Archive for the ‘Tips and Hints’ Category

Apr
16

Tips and Tricks for Using Ordinary Household Items for Cleaning

April 16th, 2013 by Rainbow International

We seem to now find ourselves in the age of the “Do-It-Yourselfer”. People are always trying to find new ways that they can create their own products. There are several reasons for this. The first is that, generally, when people make their own products they are cheaper than the comparable product that they would purchase from the store. Since we are in a time of economic downturn, this is an important benefit for many.

The second large benefit from making our own household products is that they will generally contain fewer harmful chemicals. These chemicals that do-it-yourself products do not have are often carcinogens or toxins that we would prefer not to have in our body. If these benefits seems like something that you are interested in, try some of these at home remedies for household cleaning products.

1. Homemade Air Freshener.
Many people like to keep a spare can of Febreeze in almost every room in their house, but what they do not realize is that aerosol cans are filled with toxins, as well as the Febreeze itself. In order to make your own spray air freshener, you will need three ingredients: an empty spray bottle, vinegar, and the rinds of the fruit you would like your air freshener to smell like (generally citrus fruits work best). Simply put vinegar into the spray bottle along with the fruit rinds and let the mixture sit for several days. After these several days, spray away!

2. Baking soda is your best friend.
Most everyone has baking soda in their homes at all times, but did you know that the contents of that little box can be used for so many things? Simply sprinkle it on surfaces and scrub with a wet sponge. You will be amazed at how much your counter tops, stove tops, and even sinks sparkle!

3. Squeaky clean wood.
A lot of people spend large amounts of money on the liquid wood cleaners that you put in your mop bucket and add water, but there is a much cheaper solution that you already have in your home, and that’s vinegar! Simply add about a half cup of vinegar to a gallon of water and mop your floors as your normally would. This mixture will be safer for your family and kinder to your wallet.

4. Tub and tile cleaner.
Often times cleaning tubs and tile can be a difficult and dirty job. Because of this, people think that harsh chemicals are the only way to combat these grimy surfaces. Instead of using the chemicals, get out these 4 ingredients: 2/3 cup baking soda, 1/2 cup liquid soap, 1/2 cup of water, and 2 tablespoons of vinegar. Be sure to add the vinegar last so it does not react with the baking soda and ruin your mixture. To use this cleaner, simply spread the cleaner wherever you want to clean and scrub off immediately.

If you are looking to help your health and your financials, try making some of these recipes today.

Author Pam Johnson is a nurse who obtained her degree from one of the Top Online Master’s in Nursing Programs in the country. She promotes natural living to all of her patients in the way of diet, exercise, and using ordinary and natural household items for cleaning.

Apr
9

How to Create an Allergy/Asthma-Friendly Environment Through Green Living

April 9th, 2013 by Rainbow International

You’re probably already aware of the many benefits that green living has for the environment. However, you might not often think about the many ways in which this lifestyle can really affect the human body. Consider these points, which posit that green living can actually help people to better deal with asthma and their allergies. It’s an intriguing school of thought, but also extremely beneficial!

Pollution from Cars
For the most serious of asthmatic patients, greeting a burst of pollution from a car might mean a trip to the hospital. Furthermore, seasonal allergens in the air can be increase through interaction with cars. Instead of going for that gas guzzler the next time you buy a car, choose one that is Eco-friendly. These types of cars get more miles per gallon of gas, so you don’t have to worry about polluting the environment quite as much. If you are able to encourage other people to do so too, you can really make a difference.

Organic Foods
People are really starting to question why individuals seem to have higher rates of allergies and asthma than ever before, and some believe that it’s due to genetically modified organisms found in foods or certain types of chemicals often used in the production of foods. By choosing organic foods, you can help eliminate these issues both on a personal level (by treating your body right) and global level (by decreasing demand for GMOs and non-organic food).

