Parenting takes a lot of work and keeps us busy enough. Hence, it helps to learn tips to simplify our household work and leave more quality time to spend with the children. In addition, the tips below are meant to be low budget and save money in the long run.
Versatile vinegar
Vinegar is used in cooking and it can also be used for cleaning. Use it undiluted to clean mildew and grout stains. For windows, mix equal parts of water and vinegar and spray on the windows. Clean off with a soft cloth. If you have copper pots, use vinegar with a pinch of salt to clean and shine. You have run out of fabric softener? Try adding one cup of white vinegar during the final rinse of your wash. The vinegar is mild enough not to damage your clothing and it breaks down the soap deposits to leave your clothes soft and fresh.
Baking soda
Use baking soda to get rid of cockroaches. Mix equal parts of baking soda and powdered sugar and place in infested areas. They love the sugar but the soda will poison them. Baking soda is also useful in getting rid of mice. Just sprinkle the areas with pure baking soda.
If you are always faced with dirty socks, pre-soak them with a baking soda solution first. This will loosen the soil and enables them to be easier to clean.
Mix four tablespoons of baking soda with a quart of warm water to scrub and deodorize your microwave. To clean your walls or other surfaces, use the following mixture of one-fourth cup of baking soda, a half cup of white vinegar, one cup of ammonia and a gallon of water.
Carpet freshener
Make your own freshener by mixing three-fourths cup of baking soda, one-fourth cup of talcum powder, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and a few drops of your favorite scent (optional). Sprinkle this mixture all over your carpet and leave for about fifteen minutes. Vacuum the carpet and your carpet will smell fresh and clean again.
Salt trick
Instead of using color safe bleaches, try using a few pinches of salt to the wash water. Salt is milder compared to bleach and your clothes will retain their colors and last longer. Mix some salt with vinegar to shine your glasswares. Salt is also effective as a flea repellent. Use salt water to wash your pet and the fleas will stay away.
If you like to use candles but hate the dripping wax, soak the candles for a few hours in a very salty solution. Dry the candles before lighting and you will have drip-free candles.
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