| How to Remove Ink from Carpet Posted: 02 Apr 2022 01:00 AM PDT Did you spill some ink all over your beautiful carpet? An ink stain may feel like the end of the world for your carpet, but don't worry—we've done the research and this is actually a super easy problem to solve. In this article, we'll walk you through all of the best options and explain how to get your carpet back in tiptop shape. [Edit]Rubbing Alcohol - For any ink, rubbing alcohol will get the stain out no problem. Grab a clean sponge and load it up with a spoonful of rubbing alcohol. Gently blot the stain repeatedly until the ink lifts. Then, rinse the area with water.[1]
- Isopropyl alcohol will work if you don't have any rubbing alcohol around.
- Denatured alcohol may work if the ink is extremely stubborn. This may leave some discoloration behind, so spot test it first!
- If the stain is from a washable or child-safe ink, just use water. Did your child got a little too excited with their art supplies? Good news—this one is a breeze. Simply load up a rag or sponge with clear water and blot the area repeatedly. This kind of ink is designed to be easy to clean up.[2]
- If it leaves any residue or stain behind, use a small drop of dish soap and warm water to blot the remaining ink out.
[Edit]Dish Soap - For water-based inks, you don't need anything tougher than soap. Mix 1-part dish soap with 1-part water and load up a sponge or rag. Pat the inky spill or stain repeatedly with your sponge or rag until the ink starts lifting out. Repeat this process until the ink is gone and pat the area dry with paper towels.[3]
- You can use shampoo or laundry detergent instead of dish soap if you prefer.[4]
- If the ink won't come out all the way, scrub the soaped-up area with a clean toothbrush to work it out of the fibers.
[Edit]Shaving Cream - For permanent inks, the emulsifiers in shaving cream will do the job. Grab a can of shaving cream and spray the ink directly with a thick bead. Grab a sponge, load it up with water, and wring the excess water out. Dab the cream into the carpet with the sponge and wipe the excess foam up. Repeat this process as needed until the ink is gone and use a vacuum to clean the carpet thoroughly.[5]
- Dry the carpet with a clean rag or paper towel when you're done.
[Edit]Cornstarch and Milk - For stubborn permanent ink, cornstarch and milk are a safe bet. Mix a few spoonfuls of cornstarch with enough milk to form a thick paste. Lay the paste on top of the ink stain, and leave it for a few hours. Then, use a dry toothbrush to scrub the cornstarch off of the carpet. The ink should be totally gone. Vacuum the area when you're done to lift up any crumbs.[6]
[Edit]Hair Spray - For ballpoint ink, alcohol-based hair spray is perfect. Lay a paper towel down flat over the ink to absorb the ink, and spray the paper towel liberally with your hair spray. Wait a minute or so and the ink should transfer to the paper towel. Discard the towel and blot the area with a wet sponge. Once the hair spray is gone, wipe up any residue with warm water a towel.[7]
- This may not work if there's no alcohol in the active ingredient for the product you're using.[8]
- The oil and solvent in WD-40 will strip ink without staining the carpet. Spray the ink directly with a quick spritz of WD-40 and wait 30-45 seconds. Then, load up a sponge with warm, soapy water and wring the excess out. Blot the WD-40 with your soapy sponge until the ink comes out, and lift the excess water and soap out with a clean paper towel.[9]
- The WD-40 won't leave a stain behind, but it might leave a residue or texture. Warm water and a rag should soak it up no problem if it bothers you.
- This will discolor your carpet, but if it's white, it may not matter. You can use chlorine- or oxygen-based bleach for this. Put on gloves and pour a tiny dollop of bleach on to a paper towel. Blot the stain over and over again until the ink comes out.[10] Rinse the area with clean water when you're done.
- Even if your carpet isn't white, the discoloration from the bleach may be preferable to the ink stain, and depending on the pattern of your carpet, the bleach may not stand out.[11]
[Edit]Commercial Carpet Cleaner - There are products designed specifically for this that will work. Swing by any home improvement or big box store and look for any commercial carpet cleaner that mentions inks on the label. Follow the instructions on the product to apply it to your carpet. Typically, you just spritz the area with the cleaner, wait a few minutes, and wipe the area with a rag or paper towel.[12]
[Edit]Hydrogen Peroxide - If you find an old permanent ink stain, hydrogen peroxide will fix it. Grab a clean cotton towel and pour a little hydrogen peroxide into it. Blot the ink stain thoroughly with your towel until the ink comes up. Clean the area with water to flush out the peroxide and let the carpet air out overnight.[13]
- This may strip dye out of your carpet, so spot test it first in an area you don't care about.
- For powder ink and pigments, just vacuum the mess up. Do not get powder or pigmented ink wet! That will only make the ink harder to lift out. Instead, simply vacuum the area multiple times to lift out as much of the pigment as you can. Once you've lifted out the pigment, you're done![14]
- Make sure that you spot test any cleaning solution you use in an inconspicuous area first to make sure that it doesn't stain then carpet.
[Edit]Related wikiHows [Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Get Rid of Muscle Cramps with Minerals Posted: 01 Apr 2022 05:00 PM PDT Muscle cramps occur when one or more of your muscles contracts involuntarily and does not relax.[1] There are numerous causes of muscle cramps, including strenuous activity and dehydration.[2] Many muscle cramps are in direct response to your body's potassium, magnesium, sodium, and calcium deficiencies, as these minerals help regulate the activity in your nerves and muscles.[3] Learning how to use minerals to relieve your muscle cramps can help you feel better and get back to your usual activities. [Edit]Ingesting Minerals to Relieve Cramps - Add sodium to your diet. Sodium plays an important role in preventing or treating muscle cramps.[4] That's because sodium helps regulate the body's muscle contraction and relaxation.[5]
- While sodium is an important part of your diet, too much sodium can cause high blood pressure, which can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and congestive heart failure.[6]
- Medical professionals typically recommend keeping your daily sodium intake under 2,300 mg each day, or 1,500 mg for individuals over age 50. Individuals with high blood pressure, diabetes, or chronic kidney problems should also lower their daily sodium intake.[7]
- Common dietary sources of sodium include all vegetables and dairy products, as well as meat and shellfish.[8]
- Get more magnesium. Magnesium is one of many minerals that your body needs to ensure proper muscle function.[9] The studies conducted on muscle cramps and magnesium are somewhat inconclusive, although one study did find a significant improvement in pregnant women experiencing muscle cramps.
- Dietary sources of magnesium include leafy green vegetables, nuts, beans/legumes, and cereal grains.[10]
- A diet that is too high in fat may reduce your body's ability to absorb magnesium.[11]
- Over-the-counter magnesium supplements are available at most pharmacies and drug stores.
- Increase your potassium intake. Low potassium, also called hypokalemia, can affect your muscles' ability to function properly.[12] Increasing your potassium intake may help alleviate muscle cramps naturally.[13]
- Some dietary sources of potassium include squash, potatoes, spinach, lentils/beans, bananas, and cantaloupe.[14]
- Over-the-counter potassium supplements are available at most pharmacies.[15]
- Ingest more calcium. Calcium is required for proper muscle function.[16] Finding ways to increase your calcium levels may help relieve muscle cramps.[17]
- Vitamin D is required to properly absorb calcium. You can get vitamin D from foods like salmon and egg yokes, or through exposure to the sun.[18]
- Dietary sources of calcium include dark leafy vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and kale, as well as milk, soy milk, and some fortified fruit juices.[19]
- Calcium supplements are also available at most pharmacies; however, some studies suggest that calcium supplements may cause kidney stones and other health risks that outweigh the potential benefits.[20] Talk to your doctor before taking this or any other supplement.
