Ian Lindsay / Vancouver Sun files
Bamboo floors, such as this one, are part of the trend to 'green' products.
Question: We have new bamboo floors in our home, what should we use on the floor to clean them? — Emily
Answer: Not only are bamboo floors beautiful, they are also easy to maintain. Professional cleaning products such as Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaning kits may be used for maintenance and daily cleaning. Many people use microfibre mops, make sure to only slightly dampen the mop (too much water will damage the floor over time). Vacuum and mop the floor regularly. Wood floor cleansing agents should be diluted in water before use.
Never wax your bamboo floor. The urethane-based finish is designed to protect your floor for years. Wipe up any spills immediately. Protect your floor from everyday use by installing felt or plastic protectors under the "feet" of furniture. Caster-wheeled chairs should have wide casters. Beware of high heels: these can damage even the toughest flooring material. Through personal experience, I have found that bamboo floors harden over time; at first, they scratch easily, but eventually become more durable and scratch less.
Question: I am having trouble getting the smell of cauliflower out of my fridge. I have washed it with vinegar, and now have a dish of lemon juice and vinegar in the fridge; I also have two boxes of baking soda. Would appreciate any help, as the odour is horrendous. Thanks! — Lois
Answer: All you need is cake and coffee. Well, maybe I better explain what I mean.
We all know that cauliflower is a healthy veggie, personally I love it served hot with sautéed bread crumbs poured over top. This yummy winter tree delight contains a powerful phytonutrient called sulforaphane, which helps the body’s natural defence systems protect against disease. In the meantime, the same sulphur compounds that are good for us gives off an unpleasant smell, which is what you are now battling.
Use the vanilla you bake cake with to wipe down the fridge (the first step in freshening the fridge). Next, pour coffee grounds onto an open plate to absorb any lingering odours. The fridge should once again be a welcome part of your home.
Other options are to leave a bowl of charcoal briquettes in the fridge or pan of kitty litter (you will still need to wipe the walls and shelves with vanilla).
Note: Every user assumes all risks of injury or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first.
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