Please enjoy our Tip of the Day. Keep scrolling for more tips! We hope you'll take some time to browse through our archived list below.  We strive to include tips that will make your busy days easier, eliminate time and work intensive household chores and occasionally remind you of upkeep and maintainence that sometimes gets overlooked.  

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TODAY'S TIP OF THE DAY: 

When was the last time you ran the vacuum along the back of the refrigerator? Can’t remember?  It’s probably time you do then!

ARCHIVED TIPS:

The National Fire Protection Association recommends keeping trees at least 3 feet away from any heat source, and getting rid of the trees right after Christmas. Be sure to keep them well watered too!

In winter, the hot water in a tank can cool quickly, which makes the boiler work more frequently to heat it up again. Wrap an insulation blanket around your water heater to reduce electricity consumption.

If you haven’t done it already it would be a good day to mark your driveway and walkways so they can be shoveled or plowed easily when “it” happens.

Ink Stain?  Try this - Apply white toothpaste, then rub vigorously with the fabric.

Sunscreen can quiet a squeaky door hinge when you don’t have any WD-40 handy!

Be sure to check your furnace exhaust vents - (they're outside) snow can pile up or get blown around to plug it up. Then your furnace can't work properly, struggling for intake air.

Keep an eye on your vehicle that animals aren't taking residence during the colder weather. Check in hidden sections under the hood for nesting materials. Bang on the hood before starting your vehicle to scare them off.

During winter months there are things you can do to keep your home safe from pipe bursts. Wrap your pipes, keep your home at 65 degrees or more and know where your home’s water shutoff is located, so you can quickly shut off your water in an emergency.

Odor absorbers like baking soda, charcoal briquettes, and kitty litter are all effective to help eliminate those musty mildew smells that may pop up in certain rooms of your home.  The permanent solution is to find the source and remove it (boxes of clothing, papers, many things will get damp and hold the dampness) but in the meantime place a container in the offending room and change it every month.

It’s that time of year again.  Make sure you clean your gutters and get those fall leaves out so they don’t create clogs that can cause expensive damage to your home.

Use this nice weather to get out and cut back any dead branches hanging over your house. In stormy, windy, or icy weather, these could fall and potentially cause serious damage and injury.

Have you changed your furnace filter for the season?  Changing your furnace filter is one of the easiest things you can do to keep your furnace in good working condition.  It's going to be heating season before you know it.  Pick up a new filter and change it now!

Planning on planting shrubs this fall?  The closest a medium-height shrub should be to your home is 3 feet, but a tall shrub should be planted at least 5 feet from your home.

Back to School Tip: Choose a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back.  

Seems like a lot of bees around-good for plants & flowers, bad for you getting stung. Hurts like,,,heck! Quick-grab some baking soda! make a paste to put on the bite!

The weather may not require air conditioning much longer but it's still smart to make sure it's running to the best of its ability.  Restricted airflow will reduce the efficiency of your air conditioner, to keep the air flowing, dust or vacuum vents regularly, and don’t let blinds, furniture, or toys block them. 

You know those plastic carriers for some drinks? Take a minute and cut them up so animals can't get stuck in them!

Check your pool filters (couple times a day), A/C units, outside refrigerators, anything that has a fan motor for cottonwood. It'll will clog & eventually slow the intake air and possibly heat up or damage the equipment.

Use peroxide to clean mirrors. No streaking or smearing! Just spray on and wipe with a newspaper or paper towel.

This one we haven't tried and various people say hair spray works on clothing to remove marker, but apparently try to do it before you wash the item!

Fall veggies are started in July and planted in August so it's not to late to get a garden in!

We haven’t tried this but would love to know if it really works: Soak cotton balls in bleach (use rubber gloves) and lay them on the darker grout mold and mildew stains in bathroom grout. Leave them overnight and supposedly the mold will be gone by morning. Let us know if you try it!

Did you know that a few tablespoons of Epsom salt spread around your garbage cans will deter racoons?  Apparently they don't like the taste of Epsom salt!  (You'll need to reapply after rains.)

You’ve probably already taken the patio furniture out for use.  If you didn’t do this yet, check for signs of rust or paint erosion and if you find any, use a spray enamel now.  It will extend the life of the furniture.

Put some vinegar in an ice tray and let it freeze.  Then run the ice cubes through the sink garbage disposal. This serves two functions, it freshens the garbage disposal and the ice sharpens the blades.

Winter can cause a lot of damage to a home if not maintained. Winter storms and ice may have caused leaves and dirt to get trapped in your rain gutters and down spouts. Take the time to check them. Water blockage is a leading cause of damage to a home.

This tip is for a slow-moving drain not a fully clogged drain.  Pour a cup of baking soda into the drain then heat up a cup of vinegar and pour it on top of the baking soda. Wait 10 minutes.  Pour a pot of boiling water down the drain.  This works wonders!

Are you looking for a simple, fairly reasonable way to make some kind of change to your home? Paint is always the obvious choice but here's another less common idea...install a runner on your stairs. And just like that, transformation!

Have you been in the attic since winter ended? Take a minute to search for signs that indicate insects and critters have colonized…or better yet…that they haven’t!

If you like to make a few days or even a week’s worth of salads but are worried about the lettuce going bad, try this:  Place a couple paper towels on top of the salad before you put on the lid. The towels will absorb any water lost from the leaves and keep them from getting wet and discolored.

Spring is a good time to have the carpets cleaned after the long winter with lots of foot traffic.

Yeah!! Nicer weather heading our way! Isn't the yard a mess? Have your mower serviced, replace old gas & fill with fresh (now - expensive) gas & new oil. 

tore paint brushes for a period of several hours or more by wrapping the entire head of the brush in plastic wrap or a plastic zip lock style bag. Create as airtight of a seal as possible.  In a day, two, even more, you can use the same brush to put the second coat on.

Baking Soda is an abrasive as well as a natural whitener which makes it the perfect product for cleaning grout.

Trouble cutting squash?  Tap the knife with a kitchen mallet.  Such a simple solution, why haven't we thought of that before?!

Good chance to go through old unwanted Christmas decorations and of course, those lights that don't work. Donate or discard!

Going away for a few days?  Set your thermostat to maintain an average room temperature of no less than 55 degrees to keep the inside of the walls and pipes warm.

Don't allow yourself to get stressed out during the holidays. Stop and enjoy. Don't have time or patience to wrap? Get gift bags and tissue and throw the present in it! DONE!

Plan easier meals, ask for help, might not get done like you'd do but it's getting taken care of. 

If it has been a few years since your last chimney cleaning, now is a good time to schedule one!

Time to unravel last year's Christmas lights!!!

Peroxide can be used for so many things! Check out this link !  An example is pour peroxide on your cutting board after you rinse/clean it!

You may not want to do this all year (or you may!) but at least for the holidays when the fridge gets an abundance of use try this: place cling wrap on the shelves of your fridge and when the spills occur you can simply remove the cling wrap and replace without a ton of time or effort!

Has the soil around your foundation settled?  If water is pooling at the foundation, level the low spots with soil so there won’t be problems when the soil freezes and then thaws this winter.

Teach everyone in your home how to use a fire extinguisher using the acronym PASS:

Pull the pin to release the handle;

Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire;

Squeeze the trigger;

Sweep the discharge stream at the base of the fire.

In fact, it wouldn’t hurt to put a sticker with the acronym on the fire extinguisher itself.

Time to do some fall cleaning, now that the house will be closed up, clean the wall or floor vents, remove them and vacuum down into the ductwork. Preferably get all your ductwork professionally cleaned, same as having your furnace cleaned before it starts up. (We recommend Indoor Air Professionals 585-427-8020)

Regular white toothpaste or mildly abrasive liquid soap can polish fine scratches out of glass.

Have you put your lawn mower away?  Did you drain the gas?  Gas goes bad!  Your lawn mower could very possibly have issues next spring if you leave the gas in it all winter.

Gutters - extend the downspouts out 10' (or more) is preferred from the foundation,  Check the ground around your home,  build it up higher next to the foundation and then it should also slope down &  away from the house, build it up higher next to the foundation.

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again.  Clogged rain gutters or downspouts can damage your home’s foundation or cause ice dams, which can lead to expensive repairs! Clean your gutters after the leaves have fallen!

You can’t find that ¼ cup measuring cup anywhere and you’re about to throw the whole bowl of ingredients.  Don’t!  A stick of butter is 1/2 cup and has tablespoons, and usually 1/4 and 1/3 cup marked on the label.  It’s a great “hack” for measuring when the measuring cups or spoons just cannot be found!

Squeaky wood floors?  Spread glue on both sides of a thin wooden shim and tap it into the space between the floor joist and plywood subfloor where the squeak is. Filling the void should stop the squeaking.

Uh-oh, cold weather crept in quickly! Be ready! Get your cold weather gear out! Do you need new gloves, or boots? Time to get them while you can! Kids have probably outgrown theirs or lost one glove! 

Sunscreen can quiet a squeaky door hinge when you don’t have any WD-40 handy!

Dishwasher smell removal tip: when dishwasher is empty, fill a glass cup with one cup of distilled white vinegar.  Put it carefully on the top rack of your dishwasher. Run the dishwasher through a single cycle on the hottest setting. When finished, leave the door open for about an hour to let the dishwasher air out completely.

Before winter (and winter storms) make sure there are no tree branches overhanging your home.  Besides the damage if they should come down, tree branches can cause excess water to seep into cracks in your home’s roof or siding.

Inspect window and door caulking and weatherstripping before the cold weather finds us!

Once a week, pour 1/4 cup baking soda down each of your kitchen drains, followed by 1/2 cup vinegar. Let this sit in the drain for 20 minutes or more. Flush the drains with the boiling water.

Test all GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets monthly. Press the test button and use a voltage tester to make sure the power goes off.

Check your vehicle tires, have enough tread to get you through winter? 

Now's a good time to clean out your vehicle before it's cold with blowing snow! Take out the chairs, coolers, sports stuff, garbage, etc. Then stock it with de-icer, snow brush, shovel, blankets, flashlight, snacks in case you get stuck somewhere! Be prepared better to have too much than not any!

Deep chips, wide cracks, crumbling sections.  If any of these describe your sidewalk, driveway or patio you really should consider fixing them now so you don't have to completely tear out and replace later.

When was the last time you removed your washing machine’s dispenser drawer to clean?  Remove and/or wipe down the drawer if you haven’t lately.

Did you know? Your dishwasher has a filter that collects food or even pieces of labels, etc. That filter needs to be cleaned fairly regularly. Read your manual or search your dishwasher model online to find out where the filter is, how to remove and replace. You'll be surprised at the "collection"!

Wipe your tools down with a rag or old towel after each use to be sure they are free of dust, grease, and debris before you put them into their proper places.  You do put them in their proper places after each use, don’t you?

For stinky microwaves, put two tablespoons of vanilla in a glass bowl, heat for 30 seconds, then let it sit inside the microwave for a few hours.

Clean odd shaped and tight necked bottles by putting a handful of rice in the bottle, a cup of warm water and a teaspoon of detergent. Screw the lid back on and give it a few vigorous shakes. Rinse and you have a nice clean bottle!

It's a good practice to lubricate the tools that have adjustable parts with an all-purpose oil, like WD-40.

Have you ever used Coca-Cola as a marinade? Its acidity can tenderize meat, adds sugar for sweetness and helps the meat caramelize on the grill.

Eliminate germs periodically from your cell phone with an alcohol wipe, you’d be surprised how ‘germy’ a cell phone can get!

A wood deck should be pressure-washed and re-stained about every 3 years.

A squeegee run across a carpet will loosen and pull up a lot of pet hair.  The best part of this is that kids love doing this!  You get the squeegee the kids do the work...can't beat that!

Bathroom ceiling vent fans collect a lot of dust making them less efficient than they should be. They’re simple to clean, just remove the cover and vacuum out the dust!

Vacuum out your furnace vents, intake and outtake, they accumulate a lot of dust.

We’ve said this one before but it’s an important one… clean the dryer vent and exhaust duct. Clean out all of the dust and lint trapped in the vent and exhaust duct.

Can’t reach the ceiling fans to dust them? Attach a dryer sheet to a paint roller so you can reach easily and dust away!

Use your kids slime to clean up your keyboard. It sounds odd but it sticks to crumbs and dust between your keys and lifts it easily out giving you a cleaner keyboard.

Remove rust from a wrench, or any tools for that matter.  Just dip them and keep them dipped in coke for 15-20 mins and then wash them off.

Summer brings skinned knees and sometimes bloodstained clothing.  To remove blood from clothing soak the stain in a mixture of vinegar and warm water, then dab it out.

To eliminate coffee stains - blot, then dab with a mixture of one tablespoon of liquid dish soap, one tablespoon of white vinegar, and two cups of warm water. 