Choosing Green Cleaners
As you are spraying a bunch of cleaners around your house, you might think that you are doing a great favor to yourself or the environment. Instead, you are really polluting the very home you live in with unnecessary chemicals. Not only can these chemicals possibly contribute to allergies and asthma, they can be dangerous for your children and pets. Therefore, you should look for environmentally friendly cleaners in your local supermarket or other store to cut back on this risk. Many people actually choose to make their own cleaning supplies out of green ingredients you can buy at any grocery store. Thousands of frugal recipes exist depending on what and where you need to clean.

Alternative Medical Remedies
Another often-cited source of our problems is the chemicals, hormones and other substances that might get pumped into people when they go to the doctor. You should never jump head first into a new medical regimen, but choosing alternative medical remedies might be helpful to you. For example, some feel that exposure to mild allergens can actually help people to get over these allergies better than medicinal methods currently in use to treat allergies. However, it is really important that you avoid using any potentially dangerous methods, especially when it comes to your children. If you find an alternative remedy that sounds like it could be for you, talk to your doctor about it. If it’s a household change, be sure to ask about the effects on any elderly or children you have living with you, who have very different respiratory, immune and digestive systems.

Green living can certainly have a positive effect on the lives of people who suffer from allergies and/pr asthma. However, you can’t always guarantee that these methods will work, and it’s important to pick methods that are right for both you and your family. Think about the big picture when you are deciding what to do in terms of health, nutrition, comfort and finance.

Author Pam Johnson is a nurse who constantly stresses to her patients the importance of a natural lifestyle as a way to increase health, She is a contributing writer for the Associates Degree in Nursing Guide.

Apr
2

Spring Cleaning Starter List

April 2nd, 2013 by Rainbow International

When spring appears, so does the sunshine – and with that often it becomes obvious how unclean your house actually is. The sun filtering in seems to just bounce off the dust and grime.

If you are ready for a spring clean, you may find these tips useful in achieving an immaculate home. Make sure to play some lively, summer music to keep your spirits high.

  • Wash windows by using newspaper instead of paper towel or a cloth that may streak
  • Flip and rotate your mattress to keep wear and tear even on all sides. Now is a good opportunity to vacuum the mattress as well.
  • Wash curtains and wipe down all blinds
  • Pull everything out of your fridge to clean – and don’t forget to toss any condiments that have expired
  • Run the dishwasher through with no dishes to clean out the working parts
  • Dust before you vacuum or wash floors as the particles will settle on the ground
  • Wash all pillows and comforters/quilts to rid them of pollen and dust
  • Disinfect cutting boards and organize all cupboards holding dishes and pots and pan – recycle ones you never use
  • Steam clean all upholstery – if you are renting a machine do your car at the same time!
  • Wash or replace all indoor and outdoor mats
  • Unpack summer clothes and air them out. Use this opportunity to pack up winter clothes, and get rid of what you didn’t wear all season.
  • Pull out both the stove and fridge to vacuum and clean behind
  • Wash and repair all outdoor furniture
  • Clean your garbage disposal by running it with ice cubes and citrus peels inside
  • Make sure to have maintenance done on your air conditioner
  • Clean your mops, brooms and even garbage cans – prevent more mess from being pushed around your home

Once you are finished cleaning – remember to reward yourself with a nice glass of lemonade in your sparkling clean home!

Mar
27

The Safest Products for Your Baby’s Bedroom

March 27th, 2013 by Rainbow International

Keeping a newborn or infant safe is important for new parents. There are many products that can be used in a baby’s bedroom that can keep them safe and secure. Review a few of the options available that will help keep a baby’s bedroom safe.

Walls and Windows

The walls in a baby’s bedroom are a source of injury if steps are not taken to keep a baby safe. You will need to install safety covers on any outlets that are within reach of an infant. Make sure to cover outlets that are behind a crib. This is important as you move the mattress lower. Window guards will also need to be installed on all your windows. These are designed to cover a window when it is open to prevent a child from climbing and pushing on the screen.

