Feng shui flora

An ancient Chinese practice, feng shui is all about cultivating spaces so the energy of the person living there can thrive. This means the positioning of furniture and even indoor plants matter when creating a flow of harmony that matches the natural order of the world. And according to feng shui experts, there are certain good luck plants that are believed to naturally attract good energy into the space.

Depending on the plant you choose, you can bring different kinds of luck into your life and into your home, says feng shui consultant and author Carole Hyder. The lucky bamboo plant, for instance, can attract financial luck, while others are known to bring romance, harmony and health. If you are seeking more good luck, celebrating the Chinese New Year, acquiring good luck charms or staying away from unlucky things, consider also adding good luck plants to your home.

An important note about good luck plants

They need to be well cared for. Obviously, a wilted plant won’t bring your space good luck or clean air. In fact, a dying plant may even cultivate bad luck because it drains the space of energy. Every plant needs water and sunlight to thrive, but the amount varies, so continue reading to learn which good luck plants might best fit your lifestyle and location year around.

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Your home’s most overlooked (dirty) items

We all know we should wash our dishes, vacuum our carpets and mop the kitchen floor, but some things tend to get left behind. Maybe it’s because we’re busy, we aren’t sure how to clean these items or we secretly don’t want to clean that stinky trash canfor whatever reason, we just don’t put these items on the cleaning schedule.

But just like washing dishes is an important part of knowing how to clean your kitchen and scrubbing the toilet is key to how to clean your bathroom, it’s important not to neglect even the most forgettable of tasks (especially how to do laundryugh!). If you have a sinking feeling there are things you probably aren’t washing enough, we’ve got expert advice to help you get your house in order.

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Bedroom paint colors to set the mood

Whether youre looking to increase your resale value or just refresh your personal oasis, painting a bedroom makes a huge visual impact.

But how do you know which color to choose? While a basic white can go with everything, it may read a bit dated or boring. And while a bright color may seem fun and exciting, its also daunting to incorporate all your current furniture pieces.

Here are five of our favorite bedroom paint colors for 2024. They all strike a beautiful balance between aesthetic interest and practicality, making them ideal options for your next bedroom makeover.

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Use cucumber peels to get rid of mites

At a glance, a houseplant might appear parched, with browning leaves. The leaves can start to yellow, wilt and drop off. Take a closer look at the planthold it up to the light and turn leaves over and look underneath and along stems. If you observe any wispy webbing and what appear to be tiny moving dots moving around the plant, it has mites.

Cucumbers can help to repel mites due to their cucurbitacins. Cucurbitacins are bitter-tasting compounds that deter insects.

You can directly place cucumber peels in the soil of the plant to keep insects away.

Tiny mites also prefer a dry environment. The best way to keep them off your plants is to create a more humid atmosphere for your plants. Misting them regularly can help. Use acucumber water spray to keep mites out of your houseplants!

Make cucumber water for plants

Mites do not like moisture. Keeping your plants hydrated with regular sprays of cucumber water will keep mites from moving in and damaging your plants. The compounds of the cucumber work to naturally repel mites too. This TikTok from @creative_explained has a recipe for cucumber water that’s easy to make and can help keep your plants looking and feeling their best.

@creative_explained Cucumbers can be used for so many things! #cucumbers #lifehacks #plantsoftiktok #planttips #recycle #howto #diy original sound – Armen Adamjan

Save the peels from any variety of cucumber. Place the scraps in a clean glass jar, fill with water and cover with a lid. Let the peels soak for five days. Then strain the water and compost the peels. Fill a clean spray bottle with the cucumber water.

Use the cucumber water to mist your plants to keep mites from taking hold. Use a stronger spray to blast off any mites crawling on the leaves or stems of the plant. Be sure and spray the underside of leaves where mites hide.

This homemade cucumber spray is also rich in potassium and phosphorus, which helps to promote healthy plant growth!

Simple Steps to Revive a Dead Plant

Why Plant Leaves Develop Brown Tips

The Best Low-Light Indoor Plants

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Can lemons really clean an oven?

It’s no secret that lemons are great for cleaning. The bright yellow citrus contains both citric acid and ascorbic acid (vitamin C), and acids are effective at removing stains, cleaning off limescale and even fighting rust. Lemons are also naturally antibacterial and can neutralize odors. I’ve used the fruit to clean my microwave and garbage disposal, with positive results.

But the oven seemed a little more daunting. The glass door was brown with stains, and the bottom of the oven wasn’t much better. In the past, I’ve mostly stuck to Easy-Off to clean my oven, and while it works, I’d love to take a more natural approach.

How to use lemons as an oven-cleaning hack

@yagmuronerr this just saved my life natural oven cleaning hack i will also clean my airfryer& microwave with this way #cleaninghacks #cleaninghack #cleaninghacksforyou #cleaninghacksthatwork #cleaninghacks101 #cleaningasmr #cleaningtips #cleaningszn #cleantok #cleaningtiktok #cleaninghacks #cleanfreshhype #cleanwithmemotivation #cleanmotivation #cleaningmotivation #torontocontentcreator #torontocontentcreators #torontotiktok #submarine #titanic Ultimate life hacks – Kelly – The Life Bath

I followed the instructions for cleaning my oven with a lemon from the viral video by TikTok user @yagmuronerr (she posted more details in the comments). Read on to conduct your own lemon-cleaner experiment!

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. The idea behind the hack is that hot water and lemon create a steam and soften the stains inside the oven while the lemon water heats.

Step 2: Slice the lemon

Slice the lemon into thick slices. I sliced my lemon into four slices. I figured with the high temperature, I wanted the lemons to be pretty robust so they wouldn’t simply shrivel into tiny bits while they “cooked.”

Step 3: Add lemon and water to a dish

Fill an oven-safe bowl or dish with water, then add the lemon slices. I squeezed the lemon slices before dropping them in so the lemon juice would mix with the water.

Step 4: Bake

“Bake” the lemon water in the oven for 20 minutes at 400 degrees.

Step 5: Cool and clean

After the lemon water has baked for 20 minutes, turn off the oven and allow the water to cool for 10 to 20 minutes. (I attempted to move on to cleaning after 10 minutes, but the water was still too hot to touch, so I let it cool an additional 10 minutes with the oven open.) Once it’s cooled, dip a microfiber cloth in the lemon water, and scrub the oven interior and door.

Results: Not bad!

I’ll admit, I didn’t have high hopes that one little lemon would be strong enough to clean my oven. But it worked pretty well! It definitely didn’t get the oven glass as squeaky clean as a heavy-duty oven cleaner, but you can see how much grime and grease I was able to wipe off with my cloth. It was even more effective on the bottom of the oven, where I was able to remove most of the stains. I think next time, I might increase the baking time as well as the cooling time, hopefully creating more steam. The bottom line: I won’t be giving up my Easy-Off anytime soon, but I think the lemon hack is great as a quick method, used between deep-cleaning sessions.

How to Clean a Glass Oven Door

What to Know About Self-Cleaning Ovens

How to Clean Oven Racks Easily

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Growing hydroponically has the added benefit that it can be done in places that were previously off-limits to gardeners and farmers, like small spaces and areas without healthy soil. It also typically uses less water than traditional gardening and farming. Different types of hydroponic gardening systems are available, making it accessible to anyone who would like to grow some of their own foodhello, year-round leafy greens and herbs!

“Hydroponic gardens are a part of the future of agriculture,” says Lance Beecher, PhD, aquaponics, aquaculture and fisheries specialist at Clemson University. “With limited space and resources, mainly water, hydroponics can fill a niche within agriculture where food can be grown in areas not thought of before and provide fresh food to places where people need it the most.”

If you’re curious about the easiest foods to grow at homeor want to createa container garden orvertical garden, rest assured that you can grow your own food regardless of how much space you have. Consider some of these hydroponic garden kits so you can have a fresh and continuous supply of sustainable food.

What is a hydroponic garden?

Because a hydroponic garden uses water instead of soil, plants can grow indoors, year-round, in less space than traditional soil-based gardens. This means if you live in a tiny apartment or don’t have an outdoor area, you can still grow fresh food, such as leafy greens and herbs. Hydroponic grown plants usually grow faster, can yield a bigger harvest than plants grown in soil and use less water. You can purchase a ready-to-go hydroponic garden or build your own.

How does hydroponic gardening work?

Plants need sunlight, water and nutrients to grow. Typically, plants get nutrients from soil, but “the basis of hydroponics is rooted in growing the food in nutrient-enriched water,” says Rick Vanzura, CEO of Freight Farms. A hydroponic system can be programmed to ensure a plant receives adequate water, nutrients, light and even the correct pH level to provide each plant what it needs to survive and thrive.

Depending on the type of hydroponic system, roots are placed either directly in the water with dissolved nutrients or in a growing medium, such as clay pebbles, perlite, peat moss or coconut fiber, where they will receive all the nutrients they need to grow. If you’ve been learning about organic food, you can grow and harvest your own with a hydroponic garden.

What plants can grow hydroponically?

A variety of different foods can be grown in a hydroponic garden. Microgreens are among the easiest plants to grow. “Microgreens are resilient and more cost effective to experiment with, making them the ideal trial-and-error crop,” says Vanzura.

Similar to what you can grow in a backyard hanging garden, “the more popular vegetables grown in hydroponics include leafy greens and lettuces,” says Beecher. However, more complex systems can produce fruiting vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and more,” he says.

You have to consider which plants can do well in a small space and don’t weigh too much. “Hydroponic farms typically support produce that thrives in nutrient solution and isn’t too heavy to be grown vertically,” says Vanzura. But if you’re interested in growing root vegetables, such as beets, potatoes or even kohlrabi, you’ll need to plant them in soil. Beecher explains that growing tuber vegetables in a hydroponic setting is nearly impossible, though Vanzura says his hydroponic farm is able to grow radishes and turnips.

What are the benefits of a hydroponic garden?

In addition to being able to grow food without soil and in small spaces, hydroponic gardening can contribute to solving social and environmental issues by being a sustainable source of food.

In regions with food desertsareas where people don’t have access to fresh fruit or vegetablesa hydroponic garden or farm can be part of the solution. Hydroponic gardens “can bring food deserts and local communities fresh produce close to home at a more affordable, environmentally friendly cost, says Vanzura. “They can help to offset rising food and farmland costs and create a better way to grow some of our staple produce.”

Vanzura lists other benefits as well: “Hydroponic plants can grow 40% to 50% faster and produce 30% more than the plants growing in soilnot only growing more produce in a shorter amount of time, but also, in some cases, growing produce that is even more nutrient dense.”

What are the drawbacks of a hydroponic garden?

Like most things, hydroponic gardening does have a few downsides. For one, a hydroponic garden requires continual vigilance to ensure that the plants are receiving adequate nutrients and have sufficient water. Beecher explains that the hydroponic system can be complex and costly. There are also limitations on what grows well, so you can’t grow everything under the sun. For example, if you want to have a successful crop of potatoes or other root vegetables, you’ll need to grow them in a soil-based garden. You probably can’t grow indoor fruit trees, either. Other drawbacks, Beecher explains, include the risk of airborne diseases, as well as greater use of electricity to run the system.

How do you build a hydroponic garden?

You can build several different types of hydroponic gardens. “My choices for beginners would be the deep water culture, which can be performed using a floating raft in a reservoir or in a bucket,” says Beecher. “The designs can be constructed with relative ease and are inexpensive to start with for a hydroponic system.”

If you have more experience or want a creative project, you’ll want to consider a different system. “Individuals who are beginners but are looking for a slightly more advanced option should look to a horizontal ebb-and-flow shelf rack,” Vanzura says. “This type of setup is used for growing microgreens, and it gives you more freedom to experiment with environmental elements compared to compact systems.”

Consider the following systems before purchasing supplies.

Wick system

The wick system is the easiest and simplest system to set up, with a reservoir, a growing tray and wicks. In this system, plants are placed in a growing substrate, such as perlite or a soilless mix, with the reservoir placed below. A string or rope wick connects the water-nutrient solution to the roots of the plant.

Plants that need a lot of water, such as leafy greens or tomatoes, won’t do well with this system, since it may not provide sufficient liquid nutrients fast enough. This system is good for herbs and microgreens.

What you’ll need:

• A reservoir such as a 3-gallon bucket
• A growing tray filled with a medium like perlite
• Wicks

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Fill up the reservoir with the liquid-nutrient solution.
2. Place a couple strings or wicks at the bottom of the growing tray and connect it to the reservoir.
3. Place the seedling or plant over the reservoir. The wick will transport water-nutrient solution directly to the roots when the plant is thirsty or ready.

Deep water culture system

A deep water culture system is one of the more popular and easier hydroponic systems to use. The roots of the plants are submerged in aerated water so they receive sufficient water, nutrients and oxygen. This system requires an air pump and an air stone to keep the water oxygenated.

What you’ll need:

• X-ACTO knife to cut the styrofoam platform
• Air stone
• Air pump
• 3- or 5-gallon bucket or other opaque storage container
• Net pots
• Styrofoam to use as a raft

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Add water and nutrients to an opaque reservoir or container and fill to a depth of 12 inches or more.
2. Place an air stone into the water and connect it to an air pump that is near (but not inside) the reservoir. The pump helps aerate the water so the roots receive enough oxygen.
3. Cut your styrofoam to create a growing raft that can sit and float about 1 inch below the top of the container or reservoir. Cut holes into the styrofoam with enough spacing between them to allow plants room to grow.
4. Next, place your plants in the net pots (also known as mesh planters) and then place the net pots in the holes on the styrofoam raft. The net pots let the plants’ roots grow out of the bottom and the sides, so they have easier and better access to nutrients and oxygen. The roots of the plant need to be submerged in the aerated water of the reservoir. If they don’t receive sufficient oxygen, the roots can drown.

Ebb and flow

This system is more technical and complex but also offers greater versatility. It functions by flooding and draining the reservoir periodically, based on the needs of the plant, its growth cycle and even the air temperature. During the flooding process, oxygenated water moves through the system and provides hydration and nutrients to the plants. When it drains, the water nutrient solution goes back into the reservoir to be used again. A pump is necessary to flood and drain the growing tray.

