With the pool noodle, you can focus your efforts on the movements and not just on staying afloat. It’s a simple exercise, yet it yields significant benefits for stability and control, which can translate to better performance in other activities outside the pool.
With both hands on the noodle, stand in the pool on one leg, lifting your other leg toward your chest. Hold this position for 10–15 seconds, or as long as you feel comfortable, then switch legs and repeat. This exercise is designed to enhance your balance and coordination.
The noodle push and pull is a great way to build upper body strength. This workout is akin to using resistance bands in a gym, except the water offers a more uniform resistance throughout the movements.
Standing with the noodle in front of you, push it underwater and then pull it back up. Use the resistance of the water to strengthen your arms and chest. This exercise is particularly beneficial for upper body strength. Perform sets of 10–15 pushes and pulls, aiming for controlled and deliberate motions.
Pool noodle exercises are not only a lot of fun, but they also provide a challenging workout for all fitness levels. At Honor Trading Company, we offer clamp-on foam noodles in bulk that are perfect for water-based exercises. Our clamp-on foam noodles have dense padding and durable construction, so you can use them for a variety of fitness activities. Browse our selection today to find your ideal pool exercise equipment.
]]>Pool noodle water aerobics isn’t just for fitness enthusiasts. Seniors can benefit greatly from the gentle resistance of water. This low-impact exercise helps to maintain mobility, flexibility, and cardiovascular health.
Seniors can perform pool noodle chair exercises on land, making fitness accessible to those with limited mobility. While water aerobics with pool noodles can offer a full-body workout, exercise chair routines utilize the noodles for stretching, toning, and improving circulation, all while remaining seated.
Safety at home is essential for seniors. For example, fitting a pool noodle around the edge of the bed frame creates a soft barrier that can prevent bumps and bruises.
Additionally, cutting a pool noodle and placing it along the edges of tables or countertops can provide cushioning in areas where a senior might lose balance. These DIY projects demonstrate the ingenious flexibility and cost-effectiveness of pool noodles in a home safety context.
Cognitive stimulation is another way seniors can use pool noodles. Pool noodles offer a unique canvas for creativity that extends into the realm of mental exercises. For instance, they can cut pool noodles into various shapes and sizes and make sculptures!
The bright colors of a pool noodle can also help with memory—associating different colors with tasks or objects can aid in recall. By creating visual memory aids with the noodles, seniors can support cognitive function.
There’s an artist in everyone, and seniors can use pool noodles for a variety of crafts, from holiday decorations to personal accessories. They can even repurpose the noodles as gardening tool grips, providing a comfortable hold if they suffer from arthritis or weak hands. Then, they can continue doing what they love—tending to a garden! By engaging in creative projects that incorporate pool noodles, seniors can feel a sense of accomplishment, which is essential for mental well-being.
The adaptability and simplicity of pool noodles make them goldmines for enhancing daily living in numerous ways. They embody the spirit of making the most out of what we have, a valuable lesson at any age.
At Honor Trading Company, we offer solid pool noodles in bulk, so you can easily stock up on your favorite foam tubes. We provide high-quality noodles you’re sure to love, whether you use one in the pool or as a fun crafting material. Browse our selection to find the perfect options for your needs today.
]]>If you relish the art of home crafting and enjoy a good challenge, you should start experimenting with pool noodles. From the thrill of gathering the materials to the joy of watching your rockets soar, each step will bring you closer to becoming the neighborhood rocket scientist. What are you waiting for? It’s time to grab your supplies and learn how to make a pool noodle rocket flinger.
Before you can launch your rocket skyward, you must gather a few DIY crafting and home goods items. To kick off your pool noodle rocket flinger creation, you’ll need:
Don’t forget to add basic tools like duct tape, scissors, and a measuring tape to your shopping list if you don’t have them already. These will be your trusty companions throughout the project, ensuring your flinger takes shape with precision and power.
The heart of the rocket flinger, the pool noodle, is transformed in this step. With your serrated knife in hand and your eye on the end goal, delicately cut the noodle to a manageable size. Keep in mind that the flinger’s base should be wide enough for stability but narrow enough to house the launch tube snugly.
Remember to measure twice and cut once—precision is key. If you don’t have a serrated knife available, you can use a box cutter to cut the foam noodle.
The launch tube is where the magic really happens. Using your PVC pipes, construct a sturdy launch tube that fits the size of your noodle. PVC adhesives will seal the connections, preventing any air leaks and ensuring a powerful push for your rocket. As fluid dynamics come into play, optimize the tube’s angles and length for maximum propulsion.
The pool noodle rocket flinger’s power hinges on the strength of its rubber bands. Secure the bands along the length of your launch tube in a crisscross pattern, like strings on a bow. This tension will serve as your rocket’s launch fuel, providing the force that lifts it to the skies.
It’s important to handle the rubber bands with care. Once attached, they represent the energy source that will make your rocket soar.
Crafting the launcher arm is a true test of your DIY prowess. Use sturdy materials such as wood or metal to build an arm that can withstand the pressure of the rubber bands.
Make hinges at the pivot point so that the launcher arm can be raised and, more importantly, released. If your launcher arm is balanced, it’s more likely to work properly. A well-constructed arm can make the difference between a rocket launch and a premature fling.
This step involves connecting the launcher arm to the base and launch tube with precision and stability in mind. The arm should move smoothly, and the connection points must be secure. By the end of this step, your flinger should take shape and be ready for the testing phase.
With your pool noodle rocket flinger assembled, it’s time for the moment of truth. Load a rocket into the launch tube, pull back the arm, and let it fly! Observe the trajectory, the lift, and the overall performance. From small adjustments to significant overhauls, refine your flinger until it operates optimally.
Trial and error are essential components of the DIY process, allowing you to watch your creation evolve and improve with every launch. Kids will love experimenting with the rocket launcher to see how far they can get their rockets to fly.
The final step in knowing how to make a pool noodle rocket flinger is to make sure everyone is enjoying pure, unadulterated fun. Gather friends and family, share in the wonder of your homemade pool noodle masterpiece, and let your rockets soar. There is no better feeling than the combination of accomplishment and amusement.
In this world that constantly demands efficiency and practicality, taking the time to revel in playful projects reminds us of the joy found in creation. As you relish the finished product, you can bask in the glow of a job done well—of learning, building, and sharing an experience that you and your family accomplished together.
Crafting a pool noodle rocket flinger is more than a summertime project; it’s a manifestation of creativity, curiosity, and the unbridled joy of childhood innovation. As a DIY enthusiast, you know that the process itself is as rewarding as the outcome, if not more. With patience, perseverance, and a sprinkle of ingenuity, even the most ordinary items can be repurposed into extraordinary treasures.
Whether this activity sparks new ideas for your DIY repertoire or simply serves as a delightful diversion, building a rocket flinger can teach you several lessons. Namely, embracing the art of creation, reveling in the joy of play, and never underestimating the power of imagination, even in the most unlikely of places.
At Honor Trading Company, we sell an impressive assortment of large pool noodles that are ideal for creating your very own rocket launcher. With so many colors to choose from, you can easily find the perfect option for your creative endeavors.
Additionally, our pool noodles come in bulk, so you can use them for a variety of fun craft projects you and your kids will love. Contact us today to stock up on high-quality pool noodles that are perfect for the water and beyond.
]]>Boot stands made from pool noodles are a handy way to save space. To make these stands, start by cutting the pool noodles into sections that are slightly taller than your boots. Then, slit these sections down the center, allowing for a secure yet gentle grip that won’t damage the boots. Slide the prepared pool noodle pieces into boots to hold them in place, maintaining their shape and effectively using less space than traditional stands.
Fashioning hangers from pool noodles is a project that anyone can successfully complete. To begin, gather some sturdy wire hangers and two pool noodles. Cut the pool noodles into sections and slit them lengthwise, then slide these onto the hanger arms to create a vertical storage solution for your long boots. Not only does this method save you space, but it also keeps your boots organized, visible, and in good shape, thanks to their hanging position that prevents folds and creases.
A quick guide to storing your boots using pool noodles isn’t complete without mentioning boot inserts. Inserts are fantastic for maintaining the shape of your boots and preventing those pesky creases that form when boots are piled on top of each other or not stored upright.
To create the inserts, you’ll only need a knife and appropriately sized pool noodles. Measure the length and width of the space within the boots and cut the pool noodles accordingly so they fit snugly inside. The noodles can be cut to the height of the boot shaft or higher, depending on the type of boot, providing a tailored solution for different styles.
Each of these pool noodle methods offers a unique solution to the classic issue of boot storage. With a bit of effort and creativity, you’ll soon be reveling in a closet that marries function and style seamlessly. At Honor Trading Company, you can buy pool noodles in bulk for all your footwear storage needs. With so many pool noodle colors to choose from, it’s easy to find an option that satisfies your intended use. Browse our selection today to create your favorite shoe storage hacks.
