Temperatures in Minnesota have started to rise, which means that many people are starting to think about hiking and camping gear for summer (as long as pandemic restrictions are relaxed). Thinking and acting are, of course, separate things: the fact is that it is easy to put this child's sleeping bag on the day before his first seasonal trip and search desperately.
It's not just about locating sensitive devices. This mountain of things you stuffed in the back of the garage last fall - bags, tents, mats, stoves, bags - needs a bit of maintenance before it's done this year, including cleaning, repairs, and replacements.
With so many people spending more time at home, there really is no excuse for delaying things until the last minute.
Preparing for some summer trips shouldn't be a monumental task. Chew on these ideas.
Sleeping bags: wash what you have
It is always best to keep sleeping bags loose in a storage bag or on a hanger. If you don't, the padding, synthetic or down, will eventually lose its height. Once you've put your bags in storage bags, it's time to organize them to see if they still have a lot of space in the attic. Otherwise, it might be time for a new bag. (In either case, you may need a new bag if you have an adult child.)
The bags need to be washed at least once a year (more if you sleep in your dirty hiking clothes, which should be a no-no). So if you weren't last fall, it's time. Wash it in a bathtub or washing machine without a shaker (usually a front loader) with the right detergent for sleeping bags. Some people put tennis balls in the dryer to break the strands while the bag dries. Finally, make sure all zippers work, and use a Gear Aid zipper cleaner and lubricant to clean and operate them smoothly.
Sleeping mats - check for leaks
Self-inflating foam cushions are like sleeping bags: keep them unwrapped and partially inflated with the valve open. Gives the foam a longer life inside. Inflate all your pads this spring and leave them outside for a few days to make sure there are no leaks. Take your time to remove the dirt that was left on them last year. If you have a leak, repair it according to the manufacturer's instructions. If you don't feel comfortable with it or can't find the leak (putting the tampon under water in a bathtub is an easy way), most tampon manufacturers do repairs for a small fee (or sometimes free of charge). If you don't have one, order a mattress repair kit and make sure you have it with you when you travel. Nothing is as uncomfortable as sleeping on an empty pillow.
Tents: cleaning, repair, exchange
A common mistake among campers is to pack a tent in the rain and then throw it in the garage for the winter. This is the fastest way to form mold or mildew that can ruin carp. If your store has mold or mildew, Revivex Odor Eliminator can remove odors. Otherwise it's time for a new tent. You may also need a new tent if the ground peels off (which is not uncommon with inexpensive, even relatively new tents).
If the body of your tent and the fireflies appear to be in good condition, open and shake the door (s) to remove dirt. Check the tent poles to make sure there are no cracks or gaps. The simplest solution is to buy spare parts of the same size if you can find them with the same length and diameter. Replacement poles are surprisingly difficult to get from manufacturers, especially if a tent is older than two years and if the manufacturer doesn't offer a free replacement (which is not uncommon), they can be expensive. There are third parties like tentpoletechnologies.com that replace the specifications.
If your bars have been stored folded (and it is difficult enough to do something else), the discharge cable will eventually lose its elasticity, which seems to happen much faster these days for some reason. Bulk in an outdoor store, cut and replace; Just be sure to arrange all sections of the bar so that you don't mix them up when using the new unloading cable.
Again, make sure you have a good repair kit for your business, including net stains - mosquitoes like to get through unrepaired tears. Also carry a small metal bag, available in any outdoor store, that can be slid over a pole that breaks like a temporary "rail".
Backpacks: Get rid of dirt
Fortunately, today's internal frame backpacks have few difficult parts (hairpin pins, split rings) that generally need to be repaired or replaced with older external frame packages. However, it is a good idea to give him his backpack once in the spring. Open the lids and bags, turn the bag over and shake it. You may be surprised at how much dirt and debris falls. Give it a good sponge bath, especially the floor, and check for holes. Make sure all loops are working properly.
It is also good to know
Do a dry test on all of your other devices like stoves and water filters. Check the supplies (e.g. stove fuel) and fill up now.
If you end up with the equipment you want to sell or donate, especially if you want to replace it and need money in advance for new things, you need to check some online websites.
To sell online you should consider eBay or one of the many Facebook websites like Backpacker Gear Sale, SHT Discussion and Hiking Gear Exchange or Backpacker Gear Flea Market.