What you’ll need:

• Electronic timer
• Submersible pump
• Fill and drain tubes

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Place the reservoir directly below the flood tray. Place your seedlings in pots with plenty of drainage holes and ensure the pots are taller than the flooding tray.
2. Use a fill tube and drain tube to connect the reservoir to the flood tray. The other end of the fill tube connects to the submersible pump, which allows you to set a timer and control the flooding. The drain tube relies on gravity to drain the water back into the flood tray.
3. Set up a submersible pump and use the timer to schedule how often to flood and drain the plants.

Should you build or buy a system?

Choosing whether to build or buy a hydroponic garden system comes down to personal preference, patience and time. Consider whether you want to spend time DIYing or prefer the ease of purchasing a ready-made hydroponic garden. If you have an engineer’s mind or want a project, building your own hydroponic system can be fun, rewarding and slightly less expensive than purchasing a ready-made system.

If you want to start growing immediately and want to see if hydroponic gardening is a good fit for you, opt for a premade system. “Countertop hydroponic systems are a good starting point to explore how light and water affects plants grown hydroponically,” says Vanzura. “These systems are built for beginners and usually include add-in nutrients, which is a good way to understand which nutrients are needed for plants to thrive and why, and at what levels.”

Tips for maintaining your hydroponic garden

Beecher recommends having patience and being willing to learn from mistakes before embarking further into hydroponics. Beecher and Vanzura offered a few more of their best tips for hydroponic gardening:

• “One of the most important things you can do to maintain a hydroponic system is to change the water on a consistent basis,” says Vanzura.
• “It’s also important to practice taking sensor readings for electrical conductivity (EC) and pH to ensure your nutrients and pH-down are dosing correctly,” Vanzura says.
• “Always gather as much information as needed before diving in,” says Beecher. “Information from reputable sources is vital for success.”
• “Understanding the relationship between the plant and the nutrients is essential to success,” explains Beecher.
• “Build a small, inexpensive system and get used to the new growing technique,” says Beecher.

Want a few more ideas about getting started? Be sure to read these gardening tips for beginners.

Sources:

• Lance Beecher, PhD, aquaponics, aquaculture and fisheries Specialist at Clemson University
• Rick Vanzura, CEO of Freight Farms
• Greengold Farms: “How to Build a Floating Raft Deep Water Culture (DWC) System”

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What is a stone bath mat?

The Sutera stone bath mat is a replacement for a traditional fabric mat. Its made of Diatomaceous Earth, a compact and natural material made from fossilized plankton. Water soaks into the material quickly, always leaving a dry mat in its wake.

But the mat isnt just for the bathroom. Even if you have a washable rug, its useful just about anywhere water is involved, including the kitchen sink for dishes, under pet bowls and near a pool or hot tub. I personally used it in the bathroom and it completely changed my shower hygiene.

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Sutera stone bath mat features

The stone bath mat is 5 inches long and 16 inches wide. It comes in granite, slate and gray color options to best match your bathroom dcor. It’s one inch thick and weighs about 6 pounds. Included in the kit are the stone mat, an anti-slip mat to go underneath and sanding paper for maintenance. I chose the gray color, which matched my white tile floors perfectly.

How I tested it

The mat comes wrapped in a thick, plastic bubble casing in a cardboard box. While not exactly the most sustainable option, plastic is necessary to protect the stone material. The stone feels like textured cement, and I noticed some dust on my hands after carrying it. This is normal, according to the instructions, and all it needs is a good rinse before use.

In the shower

For my shower that evening, I happily tossed my dingy fabric mat to the side and gently set up the anti-slip and stone mat next to my shower. When reaching for my towel, a few drops hit the mat and just as quickly vanished.

While I usually dry off as much as I can while in the shower to prevent a mess, I stepped onto the mat completely to test it out. My feet left imprints as if I had just stepped in wet cement, but the water started to absorb into the mat in seconds.

I just wish my entire bathroom floor was made of Diatomaceous Earth! My feet dry instantly, but unless Im getting completely dry on the mat, I still drip water when walking from the shower to the sink. It also takes some time for the water to completely absorb. My footprints were still visible for about 15 minutes after my showerstill better than a fabric bath mat!

My bathroom is pretty small. As much as I try to make the bathroom look bigger, there isn’t much floor space. I dont want the mat to get dirty with hair, dust or dirt (I have to sweep my bathroom floor often), so I find it best to prop the mat against the wall when not in use. Setting it up can be inconvenient, but if you have enough space in your bathroom, this shouldnt be an issue.

What fascinated me is the sanding tool. A circle piece of sandpaper-like material is meant to keep the mat fresh. Instructions say to sand down the mat every few months to keep it in top shape. I love that I don’t need to replace this household item, I just have to maintain it.

Pros

• Absorbs water quickly
• Made of natural Diatomaceous stone
• Available in different colors
• Includes an anti-slip mat and sanding paper
• Useful for the bathroom, kitchen or outside
• Minimal maintenance

Cons

• Covers a small area
• More expensive than other mats

FAQ

Does the stone bath mat really work?

Germs love hiding in moist places. The material alone makes stone bath mats an ideal and cleaner alternative to fabric mats. They dry faster, last longer and hold less bacteria.

How long does a diatomaceous mat last?

Because diatomaceous mats are anti-microbial and high-quality, they can last for up to three years with proper maintenance. Give it a rinse and sanding every so often to ensure it holds up.

Do stone bath mats mold?

Traditional fabric bath mats are a hub for bacteria because of the moisture. Stone mats ability to dry quickly reduces the bacteria and mold potential.

What other reviewers had to say

Family members and house guests notice dirty mats. Read these reviews from other users who upgraded their mats.

“I first purchased this mat several months ago and am amazed how it quickly and completely dries my feet,” writes five-star reviewer Kerry Leslie. “One step on this mat is all it takes. I liked it enough to purchase three more for family members.”

“Love these bathmats,” raves Janice Gaddy, another five-star reviewer. “Amazing how they dry the feet almost instantly. Beautiful design. Will last a long, long time. Already got another for my daughter’s birthday gift. Thanks, Sutera!”

“My family loves this mat! I bought it for my bathroom after hating stepping onto a wet mat night after night,” says verified purchaser D. Cha. This mat is amazing. It soaks up the water and dries up super fast. No more stepping on a damp mat!”

Final verdict

Even with a bathroom cleaning routine, I’m so glad I don’t have to make washing bath mats another item on that to-do list. The stone bath mat solves the problem of wet floors and bacteria-infested mats. It saves time on wash and cleaning days, and I’m comforted that it’s a cleaner, slip-free alternative.

Plus, I’m saving money on buying new mats, which I love. The gray color goes with anything and maintenance is super easy. For anyone looking to declutter or invest in high-quality home pieces, I’d recommend a stone bath mat. They’re sleek, clean and won’t gross you out when they’re wet.

Admittedly, they’re a little pricey. But they do last for years, so the price per use is worth it. Thanks to the Sutera stone bath mat, fabric bath mats are officially on my list of things in my bathroom to get rid of. I might even get one for my kitchen!

Where to buy a Sutera Stone Bath Mat

The stone bath mat is available on the Sutera website, where you can buy one, two or three mats. You can also shop on Amazon. Believe me, once you try one, you’ll buy it for every room in the house.

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The post Review: Keep the Bathroom Floor Slip- and Drip-Free With This Hygienic Stone Bath Mat appeared first on Reader's Digest.

“Powdery mildew is actually an umbrella term for a wide range of fungi that cause similar symptoms, such as fuzzy powder on leaves,” says Jessie Liebenguth, a horticulturist with Reiman Gardens at Iowa State University. “Because there are multiple fungi that cause powdery mildew, nearly all plants can be affected.”

But don’t get too concerned about white fuzz on plants or finding white fungus balls in soil. When caught early, these fungi-based diseases are easy to stop. As with other gardening quandarieslike what it means when you see brown tips on leaves or how to revive a dead plantthere are tips and tricks that’ll convince everyone your thumb is a healthy shade of green. Of course, sometimes all it takes is knowing the conditions your indoor plants need, choosing low-light houseplants, or opting for hard-to-kill houseplants.

What is powdery mildew?

Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can go unnoticed until the environment is just right. “The spores that cause powdery mildew can be present even if the plant isn’t showing signs,” explains Lindsay Pangborn, a gardening expert with Bloomscape. “When conditions are right, they’ll start to show.” Spores can be carried by the wind, water, and even insects.

So, what’s the optimal environment for growing white mold on plants? “Shade, poor air circulation, high humidity, and moderate temperatures are favorable conditions for powdery mildew to develop,” explains Liebenguth.

In an ideal environment, white powder on plants will flourish quickly. “Powdery mildew tends to thrive in areas of poor air movement that have high humidity during the evening hours and are dry a bit during the day, in a moderate temperature range, usually between 60 and 85 degrees,” says Schmitz.

While all plants can develop powdery mildew, some are more susceptible than others. And there are plant cultivars bred to resist powdery mildew. Though you can certainly buy plants online, it’s worth purchasing from a local garden center or nursery so you can inquire about a plant’s risk. The list below will give you a good idea of the plants most likely to acquire the fungal disease.

Vegetables most likely to develop powdery mildew

• Beans
• Cucumbers
• Peas
• Peppers
• Tomatoes
• Winter squash
• Summer squash, such as zucchini

Flowers most likely to develop powdery mildew

• Bee balm
• Black-eyed Susans
• Chrysanthemums
• Dahlias
• Roses
• Peonies
• Tickseed
• Zinnias

What are signs of powdery mildew on your plants?

Powdery mildew is obvious when it begins appearing on the leavesit’ll look like white dust or white powder. “Powdery mildew is usually seen on the broadest sections of the plants, starting out as small, white, circular spots or discoloration on the plant’s leaves,” explains Pangborn.

As it spreads, you’ll notice changes in the plant. “In its more developed stages, it will completely cover the leaf in a white or gray cast, and the leaf itself will begin to turn brown,” says Pangborn.

Once you see powdery mildew on plants, take steps to halt the fungal growth. If you don’t, the disease can take over and alter the leaves’ ability to take in sunlight. “It harms the plants by shading the leaf surfaces and preventing them from being able to photosynthesize,” says Schmitz. “These leaves can start to become a drain on the plant’s resources rather than contributing to the plant’s overall health.”

Can powdery mildew spread to other plants?

Powdery mildew can spread to the same type or variety of a plant. So if you have several zucchini plants growing in the garden and one has powdery mildew, it’s highly probable that the other zucchini plants will be affected in a short time.

But if you have other plantsflowers or vegetables like peas, for instancegrowing in the vicinity, the fungi won’t spread to them. “Since powdery mildew cannot spread between different plants, it likely won’t take over your entire garden unless you have a monoculture,” says Liebenguth.

How do you get rid of powdery mildew?

There are different ways to minimize and eliminate powdery mildew on plants. The sooner you spot the white powder and take action, the easier it will be to get it under control. “The earlier the infection is treated, the better the chances of recovery,” says Pangborn.

Finding white fuzz on plants is similar to uncovering mold on houseplant soilknowing what to do makes tackling these garden issues a lot easier. As soon as you see powdery mildew on your plants, take the actions below.

Prune the plant

“Pruning off dead leaves and stems, removing them immediately so the spores don’t further spread, is the best first step,” says Pangborn. This will improve airflow, though you may want to take additional steps to boost air circulation.

And keep this tip from Pangborn in mind as you prune: Disinfect your gardening tools to avoid spreading the spores to other plants.

Wash with a dish soap solution

Schmitz offers this genius gardening tip: Once you provide more airflow to the plants, wash the surface of the leaves with a mixture of water and mild dish soap to get rid of the pathogen as best you can.

Use a natural solution

You’d think chemical-based methods would eliminate powdery mildew on plants, but they’re more of a preventative than a treatment. “Most fungicides are preventative rather than curative, so by the time powdery mildew symptoms appear, it will be ineffective to apply a fungicide,” says Liebenguth.

Thankfully, there are nontoxic options for tackling powdery mildew on plants. “Natural remedies for powdery mildew include a baking soda or potassium bicarbonate solution, a neem or horticultural oil application, or removing infected parts of plants from the garden,” says Liebenguth.

Remove infected leaves and plant parts

When removing parts of a plant that has powdery mildew, it’s essential that you don’t toss them in the compost bin, as this can further spread the fungi. “Composting will not kill the pathogens,” says Liebenguth. As Pangborn explains, the spores can survive the composting process, leading to issues when the compost is used in the garden.

So, what’s the best way to remove infected leaves? “Burning infected leaves and stems, if possible, or bagging and discarding them,” says Pangborn. And while you’re getting rid of plant parts properly, make sure to sanitize any tools that have come in contact with powdery mildew.

How can you prevent powdery mildew?

There’s no foolproof way to completely prevent powdery mildew on plants. A good starting point? Consider the needs of each plant, including how much space each varietal needs to grow. Then be sure you’re not creating a welcoming environment for fungi while gardening. “Try not to get the leaves wet when watering plants, and encourage airflow by not placing plants too close together,” says Pangborn.

If your garden is filled with the plants most likely to develop powdery mildew, you may want to take extra steps. “The homeowner may consider applying fungicides preventatively if they have susceptible plants in their yard,” Liebenguth says. “Active ingredients include chlorothalonil or sulfur.”

When powdery mildew does appear, it’s important to properly eliminate the affected plants. “If infected leaves and stems are removed and properly disposed of, there’s a good chance those powdery mildew spores won’t make a comeback the following year,” says Pangborn. “However, spores can blow in from anywhere, so unfortunately there’s no surefire way to avoid it from year to year.”

If all that sounds like too much work and you’re fed up with the powdery mildew on your plants, you can always go with low-maintenance artificial plants that look just like the real thing.

Sources:

• Sam Schmitz, horticulturist with Ball Horticultural Company
• Jessie Liebenguth, horticulturist with Reiman Gardens at Iowa State University
• Lindsay Pangborn, gardening expert with Bloomscape

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The post Here’s What It Means If You See Powdery Mildew on Your Plants appeared first on Reader's Digest.

What is the Bissell Steam Shot?

The Bissell Steam Shot steamer is like a handheld power washer. It operates with a 6.6-ounce water tank that shoots hot steam from its spout and all kinds of attachments. The machine itself is tiny, but it helped me lift gunk thats been there for who knows how long.