]]>Crafting isn’t just about creating art; it’s about personal expression and developing a story with every item made. As interest in unique, one-of-a-kind accessories continues to rise, more people are turning to crafts to express their personal styles. Pool noodle accessories are a testament to this growing movement, offering a playful yet chic alternative to store-bought jewelry.
Bracelets are beautiful wearable accessories you can make out of pool noodles. Not only are they easy to make, but they also add a pop of color to any ensemble. Start by slicing the noodles into thin, round cylinders, then apply your choice of craft tape or paint for a personalized touch.
Add a splash of glam with beads, sequins, or other trinkets. The result is a stack of waterproof, child-friendly bracelets perfect for the poolside or a picnic in the park.
For a stylish yet practical statement piece, the pool noodle headband is a crowd-pleaser. With efficiency and comfort in mind, carefully cut the noodles to the desired width and join the ends with an appropriate adhesive. From there, choose your fabric—from a snazzy pattern to a plush velvet—and secure it around the noodle.
If you want to add a bit more pizzazz, adorn your headband with fake flowers, feathers, or a simple bow to suit any occasion. Since pool noodles are made of foam, your hair accessory will be comfortable, lightweight, and stylish.
The pool noodle necklace is a favorite thanks to its versatility. Cutting the noodles into larger sections allows for different necklace styles, from chunky chokers to longer strands with layered colors. To add a professional finish, use a metal loop and clasp, and pick a thread or chain that complements your design.
For a personalized look, experiment with fabric scraps, ribbons, or multicolored noodle pieces. Your rainbow necklace will surely become a conversation starter every time you wear it.
Pool noodle earrings are surprisingly lightweight and easy on the ears. By slicing the noodles into thin discs and punching a hole in each center, these make for the perfect base to string through wire loops or hooks.
Finish the discs with a splash of paint, glitter, or embroidery thread for an intricate woven look. These eco-chic earrings are not only a fashion statement but a great way to start a conversation on sustainability in style.
If you’re looking for a pool noodle company offering a wide range of foam noodles for your jewelry-making needs, visit Honor Trading Company. We offer pool noodles in an array of beautiful colors so you can easily find what you’re looking for. Check out our selection to expand your crafting horizons and create one-of-a-kind wearable accessories.
]]>If your party has a specific theme, such as a pool party or a garden soiree, you can instantly set the mood with the right decor. Luckily, you don’t need to break the bank to create the party decorations of your dreams. In fact, you can use inexpensive materials to fill your space with beauty. Continue reading to learn how to DIY a party backdrop from pool noodles.
If you’ve never made a party backdrop before or you haven’t seen one at a celebration, you may be wondering what it is. In short, party backdrops are the focal point of any gathering. You’ll often see a backdrop behind a cake table, but they can also stand on their own. Many people use a backdrop as a great photo opportunity—when you stand in front of the backdrop, it’s easy to add a festive touch to any photo.
Backdrops can even be used to strategically hide things you don’t want your guests to see. For example, if you’re transforming an empty event space, there may be wiring or an unsightly HVAC system you’ll want to disguise. Once you construct a backdrop and place it in front of the unattractive items, it’s easy to create a cohesive look and feel in your party space.
Additionally, since party backdrops typically cover a significant amount of space, you can decorate a large room without feeling overwhelmed. Party decor can quickly add up when you’re working with a blank slate, and a large-scale backdrop makes a big impact without needing to invest a lot of money. If you’re on a budget but you don’t want to skimp on decorations, a DIY party backdrop is a great solution.
Perhaps one of the most important benefits of a backdrop is the ability to customize it however you please. You can also add personalized touches to your event décor to tie all the pieces together. As mentioned above, if your party has a certain theme, a backdrop is a great way to bring your vision to life.
There are many materials and design styles available for backdrops, so the options are virtually endless. Before your celebration, take some time to brainstorm how you want your venue to look. Since a backdrop is often the focal point of your space, it’s important to choose a design that sparks joy. By creating your own backdrop, you can ensure you have a one-of-a-kind piece of party decor.
If you’re interested in having a photobooth at your event, knowing how to DIY a party backdrop from pool noodles is essential. With just a few simple materials, you can create a fun, colorful spot for your guests to take plenty of party photos.
To create this type of backdrop, you’ll need enough pool noodles to achieve the desired width of your backdrop. The larger the space you need to fill, the more noodles you’ll need. In addition to pool noodles, you’ll need 16 gauge bendable wire.
The first step is to lay out your pool noodles in the order that you want them to be displayed. Next, you’ll need to cut a few pieces of wire approximately four inches longer than the length of your backdrop. Poke the wire through the foam tubes and begin threading a piece through the top, middle, and bottom sections of each noodle. For the top and bottom sections, the wire should be about two to three inches from the end of the noodle.
While you’re threading the wire, you’ll want to squeeze the noodles together to essentially create a foam wall. Once every wire has been threaded, leave two inches of wire on either end of the backdrop and wrap it around the backs of the two side noodles. To hang your photobooth backdrop, tie a ribbon or rope around the extra wire and attach it to a wall using non-permanent hooks.
Once your backdrop is assembled, you’ll have a perfect place to take photos throughout your party. To make the space even more fun, purchase some silly props and let your imagination run wild. Keep in mind you can customize your backdrop with different foam noodle colors, as well as other types of decorations like streamers and balloons.
Flowers instantly elevate any event, so it only makes sense to create a beautiful floral backdrop for your gathering. Your guests will love walking into the party and immediately seeing a stunning arrangement of cheerful flowers. You can even use silk flowers to keep costs down.
To create the floral backdrop of your dreams, you’ll need pool noodles, assorted flowers, a utility knife, zip ties or pipe cleaners, and a backdrop structure. For this project, it’s best to purchase a metal backdrop frame that has a crossbar.
To start, you’ll need to make a lengthwise cut through the middle of the pool noodle using a utility knife so the noodle can wrap around your structure. You can then slide the noodle onto the metal beam and secure it using zip ties or pipe cleaners. Then, poke the stems of your flowers into the foam noodles until they’re covered according to your preference. It’s a good idea to cut the stems of the flowers before adding them to the noodles so they don’t stick out too far. Although silk flowers are the most economical option, you can also mix in a few fresh stems for added dimension and elegance.
Garlands are another great way to add a pop of color and whimsy to your party decor. Luckily, you can make one long garland or several smaller ones using trusty pool noodles. The only materials you need for this DIY craft are assorted pool noodles and a serrated knife.
The first step is to use the knife to cut each pool noodle into approximately one-inch rings. The garland looks best if all the rings are the same size, so you can either eyeball your measurements or use a ruler. Next, you’ll need to use your knife to make a slit through one side of each ring so you can create a chain using the pool noodle segments. Use the slits to insert one ring into the other until you’ve reached your desired chain length. When you’re ready to hang your garland, simply use some double-sided tape or string to adhere it to a wall.
At Honor Trading Company, we offer high-quality pool noodles in bulk for all your crafting needs. We have a variety of colors to choose from, including white foam noodles, so you can easily find the best option for your decorating needs. When you want to create an unforgettable DIY party backdrop, we can help make your vision come to life.
]]>If you work in an elementary school, spelling is likely a focus of your curriculum. Luckily, you can use foam noodles to help your students practice their spelling skills.
To begin, use a serrated knife or a boxcutter to cut the pool noodles into equal size rings. Then, use a permanent marker to write one letter on each ring—be sure to include plenty of vowels. Once each ring has a letter, your students can thread the pieces onto a ruler or wooden dowel.
Stringing letters together helps your students practice their spelling skills and create words. This type of exercise is also beneficial if you’re learning about the difference between uppercase and lowercase letters. Write the uppercase version of a letter on one ring and the lowercase version of a letter on a different ring. Then, ask your students to match the little letters to the big letters.
Another clever way to use pool noodles in your classroom is to create and identify patterns. First, you’ll need to gather pool noodles in a variety of colors. As described above, slice the noodles using a knife to make individual rings.
Students can thread the different color rings onto a ruler or dowel to create unique patterns. When you provide a variety of pool noodle colors, your students will have fun creating elaborate sequences. For younger children, you can first create a pattern and then have them copy it by using their own foam noodle pieces.
Looking for an affordable way to add some color and whimsy to your classroom? A pool noodle garland is a great choice. Gather pool noodles in a variety of colors and use a knife to create even slices. Then, simply string the slices onto a thick piece of twine.
Once you’ve created your desired pattern, you can use removable adhesive hooks to hang the garland from your classroom’s ceiling or walls. You can also layer several garlands to create a fun, colorful effect. Plus, since pool noodle garlands are made of foam, you won’t need to worry about your students accidentally knocking them off the wall and getting injured.