Jeff Moravec is a freelance writer and photographer. Contact him at jmoravec@mac.com.
The demands for poison control have increased. Are you using detergents safely?
The COVID-19 pandemic paranoia can cause many Americans to clean their homes far beyond a typical spring cleaning . According to a report by the Centers for Control and Prevention (CDC), calls related to cleaning and disinfectant exposure rose by 20% in the first quarter of 2020.
"We are dealing with a pandemic, but that doesn't mean it does things it probably wouldn't if it weren't for the situation." You wouldn't normally washyour products in Lysol or use bleach to clean an orange, "said Bruce Anderson , toxicologist and director of the Maryland Poison Center at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy.
Dr. Georges Benjamin , managing director of the American Public Health Association, agrees. If you bring COVID-19 home, it's probably because someone was infected outside, he said. However, COVID-19 is unlikely to hang on your clothes, food packaging, or bags. In general, leave shoes outside, change clothes, wash your hands regularly and vigorously (for at least 20 seconds), clean food packaging as well as phones and electronic devices regularly with disinfectant wipes (for CDC electronic devices ). You recommend the use of cloths or Sprays with at least 70 percent alcohol , washing handbags and carpets, and good ventilation should be enough to prevent the virus from entering your home, these experts say.
Outside the human body, viruses tend to weaken or die easily. "The virus is a piece of genetic material that is surrounded by a kind of fat membrane," said Dr. Benjamin. "And that's important because it means that if you just destroy the fat membrane and expose the genetic material, it can destroy your ability to infect it."
eat
In most cases, soapy water is enough to remove COVID-19 from hands and hard surfaces, and disinfectants should only be used as a precaution after washing with soapy water. or if soap and water are not available. However, the virus can enter your home. If you live with an infected person, you should properly disinfect the house to protect yourself and your family members. The experts recommend this.
Keep disinfectants out of the reach of children.
Anderson explains that one of the main reasons why poison centers get more calls is because more children are exposed to hand cleaners and disinfectants than usual. He said that people not only buy more detergents than normal, but leave them in places where children can easily get them. He said this was probably due to the fact that fear of COVID-19 causes people to have hand sanitizers and disinfectants on hand. He said parents should keep these products out of the reach of children (the higher the better) and even lock them up if possible.
Understand the difference between cleaning, disinfection and disinfection.
Cleaning: Remove dirt and grime from surfaces that can transmit viruses and bacteria (usually with soapy water).
Disinfection: Use of chemicals to destroy germs that can remain on surfaces (does not necessarily include cleaning).
Disinfection - Reduce the number of germs that could be hiding on surfaces, either by cleaning, disinfecting, or both.
Disinfection: Clean first, disinfect later
When we wash a surface with soapy water, we remove the virus and break down its fat membrane at the same time, Benjamin said. Usually this is enough to remove or destroy it. To play safely, you must also disinfect the surfaces after cleaning with a range of productsrecommended by the Environmental Protection Agency . Cleaning is important before disinfection, as germs can hide in dirt and grime.
Which cleaning agents are safe?
Almost all disinfectants pose at least some health risks if swallowed, inhaled or applied to the skin, especially if they contain potentially harmful substances such as ammonia, bleach and ethanol. Be sure to read the product labels to ensure that you are using safe products for the purposes for which you plan to use them. If you are not sure whether a product is safe or effective against COVID-19, you can look it up in the list ofproducts registeredby the EPA for use against SARS-COV-2 .
Never mix detergents.
Certain disinfectants such as bleach and hydrogen peroxide pose a higher health risk than others and may not be required to kill germs. These cleaners and other not should never be mixed , according to Anderson. For example, mixing bleach with detergents, especially ammonia and vinegar products, is extremely toxic.
bleaching
Bleach is a common disinfectant that is extremely effective, but also extremely caustic. Bleach should always be diluted with water before use. According to the CDC , the bleach must be diluted by mixing 5 tablespoons (1/3 cup) of bleach per gallon of water or 4 teaspoons of bleach per liter of water. When working with chlorine, open the windows and keep the rooms well ventilated. Wear gloves, a mask and eye protection.