Did you know you can eliminate oil and grease stains if you cover the area with baking soda, baby powder, or cornstarch to soak up the grease as soon as possible after the spill?

If you are or will be receiving child tax credit payments; these are prepayments based on 2020 tax information.  KEEP TRACK OF THESE PAYMENTS!  If excess amounts are received due to 2021 income information being different, the excess amounts will have to be repaid.  Keep in mind also that the amount of child tax credit you can take on your 2021 return may impact the amount of the return due to some of it already being paid therefore you may not receive as large of a refund as you've been used to in the past.

A diluted solution of aspirin water for plants provides some resistance to disease and pests. Aspirin in vegetable gardens has been shown to increase plant size and yield.  (The solution is one or two regular aspirin tablets per gallon of water. Treatments are made once every three weeks throughout the growing season.)

If you use both sunscreen and insect repellent, apply sunscreen first.

Grass Stain? Mix baking soda and a few drops of dish soap. Soak for a few hours and then wash as usual.

Dip aluminum foil into clean water and then rub it against the rust on chrome tools, it will bring your old tools back to life for many more years!

Plant shade trees! One of the best ways to save money on cooling is to plant shade trees along the exterior of your home, you’ll be improving the curbside appearance at the same time!

Small tear in a window screen? No problem!  Simply use a few drops of clear nail polish to act as an invisible glue and your screen will be good as new.  Just repair it quickly before the small tear becomes a large one!

Did you know that the astringent properties in tea tannins can help cut grease?  Add a few tea bags and hot water to a grease pot before you begin scrubbing!

Spring & early Summer is the time of year  for "wild" animals to mate, prepare, have their babies and then provide for them. You may see a normally nocturnal animal out during the day, it doesn't automatically mean it has rabies, it may be looking for food for her babies. Unless they're looking sickly, wobbly or aggressive - sometimes none of these - just let them alone. Also, if you see a fawn in the grass all by itself, mama will be back for it so leave it there.

You have a squeaky door that’s driving you nuts but no WD-40?  No problem.  Grab the cooking spray from the cabinet and give the door hinge a quick spray.  Good as new!

Achieve the perfect caulk edge using painter’s tape, just be sure to remove the tape while the caulk is still wet.

Be sure to change out hummingbird food every few days, especially during hot weather. And leave a bowl or bucket of water for birds, rabbits, squirrels, etc.

Remodeling magazine says that while it may not be the most exciting upgrade, replacing your current garage door with an upgraded model will yield you 98.3 percent in recouped costs. Now that’s money well spent!

Is there a bad smell in the garbage can that you just CANNOT get rid of?  This sounds a bit crazy but give it a try!  Pour vinegar over a slice of bread, drop it into the bottom of your trash can (you can put parchment paper under it for easy clean up), and leave it overnight.  The next day throw away the bread and put a new bag in the can.  You’ll notice a huge difference!

We came across this tip but haven't tried it.  Let us know if it works! 
There’s a safe and easy way to check before you fire up the grill. Boil a cup of water then pour it over the side of the tank. Then, feel the tank. The point where it goes from hot (empty) to cool (filled with propane) is your propane level.

Is your phone speaker not loud enough?  Place your phone (speaker side down) in a small piece of pottery or a bowl made of ceramic, plastic or other hard material. The sound will bounce off of the bottom and amplify throughout the room.

With all the cottonwood blowing around, check your A/C units, pool filters and any other fan type appliance you have outside. It even gets on screens.  Be sure to clean these or they'll clog and cause motors to burn out.

Keep all home warranties and manuals in a safe place.

Here is a tried-and-tested hack – when you find yourself without a grill brush.  Cut an onion in half.  Stick a fork in half an onion and glide it up and down the grill grates.  The onion has enough heft and texture to break up grill gunk.

Are you tired of your black wrought iron? Clean it up and then find a fun color spray paint! There's ones that have primer and paint all in one can, simply spray it on, be sure to get underneath etc. let dry and put on another coat. It'll change up the look and keep it from rusting.

Before you fill your pots with soil, line the bottoms with coffee filters. The filters will keep soil in the pots while still allowing water to drain out of the hole in the bottom.

Watch out for bees, wasps, yellow jackets, hornets, etc. read up about which are beneficial, such as honey bees, and which to "not have around"!

You’ve probably already taken the patio furniture out for use.  If you didn’t do this yet, check for signs of rust or paint erosion and if you find any use a spray enamel now.  It will extend the life of the furniture.

Ink Stain?  Try this - Apply white toothpaste, then rub vigorously with the fabric.

Before it is time to turn the ac on, check around windows for leakage.  When you do turn the ac on you don’t want the cooled air escaping.  Check caulking and weather stripping and make sure it is intact.

It's a good idea to periodically check around the washing machine (and dishwasher) for leaks.  To check to see if a water inlet valve is leaking remove the bottom plate (where it's located in most makes and models) on the front of your dishwasher and check the water valve. A leak will usually be a slow drip coming from the top of the valve.

Have you been in the attic since winter ended?  Take a minute to search for signs that indicate insects and critters have colonized…or better yet…that they haven’t!

Stain Removal Guide for Red Wine – Cover with salt or baking soda, then blot.

Tape Measure Nail Grab is on nearly every measuring tape, you’ll find a small slot on the end hook. It’s there to grab onto the end of a nail or screw. If you don’t have anyone to hold the other end of the tape, you just need to hammer in a nail or insert a screw and hook the end of the tape onto it to get a clear and accurate measurement.

Stain Removal for Chocolate – Cover with laundry detergent for 10 minutes, then soak in cold water before laundering.

For a Front Loader Washing Machine Gasket:

Pack the rubber folds of the gasket with paper towels soaked in hydrogen peroxide. Leave it to soak for a few hours before wiping down clean and dry.

For a Top Loader Washing Machine :

Use a paper towel soaked in hydrogen peroxide to wipe around the opening of the machine. Try to get between the tub rim and top edges, and all the areas that the water can’t get to.

Hot water heaters typically are set at 140 degrees. Lower the temperature on yours to 120 for fuel savings.  You’ll reduce the chance of accidental burns, and the water still will be plenty hot for bathing, washing clothes and doing dishes.

Is there a musty scent or odor coming from your furniture?  Eliminate smells from chairs, couches, mattresses and even pet beds by sprinkling surfaces with baking soda, let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum it up.

Ready to start your spring cleaning?  Make sure you start from the ceiling and work your way down otherwise you will find yourself having to re-dust or re-clean. 

Thank to MEGHAN TELPNER for this:

Fun Health Facts About Mint It activates salivary glands, getting the digestive juices flowing and soothes stomach inflammation. Eases sensations of nausea and when applied topically, is very useful in banishing headaches. Helpful when dealing with congestion as compounds in mint aid in opening up the nasal passage as well as those of the lungs and bronchi. Freshens breath (we all know this one!) and inhibits the growth of bacteria inside the mouth. Soothes the digestive tract and reducing the severity and length of stomach aches. Eases the discomfort associated with irritable bowel syndrome. Slows the growth of many of the most harmful bacteria and fungi. Can be helpful for allergies and asthma thanks to the well-documented antifungal properties. Mint contains a phytonutrient called perillyl alcohol, which has been shown to prevent the formation of colon, skin and lung cancer.

 

Teach everyone in your home how to use a fire extinguisher using the acronym PASS:

Pull the pin to release the handle;

Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire;

Squeeze the trigger;

Sweep the discharge stream at the base of the fire.

In fact, it wouldn’t hurt to put a sticker with the acronym on the fire extinguisher itself.

As the weather begins to get warmer it is a good time to take a walk around the house to inspect gutters and downspouts for damage and debris.

GRILL YOUR MEAT TO THE PROPER INTERNAL TEMPERATURE.

Rare: 125 degrees F + 3 minutes of resting time

Medium rare: 130 to 135 degrees F

Medium: 135 to 140 degrees F

Medium well: 140 to 150 degrees F

Well done: 155+ degrees F

Ground: 160 degrees F

Inspect and tune up any lawn maintenance equipment before you need it.

It is important to regularly leak test your BBQ gas bottle, regulator and hose. Leaks from these items are frequently the cause of BBQ gas fires. Spray or brush a soapy solution on the gas value, the hose, and the regulator. Stand back and take a look. Soap bubbles will instantly form and grow if there is a gas leak in any of the components.

Daylight saving time will begin at 2:00 AM on Sunday, March 14.

How to Test Your GFCI Outlet:  Plug something in to the GFCI outlet and turn it on.  Push the TEST button.  It should trip and stop the flow of electricity to the plugged-in item.  Restore power by pressing the RESET button.

Use a dryer sheet to restore the shine to your chrome fixtures; kitchen, bathroom, wherever there's chrome!

3 easy ways to add Curb Appeal to your home this spring. Paint the front door, upgrade your mailbox, and install new house numbers!

If it has been a few years since your last chimney cleaning, now is a good time to schedule one!

In winter, the hot water in a tank can cool quickly, which makes the boiler work more frequently to heat it up again. Wrap an insulation blanket around your water heater to reduce electricity consumption.

Going away for a few days?  Set your thermostat to maintain an average room temperature of no less than 55 degrees to keep the inside of the walls and pipes warm.

Did you know most dishwashers have a filter that should be cleaned regularly? Most likely located on the area that drains in the interior of the washer. Check online or your manual.

This mixture will clean, sharpen, and deodorize your disposal: Purchase a cheap ice cube tray, fill it with a mixture of 1 cup baking soda, 1 ½ cup water, and a small piece of lemon. Let it freeze and then put half the ice cubes into your disposal and turn it on. Run some water and pour the remaining cubes into the disposal.

More Info than Tip:  Aluminum, Brass, Bronze, Galvanized Steel, Stainless Steel, COR-TEN Steel, Copper, Titanium, and noble metals such as Gold, Silver, and Platinum are all metals that do not rust. They can corrode, stain, or tarnish, but they will not rust.

It’s not unheard of for cats and dogs to chew on Christmas tree limbs, but watch to be sure they are not doing this. Ingested pine needles could get lodged in the intestinal tract, puncturing the lining, or bunching together and causing an intestinal obstruction.

Several seasonal plants are poisonous to pets if nibbled or eaten, including ivy, holly, mistletoe and poinsettias.

If you don’t use your grill in the winter and are storing it indoors, don't bring the tank inside, even into the garage or a storage shed. A small gas leak can cause a huge explosion if the tank is stored in an enclosed space.

If you have window wells around your home be sure to clean all the leaves out of them.  Leaves can act like a pool liner and the water can rise until the pressure breaks the glass.  Be proactive and clean those window wells!

Dozens of Christmas tree fires occur across the U.S. in December and January every year, prompting fire protection experts to sound the alarm about safety during the holidays. The ubiquity of Christmas trees, candles and decorative lights makes December one of the most dangerous months for home fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association.  
The National Fire Protection Association recommends keeping trees watered and at least 3 feet away from any heat source, and getting rid of the tree after Christmas.

Latex caulk freezes and will be ruined if you leave it in a garage or shed over the winter.  Bring it inside!

Sometimes the best meals leave an odor that is not exactly appealing.  If you want to rid the kitchen of that odor before company comes, try this.  Cook an unpeeled whole lemon in the oven at 300 degrees for 15 minutes, leave the door slightly ajar the entire cooking time.  Turn the oven off after 15 minutes and let the lemon cool before removing it.

Have you changed your furnace filter for the season?  Changing your furnace filter is one of the easiest things you can do to keep your furnace in good working condition.  Did you put a new filter in before you turned the furnace on this year?  If not you should pick one up and change it now!

Bring the paint cans into the house if they are currently being stored in a garage or shed where they will freeze.  

Easy Wine Rack!  Quick, click that link and do this before the holidays and have your wine supply ready to go!

Clean all those wet autumn leaves from gutter spouts before the blockages damage your gutters!

Don't use straight ammonia, alkaline products, or abrasive cleaners on hardwood floors. They will dull (and could scratch) the finish.

Spray a light amount of hairspray onto your clothes before putting them on. This quick trick works like a charm to eliminate static, a great tip especially for traveling!

Store paint brushes for a period of several hours or more by wrapping the entire head of the brush in plastic wrap or a plastic zip lock style bag. Create as airtight of a seal as possible.  In a day, two, even more, you can use the same brush to put the second coat on.

So, someone wrote on the painted walls with crayons?  Scrub the crayon marks with toothpaste, rinse, and wipe. 

Oops, did you get super glue on your fingers? Soak a cloth with nail polish remover and hold on the area until the glue disappears.

Oil based paint on your hands and you have nothing in the house to remove it?  This works...rub cooking oil into the paint on your hands and then rub Dawn dish detergent on top of that, rinse, repeat if needed.  It really works!!

