As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 4/15/24 - 8:45am

INGENIOUS LAUNDRY HACKS

LAUNDRY SCENT CRYSTALS

2 Cups Epsom Salt

15 drops Orange Essential Oil (optional)

15 drops Lavender Essential Oil  (optional)

Mason Jar or other container for the Laundry Scent Crystals

In a mixing bowl combine the Epsom Salt and Essential Oils. Use a spatula to ensure the oils are fully incorporated.

If you prefer a more mild scent, decrease the amount of oils.

You can use a single oil or combine any ones you like.

Add laundry scent crystals to a container. If you are using a citrus oil in your mix it’s best to store your scent booster in a glass container. If you don’t use citrus oils, use any container.

To Use

Add 1/8 to 1/4 a cup of Laundry Scent Booster directly to your washing machine tub before you begin the wash cycle.

This recipe yields 8-16 loads.

NOTE:  Be careful using the scent booster on linens that guest will use.  Be sure they have no allergy issues.

DRYER SCENT BOOSTER

Take white cotton squares, approximately 6 x 6 or use white washcloths.  Lay them out on a hard, washable surface.  I lay a sheet of aluminum foil down for easy clean up and treat several at a time.

Shake the essential oil(s) of your choice across the cloth.  If you want more scent use more drops, less, use fewer drops. 

Pick up each cloth and wring it tightly in your hands.  This spreads out the essential oil.  Put the cloths in a labeled covered container. 

Toss one in each dryer load of clothes.

 Lavender is awesome for bedding, also try citrus.  Look for spicy scents for a more masculine smell and your favorite scent for yourself. 

Each cloth may be used about 5 - 6 times.  When they no longer are scented, dry and start over.

DIY LINEN SPRAY

It’s lovely to slip into bed with a soft restful fragrance surrounding you. It’s a lovely surprise for guests in the guest room.

Linen sprays are expensive, but you can make your own in minutes

I like to use Lavender Essential Oil for the calming, relaxing benefits.  You can select any essential oil you like.

In a small jar with a tight lid (repurpose a jelly jar or any small jar) combine:

2 Tablespoons of Witch Hazel or Vodka

10 drops of Essential Oil or your choice

Shake well to combine

Add 2 ounces of water to the jar and shake well for 20 or 30 seconds

Use a funnel to pour the mixture into a spray bottle and label.

Lightly spray linens

*Use caution around cats if using lavender.  It can be toxic to cats.

As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 4/8/24 - 8:45am

SHOE SAVING HACKS

Toe Marks in Sandals

How many times have you gone to put on a pair of sandals and seen those dirty toe marks where your toes sit.  There is a quick easy way to remove those and keep your shoes new looking.  It works for the suede-look lining and also leather or faux leather.

Dampen a microfiber cloth and firmly rub the inside of toe area, where the dark toe areas are.  Keep turning the cloth to a clean area as you work on the shoes.  You can also add a little bar soap to the cloth when working on leather linings. Rub until clean and then reset the nap if they have a suede-type lining, by rubbing in the nap direction with the damp cloth.  Let dry out of sun.

Tough Toe Marks

Add some rubbing alcohol to your microfiber cloth and rub.  Blot.  Allow to air dry.

White Canvas and Leather Shoes – Colored and Patterned Shoes

Do you have a pair of white canvas shoes that need cleaning?  Perhaps you have some colored athletic shoes that need freshening.

  For white canvas shoes, apply a paste of automatic dishwashing detergent mixed with hot water to the shoes.  Let this soak for at least 30 minutes, then scrub the surface with a nail brush or tooth brush.  Rinse well and allow it to dry out of the sunlight.  Do not put in the dryer.  This will cause a brown line to appear on the canvas where it touches the rubber sole.

 You may also wash the white or colored shoes in the washing machine.  Put them in in a zip up delicates (lingerie) laundry bag with your regular detergent and ½ cup of Twenty Mule Team Borax.  When done, re-shape the shoes and dry out of the sunlight.  Once dry you can apply a coat of spray starch to them so they stay clean longer and clean more easily the next time.

I have also found, while testing ZOTE Soap,  that you can wet the shoe with warm water and lather the ZOTE on the shoe.  Rub firmly or use a brush, rinse and launder as above in the washer or rinse, spin out in the washer and air dry.

Skecher Go Walk-Type Shoes

Nylon/Mesh Shoes: Most non-leather casual shoes can be safely machine washed on the gentle cycle and air-dried, I suggest placing them in a pillowcase or laundry bag before washing in machine. Apply a protectant such as Skechers™ Water Proofer Spray or Scotchgard™ to protect the shoes from water and stains.

Caring for Fabric Shoes

While fabric shoes are a little more of a challenge to keep clean, there are several things that you can do to keep them looking great for years!

Lightly brush dirt and debris away using a soft nylon brush.

Gently wipe with a damp, lint-free cloth.

Light dirt spots can be removed using Club Soda, seltzer water, or soda water and a toothbrush. Wipe to remove excess water and air dry. You can avoid water marks by feathering wet patches with a damp cloth.

Got Stinky Shoes?  Try these odor killers

Rubbing Alcohol /Vodka

Pour some rubbing alcohol or vodka into a spray bottle. (Make sure you mark your spray bottle so people know it isn’t safe to consume.)

Spray the alcohol inside each stinky shoe- just a couple spays should do the trick! Make sure you do this in a well-ventilated room or outside.

Let dry completely before wearing.

As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 4/1/24 - 8:45am

BATHROOM CLEANING THAT WORKS and HOW TO KEEP IT EASY TO CLEAN

Bathrooms are high on the list of rooms people hate to clean.  Why?  First, it’s hard to clean the shower and tub, also you kill yourself getting off the soap scum and mineral deposits and then someone showers and it starts all over.  It’s a thankless job.  Today we are going to tackle the cleaning for you.  It doesn’t matter if your shower is pretty clean already or you are one of the ones who closes their eyes each time they get in.   Then, I am going to show you what to use so you NEVER have the horrible grunge to clean again!

Which are you?

You close your eyes when you shower it is so bad.  You need the QUEEN’S MIRACLE CLEANER

This is a fantastic cleaner for shower walls and shower doors.

1 cup DAWN Original or Ultra Dish Washing Liquid

1 cup heated white vinegar – it should be nice and warm, not hot.

Combine in a spray bottle.  Spray on walls of shower and work in with a scrubbing sponge.  Let sit about 15 – 30 minutes, depending on how dirty it is.  Scrub again with the scrubbing sponge and rinse with cold water.  Cold water will keep the soap from foaming as much.  You can use this on shower doors too.

Last, do the shower floor the same way. 

Use care when using this solution.  It will make the floor of the shower slippery until well rinsed.

The showers not awful, but not ready for company either. 

Use table salt as a gentle abrasive. Simply add the salt to your microfiber cloth that’s been drenched with white vinegar and scrub the surface. You can also switch out vinegar for hydrogen peroxide to cut through soap scum build-up.  Rinse well when done.

Your shower is in good condition and you want to keep it that way.

Reach for this miracle in a spray bottle, REPEL™.  This product cleans and protects your shower so that cleaning is so easy you won’t even mind doing it.  It leaves behind an incredible protective coating that will repel soap scum, body oils and mineral deposits.  It is all you need to keep your shower, tub, shower doors, sink, fixtures etc in perfect condition. So simple…..just spray and wipe away all of your problems!

If you are one of those people who hate getting in your dirty shower, clean it with one of the above deep cleaners and then never use them again.  Simply spray and wipe with REPEL for a true miracle clean.  It’s so easy it’s almost fun!

REPEL  - BUY IT HERE

BONUS TIP:  Consider switching to liquid soap or shower gel, which don’t cause as much soap scum as bar soap.

You have rust and discoloration around the drain

You can remove rust with a combination of lemon juice and salt. You will need:

Two to three halved lemons or a bottle of lemon juice

Salt

A microfiber cloth

Microfiber Cloths: BUY IT HERE

Squeeze the lemon juice over any affected spots. You want the stains to be damp so that the salt will stick to them.

Sprinkle salt over the rust-stained areas that you just dampened with the lemon juice.

Let this sit for three to four hours.

Use the microfiber cloth to gently scrub the mixture away.

Rinse

A product you should consider keeping on hand is Bar Keepers Friend.  It cleans and removes rust from multiple surfaces around the house.

Bar Keepers Friend:  BUY IT HERE

As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 1/22/24 - 8:45am

DISHWASHER CLEANING AND TIPS

CLEAN THE FILTER

Lots of people don’t realize that there is a filter in the bottom of the dishwasher that traps food particles and debris.  This must be cleaned.  If not, your dishes will have this smelly residue on them and the dishwasher will smell.

To do this, pull out the bottom rack on the dishwasher.  Look in the bottom.  Generally there is a cylindrical tube that turns for removal.  Rinse this well and then clean with hot water and soap, rinse and replace.  Wash any other removable parts and the bottom of the dishwasher.  I suggest you do this monthly. When in doubt refer to your owners manual or look it up online.  Filters that have not been cleaned in a long time can be nauseating so be prepared.

DISHWASHER SPOT STOPPER

We are all familiar with the jet-dry type products that you can buy in the store to prevent spotting on dishes washed in the dishwasher.   They are quite expensive and loaded with chemicals.

This is a version you can make yourself for pennies and it is totally safe, natural and chemical-free.

In a labeled container with a lid combine:

 1 cup of Borax

½ cup of Baking Soda.

 TO USE:

Add 1 teaspoon of the mixture to the dishwasher along with your regular detergent.

Borax is available in grocery stores and home centers in the laundry additive aisle as Twenty Mule Team Borax.

CLEANING BALL CAPS

Arrange the ball caps on the top rack of the dishwasher (no dishes in the dishwasher please).  Fill the detergent cup with borax instead of dishwasher detergent.  Find Borax in the laundry additive aisle at grocery and big box stores.

Run through the normal cycle stopping before the dry cycle.  Remove hats and dry on a glass, pitcher or jar out of the sun.  Reshape the brim while it is still damp.

UNUSUAL THINGS YOU CAN CLEAN IN THE DISHWASHER

Flip Flops – cloth and rubber

Toys – Small and Large

Soap Dishes

Toothbrush Holders – regular and travel Plastic Flowers

Silicone Oven Mitts

Mouth Guards

Put small things on the top rack, larger things , such as toys, on the bottom rack

Put small toys in a mesh laundry bag

DO NOT USE THE HEAT CYCLE

Fill the detergent cup with Borax – Do not use dish washer detergent

Allow things to air dry when done

Reshape hats and air dry on a jar or bottle

Use the silverware basket for small things like mouth guards and travel toothbrush holders.

As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 1/15/24 - 8:45am

CARPET CLEANING HACKS

When you have a carpet OOPS immediately poor on club soda and blot, blot, blot, standing on paper towels to absorb.  If all the staining is removed you are good.  If not try this spotter.

CARPET DENTS

You go to rearrange your furniture or perhaps you get new.  When you move it you find deep dents and indentations in the carpet.  There is a super easy way to remove them.

Lay ice on the carpet dents, covering them completely. Let the ice melt slowly into the carpet.  Once the ice has melted, but the carpet is still damp,  gently fluff the carpet fibers with the tines of a fork.  Make sure the carpet is dry before sitting anything on it.

Dents and indentations gone!

STEAM CLEANING CARPET SOLUTION

2 Quarts of HOT water (the hottest you can get at the tap)

1 drop *Sal Suds Liquid. (approximately ¼ teaspoon)

 I know you will think you need more, but no matter how dirty your carpet is, DO NOT put in more.  More will leave residue in the carpet.  1 DROP is all you need.

First fill the clean water container with 2 quarts of hot water,  add the Sal Suds.  Give it a little shake to mix and clean your carpet as usual.  Sal Suds is heavier than water so always add it last to mix it in well.

Sal Suds is created by Dr. Bronner's, the people who make Castile soap.  This is entirely different than Castile soap, but it is all natural. You can use it for all kinds of cleaning and it lasts a very long time. I got mine on Amazon.com.

CARPET SPOTTER

Put 2 cups of warm water in a spray bottle.  Add to it 1/8 teaspoon of Sal Suds.  Shake to combine.  Lightly mist stained area.  Let sit for 10 minutes and then gently work into the spot.  Blot by standing on a pad of paper towels.  Take a damp cloth and blot and then blot again with paper towels to remove all the liquid you can.  Use very sparingly.  A little goes a long way.

TOUGH JOB STAIN REMOVER

1/2 cup 3% hydrogen peroxide

1 teaspoon of ammonia

Combine in a spray bottle.  Saturate stain, let sit for about 30 minutes and then start blotting.  You may need to repeat.  

You can use this again as long as the solution is not exposed to light which will cause the peroxide to break down and be useless.

ANOTHER CARPET SPOTTER

1-1/2 cup of water

½ cup of white vinegar

Spray spot and allow solution to penetrate for 20 minutes or so

Then blot well with a pad of paper towels.  Reapply if needed.

As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 12/18/23 - 8:45am

QUICK GIFTS AND STOCKING STUFFERS YOU STILL HAVE TIME TO ORDER   

Has the panic set in yet….Did you forget a gift for someone?  I’m here to help.  These are gifts you still have time to order and get prior to Christmas.  These suggestions come from Amazon and I ordered these last week and got next day delivery on all of them.  I also have a quick idea for gift cards.

Fingerprint Proof Screen Cleaner Spray, All-in-One Cleaner with Microfiber and Shell for All Phones, Laptop and Tablet Screens: 

BUY IT HERE

Dust Cleaning Gel – picks of dust and debris from car and home.  Great for small spills, glitter, and cleaning cup holders and difficult areas in cars   BUY IT HERE 

Microfiber Sticker Cleaner for Smart Phone Laptops, iPads   BUY IT HERE 

Brush Cleaning Mat, Silicone Makeup Cleaning Brush Scrubber Mat Portable Washing Tool Cosmetic Brush Cleaner with Suction Cup   BUY IT HERE  

Cleaning Pen for Airpods Pro 1 2 Multi-Function Cleaner Kit Soft Brush for Bluetooth Earphones Case Cleaning Tools Earbuds    BUY IT HERE 

Magic bean bottle cleaning sponges.  Fantastic for dropping into dirty water bottles with dish soap and water.   BUY IT HERE 

Heroes Dryer Balls.  These are high quality and with a wide range of animal faces design options.  BUY IT HERE 

Make Gift Cards Special:  Instead of just handing someone a gift card or putting in a money folder,   make it more special.  If your giving a gift card add something that relates to it.

FRAGRANT COFFEE CANDLE

To make something simple and easy, fill a bowl with coffee beans and place an appropriate size candle in it.  The heat of the candle will heat the coffee beans and you can enjoy a lovely aroma throughout the room.  Now add that gift card to a favorite coffee place.