no
Lysol and Clorox products
According to Benjamin, Lysol and Clorox are generally good brands if you are looking for a disinfectant that is low in caustic but is effective in killing germs. In contrast to bleaching products, many Lysol products can be used to disinfect textiles. Note that there are many different types of these products, and all have different uses, and some may be more effective in killing germs than others, so be sure to read labels and check the list of disinfectants registered in the EPA to ensure , Buy disinfectants that do exactly what you need. Be sure to check the expiration dates of the products before using them.
health
Cloths
There are different types of wipes to clean and kill germs. Read the label carefully when purchasing. While some disinfectant wipes are designed for hands, others are designed for surfaces. Surface wipes can be harmful to the skin, while surface wipes can be less effective. So be sure to read the label, Benjamin said. Wear gloves and wash your hands after using cloths on surfaces, she advised. Check the label to make sure the cleaning product contains enough disinfectant to kill germs and follow the instructions to make sure you use it properly .
How often should I clean my house?
If you don't live with an infected person, you probably won't need to cleanyour home more than usual, Benjamin said. However, if you live with an infected person, you will want to clean anddisinfect the common spaces and "sensitive" areas of your home (doorknobs, toilet, grab handles, etc.) daily using a disinfectant registered by the " EPA. Wear Products You wear gloves when you regularly clean and wash the infected person's clothes and blankets, and you should immediately wash the dishes of an infected person, Benjamin said, and then disinfect the sinks.
Cleaning tips
What can you do if you've been overexposed to a detergent?
If you are concerned that you or someone else has a cleanser, call the poison immediately at 800-222-1222.
If another month begins after ordering a stay in Chicago, you should read some important safety guidelines.
Respect for common sense in terms of health and safety is vital for each of us to act in a better place on the other side of this pandemic. Stay home, save lives. If you have to go out, wear a mask, exercise a social distance (at least one meter away if possible), if you need to meet others, do not meet in groups of more than ten people and keep social at all times Distance a wash your hands especially thoroughly and frequently.
We also need to be alert to possible fraud and fraud related to government payments from COVID-19 to individuals and businesses. FBI and IRS officials warn that fraudsters want to persecute unsuspecting citizens. The BAPA COVID - 19 information page on BAPA.org contains links to the websites you need to get updated information from local and federal agencies. Always remember who you share your information with, and if the deal seems too good and too easy to be true, it usually does.
If the weather is much more like spring, you will feel an understandable need to get out of your COVID detention. I understand! The streets are not as crowded as always. So watch your surroundings and call 911 if you see someone or something that may not seem right.
Finally, with the increase in purchases of household cleaning solutions to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, the CDC has released a note indicating that calls to the poison information hotline have increased. CDC recommends that consumers read the labels of all cleaning solutions that they can use at home. If you have any questions, the toxicology hotline is 1-800-222-1222 and general information is available at gift.org.
While some Colorado resorts expect their elevators to spin again before the end of the season, it's safe to say that the season is over for most winter adventurers, interrupted by the corona virus. That means it's time to switch from your wardrobe to sport in warm weather. But don't hurry: there are a few easy steps to maintain, inspect and upgrade your winter adventure gear before summer storage. Industry leaders say these are the best ways to clean, repair, and store your equipment - from boot liners and bras to poles and packages. So when the next snow flurry comes, you can shred.
dress
Hard jacket and pants Professional tip : wash outer clothing and hang up in a closet; Avoid packing it in plastic containers "Cleaning stains with plain soap and warm water is a great way to keep your gear cool between washes," said Pia Halloran, designer and developer at Strafe Outerwear . However, for thorough cleaning, we recommend "washing in cold water (if your equipment is really dirty, wash it in lukewarm water) on a gentle cycle with a detergent specially designed for outerwear." Never use liquid detergent or hot water, as both can destroy the membrane and the adhesive that holds the sewing tape. We recommend Grangers, which offers a wide range of products for all types of technical equipment. ""
Wearing and washing a garment ultimately undermines the fabric's water-repellent treatment, DWR (long-lasting water repellency). "To revive the DWR after washing, throw the garment in the tumble dryer on low heat for about 10 minutes and then hang it up to dry." Apply DWR again with a detergent or post-wash treatment.