This really works.  To clean cabinet hardware put it in a crock pot, cover it with water and turn on high for 4 hours.  This works great if you want to clean it thoroughly to paint it for a new look!

NEVER mix bleach with other household cleansers - poisonous gasses are released which can prove injurious or fatal!

Do you have an automatic ice machine?  You may not realize that ice absorbs freezer odors. It’s a good habit to empty out your bin every month.

Ketchup can remove tarnished spots from silverware and other silver items. Try it!

Clean your exhaust fan with canned air.  (The same kind you use to clean your keyboard) Dust and dirt can build up in your exhaust fan, making it less efficient, and canned air can get it clean. 

Is your nose picking up funky smells or are you seeing stains in your carpet? Simply fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and spray any stains evenly (just take care not to soak the stain). Then, let the area dry. That’s it. Try it. It works.

If you own a pet, you should own a lint roller too!  A lint roller is incredibly helpful in picking up the fur on your furniture when you don’t have time (or energy) to vacuum.

Vodka, like most alcohol, is a natural disinfectant.  Here is a fantastic way to use vodka as a disinfectant: Spray a light layer of vodka onto your mattress to kill bacteria and disinfect the surface. Allow it to dry and then replace your sheets.

To clean a humidifier or diffuser, add two cups of 3% hydrogen peroxide to one gallon of water. Pour it into the humidifier’s water tank and filter, scrub it, and let it sit for 10 to 30 minutes. Then rinse the base in clean water and leave it to air dry.

When you get an ink stain try soaking a cotton ball in hydrogen peroxide and then dab the soaked cotton ball on the ink stain. After that, just wash your stained clothes as you always do.

Get the perfect caulk edge with painter’s tape.  Remove the tape while the caulk is still wet to avoid uneven edges.

Since carnivals aren't allowed by NYS Governor, let's support the local fire depts. Send them a check for what you would spend if they had it. Carnivals and parades are a way for the fire dept. to raise much needed funds, don't let them down. Thank you.

If you have a blood-stained towel, add some hydrogen peroxide to the affected area, and let it sit. Then, rinse under warm water with soap. Repeat if it doesn’t come out the first time, but it should make a big difference!

You can never over maintain a home!  When you are outside and enjoying the weather, peek at your home’s exterior.  Make a visual check of the chimney, exterior walls, foundation, and windows.  Look for water stains, cracks, and anything that looks out of the ordinary. You can never over maintain a home!

If you spray a mixture of one teaspoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide and one whole cup of water on your plants, your plants will grow quicker, stronger, and healthier. Hydrogen peroxide releases oxygen, and plants need oxygen for growth. Hydrogen peroxide also kills off any potential plant diseases, fungi, and root infections.

Gardening tools, hammers, screwdrivers, and nails can get rusty over time, especially if they’re left in a damp environment. A rusty tool can always be brought back to its former glory, though. All you need is a small amount of hydrogen peroxide. Just rub the stuff onto the rusted area of the tool with a bit of steel wool or a stiff brush.  (Always test this technique out before you start rubbing hydrogen peroxide all over your tools though because H2O2 can react with some metal alloys.)

Some say that Clorox bleach gel toilet bowl cleaner cleans floor grout better than grout cleaner does!  The suggested method is to let the cleaner sit on the grout for about 15 minutes, scrub with an old toothbrush, and then just mop it all up with water.

Adding caulk around windows and doors can help you save on energy bills and make your home more comfortable. 

Three.  That is the minimum number of estimates to get when doing any home improvement project.

Did you know that you can lubricate a sticky zipper with a little bit of olive oil?  Put a little bit on a cloth and wipe it up and down the teeth of the zipper. 

When you are outside on the deck and you notice loose boards don’t ignore them.  Loose boards can be a hazard and it takes no time at all to nail them down.

Does your home feel damp and uncomfortable?  To help improve ventilation; open windows when practical, run your central air system more frequently, or use fans to introduce fresh air into the house.

Avoid caffeine and alcohol as these will promote dehydration.  I know I know, it’s not a popular bit of advice but when it’s this hot out you really should consider abstinence!

If you don’t have a power washer or if you prefer a more gentle method, you can clean paver stones with a wet mop using a mixture of water and dishwasher soap.

Here's a way to save a bit of the dripping when you hand out popsicles to the kids.  Slip a cupcake liner on the stick up to the popsicle.  It will help collect the drips!

Cut a lemon in half and sprinkle it with salt.  Now use that to clean and polish your stainless steel sink.  Then throw the lemon down the disposal to make the whole kitchen smell good!

A good touch up paint job makes your home look nice but more importantly it provides a protective barrier from the elements.  Repair any cracked or peeling paint, pay special attention to the window and door trim.

It's a stressful time, try to limit how much time you listen to or watch the news - it can drive you crazy!  Watch a comedy or a musical to lighten the mood! Take a walk, or just get outside for fresh air. 

Now is a good time to see what needs to be done at your house and start lining up contractors. Put calls into them, follow up if they don't get back to you within a week or so (many offices are closed so might take longer to get the messages). Once this mess is over it'll be a rush to get work done, so be pro-active to already have you on the schedule!

Whatever you do, Do NOT flush the cleaning wipes, paper towel, even baby wipes down the toilet! 

Click Here see what types of milk freeze best.

We have to try to stay positive.  Use this time to clean, read, accomplish something that you just haven't had time to do - within your house/yard - of course!

Is your Keurig acting up?  Don’t immediately rush out and purchase a new one, there are lots of tips and tricks online to fix most issues that arise with Keurig coffee makers.

Cleaning window screens with a lint roller makes easy work of an otherwise tricky job.  Give it a try, you’ll be amazed at how clean the screen looks. Spring is on the way, might as well get ready now!!

Xylitol is a naturally occurring substance that is widely used as a sugar substitute.  If you use this sweetener at home please make sure to be careful if you have a pup, it is highly toxic to dogs.

Let's talk about something else than what is all over the news.  Now that the snow is gone, walk around your yard, what are your plans for your garden? Do different flowers? Plant new trees? Have a paver patio installed? Get planning and contact the companies that can get it done!!

If you haven’t changed the furnace filter in the last six months you should do it now.  A dirty filter forces your system to work harder which translates to more money out of your wallet.

Before guests arrive, boil a small pot of water with a few drops of vanilla extract in it.  Let it simmer for a few minutes and the entire house will smell amazing.  The downside is that your guests might expect a fresh out of the oven treat!

When was the last time you ran the vacuum along the back of the refrigerator? Can’t remember?  It’s probably time you do then!

Now is a good time to meet with various contractors for work you need/want done in and around your home. The winter months are usually easier to have appointments and get on their schedule for the spring!

Make a list of everything that needs doing in the lead up to the holidays and delegate tasks to everyone in the family. 

Last minute guests stopping by?  Feather dusters work great for a quick cleaning in a hurry.  Pick one up next time you’re at the store and keep it handy during the holidays…and all year for that matter!

The easy way to clean an artificial house plant: Give the leaves a quick wipe with a baby wipe, it will remove dust and get that brilliant sheen back!

Do the kids have the glitter out again?  Clean the spilled glitter with a piece of tape or a roller brush. 

Tired of cleaning spots off the faucet?  Clean it as usual and dry it.  Now rub some wax paper over it.  The wax paper leaves a residue you can't see, and it will keep water spots from showing.

Mildew in the bathroom shower can easily happen.  Put hydrogen peroxide in a trigger-spray bottle, spray it on and let it sit for about 5 minutes.  It will kill the fungus and clean off easily.

Check the air pressure in your tires.  Cold weather causes the pressure to lower.

When the rodents sneak in during these colder months, homeowners often turn to rat and mouse poisons.  Please remember these products are highly toxic to pets and, if ingested, the results could be fatal.  Use with extreme caution and put them in places inaccessible to your pets.

The ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center classifies all ice melt products as being chemical irritants that can cause gastrointestinal signs, like vomiting and diarrhea, and topical irritation to the paw pads and skin.

Thanksgiving Prep Tip - Use your cooler as a warming drawer — it's insulated, after all. Line your cooler with aluminum foil, add some folded towels and fill it with hot dishes keeping them hot while freeing the oven for the next dishes that need to cook.

So busy getting ready for the holidays, but take a moment, sit back, does everything really need to get done? Re-evaluate, shorten the must-do, to 'nope, doesn't need to do'!

Your sump pump is a very important component of your home so make sure it’s working properly. Slowly pour a few gallons of water into the pit to make sure the pump turns on. Better to test it now than to find out it isn’t working when you really need it.

We found this tip online. Remove water stains from shower glass by applying shaving cream and let it sit for 15 minutes, then wipe off. Really? Has anyone tried this? Does anyone want to and let us know if it works?!

Most of us only put dishes in our dishwasher but why?  A dishwasher is an excellent tool for cleaning lots of items!  Plastic hair bushes, combs, headbands, barrettes, clogged shower heads, grungy faucets, sponges and brushes, fake plastic flowers, teething rings, plastic toys. With a little common sense, the list is endless!

Ok, so we're getting a wake up call with snow! It'll be gone soon but take notes of what you need to do before we get hit hard!

Add motion-activated outdoor lights so you don’t have to walk up to a dark house now that it gets dark so early. Plus, when the snow and ice come the lighting could help make your walk safer.

Don’t forget to shut off water to exterior faucets before the weather dips below freezing.

Wrap burlap around young tree trunks.  Add 12 to 18 inches of soil in a mound around the base of rosebushes.

When you know you won’t be needing them anymore, empty out unused fuel from any gas-powered equipment stored in the garage.

Do you really have to rake the leaves, or can you leave them for nature to take care of?  Leaves on a lawn over winter in a snowy area can inhibit spring growth…so yes…you need to rake the leaves!

We’ve told you this before and we’ll tell you again because it’s so important.  Clean your dryer vents!  Lint buildup in dryer vents can make your dryer work less efficiently and even cause a fire.

With falling leaves comes some dangerous situations driving especially when raining. Children love to play in leaf piles. Be aware!

You think your home is sealed but mice need only a tiny gap to be able to sneak in. As the weather gets colder they'll be looking for a home. Seal all gaps wherever you see them no matter how small!

Clean grout with toilet bowl cleaner.  Seriously, especially one that is a bleach gel.  Just squeeze a bit on the grout, scrub with a small brush and then mop with clean warm water.

What do you do with those silica gel packs that come in many products we buy?  Most of us throw them away but think about it....their purpose is absorbing moisture.  There are many places you can re-use them including your jewelry box, silica gel packs will prevent corrosion and tarnish!

As much as we don't want to think about it, the s-n-o-w and i-c-e will be coming soon. Get your car ready with maintenance, snow tires, and stocked with ice scraper, de-icer, blankets, flares, etc. Be prepared!

Squeaky floorboards? It’s probably because pieces of wood are rubbing together. To fix the issue, try squeezing a small amount of baby powder in the cracks (you can use a makeup brush also).

Cooking spray works wonders on those squeaky doors or cabinets when you’re out of WD-40.

Get ready for the holidays! Tackle those cleaning jobs now and get ahead of the deadline!

Make sure your furniture isn't blocking the heating vents in your home.

Use an apple slicer to quickly cut potatoes into perfect wedges.

Take some hours to volunteer, animal shelters have all kinds of various chores that need done! 

This was an interesting tip we heard recently. On a metal tile ceiling (like they had in the olden days and some lucky people have!)  Use dry ice to clean the  tarnish and dirt off!

People tend to light candles when the weather cools off.  Just remember, never leave candles burning if you go out or go to sleep, and keep candles safely away from pets and kids.

When sitting in an office chair, a good lumbar back support should be flush against the small of the back.  By rolling or folding a towel to the desired thickness, this support can be placed wherever the user deems fit for the most comfort and support while sitting in an office chair.

Baking Soda can eliminate pet (and other) odors.  Simply sprinkle on the area you want to freshen, let it sit for about 30 minutes, and vacuum.  

We haven’t tried this, but we’d love to know if it works.   We’ve found a tip that states you can use a can of compressed air sprayed directly onto gum that is stuck to upholstery.  Once the gum ‘freezes’ you should be able to scrape it off with a butter knife.  Let us know if you try it and if it works!

Don’t wait until it’s needed, go ahead and haul your generator out of the garage and give it a test run to make sure it is in good working order, before you need it.

Take a breather, Give  yourself time to enjoy the beautiful weather, the changing of the leaves (before you have to rake!). Time for your family and yourself.

Air vents can get quite dirty and dusty, that dirt and dust can come right back into the room. It also blocks the air from getting out. Take the time to clean those vents!

Did you know you can pop a wet sponge in the microwave for 30 seconds to remove any bacteria?  You can!  (Just give it a few seconds to cool off before picking it up after.)

Pretty soon the hummingbirds will be leaving our area,  clean and refill the feeders, they hit them hard before they head out!