As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 12/4/23 - 8:45am

HOLIDAY STAINS

Quick Word Of Advice:

I just had an email from a woman who decorated pinecones she had gathered and then found bugs in the decorative container they were in.

If you are collecting your own pinecones for holiday decorations, you will need to de-bug them before you use them.  Bugs love to gather in them.

Preheat your oven to 200 degrees.  Use an old baking shield or cover one well with foil.  Lay the pinecones in a single layer and “cook” them for 45 minutes.  Now you can decorate with no bugs.                                                                                                    

How to Remove Candle Wax On Hard surfaces: 

Use your blow dryer to heat the wax.  Point the heat at the edge of the wax, heat and then pop gently sift it with a plastic putty knife, old credit card, or plastic pan scrapper.

Wipe with a little olive oil, lemon oil or almond oil to remove residue.  This works on wood, plastic, walls, etc.

How to Remove Tree Sap From Fabric

Rubbing alcohol—or hand sanitizer breaks down sap quite reliably. Use a rag or old toothbrush to work it into the fabric, then let it soak for about 15 minutes. Follow up with your regular detergent and the hottest wash cycle the garment's care label recommends.

How to Remove Red or White Wine From Fabric

 For red wine stains, first dab with white wine or vodka (you read that right) and let it sit for 1 minute. Then, for both red and white wine stains, immerse in cool water for 30 minutes.

 For difficult stains, blot on a solution of ½ cup hydrogen peroxide and 1 teaspoon ammonia. Let stand for 2 to 3 hours and launder as usual. On carpet, blot first with a damp cloth and then blot well with a pad of paper towels to absorb all the moisture.

How to Remove Gravy, Butter, or Salad Dressing On Fabric

 If the stain is still wet, pretreat and launder in warm water right away.

If the OOPS happened during dinner on table linen, simply cover the problem with baking soda or cornstarch to absorb. Prior to laundering, treat with my Miracle Spotter.  Combine two parts hydrogen peroxide and 1 part DAWN Ultra dish soap.  Spritz on spot and work it in, let sit 30 minutes, launder as usual. You can use this spotter on ALL laundry stains.

How to Remove Cranberry Sauce or Apple Cider From Fabric

Flush stain with cool water. Mix one tablespoon of white vinegar and 1/2 teaspoon of liquid laundry detergent with one quart of cool water. Soak in this solution for 15 minutes.  Rinse with water. If the stain remains, sponge the stain with rubbing alcohol and rinse thoroughly. Launder, using chlorine bleach, if safe for the fabric, otherwise use non-chlorine bleach.

Lipstick Mark

You're kissing everyone hello and then OOPS!  Place clothing, stain-side down, on top of paper towels. Pour rubbing alcohol onto a clean white cloth, then dab and blot the back of the affected area until the stain comes through the material. Blot until the lipstick is gone.

 If any of the stain remains, use a prewash spray or stick, or rub liquid laundry detergent into the area, then wash. Check the stain before putting the garment in the dryer (heat may set the stain); repeat if necessary.

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As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 11/13/23 - 8:45am

WINDOW CLEANING – GMAZ 11/2023

SPRAY WINDOW CLEANER

• 1/4 c. rubbing alcohol
• 1/4 c. white vinegar
• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 c. warm water

Combine everything in a labeled spray bottle, and shake well. Shake well before each use.  Can be used on the following surfaces: Windows, Mirrors, Glass, Appliances, Stainless steel, Chrome, Aluminum, Ceramic, Plastic.

SPARKLING WINDOW CLEANER

• 3 TBS lemon juice (fresh or bottled)
• 2 cups club soda
• 1 tsp cornstarch

Combine in a labeled a spray bottle and shake well before using

SPRAY INSIDE WINDOW AND MIRROR CLEANER

• 2 cups water
• ½ cup rubbing alcohol
• ½ teaspoon Dr. Bonners Liquid Castile Soap (drug and grocery stores)

Combine in a labeled spray bottle.  Shake before using.   Spray on windows and buff.  Spray on a cloth or paper towel to use on mirrors and then buff.

OUTSIDE WINDOW CLEANER

• 2 gallon bucket of warm water
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup white vinegar

Combine well to dissolve cornstarch.  Using a sponge (a natural sponge works best) wash window, do not rinse and buff dry with paper towels or microfiber cloth

TOUGH JOB WINDOW CLEANER FOR SCREEN STAINS, BUG STAINS, HARD WATER

There is NO water in this solution

• 1 pint of rubbing alcohol
• 2 Tablespoon ammonia
• 2 Tablespoons liquid dish soap.

Apply to window using a scrubbing sponge, rinse and buff. 

This is great for windshields too. 

BUG, HARD WATER AND SCREEN STAIN REMOVER

Moisten a bar of LAVA™ Soap and rub a wet cloth across it.  Rub into stain, rinse and continue with your choice of window cleaning solution.  Buy LAVA where you buy hand or bath soap.

WINDOW AND MIRROR NATURAL CLEANER

Microfiber cloths are great for cleaning windows and car windshields.  Simply wring out a microfiber cloth in warm water and wash window with it using no other cleaner.  Then dry and polish with a clean microfiber cloth.  Keep your cloths clean as you go.

STREAK REMOVER

Simply take a black board or white board eraser and erase the streaks away.

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As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 11/6/23 - 8:45am

AMAZING SWEATER HANGING HACK

We all know that if you hang your sweaters you end up with it stretching and those nasty shoulder dimples sticking up.

This folding hack will put a stop to that and also clear out drawer space where your sweaters use to be.

First lay your sweater flat and smooth it out.  Fold the sweater in half vertically so that the sleeves are stacked on top of one another.  Place your hanger so that the hook portion is between the sweater body and arms.

Fold the body of the sweater over the hanger and tuck underneath the bottom of the hanger.  Repeat with the sleeves.  

That’s all.  Easy and done.   Now you can hang your sweaters up without worrying about damaging them.  It’s so much easier to pick out a sweater when you can easily see them.

  I want to share with you some easy ways to keep your sweaters clean, fresh and new looking and also how to take the itch out of wool sweaters.  AND – What to do if you shrunk your sweater!

CASHMERE:  Cashmere should be cared for as you would care for your hair.  Hand wash it in cool water with a good squirt of shampoo.  Gently squeeze the suds through it and then squeeze it out but don’t wring.  Put into a rinse of cool water and again squeeze it rather than wringing.  Do a second rinse of clear cool water.  Gently squeeze out the water you can and then roll in a towel to remove as much water as you can.  Reshape and dry flat out of the sunlight.

BLENDS:  These are sweaters with cotton, polyester and other fibers.  If they say “washable” on the care label here is what to do.  Turn them inside out and wash in cool water on a gentle cycle in the washer.  Dry as indicted on the care tag.  If you put them in the dryer, leave them wrong side out until you fold them.

EMBELLISHED:  Sweaters that are washable with beading, sequins, etc. on them need special care.  Always hand wash these and if you have a “hand wash” feature on your washing machine, put the sweater, turned to the wrong side, in a delicate or lingerie bag.  Use a gentle detergent and a liquid fabric softener.  Dry according to directions.

KEEPING WOOL ITCH-FREE:  Many times sweaters containing wool can be itchy when it comes into contact with skin.  To eliminate this issue wash as directed on the care label but use a rinse containing a few tablespoons of glycerin.  Find glycerin in the hand cream section at the drug store.  This will keep the garment soft and prevent itching.

PILLS ON SWEATERS:  Use an inexpensive disposable razor to “shave” away the little balls of yarn.  Don’t push down hard on the razor, just lightly go over it

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As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 10/30/23 - 8:45am

LAUNDRY HACKS AND SMART PRODUCTS

Softening Clothes

Fabric softeners are loaded with chemicals that we absorb into our skin.  They also build up on clothes.  This is a great, easy, fast way to soften and remove static electricity.

DRYER BALLS

You can buy wool dryer balls that work well.  These are the ones I have.

> BUY IT HERE

Make Your Own Dryer Balls

This is one of my best natural and budget friendly tips – you do not need to spend one more cent on dryer sheets. All you have to do is take aluminum foil, ball it up, and place it in the dryer with wet clothes.

It will remove static and it does NOT need to be changed each time.

Simply pull off a very large sheet of aluminum foil and roll it into a tightly compacted ball.

The size of your dryer foil ball should be about the size of a softball and be sure to ball it up very tightly.

You can use the same ball for at least 6 months.

I make up to 6 - 8 balls at a time and, depending on the load, I toss in 3 to 6 of the balls.  Not only does it eliminate static, it also helps to speed drying.

Laundry Detergent Sheets

I have had tons of questions on these and I have tried more of them than I can remember.  These are my pick:  Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Eco Sheets.  They really do clean! They always dissolve, not messy and you can use ½ sheet for smaller loads. 

> BUY IT HERE

Best Impossible Stain, I put it in the dryer, Laundry Stain Remover:

 De-Solv-It Laundry Saver

This works on new stains, old stains, stains that have gone through the dryer and impossible stains. 

> BUY IT HERE

DIY Queens Miracle Spotter

2 parts hydrogen peroxide

1 part Dawn Original or Ultra dish washing liquid

Combine in a squirt bottle and keep it in the laundry room. Shake prior to use. Saturate stain with it, let sit about 15 minutes to break the stain down and then launder as usual. Find inexpensive squirt bottles at the $$$ store.

Best Laundry Spotter Brushes

I love these brushes when laundry spots require a little extra work.  Work in your spotter with the brush, let sit a few minutes and then launder .  https://amzn.to/3Qs6xE8

Sweater Ball- Little balls of yarn stuck all over your sweaters.

Take a cheap disposable razor and run it gently over the area.  The sweater will look like new again!

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As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 10/23/23 - 8:45am

HALLOWEEN CLEAN UP - 2023

Rotten Pumpkin

A pumpkin sitting on a hard surface inside or outside, will most likely leave behind a moldy black stain as it decomposes. Many times you won’t notice it until it is too late

To remove it, dampen a microfiber cloth with warm water and a squirt of toothpaste, then rub it on the stain in small circles until it lifts.

Another way to remove mold from concrete is to apply a bleach solution, laundry detergent, and water to the affected area, scrub it with a brush, and rinse it clean with a sponge indoors, or hose or power washer if outside

Preventing the problem is easy.  Sit your pumpkin on a plate or other container to keep it from staining wood or cement surfaces.

Refresh Old Artificial Pumpkins

Spray paint to the rescue!  Whether yours are looking sad or you buy some at the thrift store, a can of spray paint can make everything look new and any color you want!

Chocolate

Carefully scrape off as much of the chocolate as possible without grinding the stain deeper into the fabric. Apply stain remover and wash. Wash again if necessary with fabric- or color-safe bleach. If you have a stubborn spot, wet the spot and work in some Fels Naptha Laundry Bar Soap and then sprinkle with Borax.  Work in well.  Launder as usual.  

> BUY IT HERE  

Lipstick and oil-based Halloween makeup

Dab a small amount of makeup remover or rubbing alcohol on inside seam to test the fabric for color-safeness. If the color hasn’t changed after 10 minutes, use a washcloth to dampen the stain with remover or alcohol. Dab the stain with a dry paper towel until it no longer picks up any makeup. Treat with stain remover and wash in warm water. Re-treat and rewash if the stain remains.

Costume Makeup Smears On Car Upholstery

Commercial carpet cleaner can remove costume makeup smears from a seat or carpet in a snap. Apply it using a microfiber cloth on a hidden spot first to see that the upholstery's color doesn’t bleed. If nothing comes off onto your cloth, use it to blot (not rub) the stain away.  My favorite spotter is Spot Shot. https://amzn.to/47jb6X9

On leather, use Leather CPR.  You can continue to use it to clean all leather and condition, even clothes, furniture, etc.  

> BUY IT HERE

 Hair Dye Stain in Hair

To get any color staining out of hair, mix baking soda with your shampoo and wash well.

How To Keep Decorations From Ending Up Broken From Pets and Kids

MUSEUM GEL.  This is the BEST product ever!  I use it on precious displayed pieces, Halloween breakables and Christmas breakables because I have a very active cat.  It will not damage any surface, including wood.  It is easily removable when you are ready.  I even have lamps held in place using it……like I said, I have an ACTIVE cat! 

> BUY IT HERE

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As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 10/16/23 - 8:45am

PRODUCTS AND TOOLS TO MAKE CLEANING EASIER AND FASTER -

REUSABLE CLOTHS FOR KITCHEN AND BATH

These are super-fast drying so do not mold.  Use these and save on paper towels.

I use these cloths in my bathroom and kitchen. 

Wettex The Original 14 Pack Swedish Dishcloth for Kitchen - Eco Friendly Reusable Paper Towels.

 > BUY IT HERE    for Washing Dishes

CLEAN YOUR KITCHEN AND BATHROOM SMARTER NOT HARDER  

I use Eliminate Shower Tub and Tile Cleaner for deep cleaning the bathroom surfaces in my home. The smell is cherry/almond. It is light but amazing. The cleaning power is phenomenal.

 > BUY IT HERE

I use REPEL Cleaner and Repellent on all the hard surfaces in my home.  It not only cleans, it also protects so water and soiling bead up and rinse away.  If you are going to try one product I suggest, this is the one.  It is magic in a bottle and will change your cleaning life.  You can trust the Queen!

> BUY IT HERE

BRUSH AWAY THE DIRT

These brushes get into areas that are hard to reach.  Window and shower door tracks, etc.  firm enough to do their job.

Crevice Cleaning Brush [4 PCS], Hard Bristle Gap Cleaning Brush, Long Slit Hand Brush, Crevice

This brush uses harder bristles than ordinary brushes, coupled with high-density remove dirt in the narrowest crevices.  For cleaning window tracks, sliding door tracks, shower door tracks, toilet lid

> BUY IT HERE   Tool for Kitchen

AMAZING BRUSH FOR GETTING UNDER EDGES OF THINGS

Perfect for cleaning difficult to reach places and I use it to clean the lip edge where my under mount sinks meet the counter edge.  

> BUY IT HERE

CLEAN YOUR TUB AND SHOWER STANDING UP!

OXO Good Grips Extendable Shower, Tub and Tile Scrubber - 42 inches

I use this with the ELIMINATE TUB TILE GROUT CLEANER I mentioned above.

> BUY IT HERE

COLAPSIBLE BUCKET WITH HANDLE

Sturdy bucket holds 2.6 gallons. Use it, dry it, collapse it to store. Great when you have limited storage. I love that it is always clean when I need it and no one used it in the yard!

> BUY IT HERE

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As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 10/11/23 - 8:45am

CLEANING UP BABY – GMAZ

It’s so important not to expose your baby to harsh chemicals whether they are laundry products, cleaning products or even floor cleaning products, always pick safe and natural. These are some Queen tips and some quality products you can buy.

Baby Formula, Drool, Baby Food Stains: This is my favorite laundry spotter.  Works on almost every stain.