[Edit]Soaking in a Mineral Bath - Draw a warm bath. Studies have shown that soaking a cramped muscle can help improve blood flow and relax the muscle out of its tense, cramped state.[21] Be sure that the water is not too hot, to prevent burns and discomfort.
- Add epsom salt. Epsom salt, which is made of magnesium sulfate, is a popular soaking solution for sore or cramped muscles.[22] Add approximately one to two cups of epsom salt per gallon of water in the bathtub.[23]
- Soak in the mineral bath. It's okay to completely submerge your body in the epsom salt bath if you want to. At the very least, though, you should completely submerge the part of your body experiencing muscle cramps. Soak for at least 12 minutes to experience the relaxing effects of a mineral bath.[24]
- Talk to your doctor about how long and how often it is safe to soak in an epsom salt bath.[25]
- Make an epsom salt compress. If you do not want to soak in the bath, you can also prepare a compress using the same measurements as you would for a bath. Simply soak a clean towel in the epsom salt bath and apply directly to the cramped muscle.[26]
- If you sweat a lot, consider a sports drink that can replenish your electrolyte balance.
- Cramps are often caused by dehydration. If you get cramps frequently, drink more water.
- If you get cramps during exercise, drink at least 2 cups of water before each workout. Continue to hydrate throughout your workout.
- When you have finished exercising make sure you warm down by going for a jog and doing stretches. If you get cramps rest and stretch them out
- If you get a little relief but not total control from eating more bananas, prunes, etc., talk to your physician or pharmacist. Supplements in tablet form can be purchased inexpensively at Walmart or your favorite drugstore or pharmacy. Your pharmacist can recommend a dosage for you, and you can try adding supplements one by one until you find a combination that works well.
[Edit]Warnings - Muscle cramps are usually temporary and don't cause permanent damage. But contact a doctor if the cramp or spasm lasts for more than a day, or if it continues to bother you despite trying these steps.
- If your leg cramps are severe and chronic, see your doctor. If you believe you are a sufferer of "restless leg syndrome," ask your doctor about new medications developed just for this painful and debilitating condition.
- Some cholesterol medications (like Lipitor or Simvastatin) have a serious side effect called rhabdomyolysis. This means that the medication is actually breaking down the muscle and can cause serious damage if it isn't caught. If you are experiencing muscle cramps for no apparent reason and you are taking a "statin" medication for your cholesterol, talk to your doctor immediately.[27]
[Edit]Related wikiHows [Edit]References |
| How to Change Your Style Posted: 01 Apr 2022 09:00 AM PDT If you've had the same style for more than four or five years, it's time to shake things up. Changing up your style can be an important to keeping your look in tune with where you are in your life and to preventing you from looking older or (unflatteringly) younger than your true age. Fortunately, renovating your style isn't as intimidating as you may think. In fact, taken step by step, finding your new look can gratifying, and maybe even a little bit fun. [Edit]Deciding on a New Style - Inventory your current style needs. Before making a style change, you should first consider what works and doesn't work for you about your current style.
- In particular, consider why you have the current style that you have. For example, is your style primarily jeans and t-shirts because you don't like having to spend a lot of time thinking about outfits to put together? If so, the new style you choose will need to be simple and easy enough to work for you.
- Trying to impose a new style on yourself that doesn't mesh well with you, your habits, and your attitude will most often fail, so think carefully about what you need as well as want out of a style before committing.
- Choose your style goal. Once you know your style needs, start thinking about the kind of style that will both meet those needs and represent the new kind of appearance you want to adopt.
- To give your new style goal a clear direction, be as specific and descriptive as you can when envisioning the aesthetic you want. Some examples might include "laid-back hipster," "brightly colored retro," "modern punk," etc.
- Choosing a fashion muse can be a helpful tool in shaping your new style, so look for people (famous or otherwise) whose style inspires you and embodies how you'd like your new look to be. Write down how they style certain pieces that you like. For example, does she pair a skater skirt with that leather jacket? This can help when choosing your outfits.
- Think about practical considerations. In addition to thinking about how you want to look, think about how you need to look. Some questions to ask yourself:
- What's your work or school environment? Are there any particular practical constraints on what you can permissibly wear?
- What's your social environment? How will your style best complement your lifestyle?
- Where do you live? Do you want to fit in with or stand apart from your surroundings, and to what degree? Does one form of weather dominate, and will your style be workable in that weather?
- What's your budget? Make sure your new style goal is realistic, otherwise you may find yourself frustrated and unable to achieve what you had in mind.
- How much time do you want to spend getting ready? If you're a low-maintenance person by nature, choosing an elaborate style may not fit well with the kind of routine you're comfortable with.
- Don't be afraid to have an aspirational style--in other words, don't be afraid to start dressing like the person you want to be--but also be realistic and choose a style that's compatible with your personality.
- Clear out your wardrobe and makeup (if applicable). Once you have your new style goal lined up, you need to then clear out the old one.[1]
- Go through every item of clothing and donate the pieces that don't fit the new model you've chosen, that no longer fit, or that are simply unflattering. You may want to recruit a trusted friend to help you make judgment calls.
- If you wear makeup, similarly go through your supplies and eliminate any that are dated or won't enhance the style you're going for.
[Edit]Building Your New Wardrobe - Start with the basics to build your new wardrobe. The foundation of any style is versatile basics, and though the kinds of basics suited to your style will vary depending on the look you're aiming for, commonly needed basics include:
 - Shirts in solid colors. Depending on your style, your basic shirts might be t-shirts, button-ups, polos, or camisoles, etc., but whatever they may be, your basic shirts will be the essential layering staples of your style.
- Black pants. These are essential to most any wardrobe and are versatile enough that you can dress them up for formal occasions or down for more casual situations. Look for a cut of pant that is both modern and flattering to your specific shape.
- Flattering jeans. Darker wash jeans are often most flattering and versatile, but it will again depend on your particular style. Whatever jeans you choose, though, be sure they fit and flatter you. Don't be afraid to spend some time searching out the perfect pair.
- Sweaters or cardigans in solid colors. Like shirts, sweaters are an important layering component. Whether you prefer luxury sweaters or retro cardigans, you should have at least a few different ones on hand to build outfits with.
- A versatile skirt and dress. If skirts and dresses are part of your style, you want to be sure you have at least one of each in a versatile color and shape, like a black pencil skirt or a neutral wrap dress.
- Buy for both style AND fit. Clothes that fit well and flatter your body are essential to successful style.
 - For women's clothing, make sure that pants aren't too small for your waist or too short for your height and that they don't bunch or bulge anywhere. Be sure that tops fit so that the shoulder seams sit squarely on your shoulders, there isn't any gapping between buttons, sleeves come down just below your wrist, and the fabric doesn't bunch or bulge around your hips.[2]
- For men's clothing, be sure that shirts fit squarely on your shoulders, the sleeve hits just below your wrist without bunching, and that the shirt torso (particularly if it's a button-up shirt) lies flush with your waist and doesn't bunch or puff out at the sides. Pants should not be so loose that they billow out around your legs, but they should also not be so tight that they hug the leg--instead, they should be just loose enough to lie comfortably next to the leg without awkward bunching or puffing. Suit jackets should be able to button without stretching and should lie flush with the shoulder so that there's a smooth transition from shoulder to arm with no wrinkling or bunching.[3]
- When shopping online, be sure you have your most recent measurements. For men, you'll need your height, waist, and inseam. Having your hip measurement can also be helpful for finding a precise fit. For women. you'll need your height, bust, natural waist (the slimmest part of your torso), actual waist (where your pants sit), hips, and inseam. Always check your measurements against the retailer's sizing chart, don't just rely on size alone, which varies among brands.[4]
- Focus on your best colors. Decide which colors most flatter your skin tone and eyes and work within that palette.
