Silver and Gold Magazine Winter 2018/19 | Page 10

HOUSEHOLD TIPS + TRICKS Change your toothbrush every three months to avoid fungus and bacteria that accumulate in the bristles, as it’s very difficult for brushes to dry completely in a quick period of time. If you’ve been sick, soak your toothbrush in warm water with baking soda. Keep your cling film in the refrigerator to make it more cooperative to use! Home-made Goo Gone! Stir together 1 part vegetable oil with 2 parts of baking soda and make a paste. Use a small face cloth to apply and rub until the residue releases from the surface. Wash off with soap and warm water. Remove fingerprints from stainless steel appliances by using dry flour – Just put it on a soft cloth to buff up. Then wipe it off and you should see a fresh shine. Shine up your black dress shoes by using a banana peel – it works wonderfully! When using piping bags for decorating, place them into a glass or cup to make it easier to fill them and also to set them down once filled. – Photo: Creations By Kara If you’re keeping a bit of left-over paint, add a few marbles in an empty water bottle, adding your paint inside after. When you’re ready to use the paint for a touch-up project, simply shake the bottle and the marbles will mix the paint very well! – Photo and tip: Ron Hazelton Keep mice away by having a few peppermint plants in strategic areas of the house. Alternatively, spray diluted peppermint essential oil – mice depend on their sense of smell (they’re eyesight is terrible!) and peppermint is very potent, which irritates their nasal cavities. peppermint for (almost) everyone! Peppermint has many benefits*, including: Make a tea to treat flatulence, diarrhea and nausea, muscle pain, and indigestion. It has great calming effects, aiding in relaxation and anxiety. Steamed leaves can be crushed and applied on the forehead to fight tension headaches. It keeps many insects away, including spiders, mites, mosquitoes, moths, and centipedes. When added to shampoos, it could help regrow hair. *PRECAUTIONS: Peppermint should not be ingested by people with GERD (Gastoesophageal Reflex), diabetes, or hernias. Peppermint may interact with some pharmaceuticals including high blood pressure and diabetes medications, and anti-acids. Consult with your health care practitioner before ingesting any herbs and essential oils. 10 Click for our website! www.silvergoldmagazine.ca