Queen’s Miracle Laundry Spotter

2 parts hydrogen peroxide

1 part Dawn Original or Ultra dish washing liquid

Combine in a squirt bottle and keep it in the laundry room. Shake prior to use. Saturate stain with it, let sit about 15 minutes to break the stain down and then launder as usual.

ZOTE Soap:  This is a natural oil based soap bar.  Works great on grass, dirt, mud, crawling baby clothes knees.  Safe for any fabric and for baby

HERE’S SOME PRODUCTS YOU AN BUY THAT WORK GREAT AND ARE SAFE FOR BABIES

 CleanSmart Toy Disinfectant:

Kills 99.9% of viriuses and bacteria.  No Rinsing.  Breaks down to a saline solution.

> BUY IT HERE

Babyganics Laundry Detergent:

100% safe for baby.  Great stainfighting, Does 60 loads 

> BUY IT HERE 

Aunt Fannie’s Floor Cleaner Concentrate:

Babys crawl, they suck those little fingers that touched the floor.  They put toys in their mouth that laid on the floor.  Whatever you clean with goes right in their mouths.   Make it safe!

This floor cleaner is fantastic.  I use in my house.  Comes in 3 natural fragrances

MYSTERY STAINS:  Sometimes you don’t know what kids have gotten into.  For those mystery stains, combine ½ cup 3% hydrogen peroxide and 1 teaspoon of ammonia.  Apply to the stain, let sit for 15 minutes to one hour and then flush, treat with laundry pre-spotter and launder as usual.  This works on white or colorfast clothes.  To test for colorfastness, dip a cotton ball into warm water.  Blot this on to an inside seam.  If color comes off on the cotton it is not colorfast and the color will be removed or run.

BONUS TIP:  Want an easy way to clean rattles, pacifiers and small toys.  Clean them in the dishwasher on the top rack or in the silverware basket!

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As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 6/5/23 - 8:40am

SAY GOOD BYE MOSQUITOS

Mosquito Spray Repellent for Yard and Patio

Total honesty here! I don’t know why this repellent works, but it totally does.  And, what’s not to like?  It’s safe, natural, won’t harm kids or pets and won’t kill any other insects.  It just repels mosquitos!

Mix it up, put it in a sprayer and spray your yard, your patio area and take it along to outdoor parties to keep those nasty bugs away!  Your host will thank you. 

• 1 Large bottle of cheap blue
• 3 cups Epsom Salts
• 3 bottles of cheap beer, opened and allowed to go stale

Mix the ingredients together well, making sure to dissolve the Epsom salts really well

Use a sprayer to spray your yard, patio, and any area you want to deter mosquitos

This will last about 80 days depending on the severity of rain.  Re-spray as needed.

DIY Mosquito Repellent Spray for Body #1

This natural homemade mosquito repellent works for mosquitos, flies, and other insects.  

• 2 Tablespoons witch hazel
• 2 Tablespoons of one, or a combination of, the following oils: grapeseed oil, jojoba oil, almond oil, olive oil, or neem oil (which contains natural insecticidal compounds)
• ½ tsp vodka (as a preservative)
• 100-110 drops essential oils  - see suggestions below.

Instructions

1. Add the witch hazel and your choice of oil to a small spray bottle (3 or 4 oz. works well so there is room for shaking).
2. Add essential oils and shake well before each use.
3. Natural bug repellent will need to be reapplied every few hours for maximum effectiveness.

Bug-Repelling Essential Oil Suggestions:

• 55 drops lemon eucalyptus essential oil (Reported by the CDC to be a good natural substitution for DEET in repelling insects but not recommended for use on children under 3 yrs.)[3]
• add 15 drops cedar wood essential oil  

> BUY IT HERE

• 15 drops lavender essential oil. Choose Lavandula angustifolia  Regular Lavender essential oil does not have the same insecticidal qualities.  

> BUY IT HERE

• 15 drops rosemary essential oil

This natural homemade mosquito repellent is great for mosquitos, flies, and other annoying warm season bugs. Tweak to your liking.

Simple Mosquito Repellent for Skin #2

Ingredients:

2 ounces water.

2 ounces apple cider vinegar.

20-25 drops of Nature Shield™ (An all-natural oil made with a mix of citronella, peppermint, lemongrass, cedar wood and geranium 

> BUY IT HERE

WELCOME TO THE QUEEN’S LITTLE PALACE OF HORRORS!

A couple of months or so ago we started noticing mosquitoes in the house.  We used the slap and kill method of control thinking it was just a mosquito that got in the house.  Then we started noticing mosquitoes every day.  Not tons of them, just a few, but consistent.

 I knew there had to be an answer INSIDE the house so I started paying attention.  It didn’t take me long to realize that the mosquitoes were always in a guest bathroom.  That led me to the conclusion that they were originating in there. After lots of research I learned that mosquitoes like drains.  Drains are moist, they have everything a mosquito could want and they are a great place to raise a family.  YUCK!!  This is particularly true of bathrooms that aren’t used often.  That was my answer.

I decided to take a cup of baking soda and dump over/into the drain and then follow with a couple of cups of white vinegar.  I let the science experiment begin as it bubbled up.  I went back 30 minutes later and I knew I had found my problem.  Dead mosquitoes had bubbled up around the drain.  I would show you a picture, but I was so grossed up I turned on the hot water and let it run 10 minutes.  I waited a day and repeated this.  Mosquitoes gone. 

Of course, I am the Queen of Clean so I did this to every single shower except the one we used daily.  I even did the sinks.

Why am I sharing this?  Because during my research I found out that there are also things known as drain flies that love to live there. 

Start the new year off right, if you have any bathroom that is not used often follow my lead and use the baking soda/vinegar.

If you should find you have a serious problem, not taken care of by the baking soda/vinegar, there is a product called GREEN GOBBLER™ that is a safe drain cleaner.  It sinks into the drain clogging, liquefies organic matter like hair and soap scum, and it’s non-damaging to the drainpipes. It unchokes, cleans, and clears your bathroom drains, no matter how wide or narrow they are, instantly.  This drain opener is safe to use in pipes, toilets, sinks, tubs, and showers and is safe for septic systems. It is non-corrosive to pipes and does not contain bleach or sodium hydroxide.  

> BUY IT HERE

Just writing about this experience makes me go EWWWW!

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As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 5/22/23 - 8:40am and 5/27/23 - 6:47am

CLEANING HACKS FOR BUSY PEOPLE

Vinegar Multi-Surface Spray

1 Part Rubbing Alcohol

2 Parts White Vinegar

1 Part Water

3-4 drops of Dish Soap

Optional: 10-15 drops of Essential Oil. Try Lemon, Orange, or Tea Tree Essential Oils if you would like to scent it.

Combine all the ingredients in a reusable spray bottle and shake. ( Check the $$$ Store for good spray bottles)

You can use this mixture to clean counters, toilets, bath tubs and showers, windows, mirrors, even floors! (Do not use on granite, marble or other natural stones)

Spray and wipe with a microfiber cloth.

Simple Daily Shower Cleaning Spray Recipe – Spray and Walk Away

(For fiberglass, tile, and glass showers)

Combine in a spray bottle, shake and use daily.

1 part white vinegar

3 parts water

Optional: 5 drops essential oils.  Tea Tree is especially nice for this.

Vinegar-Free Daily Shower Spray Recipe -  Spray and Walk Away

(For marble and natural stone showers)

Combine in a spray bottle, shake and use daily:

1 part rubbing alcohol

3 parts water

Optional: 5 drops essential oils, Tea Tree or Peppermint or any citrus is good for this.

Mold-Killing Daily Shower Spray Recipe – Spray and Walk Away

(For stubborn mold and mildew problems)

This one uses hydrogen peroxide, which degrades quickly when exposed to light. To keep that from happening, mix it directly in the hydrogen peroxide bottle then screw a spray nozzle on.

1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide

1/4 cup rubbing alcohol

2-3 drops liquid dish detergent (like Dawn)

1 cup water

Glass Shower Door Protectant

Once you have cleaned and buffed your shower doors, put a coat of REPEL on them. This will keep soap scum and mineral deposits from building up and make the doors easy to clean.   Use REPEL™ to clean and  to continue to see the repellant properties.   This is all I use to clean my sinks, tub, shower etc.  Safe for Stone surfaces too. Find REPEL at Homedepot.com or Amazon.  BUY IT HERE

Remove Grease with Grease – Perfect for cupboard doors and back splashes

When oil splatters on your cupboards or backsplash, it may seem crazy to use more oil to get it off. However, just like oil and water don’t mix, using a water-based spray won’t clean off the grease splatter. Instead, lightly spray with Non-Stick Cooking Spray – Yes a PAM-Type product.  Use a paper towel to rub off the splatter. Wipe with a fresh cloth until the oily residue is no longer detected.

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As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 5/15/23 - 8:45am

CLEANING WITH SALT 

The chemical properties of salt also make it useful for many common repair and maintenance jobs around the house. You can use salt to make your own plaster. Salt also does wonders at removing rust and stopping new candles from dripping.

Doing a Drywall or Plaster Repair

 Mix 2 tablespoons salt and 2 tablespoons cornstarch, then add enough water (about 5 teaspoons) to make a thick paste. Use the paste to fill a small nail hole, chip, or other hole in Sheetrock or plaster. Let the paste dry, then sand lightly and paint.

Candles:

Stop new candles from dripping by first soaking them in a strong solution of 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup salt for several hours. Let the candles dry, then burn them as usual.

Rust

 Mix salt and cream of tartar, and moisten with enough water to make a paste. Apply to a rust stain on a piece of metal outdoor furniture; let it sit in the sun until dry. Repeat the process if necessary.

Another rust removal method is to make a paste of lemon juice and salt. Apply paste to the rusted object, and rub with a dry, soft cloth.

Clean Sink Drains  

Pour salt mixed with hot water down the kitchen sink regularly to deodorize and keep grease from building up.

Remove Water Rings

 Gently rub a thin paste of salt and vegetable oil on the white marks caused by beverage glasses and hot dishes, on wooden tables.

Clean Stained Cups

 Mix salt with a dab of dish soap to make a soft scrub for stubborn coffee and tea stains.

Clean A Glass Coffee Pot

 Every diner waitress’ favorite tip: add salt and ice cubes to a coffee pot, swirl around vigorously, and rinse. The salt scours the bottom, and the ice helps to agitate it more for a better scrub.

Wine Spills

Blot up as much as possible and immediately cover the wine with a pile of salt, which will help pull the remaining wine away from the fiber.  Soak the clothing or tablecloth in cold water for thirty minutes before laundering.

Extinguish Grease Fires

 Keep a box of salt near your stove and oven, and if a grease fire flares up, douse the flames with salt. (Never use water on grease fires; it will splatter the burning grease.) When salt is applied to fire, it acts like a heat sink and dissipates the heat from the fire–it also forms an oxygen-excluding crust to smother the fire.

Deter Patio  and Sidewalk Weeds

 If weeds or grass grow between bricks or blocks in your patio, sidewalk or driveway, carefully spread salt between the cracks, then sprinkle with water or wait for rain to wet it down.

Stop a Flaming BBQ

 Toss a bit of salt on flames from food dripping in barbecue grills to reduce the flames and calm the smoke without cooling the coals.

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As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 5/8/23 - 8:45am

GREAT CLEANING USES FOR ALL NATURAL CASTILE SOAP

Dr. Bronner’s Liquid Castile Soaps are made using pure coconut, olive, hemp, and jojoba oils. The result is a concentrated and completely biodegradable liquid soap that cleans gently, yet effectively, and can be used in a vast number of different ways!

All-Purpose Cleaning Spray

Add 1/4 c. of castile soap to a quart of warm water, stir in well. Add essential oils, if desired, for added cleaning, disinfecting power, and fragrance. I have used Dr. Bronner’s Tea Tree Soap, which already contains tea tree oil, which I love the smell of and has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Pour the solution into a labeled spray bottle and use to clean hard surfaces.

Antibacterial Soft Scrub Cleanser

Ingredients:

3/4 cup baking soda

1/4 cup castile soap

1 Tbsp water

10-15 drops of melaleuca essential oil (Tea Tree Oil)

Directions:

Combine the baking soda and castile soap in a mixing bowl.  Add the water and tea tree oil to the bowl and stir with a fork.  Stir until you achieve a paste-like consistency. Add more baking soda or castile soap to achieve the consistency you want. Transfer to your container

To Use

Use your homemade Soft Scrub to clean your sink, bathtub, toilet, microwave, tile and grout, countertops, pots and pans, glass stovetop, concrete, stainless steel, granite, and glass. Avoid using it on porous surfaces such as untreated wood or unsealed granite or stone.

This should last on the shelf one month.

Floor Cleaner

Add 1/2 c. castile soap to 3 gallons of hot water in a bucket. Keep the solution clean and no rinsing is required.

Reusable Kitchen Wipes

The Environmental Protection Agency cites artificial fragrances in cleaning products as an indoor irritant and pollutant. A single fragrance can include as many as 600 petrochemicals—all within the word “fragrance” on the label.

Pairing these natural cleaners with essential oils only enhances their cleaning value and leaves behind a pleasant, natural scent. It’s not just an advertising gimmick that many commercial products contain citrus oils such as lemon or lime—they are natural degreasers and have antimicrobial properties.

Take an old t-shirt  PJ’s or whatever you have and cut it up into “rag-size” cloths.

Pour 1 cup warm water, 1/8 cup (or 1 ounce) liquid castile soap, and 5 – 10 drops of your favorite essential oil into a jar with a tight-fitting lid.

For powerful antibacterial properties, try peppermint essential oil or Tea Tree Oil.

Place the rags into the jar with the liquid. Put the top on the jar (or whatever lidded container you prefer) and turn upside down a few times until all the rags are soaked.

After being used, the cloths can be washed and returned to the jar for use over and over again.

Handwashing Dishes

Fill your sink or a basin with 10 parts warm water and 1 part castile soap, and wash dishes as usual. The same ratio can be used to make a smaller amount to use in a soap-dispensing scrub brush.

Fruit and Veggie Wash

As consumers become increasingly more concerned about the use of harmful pesticides and sprays on our fresh produce, Fruit and Veggie Washes have become a popular solution. They come with a high pricetag,  but with a little castile soap, you can make a simple and effective wash for your produce in minutes.

Simply add 1/4 tsp. of castile soap to a bowl of water and stir. Dunk your produce into the bowl and swish around to loosen any dirt or debris. Rinse well under cold water and allow to drain or dry with a paper towel.

Ant Spray

Add 1/4 c. of tea tree soap to a quart of water and stir to mix. (You can also just add 6-8 drops of Melaleuca essential oil to the soap if you don’t have the tea tree soap on hand.) Spray indoors or outdoors, wherever ants have been spotted or are accumulating.

Note: Do not use on plants, as this concentration will burn plants!                                                 

As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 5/1/23 - 8:45am

WHAT LAUNDRY SPOTTER PRODUCTS DOES THE QUEEN OF CLEAN BUY

I don’t always make my own laundry spotters. There are some great products I have tested over the years that have found work really well.  Here’s my list and what I use them for.