Unlike vacuum mops and robot mops, buying a separate cleaning solution isnt necessary. In fact, its even discouraged. Just add distilled water to the tank and youre ready to get steamy.

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Why is the Bissell Steam Shot trending?

On TikTok, the Bissell Steam Shot hashtag has over 10.9 million views. Users, especially those on #CleanTok, say it has solved all their cleaning woes. (Here are more TikTok-approved cleaning tricks.) 26,000 ratings on Amazon don’t lie, either. It might look small, but users love its cleaning power, durability and portability.

How I tested it

I first scoped out a few places for testing, including the bathroom, kitchen and various hidden spots. Once the Steam Shot was plugged in, I had to wait a couple of minutes for it to heat up. Reviewers say to be careful about overfilling the water tank to prevent a household geyser. And after each use, I just dump any extra water to always start the next one with a full tank.

After using the Steam Shot in multiple locations, I found myself looking for even more hidden spots to spray. I was like a detective, searching and steaming anywhere with a speck of dirt. Faucets? Sparkling. Laundry room detergent drawer? Glistening. Glass? Crysal clear. By the end of the week, I’d cleaned every room in the house.

The only thing Im not enthusiastic about is that steaming is only half the job. You still have to wipe away the water and wet dirt to fully clean the surface. Its not a much different process than paper towels and Lysol, but there is less scrubbing, less waste, less chemicals and less dirt.

Do be warned! Steam is hot. After a cleaning session, the machine traps pressure from the steam. To prevent the hot cap from exploding in your face, either let the machine cool off for 10 minutes after unplugging or slowly release the water cap to let the steam out.

Windowsills

What I love most about the Steam Shot is that it helps me tackle even the most hidden (and dirty) places in the house. One of which is the inside of my windows. Mine were almost black with dirt and gross to look at. Since this was my first location, I proceeded with caution.

I had the extension hose attached and lightly sprayed the windowsill. Surface-level dirt started flying everywhere and the more pressure I applied on the trigger, the more dirt that flew. Eventually, I figured out that the extension hose wasn’t necessary, but testing out the different attachments just takes trial and error.

After wiping down the surface, the inside of the windows looked brand new. I even used the steam to remove some years-old dried sticker glue (even homemade cleaner couldn’t get that off).

Bathroom

We already consider the Steam Shot to be one of the best cleaners for bathrooms and kitchens. In the bathroom, I found toothpaste buildup in the sink, shampoo and conditioner puddles in the shower and dirt hidden throughout the toilet seat handles. I steamed everything in sight.

Even with a regular weekly cleaning schedule, it’s amazing what gets left behind in the crevices of the bathroom. For the sake of hygiene, I just used the Steam Shot’s regular nozzle instead of the brushes, which worked perfectly.

Kitchen

For me, the fridge is a hot zone for sticky, crusty messes. I try to clean out my fridge on a weekly basis, but its corners and depths are tough to reach with just a paper towel. In my testing frenzy, I realized some produce had gone bad and left an unsightly mess. The steam left the drawer spotless.

I also aimed it at grease, dried condiments, more produce gunk, juice spills and other food-based stains. I tried to clean my stainless steel appliances but found grease to be a hassle to steam clean. But practice makes perfect!

Bissell Steam Shot features

The machine itself weighs 4 pounds and holds up to 6.6 ounces of water. An included water cup helps measure out the liquid, and Bissell recommends using distilled water.

It’s sadly not cordless, but the 20-foot power cord is long enough to reach high and low spots. Toting it from room to room takes more effort since youll have to unplug it. Ten attachments, including three color-coded round scrubbing brushes, a grout brush, a flat scraper tool, an angled concentrator tool, an extension hose, a fabric steamer and a window squeegee, make cleaning even easier.

I love the Pearl Wasabi color (yes, thats its actual name) as the green matches the gray cord and attachments. Control the water pressure with a steam trigger near the handle.

Pros

• Small handheld steam cleaner
• Portable size
• 20-foot cord
• Includes multiple attachments
• Holds 6.6 ounces of water
• Steam kills 99.99% of bacteria
• Doesn’t need chemical cleaners
• Works on a variety of hard and soft surfaces
• Only around $40!

Cons

• Not wireless
• You still have to wipe away surfaces after steaming
• There’s no water fill line, so it’s hard to tell how much water is inside

FAQ

How long does the Bissell Steam Shot last?

With the size of its water tank, the Steam Shot has enough power for up to 15 minutes of steam. This is also dependent on the pressure and job size.

Can you clean a couch with a Bissell Steam Shot?

Thanks to the strong pressure and the fabric steaming attachment tool, the Steam Shot works on couches and upholstery. It also cleans carpets, mattresses and pet beds.

What not to use a Bissell Steam Shot on

Keep the Steam Shot away from electronics, unsealed floors, water-based paint, porous surfaces and plastic.

What other reviewers/experts had to say

“I ordered this because I kept seeing TikToks of people hyping it up and it honestly did not disappoint!” raves five-star reviewer Hannah. “The tools that come with it allow you to clean literally anything! It is a must!”

“Since my wife got her hands on this, EVERYTHING in my house has been steamed. Windows? Steamed. Stove? Steamed. Entire bathroom? Steamed. Our dogs? Steamed. It is getting hard to see in my house from all the steam. Please send help,” writes Patrick Lagan. “All jokes aside, this is a great tool and would recommend.”

Product comparison

One of the biggest notes reviewers have about the Steam Shot is that they wish it was bigger or held more water. But if you’re looking for something more heavy-duty, steam mops are a great alternative. Granted they only work for floors, but they do leave them sparkling. We recommend the Shark VacMop Pro and Tineco iFloor 3.

Another option is a trustworthy cleaning product and a Scrub Daddy sponge. But take it from me, a steam cleaner will replace every cleaning product combined.

Final verdict

I totally understand the hype and convenience of having a steam cleaner. Steam is an underrated cleaning tool that requires no chemicals or really any scrubbing. It’s an eco-friendly home swap that truly works.

You also can’t beat the price, especially because it’s thorough and effective. It doesn’t take as much room as an upright vacuum, and it’s easy to store. I’m already planning on gifting one to friends and family.

Where to buy the Bissell Steam Shot

For under $50, I could get rid of all my chemical cleaners forever. Do the same by shopping the Bissell Steam Shot fromAmazon and Wayfair. Happy steaming!

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Drawbacks of doorbell cameras

Want a doorbell that doubles as a supersleuth? Well, look no further. Smart doorbell cameras combine your good ol’ doorbell with a built-in security camera system, and plenty of people swear they are among the best-kept home-security secrets on the market. After all, these little gizmos pack a big punch, thanks to their ability to catch mischievous thieves red-handed and provide daily doses of adorable neighborhood animals at the same time.

But before you eagerly hit the “Buy Now” button on that Ring doorbell, know that there are a lot of downsides to doorbell cameras that don’t get as much attention as the tech’s ability to stop porch pirates or capture heartwarming acts of kindness. Personally, I’ve thought about getting a doorbell camera to beef up my home security to prevent burglars and package thieves, but I always come back to the issue of privacy. Should we be concerned about the drawbacks of doorbell cameras, including the possibility of false alerts and their vulnerability to hackers?

To get to the bottom of it, I reached out to cybersecurity experts, who helped me understand what smart doorbell cameras are, the sneaky downsides we all should consider and clever solutions to address these challenges. Whether you’re already a proud doorbell camera owner or are contemplating hopping on the bandwagon, this comprehensive guide will ensure you keep your home (and your privacy!) safe and sound.

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Don’t throw out that dryer lint!

Ever since we started hauling our laundry down to the river for a wash, we’ve needed to dry our clothes. And while eco-friendly line-drying makes clothes smell like sunshine, 80% of U.S. households have a clothes dryer, according to Energy Star. Most Americans run multiple loads per week too. No matter the dryer settings we choose or the type of clothes we wear, that’s a lot of dryer lint! It’s also a lot of waste.

And here’s another issue: Dryer lint from the lint trap and exhaust vent tops the list of hidden home dangers, causing thousands of fires every year. When you learned how to do laundry, did anyone even tell you about the dryer vent? “Most homeowners and tenants diligently clean their dryer’s lint trap after each cycle,” says Kevin Busch, president of Dryer Vent Wizard, “[but] they often overlook the need to clean beyond the screen.”

All that lint doesn’t have to be landfill-bound either. Instead, save it and put it to good use every time you clean your dryer. We’ve got expert tips and other ingenious uses for dryer lint that will make you feel greatand get your lint trap and dryer vent cleaner than ever.

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For one thing, it’s not always apparent when you need to clean the inside of your oven. While it’s pretty tough to avoid noticing the spills and splatters that signal it’s time to clean the stovetop, the inside of your oven is usually “out of sight, out of mind,” says Melissa Maker, a cleaning expert and founder of Clean My Space. “I usually only notice my oven door needs to be done when I’m going to cook something,” she says, “or when turning it on leads to smoking or smelling because something has dripped in there.”

This isn’t ideal, Maker says, and you should try to include your oven in a regular cleaning schedule. Depending on how often you cook and how messy you are, you’ll want to clean the inside of your oven, including the oven racks and glass door, every three months or so.

For many people, the only way they’ve known how to clean the glass oven door is to use their appliance’s self-cleaning function. This basically superheats the oven to burn away any debris. But while a self-cleaning oven sounds great, it has drawbacks: The process can be smelly, and the fumes have even been found to be toxic to some pets, such as birds. It also won’t do as thorough a job. “If you set your oven to self-clean, it will take care of some of the mess,” says Maker. “But it doesn’t get the whole oven door clean, and it won’t remove all the grease and splatters.”

There’s a reason it’s so hard to clean inside oven glass. The glass on your oven door is designed to retain heat, and repeated cycles of heating and cooling bake on any drips or splatters. Adding to the challenge, “you can’t use anything too abrasive because you’re going to scratch the door,” says Maker.

The only thing that makes knowing how to clean glass oven doors tricky is the fact that there are multiple surfaces to clean: outside the glass oven door, inside the glass oven door and even the space in between, where liquids can drip down and streak. Sometimes the very cleaning products you’re using to clean the oven glass can cause these streaks inside by accident. “You really do need to employ the best cleaning techniques to get this done,” Maker says.

While it’s not the most fun task, a gleaming clean oven can be extremely satisfying and keep odors and burnt bits from ruining the food you cook in it. Knowing the best way to clean a glass oven door can help make the job easier, and cleaning experts have figured out how to do just that. Read on for their advice and tips.

How to clean your glass oven door on the inside

Learning how to clean glass oven doors on the inside is a bit trickier than cleaning the exterior of the glass oven window, because more baked-on grease and grime accumulate here. Here are two methods for cleaning them.

The baking soda method

This method may require a bit of elbow grease, but it gets the job done.

Supplies:

• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 3 tablespoons Dawn Ultra Dishwashing Liquid
• Scotch-Brite Dobie or other non-scratch sponge
• A bowl of warm water
• Microfiber cleaning cloth
• The Skrapr

Directions:

1. Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 3 tablespoons of Dawn dishwashing liquid to make a thick paste.
2. Apply it liberally and thoroughly to the inside of a cold glass oven door, Maker says. The dish soap lifts off grease and the baking soda provides a microabrasion to scrub away dirt.
3. Allow it to sit for 20 to 30 minutes. Test a small section of the door using a non-scratch sponge such as Scotch-Brite Dobie to see if the grime scrubs away easily. If it doesn’t, let it rest for another 10 minutes, then check again.
4. Use the non-scratch sponge to scrub away dirt. Dampen a rag in warm water and use that to wipe each section as you go. This helps avoid any of the paste dripping in between the glass and leaving any hard-to-reach streaks.
5. For any stubborn residue, use The Skrapr, which is designed not to scratch glass.

Pro tip: Baking soda leaves quite a bit of residue, so you may need to wipe several times to remove it all, but don’t get impatient and start using a dripping wet rag, as that can leave streaks.

The razor method

Rochelle Wilkinson, owner of Dirt Detective Cleaning in Phoenix, Maryland, likes this method because it lets the products do the work and doesn’t require harsh chemicals. As she says, “It works like a charm.”

Supplies:

• Frosch Cream Cleaner
• Sponge or Scotch-Brite Stainless Steel Scrubber
• A straight razor orEarthstone Kitchen Cleaning Block or other pumice stick

Directions:

1. Liberally squirt Frosch Cream Cleanerall over the inside of a cold glass door.
2. Scrub the glass with a sponge orScotch-Brite Stainless Steel Scrubber.
3. For any stubborn stains that remain, use a straight razor and scrape at an angle away from you, or try the pumice stick on wet glass to gently scrape away grime.

Pro tips: When scraping glass with a straight razor, make sure to hold it at a 45-degree angle to the glass to avoid scratching the glass. If using a pumice stick, make sure the glass is wet for the same reason. You can also use a razor to clean a glass stovetop.

How to clean your glass oven door on the outside

When your glass oven door needs cleaning, you probably focus on the inside, where most of the grease and grime accumulate. But don’t forget that the outside of the glass oven window can get plenty dirty too. Fortunately, this tends to be easier to clean because it hasn’t been subjected to high heat that bakes on grease. Cleaning it doesn’t require a lot of special supplies or effort.

Supplies:

• White vinegar
• Spray bottle
• Scotch-Brite Dobie or other non-scratch sponge
• Warm water
• Microfiber cleaning cloth

Directions:

1. Pour white vinegar into a spray bottle
2. With the oven turned off, spray the outside of the oven door with the vinegar.
3. Scrub thoroughly with a non-scratch sponge.
4. Dampen a cloth with water and wipe the door clean.

Pro tip: For any stubborn residue, use The Skrapr, which is designed not to scratch glass, or a pumice stick.

How to clean between the glass on an oven door

It can be frustrating when, even after cleaning the outside and inside of your glass oven door, you still see streaks and dirt trapped inside. Maker calls these “forever drip marks” and says that to get to them, you may have to take extreme measures. “Be aware that you could void your oven warranty,” she says. Or, to be on the safe side, schedule an appointment with the manufacturer to have them do it for you.

