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Warm, fluffy, cozy (and even, now, fashionable!), we Aussies love our Ugg Boots. After all, we invented them and knew of their snuggly goodness far before they became the footwear of choice for supermodels.
A good pair of genuine sheepskin uggs or moccasins should last many years, but they do need special care. So if yours are looking or smelling a bit unloved, here's how to help.&n...
Warm, fluffy, cozy (and even, now, fashionable!), we Aussies love our Ugg Boots. After all, we invented them and knew of their snuggly goodness far before they became the footwear of choice for supermodels.
A good pair of genuine sheepskin uggs or moccasins should last many years, but they do need special care. So if yours are looking or smelling a bit unloved, here's how to help. NOTE: never put sheepskin boots in the washing machine!
1. Protect
Buy an ugg boot protector where you get your uggs (or buy online, ebay is a good place to start).
This will help prevent many of the stains life in Uggs can bring, and prevent "intensive" cleaning being necessary (a quick wipe with a damp sponge should do the trick).
2. Clean and care
Eventually however, all uggs and moccies start looking a little worn and stained. To assist, you'll need to purchase specific sheepskin cleaning products, either Ugg brand (which are at stores or ebay) or another brand like this.
3. Dampen
Lightly dampen boots with clean water and a sponge. Apply a small amount of cleaner to the wet sponge. Gently scrub the surface of the boot. When finished, use a clean, damp sponge to remove excess residue.
4. Stuff and stand
Stuff boots with newspaper to speed up the drying process and help them keep their shape. Let boots dry naturally for at least 24 hours in a cool, ventilated space. Avoid direct sunlight or heat.
5. Protect again!
Once dry, re-apply your protective spray once again.
6. Deodorise
Deodorise the inside of your boots with either an ugg-boot deodoriser, or, if you prefer a natural touch Bosisto's Tea Tree Spray is perfect for the job. It's a natural antifungal and germ-killer to keep bacteria at bay - and your boots smelling fresh.
(NOTE: it's also great for spraying your shoe closet in general, especially after your gym shoes go in there).
7. Brush
Once the protective spray is dry, take a suede brush and lightly brush your uggs in one direction to help them look their best. Now, you can put your feet up in style!
Baby it's cold outside - but stop before you reach for the central heating remote. Every degree you hike it up above 18 degrees uses 10% more energy. Try these tactics instead, and you'll find your house (and you) are warmer, naturally.
1. Check your heating system
Gas heaters need to be professionally serviced every two years (or immediately if there’s any sign of troubl...
Baby it's cold outside - but stop before you reach for the central heating remote. Every degree you hike it up above 18 degrees uses 10% more energy. Try these tactics instead, and you'll find your house (and you) are warmer, naturally.
1. Check your heating system
Gas heaters need to be professionally serviced every two years (or immediately if there’s any sign of trouble). In between you should regularly clean and vacuum the filters and ducts around your home to reduce odours and fumes. It's a small investment in time which can make a huge difference to the efficiency of your heating system.
Here’s a good article from Energy Australia on DIY duct cleaning: http://www.energyaustralia.com.au/residential/electricity-and-gas/moving-house/how-to-clean-a-ducted-heating-system
Wood heaters and flues should also be serviced regularly, and neglecting these can be a fire risk. Some more tips for indoor wood heaters:
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for lighting, fuelling and operating the wood heater.
Use paper or kindling wood to get the fire started.
Only use dry, seasoned wood.
Arrange the wood so plenty of air can flow around all sides.
Always leave the air control open for at least 20 minutes after starting or refuelling the fire.
Do not overfill the heater or try to burn logs that are too large.
Keep combustible materials, such as overhanging tree branches, well clear of flues
2. Plug those draughts!
Draughty windows and doors leaking in cold air are like your house having holes in it’s winter coat. Don't let your hard earned energy escape through cracks and gaps.
Use draught tape to seal any gaps and make sure windows are covered by pelmets or curtains.
For the cracks at the bottom of doors, don’t forget the good old door snake. There are hundreds of wonderful designs out there, or, make your own!
3. Open curtains during the day
As the days are getting longer and lighter, open curtains to let the sunlight warm your home, then close them in the evening to trap heat in.
4. Rug up
There are some truly ridiculous lounge clothes out there (Snuggy, anyone?) but you don't have to go to those lengths. It's equally foolish wearing a t-shirt indoors in a 26 degree centrally-heated loungeroom. It's winter, and it's more efficient to heat yourself than an entire home. So pull out your jumpers, ugg boots, fluffy rugs and blankets for lounging around watching telly. Even an electric blanket under you on the couch is a lot more energy efficient than running a heater.