Lighting and Furniture

Floor lamps should not be used in a baby’s room due to tripping hazards from electrical cords. You can easily use a desk lamp that is specifically designed for a nursery. Look for lamps that have a short cord or run on batteries. A zip tie can be used to secure long electrical cords. If you have any furniture using a hinge, then attach hinge guards. These can also be installed on closet doors. Secure the furniture used in a baby’s room with a baby furniture anchor.

Cribs for Baby

New cribs that are made today need to meet safety standards set by the CPSC. If your crib is older than 10 years, then a new crib should be purchased to use in a baby’s room. This will ensure that you have a crib that is meeting current safety standards. You should not use cribs that are handed down even if it is well-made and will save money. The safety of your child needs to be considered first. One thing you should know about old cribs is that drop-side models are not considered safe. New cribs may also have bumpers that can be attached around the perimeter. Most new cribs have the option to convert into a bed when a child gets older.

The Crib Mattress

The mattress used in a baby’s crib needs to have a snug fit and be firm. A firm fit is necessary as a baby should not be able to get trapped between the mattress and the side of the crib. Make sure to leave your crib at the highest mattress setting for a new-born. You have the option to choose a mattress that is made with foam or has springs. The type of mattress to purchase is based on preference. Newer mattresses to use with a crib are made with non-toxic materials. Avoid purchasing a used mattress.

Crib Accessories

Cribs for use in a baby’s room can have many types of accessories. Two types of accessories that can be used with a crib are lamb’s wool pads and cashmere blankets. A lamb’s wool pad is a baby product made for any mattress that provides comfort during the winter and throughout the summer. One reason to use a lamb’s wool pad is because the material resists the growth of bacteria and dust mites. A blanket that is made of cashmere is that it is a breathable material. This means a cashmere blanket can be used in cold and hot weather to keep a baby comfortable.

Toy Boxes

Toy boxes that are purchased today are designed to meet new safety standards. They are designed to be child-safe and use non-toxic materials. If you have an old toy box, then you may want to get a new one that you know is safe for your child. New toy boxes have a cut-out on each side for ventilation and will not have a lock. You can easily convert an old toy box to make it child-safe to save money. Make sure that a toy box used in a baby’s room has a lightweight lid that can be easily opened.

Additional Information

You should also install a smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector in a baby’s room. This is to ensure there is an extra layer of protection in the event of an emergency. However, you will need to have smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in other areas of your home.

This article was supplied by www.naturalmat.co.uk, specialists in organic baby products.

Mar
21

Six Expert Spring Cleaning Tips for a Tidy, Healthy Home

March 21st, 2013 by Rainbow International

It is spring, but along with the blooming of flowers and warmer weather comes the daunting task of spring cleaning. It’s time to open the windows and tackle those chores with these six tips from Aire Serv®, Glass Doctor®, Mr. Appliance®, Mr. Rooter® and Rainbow International®.

Dishwasher
According to Mr. Appliance, a dishwasher can be cleaned using a small brush dipped in hot soapy water. With the brush, clean the grooves in the rubber seal by going around the door of the dishwasher. Then, place a dishwasher-safe cup of white vinegar on the top rack and run a normal cycle.

Refrigerator
Using a hand-held vacuum, remove the dust from coils underneath or on the backside of the fridge. Accumulated dust can cause the motor to overheat and increase the cost of running the appliance.

Sink
To achieve a fresh smelling sink, keep leftover citrus peels. Mr. Rooter recommends putting a cupful of ice cubes as well as citrus peels in the garbage disposal. Turn on cold water and then the disposal for 15 to 30 seconds. Then, turn off the disposal and continue to rinse with hot water for 15 seconds.

Windows
When washing windows, wipe vertically outside and horizontally inside, so any missed areas can quickly be spotted. Glass Doctor, suggests drying the windows as you go with a squeegee or a micro-fiber towel to avoid water spots.

