All Black+Decker weed whackers are electric models (corded or battery operated), so there are fewer moving parts to worry about compared to gas-powered weed whackers. This makes them relatively quick and easy to clean and maintain. To ensure the longevity of your tool, it's best to do this after each use before the dirt or grass has a chance to dry out and harden.
Typically all you need is a cloth and warm, soapy water. If you let the herbicide sit for a while, you can also use a soft-bristled hand brush. It is important to avoid strong cleaners, harsh chemicals or solvents that can attack and damage plastic parts.
The easy cleaning process and helpful herbicide tips
Make sure the Black+Decker weed whacker is unplugged or the battery has been removed. You can then remove the spool with the cutting line. Typically you just squeeze the cover and then lift the roller to release it. However, you can find instructions in your user manual (or you can watch videos online). Take a damp cloth and gently wipe the bottom of the protector. Use a brush to get into corners or stubborn debris.
There's not much left to fix. If your Black+Decker weed whacker is height adjustable, you can open it fully to check for stuck-on dirt or grit that could cause unnecessary wear and tear. Do the same with the head when turning edges. For wired models, check the power cord for damage. If it is cracked, it must be replaced before reuse. Otherwise there is a risk of electric shock, which can be unpleasant but fatal.
Before assembling the wire coil, check its condition and whether it needs to be replaced. There is a useful tip that recommends soaking herbicide cord to prevent breakage that is worth investigating. Additionally, the next time you use your Black+Decker weed whacker, consider trying the counterclockwise mowing method to reduce the time you spend working in the yard.
and Claudette said that she did too, and that was the best way to do it. Tips for a successful order. GLAD, manufacturer of garbage bags and other cleaning products ...
Ketchup or wine in your favorite lid? Oil or fat splashes while cooking? You don't have to throw it away. Not with our handy stain removal tips using simple household items you probably already have on hand.
No matter what type of stain you're trying to remove, from blood and grass to wine, oil and more, there is hope beyond devotion to a new favorite piece of clothing. In fact, you can use this guide to remove almost any stain if you act quickly enough. The trick is in the process and the elements you use. Below is a complete list of tips and tricks you can follow.
A splash of cooking oil on your favorite outfit is no problem. Take cornstarch. The powder absorbs the fat.
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Oil and grease stains are difficult to remove, but not impossible. Apply some detergent to the stain and wash the garment according to the label instructions. For stubborn stains, you can also try a combination of dish soap and white vinegar.
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The method described below is trusted by numerous online consultants and only requires dishwashing liquid and baking soda. And remember that with oil and fat, time is of the essence. So tackle stains as soon as you notice them.
If there are any stains, first blot the mark and remove any excess material.
Apply a few drops of mild dish soap to the stain. Rub the soap in with clean fingers until the detergent completely covers the stain.
Next, apply a tablespoon of baking soda to the soap and rub it into the fabric for two minutes (for a more effective scrub, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush).
Once the mixture forms a paste, let the solution and the garment sit for an hour.
Rinse the garment in the sink and then machine wash it.
From talking fridges to iPhones, our experts are here to make the world a little easier.
How to remove grass stains from clothes
Parents of soccer players know very well how tough grass stains are.
Sean Justice/Getty Images
Grass stains are almost inevitable on children's clothing and can be difficult to remove. You may be able to machine wash them or use a stain remover. However, if that is not enough, here is a solution:
Soak the garment in a stain-reducing mixture for 30 minutes. You can use a solution of 2 cups of white vinegar or a mixture of dish soap and hydrogen peroxide.
Gently scrub the stain with a soft brush.
Thoroughly rinse the mixture from clothing with cold water.
Machine wash according to label.
How to remove blood stains from clothes
When it comes to blood stains, it's best to act quickly.
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Blood is very difficult to remove from clothing and may require multiple treatments. But when it's fresh, it's easier to remove, so act as quickly as possible. Here is a method:
As soon as you notice the stain, soak the stained item in cold water from the sink. (Make sure the water is cold, as hot water stimulates blood proteins to set the stain on the fabric.) If the stain is still very fresh, blot the excess stain with a paper towel or leave the garment even run under running water to remove it. as much as you can.