- A new style that doesn't flatter you won't serve you any better than your old one.
- To determine your most flattering colors, bring a trusted friend shopping with you and then try on clothes in a wide range of colors and have that friend help you judge which are most flattering for you.
- Find your accessories. Accessories allow you to make a look specifically yours, so finding the right pieces for your style will help you fine-tune the tone and look of your personal style.
- Accessories allow you to add nuance to your outfits, so think about the subtle aspects you want to communicate with your style when buying them. For example, accessories can add understated elegance, bold confidence, or funky humor to your overall style.
- The basic accessory line-up includes belts, jewelry, hats, scarves, and glasses. Each of these, either singly or in combination, can change the focal point of an outfit, add a pop of color, or take an outfit from casual to office-appropriate to dressed-up, so shop strategically.[5].
- Diversify. Once you've gathered the basics of your look, begin building a balanced selection you can draw from to suit your most common needs, eg, office wear, casual wear, date wear, club wear, etc.[6]
- Avoid buying multiples of the same. Don't buy three black sweaters, for example, or four white t-shirts. Even if they aren't identical, you don't want to have too many of the same kind of piece--it will stifle your style and take up unnecessary closet space.
- Avoid fixating on the same color. Don't buy all of your clothes in the same color--it will quickly run your style into a monotone rut. It's fine to work within a flattering color palette, just don't fixate on a single color.
[Edit]Maintaining Your New Style - Stay focused on your style model. As you continue adding pieces to your wardrobe, keep your fashion model fresh in your mind.
- If you need a visual aid, design your own personal lookbook that includes images that embody your style model and can help guide you in your choices.
- Make a list of what you're looking for. Showing up at a store without a clear idea of which specific items you're looking for can leave you directionless and may lead you to making purchases you'll regret or to giving up in frustration. But with a clear sense of what you're after, you can consistently add items to your wardrobe with confidence and efficiency.
- Interrogate each addition carefully before making it. Before choosing an item, be sure that it fits into your style model and that it will be a useful part of a versatile wardrobe.
- Avoid super trendy items, which likely won't be useful to your wardrobe for more than a single season and afterward will only date your look. [7].
- Have a good mix of neutral and statement colors. Mixing neutral pieces with a bright pop of color is a great way to make a stylish impression.
- Make sure each new piece you buy could be part of at least several different outfits.
- Maintain wardrobe diversity. To get the most mileage out of your wardrobe, shop with versatility, not just style or color, in mind.
- The new pieces you add should fit your style, flatter your body, and add versatility to your wardrobe.
- If you're eyeing a piece of clothing that already resembles an item you have in your wardrobe, don't buy it. Look for something complementary but also different from your current pieces to ensure your wardrobe doesn't devolve into too much of the same.
- When buying tops, ask yourself whether a particular top can be worn in different ways as part of different outfits. For example, when selecting a top, ask questions like, can I wear it tucked in or loose? Can I layer it? etc. When choosing a skirt, ask questions like, can I wear it with different shoes (heels, boots, flats)? Can I wear it with both casual and fancier tops? Can I layer a jacket with it? etc. [8]
- If you want to test drive different styles before committing, consider borrowing some pieces from a fashionable friend first to see if you feel comfortable with that style.
- Remember that it's not about quantity, it's about versatility. Don't simply buy a pile of new clothes, buy strategic and versatile pieces that will give the illusion of a large wardrobe.
- If you don't want to spend too much on clothes consider going to some thrift stores.
- It's recommended that you re-evaluate your personal style at least every five years to reflect who you are and where you are in your life.[9]
[Edit]Related wikiHows [Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Comfort Your Friend Posted: 01 Apr 2022 01:00 AM PDT Who do you turn to when things go wrong? Your friends can offer a great sense of comfort and support, especially when you're feeling down. Knowing exactly how to comfort your friend and what to say isn't always easy, and you might be feeling a little tongue-tied. Fortunately, it's possible to comfort a friend and help them feel better without things being awkward or uncomfortable. Keep reading to learn all kinds of different ways you can comfort a friend when they're feeling down. [Edit]Find out what the problem is. - If you aren't sure, ask your friend what's wrong. It's not always easy to figure out why your friend is upset, so it's best to just ask them what's wrong. If your friend is hesitant to tell you, let them know that you aren't going to judge, and that you'll be here to help them no matter what.[1]
- Try something like, "Hey, what's going on? I can tell you're upset. I promise I won't judge you; I just want to know how I can help."
[Edit]Ask your friend how they're feeling. - Try not to assume you know what's going through their head. If they just went through something upsetting, they might be feeling angry, sad, hurt, or even uncomfortable. Ask your friend to open up to you about their feelings so you can understand them a little better.[2]
- You might say, "That sounds really tough. How are you doing?"
- Or, "You're handling things really well. How are you feeling?"
[Edit]Listen to them talk. - Sometimes the best way to comfort someone is to be quiet. Let your friend talk as much (or as little) as they want to, and try not to interrupt. The more you let them spill their heart out to you, the better they'll feel.[3]
- Put away any distractions and give your friend your full attention while you two chat.
- Nod along and make eye contact to show that you're listening and encourage them to talk more.
[Edit]Validate their feelings. - Tell your friend that however they're feeling is okay. When you go through a tough time, you sometimes feel a wide range of emotions, which can be confusing. Let your friend know that you aren't judging them, and however they feel is totally valid.[4]
- Say something like, "It makes sense that you'd feel that way," or, "I totally understand where you're coming from."
[Edit]Express your concern for them. - Show your friend that you care by expressing your emotions. Let your friend know that you're sorry about their situation. Hearing someone's concern might make your friend feel better, and it will show that you want the best for them. Even a simple, "I'm sorry that you're going through this," can really bring them a sense of peace.[5]
- You could also try, "This sounds really hard—I'm sorry."
[Edit]Give an example of your own tough time. - It can be helpful to tell your friend that you relate. Try bringing up a tough time that you went through recently, and share just how hard it was for you. You don't want to spend a ton of time on your own story (since that can make it seem like you aren't listening to your friend), but bringing it up briefly can be comforting.[6]
- You might say, "I understand how you're feeling. When I broke up with my girlfriend, I was so sad that I barely got out of bed for a week."
[Edit]Ask your friend what you can do. - They might have a suggestion for how you can help. Maybe they want you to take care of a few chores around the house for them, or maybe they just need you to sit in silence with them. Check in with your friend before you do anything to make sure that you're doing the right thing.[7]
- You can ask by simply saying, "Is there anything I can do?" or, "What would make you feel better right now?"
[Edit]Make time to check in with them often. - Your friend might not feel better after one day. If you have to head home or you aren't going to see them again for a little while, make an effort to text, call, or hang out with them often. Remind them that you're there for them, and see if they need any help as they start to feel better.[8]
- You can send a quick text that says, "Hey, just checking in. How are you feeling today?"
- Or, "I'm in the neighborhood, wondering if I could stop by."