Pool noodles can also be used for fun art activities such as stamp crafts. Take a pool noodle and cut it into pieces long enough for your students to comfortably hold. Students can dip the pieces in paint to create an assortment of designs on a piece of cardstock or construction paper.
Once the paint is dry, your students can decorate their stamped papers with markers and other art supplies. Your kids will love using foam noodles to create apples, snowmen, or something completely imaginary!
Honor Trading Company sells black pool noodles in bulk, as well as a variety of other colors. If you need foam tubes for your classroom, be sure to check out our vast selection—we can help you find the perfect option for your educational needs.
]]>If you have children in preschool, paint stamping is a fun, engaging activity. To create the stamp, use a utility knife to cut your foam noodle into rings. Then, pour different colors of tempera paint onto a plate. Your child can either dip the ring into the paint or use a brush to apply it.
Using the paint-covered ring, your child can stamp a piece of cardstock. Then, based on the paint’s color, use a marker to turn the stamps into a variety of fun shapes, including an apple, snowman, or smiley face. For example, you can help your child turn a red stamp into an apple by adding a stem and a leaf.
Another creative DIY pool noodle craft for kids is creating an oversized game of tic-tac-toe. To begin, you’ll need to make your game pieces. Using a utility knife, cut 1-inch pieces for your o’s and 5-inch long pieces for your x’s. Once you’ve cut the x’s to the appropriate length, you’ll need to cut them in half, and then in half again.
Place one strip on top of the other and use a hot glue gun to stick the x’s together. Then, use sidewalk chalk to draw a giant tic-tac-toe board outside. Using your foam noodle game pieces, you can enjoy hours of fun with your family.
If your little one is learning their letters or loves to practice their spelling skills, a pool noodle alphabet basket is a great idea. Use a knife to cut the pool noodle into 26 rings. Using a permanent marker, write one letter on each ring. You can choose to write uppercase or lowercase letters, depending on your child’s skills.
Throw the rings into a basket, mix them up, and have your child pull out a ring and identify the letter. Then, you can use the rings to create words, spell your kid’s name, identify letters that have sticks and curves, and more. Pool noodle letter rings are an easy way for your child to learn and practice alphabet basics.
Did you know you can turn a pool noodle into a beautiful seasonal wreath? Bend the noodle into a circle and use several layers of packing tape to secure the ends. Then, you can decorate the foam ring however you please.
For a summer theme, use brightly colored faux flower picks and stick them into the foam to make a floral masterpiece. You can also wrap the pool noodle in streamers for a festive touch. Once you’ve finished making your wreath, hang it on your door for all to see.
At Honor Trading Company, we sell high-quality pool noodles in bulk for all your crafting needs. We have a wide variety of colors, including green pool noodles, so you can easily find the best option for your next DIY project. Check out our selection today!
]]>One of the most important aspects of swimming is learning how to float. Once you’re confident floating in the water, you can work on other fundamental skills. As mentioned above, pool noodles are excellent flotation devices, so your child can easily use one to bob around the pool.
To help them float, simply place the pool noodle under both of your child’s armpits and let their arms hang over the top of the noodle. While your child is exploring the water, you can teach them the importance of keeping their body above water to avoid sinking. Since pool noodles can help a person float vertically and horizontally, your child should be comfortable in both positions.
Another way pool noodles can help your kids learn pool safety is by aiding them as they learning how to tread water. Like floating, the ability to tread water is essential to prevent drowning. To practice treading water, your child should use the pool noodle to assume a vertical position. Once upright, they can kick their legs to ensure their head stays above water.
This sequence will prepare your little one to start treading water without the noodle. Once they feel confident, you can take away the foam noodle and have them tread water with their arms as well. If your child is proficient in treading water, you’ll have much more peace of mind in terms of overall safety.
Kicking is an incredibly important element of pool safety because your child won’t be able to glide through the water without moving their legs. Once again, a pool noodle can provide some much-needed support.
With the noodle under your child’s armpits, they should practice floating their body in a horizontal position. While floating on their stomach, they can use a flutter kick technique to move their legs and feet. Once they’re ready to let go of the noodle, they’ll understand the basic leg movements for a freestyle stroke.
Additionally, your little one can do a back float by placing the noodle under their neck for support. While floating, your child should kick their legs to mimic the movements needed for a backstroke.
When your child is learning how to swim and safely operate in a pool, a foam noodle from Honor Trading Company is invaluable for them. We offer bulk noodles in a variety of colors, including red foam noodles, so that you can easily spot your child in the water. Browse our selection today to help your little one become a proficient swimmer.
]]>Do you have a green thumb? If you love tending to your garden and nurturing your flowers and plants, you can help them grow with pool noodles! Using pool noodles for certain gardening tasks can even save you money. Learn why all plant parents need pool noodles in their lives.
If you have large planters, you know they require several bags of potting soil to fill them. By padding the bottom of your planters with one or more foam noodles, you can save money on soil! The foam is incredibly malleable and easy to manipulate in small spaces.
Once you know what planter you’ll use, coil the pool noodle in a way that doesn’t block the drainage hole. Once you create the perfect shape, push the noodle to the bottom of the planter. If you’re using a skinny noodle, you may need to stack two on top of each other to fill the space. Make sure there’s enough room in the middle of the pot for your plant! Then, fill the container with soil, leaving room for the roots and dirt ball. Place the plant in the center, pack more soil to completely cover the roots and the foam, and you’re good to go! Pool noodles are great for filling large planters without spending an arm and a leg on soil.
Another reason why all plant parents need pool noodles in their lives is for protection from the sharp edges of a plant cage or chicken wire enclosure. Pool noodles make great bumpers. If you’re working in your garden, you don’t want to be scraped by wires. Adding foam tubing does the trick!
To create a bumper, use a sharp knife to make a lengthwise cut halfway down the noodle. Then, place the opening of the noodle on top of your plant cage or anywhere else with sharp wiring. The foam will allow you to freely roam your garden without worrying about scratching yourself on the wires. Plus, the colorful pool noodles add whimsy to your garden!
You can use pool noodles to support your plants. If you’re accustomed to using wooden stakes for propping up your plants, try using a pool noodle instead! With a sharp knife, make a lengthwise cut halfway into the noodle. Then, fit the noodle around the base of the plant. With the support of the foam, your plant will continue to grow upright.
As your plant grows taller, you can add another section of a pool noodle for support. To create an eye-catching garden, consider using several pool noodle colors. Every time you look outside, you’ll smile at your colorful garden and rest easy knowing your plants are growing tall.
Honor Trading Company offers pool noodles in a wide variety of colors, including yellow pool noodles, to help you create a vibrant garden. Check out our selection to find the perfect way to take your space to the next level!
]]>You know winter can be a particularly brutal time of year if you live in a cold climate. With mounds of snow, unrelenting wind gusts, and biting frost that cuts straight to the bone, winter isn’t for the faint of heart. Any cold weather connoisseur also knows it’s time to spring into action when temperatures drop to dangerously low levels.
Namely, you must prevent frozen water pipes. Frozen pipes are prone to bursting, so it’s essential to properly winterize your home to avoid costly water damage. In this guide to preventing frozen pipes this winter, we’ll discuss actionable steps you can take to keep your home protected when the weather outside is frightful.
Before we discuss how to prevent frozen pipes, it’s important to understand why pipe freezing is dangerous. Water expands as it freezes. Thus, frozen water puts a great deal of pressure on both metal and plastic pipes.
The expanding water can eventually cause your pipes to break—regardless of the strength of the container. A broken pipe results in a lot of interior damage to your home. You know standing water is a homeowner’s worst enemy if your basement has ever flooded.
Some pipes in your home are more likely to freeze than others. For example, exterior piping, including swimming pool supply lines, lawn sprinkler lines, and outdoor hose bibs, risk exposure to extreme cold. Water supply pipes in unheated interior areas are also prone to freezing. Common examples include basements and crawl spaces, kitchen cabinets, attics, and garages. Lastly, any pipe that runs against your home’s exterior walls is susceptible to freezing because those walls have little or no insulation.
Once you’ve identified the most vulnerable pipes in your home, it will be easier to protect them during a cold snap. The expanding water could cause these pipes to flood your home and result in major damage if you fail to take precautionary measures.
It’s time to spring into action and protect your pipes as much as possible if the weather forecast calls for winter storms. Begin by opening doors and cabinets that contain a pipe. Doing so will ensure warm air can circulate evenly throughout your home.
As mentioned before, you should pay special attention to any pipes that run against your home’s exterior walls. For instance, be sure to open the drawer or cabinet below the sink to allow the pipe to access the heat if your primary bathroom is at the back of your house.
Don’t forget to remove any household chemicals before opening the doors if you have small children or pets. Many homeowners store cleaning supplies below their kitchen or bathroom sinks, so you don’t want little hands or paws getting into potentially dangerous items.