If your appliance is out of warranty, you can clean this yourself, but make sure you first consult the manual that comes with your oven and proceed with caution.

Supplies:

• Your oven user’s manual
• A yardstick and towel, or the Invisible Glass Reach and Clean Tool or Coralpearl Gap Cleaning Scrub Brush
• 2 to 3 tablespoons of Dawn Ultra Dishwashing Liquidmixed with warm water
• Dry towel

Directions:

1. To access the space between the glass on an oven door, one of the most difficult spots to clean on an oven, you will have to remove the door from its hinges. Consult your user’s manual on how to do this.
2. Wrap a long, thin stick like a yardstick with a thin towel and dip it in soapy water. You can also use a tool designed for this, such as an Invisible Glass Reach and Clean Tool or a Coralpearl Gap Cleaning Scrub Brush. Slide this between the panes of glass and work your way up and down the glass oven door until you’ve removed all the dirt and stains.
3. Use a dry towel to dry the inside completely before reinstalling the door.

Pro tip: Some ovens have glass that can be removed, so you can consult your manual, but this might be a job best left to the professionals.

The best oven glass door cleaners

Can you clean really dirty oven doors?

The previously described methods tend to work for most people, but if you’re dealing with an exceptionally messy situation and wondering how to clean glass oven doors, there are still steps you can take. Your first plan of attack is to apply either method and let it sit overnight. If that doesn’t take care of things, try using a razor blade held at a 45-degree angle to gently scrape off stubborn stains. A pumice stick, similar to the kind you use on your feet, will also work wonders. Make sure the glass oven door is wet with water, then test the pumice stick in a small area to make sure it doesn’t scratch the glass. The mild abrasiveness of the stone should remove just about any baked-on food or sauce. A Mr. Clean Magic Eraser will also work. As a last resort, you can always try Easy-Off Oven Cleaner for tough grease stains, but make sure to wear protective gear and have good ventilation when spraying.

How to keep glass oven doors clean?

Of course, you don’t need to worry as much about how to clean glass oven doors if you can avoid spills and stains on them in the first place! The glass in the oven door is in the prime spot to catch any liquids that bubble over or drip as you’re putting something into or taking it out of the oven.

Making sure to use pans that are big enough to account for what Maker calls “bubble over” can help, as will covering any bubbly foods with aluminum foil.

Regularly wiping down the doors, preferably while the stains are still fresh and the oven door is warm (but not hot), can also help minimize the need to deep-clean glass oven doors. Simply wipe the glass down with a dishrag and dish soap before it completely cools down.

Now that you know how to clean your glass oven door, find out how to clean other oft-overlooked but important items, including your faucet heads, toaster and air fryer.

Sources:

• Rochelle Wilkinson, owner of Dirt Detective Cleaning
• Melissa Maker, cleaning expert and founder of Clean My Space

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Luckily, cleaning grout effectively no longer requires the chemicals, scrubbing or frustration of yore. Instead, you’ll need a simple grout-cleaning toolkit (both DIY and ready-to-use solutions likeZep Grout Cleaner are expert-approved) and a solid strategy. Stained or discolored grout can appear anywhere there are tiled surfaces, so weaving grout-cleaning into your overall cleaning schedule is a smart move. Whether you’re considering how to clean your kitchen or how to clean your bathroom, two of the most common areas stubborn grout stains form, just add these expert-approved steps and tips to your to-do list.

What is grout?

“Grout is a mixture of water, cement and sand that is used in a variety of industrial and home applications,” says cleaning expert Mary Gagliardi. “Each grout differs in texture and performance, making it perfect for select spaces inside and outside the home.”

Although there’s a wide variety of use (and colors) for grout, most homeowners employ the product to seal joints between tiles, such as backsplashes, showers and bathroom or kitchen floors. It’s used anywhere you have tile, as it “stabilizes the tile and also protects the surface the tile is applied to from water exposure,” Gagliardi says.

Why should you clean grout?

“Having dirty and moldy grout can make the whole space look grubby,” says Julie McKinney, a microbiologist at Reckitt, which makes Lysol. “Any part of the home that spends time being wet is susceptible to mold buildup, if not regularly cleaned and disinfected.”

The shower is a prime example of a vulnerable spot for stained grout, she says, as it spends most of its days being wet or damp without fully drying out in between uses. Keeping grout free of mold and mildew will not only contribute to a healthier environment (why you should spend some time cleaning shower curtains and cleaning shower headsas well), it’ll also prevent discoloration.

And if you think you’re safe because you’ve chosen a gray or cream-hued grout versus a crisp white, think again, says Gagliardi. “Even colored grout needs regular cleaning, just like white grout, because the same stains are there, they’re just less obvious.”

Tools for cleaning grout

“Because the biggest problem with keeping grout clean and stain-free is mold and mildew, products that contain sodium hypochlorite are great for maintaining grout,” says Gagliardi. There are specific household cleaners and equipment you’ll want to keep in your grout-cleaning toolkit, and the below items are a good start.

• A ready-to-use solution, like Lysol Hydrogen Peroxide Bathroom Cleaner, Zep Grout Cleaner and Brightener, Black Diamond Ultimate Grout Cleaner or a bleach-based cleaner like Clorox Clean-Up Cleaner with Bleach
• Scrubber sponge or toothbrush
• Paper towels
• Rag or towel

Once you’re armed with the right disinfectants and have a fully stocked cleaning shelf (one of the secrets of people who have a clean house), you’re ready to follow these expert-approved steps and cleaning tips for how to clean grout and restore it to its former glory.

How to clean grout

Clear the area

“Regardless of the location in your home, grouted tile is cleaned in the same way,” says Gagliardi. How to clean grout doesn’t vary greatly from room to room, and it always begins with clearing the area of superfluous items, especially in kitchens.

Cleaning agents are strong and can discolor hardwood floors and fabrics, like dish towels, if not sprayed carefully. If you’re cleaning a kitchen sink or backsplash, prep the area first to make sure you’ve removed all food, kitchen utensils and other items before getting down to business.

Start easy

The best way to clean grout is to start with a mild cleaning product, says McKinney. “This is because using bleach (or other harsh chemicals) to clean grout can reduce its longevity.” While she says harsher cleaners may be necessary in some cases, it’s always best to start with something mild and work your way up. The strength of the cleaning product and number of times the steps need to be repeated to fully remove the discoloration will vary based on how solidly the stain has set.

Spray the surface generously

To clean the grout, start off by spraying it with the disinfectant of your choice until it is visibly wet, allowing it to penetrate the soil and stain before wiping it away with a clean cloth or paper towel. “It’s important to note that the success of this method will depend on the severity of the problem,” McKinney says. “If you’re dealing with a serious case of mold in your grout, then you may need to use a stronger product.”

Go stronger, if needed, and let the solution soak

If a gentle approach doesn’t do the trick, a firmer hand may be necessary. Gagliardi recommends sponging a bleach-based solution onto the surface and reapplying as needed to keep the surface wet for 10 minutes. Next, scrub the grout with a scrubber sponge or toothbrush to lift or break apart the stain. Finish by rinsing with clean water and letting the surface air dry.

Use a mildew-specific cleaner

If the stained grout still won’t budge, then you’ll need to tap a heavyweight, concentrated product, like Lysol’s Mold and Mildew Remover. “This offers a bit more force and contains some bleach, which should not only eradicate the mold, but whiten the grout so it looks new,” McKinney says. Using this spray solution is not only a great way to remove stains, but it can also be used simply to make your grout look white again.

For best results, pre-clean the stubborn grout stain with one of the gentler products to get rid of the surface-level grime, then go in with the more concentrated formula to attack the deeper mold.

Repeat as needed

“For highly stained grout, you may just need to repeat the steps a few times to work severe stains out,” says Gagliardi, who warns that while letting a solution soak into a stain for longer than 10 minutes may seem beneficial, it can actually be unsafe for the surface.

Tips for cleaning grout

If you prefer to make a homemade grout cleaner from household items, DIYers can mix their own solution using water and disinfecting bleach (just follow the exact measurements listed on the bottle). Sponge the solution directly onto the grout and scrub with a toothbrush.

As with all methods of cleaning, remember that it’s always easier to keep on top of an ongoing concern, like baseboards or grout stains. McKinney follows the little-and-often rule by spraying and wiping down the surface frequentlyabout once a week, or when the first spot of mildew appearsin order to “keep the need for serious elbow grease to a minimum.”

If you find yourself in the midst of a home renovation, Gagliardi always recommends thinking not just about how materials will look, but how easy they are to care for. “Your kitchen and bathrooms will get dirty, but selecting surfaces that are bleach-safe will pay off in the long run,” she says.

Sources:

• Mary Gagliardi, cleaning expert at Clorox
• Julie McKinney, PhD, director of microbiology at Reckitt

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The post How to Clean Grout and Remove Grime Quickly appeared first on Reader's Digest.

The best refrigerator brands to buy in 2022

What to consider when buying specific refrigerator brands

Whether you’re looking at high-end fridges for your kitchen, inexpensive second fridges for your garage or mini fridges for your basement, there are a few factors you need to consider.

• Brand reputation. There’s a reason certain brands have been a top choice for decades. While it may be tempting to try a shiny new brand on the market, the big brands have years of positive reviews to back up their products.
• Customer service. Even the best fridges may need to be serviced from time to time. When looking at brands, consider how easy or difficult it is to get in contact with them. Try chatting with customer service reps for recommendations and advice before you purchase to determine how friendly, quick and reliable the service is.
• Warranty options. Some brands may only have a one-year warranty on parts and labor, while others have extended warranties for certain parts, like compressors, that are known to wear down after several years.
• Key features. Look for adjustable temperatures, movable drawers and shelves for customization and easy fridge cleaning, and energy-saving functions like LED lighting or Energy Star certification. Also consider freezer position, as well as extras like water dispensers and Wi-Fi connectivity.

How we selected the best refrigerator brands

To narrow down the many options out there, we consulted appliance experts, combed through user reviews and chose products with at least a 4-star rating. We also made sure to choose a variety of options, depending on what you’re looking for.

These are our picks for best refrigerator brands of 2022:

• Best overall refrigerator brand: LG
• Best budget refrigerator brand: Frigidaire
• Best high-end refrigerator brand: Sub-Zero
• Best smart refrigerator brand: Samsung
• Best energy-efficient refrigerator brand: Whirlpool
• Most reliable refrigerator brand: GE

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What mattress sizes can you buy?

There are far more mattress sizes than you’d expect. The most common ones you can find readily available include mini crib, crib, twin, full, queen, king and California king. If you want a bed in a box or one of the best mattresses on Amazon, or perhaps the best memory foam mattress or best air mattress, these standard sizes should be considered first. Others, like the twin XL, can be a little trickier to find, and in some cases like the 3/4 or family size, they have to be custom ordered. Keep reading for a full breakdown of mattress sizes, or check out our mattress size chart for easy reference.

Mini Crib

Dimensions: 38 by 24 inches

Best for: Babies and small rooms

The mini crib size is a relatively new phenomenon. It’s loved because it’s more than a foot shorter than the standard crib mattress, which is ideal if you’re short on space. You can have multiples in one bedroom, the bedroom can double as the playroom and it’s a good solution if the bedroom is simply small. Another bonus: It runs around $70$100 cheaper than the standard size.

Crib

Dimensions: 52 by 28 inches

Best for: Babies and toddlers

While the mini crib is picking up traction, there are still standard options available that make this size of crib mattress appealing. You’ll technically spend a little more, but the extra length means your toddler won’t outgrow it as quickly, which can also save your sanitywhich is priceless.

Twin

Dimensions: 75 by 38 inches

Best for: Bunk beds, daybeds, kids and small rooms

Most bunk beds and daybeds, both loved for how they creatively utilize space in a room, are designed to fit twin-size mattresses. As the most petite standard size an adult can fit on, it’s a great option for smaller rooms regardless of what kind of bed accompanies it. It’s also common for kids to graduate into a twin after they’re out of their crib because it’s big enough to provide them more space and small enough to prevent them from thrashing around all night long.

Twin XL

Dimensions: 80 by 38 inches

Best for: Dorms, split king beds and taller people with small rooms

Who among us doesn’t remember the twin XL in our dorm room? Twin XL is considered the university standard because it’s basically the twin mattress size, but with an extra 5 inches of length. It’s at once space-saving and accommodating. This is also what makes it ideal for taller people with small rooms. Two twin XL mattresses make up a split king bed, which, as the name implies, is a king-size bed split down the middle so two people with different mattress needs can comfortably sleep in the same bed.

Full

Dimensions: 75 by 53 inches

Best for: Solo sleepers with pets or a kid and small rooms

The first step up from a twin/single bed, you can technically fit two adults on a full bed, but it’s better for solo sleepers in small rooms. And if they have pets or a kid they often sleep with? The more (within reason), the merrier.

Queen

Dimensions: 80 by 60 inches

Best for: Standard rooms and average-size partners or single adults with a pet

Of all the mattress sizes, this one is the most common by far. This is because it fits well in standard rooms and can easily accommodate average-size partners or single adults with a pet. No matter what you’re looking for, whether it be the best mattress for back pain, best mattress for side sleepersor best cooling mattress, you’ll find it in the queen size.

King

Dimensions: 80 by 76 inches

Best for: Partners with pets

There’s a reason people look forward to upgrading from a queen to a king, and it’s the impressive 16 extra inches you gain in width to spread out (especially helpful with snuggly pets). And if you’re a solo sleeper who loves to sprawl out and roll around, who says you can’t have a huge mattress?

California King

Dimensions: 84 by 72 inches

Best for: Taller partners with pets

The California king provides an extra 4 inches of length than the standard king size, though you do lose 4 inches in width. For those with a little extra height or pets that insist on snoozing at the foot of the bed, the added length will make such a big difference, they won’t even notice the width.

Less common mattress sizes

If you’re in the market for something highly specialized, there are other options. Just keep in mind that it may be more difficult to find the best sheets and other bedding that fits like a glove.

3/4

Dimensions: 75 by 48 inches

Best for: Antique beds

At first glance, you may not notice that the antique bed you snagged from that estate sale is a unique size, but it isand it’s most likely 75 by 48 inches (aka 3/4 size). Because this mattress is so difficult to find ready-made, it’s typically one you only get when you’re trying to fit a certain bed.