Padded jacket Professionaltip: do not crush Quetschjacken (and suffocate) "If the polyester fibers or springs remain compressed for a long time, they cannot recover and become as high as when they were new. The loft between the fibers keeps you warm. So don't leave your fool in the bottom of your bag or in your storage bag for the summer, "explains Halloran." If you've already made this mistake, you can try stuffing it by placing it in the tumble dryer over low heat; and with a tennis ball when it's down. "Insulators and hard covers follow the same washing and drying steps, but you need a special detergent for down and polyester jackets. To repair cracks, we recommend using cloth patches with glue (not heat) instead of the treatment from sewing the tear that Can create holes, "she says.
Base layers and socks Professional tip : wrap cedar in the base layers and clean socks made of merino wool "The bacteria that cause the smell are absorbed by the merino wool fibers and prevent them from multiplying or growing on the surface of the fibers. Therefore, merino wool can be used for days without having to be washed," says Maggie Meisinger. , Smartwool Communications Manager . "But if you need to keep your thicker merino winter coats for the lighter merino summer coats (or vice versa), make sure your clothes are clean: butterflies are attracted to body odors and eat."
Some professional storage tips: return your socks and clothes. Machine wash in a gentle cycle with warm or cold water (hot water shrinks wool) with mild soap and air drying to extend the life of the product. Then, for your protection, keep the clothes flat (not rolled into balls) in vacuum bags or boxes. As a precaution, add cedar to keep butterflies at bay.
equipment
Gloves Professional tip : do not wash or dry gloves and extend the life of the leather with a balm "Please don't put your gloves in the washing machine!" exclaims Marc Cutilletta, Hestra's national sales manager, who specializes in the manufacture of ski gloves and outer areas, many of which have leather outer and fleece linings. To clean the gloves, wash the outside by hand with warm water. "You can clean the stains with a paper towel and mild dishwashing detergent, which will easily remove dirt and grime from the surface. Disinfect and deodorize the inside of your gloves with a spray. Never put your gloves in a dryer - hang them upside down for best results. When using a specific glove dryer, we recommend the "low and slow" heat. ""
Leather gloves also need care treatment to stay soft, flexible, and protected. "The most important time to protect your leather gloves is at the end of the season before you put them away for the summer. I use a small amount of our natural Hestra leather balm, "says Cutilletta. If your tears are heavy, take your gloves to a local shoe repair shop. Lay the gloves flat for storage, at room temperature and not in danger. ""
helmet Professional tip : Never immerse your helmet in water and do not drop it like on a garage shelf Check your helmet before cleaning to make sure it's suitable for the upcoming winter season. "There is a misunderstanding that helmets designed for use in snow are multiple impact helmets. A helmet needs to be replaced after a severe impact, regardless of whether it was worn during the impact or from the storage box on the roof of your car fell on the complex parking lot, "said Casey Garrity, marketing director of the North American Sweet Protection Office . "Any lump larger than a penny in diameter and deep enough to grip your fingertip should be a problem. No cracks or separation from the outside. Helmets are generally a single, continuous structure, so cracks impair functionality and safety A snow helmet needs to be replaced approximately every three years due to the environment, weather conditions and user impact.
If your helmet is still safe, remove the lining and wash it by hand with mild soap and warm water. Air dry or heat dry to avoid shrinking or destruction. Use a microfiber cloth with warm water and mild soap to clean the case. "Soaking a helmet can destroy [material] connections and make the helmet dangerous," says Garrity. Wait for the helmet to air dry before storing it in a hard case at room temperature. "It's okay to keep it in a helmet bag, but keep it away from sports equipment or anything else that might touch it. Make sure there is nothing on the helmet that could cause shock or compression, "he says.
safety goggles Professional tip: Air dry to prevent mold, deformation, permanent fogging or odors "Use a microfiber cloth or goggles to clean the outer and inner lenses, but avoid touching the inner lens as this is where anti-fog treatment can and will be applied," explains Garrity For Storage (Daily and Remove in Summer Protective goggles from the helmet to reduce the stretch of the strap or the distortion of the lens and frame. Store in a hard case. "If you only have a soft case, keep your goggles together with other soft objects such as base layers storage that the glasses are completely dry. Moisture can lead to permanent fogging of the glasses and moldy facial foam, "he says. Avoid storage in locations that are exposed to moisture, extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
Skis and snowboards
Base Pro tip : repair simple shots before adding wax and reheat brittle wax after summer "In areas such as Colorado and other states with high temperatures and low humidity, it is a good idea to treat your base before your board or your sticks for the summer to create ," says Nate Dumais of Weston backcountry . First step: scrape off excess wax or glue to flake the skin. Clean the surface with a basic cleaner (substitutes are acetone and paint thinner). Check the base to see the main shots. "You don't want to fill a carrot with wax, which makes it difficult to repair later," he says. Let the base dry and fill the core with epoxy or P-Tex. After drying, smooth out with a metal scraper, bastard file or sandpaper. and continue with the summer wax treatment. ""
Rub a warm base preparation wax (yellow or red) onto the base. Then use a wax plate to run over a second layer of wax. "Make multiple passes from top to bottom on the ski or board and then iron the wax. Keep the base hydrated in the dry summer months, extend the life of the base, and make it less prone to damage in the first bends next Season, "explains Dumais.