Air Conditioner
Have your central air conditioning system inspected by a HVAC professional, like Aire Serv, before the summer hits. The air conditioner keeps your home cool and it dehumidifies to keep mold from growing inside the walls. Clean or replace air filters monthly to help the AC unit run more efficiently. Remove shrubs, grass and leaves from the condenser coil and within three feet of outside unit.

Rain Gutters
Although often forgotten, rain gutters are important for home defense against storms. According to Rainbow International, water from rain can erode soil around the foundation, splash dirt onto the siding and leak into the basement causing expensive damage.

Utilizing these simple tips in your spring cleaning arsenal can help save you time, frustration and money down the line. Not to mention, you can rest easy in a clean and healthy home.

Mar
13

How to Stay Safe During DIY

March 13th, 2013 by Rainbow International

DIY projects that are done around the home require a safety first approach. This needs to be the number one concern as many jobs around the home can have the potential for injury. Keeping safe performing a DIY project can be done by reviewing a few safety tips for any type or project.

No Open Toed Shoes

Always wear a set of construction boots or a pair of steel-toed shoes when working on any project with heavy objects. The steel inserts in construction boots are designed to protect your toes from objects that are heavy enough to cause injury. If you do not have a pair of construction boots, then wear hiking boots or another type of heavy work boot.

Protect Your Hands

Wear gloves to protect your hands from stains and injury. Jersey gloves are a good choice if you have a painting job to complete. Gloves will also help to protect the hands from blisters. Heavy gloves need to be worn when working around open flames or any objects that are extremely hot. You can find a variety of glove choices at a local home improvement store.

Wear Eye Protection

Any type of work with wood or metal requires wearing eye protection. This includes goggles or glasses to protect your eyes from fragments flying through the air. You should also wear a face shield to protect against sparks when grinding metals. Eye protection can be found at a hardware store or from any local home improvement center. Eye protection should be second nature when working on any project. Make sure to look for eye protection that fits tight to your face.

No Loose Hair

Loose hair can easily get caught in machinery used in a workshop or for a DIY project. You can tuck any loose hair under a hot or keep is tucked under a shirt. Make sure that no loose clothing is being worn as it can also get caught in machinery and power tools. Shirts can have no sleeves or have buttons that are on the cuffs to keep them secure.

Provide Enough Light

Working in dimly lighted areas can be dangerous if there is any risk of falling or other injury. You need to illuminate a work area with strong lighting, such as construction floodlights. Another option is to use hand lighting from the ceiling or use any type of portable light. Look for lighting option at a local home improvement store.

Protect Your Lungs

Fumes from paint and debris from sanding are hazards to your health. You need to have a dusk mask or respirator on hand for any projects that involve chemicals or sanding equipment. A dust mask is a good choice for a DIY project and can be found at a home improvement center or local hardware store.

Create a Breeze

Fumes from chemicals and paint need to be ventilated from any inside room. You can easily ventilate a room by opening a window or door and setting up a box fan. If you are working inside or any area with no windows or doors, then take a break every few minutes to breathe a bit of fresh air. This is important if you start to feel dizzy or lightheaded when working on a project.

Respect the Ladder

Ladders need to be set up properly and kept stable. Do not go up a ladder if it is not sitting on a surface that is level. Avoid the top two rungs of an extension ladder as it will be unstable. A-frame ladders need to be locked in place and extension ladders should have a second person holding it in place.

Protecting the Floors

DIY projects that require working over a finished floor will require floor protecting film. This film will be used to protect the floor from liquids, such as paint, or falling debris. If there is a risk of slipping on the floor, then set up anti-slip mats. This is a good option for a garage if oil is present.

Protect Against Fire

A fire extinguisher should be on hand when working with sparking metal, open flame, or any tools that can create heat. You should also have a first-aid kit on hand to treat any burns, cuts, or other injury that may occur during a DIY project.