Small Single

Dimensions: 75 by 30 inches

Best for: Kids and extra-small rooms

The small single is the same length as a standard twin, but 8 inches more narrow. It may not be the most comfortable for adults but can definitely get the job done in an extra-small room. Kids can also fit with plenty of room to spare.

Super Single

Dimensions: 84 by 48 inches

Best for: Solo sleepers who need extra space and small rooms

While the small single was like a narrow twin (8 inches less width), the super single is more like a narrow and long full (5 inches less width and 9 inches more length). If a twin just won’t cut it for you but a full is too big for the space you’re working with, try the super single.

Full XL

Dimensions: 80 by 53 inches

Best for: Taller people with a small room and a pet

The difference between the full XL and full-size mattress is 5 inches of length. If you’re on the tall side and want more sleeping space than a twin can provide (whether just for you or you and a furry friend) but can’t quite fit a queen in your room, this is for you.

RV Queen

Dimensions: 75 by 60 inches

Best for: RVs and shorter rooms

When someone with a motorhome or travel trailer says they have a queen-size mattress installed, they actually have an RV queen, which is 5 inches shorter than the standard one. This is because RVs are designed as compact living spaces, so an actual queen can’t fit. Those with rooms that are short on length but not width can take advantage of the RV queen size too.

Olympic Queen

Dimensions: 80 by 66 inches

Best for: Average-size partners in average rooms who want to spread out a little

There’s a 16-inch difference in width between queen and king-size mattresses (60 inches versus 76 inches), and the olympic queen is the closest thing to middle ground. If you and your partner want a bit more wiggle room but can’t fit a king, you should get this one.

RV King

Dimensions: 80 by 72 inches

Best for: RVs and narrower rooms

Motorhomes and travel trailers, the gold standard of compact living, use the RV king because it’s 4 inches narrower than the regular king. You can also use it if you want the length of a king but don’t have room for the full width.

Wyoming King

Dimensions: 84 by 84 inches

Best for: Taller partners with pets and wide rooms

The most popular oversize mattress is the Wyoming king, likely because it’s the smallest. Compared with a king, it’s 4 inches longer and 8 inches wider. Just like with a California king, those who are taller and/or have pets will appreciate that extra length. The real difference, however, is the 84-inch width. If you’re struggling with an extra-wide room, those extra 8 inches will be a game changer proportionally.

Texas King

Dimensions: 98 by 80 inches

Best for: Much taller partners with pets and long rooms

For some, the extra 4 inches you gain in a California or Wyoming king versus a standard king are a game changer. Others may need even more legroom, which is where the Texas king comes in. It’s 18 inches longer than a standard king, allowing plenty of room for youand your cats and dogsto stretch out.

Alberta King

Dimensions: 96 by 96 inches

Best for: Especially tall partners with multiple pets or kids and large rooms

A mattress that’s 8 feet long and 8 feet wide can fit some pretty tall sleepers and then some. Multiple kids or pets can join in comfortably.

Alaskan King

Dimensions: 108 by 108 inches

Best for: Especially tall partners with multiple pets and/or kids and large rooms

The Alaskan king is often considered the biggest mattressand from a length perspective, it definitely is. As a 9-foot square, it also has an impressive width that’s the appropriate scale for a large room. Especially tall partners who usually sleep with multiple pets and/or kids will appreciate all the elbow and legroom this one allows for.

Family

Dimensions: 80 by 120 inches

Best for: Three-plus adults, partners with a couple pets and/or kids, and extra-large rooms

At 10 feet wide, this mattress really can fit a family. We estimate at least three adults, or you and a partner plus one or two pets and/or kids. Note, this size is the same length as a standard queen or king mattress, but it can really fill out an extra-large room.

Family XL

Dimensions: 84 by 144 inches

Best for: Three-plus adults, partners with a lot of pets and/or kids, and extra-large rooms

Can you imagine a bed that’s 12 feet wide? That’s the family XL. You can fit a lot on this mattress along with you and a partner, including a host of pets and/or kids and at least one extra adult. If you have a room that’s closer to the size of a small house, it’ll fit right in.

How to find the right mattress size for you

Room size and layout

Most of the time, it’s obvious whether certain mattress sizes will physically fit into a room. Instead of worrying about a mattress that’s too big, you may need to worry about the opposite: a mattress that’s too small. Some rooms are so large that even a queen or king mattress will look miniscule. If that’s the case, you need to look more at scale to decide which size to get. In addition to size, layout also comes into play. You may find that with doors and funky angles, your bed can only work in one spot. Alternatively, you may have your choice of spots, but your mattress size depends on which you pick.

Number of sleepers

Logic follows that more sleepers require more space. When it comes to the most standard sizes like twin and queen, the number of sleepers a mattress can fit is intuitive. It’s when you get into more specialty sizes like the rare 3/4 or the oversize Texas king that things can get confusing if you’re trying to fit more than two adults. As a starting point, multiply the number of sleepers by the amount of space each person should have.

Size of sleepers

The phrase “it’s all relative” applies well to mattress sizes and the size of sleepers. For example, a full-size bed might be plenty wide for you, but at less than 4.5 feet long, it’s going to be too short for a lot of people. This is why it’s important to pay close attention to the measurements.

Sleeping style

Some people sleep very still, meaning they don’t need much dedicated room to move around and thus don’t technically need a larger mattress. Others would simply fall off the bed if they didn’t have the room to toss and turn.

Height

While length and width are important measurements, so is height. This is due to two things, the first being nightstand height. Nightstands average between 24 and 28 inches. You don’t want the mattress to end up lower than the nightstand, and you don’t want it more than a few inches higher either. Try to have your mattress fall in this range, including your frame and/or box spring.

The other consideration is your cooling mattress pad and sheet pocket depth. Every bedding manufacturer will tell you what this is, and you’ll just want to subtract 2 inches from them to get your maximum mattress heightany higher and your sheets may not stay tucked under. (By the way, we recommend Quince sheets and Sleep Number sheets.) If you’re currently on the hunt for one of the best mattress toppers, make sure your final pick is part of the maximum mattress height.

Price

Generally, the larger the mattress, the more it will cost. In some cases this can be relatively nominal, like the difference between a twin XL and twin-size mattress (around $50). California king and king-size mattresses often cost the same amount.

FAQs about mattress sizes

With so many mattress sizes, there’s bound to be some confusionwhich is exactly what we’re clearing up for you right here.

What’s the difference between a twin and single mattress?

The words twin and single can be used interchangeably for a mattress that’s 75 by 38 inches. Over the years, twin has become the far more common term.

Are double and full the same size?

It’s confusing, but some mattress sizes have more than one name. Regardless of what brand you have, a Zinus mattress or a Sealy Posturpedic, double and full (the name we use throughout) are the same dimensions: 75 by 53 inches.

Can a full-size bed fit two adults?

Yes, a full-size bed can technically fit two adults. At 53 inches wide, that allows for approximately 26.5 inches per person, or a little more than 2 feet. This may not be an ideal amount of space for everyone though, which is why two adults will typically share a queen or larger.

What’s the biggest mattress size?

The Alaskan king and family XL are the two biggest mattress sizes: 108 by 108 inches and 84 by 144 inches, respectively. If you’re looking to maximize length, opt for the Alaskan king, but if you need width, you can’t do better than the family XL.

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Best overall

Bosch 300 Series Dishwasher

There’s a lot to love about the Bosch 300 Series, considering it’s one of the best dishwashers overall. To start, this dishwasher comes from a trusted appliance brand and has all the features for a good price. The cycles run at 44 dBA, meaning this dishwasher is far quieter than a standard conversation.

The third rack increases loading capacity by up to 30%, and adjustable tines and racks make it easy to fit any dishes you need to wash inside. The stainless steel tub is expert-recommended, and the exterior is fingerprint-proof so you don’t have to keep wiping down the surface.

“There are quite a few quality dishwashers from Bosch and GE that are under $1000. Find a dishwasher that has high energy efficiency marks to save money on water and electricity bills,” says Shawn Laib, an appliance expert with Clearsurance.com. “There are some people who want a third rack on their dishwasher. Bosch’s 300 Series has a third rack that fits silverware, cups and other small tools and dishes.”

Pros

• Trusted, reliable brand name
• Spacious and adjustable interior
• Five washing cycles that run quietly
• Third rack for more loading capacity

Cons

• Limited color options available

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The dos and don’ts of cleaning etiquette

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Self-Cleaning Pet Power Brush

One of the best Shark vacuum accessories to add to your cleaning regimen is the self-cleaning pet power brush. Trunz is a big fan of this tool and says it’s “perfect for removing unwanted pet hair from stairs and upholstery.” It is also useful for loosening ground-in dirt or other types of dried stains.

The kit comes with a variety of fine brushes and precision nozzles for pet hair. Another cool feature? The attachment removes hair wrap as it cleans. Plus, it’s compatible with most corded stick vacuums.

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Well, we’ve got some good news and some bad news. The bad news? You have to clean your air conditioner. Air quality goes way down when you neglect your AC. Do you really want dirt, dust and molds blowing around your house? Plus, dirty ACs are inefficient and have trouble cooling, which in these temps is a disaster waiting to happen. You could be shelling out major bucks when your struggling AC conks out.

So, what’s the good news? Learning how to clean a window AC unit is a breeze! (Sorry.) Seriously, it’s not hard at all, and when the temperature’s pushing 100, the last thing you want to be without is air conditioning. If you’re ready to put your window air conditioner on the cleaning schedule, we’ve got expert tips to keep you from making major air-conditioning mistakes that can shorten the life of your air conditioner. Your lungs will thank you too!

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What happens if you don’t clean your window AC unit?

Did you know the average person spends 90% of their time indoors? Michael Rubino, author and air-quality expert, says due to today’s building efficiency standards, we don’t get a lot of fresh air interchange either. And contrary to popular belief, most window air conditioners don’t bring in fresh air from outside. That means that if you’ve got dust and mold spores in your house (and who doesn’t), that junk just recirculates throughout your home if you don’t keep your AC and filter clean.

Rubino says appliances, including window air conditioners, are havens for mold activity, thanks to the abundance of moisture and the food in the form of dirt and dust. Keeping your window air conditioner clean and dry can help reduce the presence of these airborne contaminants.

Both your wallet and your air-conditioner unit will benefit from regular cleanings too. “Not properly maintaining the window AC unit can cause it to work harder to cool the space, increasing [your] energy bill,” says Brad Roberson, president of Aire Serv Heating & Air Conditioning. “And [it] could shorten the life of the unit.”

How often to clean your window AC

How often you need to clean your air conditioner depends on the part you’re cleaning, according to Glory Dolphin Hammes, CEO of IQAir North America. Air conditioners have coils and filters, and both parts need to be cleaned. “The filter needs to be cleaned once a month,” according to Hammes. “The coil should be cleaned annually.”

Start by cleaning it when you take it out of storage, says Roberson. Your window air conditioner sits all winter in a dusty old garage, perhaps even in the window, collecting dust and potentially leaves, mold, animal hair and other debris. Spring cleaning offers the perfect opportunity to tackle the coil and the rest of the interior with a good old deep-clean.

Then, throughout the season, clean the filter and wipe down the exterior. Your AC will thank you.

How to clean a window AC unit

By this time in the season, your AC is probably due for a cleaning. Depending on your level of grime, we’ve got three options for you.

Maybe you stuck it in the window in May and haven’t looked at it once. In that case, it’s probably time for a deep-clean, even if Roberson recommends tackling that task before the season starts. But if you’re just looking for a quick clean and filter scrub, we’ve got you covered too.

How to do a quick cleaning

Even if you started with a clean air conditioner earlier in the spring, dust and dirt build up, causing your unit to run less efficiently. A quick cleaning of the front panel will help, and when you combine this step with filter cleaning, your AC will blast cold air all summer long.

Ready to learn how to clean a window AC unit in a flash? Keep reading.

Gather your supplies:

• Warm, soapy water
• Microfiber cloth
• Vacuum with brush attachment

Step 1: Open the front and remove the filter

Open the front panel door. It may be attached by screws, but it likely just pops open for easy cleaning.

Locate the filter and remove it. Most window units have washable filters that just slide right out, but it’s worth checking your manual. In this heat, the last thing you want to do is break something!

Step 2: Clean the front panel

Start by vacuuming the front panel to remove dust bunnies and loose dirt or dust. Work the brush into the crevices from both sides. For mildly dirty slats, load up your microfiber cloth with warm, soapy water, and wring well. Wipe down the front grille, working the microfiber cloth into the slats to remove grime the vacuum didn’t pick up.

If your front panel is really dirty, remove it entirely and scrub it in the sink. (Then clean your sink so it sparkles.)

Step 3: Clean the filter

Follow the steps below to clean and replace your air-conditioner filter.

How to clean an AC filter

Your air conditioner’s filter is your main defense against dust, dirt, molds and every other gross thing that’s floating around in the air, so even if you don’t feel like cleaning your entire window air conditioner, don’t neglect the filter. Hammes suggests cleaning it monthly, while Roberson prefers checking and cleaning your filter every few days during times of heavy use. Don’t worry, this step’s a snap.

If your air conditioner has disposable filters, washing isn’t necessary. But Roberson recommends replacing them every three months (just like your water filter).

Gather your supplies:

• Vacuum with brush attachment
• Soft brush or cloth
• Dish soap
• Garden hose or sink spray nozzle

Step 1: Remove and clean the filter

Check your manual for instructions on how to remove the filter for cleaning. It may be contained within the front panel or resting right behind it. If the filter is washable, remove it and vacuum using your attachment brush.

Next, soak or spray the filter with warm, soapy water and rinse well. For filters that are reusable but not washable, simply vacuum and replace them.

Step 2: Dry and reassemble

Allow your washable filter to dry thoroughly, then slide it back into the air conditioner.

How to deep-clean a window AC unit

Luckily, you have to deep-clean your unit only once a year. Hammes says it’s easy but requires some elbow grease, so gather your supplies and roll up your sleeves.

