Slob Proof! Real Life Design Solutions Review & Giveaway

I was recently sent a copy of Slob Proof! Real life Design Solutions, by Debbie Wiener to review. I don't want to say we're slobs, but well ok, we probably are...

The book focuses on home decor solutions for real people with children and pets, who don't want to keep plastic wrap on the furniture.  :)

Some of the suggestions were fairly obvious: no white carpet, patterns cover messes better than solids, etc. There were also some really solid suggestions about what to look for when replacing carpet or installing wood floors, to achieve maximum durability. This was something I was particularly interested in, as we're looking at replacing our carpet with wood floors in the foreseeable future.

There was information about how to select a quality sofa and other furniture that would withstand bouncing kids, dirty dogs, and the inevitable spill, among other things.

I thought it was a good read, and will be looking into some of the specific brands and products Debbie references throughout the book.

I always enjoy looking at decorating books and magazines, but it's usually obvious that they're aimed at people with no kids, no dogs, and tidy husbands. This book is for the rest of us.

If you're in need of some family friendly solutions, and would like to check it out for yourself, leave a comment here with your biggest decorating struggle. One randomly selected commenter (in the U.S.,) will receive a copy of the book for themselves. Don't forget to leave a way to be contacted if you are the winner!

This giveaway will end 8/21/2010, at midnight central time.

Disclosure: I was provided with a review copy of the book, as well as one to giveaway. No other compensation was provided, and the opinions expressed are my own.