I always find that the best ideas come from friends and family.
Whenever an idea comes my way I try to remember to write it down and keep it in a file.
There is something nice about reusing household gadgets for getting a task done. Everyday tasks can be tackled easily with just a few basic items you may find around home. Here are a few ideas that you may find useful around your household.
Plastic water bottles and containers
Before you toss that water bottle in the recycle bin you may want to use it as a scoop for the garden or pet food. Simply trim off the top of the bottle with a pair of sharp scissors. Use this scoop for cleaning out your summer pots this fall.
Paint brushes
These are great and very handy for cleaning lampshades, outdoor furniture, plant baskets and even photo frames. If you have one or two in your kitchen drawer, you may want to dust off your wall sconces before putting the brush to work on your next paint job.
Toothpicks
Never underestimate the power of the toothpick. They are fantastic for unclogging burners on a gas stove and cleaning the holes in a kitchen strainer. They are also great for cleaning out soccer cleats.
Vinegar
It's never further than your kitchen cupboard or pantry and it is one of the most versatile products available. Use vinegar as an odour reducer and cleaner. Combined with baking soda, vinegar provides a much greener solution to clearing a drain and will also add moisture to a cake.
Baking soda
Did you know that this product cleans virtually everything? You can even use it as a shampoo. Just combine the baking soda with a little cornstarch and you will have a dry shampoo. It's also fabulous for cleaning bathrooms and kitchens. Just be aware that it can be a bit abrasive, so check to make sure it will not scratch the surface that you plan to use it on.
Painter's tape
I love this product. It has so many uses such as removing lint or fuzz from surfaces and marking possible furniture arrangements in the home. It can also be used for closing bags of cookies or crackers and the coloured versions are wonderful for wrapping gifts when co-ordinated with coloured papers.
lunter@shaw.ca