A beanie and fingerless gloves are a great idea for working and doing chores around the home, preventing ears and fingers getting chilly (two of the areas that feel the chill the most).
5. Invest in a bathroom heat lamp
Don't want to get out of the hot shower because it just feels SOOOOO good? You're only human! But staying under the shower uses up 20 times more energy than hopping out and getting warm under a heat lamp or two instead, so try and resist no matter how enjoyable it is! It really is money down the drain. If your showers are getting longer and longer in winter and you can't afford heat lamps, consider a hot bath instead. Quick showers are generally better for water saving but that's only if they're 10 minutes or less.
6. Give vents the all clear
Move furniture and other items away from your heating vents so they can deliver all that heat you're paying for. And don't forget to use your system efficiently with zoning (if you have the ability) heating only the areas of the house you need to, not the ones you don't.
If you're gifted with the ability to fall asleep immediately as your head hits the pillow and don't wake up until your alarm in the morning - you need read no further. The rest of us? We're the ones who are woken in the night by thoughts like: "I forgot to put capsicum on the shopping list", and end up in a place that's totally irrational - "My friend didn't answer my text this a...
If you're gifted with the ability to fall asleep immediately as your head hits the pillow and don't wake up until your alarm in the morning - you need read no further. The rest of us? We're the ones who are woken in the night by thoughts like: "I forgot to put capsicum on the shopping list", and end up in a place that's totally irrational - "My friend didn't answer my text this afternoon, does this mean she hates me?"
It's a mental thought loop which can continue for hours, exhausting you both physcially and mentally the next day.
Fortunately there are some strategies you can use to relax which don't involve reaching for your phone at 3am.
1. Acknowledge (most of) your worries are absurd.
There is nothing like the pitch-black silence of the middle of the night to make us see things in a totally irrational light. Night-time doesn't offer the distractions that daytime does (such as other people, activity, and work) so our minds can easily go into overdrive unless we are careful. If you look back to the thought-loops you've experienced during insomnia episodes, you can see that it's very different from the way you think in the light of day. Remind yourself that no matter how bad the problem seems, the morning always brings a fresh perspective.
2. Write it down
If you come up with a million things to put on your to-do list while you're wide awake at night, simply write it down. Keep an old-school notebook and pen on your bedside table, so you don't whip out your phone and go down the social media rabbit hole. There's nothing like dumping out your mind, including any midnight inspiration and ideas, to feel instantly calmer.
3. Take a deep breath
Once you've acknowleged the illogical nature of your worries and/or emptied your mind onto paper, the next step is to use your breath and visualisation to calm down. Counting sheep is a little passe, but if it works for you, great. There are lots of techniques around on the internet, so you might have to try a few to find something that works for you. This is quite a simple one from The Sleep Revolution by Arianna Huffington: Picture a tranquil lake (or another scene that makes you feel peaceful) and take 25 deep breaths in and out.
4. Remind yourself you'll be OK.
This might just be the most powerful sleep hack of them all. Ask yourself: "What's the worst that can happen if I lose some sleep?". You feel tired the next day. Just like those irrational worries, in the middle of the night sleep seems desperately important, and the implications of a poor nights sleep seem diabolical. In reality, the world will go on and your panic is over nothing. Nothing that bad will happen if you only catch a few zzz's. You'll be a bit tired, that's all. You will live, you'll buy a large coffee and go to sleep earlier the next night.
If you're worried about work or what people will think if you cancel plans, try the truth. You might be surprised how well people take it when you say "I haven't been sleeping well. I was awake at an ungodly hour last night. I don't think I can function today/ make it tonight". People get it. They've probably been there themselves. It happens.
Ironically, when you stop worrying about going to sleep, you're more likely to fall asleep (but don't rely on this - it's just an added bonus if it happens). At the very least you'll lie there peacefully, and experts agree this kind of peaceful rest is almost as good as being asleep.
5. Exercise
Countless studies on the impacts of long-term exercise have shown that adults with insomnia fall asleep more quickly, sleep longer, and have better quality sleep if they exercise. The exercise doesn't have to be vigorous either - walking seems to be the best. It's thought that exercise positively impacts the body's circadian rhythms (the internal body clock that helps us sleep) which can be out of whack in those with sleep issues. Exercise also allows us to better regulate levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, which can help quiet that mind-chatter. But if you start an exercise program be patient - it can take several months before you see a significant impact.