If you’re still learning the basics of how to clean a window AC unit, follow Roberson’s advice: The beginning of the season, when you drag your air conditioner out of storage, is the perfect time to do a deep-clean. Whenever you decide to tackle this task, make sure the unit is unplugged before you start!

Gather your supplies:

• Vacuum with brush attachment
• Phillips screwdriver
• Spray bottle
• Dish soap
• Distilled water
• Towel or microfiber cloth
• Soft cleaning brush
• Credit card, butter knife or other thin, dull tool

Step 1: Remove and clean the front panel and filter

Remove the front panel to access the filter and evaporator coils. You may need a screwdriver, or it could just snap off. Remove the filter by either sliding it out from inside the panel or just lifting it out (check your manual).

Wipe down the grille with warm, soapy water, getting into all the crevices with a microfiber cloth. A spray bottle works well for this, but you can even soak the grille in the sink if it’s really gross. Just make sure there are no attached electronic parts when you do.

Wash the filter and set aside both the filter and grille to dry.

Step 2: Remove the housing (optional)

Most air-conditioner manufacturers recommend cleaning the unit without removing the housing, but if your window air conditioner is very dirty or filled with leaves, or if you suspect mold or mildew, taking off the housing may be necessary. Look for screws holding the metal frame to the rest of the unit, and remove them to access the fan, blower motor, drain pan and interior sides of the coils. Save the screws so you don’t lose them! Then move on to the next step.

Step 3: Vacuum the interior

Vacuum the inside, including the evaporator and condenser coils, with your vacuum and brush attachment. The coils will be covered with tiny metal fins, which bend very easily and are sharp, so use caution when vacuuming. Move the brush along the grain of the fins, and use a light touch. If you notice any bent fins, gently straighten them with a credit card or butter knifethey even make special “fin combs” for this purpose.

Step 4: Clean the evaporator and condenser

Fill your spray bottle with dish soap and water. (Hammes recommends distilled water to prevent rust and corrosion.) Put a towel under the coils and start spraying. Gently clean the fins and coils with a toothbrush or other soft brush, moving in the direction of the fins to keep them from bending.

Rinse the coils with plain distilled water. Wipe down the rest of the interior of the air conditioner, including the fan, blower motor and drain pan, with the towel. Check the condensation drain and clear any obstructions.

Step 5: Dry and reassemble

Before you can use your just-cleaned air conditioner, it must be completely dry. Prior to closing it back up, wipe down the interior with a clean, dry towel and allow the coils to air-dry for at least an hour. Reattach the housing and front grille panel, slide in the clean (or new) filter and enjoy the cool breeze.

About the experts

• Michael Rubino is the author of The Mold Medic: An Expert’s Guide on Mold Removal and founder of HomeCleanse, a company that aims to end poor air quality and toxic indoor environments.
• Brad Roberson is the president of Aire Serv, a company with more than 200 locations throughout North America that focuses on heating and air-conditioning installation, maintenance and repair.
• Glory Dolphin Hammes is the CEO of IQAir North America, a Swiss-based air-quality technology company that provides information that allows individuals, organizations and communities to breathe cleaner air.

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What is the waxed paper hack?

It’s so simple: You place a sheet of waxed paper on top of hard-to-see surfaces. Instead of sticking to the tops of cabinets, particles will stick to the surface of the waxed paper. Then, when it’s time to deep-clean the house, all you have to do is carefully fold the sheet up, toss it and replace with a fresh one.

If you have a powerful ceiling fan, or want to place the waxed paper somewhere that may be drafty, use double-sided tape to secure the paper in place and ensure that no dirt or grime can get underneath it.

The sheets of waxed paper should be replaced every three to four months. To help you remember, swap the sheets when you switch out seasonal decorations. For example, top the cabinets with fresh waxed paper when you’re bringing out the pumpkins for Halloween, then do it again when you’re putting away holiday decorations.

To make this kitchen hack more environmentally friendly, wipe the sheet of waxed paper with a damp cloth and then get rid of the dust in the washing machine. You may still be dusting, but at least you don’t have to reach up high to do it.

It works beyond the kitchen too

This hack also works well in low-traffic rooms. You can line dressers and chests in a guest room that don’t see much use. Right before your guests come to town, toss the dusty paper. It’s an easy way to make an out-of-town guest’s visit less stressful.

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Why you shouldn’t crank down your thermostat

There are a few main reasons you should never crank down your thermostat to cool your home. The first, according to Jennifer Amann, senior fellow in the buildings program at the nonprofit American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, who spoke to the Washington Post, is that, “It’s not going to really cool your home any faster.” Shichao Liu, an architectural engineering professor at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts, who also spoke to the newspaper, underscores this point, explaining: “People think, ‘If I make the thermostat set point 60, I’ll get more cooling than a set point at 70,’ but that’s not correct. You get the same amount of the cooling.”

Additionally, every air-conditioning system has a certain cooling capacity. If you set your thermostat to a temperature that exceeds that capacity, your system will just keep running trying to meet it. This puts unnecessary strain on your air-conditioning system, which will shorten its lifespan.

Last, the continuous running of the air conditioner guzzles energy. This hurts the planet and can lead your cooling efforts to backfire. When everyone runs their air conditioners continuously, the power grid can fail, and then you may not be able to use your air conditioner at all.

How to properly set a thermostat

When setting a thermostat, gradual changes make a huge difference. Start by checking your thermostat’s cooling capacity by calling the manufacturer or your landlord. If you can find this number, never drop the temperature lower than it. If you can’t locate the capacity, try to stick to temperatures between 71 and 77 degrees. One 2014 study by the University of Georgia, Athens, found that most people report feeling comfortable at these temperatures.

If you can manage it, try to stick to the upper margin of that range. Co-author of the study and professor of practice emeritus Thomas Lawrence said, “If a person was in their house and they’re going to be there all the time, they could maybe turn up to 76 or 77 or so.” He then added, “People should realize that if it’s really hot outside, having [the thermostat] at 77, 78 or even more, on the inside for a little while still feels good.”

Setting your thermostat slightly higher than you would think to can make a huge difference in supporting our power grids, Amann notes. She encourages those who are away from home to set their thermostat 5 or 10 degrees higher than they would if they were home. One degree of a thermostat increase can save approximately 1% of energy. As such, Amann says, “If everyone who is away from home has set their thermostat so that they’re saving at least 5% of their cooling, then across all the houses that can really make a difference in addressing that peak load.”

Finally, be aware of peak energy-consumption hours. When it’s hottest outside during the afternoon, most people are cranking their air conditioners. As such, this is when the power grid is most strained, so increasing your thermostat by even a single degree can make an impact.

More energy-efficiency tips

First, to get the best cooling out of your air conditioner and save energy, make sure you perform the proper maintenance on your unit. If your air conditioner isn’t working up to par, remember that you can keep your home cool without air conditioning. So before you turn to the thermostat, try these alternative ways to cool your home. They’ll have you feeling comfortable in no time!

Sources:

• Washington Post: “Dont crank down your thermostat when its hot out. Do this instead.”
• University of Georgia, Athens: “Thermal comfort evaluation in campus classrooms during room temperature adjustment corresponding to demand response”

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Best overall

Pottery Barn Belgian Flax Linen Sheet Set

Belgian flax linen is considered a luxury, with unrivaled durability that lasts several generations. Bring home fine generational quality sheets with the Belgian Flax Linen Sheet Set. Experience the incredibly lush softness achieved with special prewashing. Additionally, the prewash provides a beautiful lived-in look and adds to the linen’s light texture.

One of the best bed sheets to own, this sheet set is breathable and cool to the touch making it a viable option throughout the year. The sheet set includes a flat sheet, fitted sheet and two pillowcases and is available in a wide 27-color selection.

Pros

• 100% Belgian flax linen
• Year-to-year durability
• Ideal for warm or cool temperatures
• Specially pre-washed for a super soft feel
• 27 color choice
• OEKO-TEX Certified and Fair Trade Certified

Cons

• Does not include twin size

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Of course, it can be hard to come up with a thorough fall home-maintenance checklist. But having the right to-do list for the season will help you identify what key tasks need to be completed before cooler temperatures and snow make home projects even harder. Consider it a fall reset for your houseand you won’t even need to hire a professional organizer or house cleaner to set your home up for success.

To help you create and carry out your fall home-maintenance checklist, we reached out to a dozen home-improvement experts for advice. Read on for a roundup of all the things to do to prepare your home for fall, and get inspired to create your own fall home-maintenance checklist with these expert tips.

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Drain outdoor faucets and equipment so they don’t freeze

Before severe cold weather sets in, be sure to drain any outdoor equipment that uses water, says Jeff Palla, president of Mr. Handyman. Though this is something every homeowner should check in winter, the task is better done sooner than later.

“Making sure that any outdoor equipment or fixtureslike hoses, sprinklers, pressure washers, etc.are drained completely will ensure that any remaining water doesn’t freeze with the colder weather,” he says.

Why does that matter? As water freezes, it expands, and that could damage the equipment. Removing the water and preventing freezing can save the equipment and help you avoid spending money on replacing or fixing it.

Insulate pipes to prevent water bursts

Wrap the pipes inside your home to reduce heat loss. Go without, and you risk frozen pipes and the plumbing nightmare that is burst pipes.

“Homeowners can simply use pre-slit pipe foam, heat tape or a thermostatically controlled heat cable to insulate their pipes,” says Palla. “Insulation helps prevent pipes from freezing and potentially bursting, which can lead to costly water damage repairs.”

Seal any gaps to keep cold air out

Nobody wants to spend the winter in a cold, drafty house. Not only is that a chilly prospect, but it’s a surefire way to waste money on energy bills. Thankfully, small actions like sealing windows and cracks can help you save on energy costs. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal any air leaks around pipes, doors, windows, chimneys and electrical outlets, says Steve Leasure, vice president of operations at Rainbow Restoration. And consider installing insulated drapes or shades on windows to prevent drafts. “According to the U.S. Department of Energy, drafts can waste 5% to 30% of your energy use due to air leaks,” he says.

David Flax, president of Window Genie, suggests another step to keeping cold air out: Add a layer of plastic over windows and a draft stopper at the base of doors. The plastic covering can create “a DIY barrier, which will prevent cold drafts from entering the home,” he says. “To help with insulating the door, owners can use a ‘draft snake,’ a long piece of material filled with insulating material, at the bottom of the doors.”

Clean your gutters to prevent pests and water damage

Clogged gutters can lead to significant problemsand in fact, they can be a sneaky sign of pest infestation. “Neglected gutters that are filled with leaves, debris and other things can create improper water drainage, potentially causing costly water damage to the home,” says Flax.

Moreover, he says, standing water that remains in gutters can also lead to rotting, mold and pest infestation. “Worst of all,” he says, “when that standing water freezes in the gutters during the colder months, it can cause ice dams, which are extremely dangerous and can irreversibly damage an owner’s gutters, roof and siding.”

Choose decorative details for inventive heat insulation

Have you heard about thermal wallpaper? Prepare to have your mind blown. “It’s an innovative solution that adds extra insulation to walls by trapping heat and preventing its loss,” says Chantelle Hartman Malarkey, an interior designer and blogger. “Installing it strategically throughout rooms will add warmth during colder seasons.”

While you’re at it, consider installing radiant floor heating too. “Radiant floor heating offers energy-saving luxury by placing heating elements directly beneath the floor surface,” she says. Add this to your fall home-maintenance checklist to deliver consistent warmth without the need for traditional radiators or forced-air systems.

Change air filters to improve indoor air quality and save money

Changing the air filters in your home can help maximize airflow and make your indoor air system operate more effectively.

“Since most of us spend about 90% of our time inside during the colder months, it’s essential to monitor your home’s air quality, especially if you or a family member suffer from allergies, asthma or frequent colds,” says Anthony Carrino, a home designer and developer who’s best known for co-hosting HGTV’s Kitchen Cousins. He’s partnered with Trane Residential, which manufactures air-filtration systems.

Beyond air-quality concerns, there’s another reason to change your air filters this fall: Clogged filters increase the energy usage of your HVAC system. Ensure your home has a clean filter every 30 to 90 days to save up to $30 a month, Carrino says.

And be sure to check all your filters. This includes those in furnaces, air conditioners, air handlers, humidifiers and air cleaners.

Remove any mold from the house to reduce childhood asthma

During the summer, homes can become more humid (a silent sign of an unhealthy house), which allows mold to grow. “In a 2021 study, the CDC linked household mold to an increase in childhood asthma,” says Elizabeth Dodson, co-founder of HomeZada, a digital home-management tool.

The potential long-term health consequences are reason enough to stay alert for those hidden signs of mold. And if you realize you’re dealing with a mold issue, act quickly. Yes, mold-remediation companies charge significantly to remove mold and replace damaged walls, Dodson says. But knowing your indoor air quality is safe for occupants makes the price tag worth it.

Set your thermostat to avoid overworking your HVAC system

The ideal temperature for your house may differ from season to season, so be sure yours is set properly as fall arrives. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the ideal home temperature for the fall is between 68 and 78 degrees.

“Keeping the air inside your home closer to the temperature outside will prevent your HVAC system from overworking,” says Carrino. “The energy-saving key is lowering the temperature by about 10 to 12 degrees at night or when you’re away from home.” He says you can save as much as 10% yearly in heating and cooling costs by doing this for at least eight hours of the day.

Make sure your furnace is working for optimal heat

Counting on a warm home this winter? Don’t just hope your furnace is in working order. The best way to prepare a system this fall is to schedule a maintenance appointment to make sure your furnace will work properly in the colder season, says Will Doyle, president and CEO of the heating and energy company Allied Experts. “During the checkup, technicians inspect the furnace and make the necessary adjustments to ensure the system operates correctly and efficiently,” he says.

Clean your fireplace and chimney to avoid emergencies

If you’ll be using your heating system and fireplace in the fall and winter, you’ll want to tend to your fireplace as soon as possible. Inspect and clean your fireplace and chimney before use, says Kyle Barr, vice president of franchise operations at roofing and construction company Storm Guard RC. This will help avoid the buildup of highly flammable creosote in a chimney.

“Creosote is formed when wood burns and can accumulate on the chimney walls over time,” he says. “If not properly cleaned, this creosote can ignite and result in a chimney fire.”