[Edit]Encourage them to practice self care. - Tell your friend to do one nice thing for themselves today. It can be something small, like drinking a cup of coffee or putting on a soothing face mask. Whatever it is, a little act of self care is sure to make them feel better, if only for a little while.[9]
- You could also tell your friend to take a walk, play with a pet, have food delivered, or read a good book.
[Edit]Offer practical help. - Ask your friend if they need help with groceries or chores. If your friend is super sad, they might not have the energy to go do things that they normally would, like shopping or cleaning the house. If you have time, ask your friend if they need any assistance, then run an errand or do some chores for them.[10]
- Bring it up by saying something like, "Hey, I'm heading to the store later. Is there anything I could grab for you while I'm there?"
- Or, "You're probably feeling pretty drained. Why don't you rest while I clean up a little?"
[Edit]Plan a fun night in. - Cheer your friend up with a game night or a movie. If your friend doesn't feel like going anywhere, head to their place and watch something on Netflix or play a few board games. Simply having your company might be enough to make them feel better![11]
- If you can't get together in person, try watching a movie "together" virtually via Netflix's or Hulu's Watch Party feature.
[Edit]Make them dinner. - Enjoy a nice meal with your friend to make sure they're eating. When you're sad, it's easy to forget basic things, like eating dinner. Head over to your friend's house and cook them up something delicious, like pasta, chicken, or steak. Then, enjoy each other's company and chat, or simply sit in silence as you eat.[12]
- You could also order your friend takeout and have it delivered to their home.
[Edit]Bring your friend a nice treat. - A coffee or a dessert might be just the pick-me-up they need. If you're on your way to your friend's house, stop by a local store and pick them up something fun, then bring it with you. Hopefully, a sweet surprise will cheer your friend up, if only a little bit.[13]
- If you live far away from your friend, Venmo them a couple of dollars and tell them to go buy a coffee or a fun pastry.
[Edit]Send them a sweet text. - Pick a message that will make them laugh or smile. If you can't see your friend in-person that day, try sending them a goofy meme or a cute animal photo. Or, shoot them a message telling them how much they mean to you and how good of a friend they are. Hopefully, it will help them feel just a little bit better.[14]
- You might say something like, "Just wanted to let you know that I'm thinking about you, and I love you!"
[Edit]Encourage your friend to seek help. - Your friend might benefit from seeing a mental health professional. If you've comforted them as much as you can but they're still going through a tough time, tell them to talk to a counselor or therapist. A professional can help them utilize coping skills and come up with specific advice for their situation.[15]
- You can gently suggest this by saying something like, "Hey, I noticed you still seem pretty down. Have you ever considered counseling? I've done it before, and it really helped me when I was going through a tough time."
[Edit]Related wikiHows [Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Make Overnight Oats Posted: 31 Mar 2022 05:00 PM PDT Overnight oats are easy to make, healthy and filling. You can customize these basic overnight oats recipes with your favorite milk, fruit, nuts and spices. Try the refrigerator overnight oats recipe for a quick, fresh breakfast. Opt for the slow cooker recipe if you prefer hot, rich flavors in the morning. [Edit]Ingredients [Edit]Refrigerator Oatmeal - 1/2 to 2 cups (78 to 312g) rolled oats
- 1/2 to 2 cups (118 to 473ml) dairy milk, non-dairy milk or yogurt, plus extra for serving
- 1 tsp. (2.2g) chia seeds or flax seeds
- 1 tsp. to 1 tbsp. (4 to 12g) sweetener
- 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. (0.7 to 1.3g) spice, such as cinnamon
- 1/2 cup (90g) frozen, fresh or canned fruit
- 1/4 cup (27g) chopped nuts or dried fruit
[Edit]Slow Cooker Oatmeal - 1 cup (156g) of steel cut oats
- 1 to 2 cups (175 to 350g) fruit
- 1.5 cups (355ml) dairy or non-dairy milk, plus additional for serving
- 1.5 cups (355ml) water
- 2 tbsp. (24g) brown sugar or other sweetener, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 tsp. (1.3g) spice, such as cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tbsp. (6.6g) ground flax seed
- 1/4 tsp. (1.5g) salt
- 1/4 cup (27g) chopped nuts and/or dried fruit
[Edit]Making Refrigerator Oatmeal - Choose a container. You can use almost anything that has a lid. Canning jars are commonly used because they work great for storing and serving.
- Add as many serving of rolled oats as you prefer. A serving is usually 1/2 cup of oats, but you may desire a more generous portion or a family size batch.
- Add an equal amount of milk. If you use 1/2 cup of rolled oats, add 1/2 cup of milk. You can use cow's milk, almond milk or another other type of milk to achieve the same result.
- If you plan to add a lot of watery fruit, you can reduce the liquid by 1/4 to 1/2 cup. Fresh and frozen fruit releases plenty of liquid. This is especially important if you want a thick consistency.
- Stir in 1 tsp. of chia seeds or flax seeds. This improves the nutritional content of the meal, and it can also make you feel fuller longer.
- You can actually replace the oats with four tbsp. of chia seeds. The texture of these overnight oats is like tapioca pudding.[1]
- Add a tsp. of sweetener, like honey, brown sugar or maple syrup. You can add in 1 tbsp. of cocoa powder or peanut butter for a similar sweet effect.
- For sweeter oatmeal, add 1 tbsp. of sweetener.
- Measure 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. of spices, like cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice.
- Add 1/2 cup of frozen, fresh or canned fruit. Stir the ingredients together thoroughly with a spoon. Ensure that the oats are mostly covered with liquid.
- If you are using bananas, mash up 1/2 to one banana and then add it to the jar.
- Seal the lid. Place it in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 5 hours. The oats will soak up the liquid so that they don't need to be cooked.
- Remove the oats from the refrigerator in the morning. Consider adding a handful of chopped nuts for a crunchy texture. Add tbsp. to 1/2 cup of additional milk, depending upon your preferred consistency.
- Stir again and eat directly from the container.[2]
[Edit]Making Slow Cooker Oatmeal - Coat the inside of a large slow cooker with cooking spray in the evening before you go to bed.
- Slice 2 to 3 cups of fruit. Peeled, sliced apples work very well in this recipe. You can also use frozen fruit.
- Add the steel-cut or rolled oats, brown sugar, ground flax seed and spices.
- Mix in 1.5 cups of dairy or non-dairy milk and 1.5 cups of water. Stir the ingredients well.
- Cook on low for seven hours. Spoon into bowls for serving.
- Mix in garnishes, such as chopped nuts, maple syrup, milk or dried fruit. Serve immediate. The extra can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated.[3]
- Finished.
- You can replace milk with an equal portion of plain or flavored yogurt. You can also do a half and half ratio of milk and yogurt. Once mixed, add water to thin the mixture and cover the oats completely.
[Edit]Things You'll Need - Canning jars
- Spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Refrigerator
- Slow cooker
- Serving bowls
[Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Make a First Aid Kit for Kids Posted: 31 Mar 2022 09:00 AM PDT Accidents happen, especially when kids are in the house, and being prepared with a first aid kit is always a great idea. Once you decide they're ready, teaching your child how to use the kit will help enable them to care for themselves in any kind of emergency. Having a well-stocked first aid kit on hand for your child will help put your mind at ease and let you and your family worry less when injuries occur. You can purchase pre-made kits from the store or online, but making your own first aid kit ensures your kit has everything your child could need in an emergency. [Edit]Designing the Kit - Decide on the right size for the kit. Consider how and when the kit will most likely be used and where it will be stored. Also, consider the age of your child and what they can carry. A manageable size for a container that would still be able to contain the necessary items for your kid is a case the size of a shoebox.[1]
- For example, you might use an old lunchbox for the kit.
