8/5/13

Who doesn't love their washing machine? It makes the task of laundry so much easier. But have you ever thought about washing your washing machine? You should: Over time, dirt, grime and excess detergent can build up. Twice a year, clean your washing machine to help keep it working like new. Choose the hottest water temperature setting and pour 1/2-cup baking soda where the powdered laundry detergent goes. Run the washer empty. This will scrub away bacteria, soap scum, deposits, dirt and anything else that may be in there.

8/4/13

New technologies in fabrics have led to the growing industry of T-shirts, jackets and pants embedded with SPF to protect you from the sun's harmful rays. But there's no need to ditch your old wardrobe and buy pricey new high-tech fashions to have fun in the sun: You can wash SPF protection right into your existing wardrobe. SunGuard RIT is an additive you combine with laundry detergent that leaves a safe, active ingredient on the fibers of your clothes. It blocks up to 96 percent of the sun's harmful rays and has an equivalency of an SPF 30. One coating will withstand 20 future washings.

8/3/13

Do you enjoy the convenience and taste of microwave popcorn? According to a report from the Food and Drug Administration, a chemical coating inside microwave popcorn bags can break down if overheated. This chemical -- known as PFOA -- is a carcinogen that has been found in nonstick cookware and is now being phased out. Most microwave popcorns contain fake butter chemicals and hydrogenated oils, making it an unhealthy snack. If you like the convenience of microwave popcorn and don't want to pop popcorn the old-fashioned way, look for brands that use uncoated bags and natural ingredients.