On top of that, fires and fumes from this and burning wood, propane or charcoal can create dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, so be sure all your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors work. These tools save lives, something firefighters really wish more people knew.

Trim tree branches near the house to prevent roof damage

Something homeowners tend to forget is that the weight of ice and accumulated moisture can make branches heavier. “Weak or dead limbs may not be able to support this added weight, leading to breakage and potentially causing serious damage to your roof,” says Barr.

To be on the safe side, Blake Watkins, an ISA Board-Certified Master Arborist and operations partner at Monster Tree Service, says branches should be at least 5 feet away from your roof and siding to help protect your shingles, gutters and paint from damage.

Repair costs for damaged roofs can range significantly, but most homeowners would rather avoid the expense regardless. “If the impact has caused minor damage, such as broken or dislodged shingles, the cost might range from $500 to $1,500,” says Barr. If the damage is more severe and requires significant repairs or even roof replacement, the costs can escalate to thousands.

Restain or seal the deck to prevent damage from freezing

Fall is a great time to have your deck resealed or stained. “After a long, hot summer with the increased traffic, chances are your deck is in need of some TLC,” says Mike Garver, general manager of Handyman Connection.

If your deck is made of composite or is maintenance-free decking, clean the surface with a mild cleaner and a good hose-attached sprayer. “Wood decks may need to be power washed or stripped and new sealer stain applied,” he says.

By sealing the wood before winter, you will help prevent water infiltration, which can lead to freezing, and then thawing damage created by the surface expanding and contracting from the elements.

Plant perennials for returning blooms

As temperatures cool in the fall, it’s a good time to plant perennial flowers in your garden, says Rebecca Sears, chief marketing officer and resident green thumb at Ferry-Morse seed and garden supply company. “Several flower varieties grow particularly well during the fall season,” she says. “But you’ll want to start planting them a few weeks ahead of time, depending on individual maturity timelines.”

First, determine if the varieties you’re selecting grow successfully in your grow zone, which you can find by looking at the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone map. Sears recommends plants that attract pollinators. “Coneflower, for example, is guaranteed to bring birds to your garden, and its striking purple color makes it an excellent border flower.”

As an added bonus, planting flowers that are easily pollinated by local wildlife and will return every year can help you save money on your garden budget.

Prepare your soil for a new season

The best fall gardens grow successfully with refreshed soil. “Using a trowel or a cultivator, till your soil [to a depth of] about 8 to 12 inches, pulling out any rocks or weeds as you go,” says Sears. “Removing spent plants and weeds also eliminates cozy homes for overwintering pests, so a good cleanup will also pay off with [fewer] pest problems the following gardening season.”

After this is done, replenish the nutrients in your soil by adding in compost or fertilizer, then tilling the soil again so that any amendments are evenly distributed. Next, hydrate the soil. For the best results, consider a drip irrigation system, she says, to reduce water usage costs and keep your plants hydrated year-round.

Enclose your patio or balcony to use it in the winter

Believe it or not, you can enclose an existing porch, patio, deck or balcony to use it year-round. “Enclosing your outdoor living space with a patio enclosure is a great way to get more use and enjoyment from your favorite space,” says Melissa Skinner, vice president of marketing at Great Day Improvements.

Add a screen or glass barrier to keep out the elements, and you won’t have to spend time sweeping or dusting for pollen and other allergens. Plus, patio furniture and other items in these areas will keep looking like new for much longer than they would in a typical outdoor space.

About the experts

• Jeff Palla is the president of Mr. Handyman, a company that offers home maintenance and repair services.
• Steve Leasure is the vice president of operations at Rainbow Restoration, which offers home-restoration services worldwide.
• David Flax is the president of Window Genie, a company that specializes in window cleaning, window tinting, pressure washing and gutter cleaning.
• Chantelle Hartman Malarkey is an interior designer and blogger.
• Anthony Carrino is a home designer and developer, co-host of HGTV’s Kitchen Cousins and a Trane Residential partner
• Elizabeth Dodson is the co-founder of HomeZada, a digital home-management tool.
• Will Doyle is the president and CEO of Allied Experts, a heating and energy company.
• Kyle Barr is the vice president of franchise operations at Storm Guard RC, which specializes in roofing and construction.
• Blake Watkins is operations partner at Monster Tree Service, a nationwide tree-care franchise.
• Mike Garver is the general manager of Handyman Connection, a company that offers a range of home-maintenance services.
• Rebecca Sears is the chief marketing officer and resident green thumb at Ferry-Morse, which sells seeds and other gardening supplies.
• Melissa Skinner is the vice president of marketing at Great Day Improvements, a home-improvement company.

Sources:

• U.S. Department of Energy: “Why Energy Efficiency Upgrades”
• CDC: “Most Recent National Asthma Data”
• U.S. Department of Energy: “Programmable Thermostats”

Tips for Owning a Home

Genius Tips for Homeowners

Must-Do Annual Home Tasks

The post Follow This Fall Home-Maintenance Checklist to Keep Your House in Tip-Top Shape appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Let’s put it this way: It’s usually not something you should ignore. “Purple leaves on a tomato plant, while visually intriguing, can actually be a sign of distress,” says professional horticulturalist Amber Noyes.

Thankfully, this early warning sign can help you take steps to prevent your tomato crop from being obliterated. If you follow these expert-approved gardening tips, you’ll know exactly how to save your tomato plants.

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Why are there purple dots on my tomato plant?

A nutrient deficiency is the most common culprit, but it isn’t the only reason your tomato plant’s leaves or stem may start sporting spots or turning purple. That said, it’s essential to diagnose your plant’s specific problem if you want your plant to start producing those gorgeous tomatoes you’ve been banking on.

Phosphorous deficiency

A phosphorus deficiency is the leading cause of purple leaves on tomatoes, according to Noyes. This nutrient is essential for photosynthesis, the process by which a plant uses sunlight, water and carbon dioxide to create food for itself (as well as give off oxygen). How can you tell if this is your plant’s issue? It’s most common in new seedlings and transplants, and you’ll typically see the purple pop up on the stems and the undersides of foliage. You also might also see slow growth, necrosis of plant tissue and curling leaves. But it’s possible to revive a seemingly dead plant with this problem.

How to fix it: Use a high-phosphorus fertilizer on the soil. “The amount you’ll need will largely depend on the results of a soil test, but typically, a balance of 102010 or 153015 (NPK) is suitable for most tomato plants,” Noyes says. “The figures represent the ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, respectively.”

To get the most accurate information on the nutrient levels in your yard, including phosphorus, purchase a soil-testing kit and send a sample to a lab for analysis. Instant-result testing kits are also available, but they aren’t as accurate.

Amateur gardeners can simply use a phosphorus-rich fertilizer according to the package instructions, typically every one to two weeks, until they notice an improvement in the plant’s health. “Once the purple dots disappear,” says Noyes, “continue to fertilize as directed by the product, but at a lower frequency, to maintain optimal plant health.”

Potassium deficiency

Potassium deficiencies also impact photosynthesis. They typically turn tomato-leaf edges brown and the veins yellow, though in some cases, purple spotting can also occur. This spotting is usually limited to the underside of the foliage.

How to fix it: As with phosphorus deficiencies, if a test shows your soil lacks sufficient potassium, you can apply a fertilizer high in this nutrient weekly until the purple coloring fades. Potassium levels are indicated by the “K” on the NPK numbers displayed on the label of all home-garden fertilizers. If you opt for a tomato-plant-specific formula, the potassium level will likely already be higher than it is for a normal fertilizer, so this is the way to go. Giving banana water to your tomato plant may also help, and it’s an easy and affordable option.

Magnesium deficiency

Less commonly, purple leaves on tomato plants can result from a magnesium shortage. “Magnesium deficiency often manifests as interveinal chlorosis, with the leaves turning yellow while the veins stay green,” Noyes says. “If the deficiency is severe, the yellowed areas can take on a purplish hue due to the accumulation of anthocyanin pigments.” Because you see the yellow discoloration first, if you’re proactive, your leaves shouldn’t reach the purple stage.

How to fix it: A natural way to increase the magnesium levels in your soil is to add Epsom salts. Dilute 1 tablespoon per gallon of water, and use this to water the plant soil every couple of weeks. However, do this only if a soil test clearly indicates a magnesium deficiency. Too much magnesium can hurt your plants by inhibiting calcium uptake. And to avoid leaf scorch, never spray the solution directly onto the leaves.

Cold soil

Sometimes your soil can have ample amounts of phosphorus, potassium and magnesium, but you still see purple leaves on your tomato plants and other symptoms consistent with a nutrition deficiency. In these instances, cold soil might be causing your problems. According to Noyes, cold soil inhibits the uptake of phosphorus and other nutrients.

Tomatoes are heat lovers, and a soil temperature of 65 to 75 degrees is ideal. When the soil drops to below 50, you’ll likely see stunted growth, and alongside discoloration, the foliage can wilt and experience surface pitting or lesions. Flowers begin to drop, and if your plant produces any tomatoes, they are unlikely to be the most flavorful.

How to fix it: “One way to combat this is through soil solarization, a method where you cover your soil with clear plastic and allow the sun to heat it over several weeks,” Noyes says. Alternatively, “adding compost or organic matter can also naturally raise the soil temperature.” Or you can try adding plastic or fabric mulch to trap heat in the soil, a method that kills weeds too. Regularly test temperatures using a soil thermometer; you can remove coverings once the ground is warm enough.

Too much sun

Tomatoes are fruits that love the sun, and they appreciate at least six hours of bright light daily. However, long days of intense sunlight during scorching weather can result in tomato sun-scald. The tomatoes crack and turn white or blotchy yellow, and the foliage tips can brown and curl. Sometimes the leaves turn red or purple. Purple leaves are especially common in delicate young seedlings.

How to fix it: Use a shade cloth to gently cover the plants if temperatures rise above 85 degrees. Or move the plants to an area where they still receive ample sun but not so much in the intense heat of the afternoon.

Genetics

Sometimes, purple leaves on tomatoes aren’t anything to worry about. “Genetics can play a role in the coloration of tomato plants, with some varieties naturally producing a more purple hue on their leaves, such as the Indigo Rose or Black Krim,” Noyes says. In that case, there’s nothing to fix because there’s nothing wrong!

Tomato spotted wilt virus

Tomato spotted wilt virus is an increasing problem in the United States. The disease starts with dark brown or purple spots or veins on the foliage. Later, these spread to the stems and form necrotic cankers, which eat away at your plant until it dies.

This disease is transmitted by pestsspecifically, at least nine different thrip species. These tiny winged insects, also known as thunderflies, don’t just transmit this virus; their feeding habits also directly damage fruit, foliage and shoots, giving plants an untidy appearance.

How to fix it: Unfortunately, this disease is incurable. It’s best to remove infected plants immediately to prevent spread.

How long will it take for these treatments to work?

The purple leaves on your tomato plants may or may not green up with appropriate nutrients, warm soil and the right amounts of sun over a few weeks. The timing depends on the extent of the damage, the plant’s overall health and the general growing conditions. Also, keep in mind that while new leaves should be a healthy green, seedlings subjected to cold soils or poor nutrient levels for prolonged periods of time could remain stunted and produce inferior fruit.

Of course, if you aren’t seeing any changes after a few weeks of treatment or the situation is getting worse, your plant could be beyond saving. Sometimes, it’s better to cut your losses and start germinating a fresh, healthy batch of tomato plants, making sure to offer the right conditions from the beginning.

How to prevent tomato leaves from turning purple

As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and that’s very true when it comes to purple leaves on tomatoes. To avoid unsightly spots and unhealthy crops, Noyes recommends being proactive with the following gardening tips:

• Regularly test your soil to ensure the nutrient levels are right.
• Pick a site where the soil won’t be too cold and the sun levels are appropriate.
• Monitor plants for disease-spreading thrips, and if you spot them, use insecticidal soap to remove them promptly. How can you identify them? Thrips are yellow, brown or black elongated winged insects around one-eighth of an inch long. Telltale signs that you have the start of an infestation include dried brownish-black poop spots on the underside of foliage and scarring on the leaves. If you tap the plant’s leaves while holding a piece of white paper under it, thrips may fall onto it.

What else should you keep in mind about growing tomatoes?

Of course, knowing how to prevent and treat purple leaves on tomatoes isn’t the only thing you need in your gardening repertoire. Here are a few other tips for nurturing happy and healthy tomato plants.

• Know your planting calendar, and grow tomatoes outdoors only after the danger of late-spring frosts has passed in your region. Alternatively, grow them in a protected greenhouse.
• Plant in loamy, well-drained soil.
• Pick a site that offers six to eight hours of sunlight.
• After testing the soil to establish the right formula, offer regular fertilizer to these heavy feeders.
• Select cultivars (human-developed plant-species varietals) best suited to your climate.
• Thin out seedlings when they are around two to three weeks old so the remaining plants have ample airflow and room to spread. Ideally, there should be 12 feet of space between individual mature plants.
• Water plants deeply and regularly to provide consistent moisture, easing up once fruit appears.
• Plant deeply, and stake tall plants for extra support.
• Don’t plant in beds that have had other nightshade family members, such as potatoes or peppers, in them over the last couple of years. Plant rotation using different crop families helps produce better harvests by disrupting pest and disease life cycles and improving soil nutrients and fertility.

About the expert

• Amber Noyes is a horticulturist and the editor of Gardening Chores. She has a master’s degree in horticulture from the University of California and a BS in Biology from the University of San Francisco.

Sources:

• University of Maryland Extension: “Key to common problems of tomatoes”
• Clemson Cooperative Extension: “Tomato diseases & disorders”

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The post If You See Purple Dots on Your Tomato Leaves, This Is What It Means appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Roundfire Concrete Tabletop Fire Pit

There is a lot of hype regarding The Original Roundfire and it’s easy to see why. This smokeless tabletop fire pit is small and has a smokeless flame generally ranging from 6-12 inches. Moreover, its near-handheld and manageable size complements its weighty concrete build. There is no doubt that this is a fantastic gift for campers and other lovers of the outdoors.

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Best overall

Saatva Latex Pillow

Saatva combines latex, organic cotton and down-like micro denier fibers into one of the best pillows for stomach sleepers. With a soft, breathable cover and responsive head and neck support, this hotel-quality pillow hits our list as the best pillow for stomach sleepers overall.