6. Lavender
The effect of lavender essential oil on sleep is well documented. It works on the olfactory system in the brain - where smell is linked to emotions - to help soothe, calm and relax. Try using a quality lavender blend in your bath to wind down or in the bedroom at night: sprinkle some on your pillow before sleep, or on a tissue tucked under your pillow. Sniff this during the night when you wake. Alternatively you can spray your bedroom and pillow with Bosisto's Lavender Spray or Bosisto's Sleep Aroma Mist, which is a blend of lavender and chamomile oils.
Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional.
Head lice. Two words on a school or daycare notice to strike fear into the heart of any parent. Just one critter the size of a pin head can mean hours of applying smelly chemicals, combing impossible tangles and of course, endless whinging.
Head lice have been around since pretty much the beginning of civilisation (they appear in Ancient Egyptian art) and they’re n...
Head lice. Two words on a school or daycare notice to strike fear into the heart of any parent. Just one critter the size of a pin head can mean hours of applying smelly chemicals, combing impossible tangles and of course, endless whinging.
Head lice have been around since pretty much the beginning of civilisation (they appear in Ancient Egyptian art) and they’re not going anywhere, infesting up to 35% of 4-11 year old Australian school children every year. This immortal parasite is a hardy little species, figuring out how to become immune to many of the chemical treatments on the market.
And naturally, an outbreak will always happen when it’s most inconvenient. 15 children coming to your house that day for a party? Heading off on holidays? Important meeting at work you can’t miss? That’s when you’ll notice the can’t-be-ignored scratching of heads and those dreaded white dots nestling in the hairline.
But now there’s a lifesaver so beautifully simple and easy it must have been a busy mum who thought of it. Blitz Nitz Spray & Go.
Spray & Go is different from other head lice treatments, because it doesn’t require kids to sit still with product in their hair and a towel around their shoulders. It’s simply sprayed on, like a conditioning de-tangler, left on hair for 5 hours or more, then washed out when the child has a bath or shower.
While life goes on (or sleep happens) Blitz Nitz Spray & Go works its magic.
It kills head lice and eggs with a natural, essential-oil based formula - and it’s clinically proven, so you know it really gets the job done.
It’s an ingenious solution which means life doesn’t stop while you treat nits.
Spray it on your child’s hair before day care and put it up in a plait – she can play all day with friends and you can wash out those pesky critters in the bath that night. Or, pop it on your child’s hair before bed, let them sleep on an old pillowcase or towel and in the morning – nits gone, and washed out in the shower.
If you find nits in the morning, kids can even go to school that day since most schools only require that you have begun treatment. Spray, and go on with your day. Genius.
Unlike many lice treatments, Blitz Nitz isn’t unpleasantly smelly. Its formula includes lovely botanical extracts such as argan kernel and grapeseed oils: it’s nourishing, and especially great for little girls with long, hard to manage hair.
Blitz Nitz Spray & Go might even thwart those clever ‘super lice’; its action is physical (the ‘suffocation’ method) not chemical (killing lice by pesticides) so lice may find it harder to biologically adapt and form an immunity.
It’s also kind on sensitive skin which is great for little scalps, and mum’s hands!
So if you don’t have time to stop your busy life for head lice, grab clinically proven Blitz Nitz Spray & Go. It’s available at Chemist Warehouse, $12.69 (normal RRP $14.95). The Euky Bear Blitz Nitz range is proudly 100% Australian made & owned.
For more info on the full Blitz Nitz head lice program, visit www.blitznitz.com.au.
Keeping your house clean can seem like an uphill battle but there’s ways to cheat the system – if you can get into these habits. Check these out.
1. Do a load of washing every morning.
Be proactive: put a load of clothes in the wash when you first get up, and once you’ve had breakfast pop them in the dryer. Doing this regularly every day will mean it won’t build...
Keeping your house clean can seem like an uphill battle but there’s ways to cheat the system – if you can get into these habits. Check these out.
1. Do a load of washing every morning.
Be proactive: put a load of clothes in the wash when you first get up, and once you’ve had breakfast pop them in the dryer. Doing this regularly every day will mean it won’t build up and you’ll spend less time on the weekend buried in laundry.
2. Take your shoes off
Encourage everyone in the home to do this, and it can save you hours of vacuuming and mopping every month.
3. Wipe down kitchen work tops every evening.
A quick wipe down before retiring will prevent food, dirt and grime from sticking to the surfaces. Simple!