Have a professional (Big Ash Fireplace & Stove) inspect your chimney before the heating season begins.

Give your garage door a good cleaning to remove grime and mildew from the summer’s heat and lawn chores. Use a rag to wipe dirt and debris out of the garage door tracks and lightly lubricate if necessary.

Did you know that many pieces of furniture have a cleaning code tag?  
W – Clean with a water-based cleaner.
S – Clean with a solvent cleaner.
S-W – Clean with either a solvent cleaner or water-based cleaner.
X – Vacuum clean only, without using any type of cleaning solution.

Fall is coming, I know, you don't want to even think about it! However, now is a good time to look over your gutters for cracks, leaks, and to clean them out before the leaves get in them! There may be debris that's adding weight and will get worse once the leaves hit! Don't feel safe doing it yourself-smart! Contact All County Gutter 585-538-4226.

Check for and remove any material blocking the drain in your dishwasher. Clean the holes in the spray arm.  Now, fill a small mug with white vinegar and place it in the top rack.  Run a full cycle with nothing but the cup of vinegar.  Once that is complete, remove the cup and sprinkle baking soda on the entire bottom of the dishwasher and run another full cycle.  You’ll be surprised how sparkly clean (and odor free) your dishwasher will be when this process is complete!

Be sure to change the air filter in your furnace and check its efficiency before the colder weather begins.

Trim tree limbs growing close to the chimney, making sure you have at least ten feet of clearance around all sides of the chimney flue.

Make a plan, put it on your calendar, inspect and clean your gutters a FEW times during the fall months.

Are you planning to do some outdoor staining?  Most stains manufacturers suggest 70 degrees Fahrenheit as the optimum outdoor temperature for staining.  They do add that the safety range is from 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.  Who wants to be staining when it’s 90 degrees out?!

In an especially warm room where the A.C. isn’t keeping up you can try placing box fans near vents to help keep air circulating.

According to The National Audubon Society; in hot weather, hummingbird feeders should be emptied and cleaned twice per week.  In cooler weather, once per week is enough.

When power washing a vinyl sided home, hold the nozzle at an angle and use an extender wand for the higher areas. You want the spray to hit the siding from above and at an angle.  Otherwise the force of the spray can get behind the siding and cause moisture problems later.

Make sure there is at least 18” of room around the sides of your air conditioner and three feet or more above the unit.  If the shrubs have grown closer than that it’s time to get the clippers out!

Check your vacuum cleaner - if it has a removeable/throw away collection bag, there should also be a foam filter. Take a look at that, chances are good it's clogged and isn't filtering or making your vacuum work harder.  Just shake it out and run water through it, dry thoroughly and replace.

Bathroom ceiling vent fans collect a lot of dust making them less efficient than they should be. They’re simple to clean, just remove the cover and vacuum out the dust!

Did you know mold and mildew can grow in the filter of your ice maker or disposable water filter?  Yes, it can!  Most manufacturers recommend replacing filters every six months.

Summer is the time to clean your garage, pick a free weekend and put it on the schedule!

Toothpaste erases marker stains from wood.

We all know standing water invites mosquitoes.  After a rain take a few minutes to dump out collected water from items like empty gardening pots or trash cans.  

Take a walk around your air conditioner to check for weeds, those cotton fluffy seeds, any debris that could clog the fan unit.

Grass should be mowed no more than once or twice a week during the hotter temperatures.  Keep your mower deck 3 to 4 inches off the ground to hold in moisture

Place an opened box of baking soda anywhere that smells a bit musty; closets, basements, campers, etc.

A wood deck should be pressure-washed and re-stained about every 3 years.

Leaving your pet - or child, in an air conditioned vehicle IS NOT SAFE! There have been instances where the A/C failed resulting in death. It is NOT a guarantee of safety.

Do NOT take your dog with you today! Not even to the park. It's too hot outside and it's only going to get hotter as the day goes on. Show your dogs how much you love them by leaving them home in the comfort of the air conditioning today! 

From the National Audubon Society; Protect birds "Reduce or eliminate pesticide and herbicide use.", "Plant native plants", Clean bird and hummingbird feeders at least weekly, if the weather is especially hot &/or rainy mold can grow quickly so more frequent cleanings are necessary, but use hot, soapy water, not chemical cleaners.

Window A.C. units should be checked to make sure they are not creating moisture that is causing damage to a window frame or sill, porch, or the siding of your house.

If you must work outside in extreme heat be aware of warning signs.  Heat cramps are painful cramps in the body’s muscles due to low salt levels and are typically caused by excessive sweating.  Symptoms of heat cramps and/or muscle spasms are usually felt in the abdomen, arms or legs. 

Always keep an eye on your pets in the heat, very important to have (clean) fresh water available. If they have to be outside, have them in shade, a dog house still gets extremely hot and is not a place for the dog to get cool.

This is NOT for marble or granite but works great on porcelain or enamel sinks and tubs.  Get ½ of a lemon and ½ cup of borax powder. Dip the lemon into the borax and then scrub the tub or sink.  It works better than commercial cleaners!

Don’t forget that snacking on fresh fruits that are rich in water, like berries, watermelon, peaches, and nectarines will help you stay hydrated.  It’s a great way to keep the kids hydrated if they won’t drink their water!

Did you know that knotted necklaces can be loosened by sprinkling with baby powder?  It’s true.  Sprinkle baby powder on the necklace and then use a pin to untangle the knot!

Microfiber cloths work best when they are used dry or with water only, cleaning products could stop the microfiber from working as effectively. Which also means, avoid using fabric conditioner or laundry detergent when cleaning them, just plain water works best.

SHOWER CLEANER:
Jim gave this out on the WHAM Home Repair Clinic and yes, he will take credit for it if it works,, if not, he knows nothing! wink

1 CUP OF WATER
2 TABLESPOONS OF BAKING SODA
1/2 CUP WHITE VINEGAR
JUICE FROM 1/2 A LEMON OR 15 DROPS ESSENTIAL OIL 
COMBINE IN A SPRAY BOTTLE

WEED-BE-GONE NATURAL FORMULA:
Instead of using Round-Up try this. Safer for the environment.

1 gallon white vinegar 
2 cups Epsom Salt
1/4 cup Dawn Dish Soap-blue original
Combine in a sprayer container and apply to weeds or grass you want to get rid of. Spray in the morning after the dew has evaporated. Natural News claims weeds will be gone by end of day-maybe a little longer!
This concoction costs about $5.00!

Try cleaning the car with a lint roller rather than a vacuum.  A lint roller picks up pet hair and crumbs and fits in places a vacuum can’t reach.

The Cottonwood Tree is releasing it's seeds causing that white fluffy stuff all over. It can clog your A/C, pool filter, anything outside with a motor & fan that runs. Check them daily and clean it out.

Sunscreen should be kept at temperatures under 77 degrees.  Storing it in places where the temperature is higher can weaken the sunscreen or make it ineffective.  

This is a safety tip you should make sure to do every year - Remove the dryer vent cover on the outside of the house, and/or pull the dryer out and detach the flexible hose from the back.  Use a special lint brush with a long handle or a vacuum cleaner with a small brush attachment to thoroughly clean the inside of the pipe and hose.  Reattach the dryer vent cover and dryer hose.

Don't freak out if you see a raccoon during the daytime at this time of year, nursing mama's are looking for food.

This is how florists keep potted plants so bright and healthy looking: Clean dusty potted plants with some mild soap and water, then use a paper towel to rub a drop of mayo into the tops of leaves to make them extra vibrant.

Eliminate germs periodically from your cell phone with an alcohol wipe, you’d be surprised how ‘germy’ a cell phone can get!

Are you doing extra work and inadvertently harming your lawn?  The only time it is necessary to remove grass clippings is when they accumulate in a thick layer.  Grass clippings left on the lawn shade the soil and reduce moisture loss due to evaporation.

Check your windshield wiper blades before you take off on your summer vacation.

Look around your yard for free foliage and flowers to create a last-minute outdoor table centerpiece.

Brick pavers last a long time, but a little extra attention can go a long way.  Grit will slowly deteriorate brick over time.  Routine sweeping to remove dirt and debris will help extend the long life of paver bricks to an even longer life.

Sunscreen generally lasts about 3 years.  If you have an old tube lying around it would be wise to replace it.  

With all the rain and then warm (hopefully) weather, your birdfeeders, pet dishes etc. get moldy quickly. Keep them cleaned regularly.

If you haven’t done it recently, now would be a good time (before the air conditioner is in full use) to change the air filter.  A quality filter will help reduce the amount of dust in your home and remove some of the pollutants from the air.

Freshen and clean the garbage disposal by tossing in orange or lemon peels and grind them up. The oil from the citrus peels will help remove buildup and it will leave a nice fresh scent.

For an easy and affordable change, consider purchasing an indoor/outdoor rug to define the seating area on your deck or patio.

Feeding the birds but not sure which type of feed to purchase?  Black oil sunflower seed appeals to the greatest number of birds. 

Tree stumps serve as woodsy and rustic outdoor side tables, with a little de-barking (only if you want) and a quick coat of sealer, you can have a very inexpensive beautiful side table.

For stubborn mildew stains on outdoor cushions try cleaning with Oxiclean, a 1:1 mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water, or a 1:1 ratio of distilled white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray directly on the mildew stains and scrub with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse with clean water and allow to dry thoroughly. Always do a test spot first!

Faucets develop a build up around them which can be very difficult to clean, try soaking a paper towel in vinegar and tucking it around the faucet where the build up has developed.  Let it sit for an hour or more.  It should clean easier now!

According to the Audubon Society, approximately one billion birds die each year from flying into windows in the United States.  Opaque decorations hanging outside windows help to prevent bird strikes.

Spring brings lots of physical activity including yard work.  Yard work brings lots of backache!  If you’re planting or weeding, instead of being on both knees, try having one leg up (bending on one knee) to stabilize your lower back.

To de-thatch or not to de-thatch? Thatch on your lawn can form a barrier that will reduce the amount of water, fertilizer, and oxygen reaching the root zone as well as harbor diseases and insects.  For a healthier lawn grab a stiff rake and get rid of thatch!

Clean your blender the easy way, after removing any large debris, add warm water and a little dish soap and turn it on pulse. Pour that out and do it again with just warm water. Much easier!

With all this rain, how are your gutters?  A little filled with debris? Leaking? Not draining as they should? Check them over and take care of the issues before it starts to affect your  basement with water, moisture, mildew, etc. 

Hummingbirds are back! Remember to clean the feeders every week at least or more if it ever gets hot out!

Carpets looking a bit tired?  Steam cleaning helps lift stains and refresh the fibers bringing some freshness back into them!

Check your sump pump to make sure it’s draining properly. You do not want to wait until you need it to find out that the pump’s motor is no longer working!

Spring cleaning short cut: use a sticky lint roller to remove a winter’s worth of dust from curtains.

When mowing keep an eye for bunnies nesting in the grass, and if your grass is quite high-and you're in an area with deer, there may be a fawn nestled down in that grass.

Winter can leave all sorts of debris in the gutters, Spring is a good time to get them cleaned out!

When was the last time you cleaned your mattress? Start by vacuuming the surface and then sprinkle with baking soda. Leave this while you read a few chapters of your book, when you return, vacuum the baking soda and put a nice clean set of sheets on.

Pressure washing your deck is a great way to clean it, but make sure to use the correct spray nozzle, a powerful stream can damage the wood.  Hold the spray at an angle and use a consistent motion.

Get a home inspection just to know the condition of your home and any updates or repairs that should be done sooner than later! Jim Salmon Home Inspections 585-589-5650

Use A Lint Roller to Clean Screen Doors.

Schedule your HVAC system’s bi-annual checkup and servicing now between the heating & cooling seasons.

Adopt a pet! Also be sure to have it neutered or spayed so not to add to the population of unwanted pets.

It should be warm enough this weekend to get the outdoor furniture ready!  If you find your cushions have mildew stains, mix half water and half distilled white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray directly on the mildew stains and scrub with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse with clean water and allow to dry.  If the cushions are simply dirty scrub them with sudsy water (dish soap and water) and rinse thoroughly.

Crock pots can be a wonderful way to have dinner ready but sometimes they get to be a baked on, caked on, mess!  If this happens fill the pot with water & 1/4 cup of baking soda, then cook on high for three to four hours.  Dump out the water and clean with soap and water.

This is a good time of the year to prune branches that didn’t make it through the winter.  

Yeah! Some sunshine!! How clean do your windows look? Don't want to do it yourself? Rochester Window Cleaning will! 585-235-1200

It's time to store your snow blower for the season. Yay!  Make sure you drain the fuel or add a stabilizer before you tuck it far away and out of sight!

Keep your tomatoes at room temperature instead of in the fridge. Take it one step further and store them stem side down to keep them fresh longer.

