Question: Do you think it is important to unplug a toaster when leaving your home? Charlotte
Answer: Yes, and not only the toaster, but all small appliances and electronics including toaster ovens, curling irons, coffee makers, tools, kettles etc. Also, walk through your home, garage, and shed and examine all electrical cords to make sure they are not frayed, and that nothing is sitting on top of the cords to avoid any fire hazards.
Question: What should I use to clean the iron grills on my gas oven? Ethan
Answer: To clean cast iron grills on a gas cooktop check your manufacturer’s manual for the recommended cleaning procedure. I either scrub them with an SOS pad and dish soap and water or wash them in the dishwasher. While many people advise against full submersion, I have never found a problem with my own grills. For that once a year really intense spring cleaning, many people opt to clean their grates with ammonia. Place grate into a plastic bag; add about 1/2 cup of household ammonia. Seal bag and leave for eight hours. Remove grates from bag, scrub with water and an SOS pad.
Helpful tips
Re: Foot Odour
If you experience excessive foot odour, make an appointment with a physician, and seek medical advice, the solution might be simpler than you think! In the meantime, head over to a store such as Marks Work Warehouse or a sporting goods store and purchase the best moisture wicking socks you can find. Canadian Footwear sells a small jar of ointment that you rub onto your feet once a week. It is said to be very effective. — Merle
I have two suggestions which might help with foot odour. One, change your shoes regularly, letting them air dry between uses. This might take two or more days. When the shoes are completely dry any bacteria that might have been growing in them should have died. Bacteria thrive in dark and wet areas which cause odour. Secondly, wear only socks that have greater than 50 per cent cotton in them. Cotton is a natural absorbent. — Desiree
Secrets of essential oils
Instant air freshener; put a few drops of your favourite essential oil in the middle of your toilet paper roll.
Essential oils are great for adding warm fragrance to a locker room, shoes, boots, and carpets. Simply sprinkle a few drops on textiles.
Sprinkle essential oils onto cotton balls and tuck them underneath your garbage bags in garbage cans around your home.
Sprinkle essential oils around the light fixtures in your home. When the lights turn on, the heat cause the oils to smell.
When designing artificial plant displays in your home, add a few drops of essential oils to the leaves and vase to give off a fresh scent.
Rub lemon essential oil onto a grease stain before tossing it into the washing machine.
Put drops of essential oils onto a piece of toilet paper. Vacuum the toilet paper and the room will smell great.
Orange essential oil is an effective spider repellent.
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. Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website: reena.ca.
info@reena.ca