Cover the stain with a 20% hydrogen peroxide mixture (1 part hydrogen peroxide to 6 parts cold water) or apply a baking soda paste (2 parts baking soda to 1 part water).
Before machine washing, rinse the garment in cold water.
How to remove sweat stains from clothes
Sweat stains can be removed with a quarter cup of white vinegar and a cup of water.
Getty Images/Grace Carey
It's unfortunate, but it happens. Even in the hottest climates, you don't have to let sweat ruin your clothes with this method:
Prepare a solution of a quarter cup of white vinegar and a cup of water.
Dampen the sweat stain with the mixture or completely submerge the garment.
Allow the garment to soak for a full 30 minutes.
Rinse with cold water and machine wash.
How to remove coffee stains
Every coffee drinker will need these tips at some point.
Philipp Berezhnoy/Getty Images
I drink coffee like it's my job. I love it. But I really don't like the coffee stains that inevitably appear on my work jacket or favorite work pants when I'm rushing in the morning. How to remove these coffee stains:
Completely submerge the stained item in warm water.
Apply a mild laundry detergent or a diluted white vinegar mixture (a quarter cup of white vinegar to a cup of water) to the stain.
Machine wash at the highest temperature your garment allows.
How to remove red wine stains from clothes
A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon is a great pleasure in life...until it ends up on your favorite t-shirt.
goir/Getty Images
After a long night, you might be surprised to see red wine on your favorite collared blouse or shirt. Although it may seem dramatic, you can easily and effectively remove red wine stains:
Blot the stain with a paper towel to remove any excess.
Mix a solution of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and dish soap and apply the mixture lightly to the stain with your fingers.
Leave the solution on for 20 minutes to an hour before rinsing.
If you don't want to use hydrogen peroxide, you can apply white vinegar and dishwashing detergent and follow the steps listed above.
Diploma
Either way, a little effort and a little time will go a long way in keeping your clothes looking new. Remember not to put the garment in the dryer until the stain has completely disappeared (so that it does not harden) and repeat any of the above steps if necessary to remove the stains.
Does it matter how quickly I try to remove the stain from my clothing?
Yes. If you want to remove a stain from one of your favorite clothes, you need to act quickly, especially if you have problems with a grease or blood stain. Although the tips contained in this article are effective in combating these stains, their effectiveness decreases the longer a stain remains on the fabric of clothing.
Essential oils can make natural cleansing more enjoyable and effective, but improper use can reduce their benefits or even cause harm.
From forgetting to shake to combining it with bleach, our cleaning experts reveal eight of the most common mistakes to avoid.
Essential oil is the perfect addition to your ultimate cleaning product list and can do wonders for your cleansing routine if you avoid these common mistakes.
1. Labels are not read
(Image credit: Oleksandra Yagello via Getty Images)
Essential oils vary in strength and function. Failure to read the label may result in overuse or incorrect use.
Steven Ip, founder of Cleanzen Boston Cleaning Services , says, "Many consumers overlook the importance of reading labels when purchasing essential oils, which can lead them to choose products with harmful additives instead of pure organic oils decide."
"To ensure the safety of your family and pets, always choose organic essential oils. Look for brands that provide clear and transparent ingredient information, and check online if you're unsure.
Ip recommends Plant Therapy as a well-known brand, adding: " Plant Therapy organic rosemary oil is a great option, especially because of its natural antibacterial properties." »
Always check whether an oil is suitable for cleaning and follow dilution guidelines for safe use around pets, children and sensitive surfaces.
2. Do not dilute
(Image credit: Future/Punteha van Terheyden)
Essential oils are very concentrated and should never be used undiluted for cleaning.
Ip says: "Using essential oils in concentrated form can cause skin irritation and reduce their effectiveness. Essential oils should always be diluted with water, carrier oils (e.g. sweet almond or jojoba oil), or other suitable liquids before use.
Steve Evans, owner of Memphis Maids , adds: "Remember, this is a concentrate; You don't have to use too much. Using a pipette like this LANDNEOO glass pipette from Amazon can help you keep track of what you use.