Peeking into the pillowcase, we find a breathable cover made with organic cotton that wicks away moisture for cooler sleep. The gusseted sides help maintain the shape of the pillow night after night and the thin profile remains plush and adaptive enough to compress under the head so you’ll never greet the morning with kinks in your neck.

While the latex core isn’t washable, the fill layer and cotton cover are machine-washable and dryer friendly.

Pros

• Thin profile protects against neck kinks
• Organic cotton wicks away moisture
• Plush but compresses easily
• Hypoallergenic core

Cons

• Latex may be disagreeable for some
• Only the outer layer is washable

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What is the Thermacell mosquito repellent?

A Thermacell is a mosquito-repelling device. It’s available in either fuel- or battery-powered options, each using heat to activate a repellant-soaked mat and promising coverage areas of at least 15 feet. Both types of Thermacell work continuously and reach maximum power in 15 minutes, but you’ll notice their effects in mere minutes.

My personal favorite Thermacell, the MR300 portable mosquito repeller, is the fuel-powered kind. It’s relatively small in size, only 8 inches long and weighing 6 ounces, making it convenient to travel with. It offers a handle for easy carrying and a clip to attach to a belt loop or backpack. Plus, it comes with a 12-hour fuel cartridge and three four-hour repellent mats.

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Why I love it

I’ve camped in some truly mosquito-infested locationsincluding a handful of summer trips to northern Minnesota with lots of standing water, and thus, swarms of mosquitos everywhere the eye can see. Bug sprays are the common choice for keeping pests at bay, but they don’t have a pleasant feeling on the skin and they’re full of chemicalsplus, spraying them when other campers are around is a rude camping habit. Mosquito-repellent clothing is another option, but it’s a pain to purchase a whole new wardrobe just because of bugs.

Since receiving my Thermacell MR300 as a camping gift three years ago, it’s become a permanent part of my must-pack checklist. That’s because it’s completely silent, scent-free and doesn’t disturb me or other campers in the slightest. Once I turn it on, I can trust the swarms of bugs will be completely gone within 15 minutes, and it only takes a few minutes to make a difference. It’s basically a camping hack, because it takes the best part of bug spraythe relief from pestsand eliminates all the annoying side effects.

I’m also a big fan of my Thermacell’s portability. I can easily attach it to my hiking pack for relief when hiking through dense forests and around lakes where mosquitos love to hatch. Since the fuel works for 12 hours, and the repellent lasts for four, I can take it along on long walks without hurrying back to my campsite for a refill or stopping mid-camping activity to re-up on bug spray. And I can turn it on and off, so when mosquitos subside I don’t have to needlessly waste the Thermacell’s power.

Swapping in a new repellent mat or fuel cartridge couldn’t be easier. You’ll know when the mat needs replacing because its vibrant blue color will begin to turn white. When that happens, just slide a new mat under the cage-like grillit’ll knock the old mat outflip the switch to “on” and push the Start button a few times. You’ll know the device is working properly when the window at the top shows a glowing orange light. You can monitor fuel cartridge usage from a small window, and swapping the cartridge is as simple as pulling the bottom of the device, twisting out the old cartridge and replacing it with the new one.

Since the mats and replacement cartridges are small in size, they’re convenient to carry for car campers and RV campers alike. With the Thermacell, you’ll never get stuck in a swarm of bugs with an unexpectedly empty bottle of bug spray again.

After three years of using my Thermacell MR300, I wholeheartedly recommend it for beginner campers, seasoned pros and even glampers. It’s been a lifesaveror at least a trip-saveron dozens of buggy adventures. In fact, without the Thermacell, I may have given up on camping a long time agoso thanks, Thermacell, for making my favorite hobby easier, more enjoyable and more accessible for anyone who doesn’t love getting eaten up by mosquitos (but if you do happen to find an errant bite, try the editor-approved Bug Bite Thing for immediate relief).

But don’t take my word for it!

I’m not the only camper who won’t travel without a Thermacell. These fellow camping enthusiasts can attest to Thermacell’s near-magic abilities.

“I have been using this product for six years,” writes Amy G. on Thermacell’s website. “[It’s the first] and only thing that has kept me free of mosquito bites in my 62 years. I hate to say this, but you could charge a lot more.”

“We purchased this and I can now hike in the forest bite-free!” writes River on Thermacell.com. “I am extremely allergic to bites. I hate using DEET because it gets on my clothes and whatever I touch. I can stand outside and visit with neighbors and actually prevent mosquitoes for those closest to me. It seems to deter no-see-ums and deer flies, too.”

You can shop the Thermacell MR300 directly on Thermacell’s websitefor $25, as well as on Amazon (where you can find lots of discounted camping gear), Walmart, Chewy and Scheels. Take it from meyou won’t want to spend another bug-infested minute outdoors until you upgrade to a Thermacell mosquito repellent. Bye-bye, bug bites.

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Make sure you have these in your kitchen

While there are certain items that should always be kept in the kitchenpots, pans and knives, to name a fewthere are plenty of others that are extremely useful that you may not think of storing in the heart of your home. “When it comes to keeping items handy in the kitchen, non-kitchen items may prove invaluablefor instance, keeping chalk handy can be useful,” says lifestyle blogger Chantelle Hartman Malarkey.

Even beyond the chalk, you might consider these hacks extraordinary uses for household staples. That’s because these handy items solve all sorts of common kitchen conundrums. So read on for all the kitchen hacks that use unexpected items and are just as handy as unconventional aluminum foil uses, surprising uses for coffee or household vinegar uses.

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The post Why You Should Keep Chalk in Your Kitchen—and 11 Other Surprisingly Handy Items You’ll Use All the Time appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Best overall

Nesco Deluxe Food VS-12 Vacuum Sealer

The Nesco Deluxe is one of the best vacuum sealers that offers the perfect all-in-one solution to keep food fresh. It has three settings: dry, moist and double heat seal. You can choose between normal or gentle pressure to prevent more delicate items like cookies, crackers and cereal from breaking up under the vacuum’s force. There is also a pulse option that provides greater control over the entire process to ensure that food remains intact.

The user-friendliness of this machine is exceptional. It offers easy locking and unlocking mechanisms, along with a timer that counts down when manually sealing items. Additionally, it has an accessory port to conveniently attach a hose (sold separately) for suctioning extra air from jars and canisters. Another standout feature is its built-in storage for suction bags and integrated bag cutter, which allows you to create perfectly sized bags for any item.

Pros

• High-quality multi-use machine
• Lightweight
• Ideal for fragile food
• Two vacuum sealer bag rolls included
• More than 6,800 five-star ratings on Amazon

Cons

• Some reviewers say it’s noisy

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We asked brassiere pro Antonia Gladney, director of team development for Bra Genie lingerie boutique in Southeast Louisiana, for advice. She knows the best bras for every body type (from bralettes to sports bras and beyond), plus how to wash a bra so it stays good as new. We told her that we’re up to date on how to do laundry and how often to wash jeans but are puzzled when it comes to how to hand-wash clothes and, in particular, how often you should wash your bra. She answered all our questions and went on to reveal the cardinal sin of bra care: “Do this,” she told us, “and you’ll degrade the elastic so your bra wears out super fast.”

Curious? Then read on for Gladney’s tips for caring for your bras, as well as the advice of a board-certified dermatologist on skin-care issues that can arise from wearing dirty bras. You’ll be surprised by what she has to say. (No, she’s not going to talk about what happens if you don’t wash your feet. But you really should look into that.)

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What happens if you don’t wash your bra?

How often should you wash your bra? We’ll get to that, but first, you’re going to want to learn what happens when you skip a washing (or a dozen). The info below will be the motivation you need to launder your favorite T-shirt bra, stat.

It gets smelly

Unless you’re wearing the wrong bra size, your bra should fit snugly against the body. This causes a buildup of body heat, which produces sweat. And let’s face it: Sweat stinks, especially if it stays on a piece of clothing for repeated wearings. Talk about a great reason to pay attention to how often you should wash your bra.

Dead skin piles up

Humans can lose 500 million skin cells a day. Some cells, like those on the hands, fall off when washing. Those on the breasts, however, don’t have any place to go but onto the bra that supports them. They cling to the fabric, which accumulates more layers with each subsequent wearing. Ick! Knowing how often you should wash your bra is getting even more important.

Bacteria grows

As sweat, dead skin cells and body oils build up, bacteria grows. That’s as good a reason as any to give your strapless bra a good wash after dancing the night away in it at the club.

“It’s important to wash bras frequently to prevent the growth of yeast and bacteria that thrive in dark, moist environments,” says Christel Malinski, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Lacombe, Louisiana. “Especially in the summertime, sweating and heat can trap moisture in the breast/bra area and cause infections and rashes.”

You develop skin issues

Washing athleisure sounds like a pain, but boy is it essentialas is ditching your sweat-soaked clothing as soon as possible. So make sure you change out of a wet bra after exercising or outdoor activities. “Prolonged moisture and friction can break down skin and create easy access for yeast and bacteria,” says Dr. Malinski.

While there are topical products that reduce sweating and create a protective barrier on the skin, your best bet is making an appointment with a pro. “Seek dermatologic care if a problem arises,” she says. “Avoid self-diagnosis and treatment, as this can often further compound the problem. A board-certified dermatologist can write prescriptions to help treat and prevent future skin problems.”

You wear out your bra faster

If you find yourself constantly replacing stretched-out bras or new bralettes, heed Gladney’s advice: “You don’t want to wear the same bra two days in a row,” she says. “When you wear your bra, you’re stretching it out, so you want to give it at least a day of rest in between wears so it can conform back to its original shape.”

Does that mean you always have to wash your bra after wearing it? Not necessarily. But it does make a good case for avoiding back-to-back wears of an unwashed bra. “Obviously, the more bras you have in your rotation, the longer your bras are going to live because you’ll wear each of them less frequently,” Gladney says.

How often should you wash your bra?

A good rule of thumb is washing your bra every three to four wears, according to Gladney. (A wear usually means a full day or most of the day.) “The exception being if you are participating in an activity where you get extra sweaty or dirty,” she says. “Then, you want to wash it immediately following that.”

How often the average person washes their bras is a matter of debate, but in a Slate writer’s (very informal and unscientific) survey, about a third of respondents said they washed their bras every two weeks.

Should you hand-wash bras?

“As bra fitters, we always recommend hand-washing,” says Gladney. “It is the way to give your intimates the longest life possible.”

If you insist on machine-washing some of your bras, that’s fine. But don’t toss molded or underwire bras in with your loadyou should always hand-wash and air-dry those. In a washing machine, molded bras can become misshapen, and underwire bras can get bent, twisted or moved in ways that make them uncomfortable to wear.

When it comes to washing products for bras, Gladney recommends using those specifically made for lingerie (although anything that is gentle enough for baby clothes is OK for lingerie). She is passionate about Soak, a no-rinse product for hand-washing lingerie, and Forever New, which you can use for both hand-washing and machine-washing bras.

She advises clients to stay away from Woolite when washing lingerie. “It’s for wool, for natural fibers, and your bra is synthetic,” she says. “Also, shy away from some of the best laundry products, like Tide and Gain, which could be harsh and too perfumey for bras.”

How to wash your bras

Washing recommendations vary depending on the type of bra, so check the laundry symbols on the care label and follow the directions. Though Gladney recommends hand-washing all bras, you can get away with machine-washing bras that don’t have molded cups or underwires. (Remember, those need hand-washing!)

When you’re done washing, resist the urge to toss your bra into the dryer. To make your bras last, you need to air-dry those puppies.

Hand-washing bras

Step 1: Fill a basin (or small wash pan) with cold water. You can also wash your bras in the sink, provided you’ve cleaned it first; just plug it up and run some water.

Step 2: Add your laundry detergent. Swish the water to distribute the washing product.

Step 3: If the bra has a stain, work a small amount of laundry product into the stain.

Step 4: Allow the bra to soak according to the directions on the label. This should take about 15 minutes, but more soaking won’t hurt anything.

Step 5: Empty the wash pan or drain the water out of the sink.

Step 6: Fill the wash pan or sink with cold water. (Skip this step if you’re using a rinse-free product like Soak.)

Step 7: Gently squeeze the water through the bra to rinse it.

Step 8: Let the bra dry completely. “Always air-dry bras,” says Gladney. “Hang the bra to dry or lay it on a towel on a flat surface.”

Machine-washing bras

Step 1: Fasten the hooks on the bra.

Step 2: Place the bra in a mesh bag to prevent the hooks from catching on other clothes and to keep the bra from winding around the cylinder (if your washer has one).

Step 3: Set the washing machine to the delicate cycle and the cold wash-and-rinse option.

Step 4: For a top-load washer, add the laundry product when the tub is filled with water. For front-load washers, add it to the automatic detergent dispenser as usual.

Step 5: Place the mesh bag into the washer and start the wash cycle.

Step 6: At the end of the cycle, take the mesh bag out of the washer and remove the bra.

Step 7: Let the bra air-dry, either hanging it or laying it flat. “The No. 1 cardinal sin is to put a bra in the dryer,” says Gladney. “It is going to degrade the elastic, which will wear it out super fast. It can also cause molded cups to dimple.”

How to store your bras

It’s not enough to ask “How often should you wash your bra?” or even “How do you wash a bra in the first place?” You need to understand proper storage if you want to keep those cups looking like new. That may mean rethinking your organization strategy for certain types of bras.

“Non-molded, lightweight bras can be folded without causing any problems,” says Gladney. “Molded bras, however, should be stored flat, stacked one on top of the other, or hung from a hook or even a doorknob. Never invert the molded cups to store one cup inside the other. It will cause a crease to form in the inverted cup, malform the cup and form an outward-leaning lip at the top line of the bra that shows under your clothes.”

Sources:

• Antonia Gladney, director of team development for Bra Genie lingerie boutique in Southeast Louisiana
• Christel Malinski, MD, board-certified dermatologist in Lacombe, Louisiana
• American Chemical Society: “The skinny on how shed skin reduces indoor air pollution”
• Slate: “Bras Are the Demons of the Laundry PileSo Wash Them as Infrequently as Possible!”

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