4. Get rid of stuff you don’t need
Do yourself a favour: get rid of anything you don’t need and give it to charity. A great idea is to have a ‘charity bag’ in each household member’s wardrobe. As you realise they’ve grown out of an item of clothing or shoes, it goes into the charity bag. When the bag’s full, donate it. Ongoing wardrobe culling like this prevents having to do a huge one later.
5. Use vinegar to clean sinks and toilets
Vinegar is a great cleaning substance that won’t break the bank. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil for a more refreshing scent and odour-beating qualities.
6. Use hooks.
Hooks are a great way to keep clutter up and out of the way – use them for keys, school bags, coats, on the back of doors to hang organisers and dressing gowns.
7. Organise your ironing
If you have a mountain of ironing to do, put it in different piles depending on the type of fabric. That way you won’t have to adjust the settings on your iron back and forth. Result!
8. Clean your oven while you sleep
Fill up a bowl with ½ cup of ammonia and place into a (completely cold) oven. Let it do its thing overnight and then wipe the oven clean the next morning.
9. Wash up while you cook
This is a great time saver. Fill up the sink while you’re cooking and wash dishes as you go. Larger items can soak during dinner and finish up the plates and cutlery afterwards.
10. Protect carpets with newsletter
This one might sound obvious but you’ll be surprised how many people let dirty, muddy shoes dry on the carpet. Always place some newspaper first to protect the floor.
11. Ditch the air freshener
Use eucalyptus spray instead. It’s not only healthier for your family, with no synthetic perfumes and chemicals, the aroma lingers for ages. Keep a can in the toilets and near each indoor bin. It kills germs too – bonus!
12. Banish coffee mug stains
Use baking soda to get rid of coffee mug stains (careful on varnished wood)
13. Think 'inside the box'
Good storage solutions can make the difference between a house of chaos and a house that’s a breeze to tidy. The simplest way to start is by getting storage boxes. Put things in them which normally lay around cluttering the room – newspapers, DVD’s, toys. Whatever it is, it’s better in a box than loose on the floor.
14. Sanitise your sponges
Haven’t tried this yet? Give it a go. Put your cleaning sponges in the microwave for 1 minute, or run them through the dishwasher to get rid of germs.
15. Get the kids involved
Inspiring your kids to clean their own messes is the holy grail. Initially, it’s a hassle, but the effort will pay off. Organise daily bedroom inspections where you award a small prize for children who have kept their room neat and tidy. Or try the good old fashioned sticker chart with a bigger reward at the end of 7 days of neat play areas. (Tip: get your kids - if they're old enough - to devise their own reward system, including making the chart, picking the rewards and choosing the stickers. They'll be more invested.)
16. Keep on top of bin odours
Put a cotton wool ball soaked in eucalyptus or tea tree oil in the base of your bins for a long lasting fresh aroma.
17. Re-arrange the sofa cushions
It’s the quickest way to keep the lounge looking tidy every single day.
18. Use a shower cleaning spray
… while you’re in the shower. It’ll cut down on cleaning time and stay on top of grime and mould. We love this non-toxic version: 1 cup vinegar, 1 cup water and 2-4 capfuls of eucalyptus oil in a spray bottle. Shake and spray!
19. Get a system for notes & bills
Open mail and deal with it as soon as you get in. Sign notes & put in bags, open and file bills and dispose of rubbish and unwanted catalogues. A clean, uncluttered kitchen bench is the result!
20. Invest in a good vacuum cleaner
It’s one purchase you’ll never regret. Do your research and choose a brand with the features you need and great suction. It’ll save you time going over and over patches of floor that aren’t clean, and might even allow you to vacuum less often. Win!
Bosisto’s wishes to credit "Stay At Home Mum" for the original article (some content adapted).
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Bundle includes:
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3 x Sugar Free Drops
2 x Honey & Lemon Throat Spray
$48.27
These are a wonderfully cheap and eco-friendly alternative to helping keep your toilet clean.
You’ll need:
1 and 1/3 cups of baking soda
½ cup citric acid. (You can find this in the cooking aisle of the supermarket)
80-90 drops of essential oil. Bosisto’s Tea Tree Oil is recommended due to its antibacterial and freshening properties.
Small amount of water
Small sp...
These are a wonderfully cheap and eco-friendly alternative to helping keep your toilet clean.