This article was supplied by www.cobaeurope.com, UK-based experts in flooring.

Mar
6

Candle Soot Claims: Part One

March 6th, 2013 by Rainbow International

Insurance and commercial property management companies have noted an increase in claims due to black spot stains on ceilings, walls, furniture, contents and HVAC filters from previously unidentified sources. The mystery is solved though! The problem is referred to as “black soot deposition” (BSD) and, as research indicates, a common household decorative item frequently causes it.

There is no evidence of a sudden or accidental source for BSD, like malfunctioning furnaces, gas water heaters, cigarette smoke or cooking by-products. Until recently, there was little compelling evidence to assign proper blame for the source of BSD. Tests have confirmed, however, the primary culprits are very possibly decorative scented candles.

Low quality candles are often to blame

Research indicates increased BSD is often the result of candle manufacturers adding additional fragrance oils to their products, along with improper wick trimming by customers. Many fragrance oils are not suitable for combustion and do not burn cleanly. It also appears many amateur candle-makers have entered the expanding market to capitalize on the current popularity of candles without proper training or experience.  The outcome is an abundance of low-quality candles burning in many homes and a corresponding increase in the frequency of indoor soot deposits.

Potential dangers to structure and health

The number of aromatic candle manufacturers, professional and amateur, grows each year. Many companies introduce candles to their product line without the knowledge necessary to produce a safe and clean-burning product. According to J. David Krause’s thesis, “Characterization of Scented Candle Emissions and Associated Public Health Risks,” chemical testing provides conclusive evidence that emissions from some burning candles contain more than 20 volatile organic compounds, lead and a significant amount of carbon.

Burning scented candles inside homes, apartments and commercial buildings can present serious health hazards to those living and working there. It can also mean damage to ventilation systems, furnishings and contents. Evidence suggests breathing even one micron of soot can be hazardous. It has been determined that breathing particulate matter, 2.5 microns or smaller, is detrimental to human health, and these particles are dangerous because they are inhaled deeply into the lungs, causing irritation and respiratory problems. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and American Lung Association (ALA) says those most at risk include people with heart or lung disease, children and the elderly.

Feb
26

How To Neutralize Skunk Odor

February 26th, 2013 by Rainbow International

Whew! What’s that smell? Is it you? No, can’t be. You smell like a skunk! Ever heard these words before? Hopefully you haven’t, but chances are you know at least one person that has or maybe you or your pet was sprayed. Regardless, you know how strong skunk odor is and just how difficult it is to get rid of.

You may never have a need for the following information; however, you might want to keep it around just in case.

Using tomato juice to remove skunk odor is an old wives’ tale that just does not work. Tomato juice only seems to work because at high doses of skunk spray the human nose quits smelling the odor (olfactory fatigue). When this happens, the tomato juice odor is the only detectable smell.

A person suffering olfactory fatigue to skunk spray will swear that the skunk odor is gone and was neutralized by the tomato juice. However, seek a second opinion! Asking someone else to take a whiff will readily confirm the tomato juice has not neutralized the skunk spray.

If your home has been skunked, or a pet has brought in the skunk smell, wash all sprayed clothes and fabrics immediately. The good news is that the odor will eventually go away, but may take several weeks.

To remove the scent, Rainbow International® Restoration and Cleaning recommends cleaning the area with a direct spray contamination containing a mixture of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide (one quart) with ¼ cup baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap or dishwashing detergent if the affected area is durable and colorfast.

Treating fabrics with an additional mixture before your regular laundry detergent may help as well, and household cleaning sprays and products like Febreeze can be effective against skunk smell on furniture.

For buildings, decks, etc., we suggest using a solution of liquid laundry Clorox® bleach, 1 cup of bleach per gallon of water will work. CAUTION – THIS MAY BLEACH THE BUILDINGS, DECKS, ETC. Try it on a small area if bleaching may be a problem.

