If you receive fresh cut flowers for Mother’s Day, remove any plastic wrapping and immediately cut the stems at an angle with a sharp knife, about 1-2 inches from the bottom, then place them in fresh water. The angle cut allows the stems to absorb water better.
Next time you’re outside doing yard work, taking a walk (no matter how short), or hiking, take along a sticky tape lint roller and periodically roll it across your skin and clothes. Any ticks that have landed on you will be picked up.
For small surface scratches on your dark wood furniture or floors, gently rub a walnut half over the scratch. Let the natural oils penetrate into the scratch for several minutes, then buff with a soft, dry cloth.
To conserve water, use a broom or rake to clean away leaves and debris from your driveway and patio rather than a hose. Using a hose can waste as much as 150 gallons of water. You’ll get the added benefit of getting some exercise as well!
Grab a couple of mismatched socks, put them over your hands, and use them to dust around the house. The socks will trap dirt, hair, and dust on appliances, tables, blinds, and TV screens. Then just toss them in the wash!
Hard-boiling eggs for Easter? Add a pinch of salt to the water to prevent the shells from cracking.
To make the crispiest, most delicious homemade French Fries, allow the sliced potatoes to stand in cold water for half an hour (and dry thoroughly) before frying.
No herb garden is complete without fragrant, medicinal mint, but it can be invasive. Prevent it from overrunning your garden by planting it in barrels or other decorative containers.
To keep bathroom mirrors from fogging, coat them with shaving cream and wipe them with a clean cloth before your shower. Works great on eyeglasses, too!
Love natural peanut and other nut butters, but don’t like when the oil separates? Simply stir it once and then store the jar in the refrigerator. The nut butter will stay combined and it will keep fresher longer.