AMODEX Non-toxic Ink and Stain Remover:  I came across this a few years ago in an office supply store.  It never fails to impress me.  It works great on ink and is also good for Sharpie marks.  In addition to that it removes grass, crayon, hair dye, wine, berries, chocolate and so much more.  It is not inexpensive but a little goes a long way and for those tough stains it really does the job.  Buy at ACE, AMAZON and office stores.

ZOTE SOAP:  This is a very inexpensive bar of soap that is fantastic for removing oily stains and I love it for underarm stains.  First moisten the underarm with hydrogen peroxide and then work in the ZOTE Soap really well.  Make sure you treat the entire stain. Let it sit a few minutes and then launder as usual.  I usually have 100% success with this method.  You can also use it for washing delicates and other spotting.  Find at Walmart, grocery stores and many $$$-type stores.

CARBONA STAIN DEVILS – These are a series of laundry spotters for specific problems.  There is one for rust, red wine, grease and oil, gum, blood, for a total of 10.  Look for them in the laundry spotter aisle and use according to directions.  They work well.

ZOUT LAUNDRY STAIN REMOVER:  This is a spray spotter that works for a wide variety of spots and stains.          Of the many available brands I find this works the best.  Find anywhere laundry spotters are sold.

FELS NAPTHA LAUNDRY BAR SOAP:  This soap has been around since the 1800’s.  It is a wonderful spot and stain remover and works well on grass and red mud.  It’s great for spotting sports uniforms.  It’s inexpensive and can be found in the spotter aisle at grocery and big box stores.  It’s very inexpensive and lasts a long time.  I use it for cleaning too.  It works well for scrubbing patio furniture.

SPOT SHOT INSTANT CARPET STAIN REMOVER:  I love this for really difficult stains and grease and oil.  Test in an inconspicuous area prior to using. 

I always have my QUEEN’S MIRACLE SPOTTER on the shelf.  It is wonderful for all stains and spotting.

Combine 2 parts hydrogen peroxide and 1 part DAWN Original or Ultra Dish Soap and put it in a labeled squirt bottle.  Work it into stains and launder as usual.                                                               

As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 4/10/23 - 8:45am

AMAZING USES FOR CORNSTARCH – SAFE, NATURAL, and INEXPENSIVE

Polish Silver

Mix water and cornstarch together to get your silver to shine again. The paste should be similar to school glue. Slather the paste on to the silver and let it dry. Once it's dry, wipe it off and buff it clean.

Clean Leather

You can rid leather of grease stains with cornstarch. Dust some cornstarch on to the stained area and let it sit overnight. Then wipe it away in the morning with a brush.

Remove Odors

Are your sneakers smelly? Get rid of the odor in those running shoes by sprinkling cornstarch into them, which will help to absorb the perspiration. Shake out prior to wearing.  Any remaining cornstarch will combat odor in the shoes. It’s safe and natural for your feet.

Homemade All-Natural Deodorant

• 2-3 Tablespoon of  coconut oil
• 1/8 cup baking soda
• 1/8 cup arrowroot powder or cornstarch

Warm the coconut oil in the microwave for 30 seconds (or less), or just until it liquefies.

Mix the soda and the cornstarch together and slowly add the coconut oil until it forms a thick paste.  It already smells good from the coconut oil, but adding a few drops of your favorite essential oil makes it that much better. I decided to add some Lavender essential oil for its’ antiseptic and antifungal properties. 

I keep mine in a half pint mason jar and use in this lotion state. Others like to keep it in the fridge so it’s more like a rub-on deodorant stick.

To make the deodorant more like a stick deodorant add 1-2 Tablespoons of beeswax pastilles (find these at places like Walmart and Amazon) to the coconut oil when microwaving it. Let the beeswax and coconut oil melt together, and then continue with the recipe.

Clean stuffed toys

Frequently used stuffed toys get soiled very quickly with dirt mixed with grease. Machine washing and drying too often can reduce their life. Give them a cornstarch treatment between washes.

Put the stuffed toys in a pillow cover or fine cloth bag with a cup of cornstarch, close the opening, and shake well. Leave it overnight to allow the starch to absorb all the grime. Take the stuffed toys out and remove the residue with a vacuum cleaner or take outside and brush thoroughly.

DIY body powder:

Stop buying body powder at the store and make your own that you can personalize with your favorite essential oils. Mix one cup cornstarch with a few drops of essential oil, and then shake.

Crayon Removal

Make a thick paste of cornstarch and water and apply to crayon marks on walls.  Allow the paste to dry and then use a cloth to wipe away the cornstarch and the crayon.

Shine Wood Furniture.

Add shine to wood furniture by sprinkling on a small amount of cornstarch and buffing. This will also help remove excess furniture polish.

Outside Window Cleaning

Combine 2 quarts of warm water and ½ cup of cornstarch.  Using a sponge, preferably a natural one, wash the outside windows and buff dry.

Nail Polish Matte

If you love matte nail polish, you can make it at home with cornstarch. Just mix cornstarch with a nail polish in a small throwaway container and then immediately apply it to your nails.
                                                              

As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 3/20/23 - 8:40am

KIDS STUFFED ANIMALS

It’s easy to forget how dirty and dusty these can get, but there is a quick natural way to clean them. 

Place the stuffed animal/animals in an appropriate size plastic bag.  For larger animals or multiples, a plastic garbage bag works well.

Pour in about ½ cup of salt for a group or larger animal and about ¼ for smaller.  You don’t have to measure, just pour.

Seal or pull the ends of the bag up tightly so that no salt can escape and shake really well for a few minutes. 

Take the bag outside and remove the stuffed toys and brush.

If the toys have a little odor to them, switch up the salt and use baking soda instead.  Shake for a few minutes and then let the stuffed animal sit in the bag with the baking soda for a few hours or overnight. 

Take outside and brush really well.

If you have a lot of stuffed toys, put them in the dryer on “air only” or “air fluff” for about 15 minutes. 

CLEANING LAMPSHADES

To clean fabric lampshades, including silk ones, go over them with a Soot and Dirt Removal Sponge.  Buy these at hardware stores, home centers and similar stores and Amazon BUY IT HERE

They look like a big brick erasers and are always used dry.  They basically will erase the dirt away.  Simply run it down the shade until it is clean.

For paper shades use a dry microfiber cloth to capture and remove the dirt.

You can also use a lint roller to go over lampshades and remove dust and pet hair.

CHROME FAUCETTES

There are several ways to keep chrome sparkling.

Use white vinegar on a cloth or sponge to remove water spots and soap scum, then buff with a soft cloth. 

Rubbing alcohol also works well.  Rub it on with a soft cloth or paper towel and then buff.

To shine any chrome or metal fixtures in a hurry, use a dryer fabric softener sheet – I save my used ones for this.  Simply rub a dry fixture with the softener sheet.

You can also use lemon juice on chrome to polish it.

Other faucets such as oiled bronze use a microfiber cloth.

OVEN CLEANING

Make a thick paste of baking soda, hydrogen peroxide and white vinegar. I use 1/2 cup peroxide and 1/2 cup white vinegar and add enough baking soda to create a thick paste.

Apply to the entire oven. Let sit for an hour and then spray the paste with more hydrogen peroxide to moisten it again.  Use a scrubbing sponge or FINE (0000) Steel Wool to clean it. Rinse well.

Apply the same paste to the oven door glass and metal, following the same directions.

CANDLE WAX FROM HARD SURFACES

These surfaces include glass, counter tops, wood, mirrors, and any hard surface

Scrape away the excess, and then apply heat with a blow dryer set to MEDIUM, wiping off the wax with an old rag or paper towel as it softens. Remove all that you can.  Wash the area with hot, soapy water to remove residue.

You can also use a product called Simoniz Chewing Gum Remover. BUY IT HERE                                                                                    This works on many stains and problems such as,  gum, playdoh, black rubbery stuff, adhesive residue, sticky melted candy, candle wax, gummy residue on carpets, car mats, shoes, walkways, furniture.                                                                

As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 2/27/23 - 8:45am

WOOD FURNITURE TRICKs and TIPS  

What’s Up With Furniture Polish?

Using the wrong furniture polish on furniture can actually cause damage and here’s a misconception; furniture polish  doesn’t clean anything! It will, however, dull the finish and leave a build-up on your furniture over time. So you might want to leave store-bought furniture polish out of your cleaning kit.

How To Remove the Build-up of Furniture Polish on Your Wood

If you find your wood is dull from a build-up of furniture polish, you’ll see a haze or streaks you can’t get rid of.  If you want a quick and inexpensive way to remove the film simply steep two bags of black tea for 10 minutes in boiling water ( Don’t use flavored, herbal or sweet tea).  Let the tea cool, and then immerse a clean cotton cloth into the tea.  Wet your cloth well and then begin to wipe.  The tannins in the tea will break down that dull, waxy finish to reveal the wood’s natural beauty. Repeat as needed, not letting the wood surface stay wet too long.  Buff with a microfiber cloth.

You can also sprinkle a little cornstarch on the wood and buff it in well to remove a light amount of excess polish.

DIY Furniture Polish

This is a wonderful, natural polish that you can use on all wood except wood that isn’t sealed.

In a labeled spray bottle combine 1 cup of olive oil with ¼ cup of white vinegar.  The oil moisturizes the wood and the vinegar cleans it.  Shake the bottle well and spray the polish onto a soft cloth.  An old wash cloth works well.  Apply in a buffing motion to the wood furniture.  Remember, you don’t need to use this all the time, just when the wood looks lackluster.  Using it too often will create a build-up that can attract dirt and dust.  I suggest no more than once a month.  Want that just polished smell?  Add a few drops of lemon or orange essential oil.

Removing Water Stains and Rings.

Combine olive oil and salt into a paste that will cover the ring.  Apply it to the white ring and massage it in well, working in a circular direction.  Let the olive oil/salt paste sit for 4 hours or even overnight and then wipe it off. If the ring is gone, polish the area and you’re done.

If you can still see a little white, simply reapply the paste and let it sit again.  Wipe and buff.

For a deep ring try working in a little non-gel toothpaste and buff it firmly with a soft cloth.  Use a damp cloth to remove the paste and then use the olive oil and salt mixture.

Removing Ink Marks

Combine 1 Tablespoon of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of water so that it is a thin paste.  Apply to the stain and rub it gently in with a soft cloth until the stain disappears.

Scratch Touch-Ups

Use an appropriate colored scratch cover stick.

Old English makes a wonderful scratch cover that you can go over the entire piece with.  It comes in dark and light colors.  Look at home centers, hardware stores or online for it and AMAZON to purchase.

For Dark Wood:  BUY IT HERE

For Light Wood: BUY IT HERE

Use a walnut to cover scratches.  Break it in two and use the exposed center to rub the scratch firmly.

A crayon will work too especially on deeper scratches.  Warm the area you are working on with a blow dryer and then rub the scratch with a similar colored crayon or mix several crayons together.  Heat it again and rub with a throw-away cloth.

As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 2/20/23 - 8:45am

BATHROOM CLEANING THAT WORKS and HOW TO KEEP IT EASY TO CLEAN

Bathrooms are high on the list of rooms people hate to clean.  Why?  First, it’s hard to clean the shower and tub, also you kill yourself getting off the soap scum and mineral deposits and then someone showers and it starts all over.  It’s a thankless job.  Today we are going to tackle the cleaning for you.  It doesn’t matter if your shower is pretty clean already or you are one of the ones who closes their eyes each time they get in.  Then, I am going to show you what to use so you NEVER have the horrible grunge to clean again!

Which are you?

You close your eyes when you shower it is so bad.  You need the QUEEN’S MIRACLE CLEANER

This is a fantastic cleaner for shower walls and shower doors.

1 cup DAWN Original or Ultra Dish Washing Liquid

1 cup heated white vinegar – it should be nice and warm, not hot.

Combine in a spray bottle.  Spray on walls of shower and work in with a scrubbing sponge. Let sit about 15 – 30 minutes, depending on how dirty it is. Scrub again with the scrubbing sponge and rinse with cold water. Cold water will keep the soap from foaming as much. You can use this on shower doors too.

Last, do the shower floor the same way. 

Use care when using this solution.  It will make the floor of the shower slippery until well rinsed.

The showers not awful, but not ready for company either. 

Use table salt as a gentle abrasive. Simply add the salt to your microfiber cloth that’s been drenched with white vinegar and scrub the surface. You can also switch out vinegar for hydrogen peroxide to cut through soap scum build-up.  Rinse well when done.

Your shower is in good condition and you want to keep it that way.

Reach for this miracle in a spray bottle, REPEL™.  This product cleans and protects your shower so that cleaning is so easy you won’t even mind doing it.  It leaves behind an incredible protective coating that will repel soap scum, body oils and mineral deposits.  It is all you need to keep your shower, tub, shower doors, sink, fixtures etc in perfect condition. So simple…..just spray and wipe away all of your problems!

If you are one of those people who hate getting in your dirty shower, clean it with one of the above deep cleaners and then never use them again.  Simply spray and wipe with REPEL for a true miracle clean.  It’s so easy it’s almost fun!

REPEL  BUY IT HERE

BONUS TIP:  Consider switching to liquid soap or shower gel, which don’t cause as much soap scum as bar soap.

You have rust and discoloration around the drain

You can remove rust with a combination of lemon juice and salt. You will need:

Two to three halved lemons or a bottle of lemon juice

Salt

A microfiber cloth - BUY IT HERE

Squeeze the lemon juice over any affected spots. You want the stains to be damp so that the salt will stick to them.

Sprinkle salt over the rust-stained areas that you just dampened with the lemon juice.

Let this sit for three to four hours.

Use the microfiber cloth to gently scrub the mixture away.

Rinse

A product you should consider keeping on hand is Bar Keepers Friend.  It cleans and removes rust from multiple surfaces around the house.

Bar Keepers Friend:  BUY IT HERE

As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 1/30/23 - 8:45am

CLUB SODA CLEANING HACKS

Club Soda has many great cleaning applications and it doesn’t always have to be fresh.  You can use up a leftover bottle.

Club Soda is my OOPS! I can’t believe I spilled that spotter`

WHY DOES CLUB SODA WORK?  The salts in it keep things from staining and the carbonation bubbles up dirt and spots so they are easier to remove.

Clean Porcelain & Stainless Steel

Club soda is the perfect cleaning agent for porcelain. Clean with a soft cloth wrung out in the club soda and wipe dry to prevent water stains and spots. A micro fiber cloth is especially good for drying and buffing, Apply club soda to stainless steel with a micro fiber cloth and then buff.

Clean Windows

Combine in a spray bottle:

3 Tablespoons of lemon juice

2 Cups of club soda

1 teaspoon Cornstarch.