- If you're making a first aid kit for your child to bring on school trips, make sure it's small enough to fit in their backpack or gear bag.
- If you are making a kit to keep at home, be sure it won't be too big or cumbersome for your child to pull the kit from wherever it is stored.
- Only teach your child to use the kit if you think they're responsible enough to understand.[2]
- Choose the appropriate container material. First aid kits can come in a variety of sizes and are built from a variety of materials. Choosing the right material for your first aid kit should again be based on how the kit will be used by your child. For example, lightweight plastic might work well for kits that your child travels with, but a sturdy metal tin might be great for a home kit. Some additional considerations:[3]
- Consider using a container that has a handle to make it easier for the child to transport it from one place to another.
- Make sure the container is not made of anything that will be too heavy for the child to lift once it is full of first aid items.
- Translucent containers will make it easier to keep track of items that need to be replaced.
- Look for a waterproof container so that none of the items inside get damaged.
- Make sure the container can be locked. When not in use, you want to make sure that the contents of the first aid kit are unable to be tampered with by any younger children in the house who aren't mature enough to use the kit. A clasp or lock will also ensure that the kit does not open easily during transportation. You want to be sure that the clasp is one that the child can open quickly in case of an emergency.[4]
- Try to find a container that has the same type of clasp found on children's lunch boxes.
- Since the kit will probably not be used very often, it is also a good idea to practice opening this lock with your child so they remember how to open it in an emergency.
- Don't teach your child to use the kit until you think they're ready to use it responsibly.
- Label the box as a children's first-aid kit. The kit should be labeled clearly as a first aid kit for kids. Using a bright label, such as in red, will make the kit stand out within a crowded locker or cabinet. You should also paint or affix a symbol to show that it should be used for first aid, which is typically designated by a medical emblem or a cross (usually in white against a red background or vice versa).[5]
- It is important to label the children's kit so it is distinct from an adults' first aid kit. For example, also label the kit with the child's name (e.g., KATIE'S FIRST AID KIT).
- Consider keeping the adult first aid kit high up where it can't be accessed by the children in the house, and be sure it has a more advanced lock or clasp on it so it is childproof. This is because your adult first aid kit will likely contain supplies that aren't appropriate for a child, such as medicated ointments. Teach your child to only use their first aid kit.
- Affix emergency numbers to the kit. In addition to stocking the kit with first aid items, it is also a great idea to include any emergency numbers your child might need in an emergency. Collect the telephone numbers for the local emergency room, 9-1-1, Poison Control, your contact information, and the number for a trusted neighbor, family member, or friend. Each number should be clearly printed underneath the name of the location or person.
- Consider including a small icon or picture for each location or person. This will help your child easily locate the number they need in a stressful emergency situation.
- Review the icons and the list of numbers with the children who will use the kit so that they are aware of which contact is which, and how to dial the numbers, and who to call in certain situations.
- Although it's unlikely your child will need the information, it's best to teach them how to use it in case of emergency. In most cases, your child will use their kit to find a bandaid, but it's best to be prepared.
[Edit]Stocking the Kit - Create a checklist of item to include in the kit. This list will not only help you stock the new kit initially, it will also help you keep track of what items have been used and need to be replaced, expiration dates, and whether or not any items or medications are missing. You should also review this list with your child as you stock the first aid kit, explaining to them what each item is, what is for, and how to use it.
- Consider the age of your child. For example, a kit for a child who's 5-10 years-old might include mostly bandaids, antiseptic towelettes, and possibly instant cold packs. However, a kit for a pre-teen or teen might also be stocked with medicated ointment, sterile gauze, medical tape, an ACE bandage, a thermometer, eye wash, calamine lotion, aloe vera gel, and cough drops.
- If your child takes a medication and knows how to administer it themselves, you might include it in the kit.
- Include a variety of bandages. Keep all of your bandages together in a section of the kit. If your kit does not already have dividers built in, put all of the bandages in a clear plastic bag labeled "BANDAGES" with permanent marker. You can also purchase smaller plastic containers to stack within the first aid kit, also labeling the container for bandages with permanent marker. The Red Cross recommends including the following types of bandages and dressings in first aid kits:[6]
- 2 absorbent compress dressings (5 x 9 inches)
- 25 adhesive bandages of various sizes
- 5 sterile gauze pads (3 x 3")
- 5 sterile gauze pads (4 x 4")
- Gauze roll
- Roll of cloth adhesive tape
- One 3" wide and one 4" wide roller bandages ("ACE bandage") for wrapping wrist, elbow, ankle, and knee injuries
- 2 triangular bandages
- Sterile cotton balls and cotton-tipped swabs
- Add basic medical tools. Since this kit is for a child, you don't want to include any tools that would further endanger them. Because of this, you may need to revise the suggested tools depending on the age or ability of your child. These tools will help them remove debris and prepare the wound to be dressed and bandaged. Again, keep these tools in the same area within your kit, keeping them within a separate, labeled clear plastic bag or container for ease of use. Some suggested medical tools to include:[7]
- Small, sharp scissors with rounded, child-safe tips
- Tweezers, for removing splinters and such
- 2 pairs of non-latex gloves
- Non-mercury oral thermometer
- CPR breathing barrier mask (with one-way valve), if they're trained in CPR
- Instant cold compress
- Instant hot pack
- Hand sanitizer
- 5 antiseptic wipe packets or antiseptic spray (for external cleaning only)
- Zip-close plastic bags (to dispose of medical waste)
- Consider including additional first aid items. Depending on the size of your container and where the kit will be used, there are additional items that are recommended to include in a first aid kit. These are more applicable for use with older children, since many of these items might not be safe for young children to handle. Some additional kit items to include[8]:
- Sterile drinking water
- Eye protection
- Sterile eyewash
- Prepackaged space (warming) blanket
- Aluminum finger splint
- Safety pins (to easily fasten splints and bandages)
- Antibiotic ointment (ones containing ingredients such as bacitracin or mupirocin)
- Calamine lotion (for stings or poison ivy)
- Hydrocortisone cream, ointment, or lotion (for itching)
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Turkey baster or other suction device (for flushing out wounds while on road trips or while camping)
- Include medications depending on your child's age. Depending on the age of the kid(s) using the kit, you may or may not include medicine within the first aid kit. If you do choose to include medications, be sure to keep these separate from the bandages and tools, and make sure the smaller container or bag for medicine is clearly labeled as such. You should also include a measuring cup for any liquid medication, and consider labeling each medicine with the required dosages. Recommended medications to include:
- Low-dose pain and fever medicines, such as children's Tylenol
- Antacids to treat upset stomach
- Small doses of any prescription medications taken by the child/children
- Epinephrine autoinjector (if necessary)
[Edit]Teaching Your Child About the Kit - Show your child where the kit is located. You want to make sure that your child knows where the kit is located in case of an emergency. You want to make you kit easily accessible so that they don't have to rummage around trying to find it. Designate a spot that is clearly defined, visible, and consistent so that locating the kit becomes routine. You also want to be sure to establish a location for the kit that is safely out of reach for any younger children in the house.[9]
- Go over each item in the kit with your child. As you stock the kit with first aid items, go over each item with your child one at a time. Explain to them what the item is and how it should be used. Do this calmly and try to avoid scaring your child. Remember that empowering them with this knowledge will help make emergency situations less scary. To avoid overwhelming younger children, only review 1 - 3 items per day.[10]
- Tell your child to notify you or another adult if they use the kit, especially if they or their friend is injured.