The bleach must come in contact with the spot where the secretion was sprayed, and repeated applications may be necessary for large amounts of skunk spray. It will not work for skunk spray that has drifted over a large area or is trapped in a house. Time and adequate ventilation will help in this case. PLEASE DO NOT USE THIS ON PETS.

If home remedies aren’t working you might consider contacting a professional restoration firm that should be able to expedite the odor removal.

Feb
19

Soot Stained Figurine Collection Saved by Dry Steam and Use of Ultrasonic Technology

February 19th, 2013 by Rainbow International

Microwave ovens are modern conveniences we take for granted, but unfortunately, they can be very dangerous as one homeowner from Western New York recently found out.

Rainbow International® of Monroe County was called in after a woman’s home was badly burned when her microwave burst into flames and caught her kitchen on fire. Smoke and soot had blanketed the interior of the 4,000 sq. foot home along with more than thousands of figurines and dolls that the homeowner had collected.

According to franchise owner Bob Cobb, the homeowner had been collecting these dolls for many years, and the fire damage caused her much distress.

“I was so happy to have been there for her during this very stressful time,” said Cobb.

The entire first floor of the home was gutted, and the second floor had ceilings that had to come down. The rest of the home was cleaned and painted, and the dolls and figurines were meticulously cleaned.

“Normally contents to be cleaned are packed out to a cleaning facility, but our four-man crew cleaned for four weeks inside the home,” added Cobb. “A no pack-out strategy was used in this situation because it reduced packing material costs and, more importantly, lessened the chance of damage to the figurines and dolls.”

A high pressure, low moisture dry steam cleaner was used to clean the collection. Commercial vapor steam cleaners use an internal boiler to heat water under pressure, which causes the steam produced to be extremely dry (5 percent moisture), hot (220 degrees at the point of contact) and very fine (down to a particulate size of .0006 microns). Commercial steam cleaners sanitize and deodorize surfaces without chemicals.

In conjunction with the steam cleaner, an ultrasonic cleaning system was used. An ultrasonic washer is a cleaning device that uses ultrasound and a cleaning solvent to clean delicate items. In an ultrasonic, the object to be cleaned is placed in a tank. Ultrasonic cleaning uses high frequency sound waves to agitate in a liquid. Cavitation bubbles induced by the agitation act on contaminants adhering to substrates like metals, glass, and in this case ceramics. The equipment effectively penetrates holes, cracks and recesses for the ultimate clean.

With an ultrasonic cleaner, five to 20 items can be cleaned in three to four minutes, versus cleaning by hand that can take three to five minutes per item. Ultrasonic cleaners are used to clean many different types of objects including jewelry, optical lenses, watches, dental instruments and electronic equipment.

“The heat had unfortunately cracked some of the figurines, but we were able to save 95 percent of them,” said Cobb. “The homeowner was very pleased with the results and with the successful cleaning and deodorization of her home.”

Jan
30

What Kills a Water Heater and How to Increase Its Longevity

January 30th, 2013 by Rainbow International

Several elements factor into the possible demise of your water heater.  Neglect, rust, sediment buildup and high water pressure can all affect the effectiveness of your unit.

Your water heater should be checked annually for signs of corrosion, leaks, and external rust.  A quick check-up could save you thousands of dollars in repairs and replacement.

Scale, the sediment that builds up when water is heated, coats the bottom of the tank, causing it to heat up and melt away the protective glass lining.  Take the time to have your water heater checked by a professional to ensure an efficient, effective water heater for your home.

Many homeowners do not think of high water pressure when installing a new water heater.  However, this silent assassin could cause many problems down the line.  Check the water pressure gauge quarterly ensuring it maintains a safe psi pressure, in accordance to manufacturer guidelines.

Helpful tip: Add insulation to your water heater.  This allows the water to stay warmer, longer, thus eradicating the need for the heater to work overtime.  Flushing the tank and checking the anode rod annually (with the help of a professional plumber,) will increase the lifespan of your water heater.