Have you ever been in someone’s house during the winter months and observed a small drip emerging from their faucets? You may have been confused at first, but that tiny trickle is an important way to prevent frozen pipes. Even the smallest stream of water can prevent ice from forming.
Thus, allow your faucets served by exposed pipes to drip when the temperatures are unbearably cold. Keep in mind you don’t need to turn on faucets with connections to interior pipes because they will benefit from the heat circulation in your home. You also relieve some pipe pressure when you drip your faucets. With decreased pressure, it’s less likely that the water inside will freeze and cause the pipe to burst.
A guide to preventing frozen pipes this winter wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the importance of temperature control. It’s best to set your thermostat to the same temperature throughout the day and night to keep your pipes happy. You might decrease your thermostat overnight or when you’re not at home to save money on your gas bill. Although this is a good idea in normal weather, it can be harmful during bitterly cold periods.
It's important to maintain a steady temperature to prevent ice from accumulating in your pipes. Additionally, you want to avoid lowering your thermostat too much if you’ll be away for an extended period. It might be tempting to crank down the temperature to save money on your utility bill if you’re a snowbird escaping the weather for a few weeks or months. However, you run the risk of returning to a house full of frozen pipes if your thermostat is set to less than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Insulating your home’s vulnerable pipes is an easy and inexpensive way to prevent them from freezing. Like opening doors and cabinets and letting your faucets drip, insulating your pipes provides another warm method of protection. You create a buffer against frigid temperatures by covering the outside of vulnerable pipes with an extra layer of foam insulation.
Focus on insulating the pipes located in unheated areas of your home, such as the basement, garage, attic, or crawl space. You can also insulate the pipes under your kitchen or bathroom sinks if the weather is uncharacteristically cold.
As mentioned above, a liberal amount of foam insulation works well. You can also wrap your pipes in heat tape, thermostat-controlled heat cables, or even foam pool noodles. Pool noodles look a lot like pipe insulators in shape and size, and luckily, they perform the same function. Closed cell foam tubing is the ideal type of pool noodle to use due to its durable construction. Plus, you can buy clamp noodles that have an opening where you can clamp the noodle around the pipe and secure it with strong duct tape.
Honor Trading Company sells a variety of regular pool noodles ideal for pipe insulation if you don’t have clamp noodles. Simply measure the length you need for the pipe and use a pocketknife or box cutter to cut the noodle to equal length. Next, cut a vertical slice down one side of the noodle to create a pipe clamp. Doing so allows you to easily place the foam noodle over your pipe, making it fit like a glove. Using a pool noodle to insulate your pipes is a simple and inexpensive way to ensure you protect your home during brutal winter weather.
The next time your local temperature is reminiscent of Antarctica, refer to these handy tips and tricks to prevent frozen pipes. With a bit of forethought and planning, you can prevent any unexpected, costly damage to your home during the winter season.
]]>Pool noodles can be useful for so many purposes around the house. To maximize the benefits of these colorful foam tubes, check out the pool noodle hacks you must know for your outdoor living. With a bit of creativity, pool noodles can make outdoor maintenance more effective and even enjoyable.
If you frequently use a ladder to access your roof or to clean your gutters, this pool noodle hack is for you! A metal ladder can scrape your home’s siding or disrupt your gutters when it’s leaning against your house. To prevent damage, use a razor blade to cut a pool noodle into two equal-sized pieces. Then, make a horizontal cut on one side of the pool noodle and repeat the process with the other.
Once each piece has a slit on one side, you’ll be able to slide it over the metal frame of your ladder. The pressure of the pool noodle will hold each piece in place. After securing the bumpers for your ladder, you can place it against the side of your house without worrying about scraping.
Another pool noodle hack for outdoor living is transforming a garden rake into a squeegee. You’ll need to use a razor blade to cut the pool noodle the length of your rake. Then, make a horizontal slice on one side of the noodle. Place the noodle over the prongs of the rake, secure it with two to three zip ties, and you have a squeegee!
Use the squeegee to remove excess water from your driveway, patio, or porch. You can also stay on top of low spots that cause pooling water around your property. Additionally, you could place a pool noodle over the end of the rake for protection. You won’t worry about accidentally stepping on the rake and injuring your foot because the noodle will cover the sharp edges.
If you spend a lot of time planting flowers or maintaining your outdoor garden, you know it can be rough on your hands, shoulders, and back. Luckily, a pool noodle can make the process a bit more comfortable by adding an extra-wide grip to your gardening tools’ handles. Cut the pool noodle to the length of the handle, add a horizontal slice to one side, and slide the noodle over the handle. You won’t need to use zip ties to secure the noodle because it will naturally conform to the shape of the handle.
Once you have a cushion for your gardening tools, say goodbye to painful blisters and soreness from gripping the handle. You can pull weeds or move the dirt in your garden with ease. Since you cut the noodle to the exact length you need, this hack works for any type of tool with a long handle–gardening or otherwise!
With so many useful foam noodle applications, you should stock up on Honor Trading Company’s clamp-on pool noodles for all your outdoor living needs. They are made from dense foam, so they offer superior padding and durability. Check out our vast selection today!
]]>If you have a pile of pool noodles collecting dust in your garage or storage shed, you may be wondering how to dispose of them. Since pool noodles are made from foam, you might wonder if they belong in the trash or the recycling bin. Let’s explore the most eco-friendly ways to throw away pool noodles so you can make the best decision for the environment.
The first step in determining how to dispose of your foam tubes is to learn whether they’re recyclable or not. Pool noodles are usually made from polyethylene foam, which has a resin code of four and is technically recyclable. Polyethylene foam is a thermoplastic, so it can be melted down using a specialized foam melting machine. The resulting substance can be used to make a new set of products.
However, your local recycling facility is likely not equipped with this machinery, so many foam noodles do not end up in recycling facilities. Although recycling your pool noodles is not an entirely straightforward process, it is possible. Do some research to learn about any facilities in your area that accept polyethylene foam. If you find one, you can drop off your noodles and pat yourself on the back for not harming the environment.
Since pool noodles are not easily recyclable, it’s important to find alternative ways to maximize their lifespan. One of the most eco-friendly ways to throw away pool noodles is to not throw them away at all! Once you’re ready to part with your noodle, donate it to a friend, family member, or neighbor. If the foam is still in good condition, they can enjoy it for many years.
Due to their construction, foam tubes can endure continuous use without losing their cushioning properties or buoyancy. To prevent pool noodles from ending up in a landfill, use them as long as possible. Once you no longer have use for them, pass them on to someone else.
Did you know you can use pool noodles for more than just floating in the water? They are great for garage organization, cleaning aids, crafting projects, and even wedding décor! The next time you think about throwing away a foam noodle, consider how to repurpose it instead.
If you don’t want to repurpose your pool noodles, donate them to an organization that can use them. Most schools or community centers will gladly accept secondhand noodles for crafts, exercise aids, or other purposes. By finding a way to repurpose your pool noodles, you can promote sustainability and slow the expansion of landfills.
At Honor Trading Company, we offer solid foam noodles in many colors and stock only the highest quality foam, so you can be confident in our products. Our solid-core foam noodles are stiff and buoyant, and you can use them for many applications. Browse our extensive selection today!
]]>Pool noodles are fun toys to use in the water, but did you know they can also make it easier to clean your house? For most people, cleaning is not the most enjoyable activity, so it’s nice to know there are ways to simplify the process. This mom’s guide to cleaning with a pool noodle will outline a few ways you can use a foam tube to make your home sparkle and shine.
In today’s electronics-focused world, almost everyone has a million cords scattered around the house. These cords can be unsightly and create unwanted visual clutter. Luckily, you can use a pool noodle to efficiently organize your cords.
Use an electric knife or a serrated kitchen knife to cut the pool noodle into smaller pieces. Then, slice the pieces down the center to create an opening. You can easily tuck a cord into the opening of each foam piece. Instead of staring at a tangled jumble of cords on the floor, you can keep the wires neatly tucked into a sliced pool noodle.
Our guide to cleaning with a pool noodle wouldn’t be complete without highlighting the vacuum extender. By placing one end of the noodle over your vacuum’s hose, you can easily grab items that are wedged in hard-to-reach places. To make the extender more manageable, you can cut the pool noodle to a shorter length before placing it on the end of your vacuum.
If your pet hides their toys behind your bed or your child drops items off the back of the couch, a vacuum extender makes your life easier. You don’t need to become a contortionist to keep your house clean. Instead, let an ingenious pool noodle vacuum extender do the work for you.
Water is an essential component of any successful cleaning spree, but lifting a heavy bucket full of water is difficult. Plus, if you’re cleaning the bathtub, it can be almost impossible to step over the ledge with a weighty bucket.
