Monday, June 6, 2011

Streak-free windows

Photo by Ricardo Diaz
I learned an easy way to have streak-free windows and mirrors while living in Latin America. Not only will you get streak-free results, but this method will show you a new way to reuse your newspaper before throwing it into the recycling bin.

Things You Need:
  • Your favorite window-washing solution
  • Several sheets of newspaper

Steps to Take:
  1. Wad up a few pieces of newspaper into separate wads
  2. Spray the windows and mirrors as normal
  3. Use a wadded piece of  newspapers to wipe the surface as you would with a paper towel. 
  4. Recycle the newspaper
While this method seems unconventional, it works well and does not leave fluff on the surfaces you clean, unlike paper towels. The only drawback is that you end up with newspaper ink on your hands, but you can wash it off with warm soap and water. However, the ink will not stain your windows or mirrors.

Give this method a try the next time you clean your glass surfaces. Let me know how it goes. 





Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Homemade Sugar Scrub

Sugar-Free Pineapple Zucchini Cake
Photo by Meng He

Trying to get rid of the white sugar in your cupboard? Rather than throw it away, use it to pamper yourself in a calorie-free way by making yourself a luxurious sugar scrub.

This is what you need:
  • 1/2 cup raw sugar
  • 1/2 cup regular (white) sugar 
  • 1/2 cup almond or olive oil
  • 2 pipets (droppers) full of Vitamin E oil. You can also pierce four Vitamin E capsules
  • 2 drops of your favorite essential oil, like lavender (Alternatively, you can also use a couple drops of your favorite food extract, such as vanilla or mint)
  • 8 oz. plastic container with a lid (do not use glass)
What to:
  1. Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl 
  2. Place the mixture into the plastic container and cover it with the lid
Use this sugar scrub as a way to exfoliate your skin and practice aroma therapy at the same time.

Do not use the scrub on your face, as the sugar crystals may be too abrasive. Be careful while walking in your shower or tub after using this or any type of oil-based scrub because the oil can make the floor slippery. After your shower, consider wiping down your tub with your regular cleaners or even a bit of dish soap (which cuts grease) mixed with warm water.