The sun is shining, get ahead of the game and begin cutting back perennials and pulling up old annuals.

Good time to go through your "outdoor" tools! Rakes, pruners, hoses, sprayers, etc. Are your's shot? Need to get new?

Have you checked your vehicle registration and inspection sticker lately? Up-to-date? 

Once a week or so, when you’re ready to run the dishwasher, add your sink strainers and run them through to keep them clean and sanitary.

You use a toilet brush to clean the toilet…but what cleans the toilet brush?  Try this…add a bit of Pine-Sol in the bottom of the brush container.

You should regularly clean your pet's water & food dishes. Doesn't take much for bacteria to grow.

Do you throw away scissors when they don’t cut well anymore?  You don’t need to.  Rip several pieces of aluminum foil the size of the scissor blades and cut through the pile multiple times.  You’ll find your scissors will cut well again!  

Anxious for spring?  According to The Farmer’s Almanac this is a good time to begin tomato plants inside.  If you begin them from Mar 7th -22nd, they’ll be perfect to transplant outside between May 10th and May 31st.

Check over your house and yard to evaluate any wind, snow etc. damage. May need to put a claim into your insurance agency or start booking contractors. 

Not sure when you would have a potato peeler available and not a Phillips head screw driver but…it’s a fun piece of knowledge to have just in case. The end of a potato peeler will often work on a Phillips head screw when there is no Phillips head screwdriver available!

A lot of ice melts burn dogs & cats paws, even some of the "pet friendly" can too, so be aware and also, remember antifreeze is sweet tasting to them but can make them very sick - or worse, could be fatal.

PLEASE! Limit the time your pets are outside and when they are-watch them! They get disoriented in the snow, and their paws easily freeze leaving them painful to walk where your pet is stuck and can't get back to the house. 

Ok, we've had one pretty good snowstorm, how did that cheap plastic shovel hold up? Before the next storm why not get yourself a decent shovel and car snowbrush! 

Vacuum out your furnace vents, intake and outake, they accumulate a lot of dust. 

Can't stress this enough-clear away snow from your furnace vent pipes! Blowing snow can get packed inside or drifts can block the open pipe, causing potential for the furnace to quit.

If you must drive during a storm or in any bad weather, prepare yourself, have a blanket, water, snacks, extra clothing, gloves, hat, etc. in your car. Also, if you go off the road the best thing is to stay with the vehicle (unless there's danger of gas leak or fire). If you're in the car and stuck in snow check the exhaust pipe to make sure it's not clogged with snow if you run the car to stay warm.

Make sure your car windshield fluid is filled-get one for ice!

Get some snow lately? Realize you weren't ready afterall? Get a new snow brush, shovel, fill your windshield washer with one for cold temperatures, put blankets in your car, sand or cat litter. Be Prepared you've heard it  million times!

Mold & Mildew clean up recipe Jim spoke about on the WHAM Home Repair Clinic

Start the New Year out by volunteering! So many various organizations need help.

Don't burn wrapping paper in the fireplace because it can contain metallic materials that could be hazardous to breathe in.

Once a week, pour 1/4 cup baking soda down each of your kitchen drains, followed by 1/2 cup vinegar. Let this sit in the drain for 20 minutes or more. Flush the drains with the boiling water.

Keep fire extinguishers in easy to reach places throughout your home.

Test your garage door opener to ensure that it reverses when it hits an obstruction or when its sensor beam is interrupted.

You have reversed the rotation of your ceiling fans, haven’t you?

Cut a lemon ­in half, sprinkle it with baking soda, and scrub the countertop to make it sparkle and the whole kitchen will smell nice too! (You could always put the other half in the garbage disposal to keep that smelling nice.)

Have your dryer vents cleaned, incredible how much lint collects.

Never connect more than three strings of Christmas lights together.

If you own a front-loading washing machine, leave the machine open to dry after each load and wipe down the inside of the machine and the seal every couple of loads.

Cover the bottom of your oven with aluminum foil when you're baking something that may overflow.

Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater.

Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.

Keep a cold-weather kit in your trunk. It should include a blanket or sleeping bag, gloves, bottled water, folding shovel, first aid kit, flashlight and cell phone charger.

Your water may be good clean water, but all water has sediment in it.  Over time the sediment will settle at the bottom of your water heater which can eventually cause expensive problems.  You should flush and clean your water heater annually.

Make sure your furniture isn't blocking your home’s heating vents.

Every year on April 1, DFES (Department of Fire and Emergency Services) promotes the day as a reminder to regularly change smoke alarm batteries.  Even if you did it then but you didn’t do it this past weekend with daylight savings time (another reminder time) check them now.  Check that the batteries are good, and the smoke alarm is working.

Before winter hits, take a moment to save the numbers for your auto club, insurance agent and towing service into your cell phone.  

Only a few weeks till Thanksgiving, maybe need to make an appointment to get your carpets cleaned, air ducts, gutters, etc.!

Do you own a pressure washer?  Don’t forget that it needs to be ‘winterized’.  Disconnect the hoses and spray in a pump antifreeze so it won’t freeze and be damaged over the winter.

Now is a good time to top off/add freeze resistant windshield wiper fluid.

With Halloween coming and trick or treating, have your porches, steps sidewalks & driveways clear of debris and try to have them well-lit so the little kids can see their way around.

A general rule of thumb is that oil-based paint can be applied when the temperatures are between 40°- 90° F and latex between 50°- 85° F.  Be sure to check the instructions on the paint you’ll be using for specific instructions on application temperatures.

Before winter hits full force, make sure your attic and walls are properly insulated.  If you find the insulation is inadequate add insulation to prevent cold air from seeping into your home.

Check your snowblower for oil, gas, blades in good shape(?)-And might want to buy a new snow shovel!

Leaves are starting to turn colors-which are beautiful,, however, then they fall, and you have to clean them up. Do you have a new, solid rake or that one from years ago that's broken? How about a leaf blower, not as much exercise but works well! Be ready!

Keeping your vehicle’s glove compartment organized is a good policy.  Ready access to your current car registration and proof of insurance helps eliminate anxiety if you ever get pulled over!  While you’re organizing make sure that all your paperwork is current.

Regularly clean out bird feeders, scrape old wet seed, let air out, refill.

Hummingbirds have left our area, take down the feeders and clean thoroughly in soapy water, no bleach or other chemicals, save for next spring!

Soak paper towels in vinegar and apply them to areas in your sink or bath where there are lime-deposit hard-water stains. Let them sit for a few minutes and then wipe the stains away.

Now is a good time to go through your closet, pull out those unwanted/un-needed clothes and donate them! 

Fall is the time of year to remove dead or diseased limbs.  Cut back excessive growth and trim to the desired shape.

Purchase Gain beads and add a small amount into a new spray bottle and fill with warm water.  Let this sit for about ten minutes (shake it up to help mix).  Use as an air freshener or spray on carpets, couches, pet beds etc.  The scent last much longer than most spray air fresheners!

Start the fall with a complete check up of your furnace! If you need a company, may we recommend Crossfield Heating 585-872-4420.

We haven’t tested this tip but it sounds like a real winner if it works!!  Apparently you can “lift” rust right off your patio furniture by dabbing some ketchup on it and rubbing it away with a clean cloth.  Not so sure about this but we'd love to hear if anyone tries it!

Ladders look simple and harmless, but, according to OSHA, falls from ladders are among the leading causes of work-related injury and death.  When using a ladder use common sense and be safe!

A thermos, lunchbox, or even a travel mug that is beginning to smell unpleasant can be cleaned by pouring 1/4 cup salt into it and close it up for the night. In the morning, rinse and wipe clean, this should make it smell fresh again.

Here is a homemade tip that claims to keep many types of ‘critters’ away including mice, rats, snakes and others.  Cut “V” shapes towards the top of plastic containers, about ¼ from the top, (you can leave the “V” shaped flap attached). Fill the containers with water up to the cuts. Put four to six mothballs in each container. The mothballs last a long time but every now and then check the containers and add more water. Apparently, pests do not like the aroma and stay away.  It’s worth a try, inside or out!

It's coming, fall and winter. Trees take a beating. Look yours over for weak branches, diseased trees, if you're not sure - get a tree specialist involved.

Leaving an open box of baking soda inside any cupboard, linen closet, camper cabinet or anywhere that doesn’t get used regularly will keep the contents fresh and odor free.

A squeegee run across a carpet will loosen and pull up a lot of pet hair.  The best part of this is that kids love doing this!  You get the squeegee the kids do the work...can't beat that!

Remember to check your dryer vents, they get clogged with lint and critters might have made a nest. Also, always clean the dryer filter after each load, then occasionally wash the filter, it's such a fine screen a toothbrush works well clearing the dirt.

Air vents get very dirty and dusty over time. That dust can easily make it back into the room and what doesn’t can block the air from getting out.  If you haven’t cleaned the air vents lately it’s probably time to!

Pick up the small pieces of broken glass with a slice of bread.  Seriously!  No matter how careful you are you can’t always pick it all up…but the sliced bread can!

Your dog doesn’t mind slobbery dirty toys but if you would feel better cleaning them once in a while you can toss them into the washer with one tablespoon of baking soda for a thorough cleaning.

So with this rain we are getting, have any leaks in your house? Did your gutters clog? Give us a call if you have questions or need some advice, 585-589-5650

Most homeowners have this product in their garage at the ready but for those that don’t you may want to purchase some…Clay kitty litter... it works to absorb oil quickly. In the event of an oil stain on the garage floor simply pour some kitty litter over the top of the stain and let it sit for a day or two and then clean it up...kitty litter and stain!

 

Buy an extra dish wand and fill it with half vinegar and half dish soap.  Now you have an easy to grab cleaning tool for scrubbing the bathroom (and other areas).  And the best part is you can replace the sponge end as needed.

It doesn’t hurt to repeat this tip.  Never leave pets in a parked car in summer, even with windows partially open. The temperature inside a parked car rises very quickly and can kill a pet in less than 10 minutes!

Seems like everything is smelling musty with this rain and humidity. Run fans, A/C anything to circulate the air.

Is everyone’s house ‘damp’ with this crazy humidity this summer?  Charcoal briquettes can help remove humidity.  Buy a cheap bag of charcoal, fill a basket and set it in the room (or rooms) that feel humid. Any type will work but the best type is coconut shell charcoal which has a high absorption power.

Scuff marks on linoleum can usually be removed by rubbing the spot with white toothpaste and a dry cloth.

Take the time to remove all the window screens on your house and gently scrub them with hot soapy water.  (And of course, you should wash the windows while the screens are off!)

Before that white stuff comes down have your trees checked for broken branches, disease etc. to avoid damage in the middle of freezing weather.

For stinky microwaves, put two tablespoons of vanilla in a glass bowl, heat for 30 seconds, then let it sit inside the microwave for a few hours.

The weather will be cooling off before we know it.  Take the time now while it’s still hot/warm to power wash your home…why now while it’s hot/warm out? Because you know you’ll get soaking wet!

Now is the time to check over your lawn mower, grills, trimmers, even your snowblower, etc. Do you need to order parts? Arrange to have them serviced?

August is a good time to start seeds for fall crops including spinach, lettuce and greens. 

In the old days…instead of throwing away a stained article, such as a white tablecloth, they added four or five black tea bags to a bucket of hot water and let them steep for 10 minutes or so. Then they would remove the tea bags, add the cloth (swish it around so it absorbs the water), and let it sit until it became a beautiful antique creamy brown.  Lessons from the past!

Spend a few minutes and wipe off the sill over doors, you may be surprised at how much dust collects up there!

Rid the musty smell from a washing machine by running it on the hottest cycle with the tub empty except for a cup of baking soda in the drum and distilled white vinegar in the detergent dispenser.

Take time to enjoy what's left of summer! Don't work so much!

Remove a stripped screw by laying a rubber band over the stripped screw’s head to give your drill (or screwdriver) enough traction to remove it.

Replace the cabin air filter in your vehicle if you haven’t done so in a while (or ever)!

Check your A/C unit vents to make sure it isn't clogged up with debris.

Dom Genova owner of Genesee Valley Motors has a tip for us! Check out safercar.gov for recalls on your vehicle.

While it may seem like a good idea to shut all of the windows when it is hot out, you need to let air circulate through your home or the humidity levels will rise. When the air is stagnant the humidity in the house will actually feel worse because there is no release of the air. 

Look for visible condensation on cooler surfaces like windows, mirrors, pipes, and in your basement. If you do find it, feel and check the surrounding area to ensure the moisture is not spreading to walls and nearby surfaces.

Do you know that you can listen to the Home Repair Clinic on podcasts?  On your 'smart' device, download-if you haven't already done so, the IHeart app, search for  Home Repair Clinic! There ya go!