edge Professional tip : Don't let rusty edges get infected all summer Use an edge adjustment tool for the edges "to clean and adjust the side and base bevels," says Dumais. "Most skis use a 2 degree side slope and a 0.5 or 1 degree base slope. Snowboards are generally a 2 degree side slope and a 0.5 degree base slope. Use a Scotch-Brite or SOS scratch guard and elbow grease to remove the surface oxidation at the edges. If it is all summer, there may be corrosion next fall. If it doesn't get cleaned up, you should use a file or have the edges edited in your local store. ""
links Pro tip : remove snowboard bindings to relax materials "When the snowboard bindings are mounted on the board, the base is raised," says Dumais. Therefore, you should remove the bindings for summer storage. Glue the dashboard screws and washers to the fasteners so that they are not lost. "Tighten your high heels. Don't be afraid to add a wire brake or Locktite to your outfit. For DIN ski bindings, it's not a bad idea to refuse them. Then keep your skis and snowboards in a good atmosphere in dry weather. Combine skis not with a strap, especially if they are bent. It is good to put the equipment in a pocket as long as it is dry when it goes in, "added Dumais.
Ski and snowboard boots
Boots Professional tip : Dry ankle boots and boots up close to prevent them from warping First, check the condition of your boots to make sure they're suitable for the next season. "Are the liners packed?" In this case, you may need to replace it. Are toes and heels used in ski boots? You can also replace them. Are the laces of your snowboard boots still in good condition? If not, replace them now before they break the mountain, "advises Potter Seybolt, director of the Apex Ski Boots Demo Center. Then dry the coatings. "Remove the liner and insoles and let them air dry in a warm place. You can also buy a shoe dryer to speed up the process, "says Seybolt.
Then squeeze the ski and snowboard boots together to keep their shape while they are being stored. "Close BOA buckles, shoelaces, or rolls. Make sure the liner isn't bent in a strange way that could bend or distort it, as doing so can cause inconvenience and pressure points," says Seybolt.
Touring equipment
beacon Professional tip : Clean corroded battery connections, remove the batteries and check the diagnosis First, check to see if your tag (also known as a transceiver) needs a software update or an electronic diagnostic test, says Bruce Edgerly, vice president and co-founder of Backcountry Access . Then: "Examine your transceiver for physical damage you have suffered while traveling this winter. The most common errors are the On / Off and Search / Send switches. Their antennas can adjust electronically over time, which can affect their reception range, "says Edgerly.
"To check your range, stand 50 meters from a beacon (with the main axis pointing at your beacon) and walk towards it. If you don't receive a signal within 20 meters of the transmitter, your transceiver will likely need to be checked or upgraded, "says Edgerly. Also: "Check the batteries for corrosion. If you find any, clean the compartment with a Q-Tip and isopropyl alcohol. Then test the working battery label to see if it malfunctions. »Remove the batteries from your transceiver at the end of each season before storing them.
pack Professional tip : Remove all internal parts and clean the outside with mild soap "At the end of each season, make sure that your bag material has no cracks or tears. Remove all food and other foreign matter from the bag, as rotten items can change the material over time, "says Edgerly." If you need to clean your bag, wash it with mild soap and water and hang it dry Your bag in a cool, dry place until next season. ""
Avalanche airbag Professional tip : Check cylinder pressure and airbags for leaks "First, check the pressure gauge on the cylinder to make sure it is working and that the cylinder has maintained pressure since it was last filled," Edgerly says. "To maintain the longevity of a cylinder, use the refill set for consumers that comes with every floating cylinder. In this way you can replace the O-ring on the valve spindle in the cylinder head so that you can start again in autumn. »Then deploy the airbag and make sure that it remains inflated for two minutes to detect slow leaks. If everything works well, store the pouch in a cool, dry place. "Fill the bottles at a local filling center at the beginning of the next season and check the pressure for the next few months to make sure everything is working properly," says Edgerly.