- If an adult is available, encourage them to ask for help.
- Include a pictogram for each item in the kit. Even with careful review and instruction, the anxiety of the situation may cause your child to forget how to use each item in an emergency. To help them remember how to use each item, create a booklet with pictures depicting each item. A pictogram can be printed out from images found online to show how each item in the kit should be used, in picture form. Go through each pictogram with your child in detail before putting it in the first aid kit. Consider creating separate pictogram booklets for each section of items within the kit (e.g., bandages, tools, medications, etc.).
- Practice with your child. In order to make sure your child understands the kit and its items, role-play a few scenarios to get your child to demonstrate their understanding. Ask your child to do a demonstration of how each item in the kit should be used. Be sure to do this in a relaxed setting that does not have any interruptions. Make it fun by pretending your child is the doctor and you are their patient!
- Update the kit after each use. Using the checklist within the kit, regularly monitor the contents of the kit. Be sure to review the kit's contents after each use to take stock of what is depleted and needs to be replaced. Also be sure to check the medications and ointments to make sure they are still within their use-by date. If they have expired, remove the item, properly discard it, and restock the kit with a fresh item. Any items that are reusable should be inspected thoroughly to ensure that they are in good working condition and that they were not damaged during use.[11]
[Edit]Warnings - It is important to note that the child should be taken to the hospital after the first aid has been used. This helps so that the doctor can assess the child and ensure that they are free from danger and that all their body systems are in good working condition.
[Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Make a Candy Stripe Friendship Bracelet Posted: 31 Mar 2022 01:00 AM PDT A friendship bracelet makes a great gift for a special friend or loved one. The easiest and most basic friendship bracelet is a candy stripe pattern. With just a few supplies and some patience, you can create a beautiful handmade bracelet for a friend. [Edit]Making a Bracelet with Four Strings - Buy or collect your supplies. For the four string weave, you will need four pieces of embroidery thread (sometimes called embroidery floss) in two different colors. You can find these at your local craft store, or in the craft section of most major retailers, like Walmart or Target. Look for two colors that complement each other, such as blue and green or red and orange.[1]
- You can also make an ombre bracelet with two shades of a color, like blue or red. Ombre bracelets use a pattern where the color changes little by little from light to dark.[2]
- Fold your strings in half. Cut two strings of a different color so they are 65" long. Now you can fold them in half and make a ¼ inch loop. This loop will form the base of your friendship bracelet.
- If you don't have 65" of embroidery thread, you can make your bracelet without a loop. In this case, you will need to use a length of 30" for your thread.[3]
- Tape your strings to your clipboard. Place your strings on a flat surface, like a table or clipboard, and tape the loop firmly to it. This will help you weave your strings more easily, as the tape will hold each in place while you knot your threads.
- If you have chosen to not loop your threads and instead are using 30" strands, simply tape your strings to your clipboard or flat surface.
- Arrange your strings from 1-4. Move left to right and label each in your head as string 1, 2, 3, and 4. You should be using two colors, making sure that strings 1 and 3 are your first color, and strings 2 and 4 your second color.
- Tie a forward knot with string 1 over your other strings. To tie a forward knot, you should loop one string twice over the string to its immediate right. You should then pull the loops tight into a knot. After you have finished your forward knot on string 2, move string 1 to string 3, repeating the process until you finish this round of forward knots on string 4.
- Your strings should now be in the order: 2, 3, 4, 1.
- Tie a forward knot with string 2 over 3,4, and 1. Tighten each knot so that it is tight and firm. After you have tied your final forward knot for string 2 on string 1, your strings should be in the order: 3, 4, 1, 2.
- Tie a forward knot with string 3 over 4,1, and 2. Tighten each knot so that it is tight and firm. Your strings should now be in the order: 4, 1, 2, 3.
- Tie a forward knot with string 4 over strings 1, 2, and 3. Tighten each knot so that it is tight and firm. Your strings should now be in the same order you started: 1, 2, 3, 4.
- Your bracelet should now have a diagonal striped pattern, with alternating colors.[4]
- Continue forward knotting your leftmost string across the other strings. Do this until your bracelet is long enough to fit around your wrist. You can estimate or measure your friend's wrist if you're worried your bracelet won't be big enough.
- Knot the loose end of your bracelet. A standard knot will do for tying off the loose ends of your new friendship bracelet. You should trim the ends so there is string left over. You will use this to tie the bracelet around the wearer's wrist.
- You can dip the ends in nail polish to prevent them from fraying.[5]
- You can add a braid after your forward knots are finish to give your bracelet more character.[6]
[Edit]Making a Bracelet with Six Strings - Buy or collect six pieces of embroidery thread. Each strand should be a different color, and each should be about 2-2.5' long, or 24-30".[7] You will also need tape and a clipboard, or in place of a clipboard you can use a sturdy, flat surface.
- Choose complementing colors or contrasting colors to give your bracelet contrast. Customize the bracelet with your personal color choices, or choose a color you think your friend might like.
- Ombre patterns change color from light to dark gradually.[8] Your six string friendship bracelet, if you choose six different shades of the same color or shades between similar colors (like blue to green), can make an excellent ombre pattern.
- Arrange your strings according to your preference. Collect your strands so they are in series, one strand following the next on your clipboard or flat surface. Tape your threads together in this order on your clipboard to keep them in place while you knot it in the friendship bracelet pattern.
- It helps to label the strings by number, from 1-6. So moving left to right, the strings will be: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- If you have trouble remembering the numbers for your strings, write each number on a piece of tape and attach it to the end of the corresponding string.
- Tie a forward knot with string 1 over the other strings. To tie a forward know, you should loop your string twice and then pull it tight to form a knot. You should tie a forward knot with string 1 through the rest of your strings, finishing at string 6.
- When you have completed your first round of forward knots with string 1, the resulting order of your strings should be: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 1.
- Tie a forward knot with string 2 over the other strings. Tie your forward knots with string 2 through the rest of your strings until you reach the final strand, which should now be string 1.
- Be sure your forward knots are pulled tight, and when you have completed this round of forward knots, the order of your strings will be: 3, 4, 5, 6, 1, 2.
- Continue tying forward knots across the other strings using the leftmost string. In this fashion, you will see your friendship bracelet grow in length. Continue until the bracelet is a length that fits your or your friend's wrist.
- Knot the loose ends of your friendship bracelet. A standard not will be good enough to tie off loose ends for your new friendship bracelet. Now you can trim the ends, leaving enough left over so you can tie the bracelet around the wearer's wrist.
- You can dip the ends in nail polish to prevent them from fraying.[9]
- You can use the excess thread to add a braid to your bracelet, giving it more character.
- Once you master the basic candy stripe, you may want to try other patterns like the heart pattern, the chevron pattern, or the double wave.[10]
[Edit]Things You'll Need - Embroidery thread (sometimes called embroidery floss)
- A clipboard
- Tape
[Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Raise Chickens for Eggs Posted: 30 Mar 2022 05:00 PM PDT Raising chickens can be a fun family activity for urban homesteaders or rural homes. Many people come to think of their chickens as pets, as well as food providers. To keep your chickens and eggs safe, you must invest in a coop and brooder, protect hens from predators and protect yourself and the animals from harmful bacteria. Follow these tips to raise chickens for eggs. [Edit]Planning a Chicken Coop - Find out if it is legal to raise chickens on your land. Many cities have ordinances against raising chickens in city lines.