Make sure that your tires are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires are subject to excessive friction, which causes heat. When conditions are already hot, under-inflated tires are even more likely to fail. But remember air expands with heat so don’t over-inflated tires in hot weather driving.

Keep in mind to clean vents, intake & out-take. Also your dryer filter should be washed regularly-(use an old toothbrush to clean out the screening), it gets clogged up even if you take off the lint after each use.

To reduce humidity in home, temporarily place house plants outside or concentrate them in one room. Plants release moisture vapor to the air. When you have lots of plants their role in home humidity levels can be significant. Also make sure not to overwater them.

Energy Star states that ideal indoor humidity levels are between 30 and 50%.  Keeping the humidity levels in that range help reduce dust mites and allergens.  And bonus: a better night’s sleep because humidity levels in that range are healthier on your mucous membranes!

It is said that the scent of peppermint and cloves are natural repellents for mice.  Soak a piece of rag or cotton balls with clove and peppermint oils and place them where you suspect mice are getting in.

This is a general tip,, be aware of your surroundings; walking to & from a store, while getting gas-lock your car, simple everyday tasks when out in public.

Too short to clean the ceiling fans? No excuse! Attach a dryer sheet to a paint roller and you can clean the fans very easily! Don't forget the bathroom vent fans while you have your new cleaning tool with you!  

Cleaning your washing machine sounds redundant but the truth is dirt and grime can get (and stay) in the seals and even in the drum. You might find new stains on clothes that you've washed and wonder where they came from...likely the washer itself. Occasionally clean the washer seals and drum with a mixture of 3/4 cup chlorine bleach and a gallon of warm water. Wipe the areas with the solution and let it sit for about 5 minutes and then wipe dry with a clean cloth and leave it open to air dry.  Stop avoiding the baseboards when you clean! Eventually the build up really shows, use a damp cloth and wipe them down every now and then. 

Maybe this doesn't cross your mind, but your pet food and water dishes should be washed frequently, whether they're indoor or outdoor.

Windshield covers protect the dashboard against ultraviolet rays and help keep the cabin cooler.  It’s a wise purchase for our beautiful sunny summer we’re having!

When do you replace hoses for your washer, dehumidifier, dishwasher, ice maker, and refrigerator? Not until/unless they leak (like most of us)? The recommended maintenance is to replace these hoses once every 3-5 years, but even if you don't do that it is important to at least regularly check for any signs of leaking.

Along with not leaving pets or children alone in cars during any weather, really, but in this heat, the metal car seat buckles can get burning hot.

For a special treat make and freeze some chicken or beef broth ice cubes for your best friend.  And yes, we mean your dog.

The next few days promise to be above comfortable temperatures.  Stay hydrated!  And please remember:  Never leave a child unattended in a pool or spa or near water of any kind, not even for 1 second!

Get ahead of the game this year: Stock up on summer essentials especially sun block, aloe and insect repellent. It doesn't hurt to have an extra supply, one at home and one in the car!

You can keep your AC running smoothly and your energy expense down by changing out your air filters often.  Experts advise changing them once a month when using your unit on a daily basis.

When was the last time you checked the inspection sticker on your vehicle?  Those dates sneak up on us fast!  If it's been a while and you don't remember when it's due you better take a peak!

Maintaining your home's exterior means routinely cleaning it.  The best way to do that is with a pressure washer.  If it's been a year or two you might want to consider pressure washing it again, you'll be surprised how quickly the dirt builds up.

Worn wipers leave streaks across the windshield and can affect your vision while driving, if this is happening to you it's time to change the wipers!

Gutters should be cleaned twice a year.  The best plan is to clean them once in the late fall after all of the leaves have fallen and once in the late spring after seeds and blossoms are done blowing off.  If you haven't cleaned them this spring get to it!!

Please please please! Don't put pets in your car and leave them even for a quick run into the bank, store, or whatever excuse you use.

Don't neglect your roof.  Checking your roof regularly allows you to find a small problem before it becomes a large, leaky one.

Place a big rubber band around a paint can to wipe your brush on and save it from dripping and filling the can edges.

Pool filters need to be cleaned out a few times a day - they get clogged up with cottonwood very quickly.

All these white floating things -cottonwood & dandelions seeds- all over, Check your fans, air conditioners, mower engines, etc, anything with intake fans, clean them out. They easily clog and slow down or burn out.

You know that struggle trying to add a new key to a key chain?  Use a staple remover to pull the rings apart and save yourself the frustration!

Do you have a spot with an excess of cords?  Label those little bread clips and clip over the cord so you can identify which cord is which.

It's bug season...check your window screens for holes and tears. 

If you have an attic fan, make sure it's working properly before the heat of summer arrives.

Put this to memory  - PASS - (and teach everyone in your home) in the event that you ever need to use your fire extinguisher:

Pull the fire extinguisher's safety pin.

Aim the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire.

Squeeze the extinguisher's handle.

Sweep the extinguisher's nozzle in a side-to-side motion until the flames are out.

Make your ice coffee even better (and stronger) by freezing coffee in the ice cube trays and use instead of ice.

It's getting warmer, don't leave your pet in the car. It gets too hot too soon!

Taking your 'best friend' with you on a long walk or hike?  Remember dogs get much thirstier than we do when they get hot.  Other than panting they really have no way to cool themselves down.  Make sure you allow plenty of breaks for shade and water stops.

Check the ground around the foundation of your home and re-grade it if necessary. 

Springtime! Sun & warm (hopefully!). Allergies? Try getting a good quality home air purifier, run it in your bedroom so you can get a good night's sleep! Indoor Air Professionals is a great company to contact! 585-427-8020.

Mosquito bites can ruin a good outdoor event.  If the itching gets unbearable it's best to use a cortisone cream.  A Cortisone (or steroid) cream work by constricting the blood vessels and reducing the inflammation that's at the root of the itchiness.  Keep a tube in your outdoor bag so you have it when you really need it!

Vacuum out air registers to remove dust and debris.

Use salt for your margarita and throw some over those dandelions growing in your yard!

Vacuum the lint from the hose of your clothes dryer.

Look over your gas grill - spiders, chipmunks, etc. could have built a nest which could block it from functioning and cause a fire or an explosion.

Would you like to plant some herbs this year?  Two of the most popular herbs are Parsley and Basil.  Parsley can withstand a hard frost.  That won't happen again will it??  If you want to plant basil wait until the threat of a frost is completely gone.  But be sure to plant basil...it is rich in vitamin K, A, potassium, and calcium!

Found this tip but haven't tried it yet.  What a great trick if it works!! 'You can sprinkle a thick layer of baking soda around paving stones to kill plant life between the gaps'.

Do you know if your home has radon? Might want to have it tested.

Use a starter fertilizer whenever you plant anything. Starter fertilizers can provide a tremendous boost to new plantings!

Check your vehicles' registration & inspection stickers!

Don't get too anxious to get that garden started!  If the soil is too wet and you begin planting you could be compacting the soil too much.  Wait until it's dry.  If you grab a handful of soil and can squeeze it into a 'blob' it's still too wet!

Don't rush...LATE spring and summer are classic exterior painting months. Precipitation is low and temperatures are warm which helps the paint cure at a proper rate.

Keep up on your sidewalk/concrete maintenance this spring.  Fill cracks with a concrete crack filler or silicone caulk. When weather permits, power-wash and then seal the concrete. 

Most people put a collar with a leash on their dog. But a harness makes so much more sense, no chance of the dog pulling out of the collar, much less pull on their neck. There are strap type and cloth ones-which would be comfortable!

While you can choose any finish to paint an exterior door, glossy paints are typically preferred because they stand out and tend to stand up to nicks and scrapes better than flat or eggshell paint.  Another tip is to remember that the type of primer you use needs to match the type of paint you use (latex or oil-based).

We definitely love and welcome warmer weather! However, keep in mind not to take your pet in your car and then go into a store, leaving them in the car.  Try a short time yourself sitting in a closed or slightly opened windows vehicle without it running. See how quickly it gets too warm, don't do that to your pet!

Determined not to spend all spring and summer cleaning and recleaning your windows?  Try this:  Clean windows with 1 drop of blue Dawn dish soap mixed with warm water then apply Rain-X Original, wipe dry and your windows (auto and home) should stay cleaner much longer! 

Stumped about what to do with that stump in your yard?  Drill some holes about six or eight inches deep, fill with dirt and plant flowers to create a beautiful flower bed incorporating your previously unsightly stump!

You're getting a 'little' up there in age, may need to re-think some things around the house. If you're planning on some remodeling did you know? You can change the height of your kitchen counters? Lower to possibly get in close with a wheelchair, etc. Bathroom remodel? How about a walk-in shower? Easier if you have problems with your knees or legs so you're not trying to get over a tub or ledge.

Who doesn't hate cleaning blinds?!  Mix equal parts vinegar and water.  Take an old (clean) sock and put it over your hand.  Now dip your fingers/hand in the mixture and slide the sock along the blinds.  Both sides at once!  It doesn't get any better than that!

Winter damage or potholes in your gravel driveway?  Widen the pothole a bit and then fill in the hole with layers of gravel.  Compact each layer as you go.

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MOVE! Only kidding, somewhat. We have to start getting some better weather, problem is it's not good in most of the country!

So in the meantime, do interior maintenance, have you had your duct work cleaned? Need painting? A nice fresh coat of paint makes all the difference in brightening your mood and the room! How about some new light fixtures? Look around at what you can do to spruce up the interior so you'll be ready to move to outdoor work!

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We received an email from a WHAM HRC listener and thought it was worth passing along:  
"I bought a Moen strainer from (a big box store); took it home; installed it..the strainer leaked.  I went through 4 Moen strainers from (the big box store). Frustrated, I took the last strainer down to Moen depot nearby; picked up a new one; installed it into the sink and the leaking stopped. I measured both strainers. The strainer from (the big box store) was 1/16 of an inch smaller than the Moen depot strainer. The moral of the story-----GO WITH THE ORIGINAL!!!!!!"

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We will have nice weather--eventually,,,(?) Time to clean up your yard, pick up all the branches, rake the yard to smooth it out, get some topsoil to fill in dips and holes, plant grass seed so it'll be ready to grow! Of course, then you'll have to mow!!

Give your plants, trees, and shrubs an extra boost of nutrients with a homemade egg shell powder!  Make yourself a big breakfast (not actually required!) and put the egg shells in the blender then sprinkle the powder around your plants!

If you are repainting a, door for example, you need to use the same type of paint as what is on it now.  You don't know or can't remember what type of paint you used years ago?  Determine what finish exists by rubbing it with a denatured alcohol soaked clean rag. If paint comes off, it is latex. If not, it is oil.

Take a thorough walk around your house, look at the grading, is the dirt sinking toward the house? That will cause water to flow into your basement, get some topsoil (or hire it done) and fill in to create a positive grade away from the foundation.

Pet smells in your furniture?  Buy an extra box of baking soda this week and sprinkle it on the furniture (I know this just feels wrong but do it anyway).  Come back in a half hour or so and vacume the furniture.  Ah, much better!

The kids have the glitter out again...it will be everywhere but on their project...again.  Clean the scattered (spilled) glitter with a piece of tape or a roller brush.  

Did you know that radishes, peas, lettuce, broccoli, and cauliflower survive frosty weather?  If you're anxious to get started and the ground can be worked go ahead and get these planted! 

Did you know you can put your sponge in the dishwasher to get it nice and clean again?  A sponge picks up a lot of bacteria, try popping it in the dishwasher every few days and keeping it bacteria free!

We've said it before and we'll say it again!  Is it time to replace the filter for your HVAC?  Check the recommendations for your furnace but generally it should be changed every four to six wee

The winter was a cold one!  Now is a good time to examine the exterior of the chimney for signs of damage.  Have the flue cleaned and inspected by a certified chimney sweep.

Out of window cleaner?  Mix rubbing alcohol and water (50/50) to make a homemade cleaner that really shines!

Afraid to use your oven's self cleaning option?  Many people are!  If you prefer, try this:  Remove the wire oven racks and set them aside.  Make a paste with baking soda and water.  Use an old sponge with an abrasive pad to rub the baking soda paste over the sides and bottom of the oven.  You can either leave it overnight or sprinkle vinegar on it and when the fizzing stops wipe it clean with a cloth.

It's been noted that the item in a hotel room that has the highest germ level is the t.v. remote control.  Apparently the remote rarely, if ever, gets cleaned but is used by most guests.  Keep a pack of baby wipes in your suitcase and wipe the remote control down before you use it!

Is the mouse outsmarting you? Mice scurry around the perimeter of rooms close to the walls where their whiskers help them navigate. Place mouse traps along walls where the mice travel.  Face the bait and trigger end of the mouse trap so it is facing the wall.

The easy way to clean an artifical house plant: Give the leaves a quick wipe with a baby wipe, it will remove dust and get that brilliant sheen back!