Folding post Professional tip : Dry the sticks before folding them for storage If the posts are wet, store them disassembled at room temperature until dry. Then store your clubs in a cool, dry place, like a garage, says Edgerly. If parts are worn (handles, straps, baskets, spikes), ask the manufacturer whether you can order spare parts before storing rackets.
shovel Professional tip : Check for damage and dry the inner shaft "Check where the handle is attached to the blade of the blade - they tend to break here," says Ben Markhart, ski guide, skier, and skier at Colorado Mountain School . Then "take the pieces apart and make sure they are dry in the bar before putting them away."
probe Professional tip :Checkfor folds and tears at the connection points "Assemble your probe and check the length to see if it is straight. You can bend it well with carbon probes and examine each section. With aluminum probes, you generally find wear that fits the sections - small cracks the pipes form at the connection point, "says Markhart. Dry the probe before storing it in a cool, dry place like a plastic container in a garage.
radio Pro tip : Fully charge reusable batteries or remove disposable batteries "I fully charge everything a battery uses before I store it, including a radio. If you have replaceable batteries, I remove them to avoid the risk of corrosion, "explains Markhart. Store a radio in a cool, dry place.
Climbing skins Professional tip : collect the skins at the beginning of the next season "The glue deteriorates and sticks to the base of the skis, which affects slippage," says Markhart. Then it's time to put your climbing skins back on. First remove the old glue, heat it with a hair dryer and scrape it off. Use a citrus-based cleaner and scraper to remove adhesive from the base of the ski or snowboard. Then reapply the skins at the beginning of the next season by applying a new glue tube such as the Black Diamond Gold Label adhesive, "advises Markhart. Hang or fold the skins in a cool, dry place for storage with original leather protective films and a soft carrying case.
If you normally test my spine at this time of the month, you know what to expect during my monthly Noontime Nature program at the Loveland Public Library. However, the current closure of the library means that no programs are available for a second month.
This way I can add three important details to last week's column on bird food.
By recommending cleaning the feeders once a month and completing the cleaning with a bleaching bath, I did not specify the intensity of the bleach.
Limit the bleaching ratio to 9: 1. This means that if you use nine liters of water in a 5 gallon bucket, limit the bleach to half a liter. Or nine cups for one cup. Take it seriously.
Chlorine is strong and in this ratio kills harmful bacteria and fungi and inhibits its ability to proliferate. But understand the basic chemistry here. Not because a bit is good is much much better. That's not it.
Use a vacuum cleaner like Shop-Vac once a week or every two weeks to clean the sunflower shells under the feeders. When suction is complete, soak the hose nozzle in bleach for a minute or two.
The second point concerns what to do with the bleach.
When you're done, pour the bleach onto the floor under the feed so that the chlorine can reduce bacteria that thrive on the nutritious build-up of food waste and bird droppings.
Don't overdo it like the water / bleach ratio. You don't have to sterilize the floor to protect it. Just because a bit is good doesn't mean that much is better.
The third point concerns the choice of food.
Once the birds have discovered their bird feeders, turn off the larger gray sunflower fruits. Because they are larger, they offer larger seeds for larger birds. Blue jays prefer the larger fruits.
Don't be bored when you see Jays pick up a dozen fruits and seem to fly around without eating them. They will hide them in different hiding places so that they can eat again later.
Jay's hiding places become small food treasures for Schwarzkopf and charcoal burners, white and red breast nuthatches.
Black thistle is a plant native to Africa, but its small fruits are imported as feed for birds. American goldfinch and American goldfinch and pine tar particularly prefer the black thistle. However, be aware that a problem still needs to be investigated to solve it.
Black thistle is generally marketed under the name "Niger seeds" and is considered to be unreliable. Birds will devour a lot, but ignore another batch completely. A brand that is marketed under the "Nyger" brand is particularly known for this good and bad lottery problem.
Buy a small amount of black thistle or niger; And when the birds gather there, it's a priority to buy more from the same source. If birds ignore it, buy a small amount later from the same source or from a different source. But don't give up.
