Run ceiling fans counterclockwise in the summer to optimize energy use. Switch to the opposite direction in the winter. — Bob
Apply toothpaste to stop itches caused by mosquitoes. Maybe this will be the year of no mosquitoes? — Verna
If you do not own an air-conditioner, hang a bed sheet over an open window and spray it with water. The result is evaporative cooling and very helpful during hot summer days. — Bob
Chew peppermint gum to reduce the chance of car sickness. — Alanda
Sprinkle coffee grounds outside near doorways. Coffee’s high nitrogen detracts bugs, so they won’t walk across it and into your home. — Alanda
Add bathtub appliques to the bottom of kiddie pools to add grip to the bottom of the pool. — David
As a way to decorate for an outdoor party and keep drinks cool, I fill balloons half full of water. Freeze the balloons and add them to a bucket to keep drinks cool. — Sandra
For tender meat, add salt about 30 minutes before grilling. — Chef John
Fill clean spray bottles with cooled green tea. Chill in the fridge, and spray on yourself for refreshing, body cooling relief. — Sandra
To hull strawberries, use a straw. Hold the strawberry stem-side down and poke a straw into the bottom of the berry. Push it all the way through until the stem pops out the other side. — Marc
After a day at the beach, sprinkle baby powder over arms and legs. Sand will brush off easily, making cleanup quick. — Alanda
Clean the grill with foil, scrunch up some foil to about the size of a golf ball. Using tongs, scrape the foil ball over the hot grates to remove all the charred bits and greasy grime. Once you’re finished, brush the grill with oil so it’s ready to go for next time. — Denise
Stick a mini thermometer to the inside of your cooler, this can help you gauge how warm your food’s getting — and when you’re better off tossing it, for safety reasons. — Oliver
When barbecuing always pat your meat dry on both sides with a paper towel before grilling. Wet meat won’t sear. — Chef John
Make your trampoline safer by cutting up a pool noodle and covering the springs of the trampoline with sections of pool noodle. — Elaine
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.
Have a great suggestion or tip? Please send an email at: info@reena.ca. Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website: reena.ca.