A good post-winter maintenance tip is to check for loose or leaky gutters.  Improper drainage can lead to water in the basement or crawl space.  Make sure downspouts drain away from the foundation and are clear and free of debris.

Stain on your vinyl siding?  Most household cleaners are safe to use (Simple Green, Armour All, etc.) but be sure to spot check any general or stain cleaner before using it.  After cleaning be sure to rinse thoroughly with water. Do not use cleaners containing undiluted chlorine bleach as it can affect the surface of the siding.

Now's the time to get your pet to the vet for a check up, test for heartworm & get on preventatives.

Spring = Dirty Sneakers
Sprinkle inside of sneakers with baking soda and let them sit for hours (overnight is perfect) then brush all loose dirt and mud off, wash with a load of towels using the cold water setting and liquid detergent.  Allow to air dry.

Rusty tools?  For smaller tools put them in a container filled with distilled white vinegar and let them soak overnight.  Scrub with a brush.  When the rust is off, rinse, dry, and coat them with a spray of WD-40.  (For added strength you can add a cup of salt per gallon of vinegar.)

Tired of cleaning spots off the faucet?  Clean it as usual and dry it.  Now rub some wax paper over it.  The wax paper leaves a residue you can't see and it will keep water spots from showing.

Washing your vehicle before winter is over might seem counter-productive since it’s just going to get dirty again BUT road salt, snow, and moisture can cause rust on a car, and once rust starts it’s hard to stop. Pick a day when the temperatures are moderate (high 30’s or low 40’s) and get to the car wash!

Kids making slime is a big thing these days.  So is dried slime in the carpet that they forgot to tell you about.  Pour straight white vinegar on the hardened slime and let it sit for a few minutes until it has softened.  It will then scoop off easily with a knife.  (Of course you should always do a spot test first to make sure it doesn't harm your carpet...worse than the slime!)

When someone tracks mud into the carpet don't be too quick to clean it up.  Let it dry first.  This might seem counterintuitive but the mud will be much easier to remove dry and you want to avoid rubbing the mud deeper into your carpets fibers.

Take time for yourself! The best way to get things done is if you're refreshed and ready to go! During your busy hectic day take a few minutes to regroup, breathe, even if you have to hide in a closet!

Now that the snow is off the roof and spring is on its way it's a good time to examine roof shingles to see if any were lost or damaged during the winter.

Is there a musty scent or odor coming from your furniture?  Eliminate smells from chairs, couches, mattresses and even pet beds by sprinkling surfaces with baking soda, let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum it up. 

It's always a good idea (especially in the winter) to be sure you refill prescription medications in advance so you don't run out and have to worry about getting them filled at the last minute.  You never know what the next day will bring.  Be prepared!

Clean or change your furnace filter. Dirty filters can dramatically reduce the heat production ability of a furnace.

Out of laundry detergent?  You can use dishwashing liquid for laundry (Dawn brand is excellent for this) but because it produces a lot of bubbles you don’t have to use very much, just use about an 1/8 cup and add to your washing machine just like you would regular detergent.

Always clear your vehicle of snow before heading out. You will see better and other drivers will see you!

A dog safety tip from the ASPCA:
Massaging petroleum jelly or other paw protectants into paw pads before going outside can help protect from salt and chemical agents. 

Check the air pressure in your tires.  Cold weather causes the pressure to lower.

Don't forget that you can run your ceiling fan on low with the paddles reversed (clockwise when looking up) to circulate warm air during these cold days!

Coat a toilet paper roll in peanut butter, roll it in birdseed, and you have a classic bird feeder.

Onion Quick Fix: Don't peel the whole onion when you only want one slice. Slice through the middle of the onion, cut a slice, put the two parts back together wrap and refrigerate.

Light therapy boxes can offer some treatment for seasonal affective disorder. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs each year during fall and winter. Eat foods that are high in Vitamin D, maintain hobbies, and get outside and try to get some sun!

 When the rain freezes on the road, that's black ice. It's there on the road, but you can't see it. You may not see the danger until you are in it. Reduce your speed and proceed with caution!

 To prevent frostbite: Dress in loose, light, comfortable layers, Protect your feet and toes, Protect your head,
Protect your hands, Make sure snow cannot get inside of your boots or clothing, Keep yourself hydrated!

Dress for the cold! Use many thin,layers rather than a few thick layers. It will insulate better and allow you to remove layers if the temperature climbs.

Cold Feet?- Try wool socks! Stay Warm!

Wool is:
*A great insulator
*Can absorb moisture
*Dries more quickly
*Odor Resistant

  When you lift snow,pick up small amounts and lift with your legs, not your back, Do not toss snow over your shoulder or to the side.

Clean your humidifiers regularly during the heating season. 

Apply salt to your sidewalks and driveway before it snows. This will help keep them from icing over when the snow or ice hits the treated areas.

Every wonder how to get rid of rust spots on floors, patios or porches?  The acid in lemon juice will dissolve rust. Cut the lemon in half, squeeze the juice onto the stain and let it soak in for about 10 minutes.  If the stains have been there for a long time you might have to scrub with a hard bristle brush.  Rinse off the lemon juice and rust with clean water.

This tip is for a slow-moving drain not a fully clogged drain.  Pour a cup of baking soda into the drain then heat up a cup of vinegar and pour it on top of the baking soda. Wait 10 minutes.  Pour a pot of boiling water down the drain.  This works wonders!

Cold Weather Tip: Warm air rises to the ceiling. Run your ceiling fan on its lowest setting in a clockwise direction. to push the warm air back down to where you can feel it. Stay warm!

Heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel are potential sources of carbon monoxide.  Make sure your home has a carbon monoxide alarm!

It's baking season...keep the chocolate chips and blueberries from dropping to the bottom of the muffins by coating them with a spoonful of flour before adding to the batter. This helps the add-in to adhere to the batter and prevents them from sinking. If you're using frozen blueberries the flour also minimizes how much the berries bleed into the batter.

No one wants to admit when they see mildew or mold in their bathroom shower but it can easily happen.  Put hydrogen peroxide in a trigger-spray bottle, spray it on and let it sit for about 5 minutes.  It will kill the fungus and clean off easily.

To clean your coffee grinder: Put a 1/4 cup of rice in your coffee grinder and grind for about a minute, the oils should cling to the rice, leaving behind just a dusting of rice flour. Dump out the flour and wipe with a damp cloth.

Check your home’s exterior doors for cold air leaks. Do this from inside the house. Move a lit candle around the door frames and if the flame blows toward you there is a draft.  Seal with foam or felt weatherstripping inside the door frame. 

Has your faucet started dripping and you can't get it fixed immediately but the sound of the dripping is making you crazy?  You can stop the sound of dripping water by tying a long string around the end of the faucet. The water will drip on the string and run down silently.

Winter Weather Tip: Check insulation around exterior pipes that are exposed to freezing weather to be sure that water cannot seep under the insulation.

No one wants to admit when they see mildew or mold in their bathroom shower but it can easily happen.  Put hydrogen peroxide in a trigger-spray bottle, spray it on and let it sit for about 5 minutes.  It will kill the fungus and clean off easily.

Having all the tools and cleaning products you need in a caddy or bucket saves you a ton of time walking back and forth to the cabinet or under the sink. 

Use a leaf blower to remove leaves along foundations. Removing leaves helps eliminate hiding places for rodents to get into your home. Allow some leaves to remain under shrubs to provide winter cover for beneficial insects.

Are you tired of your salad greens 'expiring' before you've had a chance to use them up?  After washing and drying the greens lay them out on paper towels and then roll it up and place it in a plastic bag.  Press out as much air as possible and seal the top, and of course refrigerate.  The paper towels absorb moisture and keeps the greens from wilting, getting 'slimy', and 'expiring' as quickly.

When the power window won't go down because it's frozen shut DO NOT keep pushing the button.  If you keep trying to roll the window down you can damage the window motor which can be an expensive repair.  Some say you can slide a credit card between the window and strip to help break the ice up but the best thing to do is just wait until the vehicle warms up!

Fill up when your gas tank is half-full .The more gas you have in your tank the less air there is and gasoline evaporates rapidly.
Keeping half a tank is also good in case of emergency.

Washing hands with soap and water is the best way to reduce the number of microbes on them in most situations according to the cdc. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Pull back attic insulation to find and seal cutouts in drywall for electrical fixtures, pipes, fans and outlets.  Also check wiring, chimneys, flues, vent stacks and ducts, and seal them on the inside. Use caulk to fill smaller gaps and pressurized expanding foam for bigger openings.

The Amercian flag should be displayed on all days but especially on: New Year's Day, January 1; Inauguration Day, January 20; Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday, the third Monday in January; Lincoln's Birthday, February 12; Washington's Birthday, third Monday in February; National Vietnam War Veterans Day, March 29, Easter Sunday (variable); Mother's Day, second Sunday in May; Armed Forces Day, third Saturday in May; Memorial Day (half-staff until noon), the last Monday in May; Flag Day, June 14; Father's Day, third Sunday in June; Independence Day, July 4; National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day, July 27; Labor Day, first Monday in September; Constitution Day, September 17; Columbus Day, second Monday in October; Navy Day, October 27; Veterans Day, November 11; Thanksgiving Day, fourth Thursday in November; Christmas Day, December 25; and such other days as may be proclaimed by the President of the United States; the birthdays of States (date of admission); and on State holidays.

Old ice absorbs food odors, clean and sanitize your icemaker or cube trays twice per year .Wash the bin and ice maker with vinegar, or put the bin in the dishwasher if your manual says it’s safe to do so. Wipe the ice maker with a dry rag to remove moisture.

Hot water heaters typically are set at 140 degrees. Lower the temperature on yours to 120 for fuel savings.  You’ll reduce the chance of accidental burns, and the water still will be plenty hot for bathing, washing clothes and doing dishes.

Heated or cooled air flies up the chimney when you leave the fireplace damper open. Make it a habit to shut the flue after the fireplace has cooled.

Use Pool Noodles cut in half to keep your boots upright and dry.

When you are sure you won't be using your outside hose anymore drain and store it for the winter.  Install insulating covers on all exterior spigots.

Water-based exterior paint requires certain conditions to cure properly, or you’ll be repainting your house sooner than you planned.  “It should be at least 50° F when applying the paint and shouldn’t drop below 32° F at night for several days after,” says Rico DePaz, the paint pro at Consumer Reports. 

We went in search of auto tips today and this is what we found:
The conventional wisdom that you should idle your car up to operating temperature comes from the days of carburetors, which needed several minutes of idling to get to an operating temperature where they'd run smoothly. With fuel-injected engines, the ECU can adjust itself to idle perfectly even in sub-zero weather. 
But what about being toasty warm?
Start it up, make sure all your windows are clear of ice/snow/fog, and just drive, the engine will warm up faster, and therefore you'll get nice warm heat coming out of the vents sooner.

How often should you water Succulents? Rather than giving small amounts of water frequently, give them a good soaking. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again.

Wish you could be more productive?  Prioritize!  There are usually only one or two things that absolutely must get done, do those things first.  You'll get the most important things done which is a win!  And it will usually motivate you to keep going!  Win-Win!!

Check your roof for problems before cold weather hits! Check for loose shingles and make any necessary repairs now. Don’t forget to check your gutters while you’re on the roof. 

By replacing summer sheers with winter drapes, you can cozy up and actually save on your heating bill. Winter drapes have a liner that repels cold air and temperature from the glass window panes.

​Tips to transition mentally into the winter season:
Take your vitamins. 
Stay hydrated. ...
Get outside and stay active.

As you are preparing for winter don't forget to empty soil from pots and planters. Dirt left in clay pots will freeze and cause the pots to crack if left outside.

As the temperatures get cooler rodents will try to find shelter inside and homeowners often turn to rat and mouse poisons.  Please remember these products are highly toxic to pets and, if ingested, the results could be fatal.  Use with extreme caution and put them in places inaccessible to your pets.

Anti-freeze is known to taste sweet to cats and dogs. Make sure to check your car for leaks and make sure all bottles are stored far away from your pets.

Quick Tip for cleaning rust from Chrome. Scrunch up a piece of tin foil and dip into cold water. Rub gently to remove rust. Dry with a towel.

Now that it's getting closer to winter take the time to inspect external doors and garage doors.  If they don't seal tightly install weather-stripping or even door thresholds if needed.

Excellent Tips From the National Fire Protection Association:
*Draw a map of your home with all members of your household, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit.
*Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out.
*Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
*Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
*Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.  Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building.

Inspect your driveway for cracks. Clean out and repair any damage with driveway filler, then coat with a commercial sealer. Sealing the driveway now will help extend the life of the asphalt through the winter and beyond. 

