Line trash cans multiple times
I always try to keep extra plastic bags in the bottom of each trashcan. In doing this, you already have the next trash bag ready when you collect the trash. At the seminar last week, a lady shared that she goes ahead and lines the trashcan with several bags. Not only are they already ready to use, but they act as extra protection for spills.
Swish & Swipe
I am learning a lot from the Fly Lady techniques. The easy task we are focusing on this month, trying to make it a habit, is called Swish & Swipe. Every morning, without cleaner, you just wipe down your sink and faucet with a towel. Also, with the toilet brush, no cleaner, just swish the toilet bowl. All of this together takes less than 1 minute. However, your bathroom looks like you just cleaned it. No more worries of unexpected company between cleanings!
Laundry Tip
To remove a stain from clothing, mix in the washer 1 Cup of bleach & 1 cup of Cascade Dishwashing Crystals. Once dissolved and mixed well, add the clothing and wash on a regular cycle. This always scares me, and I have only done this on items that will be ruined if the stain doesn't come out, but it has worked every time. Last week, my son left a blue marker in his new shorts and they were washed in the washer. There were 2 huge stains. Instead of throwing them away, I tried this and they came out looking brand new.
(A few days after I sent out this tip, I received my Woman's Day magazine in the mail. I couldn't believe that they actually mentioned the same method. I wanted to let you know though, they also recommended using this only as a last resort.)
Homemade Fabric Softener & Room Freshener
Reader Tip by Patti Bunk
This recipe is a window scent for the spring when the windows are
open. Take a small dish and place it on your window sill. Place a small
amount of Lavender Essential oil on the dish. The wonderful aroma will fill
the room with the Lavender scent.
Here is one for Laundry: Laundry Softener- Mix 1 cup of vegetable glycerin
with 1 gallon of water mix and then add a 1/4 to 1/2 tsp of Lavender
essential oil. Add a 1/2 cup to 1 cup to rinse cycle.
Quick Cleaner
From Barbara Malikowski
Keep regular cleaner in a spray bottle. I have one in the bath, kitchen &
laundry rooms. When I need to do a quick clean up it is handy to have.
Oil Spills
Sprinkle cat litter on oil spills in your garage or driveway. It
absorbs the oil so you can sweep it right up.