Luckily, there’s an easy way to fill your container without lifting it. Simply place a pool noodle under the faucet in your bathroom or kitchen, and let the water drain into a bucket sitting on the floor. This is a great way to avoid lifting heavy objects that can strain your knees and back. Since a thorough cleaning job requires a fair amount of physical exertion, every little bit of assistance helps.
With so many creative ways to use pool noodles, do yourself a favor and ensure you always have several on hand. Honor Trading Company offers a wide variety of big pool noodles with large diameters, so you can easily use them for your favorite cleaning hacks. Shop our selection and stock up on versatile pool noodles today!
]]>Pool noodles are a fun toy to use in bodies of water, but they also have many other unexpected uses. The possibilities are seemingly endless for these colorful foam tubes, from DIY holiday decorations to a classroom learning aid.
You can use pool noodles to make fun crafts and pieces of decor to display in your home, but did you know they’re also incredibly useful if you’re a quilter? A pool noodle makes the basting process much easier when you’re creating a quilt. Let’s explore how you can baste a quilt using pool noodles, so you can create a beautiful, wrinkle-free quilt every time.
Before we dive into how you can use pool noodles to baste, we must discuss the basting process in general. Basting is a very important step in the quilting process that you must complete with thought and care. Although it can be tedious, your complete quilt will have a very professional appearance if you take your time to properly baste.
The basting, or piecing, step comes before you make your quilt top and start quilting. Basting is essentially the process of making a quilt sandwich by layering the backing, batting, and top layer of your quilt. Neatly aligning all three layers seems like an easy task in theory, but it can be quite difficult.
It can be hard to avoid wrinkles and pleats when you’re working with several layers of fabric. However, it’s important to keep lumps and bumps at bay because your quilt will not be smooth once you start quilting if the basting layer isn’t flush. And nobody likes a bumpy quilt!
Thread basting, spray basting, and pin basting are the three most common types of basting. Each method has its pros and cons, so let’s discuss the options in depth.
As the name implies, thread basting uses long stitches of thread to hold the quilt sandwich together. You can make the stitches by hand or with a longarm sewing machine. Once basting is complete and you begin the quilting process, you will gradually remove each stitch.
As you can imagine, thread basting can be a very time-consuming process if you have a large quilt. Basting with thread is traditional, but quilting’s evolution has caused this method to become less common.
Spray basting is another way to prepare your quilt for the quilting process. This method requires you to spray a temporary glue onto your quilt to adhere the three layers of fabric together. Many quilters choose to use an aerosol spray baste you can find at your local arts and crafts store. Although buying a basting spray at the store is a fast and easy solution, it can also be a pain to use.
Firstly, spray bastes can be expensive. You may need to spend quite a bit of money to have the proper amount of fixative if you’re working on a large quilt. Secondly, spray bastes often have a distinct odor that can be very off-putting to some people. Be sure to use the spray in a well-ventilated area. Thirdly, like any aerosol, precision is difficult. You’ll often need to address overspray that can coat your work area.
Consider making spray baste using water, salt, flour, and rubbing alcohol. Although the process takes longer, you’ll be saving money over time. Plus, the homemade version still prevents pleats and wrinkles from forming throughout your quilt.
Pin basting is generally the most common basting method. Pin basting uses safety pins to hold the backing, batting, and top layer together using safety pins. As you quilt, you simply remove the pins. Since safety pins are easily accessible, this method is both simple and cost-effective.
Due to its simplicity, pin basting is often the first basting method new quilters try. Although you don’t need any special supplies and the process is quite straightforward, it’s not without flaws. Namely, it can be difficult to ensure your quilt doesn’t have any pleats or wrinkles when you’re placing so many pins. Plus, pinning on such a wide surface can be tedious and fatigue your hands and fingers over time.
Now that you’re familiar with the typical basting methods, it’s time to learn how you can baste a quilt using pool noodles. The good news is, that this method only requires a few simple materials, so you won’t need to spend a lot of time or money.
The materials you need for pool noodle basting include:
Once you’ve gathered your supplies, it’s time to start basting. Be sure to allow yourself plenty of room to spread out and manipulate the fabric. Since the process involves spray baste, you’ll also want to be in a well-ventilated room.
Roll the quilt top, quilt back, and batting onto the pool noodle. You’ll need to pin the edge of the backing along the pool noodle in several places. Be sure the right side of the fabric is on the outside of the pool noodle. You’ll then need to tightly roll the fabric around the noodle. Repeat the same process with the batting layer. You’ll also need to roll the top layer around the noodle, but you’ll want to have the underside facing out.
Once you have all three layers of fabric snugly rolled onto the pool noodle, it’s time to start the actual basting process. With the backing facing you, use the noodle to unroll the layers approximately two feet. Next, use either a store-bought or homemade basting spray to coat the fabric. Once sprayed, take the tube with the batting, and roll it over the sprayed backing to ensure there are no wrinkles. It’s best to apply a bit of pressure once you have an edge basted down.
Repeat the process with the batting layer after you’ve sprayed and rolled the backing. You don’t need to spray the entire batting surface. Instead, you can apply the spray in lines approximately two to three inches wide. Next, place the roll with the quilt top over the batting. The circular noodle allows you to easily pull the basted part toward you and roll out more sections of the backing. Repeat the process until you baste all the layers of your quilt.
At Honor Trading Company, we sell foam noodles for swimming and many other activities—including quilt basting! No matter your intended use, we offer foam noodles in a variety of styles and colors. Plus, you can purchase our products in bulk, so you’ll never have to worry about running out of pool noodles for your next quilting project. Check out our stock today!
]]>Are you interested in adding unique holiday décor to your home this Christmas season? Don’t underestimate the versatility of pool noodles! These foam tubes can create a variety of beautiful decorations that will transform your home into a winter wonderland. Let’s explore some fun Christmas decorations you can make with pool noodles.
A pool noodle Christmas ornament wreath is a unique take on a classic holiday decoration. The best part is that you don’t need any special materials to complete this seasonal craft project. In fact, you probably already have all the supplies you need at home.
Check out the simple steps below:
When attaching the ornaments, be sure to put glue on the ornament and not directly on the pool noodles to prevent the foam from melting. With just a handful of materials and a few simple steps, you can make a beautiful Christmas ornament wreath from pool noodles.
Giant candy canes are also fun Christmas decorations you can make with pool noodles. Whether you choose to display them outside or inside, these oversized sweets add the perfect colorful touch to your holiday décor. Mrs. Claus may be known for her bakery, but once you’ve made some of these Christmas confection decorations, she’ll have some serious competition!
Here’s how to make a candy cane pool noodle:
This Christmas decoration is both unique and easy to make. As a result, you can create your very own candy cane forest in no time. Based on your holiday décor theme, you can also get creative with colors and branch out from the traditional red and white.
You can easily create a Christmas garland using pool noodle pieces. These festive garlands can hang on the wall, from the ceiling, or your mantle. If you’re feeling extra creative, you can even incorporate a string or two into your Christmas tree.
Here’s how to make a pool noodle garland:
This craft is incredibly quick and easy. As such, you can fill your home with dozens of garlands in various patterns and colors.
Honor Trading Company sells bulk pool noodles for all your Christmas decorating needs. Explore our extensive selection today to transform your home into a Clark-Griswold-approved masterpiece in no time.
]]>Do you know all the fun games you can DIY with a pool sprinkler? If you want to occupy your kids on a rainy day, get creative with the pool sprinkler. Check out these fun games to DIY on a rainy day using pool sprinklers!
A regular yard sprinkler simply won’t cut it for this project. If you want the kids to have a blast the next time they play outside, spend some time during the next rainy day to construct an ultimate sprinkler. The best part is you can complete this DIY with common materials from a hardware or home improvement store. It doesn’t take long to make, and kids of all ages will enjoy this craft!
Once you’ve completed this simple DIY, you’ll have a sprawling sprinkler that will cover a lot of surface area. Your kids will love running and jumping through such a large sprinkler on a hot day next summer!
Looking for another fun game to DIY on a rainy day using pool sprinklers? You can make your very own sprinkler using pool noodles! Your kids will love seeing this DIY activity come to life, and you can make one with materials you already own.
To create a pool noodle sprinkler, you’ll need a hollow foam noodle, a skewer, a plastic bottle cap, and duct tape. First, use the skewer to poke as many holes as you’d like in the noodle. Next, use the plastic bottle cap to cover one end of the noodle and secure it with duct tape. Finally, put the open end on your hose. There you have it! You’ve created the perfect noodle sprinkler!
You can use your noodle sprinkler for a lot of fun games, including Simon Says. Have your kids circle the sprinkler and follow Simon’s directions, such as, “Simon Says, stick your head in the water” or “Simon Says, jump in the water three times.” Your kids will love playing this classic game while splashing in the water.
At Honor Trading Company, we offer high-quality foam noodles in an array of colors, including black pool noodles, so you can easily create your own sprinkler. We also offer bulk options, so you can stock up on foam noodles and use them for all sorts of fun DIY water activities!