Shake well prior to each use to keep the cornstarch mixed well.  The cornstarch puts the shine on the windows.

Spray and wipe.

Clean Your Car’s Windshield

Sometimes windshield wipers just aren’t enough. Always be prepared with a spray bottle of seltzer/club soda to keep your car’s windshield clean. You actually can buy the large bottle for about 49 cents and put a regular sprayer on top to use. Use inside and out.  It will not damage or stain the dash area.

Clean Precious Gems. Keep your jewelry  looking good  by cleaning with seltzer/club soda. Let the jewelry soak in a glass of the club soda/seltzer overnight. For glued pieces, soak 5 minutes and then buff dry.

Remove Clothing Stains. Pour seltzer/club soda on clothing stains and blot.  For tougher problems, soak the area in club soda for an hour or so

Use club soda to remove wine stains. To remove a red wine stain from fabric or carpet,  generously douse the fresh stain with club soda and gently blot (don't rub) the stain with a clean cloth or pad of paper towels until it disappears. Club soda is slightly acidic, so be sure to flush the fabric or carpet with water once the stain is gone.

Use club soda to water your houseplants. Club soda contains a slew of macronutrients essential to plant growth: carbon, oxygen, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, and sodium. To perk up your houseplants, water them with club soda once a week, or spritz them with a club soda foliar spray.

Use club soda to clean up pet urine. If your pet had an accident on the carpet,  blot up as much of the urine (or vomit) as possible with paper towels. Saturate the area with club soda, let it fizz until the bubbles subside, and blot again. Repeat until the stain is removed, and let the carpet air dry.  If needed, clean the area with your favorite carpet spotter or enzyme product.  Use an odor eliminator like ODORZOUT. Odorzout.com.

Use club soda to loosen rusted nuts and bolts. If you have some stubborn nuts and bolts that have rusted on and no WD-40 on hand, pour some club soda over them and soak for a few hours. For items you can't soak, wrap a soda-dampened towel around the nuts and bolts and let it sit. The carbonation helps to bubble the rust away, loosening the bolts without requiring a lot of elbow grease on your part.

As seen on: GMAZ-3TV   -  Air date: 1/23/23 - 8:45am

ORGANIZING MADE EASY AND IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE AN ALL DAY PROJECT

RUG GRIPPERS –

Vacuuming is easy when the area and throw rugs don’t move.  These grippers are the easy and inexpensive solution.  Place and each corner for smaller rugs and for larger rugs use on sides too.  The rug won’t move when you walk on it or when you vacuum.  The grippers are washable and reusable. Finally my rug in front of the sink stays in place. 

BUY IT HERE

BASEBALL HAT STORAGE

Don’t use closet shelf space for hats.  Use this handy rack to keep your hats in reach and neat.

BUY IT HERE

TOOTHBRUSH HOLDER/BATHROOM RACK

BUY IT HERE

SHOE SLOTS ORGANIZER

Put these on the shelf and use to store shoes in a small convenient area by stacking each pair.  They are adjustable for heels, flats and athletic shoes.  Great space saver and handy.

BUY IT HERE

PULL OUT SHELVES FOR CLOSET and PANTRY

I love these for my pantry.  Easily store spices, jars, packaged foods in reach neatly and easily.

 BUY IT HERE

SOAPSTANDLE 

BUY IT HERE

As seen LIVE on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 1/9/23 at 8:45am

CREATING A SIGNATURE SCENT FOR YOUR HOME

Think about the Mood You Want to Set

If you want to create a relaxing, calm atmosphere for instance, use notes like lavender. Citrus scents are energizing and usually make things smell clean, where scents like wood and smoke create a cozy, warm ambience.

For the bedroom, picking soothing and calming scents is best.  Pick vanilla, vetiver or fruity scents as they are distinctive yet subtle. In the bathroom, you'll want to hide any bad odors, and include an invigorating and refreshing touch to the room. Choose citrusy scents, or fresh, clean notes. For living areas you'll want something crisp and cheerful. Pick woody, earthy or floral scents.  For the living area, it also depends on your decor. If your setup is minimalist, then opt for woody scents and if you have traditional decor then opt for floral fragrances." For the kitchen, light smells that won't overpower the food aromas is best, so picking subtle or spicy fragrances is key.

You layer lotions and perfume on your body, now you can layer your home scent.

To layer your signature home scent, use it in your cleaning products, hand soap, air fresheners, diffusers and anywhere else you can think of.  That will keep your scent fresh and lingering, but not overpowering.  You want people to enter your home aware of a wonderful scent but not overwhelmed.  Think about some hotel and conference centers and some stores that make you pause as you walk in and say what is that wonderful smell.

I have created some products that you can make your own by layering your essential oils.  You don’t need to stick to one.  Start out by using 2 or 3 and experiment.

WHAT IS THE QUEEN”S SIGNATURE SCENT?  I am currently obsessed with Eucalyptus and Mint! It is a wonderful clean, fresh, sultry scent.  During the holidays I had many questions about why my house smelled so wonderful.

AIR FRESHENER

24 drops Primary essential oil
16 drops Secondary essential oil 
16 drops Third essential oil  ( or only use 2 essential oils, your choice)
4- to 8-ounce spray bottle
6 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons vodka

In a 4- to 8-ounce spray bottle, combine the water, vodka, and essential oils.  Cap lid tightly and shake to combine. The freshener will last indefinitely, though the essential oil scent may fade over time and you may want to refresh.

 Shake the spray bottle well, and then spray the freshener into the air, around furniture, or on rugs. Don’t saturate fabrics, just mist!  

POWDER AIR FRESHENER

Half fill a small jar with baking soda (great for absorbing odors) then add 10 to 20 drops of your favorite essential oil. Or, blend a few that mingle well together: try eucalyptus and lemon, or rosemary and lavender. Place gauze over the top and secure with an elastic band.

REED DIFFUSER

You’ll need a glass jar with a narrow opening for this one. Combine equal parts warm water with vodka, and then add 20 drops of your favorite essential oils. Pour into your jar, then add in a handful of clean cooking skewers. In
a day or two, the liquid will start to move up the sticks.

DIY LIQUID HAND SOAP (It only takes 4 minutes to make)

This is the best DIY liquid hand soap I have found for creating an all-natural cleaning routine for your home!

1/8 cup. Castile Soap (I usually add more than this, but 1/8th is what is recommended by Dr. Bronner’s.)

2.5 cups Water

10-15 Drops Essential Oil  or more to your liking.  I use about 30 drops of my primary oil and 15 of my secondary oil)

Reusable Soap Dispenser

Fill a  soap dispenser with about 2.5 cups water.

Pour in 1/8-1/4 cup castile soap. The amount depends on how much you would like the soap to suds up.

Finish with your essential oils.

QUEEN TIP:  Add a splash of vitamin E oil or liquid coconut oil for added moisture 

ALL PURPOSE CLEANER

2 cups white vinegar

2 cups water

1 teaspoon natural dish soap (NOT castile soap) *

30 drops essential oils – more to your liking

Mix all ingredients in a quart-sized spray bottle. Shake to combine. Spray and wipe on counters, cabinets, sinks, toilets, and anywhere else.

*NEVER use castile soap when combining with vinegar in any solution.  The do not combine and will become an oily glutinous mess.

WINDOW and MIRROR CLEANER

3 cups distilled water

1/4 cup rubbing alcohol or vodka

1/4 cup vinegar

20 drops of your Signature Scent essential oils

Combine all ingredients in a quart-sized spray bottle. Shake to combine, then spray on mirrors, windows, or stainless steel. Wipe off with paper towels or microfiber cloths.

DAILY SHOWER SPRAY

1.5 cups water

1 cup white vinegar

1/2 cup rubbing alcohol

1 teaspoon liquid dish soap (not castile soap)

About 30 drops of your signature scent oils.

Combine in a quart-sized spray bottle. Spray daily on shower door and walls after use (this is a preventative spray, designed to help prevent build-up)

TUB AND SHOWER CLEANER

1 cup white vinegar

1/2 cup natural dishwashing liquid (not castile soap)

Squeeze bottle

Heat the vinegar in a small saucepan on the stove until hot (but not boiling). Carefully stir the dishwashing soap in until combined, then pour into the squeeze bottle. Squirt onto shower and tub, and allow to sit for 1-3 hours. Wipe off with a scrubber or sponge. I’ve tried many, many DIY shower cleaning recipes, and this is the ONLY one that will easily remove scum from the tub without requiring a ton of elbow grease on my part.

SIGNATURE SCENTS OF HOTELS AND SPECIALTY STORES

WILLIAMS SONOMA

 
Rosemary Oil, Lemon Oil, Vanilla Extract,Crushed Black Peppercorns

RITZ CARLTON

elderflower, mountain mint, and ripe strawberries.

W HOTELS

W Hotels around the world use a signature spray to create a relaxed vibe in their guest rooms. Guests can buy the spray to take home the scents of lemon blossoms, laurel, and green tea.

Westin was one of the first hotel chains to have a signature scent. Theirs blends white tea, vanilla, and wood cedar.

FINAL THOUGHT

You can use as many essential oils as you like to achieve your signature.  Start with no more than 3 and build from there.  Many times, 2 oils, a primary and a secondary are all you need. Your primary oil is your top note of fragrance.  The secondary, third, etc. compliment it.

*WARNING... Certain oils and products might harm dogs, cats and other animals. Please read the label before using any product(s).

As seen LIVE on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 12/12/22 at 8:45am

HOLIDAY SPEED CLEANING

This quick little guide will let you race through the house in minutes before guests arrive. The house will smell good too, not like cleaning chemicals, but good and fresh.

THE CLUTTER BASKET

Keep a laundry basket handy.  Zoom through the house with the basket going room to room.  Remove anything that doesn’t go in that room and put it in the basket.  Continue through the entire house and then put the basket in a closet out of sight until later.  Clutter gone, house is tidy!  A tidy house always looks clean.

BATHROOM 5 MINUTE CLEAN

Where do people have the most time to privately look over your house?  It’s the bathroom. Clean it.  It’s quick and easy.

First have some microfiber cloths handy.  They are antimicrobial and antibacterial.  Teamed with this easy bathroom cleaner your bathroom will shine.

QUICK FIX BATHROOM CLEANER                      

In a spray bottle use a funnel to put these ingredients right into the bottle.  No extra dishes.

• ½ - cup White Vinegar
• ½ - cup Vodka
• 10 drops of lavender essential oil
• 10 drops of lemon essential oil
• 1 – ½ cup of water.

Shake the bottle prior to spraying.  Spray all and any hard surfaces.  Let it sit for 5 or 10 minutes to do the cleaning, and then wipe with a clean microfiber cloth.   The bathroom will shine and smell clean too.

PEPPERMINT GLASS AND MIRROR CLEANER

• 2 – Cups Water
• 2 Tablespoons White Vinegar
• 2 Tablespoons Rubbing Alcohol
• 5 – 10 drops Peppermint Essential Oil

Put in a spray bottle, shake and spray.  Wipe with a microfiber cloth. 

If you only make one cleaner, make this one and use it on all the hard surfaces too.

DUSTING SPRAY – Cleans and Repels Dust

In a Spray Bottle Combine:

2 – Cups Water

1 Tablespoon Olive Oil

3 Drops Liquid Dish Soap

¼ cup White Vinegar

10 Drops Essential Oil (citrus is especially nice for this)

Shake before use.  Lightly mist surface or spray microfiber cloth.  Wipe and buff.

This not only captures dust, it also repels dust.

Be sure to label your bottle “Dusting Spray”

VACUUM

Grab the vacuum and vacuum the floors where people will be.

Go over hard floors with the vacuum or a microfiber mop to pick up dust, lint and pet hair.

Relax.  Once people gather no one is looking at your floors.  If you have a good time others will too.  I guarantee you, your guests are so happy to be at someone’s house besides theirs, they won’t notice anything but what a saint you are!

Happy Holidays from my Palace to yours!

As seen LIVE on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 12/5/22 at 8:45am

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE FROM THE QUEEN OF CLEAN

Some of these are gifts, some are stocking stuffers.  All of them will make someone’s life easier. 

A link is provided to read more about each item and purchase if you'd like.

MICROFIBER MOP

Save time and energy with the fantastic MICROFIBER MOP

It is perfect for ANY hard floor surface even marble.  It will not leave residue that smears.

The handle is telescoping which creates a comfort level for anyone using it.  From the petite to the tall, adjust it to shoulder height and you’re ready to mop.

The microfiber pads Velcro easily to the mop and won’t fall off

The pads are machine washable.  Clean mop each time equals clean floor

Buy It HERE

VAPAMORE STEAM CLEANING SYSTEM

I have tested steam cleaners repeatedly and this is the best of the best.  I use it in my own palace.

This is a complete steam cleaner and you can do all the hard surfaces in your home with it.  Follow this link for complete information on it and also a video and order info.

Buy It HERE

MICROFIBER CLOTHS

These are the royal jewels of microfiber.  A full 16” square, They lay flat after washing and are up to any cleaning task.  Use alone with water or your product of choice. 

Buy It HERE

LAUNDRY BASKET – Like Nothing You Have Seen Before

When in use, it’s a sturdy large laundry basket.  When you’re done, collapse it and hang it up or store anywhere flat. Mine hangs on the wall behind the door in the laundry room. Two to a pack.

Buy It HERE

WOOL DRYER BALLS

These are adorable and work great!  These are Wooly Heros with faces on each ball.  I love the owls!

Buy It HERE

SCENT THEM UP

Natural scents to use with your dryer balls for beautifully scented laundry. Safe for you and your dryer balls.

Buy It HERE

REPEL™ GLASS AND SURFACE CLEANER

No cleaning product like it!  Spray and clean, with one bottle, all the hard surfaces in your home. What makes this different?  It cleans and leaves behind a an incredible layer of protection that won’t allow mineral deposits, soap scum, dirt, grease or anything else penetrate and stick.  Use it on  granite, marble, all your hard surfaces.  A miracle in the shower and on glass.

Buy It HERE

MAGIC BUCKET – Now You See It, Now You Don’t

Great for the house, the garage, the workshop, the pool, any area.  It’s a full size bucket but when you are ready to store it, it collapses flat!

Buy It HERE

VAC-U-FLEX – Attachment For Your Vacuums

One of my favorite tools, that I use in my own home, is VaccUFlex.  I was amazed by it.  It is so versatile for indoor and outdoor use.  Get into those areas you had to previously spend hours on or ignore.  It turns your own vacuum or shop vacuum into a sucking machine.  It concentrates suction creating power when and where you need it. Dirty chandelier, crevices in sofas, chairs and recliners where crumbs and dirt hide, car seats, everywhere there is dirt and debris – no problem with VaccUFlex.  Who doesn’t’ want to work smarter not harder.   I do the research so you don’t have to.  VaccUFlex gets my Seal of Approval!  

