Pama's Friendly Tips

Removing Tarnish

Use a simple ‘paste’ made of table salt and lemon water to make copper, chrome, and brass shine once more. After applying the mixture, let it sit for about 10 minutes before rinsing with warm water and ultimately applying a gentle buffer to enhance the shine effect.

Bathroom Cleaning

Bathroom cleaners are perhaps the most toxic cleaning supplies on the market, which is especially concerning when considering that the toxic compounds will end up compiling into the small space that compromises the traditional bathroom. Instead, use a mixture of borax powder and lemon juice to clean your bathroom efficiently and naturally.

This is good advice if you are trying to rid your home of harsh chemicals.

Disinfect and Deodorize Naturally

Disinfectant chemicals are among the most widely used in homes throughout the developed world. In fear of germs and the potential ailments that ‘dirty’ countertops could bring, you may be wiping down your tables daily with antibacterial wipes and sprays. Not only does this contribute to resistant bugs that could cause serious problems for public health, but scientists are increasingly showing that some bacteria is essential to proper immunity.

Instead of harsh cleaners, use lemon juice to clean cutting boards and counter tops naturally — without developing heavily resistant ‘super’ bugs. In addition, the lemon juice can help remove unwanted stains and odors.

I do not have a fish tank, but I thought this was a very good idea. I felt I needed to share this with you.

Before You Empty the Fish Tank…

The dirty water from a fish tank makes a wonderful organic fertilizer for your houseplants.

Blue…and Good for You

We planted two little blueberry bushes in our front yard this year. They both have little blueberries on them. They are so cute. I wish I was more of a gardner and had more land for a garden. I just don’t have a green thumb.

Eat blueberries to keep your memory sharp. Researchers at Tufts University in Boston found that anthocyanin, the chemical in blueberries that gives them their beautiful blue color, also encourages the growth of new brain cells.

I think we all need this.

Flower Magic

I thought this was interesting and thought I would share it with you.

If you have white or very light-colored flowers in a vase, add food coloring to the water. As they absorb the colored water, the flowers will become a muted version of that new color.

Clean Your Baseball Cap

It’s that time of year when kids are playing ball. My grandson’s are playing tee ball. I have seen them throw their hats down many times. What a dusty mess. Here is a good tip on how to clean your ball caps if you have a dish washer.

Washing machines tend to be tough on cotton baseball caps…so use the dishwasher instead. The cap will come out clean, and it will also retain its shape.