Essential oils decompose when exposed to sunlight, heat or air.
Ip says: "Avoid putting essential oils in clear containers or exposing them to sunlight as this can affect their quality over time. It is best to store them in dark glass bottles to protect them from light and heat.
Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning , recommends these LiBa amber glass spray bottles from Amazon , adding, "The amber color maintains effectiveness while the spray nozzle allows for even application without damaging surfaces."
4. Rely solely on oils
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Although essential oils have natural antibacterial properties, they are not a substitute for stronger disinfectants. Use with other cleaning products to disinfect, especially in frequently touched areas. Essential oils can enhance cleansing, but should not be the only ingredient.
Will Cotter, owner of HappyCleans , says, "Use essential oils as a supplement to your cleansing routine, not as the main activity. Sure, oils like tea tree oil and lavender can disinfect and leave your space smelling fresh, but they often don't have the power to remove stubborn dirt or stains.
"Commercial cleaners can be used for intensive cleaning. For daily cleaning, it's best to combine oils with natural ingredients like vinegar and baking soda [both available on Amazon] for a much better effect.
To make an inexpensive but effective all-purpose cleaner, Cotter recommends a mixture of white vinegar, essential oil, and water. He says, "Mix one cup of water (tap water is fine, but distilled is better), one cup of white vinegar, and about 10 to 20 drops of your favorite essential oil in a spray bottle, depending on the concentration you want."
Cotter adds, "You can spray it on countertops, sinks and even bathroom tiles. Just be careful not to use it on natural stone surfaces like granite or marble, as vinegar may be too strong for them.
5. Forget shaking
Oil and water do not mix naturally.
Cotter says: "Although they make a great duo, oils and water don't mix naturally, meaning your cleaning solution may have uneven effectiveness. Some sprays may have full cleaning power, while others may consist of just water. Therefore shake well before use. It only takes a few seconds!
To help your essential oil cleaning spray mix better and adhere better to dirt and grease, add a few drops of dish soap, which acts as a surfactant and breaks surface tension to improve adhesion.
Not all essential oils are created equal. Poor quality oils often contain additives or synthetic fragrances, which reduce their cleaning power.
Cotter says: "Some of these budget brands may contain fillers or synthetic ingredients, so they have less cleaning power. You should definitely choose pure, high-quality oils from reputable sources. My favorite right now is this high-quality lemon essential oil from Young Living, available on Amazon . It's 100% pure, smells great and has natural antibacterial properties! »
The toner states: "Mixing essential oils with bleach, ammonia or other harsh cleaning products can produce toxic fumes. This can irritate the respiratory tract and is particularly dangerous in small, enclosed spaces.
"They prefer to opt for natural cleaning combinations, such as essential oils with baking soda for scrubbing or with vinegar for all-purpose cleaning. This maintains the effectiveness of both ingredients and prevents the formation of harmful fumes.
Toner recommends Arm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda from Walmart , adding, "This high-quality baking soda works well with essential oils for a non-toxic exfoliation and is suitable for sinks, countertops, and more."
8. Apply citrus oils to the core.
Citrus oils may seem harmless, but they can cause serious damage to some porous surfaces.
The toner states: "Citrus oils such as lemon and orange are acidic and can damage natural stone surfaces such as marble, granite or quartz by stripping and dulling them.
"For stone surfaces, use pH-neutral cleaners or acid-free essential oils such as lavender or tea tree diluted in water. They enable gentle cleaning without the risk of damaging the surface.
Toner recommends Weiman Granite Cleaner and Polish from Amazon , adding, "This cleaner specifically designed for stone can be applied with a small amount of lavender oil diluted in water for a fresh scent without acidity."
There you have it: Eight mistakes when cleaning with essential oils and what you should do instead. By avoiding these essential oil mistakes, you can create a safer, more effective cleaning routine that harnesses the natural power of these oils without damaging surfaces or reducing their effectiveness.
Now that this school semester is almost over, it's important to take a moment to make sure you're organized and prepared for a smooth, stress-free graduation.
