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The Grout Solution

You know that icky black stuff in between your tiles? The grim that takes so much effort to get rid off? Well, apparently there's an easier and greener way to do it. I'm all for green methods, especially if it means I have to break into much less sweat. Heh.

Why is it important to maintain the grout?
Cleaning the grout isn't just about keeping up appearances. The grout should be maintained for hygienic purposes as well. Mould and mildew can accumulate in the spaces between the tiles. When this happens, it can lead to contamination and disease.

It is only natural for grout to become dirty, because after all, it does get exposed to traffic, air, and water. It is not about preventing the inevitable. It is about finding easy solutions to cleaning up the scum.

Use oxygen bleach to clean the grout.
Powdered oxygen bleach is an ideal cleaning method because it is safe and non-toxic. These two descriptions are golden, considering that tiles are used frequently in kitchens. Also, oxygen bleach does not release harsh fumes when they are used.

The oxygen bleach cleans the grout by breaking down the molecules that make up the stains on the grout. To use the oxygen bleach, mix it with warm water. Soak the tiles, especially the grout lines, for about 15 minutes. Simply scrub away the stains after.

Commercially available chemicals are definitely effective in cleaning up grout. However, they are not the only answers. Explore other greener solutions, such as oxygen bleach and even baking soda and vinegar. Not only are they inexpensive, they are also better for the environment.

Maintain the grout every day.
Keeping the grout looking clean is not just a once-a-week thing. Many homeowners – this one included – would agree that the easiest way to keep the space looking clean is to take small, constant steps. The same principle holds true with grout. When mopping the tiled floors, add a little bit of oxygen bleach powder to the water.

Another way to ensure that the tiles look new is to install a means of ventilation in the room. Grout becomes mouldy when there is excess moisture. Place an exhaust fan in the kitchen or bathroom so that the humidity is regulated. Keeping the moisture at bay will lessen the need for vigorous cleaning.

Finally, clean up spills as quickly as possible. Grout is porous so when staining agents come in contact with it, (Orange juice! Tomato sauce! Wine!) it can be discoloured. Prevent this from happening by mopping up the mess with soap and water.

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Buzz Off!

Solving your mosquito problem

Mosquitoes are more than just an annoyance. They can be a serious problem because they are potential carriers of diseases like malaria. Fortunately, there are ways to control their existence at home.

Keep your surroundings clean.
Routinely check the home and nearby areas for places where mosquitoes can breed. Get rid of any stagnant pools of water, as these are where mosquitoes lay their eggs. Do not just look at the obvious places - mosquitoes can even breed in puddles that form near the garden hose. Some species only take 4 days to turn from eggs to adults!

Mosquitoes can be quite clever and it does not take much water for the larvae to survive. For instance, mosquitoes can lay their eggs inside trash cans, if water collects at the bottom. Make sure the flower pots have sufficient drainage so there is no standing water.

Clean out the gutters of the house regularly. If leaves and other debris collect in the gutters, the water will not drain properly. These places can be used as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

For places where the water can be drained, a good tip is to put a few drops of dishwashing liquid to the water. The soap will prevent the eggs from developing into adult mosquitoes.

Keep the mosquitoes away.
Be proactive in keeping the mosquitoes away. There are some easy steps that can be done in order to make your body less attractive to these pests. Aside from specially formulated lotions to keep mosquitoes away, there are some household items that can be used.

Mosquitoes do not like the smell of fabric softener, so use them when washing the clothes. It is also a good idea to stuff a few fabric softener sheets on your pockets while working in mosquito-prone area. Another interesting method is to use a minty-smelling substance such as mouthwash or a cold rub. Simply apply to exposed areas of skin to prevent bites.

In the event that you have already been bitten, do not scratch. Use calamine lotion or spritz on some hairspray to the affected area to stop the itching.

Use plants as natural repellents.
Mosquitoes are naturally adverse to some plants. Citronella, lemongrass, and horsemint have scents that mosquitoes cannot stand. Another useful plant to have around is rosemary. Aside from being a wonderful addition to recipes, rosemary can drive away mosquitoes as well.

Some flowering plants can also be used as a means to keep the mosquitoes at bay. An example is the marigold. Plant these on the ground, or place them in flower pots as a cheerful means of protection.

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Natural light from the dormer windows and green bead board walls increase the sense of space and relaxation.