If you get a very good batch, the gold finches and tars gather there like flies in a pen or bees in a beehive. Or seagulls on potato chips that were spilled in a parking lot.
If you do these things, you can easily find a wonderful way to spend time at home and also worry about the following film.
The cleaning of kitchen surfaces, dusting and storage are permanent tasks at this time.
We clean our houses more than ever, partly out of fear of Covid-19, but also because our families are still there.
Deep cleaning in full swing? Why you have to remember to spray these amazing places.Credit: Getty - Contributor
The time we should spend cleaning up is limited. However, if you want to take it a step further, we will find places that you may never consider giving.
light bulbs
Cleaning queen Lynsey Crombie says she should use a soft, lint-free, damp cloth to clean the lightbulbs.Credit: Shutterstock
So you've dusted the curtains and switches, but what about the light bulbs?
TV queen Lynsey Crombie, whose advice has earned her an army of fans on social media, says, "Lightbulbs collect dust so you get less light when you turn it on."
When cleaning, make sure the light is off and use a soft, damp, lint-free cloth with a small drop of liquid detergent. ""
Slight jerks
Lynsey says, "Chin-ups are treated daily, sometimes with unwashed hands."Photo credit: Shutterstock
They are often overlooked, but can contain bacteria, especially in the bathroom.
Lynsey says, "The handles are handled daily, sometimes with unwashed hands. Therefore, they should be kept as clean as possible. Use a versatile cleaner and to regain white, rub them with white toothpaste and leave them on for 20 minutes and do the washing up. "
In a vacuum cleaner
Lynsey says, "Make sure your vacuum is completely dry before you reassemble it."Photo credit: Shutterstock
"Don't forget to clean the things that are yours," says Lynsey.
This also includes your very important vacuum cleaner. Empty the dust collector at least once a month, clean the filter and rinse it out.
Cut all hair off the roller and clean the wheels with a warm cloth and soap.
Lynsey adds, "Make sure your vacuum is completely dry before reassembling and use again."
Washing machine
Lynsey says: "Soak the drawer in warm soapy water with a drop of white vinegar. Credit: Shutterstock
This should not be overlooked if you want to keep your clothes clean and fresh.
Lynsey says: "Your machine can be used increasingly now, especially if you are a key employee and change as soon as you get home.
Take out the drawer and place it in hot soapy water with a drop of white vinegar. Put some vinegar on the stamps, then put 500 g of soda in the empty drum and wash it long and hot. ""
Houseplants
Lynsey says, "To clean the little leaves, use a makeup brush."Credit: Shutterstock
These also need a little attention, not just irrigation. Give him normal powder and then spray it with a little water.
Lynsey says: "Houseplants are big dust magnets. Use a makeup brush to clean the small leaves. ""
Knife block
Lynsey says, "Use warm, soapy water to clean the outside."Photo credit: Shutterstock
If you have one in your kitchen, bacteria can accumulate there. So don't neglect them.
Lynsey says: "Blocks are often handled when cooking. Therefore, use hot, soapy water to clean the outside. Pay attention to the places. Use a toothbrush dipped in water to insert it.
"Dry it off and if you have stainless steel knives, rub the blades with a little baby oil to give them a shiny, streak-free finish."
Mailbox
Joanne Archer from experthometips.com says: "Disinfect the mailbox. It also helps ensure employee safety.Credit: Shutterstock
You can periodically clean your doorbell that you know is affected, but what about your mailbox?
Joanne Archer from experthometips.com says: " When the letters and packages come through our front door, disinfect the mailbox with a washcloth or a spray bottle.
"It also helps to keep workers safe."
pencils
Joanne says, "Point to the handle, cover, and retractable end."Credit: Shutterstock
These are thrown into pockets, lost on the side of the chair and hidden behind the ear, but never cleaned. Joanne suggests that you also give them a washcloth.
She says, "Spray some disinfectant cleaner on a clean cloth and wipe the outside of the pen.
Point to the handle, cover, and retractable end. Be careful not to saturate the tip of the pen or the ink chamber inside. This can damage the pen. ""
Shoelaces
Joanne says: "Put the shoelaces in a mesh laundry bag and wash them at 60 ° C or higher."Photo credit: Shutterstock
Take the time to clean your shoelaces and bras as often as possible.