You’ll need:
1 and 1/3 cups of baking soda
½ cup citric acid. (You can find this in the cooking aisle of the supermarket)
80-90 drops of essential oil. Bosisto’s Tea Tree Oil is recommended due to its antibacterial and freshening properties.
Small amount of water
Small spray bottle
Silicone moulds
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, add the baking soda and citric acid. Using a fork, flatten out any lumps. Slowly mix in, a few drops at a time, the essential oils. Don’t add it all at once, or the mixture will start fizzing. If you finish adding the oils and the mixture isn’t damp enough to form a ball when squeezed, you may need to spritz the mixture with some water. Don’t make the mix too moist through as they won’t fizz when you need them to.
Place into a silicone mould, pressing firmly. They do tend to expand a little bit so don’t overfill the mould. If you don’t have moulds you can just roll a half a teaspoon of the mixture into a ball and place on a baking tray.
Leave fizzies to dry for at least 6 hours. Once they are fully dry you can store them in an airtight container or jar (keep out of reach of children).
Drop one in the toilet bowl whenever you like. These are safe to use in any type of toilet or system and are septic-system friendly.
Makes approx. 24
(Bosisto’s would like to credit Stay at Home Mum website, stayathomemum.com.au, for this recipe inspiration)
The low-down on feng shui: it’s an ancient philosophy developed over 3,000 years ago in China which focuses on the ‘balance’ of energy within a space. The idea is to harness the five elements – wood, fire, earth, metal and water – to fill your living space with positive energy and peace. So if you feel like the energy in your home is ‘stuck’, here are some practical tips ...
The low-down on feng shui: it’s an ancient philosophy developed over 3,000 years ago in China which focuses on the ‘balance’ of energy within a space. The idea is to harness the five elements – wood, fire, earth, metal and water – to fill your living space with positive energy and peace. So if you feel like the energy in your home is ‘stuck’, here are some practical tips that might help.
Bring nature in
Whether it’s a small succulent garden or an towering indoor plant, nature helps de-stress and aids in relaxation. Rocks from a favourite place, plants or water sources are all great feng shui for a room. A small plant of “Lucky bamboo” is excellent for a work desk (place in the East facing corner if possible).
Dust and clear clutter
Dusty and dirty surfaces and objects are harmful or ‘bad’ feng shui. And clutter creates too much metal energy and this is bad for focus. A wonderful idea to reduce clutter is to always throw out or donate something old whenever something new is purchased. Removing unwanted, unused items (especially if they’re dusty- looking at you, exercise equipment) is one of the fastest ways to improve a room’s energy.
Clean your mirrors and windows
Out of all the things you need to clean in your home, the ones that will give you best bang for your buck, in terms of good feng shui, are mirrors and windows. Feng Shui considers windows to be your eyes and mirrors to be what carries energy throughout your home. These are two avenues you want to keep clear for a positive living experience.
TIP: mirrors should never reflect the following: doors and windows, your bed, a toilet, another mirror, sharp corners, dirty, cluttered or unpleasant views and they should never cut the head off the tallest member of the family.
Let there be light
Dark, unlit areas of the home create negative energy. Popping a lamp in a corner of a room, or a skylight in a dark area can instantly invite a more refreshing energy. Also open curtains and windows at every opportunity.
Close your toilet lids
Drains can carry away your “chi” (or life force) and the toilet is the most important one, according to feng shui philosophy. There’s a great excuse to tell the men in your life – close the toilet lid, you’re affecting my chi!
Add ‘lucky’ items
So you’ve cleaned, de-cluttered, added some plants and trained hubby to close the lid – what next? Some traditional Chinese luck charms can help, with protection from bad energies and inviting good energy in. Look out for items of décor including:
Chinese dragon – the ultimate feng shui luck talisman
A golden elephant statue, or a pair of chinese lions or ‘Fu Dogs’ – traditionals symbol of wealth and luck
A feng shui bagua mirror – place it anywhere you want to deflect negativity
A tortoise – this is one of the four divine or celestial animals, in feng shui (the others are the dragon, a white tiger and a fire phoenix, a type of bird)
A feng shui lucky cat (Maneki Neko) – sold in $2 shops, they often ‘wave’ their paws, very cute!
Chinese coins – try placing them under your doormat to invite money in.
Red and gold are lucky colours, try adding touches here and there with curhions, placemats or vases.
Finishing touch… use your scents
Essential oils are basically the essence, or ‘life force’ of a plant, so it makes sense that they can create good feng shui energy. But you do need to choose a good quality, pure, therapeutic-grade oil – cheap synthetic scents and watered down blends won’t have the same effect, and in fact can pollute the space versus creating good healing energy. Look for “100% pure” on the label and do your research as to what variety is best.