Work Smarter, not harder when raking leaves. Rake your leaves into small piles onto a tarp or a piece of plastic, then drag that pile to your main pile or compost. Enjoy the fall weather by raking leaves!

While the temperatures are still decent take the time to caulk around windows and door frames to prevent heat from escaping when the temperatures are not so decent!

October is Fire Safety Month make sure everyone in your home knows how to use a fire extinguisher.
Should you ever need to use it, just remember the acronym PASS: 
Pull the pin to release the handle; 
Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire; 
Squeeze the trigger;
Sweep the discharge stream at the base of the fire. 

Before you turn your heat on for the season take a quick walk through each room and make sure the heating vents aren't blocked by anything.

Keep a cardboard box in your laundry room for clothes that need to go to the thrift store. When sorting the laundry toss in the clothes kids have outgrown, or you have gotten tired of. When it's full, put the box in the car and drop it off at a local shelter or thrift store.

We can't say it enough.  Clean Your Gutters!  Leaves cause clogged gutters which then can form ice dams in the colder months.  Drainage becomes a problem and the next thing you know you have leaks that can cost you a great deal of money.  Clean Your Gutters!

You'll be putting your heating system to the test before long.  Now is the perfect time to schedule a heating system check up. 

Soon we'll really begin to notice the shorter days and therefore less daylight.  Now would be a good time to install some lighting along your walkway.  Solar push in lights are fairly inexpensive and can be very helpful when you return home on those dark evenings.

Even in nice Hotels, TV remotes tend to be highly contaminated. Slip the remote into a ziploc bag to keep the germs away. The buttons and signal will still work.

This summer like weather won't last forever.  Now is the perfect time to have your chimneys and flues inspected (and cleaned if necessary).

To ensure that your refrigerator is doing its job, it's important to keep its temperature at 40 °F or below; the freezer should be at 0 °F. 

We all know we're supposed to keep the lawn mower deck high in the summer but come fall drop it down as low as it’ll go without scalping the turf. Short grass gives leaves less to get caught on and the mower will chew up any leaves that have already fallen.

It's the season for campfires. In September it gets darker earlier, which is great for gathering around the campfire for some stories.

Clean an empty wipes container (baby or cleaning product) and then use it to store your empty plastic grocery bags.  If you are really crafty you can cover the container with contact paper and line the bags up end to end so they actually feed through the slots!  

Clean your gutters at least once a year and more often if you have overhanging trees.  Once you've cleaned the debris, flush the gutters and downspouts with a hose.  This completes the cleaning but also serves to locate any leaks/damage in the gutters.

Moss between the pavers?  Moss has no roots so you can easily brush it off with a stiff bristle brush.  If there is a large area to scrub get a stiff bristle broom.  To prevent moss from returning you can spray the areas with a bleach solution : 90% water 10% bleach, but be sure to do a spot test first to make sure it doesn't discolor the pavers.

Tips for Daylilies: Just after the flowers fade in early fall is the best time to divide and transplant day lilies. Before the move, cut the foliage back to 6 to 8 inches high. This will make the plants easier to work with while still leaving enough foliage to provide energy to the roots. After the transplant, leave the remaining foliage until it dies back.

A fall tip for gardeners - use golf tees to mark perennials so when they have gone dormant you'll still know where they are!

Once the garden has been picked for the last time add organic amendments (homemade compost, manure, blood meal, bone meal, cottonseed meal, greensand, etc) to improve the long term health of your soil. By adding them in the fall, they have time to break down into a form that plants can use, just in time for spring! 

Are you a little ocd about closing apps as soon as you finish using them?  Research shows that this can actually make your battery life worse if you do it on a regular basis.  When you open an app your device has to load it into the memory which can use more battery life than leaving it open.  This is especially useful for people checking social media over and over, just leave it open!

Deadhead Black-eyed Susans weekly during the blooming period, which lasts from early June until October. Remove each spent flower to encourage the plant to produce more flowers.

To keep your refrigerator running as efficiently as possible vacuum the refrigerator coils at least twice a year.

Habits may be hard to break but don’t deadhead or fertilize anything that won’t make it through the cold months.  These practices encourage growth which you should wait until spring to do again, now is the time to simply prune as needed. 

It's only a couple weeks before the kids head back to school.  This is a good time to begin the adjustment back to a school year bedtime routine.

If spiders are a problem in your basement (or anywhere) fill a spray bottle with water and mix in 15 to 20 drops of peppermint oil. Spray down all the cracks and corners of the room (or rooms) and you should find this eliminates your spider problem. 

Odor absorbers like baking soda, charcoal briquettes, and kitty litter are all effective to help eliminate those musty mildew smells that may pop up in certain rooms of your home.  The permanent solution is to find the source and remove it (boxes of clothing, papers, many things will get damp and hold the dampness) but in the meantime place a container in the offending room and change it every month.

To get rid of fruit flies or gnats mix two tablespoons of vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sugar, a few drops of soap, and 4 cups of water in a container. Mix it well then place the container around the area where you see the most gnats.

Place a sock containing cat litter in musty closets or smelly shoes to eliminate odors.

Every time it rains the windows get dirty again!  Try this.  Clean the windows with an equal mixture of vinegar and warm water. If you want to take it a step further you can even apply a glass sealant to provide an invisible barrier between a window's surface and dust, dirt and other air pollutants.

If ground bees have become a problem in your outdoor area try to find the entrance to their nests and spray it with water. The entrances are small piles or patches of bare soil. If the entrance to their nest gets wet they will move to another area as they prefer dry soil to nest in.

GRILL YOUR MEAT TO THE PROPER INTERNAL TEMPERATURE. 
-Steaks, Roasts and Chops- 145F
-Poultry- 165F
-Ground Poultry- 165F
-Ground Meats- 160F
GRILL ON!

For Maximum tomato yields always stake or cage your plants.

Rust marks on stainless steel? Just a small amount of lighter fluid on a rag to rub the rust away. Wipe with a clean rag to remove any lighter fluid residue.

Tip for getting rid of Fruit Flies- Vinegar and dish soap.  Add three drops of dish soap to a bowl of vinegar, and leave it uncovered. The soap will cut the surface tension of the vinegar so the flies will sink and drown.

Tired of seeing water stains on the ceiling tile? Try mixing 2 parts bleach with 1 part water in a clean spray bottle. Spray the stain and then wait for at least 30 minutes. You may have to repeat this process a few times until the stain disappears.  

Is your garden producing more summer squash or zucchini than you can eat?  Be generous with your friends and neighbors and then be creative with what is left.  If you type either in to Google you will find LOTS of great and easy recipes!

Grill Safety:  Inspect the hoses on a gas grill for cracking, brittleness, holes and leaks. Make sure there are no sharp bends in the hose or tubing and that all connections are secure. Replace if necessary. Keep the grill hoses as far away as possible from hot surfaces and dripping hot grease.

Washing Machine Cleaning Tips

For a Front Loader Washing Machine Gasket:

Pack the rubber folds of the gasket with paper towels soaked in hydrogen peroxide. Leave it to soak for a few hours before wiping down clean and dry.

For a Top Loader Washing Machine :

Use a paper towel soaked in hydrogen peroxide to wipe around the opening of the machine. Try to get between the tub rim and top edges, and all the areas that the water can’t get to.

Place pots of herbs such as basil, mint or lavender around your patio or deck to help eliminate pesky flies.  Flies dislike the fragrance of these herbs!

Clean out your window wells.  Debris can accumulate quickly.  

A listener is suggesting a solution for carpenter ants. Look to ePestsupply.com, KM ant pro liquid ant bait station with gourmet liquid ant bait, and Advance carpenter ant bait. Apparently they work better than ant hotels, etc and sprays. The queen needs to be killed. Also, ants will come in from other areas, so you just need to repeat and put in other areas. Work on tiny ants also. We haven't tried it, but hey, it's worth a shot!

Are you pruning your tomato plants?  Don't forget to spend a few minutes removing unneeded growth tips (the new growth–the small leafy-bud growth–located in the “V” or crotch between two stems). This type of pruning allows the tomato plant to 'focus' on the development of the tomato rather than the plant which results in better flavor, larger growth and overall healthier tomatoes.

3 ways to add Curb Appeal to your home. Paint the front door, Upgrade your mailbox and Install new house numbers!

Apples turn brown when they are cut because the enzymes and iron phenols in the fruit oxidize when exposed to air.  If you or your children prefer an apple sliced but you don't pack them in the lunch box because of the browning try this: slice the apple and then place a rubber band around it to hold it tightly together.  When it's time to eat remove the rubber band and you have a nice fresh sliced apple! 

For several days prior to aeration, water your lawn until you can easily push your finger roughly one inch into the ground. If the ground is hard, the aerator won't be able to penetrate the soil. 

Water your plants with leftover brewed coffee! Coffee contains potasium, calcium,nitrogen, phosphorus and other minerals to boost plant growth.

Does everyone in the family know how to use a fire extinguisher?  Make sure you have one, make sure it's accessible, make sure everyone knows how to use it and finally make sure you check it to see that the gauge shows adequate pressure and that it has no visible signs of wear and tear.

If you have a dehumidifier, turn it on when the temperature rises. Ridding your house of humidity will make you feel a lot more comfortable and could save you money but not having to keep your air conditioner set too low.

This seems like common sense but in the hectic busy days of summer sometimes a reminder is a good idea...Always supervise the activities of small children around a pool and remove dangerous chemicals such as chlorine from areas where they can be accessed by children or pets.

Take care of weeds in between sidewalks and pavers by spraying with vinegar.

Put some vinegar in an ice tray and let it freeze.  Then run the ice cubes through the sink garbage disposal. This serves two functions, it freshens the garbage disposal and the ice sharpens the blades.

*Fireworks Safety Tips*

*Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.

*Never light fireworks indoors or next to dry grass.

*Point fireworks away from homes.

*Closely supervise children at all times.

*Little arms are too short to hold sparklers, which can heat up to 1,200 degrees. Option: Let your young children use glow sticks instead. 

Over the summer months, dirt, mold, pollen and tree sap steadily accumulate on your siding.  Take the time to powerwash your siding.  Not only is it unsightly but left unchecked it could shorten the life of your siding.

Top 5 Survival Uses for a Bandana 1. A Signal Flag, 2. A Bag, 3. A Tourniquet, 4. Cordage, 5. A Breathing Mask. 

Wi-Fi Tip: Be aware of all the devices connected to your home network, including baby monitors, gaming consoles, TVs, appliances and computers. Make sure they are all protected by a strong password Check for updates periodically on each system.

How to pick strawberries ……                                                                                                                                                                                                       Grasp the stem just above the berry between the forefinger and the thumbnail and pull with a slight twisting motion.

With the stem broken about one-half inch from the berry, allow it to roll into the palm of your hand.

Repeat these operations using both hands until each holds 3 or 4 berries.

Wash and Enjoy!

With the weather getting nicer and summer vacation on its way, now is a good time to check the kids outdoor play sets. If you see mold clean it with a solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water.  Tighten bolts and make sure things are still properly put together and safe to use.  Check for sharp edges and splinters.  

If you plan to resurface your driveway the warm summer months are the best time to do so. 

The anthocyanins in tart cherries activate a molecule that helps rev up fat burning and decrease fat storage.

Cornell Cooperative Extension reminds us of this tree pruning tip: Rapid healing of a wound occurs when cuts are made nearly flush with the adjoining branch. When stubs are left, healing is prevented, and the stubs die back leaving entry for disease and rot organisms.

Prevent insect infestation by keeping the basement and attic dry and well-ventilated.

Ultra-Violet Rays are the greatest in the late Spring and Early Summer in North America. Protect yourself by wearing a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.

IDEAL PLANTING DISTANCE FOR SHRUBS. The closest a medium-height shrub should be to your home is 3 feet, but a tall shrub should be planted at least 5 feet from your home.

SAFETY DRIVING TIPS FROM THE NHTSA Stop along the way to take a group stretch, get something to eat and drink, return any calls or text messages, and change drivers if you’re feeling tired or drowsy. Consider staying overnight at a hotel or family resort.

Not too long now and you'll be cranking the A.C.  Take the time to have your air conditioning unit serviced before you put it to the test!

According to STIHL you shouldn't put your power tools to work immediately after a season of storage.  They suggest you let them warm up for a few minutes before their first use of the year.

Damp lawn ? Should you mow or not? If it sinks as you walk, it is too wet to mow. It is never safe to use an electric mower with an extension cord when mowing wet grass. Your mower blades need to be very sharp. If you meet all of those conditions and the grass is getting high you are free to mow that damp lawn.

It is important to regularly leak test your BBQ gas bottle, regulator and hose. Leaks from these items are frequently the cause of BBQ gas fires. Spray or brush a soapy solution on the gas value, the hose and the regulator. Stand back and take a look. Soap bubbles will instantly form and grow if there's a gas leak in any of the components.