Buy It HERE

As seen LIVE on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 11/28/22 at 8:42am

TIS THE SEASON FOR QUICK and EASY CLEANUP

Quick fixes for all those messy holiday problems.

BURNED ON FOOD IN CASSEROLE OR PAN

Just fill it with hottest tap water and drop in a new or used dryer fabric softener sheet.  Let is sit for a hour or so or overnight.  The mess will pour out and you will be left with just washing and rinsing the container.

CLEAN THE INSIDE OF THE MICROWAVE

Put a cup of water and a tablespoon or two of lemon juice or vinegar in a small bow.  Bring it to a boil and then shut off the microwave and let sit for 15 minutes.  Open the door, wipe out with a damp cloth and you are done.

REMOVE RESIDUE AND STAINS FROM NON-STICK COOKWARE

Boil 2 Tablespoons of baking soda, and a cup or two (depending on pan size) of water in the pan.  Let it sit for 15 minutes or so and then wash and rinse. Season the pan with a little cooking oil rubbed in with a paper towel.

CLEAN THE BROILER PAN EASILY

Sprinkle the pan, while still warm, heavily with dry laundry detergent or automatic dishwasher detergent. Cover the pan with wet paper towels and let it soak at least several hours.  If the towels dry out spray with hot water or pour some on.  The pan should only require light scrubbing with dish soap when done. I pick up powder automatic dishwasher detergent at the $$ Store for these type of problems.

RED WINE ON FABRIC or UPHOLSTERY

When you serve red wine always serve white wine too.  As long as the sofa can be cleaned with water you can blot on some white wine to neutralize the white wine.  If you don’t have white wine then blot on club soda.  The carbonation will bubble up the spill and the salts will keep it from staining.

A PRODUCT TO BUY:  Wine Away Red Wine Stain Remover.  It works every time!  Buy It HERE

CANDLES DRIPPED WAX ON WOOD

Turn your blower dryer on high and air it on an angle at the wax.  Take a dull straight edge and pop up the wax as you heat it with the blow dryer.  Go over the area with a little oil (cooking, baby, lemon – what you have on hand) and an old cloth to remove residue.

As seen LIVE on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 11/21/22 at 8:45am

THANKSGIVING QUICK TIPS - 2022

Quick Tips To Keep It Easy

• Make sure you have disposable cooking pans on hand. Warehouse stores sell Steam Pans that equal a 9 x 13 pan very inexpensively.  Save the messy clean up by using these and tossing after your dinner.  Doing a buffet?  Cook and serve in the same pan.  Great for sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, and many other foods.

• Line a large bowl with double grocery plastic bags. This is where you will put all the peelings and scraps as you cook.  It’s faster than trying to shove them down the disposal and since lots of carrot and potato peels can clog the disposal, you won’t have to worry about that mess.  When you’re done, tie and toss.  No mess and no smells.

• Make what you can ahead. Do your mashed potatoes and  on serving day put a crockpot liner in your crockpot, set them on low and let them warm, stirring occasionally. Toss the liner when you’re done.

• Prepare your gravy earlier in the day then warm and put in a thermos to keep it hot and ready to serve. You’ll have one less pan on the stove.

• Prevent oven spills by placing a baking sheet under your dishes if they may overflow or bubble over.

• If you have a cooking pan with stuck on food, fill with hot water and add a teaspoon of automatic dishwasher detergent or drop in a fabric softener sheet. Both will soften the grip of the food and allow you to dump the mess and wash easily.

• Prepare for a smoking oven. Things run over, it starts to smoke and smell.  Stop it instantly by pouring a heavy coat of table salt over the mess.  Smoking and smell stops instantly and later, when the oven is cool, you can lift the mess off with a spatula.

• Have storage dishes ready to go. When someone offers to help clan up, hand them the containers and let them start storing the leftovers.

• Have several large bottles of club soda on hand. It is the OOPS – I can’t believe I spilled that spotter.  Pour it on the spills and the carbonation will bubble up spills so you can blot them up and the salts will keep things from staining.  Red wine spill….pour white wine on it and blot, blot, blot.

  ---

As seen LIVE on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 11/7/22 at 8:45am

LEATHER CLEANING

These methods work on clothes, shoes, boots and furniture including auto interiors

For  general cleaning use some water, a squirt of mild soap or shampoo, and a few drops of white vinegar. Dampen a cloth with this mixture before wiping down the leather.  Buff with a soft cloth.  I suggest a microfiber cloth.

DOVE-Type Bar Soap rubbed on a damp microfiber cloth will also work well. Apply and work in well to remove dirt.  Keep your cloth rinsed and re-apply the soap as needed.  Buff with a soft cloth.

DIY LEATHER CLEANER – Great for leather clothes and shoes/boots

1 part mild facial soap

8 parts water

Mix in spray bottle

Spray cloth and work into leather, changing cloths as needed.  Buff with a soft cloth when done.

DIY LEATHER STAIN REMOVER

1 part Lemon Juice

1 part Cream of Tartar

Mix both to a soft paste

Apply with microfiber cloth

Mix into a creamy paste. Work it into the stain with a soft cloth. If the stain isn’t completely gone, let it sit for a few hours before applying the mixture again. When the stain is removed, wipe clean and spread on a leather conditioner

REMOVING INK FROM LEATHER

Pen ink is a dye so that it will stain leather extremely fast. Unfortunately, your leather is also dyed, so any product that dissolves the ink can also dissolve the color of your leather. If you can afford it, hire a professional.

For small stains or for individuals on a budget, rubbing alcohol can help.

Make sure to test the rubbing alcohol on a small spot first to make sure that it does not damage the leather.

Using a cotton ball or cotton swab, apply some rubbing alcohol onto the ink stain. Use circular motions to rub it into the stain gently.

Give it time for the stain to begin to disappear. Since this will remove some of the leather’s moisture, make sure to apply leather conditioner afterward.

SNOW and SALT STAINS on SHOES and BOOTS

Combine 2 parts white vinegar and 1 Part water. Apply to the soiled areas and let sit a few minutes.  Reapply and rub to remove stains, and then follow with a leather conditioner

DIY LEATHER CONDITIONERS

Vinegar/Olive Oil Conditioner

If you do not want to use a commercial product, you can make your own leather conditioner.

Add one part vinegar with two parts virgin olive oil.

Mix this in a jar with a tight lid by adding the ingredients, closing the jar with the lid and shaking the jar vigorously.

 Apply this solution to your leather with a clean cloth and let it set overnight, then buff leather with a clean cloth. You must buff well to remove excess oil. 

Coconut Oil Conditioner

You can also condition leather with coconut oil; it's hypoallergenic and won't spoil. Clean the leather first, using one of the cleaning methods. Rub in the oil with a soft rag.

Allow to sit an hour or so and then buff firmly with dry microfiber cloths.  Be sure to buff well to remove all surface conditioner.

BEST LEATHER CLEANER AND CONDTIONER YOU CAN BUY

Leather CPR® has been my go-to leather cleaner for years.  It cleans AND conditions without harsh chemicals.  It also helps to remove stains.  Find it on Amazon   CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE

As seen LIVE on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 10/31/22 at 8:45am

ESSENTIAL OIL CLEANER

3/4 – Cup Water

¼ - Cup Rubbing Alcohol

8– 12 drops peppermint, spearmint, lemon or orange essential oil

1 – Good squirt dish soap

Pour all the ingredients into a 16-oz or larger spray bottle – label

Shake well before each use.

Spray and wipe with a microfiber cloth

This works on Quartz, marble and granite counters.  You can also use it on appliances, tables, in the bathroom, and also on baseboards and window sills.

It is not for glass

As seen LIVE on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 10/24/22 at 8:45am

SWEATERS

AMAZING SWEATER HANGING HACK

We all know that if you hang your sweaters you end up with it stretching and those nasty shoulder dimples sticking up.

This folding hack will put a stop to that and also clear out drawer space where your sweaters use to be.

First lay your sweater flat and smooth it out.  Fold the sweater in half vertically so that the sleeves are stacked on top of one another.  Place your hanger so that the hook portion is between the sweater body and arms.

Fold the body of the sweater over the hanger and tuck underneath the bottom of the hanger.  Repeat with the sleeves.  

That’s all.  Easy and done.   Now you can hang your sweaters up without worrying about damaging them.  It’s so much easier to pick out a sweater when you can easily see them.  

 I want to share with you some easy ways to keep your sweaters clean, fresh and new looking and also how to take the itch out of wool sweaters.  AND – What to do if you shrunk your sweater!

CASHMERE:  Cashmere should be cared for as you would care for your hair.  Hand wash it in cool water with a good squirt of shampoo.  Gently squeeze the suds through it and then squeeze it out but don’t wring.  Put into a rinse of cool water and again squeeze it rather than wringing.  Do a second rinse of clear cool water.  Gently squeeze out the water you can and then roll in a towel to remove as much water as you can.  Reshape and dry flat out of the sunlight.

BLENDS:  These are sweaters with cotton, polyester and other fibers.  If they say “washable” on the care label here is what to do.  Turn them inside out and wash in cool water on a gentle cycle in the washer.  Dry as indicted on the care tag.  If you put them in the dryer, leave them wrong side out until you fold them.

EMBELLISHED:  Sweaters that are washable with beading, sequins, etc. on them need special care.  Always hand wash these and if you have a “hand wash” feature on your washing machine, put the sweater, turned to the wrong side, in a delicate or lingerie bag.  Use a gentle detergent and a liquid fabric softener.  Dry according to directions.

KEEPING WOOL ITCH-FREE:  Many times sweaters containing wool can be itchy when it comes into contact with skin.  To eliminate this issue wash as directed on the care label but use a rinse containing a few tablespoons of glycerin.  Find glycerin in the hand cream section at the drug store.  This will keep the garment soft and prevent itching.

PILLS ON SWEATERS:  Use an inexpensive disposable razor to “shave” away the little balls of yarn.  Don’t push down hard on the razor, just lightly go over it.

HELP! I SHRUNK MY SWEATER!

Here’s how to resize the sweater you shrunk. 

Use baby shampoo and warm water.  Fill a basin with warm water, add a couple of squirts of baby shampoo and swish with your hand. 

Lay the sweater right on top of the water and allow it to sink on its own. Do not force it down into the water.

 Soak for 15 minutes. 

Gently take the sweater out without wringing it and put it in a container, then fill the basin again with clean water. 

Lay the sweater on top and let it sink again on its own.  If there is a lot of suds, repeat this.

Take the sweater out, place it on a towel and roll the towel to remove most of the moisture. 

Lay the sweater on a dry towel on a flat surface and gently reshape it.  Check the sweater as it is drying to continue reshaping as needed. 

As seen LIVE on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 10/17/22 at 8:45am

HALLOWEEN CLEAN UP

Rotten Pumpkin

A pumpkin sitting on a hard surface inside or outside, will most likely leave behind a moldy black stain as it decomposes. Many times you won’t notice it until it is too late

To remove it, dampen a microfiber cloth with warm water and a squirt of toothpaste, then rub it on the stain in small circles until it lifts.

Another way to remove mold from concrete is to apply a bleach solution, laundry detergent, and water to the affected area, scrub it with a brush, and rinse it clean with a sponge indoors, or hose or power washer if outside

Preventing the problem is easy.  Sit your pumpkin on a plate or other container to keep it from staining wood or cement surfaces.

Chocolate

Carefully scrape off as much of the chocolate as possible without grinding the stain deeper into the fabric. Apply stain remover and wash. Wash again if necessary with fabric- or color-safe bleach. If you have a stubborn spot,  wet the spot and work in some Fels Naptha Laundry Bar Soap and then sprinkle with Borax.  Work in well.  Launder as usual.

Lipstick and oil-based Halloween makeup

Dab a small amount of makeup remover or rubbing alcohol on inside seam to test the fabric for color-safeness. If the color hasn’t changed after 10 minutes, use a washcloth to dampen the stain with remover or alcohol. Dab the stain with a dry paper towel until it no longer picks up any makeup. Treat with stain remover and wash in warm water. Re-treat and rewash if the stain remains.

Costume Makeup Smears On Car and Upholstery

Commercial carpet cleaner can remove costume makeup smears from a seat or carpet in a snap. Apply it using a microfiber cloth on a hidden spot first to see that the upholstery's color doesn’t bleed. If nothing comes off onto your cloth, use it to blot (not rub) the stain away.

Chewing gum 

Rub an ice cube over the stain until it freezes and hardens. Scrape off as much of the hardened gum as you can without rubbing it deeper into the fabric.  Use Carbona Stain Devils for Gum according to directions.  Find this in the laundry spotter aisle.  They are small yellow bottles for different types of stains. Look for the one that says “gum”.

 Hair dye

For bleach-safe fabrics, soak the item in a mixture of ¼ cup chlorine bleach to a gallon of cold water. After 30 minutes rinse and wash. For other fabrics, replace the bleach with a cup of ammonia. Stretch the stained area over a bucket and pour solution onto it, then rinse and wash.

To get any color staining out of hair, mix baking soda with your shampoo and wash well.

Glitter

The fairies, princesses, and ballerinas who visited your home on their candy-collecting mission may have left behind a dusting of glitter notorious for hanging around months later. Rather than trying to wipe it away with a wet paper towel, swipe a lint roller anywhere you see sparkles.

As seen LIVE on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 10/10/22 at 8:45am

DRYER BALLS

This is one of my best natural and budget friendly tips – you do not need to spend one more cent on dryer sheets. All you have to do is take aluminum foil, ball it up, and place it in the dryer with wet clothes.

It will remove static and it does NOT need to be changed each time.

Simply pull off a very large sheet of aluminum foil and roll it into a tightly compacted ball.

The size of your dryer foil ball should be about the size of a softball and be sure to ball it up very tightly.

You can use the same ball for at least 6 months.

I make up to 6 - 8 balls at a time and, depending on the load, I toss in 3 to 6 of the balls.  Not only does it eliminate static, it also helps to speed drying.

JUST SAY NO TO WRINKLES and IRONING

You can avoid using your iron altogether by hanging your clothes up right when you take them out of the dryer.

Unfortunately, that can be easier said than done. 

Instead, dampen a towel and throw it in the dryer with the wrinkled clothes for 10 to 15 minutes. By putting moisture back into the clothes they will come out wrinkle free.

You can also toss in a good handful of ice and turn the dryer on.  It creates steam that will remove wrinkles.

You can mist some of the clothes with water  and toss them back in the dryer.  This also creates wrinkle removing steam

All of these things will let you kiss your iron goodbye!

BONUS TIP:   Tossing a dry, fluffy bath towel into the dryer with your wet clothes can make them dry faster. It helps absorb and remove moisture from the clothes.

DRYER SCENT BOOSTER

Take white cotton squares  approximately 6 x 6 or use white washcloths.  Lay them out on a hard, washable surface.  I lay a sheet of aluminum foil down for easy clean up and treat several at a time.

Shake the essential oil(s) of your choice across the cloth.  If you want more scent use more drops, less, use fewer drops. 