Lavender is the number one choice of essential oils for feng shui purely because of its beautifully calming energy, and is perfect for the bedroom. In living areas and in the office, fresher scents like eucalyptus, peppermint and citrus scents can encourage a more lively energy, conversation and mental alertness.
You can use an electric oil burner/diffuser (with care, read the instructions) to enjoy the scent of your choice, or you can add a few drops to your cleaning or personal care (bath & body) products, or to a spray bottle of water and spritz around your space as needed. Bosisto’s also make pure essential oil sprays – the ultimate in convenience for an instant feng shui boost.
Dust – urgh. What is it, and where does it all come from? You might be mildly disgusted to discover it’s made up of human (and pet) skin cells, hair, textile fibres, mineral deposits, pollen and soil from outside, mould spores, chemical residue and lots of other nasties including bacteria and dust mites.
Ready to get stuck in to cleaning now?
Well let’s be smart about...
Dust – urgh. What is it, and where does it all come from? You might be mildly disgusted to discover it’s made up of human (and pet) skin cells, hair, textile fibres, mineral deposits, pollen and soil from outside, mould spores, chemical residue and lots of other nasties including bacteria and dust mites.
Ready to get stuck in to cleaning now?
Well let’s be smart about it – here are ten quick tips that will cut your cleaning time yet won’t affect the outcome of the task.
1. Ceiling fans and fixtures
Use a bendable duster and you won’t need a ladder. But, if you don’t have one, a pillowcase will also do the trick (see here)
2. Corners and door frames
Spider webs and dust can accumulate here. Grab a mop pole and an old sport sock, flip the sock inside out and voila… you’ve got an amazing high-duster! Or, you can use a microfiber cloth and a rubber band, if you have one.
3. Walls
Who dusts their walls? Well, you’d be surprised how dusty they actually get. Use a flat head mop when it’s dry, and work it up and down using a ‘W’ pattern to save time and energy to ensure you are covering the entire space.
4. Bathroom vents
These get super dusty! They run a long time and suck up a lot of dust. The next time you’re cleaning, use your vacuum with a brush attachment to suck up the dust.
5. Under the fridge
Dust and all sorts of grime can gather under here, which isn’t great if your home has allergy sufferers. Use your trick with the mop pole and a cloth or old sock from tip 2. If it’s especially gunky under there, it might be worth using a damp cloth or sock with a bit of eucalyptus oil or solution on it. Eucalyptus oil kills dust mites so it’s two birds with one stone.
6. Delicate items
To clean ornaments, antique pieces, silk flowers or small delicate trinkets, use a small paintbush!
7. Dust in the right direction
Dust is like snow; it falls from the top to the bottom. So, when dusting, start with the highest items and work your way down to the lowest. Another good thing to keep in mind is to work in a spiral formation – working clockwise tackle all four corners and mouldings, then move down and dust all the tops of frames etc., lower again to dust all the table tops and finally all baseboards. Then vacuum. This allows no dust to fall on an already cleaned area.
8. Use microfiber cloths
A microfiber cloth is electrostatically charged, meaning it literally attracts dust. It is also highly absorbent so it can last longer during your cleaning task. They won’t leave lint or dust behind and leave surfaces streak-free.
9. Clean your ducts every 5 years
They’re a huge source of dust and allergens. If you have had renovations recently or have lived in the house after someone else has, cleaning your vents is the ultimate form of dusting. Get a professional to do it – this isn’t a DIY job.
10. Vacuuming under things
Worried about vacuuming under a cabinet or dresser drawer you can’t see under, in case you suck up something valuable? Vacuum with a pantyhose covered dust brush
Thanks to Clean My Space for the original article inspiration.
After 164 years in essential oils, we like keeping things fresh at Bosisto’s. That’s why we’ve introduced a brand new oil to our core range – Peppermint! Known as “nature’s oldest medicine” the extract of the peppermint leaf, or Mentha Piperata is very popular with essential oils fans - and now it’s available from your favourite brand.
Bosisto’s does...
After 164 years in essential oils, we like keeping things fresh at Bosisto’s. That’s why we’ve introduced a brand new oil to our core range – Peppermint! Known as “nature’s oldest medicine” the extract of the peppermint leaf, or Mentha Piperata is very popular with essential oils fans - and now it’s available from your favourite brand.