As the holiday season approaches, it can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of Christmas preparations and lose track of what needs to be done before giving yourself a well-deserved break. Don't worry because with a little planning you can do everything without any problems. No panic! How to prepare for a stress-free graduation.
Clean and tidy
We all know the temptation to leave cleaning until the last minute, but trust us: nothing is worse than returning to a messy workspace on the first day of school. Imagine opening that drawer and being greeted by empty boxes, old envelopes and... a surprise! -a half-eaten KitKat that has been hidden since Halloween.
Take some time to organize and clean the things you no longer need. Not only will this make your workspace feel fresh and inviting, but you'll also have plenty of space for all the exciting new supplies you're bringing with you for the new year.
Synchronize your schedules
When preparing to relax, make sure your schedule aligns with everyone else's. It is important to note all important deadlines, meetings and appointments in your calendar. However, don't forget about other people's schedules that may impact your school's operations. When will your IT team and suppliers return from vacation?
If you expect to need help from someone who may not be available, it is advisable to have an alternative contact on hand. And if you need to book meetings for the New Year, it's best to do so now! After Christmas, everyone tends to jump straight into a whirlwind of post-holiday tasks, projects, and catch-ups. By securing these appointments in advance, you can ensure you receive the care and support you need without having to compete for everyone's limited availability in January.
Take a walk
Once everything is organized, closed, put away and put away or thrown away, take the opportunity to walk around your school and take notes while it is quiet and organized because as we all know, those hallways will be chaotic again. coming soon!
It's a great opportunity to see things you might not have otherwise noticed during the busy school period. As you walk through the halls, keep an eye out for areas that could use a little attention. Documenting these observations now will help you prioritize tasks for the month of January, especially those related to maintenance. By identifying these issues before students return, you can create a checklist of repairs or improvements that need to be addressed.
Prepare your equipment
If you plan to be out of the office during the holidays, it's important to keep your team updated on how the holiday season is going. Who will be on site to open the school if necessary? Which systems will continue to function?
Before you hit the Out of Office button, make sure your colleagues feel confident and prepared. This will help you avoid annoying phone calls asking for advice on what to do next. The last thing you want on your break is answering questions about where the Christmas decorations are kept!
Finally, take a deep breath – this year you really made it! With all his hard work and commitment, he has laid the foundation for another successful term. Now is the time to relax and enjoy the end of year celebrations to the fullest. So as you close your office door for the last time this quarter, don't forget to reflect on everything you've accomplished in the last year. Happy Holidays!
Let's face it, cleaning isn't always at the top of our list, and in most cases we want to get it done as quickly as possible.
There's always something to do, isn't there? From the top of the kitchen cabinets to the bottom of the pantry. We tend to stick with our tried-and-true methods and combinations of the same old products, but are we really making time-wasting cleaning mistakes?
We spoke to our top cleaning pros to ask them what they think are the biggest cleaning mistakes and how to replace them with effective methods - because let's face it, we should all clean our kitchens more thoroughly in the first place .
1. Not planning far enough in advance
(Image credit: Georgie Wykeham Designs / Tom St Aubyn)
We're all guilty of this: wanting to complete cleaning tasks as quickly as possible. However, if we invest a little time in planning ahead, we become much more efficient and motivated to do the cleaning .
Alessandro Gazzo, cleaning expert at Emily's Maids of Dallas , explains, "Failure to plan your cleaning routine is a cleaning mistake that makes your tasks more difficult. If you don't plan, you'll waste a lot more time because you'll jump from one task to the next, wasting extra time and energy.
What is the best way to proceed? "Spend five minutes mapping out the cleaning tasks, then the schedules for each task and the cleaning products you'll need," says Alessandro.
If you're looking to fit your cleaning tasks into a schedule, we love Paper's Italian Summer Productivity Planner , which comes in four colors and offers daily and monthly options.