- It is a good idea to search for town ordinances and to check with your homeowner's association. They may have additional restrictions.
- Most cities have stricter laws about roosters than chickens. If you want a rooster in order to grow chickens for meat, you may have more trouble.
- Talk to your neighbors. Chickens make a fair amount of noise. Don't have roosters if you have neighbors close by; the roosters may disturb the neighbors!
- Chickens will still squawk, but rest assured they will not crow like roosters.
- Consider offering your neighbors free eggs every few weeks. They may be more amenable to the idea if they reap some benefits. [1]
- Make sure you have enough time in your schedule to care for chicks and chickens. You will need to stay at home the first day the chicks arrive, and clean and harvest eggs most days of the year. If you have to work long hours, this responsibility may not be for you.
- Set aside an area in your backyard for the chicken coop. If you are raising the birds from chicks, you'll have a little bit of time to build it while they grow. If you are buying older hens, you will need the coop immediately.
[Edit]Making a Chicken Brooder/Coop - Buy a chicken coop before your chickens are 2 months old. Search online for people who make chicken coops in your area, and you may be able to pick up a newly made model to avoid shipping. You can also get plan to build a coop online.
- Look for a coop or design with lots of light, so your chickens will be happy.
- Choose a coop with a run, so that chickens can roam, but be protected during the day.
- You can buy a chicken coop from Amazon, Williams Sonoma, Petco and numerous other outlets.
- You can also buy a chicken tractor, which is a portable chicken run.
- Reinforce your chicken coop. Predators, such as raccoons, mountain lions, bobcats and even dogs, can slip through cracks or underneath coops. Invest some money in extra chicken wire, nails and wooden or stone borders.
- Prepare your brooder/coop before you bring chicks home. Add bedding, feeders and a heat lamp.
[Edit]Choosing Chickens - Consider buying hens. They are often available in the fall, after people have raised too many chicks for their needs. However, it is hard to distinguish hens that are near the end of their egg-laying years (over 2 years old) from those who are young with many egg-laying years ahead of them, so vet your farm or seller well. [2]
- Opt for buying chicks rather than hatching eggs the first year you raise chickens. Hatching eggs are available through purchase by mail order and in stores. While they may be cheaper than chicks, they may not have the sex determined and some eggs do not hatch.
- Set up your brooder before you take the chicks home. A brooder is a heated nesting place that will keep chicks warm. They cannot regulate their body temperature for the first few weeks of life.
- Find a thick cardboard or plastic box. It should be smaller when the chicks are small, and then you should replace it incrementally as they grow.
- Place the box in an area of your house that has a steady temperature.
- Pour 1 inch (2.5 cm) of pine shavings into the bottom of the box.
- Place a heat lamp on the side of the box. Use a thermometer to keep the temperature at a steady 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius).
- Purchase a chick waterer, chick feeder and chick starter feed from your local feed store. [3]
- Buy day-old chicks at the local feed store or online. You can usually buy them between February and April. Look for "pullets" because they are female.
- A full grown chicken between 2 months and 2 years old will lay approximately 5 eggs per week. In order to get a dozen per week, buy 3 to 4 chickens.
- Make sure your coop size is large enough to accommodate them. There should be 3 to 4 square feet (0.9 to 1.2 square meters) of space per chicken inside the coop and 10 square feet (3 square meters) of space per chicken outside the coop.
- Purchase several types of egg-laying chickens. A mixed group will provide varied sizes and colors. The following are some breeds to consider:
- Americana chickens, sometimes called "Easter Eggers" are prized for their colored eggs.
- Other popular breeds are Rhode Island reds, Cochin chickens and Barred Rocks.
- Breeds called Australorps, Orpingtons and Faverolles are considered "winter layers" so it may be worth buying them in cold-weather areas.
- Breeds that are considered "fancy" will lay fewer eggs. They are developed genetically for their looks rather than their egg-laying abilities.
[Edit]Raising Chickens - Move the heat lamp slightly farther away every week for 8 weeks. Keep it at 95 degrees the first week and decrease by 5 degrees each week until you reach 65 degrees (18 degrees Celsius).
- The week after you reach 65 degrees, you can take the lamp away completely.
- Keep a thermometer in the box so you can accurately judge the temperature. [4]
- Dip the chick's beaks in water the first day you bring them home. They are possibly dehydrated and don't know how to drink yet. Keep an eye on water levels for the next few months to ensure they are staying hydrated.
- Thirsty/hot chicks will have their beak open and pant.
- Buy chick feed for the first few months. Chickens need food with a little sand in it, and baby chick crumbles have already accounted for this. When you replace chickens in later years, you can try mixing your own scraps with sand.
- Move the chickens outdoors to their coop after 2 months. If it is still very cold in your area, you might want to wait a little longer.
- Feed your chickens varied food to make deeper yolks. They can eat store-bought chicken crumbles, food scraps, insects from the lawn, night crawlers, grass and corn. Cracked corn is essential in the winter to keep their body temperature up.
- Free-range eggs have lower cholesterol and saturated fats than store bought eggs. They also have higher omega-3 fatty acids. [5]
- Avoid letting your chickens roam free without supervision. Although you may want them to have freedom, they will become prey.
- Let them out to run around when you are doing yard work or playing in the lawn.
- Keep them in the run until nightfall, and then close up the coop.
[Edit]Gathering Eggs - Place a fake egg in the nesting boxes of young hens. Make sure it is not a real egg, or they can get into the habit of eating eggs. They need to be shown where to lay their eggs.
- In later years, having chickens of varying ages helps teach new hens how to behave. Most sources suggest replacing 1/4 to 1/3 of the flock each year.
- Gather eggs each day to free up the nesting boxes.
- Wipe the eggs with a soft cloth, which removes mess, but not the anti-bacterial bloom on the egg. Mother hens produce this coating to protect their eggs from disease.
- Store eggs at approximately 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7.2 degrees Celsius). They should be stored in the refrigerator rather than at room temperature. Warmer temperatures can promote bacterial growth.
- Protect against salmonella. The following habits will prevent backyard hens from producing contaminated eggs.
- Wash eggs that are covered with chicken feces. Roll them around in a sanitizer with 1/2 oz. (14.8 ml) of chlorine to 1 gallon (3.8 l) of water.
- Eat eggs quickly. Older eggs have a higher risk of contamination as the egg white breaks down.
- Place chicken manure in a composter for 45 to 60 days before adding it to vegetable beds. Fresh chicken manure may contaminate vegetables with salmonella.
