5/5/10

If you want to deodorize your smelly shirts, leave behind the harsh chlorine bleach and head to the bar instead. Just fill a spray bottle with inexpensive vodka and spray away. The high alcohol content kills the odor bacteria and evaporates quickly, leaving no sign of vodka and no smell of that 5-mile run at the gym. (After spraying, you can wash your clothes as you normally would.)

5/4/10

Many chemical insecticides used inside the home can create a toxic indoor environment that may be harmful to you, your family and your pets. While the solution isn't to allow insects to run freely in your home, there is a greener and more effective alternative. A company called EcoSMART has launched an all-organic insecticide that uses a patented blend of essential oils -- like rosemary, peppermint and cinnamon -- to specifically kill and repel insects all while being completely harmless to us. Learn more at ecosmart.com.

5/3/10

A packed freezer is the best way to keep the biggest energy hog in the home running more efficiently; frozen food needs less energy to stay frozen and it helps keep the freezer at the optimal temperature. Dip food in water and then place it inside a freezer bag; the ice coating creates an extra layer of protection that prevents freezer burn. Hot foods (soups, sauces) should be cooled at room temperature, then placed in the refrigerator to chill even more and then eventually placed in the freezer; the foods will freeze better. Never refreeze foods that have thawed; freeze does not kill bacteria.