]]>Foam noodles have many uses beyond the pool, so it’s important to keep them as clean as possible. Whether you’re using a noodle as a wrist rest or a fun water toy, learn how you should sanitize your pool noodles. Once you understand cleaning techniques based on how you use the noodles, you’ll be able to fully enjoy their versatility.
If you use foam noodles in the pool, you only need to make sure the foam dries thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew growth. If your noodles are made from a porous material, be diligent with drying them. You can let them air dry in the sun, or you can use a towel to dry the inside and outside of the tube.
If you use foam noodles in bodies of water that do not contain chlorine, you will need to clean the foam by hand. To do so, mix bleach with water and apply the solution with a sponge inside and outside of the noodle. Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub off stubborn grime, and rinse the solution with a hose. Then, you can air dry it or use a towel to absorb the water.
Knowing how you should sanitize your pool noodles has a lot to do with the way you use them. For example, if you practice restorative yoga, you know you have to hold poses for an extended period. Yoga bolsters provide a supportive platform for most postures, and many people save money by making their own bolsters with foam noodles and a cotton pillowcase.
Clean your DIY yoga bolsters thoroughly and frequently. Remove the pillow case and wash it in a washing machine with cold water. Towel dry or hang dry the pillowcase to prevent it from shrinking. Once the pillowcase cover is clean, pop it on the foam noodle! Your DIY yoga bolster is now ready for your next session.
If you type on a keyboard for several hours per day, you know how achy your wrists can get. Luckily, you can turn a foam noodle into a wrist rest that supports your forearms and allows your muscles to relax while you type. However, if you use it on a daily basis, the oils from your skin can accumulate.
Use a handheld vacuum to clean debris off the noodle. Then, fill a spray bottle with an all-purpose cleaning agent diluted with water. Spray the solution onto the noodle, and use a soft microfiber cloth to gently wipe it off.
Honor Trading Company offers a wide variety of styles and colors of pool noodles, including white pool noodles, for all your needs. Our team is ready to help you find the perfect foam noodles today!
]]>When you think of pool noodles, you probably picture a bunch of children floating or playing with them in water. However, noodles have so many fun uses beyond splashing around on a hot summer day. For example, if you’re a teacher, you can use pool noodles to enhance your classroom in a variety of ways.
Since noodles are made from durable foam and they typically come in bright, colorful colors, they’re ideal for hands-on activities for younger children. Plus, pool noodles are generally inexpensive and often come in bulk, so teachers spending their own money on classroom supplies don’t need to stress. Continue reading to learn how to use pool noodles in elementary school classrooms.
Pool noodles are great for children to practice their spelling skills. Plus, this activity does not require much prep work for the teacher. To start, you’ll need to cut the noodles into sections. You can typically cut foam noodles using a serrated knife commonly found in the kitchen. The toothed grooves of the knife latch onto the foam and make it easy to slice. If you want to ensure a cleaner, more even cut, you can use an electric knife.
After you’ve cut the noodles, use a permanent marker to write a letter on each piece. For your students to make as many words as possible, be sure to include plenty of vowels. Once each piece contains a letter, students can use the hole in the center of the noodle to thread them onto a ruler or wooden dowel to practice creating words. Read a short word aloud to your classroom and each student can string the letters together to spell it.
If you want to teach a lesson on patterns, pool noodles make a great visual aid. Start by cutting different colors of noodles into thin slices. Since this activity requires relatively skinny pieces, it may be easiest to use an electric knife that provides more control. First, give each student an even number of one color and an even number of another color. Using a ruler or wooden dowel, instruct your students to create any pattern they can think of using both noodle colors.
Once your classroom has mastered creating two-color patterns, give each student several colors to create more complex patterns. This type of activity is a quick and easy way to introduce the concept of repetition within numbers, letters, colors, etc.
You can also use pool noodles in elementary school classrooms to introduce or reinforce the concept of alphabetical order. Cut the noodles into 26 pieces and use a permanent marker to write one letter on each piece. Have students take turns stacking them in ABC order while you explain the importance of alphabetization.
If you’re working with older children or more advanced students, you can make the activity more age-appropriate by writing short words on each foam piece instead of letters. Mix up the pieces and instruct your students to organize them in alphabetical order. Once your classroom has mastered alphabetization, you can save each foam letter or word for the next school year.
You can plan a fun art lesson with the help of pool noodles, because sliced foam noodles make great stamps. Once you’ve cut the slices, students can dip the pieces in paint and create their own masterpiece on a large piece of paper. After the paint has dried, the class can decorate their stamps with markers and other art supplies such as glitter, feathers, stickers, etc.
If you want to take this art activity to the next level, try cutting the foam into different shapes or designs. If you’re making the cuts by hand, precision can be tricky, but the beauty of art is its uniqueness! However, if you want your designs to be as accurate as possible, an electric knife may be easier to operate. Your students will love displaying their artistic side with stamps shaped like hearts, stars, triangles, and so much more.
Pool noodles can be used in so many ways in the classroom—including as decor. If you’re looking for an easy, budget-friendly way to add some color and visual interest to your classroom walls, foam tubes are the perfect solution. Gather noodles in several colors and cut slices in varying widths to create a cheerful banner. Simply string the foam slices onto a thick piece of twine and hang your garlands on the walls and ceiling of your classroom.
Elementary school students will love learning in such a colorful, stimulating environment. Plus, pool noodle garlands aren’t fragile, so you don’t need to worry about your students bumping into them or accidentally knocking one off the wall.
Bugs may not immediately come to mind when you think about ways to use pool noodles in your classroom, but let us explain. If you’re teaching a science unit about insects, your students can use foam tubes to create their own creepy crawlers. Students can use their crafting and STEM skills to create a variety of bugs using pool noodle slices.
To begin, cut several colors of pool noodles into even slices. Each student should receive a handful of slices, a few pairs of adhesive googly eyes, and several pipe cleaners. The students can stick the googly eyes to the top of the foam slice and attach pipe cleaner pieces to create legs or antennae. If you’re learning about a certain type of bug during a particular lesson, ask your students to construct the insect using the pool noodle and other craft supplies.
With so many ways to incorporate pool noodles into your classroom activities and decor, you’ll most certainly want to buy them in bulk! Honor Trading Company sells high-quality foam noodles in a wide variety of colors, including stunning green pool noodles, so do yourself a favor and check out our selection today.
Our team members are standing by and ready to help you find the perfect type of noodle for your specific classroom needs. Plus, with so many beautiful shades to choose from, your students will love working with all the colors of the rainbow this school year.
]]>Have you ever heard of a pool noodle pom-pom launcher? If not, you’re in for a real treat! This easy DIY craft is a perfect activity for kids that uses materials you already have on hand. Plus, a launcher can be used for more than just pom-poms, so your kids can get creative with the materials they use. Explore some tips for creating a kid’s pool noodle pom-pom launcher, and you’ll be having fun in no time.
When you think of pool noodles, you probably don’t associate them with pom-pom launchers, but foam noodles can be used in so many unexpected ways. The first step to creating this fun craft is to gather the necessary supplies. As mentioned, you probably have most of these materials on hand, so you won’t need to spend a lot of money on this activity.
Gather the following pool noodle pom-pom launcher supplies:
As you can see, this pool noodle craft requires a minimal number of items. Unlike some DIY crafts designed for children, you won’t need to spend a lot of time or money to complete the project. In fact, older children can work on this activity without a great deal of adult supervision.
You can make a pool noodle pom-pom launcher in a few simple steps. First, cut the pool noodle to create the body of your launcher. Noodles are made from foam, so they’re easy to cut using a serrated knife from your kitchen or an electrical knife. You’ll want the noodle to be approximately 4 inches long.
Next, take the balloon and tie a knot at the end. Cut off about 1/4 inch from the end that is not tied. Once the balloon is tied on one end and cut on the other, stretch it over the end of the pool noodle as far as possible. Do your best to center the knot of the balloon over the hole of the noodle. Finally, secure the balloon to the pool noodle with duct tape.
The final tip for creating a kid’s pool noodle pom-pom launcher involves learning how to fire your masterpiece! You simply need to insert a pom-pom into the launcher, pull the balloon knot, and watch it fly. Be sure to always point your launcher away from others before firing. When you pull on the knotted end of the balloon, the hole in the middle of the pool noodle compresses the air and allows the pom-pom to soar.
With so many creative ways to use foam noodles for DIY crafts, it’s a good idea to always have some on hand. Want to create a pom-pom launcher in your favorite color? Honor Trading Company offers noodles in a wide array of colors and styles, including red swimming noodles, to suit your crafting needs and beyond.