- Keep potentially contaminated eggs away from pregnant women, young children or chronically ill people, who have a higher chance of infection. [6]
[Edit]Things You'll Need - Chicken coop
- Chicken run/tractor
- Brooder
- Heat lamp
- Thermometer
- Chick starter feed
- Chick waterer/bowls
- Water
- Day-old chicks
- Kitchen scraps
- Cracked corn
- Chicken crumbles
- Soft cloth
- Refrigerator
- Chlorine
- Compost pile
[Edit]Related wikiHows [Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Make Homemade Dishwasher Soap Posted: 30 Mar 2022 09:00 AM PDT Using a dishwasher to clean your dishes after a meal can eliminate one annoying household chore from your list. But if you're concerned about the chemicals that are used in commercial dishwasher soaps, you may feel torn between convenience and safety. Fortunately, you can make your own homemade dishwasher detergent using natural ingredients that you can buy at most grocery stores. Best of all, whipping up your own dishwasher soap is actually cheaper than buying premade formulas, so you'll save money at the same time. [Edit]Ingredients [Edit]Basic Dishwasher Detergent - Dish soap
- Baking soda
- Salt
[Edit]Borax-Based Dishwasher Detergent - 1 cup (237 g) borax
- 1 cup (237 g) washing soda
- ½ cup (118. 5 g) citric acid
- ½ cup (124 g) kosher salt
[Edit]Borax-Free Dishwasher Detergent - 1 ½ cups (355.5 g) citric acid
- 1 ½ cups (355.5 g) washing soda
- ½ cup (209 g) baking soda
- ½ cup (130 g) sea salt
[Edit]Homemade Dishwasher Tabs - 2 cups (474 g) washing soda or baking soda
- 2 cups (474 g) borax
- ½ cup (124 g) kosher salt or epsom salt
- ½ cup (129 ml) vinegar
- 15 to 20 drops lemon essential oil
[Edit]Making Basic Dishwasher Detergent on the Spot - Add regular dish soap to the dishwasher's detergent cup. If you find out that you're out of dishwashing detergent when the dishwasher's already full, start by adding three or four drops of regular dishwashing soap to the dishwasher's detergent cup. Any brand or type of dish soap will work as long as it's a liquid.[1]
- If you're cleaning a particularly dirty load of dishes, you may want to bump the soap up to four or five drops.
- Fill the cup with baking soda. After you've placed the dish soap in the washer's detergent cup, add baking soda. You'll want to pour enough baking soda into the detergent cup to fill it up approximately ⅔ full.[2]
- To avoid spilling baking soda all over the interior of the dishwasher, use a spoon to carefully fill the detergent cup rather than pouring the baking soda straight from the box.
- Top off the cup with salt. Once the dish soap and baking soda are in the detergent cup, reach for a container of regular table salt. Add enough salt to the dish soap and baking soda mixture to completely fill the detergent cup.[3]
- If you only have sea or kosher salt, you can substitute either for the table salt.
- Run the dishwasher as you normally would. When you've completely filled the detergent cup with the mixture, close the compartment. Set and run your dishwasher as you usually do, and when the cycle is done, you'll have clean, sparkling dishes without any suds overflow.[4]
- Not only is this dishwasher detergent easy to make, it's cheaper than store-bought versions. Most people usually have dish soap, baking soda, and salt in their kitchen, so it's a convenient alternative to the usual dishwasher detergent.
[Edit]Mixing Up Borax-Based Dishwasher Detergent - Combine the borax, washing soda, citric acid, and kosher salt. Add 1 cup (237 g) of borax, 1 cup (237 g) of washing soda, ½ cup (118. 5 g) of citric acid, and ½ cup (124 g) of kosher salt in a large bowl or pot. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until it is well blended.[5]
- Borax is a natural mineral that is often used in cleaning products. You can find it at most grocery and big box stores in the aisle where laundry or cleaning products are sold.
- Washing soda is a water-soluble sodium salt of carbonic acid that works as a natural cleaner or cleaning booster. You can find it at many grocery and big box stores in the laundry or cleaning products aisle. If you can't find it locally, it's also available at online stores.
- Citric acid is a natural compound found in citrus fruits that is an ideal disinfectant in cleaning products. You can find it in many grocery stores where canning or brewing supplies are sold, or at health food stores and pharmacies.
- Place in a jar or jug with a lid. Once the detergent mixture is fully combined, transfer it from the bowl or pot to a jar or jug with an airtight lid. To avoid spilling the detergent all over your work surface, you may find it easier to pour the mixture into the container with a funnel.[6]
- The detergent may clump if it's exposed to moisture, so try to keep in a cool, dark closet or pantry with low humidity.
- Fill the detergent cup in your dishwasher with the mixture. When you're ready to wash a load of dishes, take 1 tablespoon (15 g) of the detergent mixture and place it in the detergent cup in your dishwasher. Run the dishwasher as you normally would.[7]
- The recipe should make enough detergent for 48 loads of dishes.
[Edit]Creating Borax-Free Dishwasher Detergent - Mix the citric acid, washing soda, baking soda, and sea salt. Combine 1 ½ cups (355.5 g) of citric acid, 1 ½ cups (355.5 g) of washing soda, ½ cup (209 g) of baking soda, and ½ cup (130 g) of sea salt in a large bowl or pot. Stir the mixture so all of the ingredients are well combined.[8]
- If you don't have sea salt, you can substitute kosher salt.
- Place the mixture in a jar. When the detergent ingredients are fully mixed, carefully transfer it to a jar or other container. Make sure to choose a container with an airtight lid because the borax-free detergent is especially prone to clumping when exposed to high humidity.[9]
- If you live in an area with high humidity, place 2 tablespoons (30 g) of powdered bentonite clay inside a piece of cheesecloth or pantyhose. Secure the fabric so the clay won't spill out, and throw the packaged clay into your container of detergent. The clay will absorb the excess moisture so the detergent doesn't clump.
- Use the detergent mixture as you would premade detergent. When you need to wash a load of dishes, place 1 tablespoon (15 g) of the detergent mixture in the dishwasher's detergent cup. Set the dishwasher as you normally would, and allow the cycle to run.[10]
[Edit]Forming Homemade Dishwasher Tabs - Combine all of the ingredients in a bowl. In a large bowl or pot, mix together 2 cups (474 g) of washing soda, 2 cups (474 g) of borax, ½ cup (124 g) kosher salt or epsom salt, ½ cup (129 ml) of vinegar, and 15 to 20 drops lemon essential oil. Stir the mixture with a spoon until it begins to clump together.[11]
- You can substitute baking soda for the washing soda.
- When you mix in the vinegar, there may be some slight fizzing. That is normal.
- Fill two ice cube trays with the mixture. Once the mixture is fully mixed and clumped together, transfer it to two ice cube trays. Load the mixture into the compartments, pressing down on it to create tightly packed cubes.[12]
- If you pack the trays the right way, you'll use up all of the detergent mixture.
- Allow the tabs to dry for a day. The tabs need to dry so they're fully hard before you use them. Place the trays in a dry, sunny area, and let them dry for at least 24 hours.[13]
- Store the tabs in an airtight container. When the tabs are dry, carefully remove them from the ice cube trays. Place them in a jar or other container with a lid, and keep them in a cool, dry location.[14]
- Make sure that the lid fits tightly on the jar that's holding the detergent tabs. You want the container to be airtight.
- Use one tab per dishwasher load. When you're ready to wash some dishes, take one tab from the jar and place it in the dishwasher's detergent cup. Run your dishwasher as you normally would for a load of clean dishes.[15]
- If you're washing a particularly dirty load of dishes, you can add three drops of dishwashing liquid into the detergent cup with the tab to boost the cleaning power.
- Making your own dishwasher detergent is a good way to ensure that you're using all-natural, non-toxic products.
- Homemade dishwasher soap is cheaper than store-bought versions, so it's ideal option if you're on a budget.
[Edit]Things You'll Need Borax-Based Dishwasher Detergent - A large bowl
- A wooden spoon
- An airtight jar or jug for storage
Borax-Free Dishwasher Detergent - A large bowl
- A wooden spoon
- An airtight jar or jug for storage
Dishwasher Tabs - A large bowl
- A wooden spoon
- Two ice cube trays
- An airtight container for storage
[Edit]References |
Nenhum comentário:
Postar um comentário