Bosisto’s doesn’t have hundreds of varieties of oils, and that’s because what we do, we like to do well. So just like our famous ‘Parrot brand’ Eucalyptus, our Tea Tree and our pure Lavender oils, our Peppermint is the best quality money can buy. So let’s find out what you can do with it…
Nausea & travel sickness
Peppermint is wonderful for nausea relief, as anyone who has eaten mints on a long journey will attest! Add 2-4 drops to a glass of warm water and drink to help ease mild nausea; alternatively spray the peppermint spray into the air or on a tissue and inhale the aroma for instant temporary relief – great for keeping in the car glove box or carry-on travel luggage.
Note: Peppermint spray is not a mouth spray – do not ingest.
Indigestion
With its anti-spasmodic effect, indigestion, bloating, excessive flatulence and even irritable bowel syndrome symptoms can be eased with peppermint oil. As above, drinking a few drops in some warm water is the best way to get the benefits. Try massaging onto your lower stomach to ease discomfort from wind.
Insects & pests
Anecodal evidence says many pests, including cockroaches, spiders and mice (and even larger pests like snakes and geckos) dislike peppermint oil. A few drops on a cotton wool ball, or sprayed around doorways or cracks where pests are getting in may help as a deterrent.
Tension headache
The fresh aroma can ease headaches and help mental alertness. Try rubbing a drop or two onto temples (no-where near your eyes) to help focus when studying or at work. Repeat as required.
Nasal & chest congestion
Just like eucalyptus, peppermint has a clearing effect on congestion. Add 3-4 drops to a bowl of warm water and inhale the steam, or spray the Peppermint Spray around and inhale for relief.
DIY beauty & home products
There are lots of recipes on the internet for making your own soaps, air fresheners, cosmetics, bath and beauty products using peppermint essential oil. With its natural cooling, deodorising and freshening abilities, it’s especially good in soaps, foot scrubs and body moisturisers.
Aches & pains
Massage a few drops into aching joints for temporary relief of mild arthritis and rheumatism. Repeat every 3-4 hours.
Freshening around the home
Spray into bins, musty drawers or anywhere around the home that needs freshening. It’s particularly good for gym gear and shoes!
Bosisto’s Peppermint Oil is available in a 25mL dropper bottle and a handy 30g travel size spray is now available to purchase at our online store, or from selected pharmacies (including Chemist Warehouse - Spray only).
Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional.
Kids can get messy and where there's messy kids, there's often messy toys! Cleaning items that come from a toy library, op shop or donated by friends and relatives is often a good idea, too (as is sanitising after play dates, or illness).
Here's our best tips to handle some of the most common grubby toy dilemmas.
Bath toys
Once bath toys get mould in them, it's very difficul...
Kids can get messy and where there's messy kids, there's often messy toys! Cleaning items that come from a toy library, op shop or donated by friends and relatives is often a good idea, too (as is sanitising after play dates, or illness).
Here's our best tips to handle some of the most common grubby toy dilemmas.
Bath toys
Once bath toys get mould in them, it's very difficult to get it out. So, prevention is much better than the cure. Raid hubby's shed and block the holes in your toys with waterproof silicon - make sureyou press it right in so little mouths can't get it. Invest in a bath net or another toy holder with drainage. You can buy seriously fancy ones, but as a cheap option you could even use one of those orange net bags that you buy oranges in. Afer every bath, squeeze as much water out of the toys as possible and place in the bag to drain further.
However, if your toys already have mould try this: get a bucket of nice hot soapy water and first give them a good wash on the outside. Then, place them in a bucket of fresh water with 3 cups of white vinegar and 4 capfuls of Bosisto's Tea Tree Oil. Make sure you sqeeze them so they soak up some of the vinegar/ essential oil water. Leave overnight, then shake well, squeeze empty and rinse in clean water. Drying/ airing out in the sun can also help - do this regularly (perhaps each time you clean the bath, for a few hours) to help prevent mould.
Plastic toys and blocks (without electronics)
Everyday grime on plastic toys is easily wiped away using a cloth (like a Chux) dampened with water, and a few drops of eucalyptus oil. For really grotty toys (perhaps those ones forgotten about in the shed!) Try soaking in a bucket with 2-4 capfuls of Bosisto's Eucalyptus Solution.
Another great way to clean plastic toys is to pop them in the dishwasher - add a few drops of eucalyptus oil instead of a dishwashing tablet and away you go! The hot water will help kill any bugs, too.