]]>You can use foam noodles in so many innovative ways beyond splashing around in the water on a warm summer’s day. Whether you’re making fun décor for your child’s room or using them on a job site, it’s important to know how to cut pool noodles safely and evenly. You may think the foamy texture and sturdy design of a pool noodle make it easy to cut, but some household tools make this task easier than others.
A miter box is very helpful when cutting pool noodles. This tool holds and guides your saw while you make cuts. You can use a miter box to hold a pool noodle steady while you cut even slices.
Since pool noodles are made from slippery foam, using a miter box will ensure it stays in place while you work. Make sure you purchase an appropriately sized miter box to accommodate the noodles you want to cut.
You need to use an appropriate saw or serrated knife in order to safely and evenly cut a pool noodle with a miter box. Several knives can help you get the job done, so your choice depends on personal preference and the type of pool noodle you want to cut.
The long, serrated edge of a bread knife is a good choice to use in conjunction with your miter box. A non-serrated blade also works, but it will offer less traction and may not cut the noodle as easily. If you use a straight knife, be sure the blade is sharp so that the noodle doesn’t tear mid-cut.
If you need to cut many pool noodles for your project or have achy or arthritic joints, it may be worthwhile to invest in an electric knife. This inexpensive tool does the work for you, so you don’t need to worry about straining yourself!
When cutting foam noodles lengthwise, you should keep some important tips in mind. For example, if you want to hang a noodle on your garage wall to act as a barrier for your car door, you will need to cut it in half. Cutting a noodle lengthwise is slightly more difficult than cutting it vertically because it might move around on the cutting surface. Luckily, you can stabilize your noodle while cutting.
Apart from using your miter box, trace a straight line along the length of the noodle by placing it on the floor along the baseboard. Then, use this line as a roadmap for straight cuts.
When you need foam noodles for splashing around in the water or unique DIY projects, turn to the experts at Honor Trading Company. We offer a wide variety of foam noodles in different sizes and bright colors, including yellow swim noodles, for your next project.
]]>Splashing around in the water with foam noodles is a lot of fun, but these toys provide so many other helpful benefits inside and outside your home. Continue reading to learn why your garage could benefit from pool noodles.
If you’ve had a bad day at work, return home, and hit the wall of your garage as you kick open your car door, you know how frustrating it is to ding the side of your vehicle. Fortunately, pool noodles can prevent this issue!
A well-placed foam noodle can protect your car door from damage. Use nails, mounting tape, or glue to fasten the noodle to the wall along the spot where your car door meets the wall. Use the right tools and fasteners for this project—you don't want to send a nail through studs or wires!
Another innovative way to use pool noodles in your garage is to construct a hanging organizer. Your garage can quickly become a catch-all for lawn equipment, gardening tools, seasonal decorations, and everything else you can’t fit inside your home.
The good news is you don’t need to spend a lot of money to tidy up your garage. Slice a pool noodle in half lengthwise, add vertical slices approximately six inches apart to hold the handle in place, and affix it to your garage wall to store long items with handles, such as fishing poles, brooms, and mops. This noodle hack will prevent your possessions from haphazardly sitting in a pile on the floor or getting lost in your garage.
Even a parked car can accumulate dents and scratches in the tight quarters of a garage. If you don’t give much thought to the space above your head when opening your trunk, the door can bump the roof of your garage.
Pool noodles can prevent vehicle damage by acting as a barrier between your trunk door and the ceiling or lifted garage door. As with the car door bumper, mark the area where your trunk tends to hit the ceiling or garage door to determine where you’ll install the foam noodle.
Honor Trading Company is your go-to source for foam noodles. From closed-cell backer rods for your next construction project to standard noodles for home improvements, we can help you find the perfect product!
]]>When you think of pool noodles, you might associate them with family fun in the swimming pool. However, did you know that they have a surprising use for fishing as well? Pool noodles are an excellent alternative to traditional fishing gear. Learn the ins and outs with this complete guide to fishing with pool noodles.
It’s no secret that angling can get pretty expensive, especially when you consider tackle, gear, and bait. As such, two of the best benefits of pool noodles are their affordability and versatility. For example, you can use pool noodles to create bobbers or drift floats, or you can attach them to your fishing rod to organize your tackle. You can also use them to mark your fishing spots by cutting them into smaller sections and tying them to your fishing line.
Any fisher knows that buoyancy indicators are crucial to help detect the slightest movement in the water. However, standard commercial indicators are expensive. Using pool noodles is an affordable alternative to track a fish's movement in the water. You can either take a long pool noodle and attach it to your fishing line or cut it into smaller bits to use as a smaller indicator.
The best benefit is that you can reuse foam noodles, unlike other types of fishing gear. They're an excellent choice for beginners, children, or anyone interested in low-risk investments.
Generally, improper casting techniques can lead to tangled fishing lines, lost lures, and unsatisfactory fishing trips. Fortunately, there is a simple and inexpensive solution that could save time—pool noodles. To cast a line using a pool noodle, follow these simple steps:
Another essential part of this guide to fishing with pool noodles is bait-securing methods. Bait attracts fish to your pole and allows you to secure a good catch. Here are a few methods to secure bait on foam noodles.
When it comes to successfully reeling in a catch with a pool noodle, there are a few techniques you can try.
Although most pool noodles have a similar appearance, there are various options to choose from. When choosing the right type of pool noodle for fishing, consider the following tips:
A bobber is critical in fishing because it helps you detect when you have caught a fish. However, keeping the bobber in place is difficult. But this is where pool noodles come in handy. Cut the noodle into small pieces and make a slit in the middle. Insert the bobber into the slit, and you’ll have a stable floater that won't sink!
Hooks can be dangerous, especially when you are removing them from the fish's mouth. To avoid poking yourself, squeeze the hook through a pool noodle. The foam will hold the hook firmly in place, and you can remove it from the fish's mouth.
If you don't have a basket, use a pool noodle to hold your catch. Slit a pool noodle lengthwise and place the fish into the slit. Don’t overload the pool noodle because it might tip!
You can craft a rod holder using a pool noodle. Cut off a small section of the noodle and make a slit. Insert the rod into the slit to create a makeshift rod holder! Ideally, this stand will be stable enough to hold your rod and prevent it from slipping.
]]>Entertain your kids, pets, or friends with an inexpensive outdoor toy. Turn your yard into a splash zone with a DIY sprinkler! Follow this simple guide to turn a pool noodle into a sprinkler in a few easy steps.
DIY sprinklers are simple to make and require few supplies. The first and most obvious is a pool noodle. A large pool noodle is best because you can poke more holes through the surface. You also need a screwdriver, ballpoint pen, duct tape, and garden hose.
Follow these steps to create a pool noodle sprinkler:
Turning a pool noodle into a sprinkler is fairly simple and requires few tools. What happens when sprinkler time is over? You can turn your DIY sprinkler into a multipurpose gardening tool! Place the sprinkler in the garden beds to water your plants. You can also cut the foam into sections and wrap them around plant stems for support. Ultimately, you can get the most out of foam noodles in many unique ways!
]]>Spice up your Halloween decorations with an interesting addition. Pool noodle candles are simple yet fantastic décor that enhances tables, mantels, and more! Start your décor journey by checking out these tips for making spooky Halloween candles from pool noodles.
Make your pool noodle candles realistic by cutting the foam into various lengths. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to do this! You can make small cuts for subtle effects or large cuts for dramatic height differences.
After cutting your pool noodles, secure the materials with rope or hot glue. Since the foam is lightweight, free-standing noodles will likely fall over.
Consider using black pool noodles for a spooky theme.
Pool noodles are flammable; you can’t place open flames on the material. However, you can achieve illumination with faux tea lights! The battery-powered or remote-controlled lights can sit on pool noodles and give the illusion of a flame. You’ll have a spooky vibe without the fire hazard.
Some faux tea lights have different flame colors, like orange, red, and dark blue. The deeper shades can enhance the candles and contribute to the Halloween theme.
Dripping hot glue down the candle’s sides is a great tip for making spooky Halloween candles from pool noodles. It offers the illusion of “melted candle sticks” and makes the candles look eerie.
Let your hot glue drip from the top of your noodle down the side. Maneuver your hot glue gun back and forth slightly over the edge of the candle for the best results. The hot glue creates a natural “dripping” effect.
Make a spooky display with your Halloween candles, whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or want themed décor. Here are a few suggestions:
Honor Trading company offers foam noodles for all your needs. Check out our foam noodles for padding and other great products. You don’t want to miss these awesome items!
]]>Make pool time enjoyable with awesome activities. The best part is you don’t need expensive gear. Look at these fun swimming pool games with pool noodles for ideas! You, your family, and friends will want to play these games all day long.
Choose two players, place them on floaties, and push them to the center of the pool. Each player has a pool noodle, and they’ll joust until one player falls off their floatie. It’s best to use solid-core foam noodles because they’re slightly heavier than hollow foam noodles. The denser material helps players knock their opponents off the floaties.