Pick up each cloth and wring it tightly in your hands.  This spreads out the essential oil.  Put the cloths in a labeled covered container. 

Toss one in each dryer load of clothes.

 Lavender is awesome for bedding, also try citrus.  Look for spicy scents for a more masculine smell and your favorite scent for yourself. 

Each cloth may be used about 5 - 6 times.  When they no longer are scented, dry and start over.

As seen LIVE on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 10/3/22 at 8:45am

DOES IT WORK??

PRODUCT TEST, BATHROOM DIY HELP.

I haven’t done a product DOES IT WORK segment in a long time, but over the last 7 – 8 months I have been using a product called REPEL® which is made by an Arizona company, Unelko Corporation. They were the inventors of Rain-X.  This product has some Rain-X properties, but it is 100 times better and does so much more.  I honestly am blown away by REPEL.  It’s like magic in a spray bottle.

• REPEL Cleans & Repels water spots and dirt on glass, mirror, tile and other hard surfaces
• It cleans to a streak-free shine with a dual action formula that repels water, soil, grime and fingerprints
• Enhanced with new  technology, surface cleaning and shielding  provides excellent water-beading. Your hard to clean areas like showers, glass shower doors and cook tops will have a non-stick finish!
• Keeps glass & other hard surfaces “looking new”, shiny and preserved. Perfect for windows, shower glass, mirrors, wall tile, bath surrounds, acrylic, and chrome fixtures (safe on all hard surfaces).
• Prevents hard water spots, soap scum & body oils from penetrating the surfaces that make them so hard to clean.
• Helps make cleaning so much easier!
• Free of any harsh chemicals.

I use it on all my bathroom surfaces, kitchen surfaces, including my cooktop, and stainless steel appliances.  My granite counters look new.  After dinner I wipe off my cooktop with a damp microfiber cloth.  No scraping and scrubbing. Once a week or as needed I do my cleaning with REPEL.

Remember, I did the research so you don’t have too! 

To Purchase: CLICK HERE

I have had a lot of questions about bathroom mold and mildew so I want to answer a couple of questions.

KEEPING THE BATHROOM MIRROR FROM FOGGING

This is a great way to clean the mirror and keep it from fogging up too

Spray old fashion white shave cream on the mirror

Use a paper towel or cloth to wipe off and buff

Repeat as needed or when mirror starts fogging again

*Gel Shave Cream will not work

NATURAL MOLD REMOVER

This is wonderful for the shower or tub where mold collects. It’s natural and non-toxic.

Combine in a labeled spray bottle:

2 cups water

2 teaspoons Tea Tree Oil

Spray on the mold or mildew area.  Let sit 15 minutes then wipe.  If stain persists, re-spray and rub with a nail brush or put a few drops undiluted Tea Tree Oil on the mold and wait 30 minutes then brush and rinse.

BLEACH PEN FOR MOLD AND MILDEW

A bleach pen for laundry stain removal is great for small isolated areas of mold.  Simply dab it firmly on the airs covering completely.  Let sit – even overnight.  Rinse well.

As seen LIVE on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 9/19/22 at 8:45am

MAGIC JEAN HACKS

People are wearing jeans that cost so much that they want them to last.  How you care for them is important.  People ask me about cleaning jeans all the time.  Here’s some quick jean magic!

BIGGEST QUESTION:  How often should I wash my jeans.  Denim is a rugged fabric that doesn’t need washing each time you wear it.  To avoid fading and wear on your jeans, the less you wash them the better.

In terms of when to wash them, it really depends on how much you've worn them and what you've been doing in them. If they smell, are visibly dirty, or have gotten stretched out or are sagging at the knees, they're probably due for a spin in the washing machine. Even if they don't, remember that most laundry soil is invisible ( that would mean skin, body oil, sweat, etc. is there even if you don't see it) and aim to wash your jeans maybe every 5-10 times you wear them. This is the recommend of the jean manufacturing experts.  NOTE: If you are a no underwear person, wash each wearing.

TIPS FOR WASHING:  How you wash them matters.

Wash them inside out to prevent wear and fading.

Use cold water.

Use the gentle cycle on your washer.

Use gentle detergent made for dark fabrics or something like Dr Bonners Castile Soap. Don’t use a detergent with additives such as bleach and softener.  Bleach will remove the color – even all-fabric bleach – and softener will coat the fibers.  This will distort fit and increase odor.

Use ½ cup of white vinegar in the rinse. You can put it right in the softener dispenser.  This will give the jeans a softness, helps with any odors and also helps with fading.

Got Grease?  Salad dressing spills, pizza plops?  Sprinkle with cornstarch or talcum powder.  Lay a paper towel over it and weight it down overnight. Brush if off, pretreat with laundry spotter and launder as you normally do.

TIME FOR A PERK UP:

When you wash new jeans for the first time, toss in old jeans.  Start the washer, using your regular laundry detergent, and then stop and let soak an hour or so, or even overnight.  Complete the wash cycle.  The new jeans will add dye to the old jeans giving them new life.

QUICK EASY COLOR ADDITIVE:

Use Mrs. Stewarts Bluing.  This is normally used in very small amounts to make whites optically whiter.  Used properly you can also add blue color and depth to tired jeans.

Follow the directions on the bottle for diluting the bluing prior to adding to the washer.  Instead of the amount of bluing suggested on the bottle, use 1 teaspoon of bluing mixed with 1 quart of water.  DO NOT add bluing directly to the machine.  If using a front loaded let the water fill up and then pause the machine and add the diluted bluing and resume the cycle immediately.  For a top load washer let it fill with water and then add the diluted bluing. Double rinse the jeans.  When you are done, run the washer through a cycle with ½ cup of chlorine bleach.  Check for any splatters and wipe them up too.

Bring out the big guns:  Do you really want to make your jeans look almost new again?  Dye them.  The secret here is to use 1 bottle of navy or denim dye and ½ bottle of black dye to get a good dark wash that doesn’t look fake. Follow the bottle directions.  Do a double rinse and add ½ white vinegar to the final rinse.  Find fabric dye at grocery stores, and big box stores. Be sure you clean the machine when you are done so you don’t transfer any dye to other clothes.

GOT STINK?  If your jeans are smelling a little less than fresh hang them up and mist with vodka and allow to dry.  The strong alcohol will banish smells.

Freeze them. Put them in a plastic bag and freeze for 24 hours.  This doesn’t remove odor, but it does kill a lot of the bacteria that causes the odor.

You can also toss them in the dryer on warm to get them back in shape some.  If you have a “steam fresh” cycle that will work too.   The ‘Air Fluff” or “Air Only” cycle will also freshen them.

As seen LIVE on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 9/12/22 at 8:45am

CLEANING WITH AUTOMATIC DISHWASHER DETERGENT

For these tips you can use powder, tablet, gel or liquid automatic dishwasher detergent.  Just use the measurement used for a load of dishes. Don’t forget to check the $$$ Store for inexpensive product.

All-Purpose Cleaner

Dishwasher detergent breaks up and washes away grease, oil and dirt particles, making it an effective ingredient in a homemade all-purpose cleaner.

Combine 2 teaspoons of dishwasher detergent with 2 cups of hot water, mix well to dissolve and pour the solution into a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto a clean cloth and wipe off the area that needs cleaning. Rinse and dry. This solution is safe enough to use on the exterior and interior of household appliances, vinyl floors, painted surfaces and glass.

Laundry Soap Booster

Dishwasher detergent also makes a great laundry soap booster because it typically contains chlorine bleach to help it break down food particles and stains. Treat dingy white fabrics by filling a plastic container with 1/2 cup of dishwasher detergent, 1/4 cup of chlorine bleach and 1 gallon of hot water. Combine the ingredients, place the garments into the solution and soak them for at least 15 minutes before running them through their usual cycles in your washing machine. Allow the solution to cool down first if you're treating knit or delicate fabrics. Avoid using this solution to treat any kind of fabric that bleach can damage.

Bathtub Stain Remover

Automatic dishwasher detergent can also get rid of stains in your bathroom. Add a little detergent to the toilet bowl, allow it to sit for a few minutes and scrub the stains away with a toilet brush. Get rid of bathtub stains by pouring about 1/4 cup of powdered detergent into a plastic or glass container. Add just enough water to make a thick paste and apply the solution directly to the stained area with a clean rag or sponge. Gently scrub the paste into the stain and allow it to stand for about 20 minutes. Rinse your tub well with warm water and buff dry with a soft, clean cloth.

Remove Crayon, Pencil and Scuff Marks From Walls and Floors

Combine 1 dishwasher tablet with 1 gallon of hot water, use damp rag or sponge dipped in solution to gently wipe away.

Whiten Whites

Add 1 dishwasher tablet or 1/2 cup dishwasher detergent to washing machine.

Clean Jacuzzi Tub

Add 1 dishwasher tablet to a tub full of hot water and turn on the jets to clean the areas you can’t get to with your normal tub scrubbing.

Clean Toilets

Drop one tablet into the toilet bowl and allow it to dissolve, then scrub and flush.

Wash Patio Furniture

 Dissolve 1 tablet in a bucket of hot water and use the solution to wipe away dirt, mildew, and pollen.

Remove Car Leak Stains from Driveway

Make a thick paste of dishwasher detergent and warm water and scrub into stain from oil or transmission fluid. Let it sit for an hour or so and then rinse with garden hose. Don’t do this in the direct sun or hot weather.

Glass Coffeepot

Sprinkle a little automatic dishwasher detergent in a glass coffee pot with a little hot water.  Use a bottle brush to wash, rinse and you’re done.

Clean oven racks. 

Mix a ¼ cup of dishwasher detergent in a quart of hot water.  Place racks in a sturdy garbage bag and wrap in paper towels.  Pour the solution over them, let soak overnight in the garage or outside.  Be aware that the bag could leak.  Next morning, take a brush and brush them firmly, rinse and put back in over.  Turn the oven on to 350 degrees for 15 minutes.  Turn off and you are done.

Use it to clean baby clothes

Let the water get hot, dissolve the dishwasher detergent and let the clothes and diapers soak in it for a few hours then wash as usual.  This can be done in a bucket or in the washer. 

  Another way is to make a paste, rub onto the stain, let sit for a few minutes, then lay the garment in the sink, and pour boiling water over the garment, and let sit until cool enough to handle. Rinse well and wash as usual.

As seen on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 8/15/22 at 8:45am

WOOD FURNITURE TRICKS and TIPS  

What’s Up With Furniture Polish??

Using the wrong furniture polish on furniture can actually cause damage and here’s a misconception; furniture polish  doesn’t clean anything! It will, however, dull the finish and leave a build-up on your furniture over time. So you might want to leave store-bought furniture polish out of your cleaning kit.

How To Remove the Build-up of Furniture Polish on Your Wood

If you find your wood is dull from a build up of furniture polish, you’ll see a haze or streaks you can’t get rid of.  If you want a quick and inexpensive way to remove the film simply steep two bags of black tea for 10 minutes in boiling water ( Don’t use flavored, herbal or sweet tea).  Let the tea cool, and then immerse a clean cotton cloth into the tea.  Wet your cloth well and then begin to wipe.  The tannins in the tea will break down that dull, waxy finish to reveal the wood’s natural beauty. Repeat as needed, not letting the wood surface stay wet too long.  Buff with a microfiber cloth.

You can also sprinkle a little cornstarch on the wood and buff it in well to remove a light amount of excess polish.

DIY Furniture Polish

This is a wonderful, natural polish that you can use on all wood except wood that isn’t sealed.

In a labeled spray bottle combine 1 cup of olive oil with ¼ cup of white vinegar.  The oil moisturizes the wood and the vinegar cleans it.  Shake the bottle well and spray the polish onto a soft cloth.  An old wash cloth works well.  Apply in a buffing motion to the wood furniture.  Remember, you don’t need to use this all the time, just when the wood looks lackluster.  Using it too often will create a build-up that can attract dirt and dust.  I suggest no more than once a month.

Removing Water Stains and Rings.

Combine olive oil and salt into a paste that will cover the ring.  Apply it to the white ring and massage it in well, working in a circular direction.  Let the olive oil/salt paste sit for 4 hours or even overnight and then wipe it off. If the ring is gone, polish the area and you’re done.

If you can still see a little white, simply reapply the paste and let it sit again.  Wipe and buff.

For a deep ring try working in a little non-gel toothpaste and buff it firmly with a soft cloth.  Use a damp cloth to remove the paste and then use the olive oil and salt mixture.

Removing Ink Marks

Combine 1 Tablespoon of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of water so that it is a thin paste.  Apply to the stain and rub it gently in with a soft cloth until the stain disappears.

 Best Dusting Tools

A micro fiber cloth - Buy Microfiber cloths HERE

A Lambswool duster

Cotton Fabrics, like tee shirts

Scratch Touch-Ups

Use an appropriate colored scratch cover stick.

Old English makes a wonderful scratch cover that you can go over the entire piece with.  It comes in dark and light colors.  Look at home centers, hardware stores or online for it.

Use a walnut to cover scratches.  Break it in two and use the exposed center to rub the scratch firmly.

A crayon will work too especially on deeper scratches.  Warm the area you are working on with a blow dryer and then rub the scratch with a similar colored crayon or mix several crayons together.  Heat it again and rub with a throw-away cloth.

REMOVING BODY ODOR SMELL IN WORKOUT CLOTHES

As seen on: 3TV/phoenix (GMAZ) 8/15/22 at 8:45am

Technical fabrics are great for workouts and running because they wick away your sweat but, unfortunately, the bacteria, that causes the smell, gets trapped in the fibers and can be hard to get out.

First, some general laundry tips.  Keep your worn workout clothes in a separate hamper from other clothes.  Don’t spread the stink! Hanging them in the outside air helps prior to washing if possible.  Crumpled clothes hold odor in.

Turn them wrong side out prior to washing.

If you are prone to underarm staining moisten the area and work in Fels Naptha Bar Soap before you launder.

Do they really stink?  Run them through a rinse cycle with ½ cup of white vinegar prior to washing them.

Tech Fabrics like cool water.  Don’t use hot or even warm. 

Here are a couple of tricks that work and a new product to try:

Using baking soda helps. Pre-soak your clothes in a solution of water and Arm and Hammer Super Washing Soda (in the laundry additive area). Use the pre-soak setting on the washing machine or do it in a separate container. Then launder as usual.

White vinegar is an inexpensive and cheap odor remover. Soak your running clothes in a cup or two of vinegar mixed with plain water. Then wash as usual. Or, pour 1/4 to 1/2 cup of white vinegar into the wash (along with your regular detergent).

DEFUNKIFY is a product for washing active wear.  It launders and deodorizes.  I have had great success with it.  One small container (20 oz.) will do 28 loads of laundry. It is guaranteed to wash the funk out! 

