It’s safe to say cleaning anything in the bathroom is a universally dreaded task (I know I can’t stand it!), but everything from the toilet and the shower to the floors and counters should be scrubbed weekly. I recently learned this clever and extremely simple trick for making the task a bit easier.
more about: cleaning
Save Money by Running Your Dishwasher at Night
Did you know running your dishwasher at night could cut down on your utility bills? Because many electric companies charge lower rates for off-peak usage (generally between 7 P.M. and noon) you can save some green by running large appliances (dishwasher, washing machine, dryer, etc.) during those hours. Try to avoid peak energy times as well—2 P.M. is generally when […]
Make Snow Shoveling Easier
We’re bracing for a pretty serious snowstorm here in New York this weekend. And if you’re in Nemo’s path (yes, that’s what they’ve named this storm), this tip might come in handy tomorrow morning as you try to shovel your way out of your driveway. To prevent icy snow from building up on a metal shovel, give it a quick […]
A Quick Way to Clean a Greasy Pan
If you’re like me, you hate to leave dirty dishes overnight. (That doesn’t mean I always get them done before bed, but I try to.) When it comes to greasy pans, sometimes an overnight soak seems like the only option, but there is a quicker way to get them clean. Try this method: 1. Fill the pan halfway with water, […]
How to Prepare for Unexpected Guests
Unexpected guests are always a pleasant surprise, but it always seems like someone decides to stop by when the house (or, in my case, apartment) is at it’s worst. Before shooing them out the door and off to the restaurant down the street, here are a few tips for whipping your house into shape in a jiffy.
One Kitchen Item You Should Always Hand Wash
The dishwasher will certainly save time and energy (if you’re lucky enough to have one!), but that convenience can come at a price for your good knives. A dishwasher’s high-pressure water jets can cause knife blades to knock against other utensils in the silverware basket, dulling and damaging them more quickly. Additionally, the heat of the drying cycle can […]
How to Clean an Iron
Cleaning an iron almost seems counter-intuitive. How could that burning hot device that you press against fresh laundry actually get dirty? But as frequent ironers know, the iron’s steam holes have a tendency to get caked up, and the plate itself can become tarnished by mineral deposits (which can stain your clothes). If your iron’s looking a little worse for […]
The Messy Doctor’s Office
A few weeks ago I went to see a new doctor who was recommended to me by one of my regular doctors. (I suppose you have reached a certain age when you can write “one of my regular doctors.” It’s not exactly like I’ve got a corps of doctors at the ready but, you know, it’s a growing list.) This […]