Joanne says: "To clean the shoelaces, remove them from your shoe and put them in a mesh laundry bag. Wash them with other leaves at 60 ° C or higher to kill bacteria.
"Shoe bindings can be cleaned by wiping them with a disinfectant."
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Money and credit cards
Lynsey says: "Clean credit cards with disinfectant wipes"Credit: Shutterstock
Money carries many germs. For this reason, some stores currently only accept card payments. If you buy important items with cash, you can quickly clean the rooms.
Lynsey says, "Soak them in a bowl of hot soapy water and pat them dry with a paper towel."
Credit cards could also harbor bacteria. Therefore, clean them with disinfectant wipes.
Peter Andre shows an incredible change in the house after cooking and cleaning after his four children.
From the immaculate windows on the back yard terrace to the neat and organized garage, David Evans and Mary Hitt's house is spotless. The couple jokes, you can blame them for day-to-day work. Evans, a virologist who led an investigation for contamination and inoculation with Covid-19 through. Hitt studies how viruses can be developed that reproduce and kill cancer tumors without damaging normal cells.
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"Anyway, it should mean that we're pretty clean here," said Hitt.
However, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the couple made further efforts to clean up their homes. They have some basic cleaning tips for Canadians, except for those who work in healthcare or have a health problem that affects their immune systems.
Disinfect areas with high contact
While Evans goes to work in the laboratory, the couple ensures that highly sensitive areas such as door handles, light switches and the toilet flush lever are cleaned daily.
The story continues in public.
"Especially when you go out and are in contact with public surfaces, there is a possibility that the virus will spread to your hands and then to some kind of lamp," says Evans.
"The same thing in the kitchen: the taps, the hot taps," says Hitt. "If you move the faucet a bit, have a sprayer, or something else, you can think about washing it." Especially if you have just returned from shopping. ""
Should we clean our smartphones during the coronavirus epidemic?
Should we clean our smartphones during the coronavirus epidemic?
The couple also disinfect their cell phones, which are often touched inside and outside the home.
The couple created a new rigmarole to unpack the grocery. They wash their products in warm water with a mild detergent and wash their hands about five times when the bags come and go to clean the products. They also leave packaged or wrapped items idle for a few days before touching them.
"If kept for a day or two, this box will be quite sterile if contaminated," says Evans. "So if that really worries you, put it in a room or closet and leave it."
Hitt washes towels and tea towels every day. Even if he doesn't clean the floor more than before, he says, "If we crawled small children or put their hands on the floor, I would wash the floor more often."
Evans added that cleaning can be an important step to protect yourself in your home, but viruses are much more vulnerable than people imagine.
"My sister suggested the analogy: it's like painting," says Evans. "For the paint to damage your clothes or something, you have to put them on, spread them around and be fresh. Once it starts to dry, it's pretty harmless, and if you put it in your old work clothes, it really doesn't matter. The virus is the same. You may need to get a new supply of virus from your mouth or eyes. ""
The couple says that's why cleaning is so valuable, but only one step to staying healthy. The most important measure that Canadians can take is outside of their homes: staying half a meter from others.
OTTUMWA, Iowa (KYOU) - We currently know all of the methods that can help combat COVID-19 in our own home. According to Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Food Safety Specialists, many consumers are unfamiliar with the steps. Suitable for cleaning and disinfecting.
"We knew that the EPA and CDC had published this list of disinfectants, so we say," Okay, okay, people use a little bit of disinfectant, but they need to know how to do it properly, "said Shannon. Coleman , Assistant professor and specialist in food security at the ISU Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition.
According to Coleman, the first step in cleaning and sterilizing household surfaces is to really understand the difference between cleaning and disinfecting.
"Cleaning consists of using detergent or soap to clean the surface and remove all organic matter. You want to clean the surface thoroughly and then let it air dry. After it is determined that the surface is completely dry, returned a disinfectant or disinfectant. ""
When disinfecting, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for using each product. So the most important thing is not the amount of liquid or spray, but the time in which you let the product work.
"Allow him to have his contact time. (Authorize) this disinfectant or disinfectant to activate this virus or bacteria. In most cases when we shop at home, we find out how long we let it rest before we clean it or anything. " Said Coleman.
Coleman also recommends using paper towels for disposal instead of rags or other microfibers that can contaminate a surface again. To learn more about Coleman and his colleagues, click here .
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