Stuffed toys
Believe it or not, most soft toys and dolls are machine washable. Just pop them in a pillowcase, and wash on a gentle cycle (add Bosisto's Dust Mite Wash to help kill dust mites). Of course don't wash something particularly delicate or antique - they need specialist care (google: Toy repairs). Very large plush toys can be washed by opening a bottom seam and removing the stuffing, washing the fur on gentle, then carefully re-stiching.
Worried about dust mites on toys but can't or don't want to wash them? Just spray with Bosisto's Dust Mite Spray - it's a natural formula based on eucalyptus oil which can help kill dust mites. It's great for couches and curtains too.
Sticky glue, paint and texta on craft tables
Eucalyptus oil! Soak a cloth in the oil and apply to the surface to help remove little Picasso's spills. Be careful on polished or varnished surfaces, patch test first.
Hard cover books, plus pretty much everything
Baby wipes are a godsend for food spills, dribble and general girme on just about anything - except mobile phones and tech (see below)
Phones, TV screens remotes and tablets
Let's face it, the definition of kids toys has changed these days and must include portable technology devices including DS, playstation remotes, phones, tablets, and other educational tech. As a general rule if it has a screen or electronics, don't use water or products not recommended by the manufacturer. Most phone and tablet screens can be cleaned with a soft, lint-free microfibre cloth. Consult your user manual or the product's distributor for further cleaning instructions.
One of eucalyptus oil's most famous uses - and often the first one that springs to mind - is to remove sticky labels. But have you ever wondered how it does it?
Eucalyptus oil contains many unique natural compounds, and one of its characteristics is that it is a strong natural solvent.
It has the ability to break down 'sticky' bonds and dissolve grease. As such it's often us...
One of eucalyptus oil's most famous uses - and often the first one that springs to mind - is to remove sticky labels. But have you ever wondered how it does it?
Eucalyptus oil contains many unique natural compounds, and one of its characteristics is that it is a strong natural solvent.
It has the ability to break down 'sticky' bonds and dissolve grease. As such it's often used in cleaning products - and in it's pure or spray form, is a very handy little helper to have around the house. Here's just a few of the sticky situations it can help you out of...
1. Chewing gum
Whether it's in a child's hair, stuck in carpet or on the bottom of a shoe, chewing gum anywhere it shouldn't be is a nightmare. To try releasing it (gently) from the child's hair, soak the strands connected to the gum in Bosisto's Eucalyptus Oil and gently slide it off. For chewing gum attached to fabric, shoes or other items, scrape as much off as possible then clean up any residue with a cloth soaked in eucalyptus. This also works for blu tack residue on walls, doors and furniture (always patch test on varnished or painted surfaces first).
2. Adhesive labels and sticker residue
Ever bought a gift for someone and tried to peel off the price sticker, only to find it's left unsightly bits of paper and residue? Eucalyptus oil to the rescue. Peel off as much of the sticker as you're able, then press the area with a cloth or cotton ball soaked with eucalyptus oil. Leave the oil to start to dissolve the bonds for a few minutes then simply scrape the residue off, being careful not to scratch your item. Repeat until all residue is gone.
This also works for old sticky tape residue, and to remove extra residue from jam jars after soaking the labels off.
3. Greasy clothes
Splashed oil on your good jeans? Spilled bacon down your front? Hubby been working on the car? Grease stains are a eucalyptus oil specialty. Use it in a spray version as a pre-wash (or, try a eucalyptus based pre-wash like this). Then pop two capfuls of eucalyptus oil in your wash (on a warm or hot cycle) to lift stubborn grease marks. For stubborn stains, soak in a bucket with 2 capfuls of eucalyptus and 1 scoop of laundry powder, mixed with warm water for a few hours prior to washing. It leaves everything smelling divine, too.
4. Craft clean-up
Eucalyptus oil is great for mopping up blobs, smears and spills from crafting activities - it helps clean up most glue residue, water-based and acrylic paint and can help clean art tools like brushes, scissors and scalpels.
5. Tar (and other stuff with cars)
You can remove tar marks from the paintwork of cars by rubbing the area with a cloth moistened with eucalyptus oil (patch test on an inconspicuous area of the paintwork first). Driveway stains can be treated with hot soapy water mixed with a few capfuls of eucalyptus oil - use a scrubbing brush to clean the affected area then rinse. Eucalyptus oil can even be used to clean dirt and debris (for example, insect residue) left on car windscreens prior to washing. Plus, it's great for cleaning your own hands if you've got petrol, oil or grease on them after car maintenance.