Increase the challenge of relay races with a swimming pool competition! You need at least four people to make two teams. Place two players at one end of the pool and the others at the opposite end. Each player must hold a pool noodle and swim to their team member. The idea is to use the pool noodle as a baton to pass among team members. The first team to finish wins!
Pool Snake is another fun swimming pool game with pool noodles. To start, create a pattern of pool noodles and participants (noodle, person, noodle, person, etc.) to create one long "snake" in the water. The person at the "head" of the snake will swim while the other people try to keep the snake together. The first player to let go of their noodle (and break the chain) is out of the game. You can reconnect the snake and continue until the snake comes apart. Start a new game with a different person at the head!
You can play bubble pop competitively with two or more players or make it a solo game. You need a third person to blow the bubbles regardless of your preference.
One person stands outside the pool and blows bubbles while the player(s) inside the pool use their pool noodles to pop bubbles as fast as possible. Ideally, you want everyone to pop bubbles before they hit the water. The player who pops the most bubbles wins! To make things easier, have participants count the number of bubbles they pop to keep score.
Balloon toss is similar to volleyball but with pool noodles. Place a net across the pool’s center, and divide players into two teams. Everyone will use foam noodles to keep balloons airborne. The other team gets a point whenever the balloon touches the water on the opposing side's team. You can increase the difficulty level by adding more balloons.
]]>Pool noodles can teach various skills and help students maintain focus during any class instruction. In particular, pool noodles are versatile, inexpensive tools for physical education classes. If your gym struggles with limited equipment or just needs more variety, you can create activity stations with pool noodles. Foam noodles are lightweight, and they can fit inside storage rooms. They’re great tools for PE classes, so read on for wonderful uses for pool noodles in gym class!
Balance activities are ideal for young children because they build core strength, muscle strength, and endurance. As kids learn how to manage and control their bodies, they can understand concentration and critical thinking. Here are some balance activities kids can do with pool noodles:
Throw-and-catch games can improve hand-eye coordination and build arm strength. They’re also great for partner or trio tasks.
Partner Toss: Students throw and grab noodles with a partner or in a group.
Some physical education tasks stimulate the brain, improve focus, and encourage problem-solving. In particular, handling tasks encourage critical thinking and isolated movement.
Balloon games are fun, especially when you challenge students to prevent balloons from touching the ground. Think of these activities as lightweight volleyball. Keep in mind that balloon volleying games work best with extra-large pool noodles because they help keep the balloons in the air. Here are some activities to consider:
Relay games improve cardiovascular health as students compete to finish tasks as fast as they can. Furthermore, the activities encourage teamwork and coordination. You can upgrade relay races with these excellent pool noodle options:
Partner tasks teach students eye contact, collaboration, and teamwork. Partner tasks are also great opportunities for students to socially engage with each other. Check out these partner tasks:
Striking activities like hitting a baseball with a bat let students demonstrate advanced sports-specific movements. They also improve reaction time, agility, and power.
Target throw activities are great for people of all ages because they support hand-eye coordination. Target throw games also help kids understand movement strategies to determine the best way to hit a target. Here are a few games to integrate into your gym class:
From balance activities to handling tasks, there are many wonderful uses for pool noodles in gym class. The lightweight foam item is versatile, making it the perfect gym tool for students of all ages. Remember to incorporate these fun games, activities, and tasks throughout the school year!
]]>Brighten your kid’s room with fun décor. All you need is pool noodles and a few other supplies. Check out these five tips for using pool noodles as kids’ room décor to get inspired!
Make a 3D rainbow with pool noodles! Arrange foam noodles in a rainbow-colored pattern on a flat surface. Use plastic zip ties to join the foam into a rainbow arc. You can also create white clouds with white foam boards to conceal the zip ties. It also enhances the finished look of the rainbow!
Another tip for using pool noodles as kids’ room décor is to make garlands with noodle pieces. Cut pool noodles into two-inch chunks and string them on a long piece of twine. You can use one noodle color or alternate shades for fun patterns. Tie both ends of the twine to secure the foam pieces.
Floral arrangements are beautiful but risky in kids’ rooms. Your high-energy children may knock over the vases and create a big mess. Fortunately, you can design floral arrangements with pool noodle vases! Cut green noodles into five-inch pieces. Then, glue one side of the pool noodles on a flat tray. Place artificial flowers and plants in the foam noodle holes. You can also glue fake grass onto the tray to create a mini garden. This simple yet beautiful décor can totally liven your kid’s room!
School is in session! Craft giant pencils with yellow pool noodles and other simple supplies. Use duct tape to mimic the metal attachment for the eraser. You can also paint the upper part of the noodle red to mimic an eraser. Customize your giant pencil with a “No.2” and black lines to make it realistic.
You can also create giant crayons, markers, and other school supplies. Let your imagination run wild with these ideas!
Make your kid feel like they’re “under the sea” with a coral reef display. You can turn pool noodles into coral reefs with red, green, blue, and orange foam. Follow our step-by-step guide to create the perfect display. You can also enhance the structure with inflatable sea creatures, plastic seashells, or toy mermaids! Whatever you choose, you’ll create an excellent spectacle for your child’s space.
Do you want to enhance your child’s room with pool noodle décor? If so, you’re at the right place! Purchase cheap pool noodles from Honor Trading Company today! We have an excellent selection of colors and sizes for any craft.
]]>No one wants to hear loud, banging noises inside their home. Pipe issues can generate unpleasant sounds that affect your space, but pool noodles can prevent your pipes from clanking. Learn how to use them today!
Does it sound like someone’s knocking on your door, but no one’s there? Do you hear loud banging noises near your water supply? If so, your pipes are the culprits of unpleasant sounds.
High water pressure is one reason why some pipes are loud. When water pressure exceeds the system’s capacity, it can generate a loud, vibrating noise. Hydraulic shock, also known as water hammering, can also affect pipes. This occurs when fluid in motion suddenly stops because the valve shuts off. The momentum of the water stopping creates a pressure wave that travels through the pipe system. This generates a loud banging noise.
Other culprits of pipe sounds are loose fasteners, clogs, leaks, and worn-out nuts and bolts. Plumbers can mitigate issues, but you probably want an immediate remedy for the loud noise. Fortunately, pool noodles can do the trick!
You can minimize sound by covering the pipes. Pool noodles can prevent your pipes from clanking by absorbing excess noise. Cut a long slit in pool noodles, wrap them around your pipes, and use duct tape to secure the foam. This reduces noise and adds insulation to the piping system. The noodles also act as a barrier for piping; if they bump together, the impact won’t generate noise. Instead, the foam noodles absorb the impact.
As mentioned, pool noodles can insulate pipes. This is ideal during cold weather because you can prevent pipes from freezing. It also reduces heat loss and helps you maintain a warmer home throughout the winter.
The pipes in your home might hang from the ceiling. Use colorful pool noodles to mark low-hanging pipes and avoid banging your head on them. If you do bump into the pipes, the soft foam prevents injuries.
From covering loud noises to insulating systems, pool noodles are handy tools for pipes. The best part is they’re inexpensive! Purchase cheap pool noodles from Honor Trading Company today.
]]>Blackout curtains block sunlight coming through windows, but illumination can still shine through any gaps. Fortunately, we have a simple remedy with an inexpensive tool. Discover why you should use a pool noodle with your blackout curtains!
Blackout curtains are double-lined drapes that cover windows. They block out sunlight and artificial illumination from vehicles, streetlights, nearby buildings, and neighboring homes. The fabric provides an extra layer of protection over blinds, which have gaps that allow light to leak through.
People use blackout curtains to sleep in total darkness. They are ideal in urban areas or places with intense light pollution. Night shift workers can greatly benefit from blackout curtains because they create a nighttime ambiance while resting during the day.
As mentioned, light can peek through gaps in blackout curtains and impact your quality of sleep. Luckily, pool noodles can help you fix this problem! You should use a pool noodle with your blackout curtains to line the edges of your windows. Slice a black swimming pool noodle lengthwise and place it at the top of the curtain rod. Secure the noodle with tape to ensure it blocks out light. The simple yet effective tip can dramatically improve the function of your blackout curtains.
Pool noodles are great for other curtain hacks outside of blocking light. They can fluff out curtains and make them more aesthetically pleasing. Cut a pool noodle into two-inch pieces, and create a slit on one side of each piece. Wrap the pool noodles around the curtain rod; the foam will push your drapes forward, help the fabric maintain its shape, and create a neat appearance.
Lastly, pool noodles are perfect bumpers for low window sills. If you have small children, line your windows with foam noodles to prevent them from bumping their heads on the sill.
Foam noodles are helpful tools in many scenarios, and you can purchase these great items from Honor Trading Company. We’re a bulk foam noodle superstore, so check out our wholesale products now.
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