2. Use rechargeable vacuum cleaners
(Image credit: Divins Sauvages)
Portable products are tempting, take up less space and are easier to maneuver. But they have a downside, explains Sabrina Fierman, director of Little Elves of New York : "One of the things that bothers our teams the most are rechargeable vacuum cleaners, which lack power and suction, requiring more cleaning time." and wait. »
Sabrina says: "I think the biggest cleaning mistakes are using the wrong products (abrasive cleaners or solutions that are too strong) that scratch or wear down the surfaces immediately or over time, or products that leave streaks and stains that are I particularly like Magic American Grout Cleaner for ceramics and porcelain stoneware .
Alessandro agrees and says that sometimes we make the mistake of applying a product and rubbing it in immediately (unless the instructions say otherwise). "Most cleaning products work chemically and not mechanically. That means you have to give it time and not necessarily rub and rub. You'll waste more time and energy and maybe even just scratch the surface.
Check out Alessandro's three favorite gentle cleansers below.
It's easy to get seduced by the long-lasting product that's supposed to clean "everything" in your home and make your life so much easier, but more often than not, it's a gimmick ( there are many that cleaning experts hate ) and it will get you convince. It doesn't work. T. Do what it says.
As a result, we have a closet full of promising products that are literally gathering dust. "Overcomplicating your pantry or cleaning basket makes the job more difficult," says Alessandro. "Time is wasted changing products, reading instructions, and sometimes even having to use additional supplies like sponges and towels. Limit yourself to all-purpose cleaners and no more than five cleaning products total.
This is a common problem that we are all guilty of: looking into the eyes and at ground level instead of looking up.
Forrest Webber, founder of Bear Brothers Cleaning, explains: "Starting with the floors is like drying yourself under water after a shower. All crumbs, dust and mysterious particles on the upper surfaces fall back. Instead, work from top to bottom: Start with shelves, counters, and the cobwebs in the corners that you pretend you don't see. Let gravity do its work so you only have to cover the floor once. Efficiency to win!'
Check out our three purchases to help you sheathe from ceiling to floor.
When it comes to cleaning, we generally want it done as quickly as possible, which means mistakes can happen.
"Another big mistake is not drying things completely so that the accessories are clean but not ruined by drying with water and leaving stains and streaks," says Sabrina.
To counteract this, give your accessories enough time to dry naturally or help them with a cloth. Glass cloths are a good option because they don't leave marks.
"A worker is only as good as his tools," goes the saying, and that couldn't be truer. It is extremely important that we take the time to clean the tools we use to clean.
"Dirty mops, dusty vacuums and dirty sponges are like using a dirty fork to stir soup: counterproductive and pretty gross," says Forrest. How do I get into the cleaning routine? At the end of your cleaning session, take five minutes to review each item.
"Wash microfiber cloths, rinse mop heads and empty vacuum cleaners regularly. A clean tool is like a happy colleague: productive and drama-free," he adds.
8. Excessive use of air fresheners and perfumes
(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)
There are perfumes and there are perfumes . Entering a freshly cleaned, elegantly scented home infused with natural scents is certainly invigorating, but waking up to a home that smells overwhelmingly of artificial air fresheners and electrical outlets is another matter that can also lead to health problems with air conditioning .
Forrest explains: "Spraying air fresheners everywhere to mask odors doesn't fool anyone. First, eliminate the source of the odor: clean the trash can, ventilate the room, and use baking soda if necessary. Then spritz on your favorite perfume. It's about getting some fresh air and not hiding the facts.
Light Anthropologie's Volcano candles throughout your home (synonymous with all of their stores) to create a fresh, invigorating scent.
Meet our experts
Alessandro Gazzo
Alessandro Gazzo is a cleaning expert working at Emily's Maids of Dallas who specializes in developing a healthier, greener and more efficient approach to home care. Alessandro has a passion for homemade cleaning products and believes in the power of natural and cost-effective solutions to keep homes spotless.
Sabrina Fierman
For 15 years, lifestyle and cleaning guru Sabrina Fierman has been the practice manager of Little Elves of New York, the leading luxury cleaning service in the New York metropolitan area.
Forrest Webber
Forrest Webber is an entrepreneur and founder of several companies, including Bear Brothers Cleaning and Fireplace Distributor.
Learn how to complete your cleaning tasks successfully and quickly without making the big mistakes we all make.