To purchase DEFUNKIFY: BUY IT HERE

DIRTY LAUNDRY BOMB

Dirty clothes hampers can become pretty fragrant with dirty smelly socks, workout clothes and other fabrics waiting for laundry day.  I use a Hamper Bomb to keep the smell from creating stinky air in the room it is in.

Take a clean, old sock and put a cup or so of dry rice in it.  Add about 20 drops (more if you like) of essential oil.  I usually use lavender or orange, but you can use any oil you like.  Shake it up and then tie shut.

Drop this in the bottom of your laundry hamper.  The rice will absorb dampness and odor and the essential oil will lightly add fragrance.

QUEEN TIP:  When storing seasonal clothes, use this same bomb in plastic storage containers to keep fabrics dry and smelling fresh.  For wool clothes use orange essential oil.  Insects are deterred by the orange odor.

SAY GOODBYE TO MOSQUITOS

As seen on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 8/8/22 at 8:50am

Mosquito Spray Repellent for Yard and Patio

Total honesty here! I don’t know why this repellent works, but it totally does.  And, what’s not to like?  It’s safe, natural, won’t harm kids or pets and won’t kill any other insects.  It just repels mosquitos!

Mix it up, put it in a sprayer and spray your yard, your patio area and take it along to outdoor parties to keep those nasty bugs away!  Your host will thank you. 

1 Large bottle of cheap blue mouthwash 

Buy it: HERE

3 cups Epsom Salts

3 bottles of cheap beer, opened and allowed to go stale

Mix the ingredients together well, making sure to dissolve the Epsom salts really well

Use a sprayer to spray your yard, patio, and any area you want to deter mosquitos

This will last about 80 days depending on the severity of rain.  Re-spray as needed.

DIY Mosquito Repellent Spray for Body #1

This natural homemade mosquito repellent works for mosquitos, flies, and other insects.  

• 2 Tablespoons witch hazel
• 2 Tablespoons of one, or a combination of, the following oils: grapeseed oil, jojoba oil, almond oil, olive oil, or neem oil (which contains natural insecticidal compounds)
• ½ tsp vodka (as a preservative)
• 100-110 drops essential oils  - see suggestions below.

Instructions

1. Add the witch hazel and your choice of oil to a small spray bottle (3 or 4 oz. works well so there is room for shaking).
2. Add essential oils and shake well before each use.
3. Natural bug repellent will need to be reapplied every few hours for maximum effectiveness.

Bug-Repelling Essential Oil Blend:

• 55 drops lemon eucalyptus essential oil (Reported by the CDC to be a good natural substitution for DEET in repelling insects but not recommended for use on children under 3 yrs.)[3]
• add 15 drops cedar wood essential oil 

• Buy it: HERE

• 15 drops lavender essential oil. Choose Lavandula angustifolia  Regular Lavender essential oil does not have the same insecticidal qualities. 
• Buy it: HERE
• 15 drops rosemary essential oil

This natural homemade mosquito repellent is great for mosquitos, flies, and other annoying warm season bugs. Tweak to your liking.

Simple Mosquito Repellent for Skin #2

Ingredients:

2 ounces water.

2 ounces apple cider vinegar.

20-25 drops of Bug Off Oil (An all-natural oil made with a mix of citronella, peppermint, lemongrass, cedar wood and geranium.) 

Buy it: HERE

For Bug Bites

Apple Cider Vinegar with Lavender and Lemon Eucalyptus Oil

The acidic property of the apple cider vinegar is an excellent neutralizer to the stinging sensation caused by the insect bites.

Put 2 ounces of apple cider vinegar with the lavender oil (15 drops) and lemon eucalyptus oil (10 drops) in a spray bottle. Shake the mixture well before applying it on the bites.

Peppermint and Tea Tree Oil Mixture

If the mosquito bite leaves a stinging sensation that makes you want to scratch it often, then try this. Just mix ten drops of peppermint and 10 drops of tea tree oil together into some carrier oil and apply it on the skin area with mosquito bites. Carrier Oil is something like almond, jojoba, olive, grapeseed oil etc. The cooling sensation of the peppermint will take the itchiness out, and the anti-fungal property of the tea tree oil will help treat the bites.

Other Bug-Repelling Essential Oils:

• citronella oil
• thyme oil
• eucalyptus oil
• lemongrass oil
• tea tree oil
• peppermint oil
• cypress oil
• rose geranium oil
• bergamot oil
• lemon oil
• cinnamon oil

BACK TO SCHOOL EASY KID FIXES

As seen on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 8/1/22 at 8:45am

THE ONLY SPOTTER YOU MAY EVER NEED:  This is such as easy spotter to make and it is a miracle worker.  Combine in an opaque spray or squirt bottle:

MIRACLE SPOTTER

2 Part Dawn Original or Dawn Ultra (Yes, it must be this one)

1 Part Hydrogen Peroxide

Apply to stain on whites or colorfast clothes.  Work in, let sit as you load the washer and launder as usual. 

KIDS SPORTS SHOES:

When they get really dirty, wash them in the washer.  Pre-treat stains and work in with a brush.  You can use the Miracle Spotter.  Place in a zip up delicates bag and put in the washer with you regular detergent.  Remove from bag and reshape the shoes.  Allow to dry out of the sun.  I use these mesh shoe laundry bags and love them.  

Buy it: HERE

REFRESHING OLD CLOTHES AND HAND-ME-DOWNS:

Launder with WHITE BRITE following the instructions on the bottle.  This will remove the discoloration from whites and colored clothes, brightening them.  Find WHITE BRITE in the laundry additive aisle.

Buy it: HERE

MAKE SPOTTING CLOTHES FAST AND EASY

Keep plastic clothes pins near each hamper in your home.  Each time somebody tosses in dirty clothes they mark any spills or spots by clipping a clothes pin to it.  When laundry day comes, look for the clothes pins and remove and pretreat area.  This saves so much time and you won’t miss spots and stains.

TOUGH STAIN ON WHITE CLOTHES

Put a little lemon juice on it and lay it in the sun.  Use ONLY on white clothes.

PERK UP JEANS

When you wash new jeans for the first time, toss in old jeans.  Start the washer, using your regular laundry detergent, and then stop and let soak an hour or so or even overnight.  Complete the wash cycle.  The new jeans will add dye to the old jeans giving them new life.

MUD and GRASS on UNIFORM PANTS AND OTHER CLOTHES

Make up my power paste and work it in to the stain.  Launder as usual.

POWER PASTE

Wet the stain with warm water

Wet a bar of Fels Naptha Laundry Bar Soap and generously lather in the soap to the stain. 

Buy it: HERE

Sprinkle on Twenty Mule Team Borax and work in well.

Launder as usual.

Fels Naptha and Twenty Mule Team Borax are found in the laundry aisle and this spotter can be used on any tough stain.

SPOTTING HOW TO ADVICE

• Treat stains as soon as possible. The longer it sits, the harder it is to get out.
• If you are unsure, test spotters in an inconspicuous spot to be sure they won’t damage the fabrics.
• Never put anything in the dryer until you are sure the stain is gone. Let it air dry. If it is not gone, retreat it.
• If you are making some of my amazing spotters, be sure you label the container they are in. I suggest putting the name of the cleaner and the recipe on the container.

ONE OTHER QUICK TIP WITH NOTHING TO DO WITH LAUNDRY!

Lunch boxes and containers:

Please don’t wipe these out with disinfectant wipes.  Disinfectant is classified as pesticide because it is toxic.  Don’t use these where food is stored including lunch containers. 

Wipe them out with a microfiber cloth wrung out in warm water.  Once a week clean thoroughly by wiping out with dish soap and water and rinsing.  For stains and bad spills, spray in some 3% hydrogen peroxide and wipe out with warm water.  Safe and natural!

For the outside of fabric containers, use a damp micro fiber cloth wrung out in hot water.  Rub the outside surface until clean.  Make sure you rinse the cloth frequently.

For the new lunch containers that are put in the freezer rather than using blue ice inserts, put them in a plastic bag first.  They get dirty…..don’t put them in the freezer with your food.  Just keep the bag tucked in freezer and keep reusing it.

When the fabric lunch containers are new, spray them with Scotchgard™ Fabric Protector.

Buy it: HERE

LAUNDRY HACKS THAT WILL MAKE IT EASY

As seen on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 7/25/22 at 8:45am & 7/30/22 a6 6:40am

PREVENT CLING IN CLOTHES BY USING THIS!

Simply attach a safety pin to the hem of your clothes to help discharge static and prevent them from clinging to other items, including you. Works for dresses, skirts, pants, etc.

THE BEST LAUNDRY BASKET IS A COLLAPSIBLE ONE!   Open it when you need it, collapse it when you don’t .  I hang mine on the wall behind the laundry room door when I don’t need it.. 

Buy It HERE: Click HERE

SOAKING CLOTHES?  Use a collapsible bucket!   I love this bucket!  I don’t soak clothes every laundry day.  This one can fit in the cupboard until I need it.  Pop it open, soak the clothes and, once dry, collapse it.   

Buy It HERE: Click HERE

RED WINE STAINS

When It Happens: 

Sprinkle the area with table salt to keep from staining

Pour on White Wine or Club Soda

Keep On Hand:  Wine Away Red Wine Stain Remover 

Buy It HERE: Click HERE

WHITE CLOTHES NOT SO WHITE?

Stay away from bleach.  It can turn blend fabrics gray.  Instead use WHITE BRITE! It also removes color runs from clothes.  Find in grocery, big box stores and Amazon. 

Buy It HERE: Click HERE

MAKE UP ON FABRICS:

Use shaving cream on makeup smudges before washing.

Spray shaving cream over makeup stains and allow to sit for 2-3 minutes before working in. The stain should lift.

Removing long wearing lipstick from clothes:

Use coconut oil or glycerin based soap, like Kirks™ Castile Bar Soap, and work it in well.  Let it sit a few minutes, then hand wash the spot to be sure it is out before you toss in the laundry.  Reapply if needed.

Buy It HERE: Click HERE

Taking lip gloss stains out of clothes

Do not rub, or you'll spread the mark. Simply take a clean, white cloth and moisten it with alcohol. Then, blot the lipstick/lip gloss stain, which will disappear. Another home remedy is Dawn Ultra dish washing detergent formulated to fight grease.

DRAIN CLEANING -  HOW TO KEEP IT RUNNING SMOOTHLY and AVOID CLOGS

As seen on: 3TV/Phoenix (GMAZ) 7/18/22 at 8:45am

DRAIN CLEANING -  HOW TO KEEP IT RUNNING SMOOTHLY and AVOID CLOGS

 DRAIN CLEANER #1

1 cup of salt

1 cup of baking soda

1 large kettle of boiling water

Pour the salt and baking soda over the drain opening

Pour the kettle of boiling water down the drain

If it is a grease clog it will clear almost at once.  Leave drain for several hours and then flush with cold water. 

DRAIN CLEANER #2                                                                              

1 quart hot water

2 Tablespoons washing soda – This is not baking soda.  Find in the laundry aisle.

Pour slowly into the drain.  Let sit and then flush with hot water after 10 minutes.

DRAIN CLEANING WITH CREAM OF TARTAR

To clean drains, mix 1/4 cup baking soda, 1/4 cup salt, and 1 Tablespoon Cream of Tartar.  Pour in drain and add 1 cup of water

Allow to sit then run water through.

HOW TO AVOID DRAIN CLOGS IN THE BATHROOM

I found these incredible devices to use in shower, tubs and sinks to totally avoid clogs!  What clogs bathroom drains the most is hair.  These collect the hair easily and all you need to do is toss it occasionally.  I have been using them for over a year.  I give them 5 stars!

The ShowerShroom

This is a shower strainer – hair catcher. It will catch every single hair every time you take a shower.  You won’t believe your eyes and the best part is it won’t gag you when you clean it. It comes in colors to match your accessories.

You simply remove your current drain cover and place ShowerShroom® onto the drain opening.

BUY IT NOW: CLICK HERE

The hair wraps up neatly around the cylinder.  Remove the catcher and clean off hair in one quick motion and replace.  It comes in colors to match you bath accessories.

Got a tub?  Then you need this:

Tubshroom

The tubshroom works with tub/shower combinations.  It replaces your current drain cover and captures hair instead of letting it go down the drain. 

BUY IT NOW: CLICK HERE

What about the sink?

Sinkshroom

This fits the sink drain.  Remove the current drain cover.  Replace with the Sinkshroom.  It will collect hair as you use the sink.  Simply pop out, clean and replace.  So easy.  Comes in colors to match your accessories.  

These devices are amazing!  You will not believe the amount of hair they collect.  My drains run free all the time.  No buildup and no clogs.  

BUY IT NOW: CLICK HERE

AMAZING USES FOR WAX PAPER

As seen on: 3TV/phoenix (GMAZ) 7/11/22 at 8:45am

AMAZING USES FOR WAX PAPER

Roll Out Dough Without Extra Flour and Easy Cleanup

Since wax paper naturally provides a non-stick surface, it's perfect for slipping between your dough and the rolling pin. Place a sheet on the counter, lay dough on it, cover with another piece and start rolling.  It’s easy to see what you’re doing too.

Stop fingerprints and soap splatter on your faucet.

Chrome finishes are prone to water stains and fingerprints. A quick wipe down with wax paper will leave a thin film of waxy residue on the surface and help ward off those annoying marks.

Keep your microwave

 Cover your plate with a piece of wax paper beforehand to prevent making a mess.

Protect table linens from candles.

If you store all of your table setting essentials together wrap your colored candles in wax paper first — this way color won't rub off on your tablecloths and napkins.

 Line cabinets and drawers.

For easy cleanup in your kitchen storage areas, line the bottom surfaces with wax paper — then you can just swipe it up or, when it's really dirty, replace it entirely when you're cleaning. Keep  in place with a little double-stick tape.

Clean a can opener.

Rub the wax onto the can-opener gears to keep the blade rolling smoothly. It will keep the can edges from becoming dangerously jagged.

Seal wooden utensils.

Protect wooden spoons, spatulas  by buffing them with a balled-up piece of wax paper. Try it on wooden serving bowls and cutting boards, too.

Un-stick a zipper.

Rub the teeth of a zipper with wax paper to give it extra sliding power. Get the wax as close to the pull as you can.

 Help curtains glide.

Rub wax paper across a curtain rod so your drapes will slide open and closed smoothly.

Keep Ice Cream Fresh

 Air and moisture trapped between the lid and the ice cream can turn into ice crystals.  To prevent that from happening once you've broken the seal and dished out a scoop, simply cover the leftovers with a layer of wax paper.

QUEENS FAVORITE LAUNDRY HACKS

As seen on: 3TV/phoenix (GMAZ) 6/6/22 at 8:40am

HOW TO REMOVE SWEAT STAINS 

Dawn dish soap

Hydrogen peroxide

Baking soda

Scrub brush or toothbrush

Combine:

1 part Dawn dish soap

 2 parts hydrogen peroxide in a small bowl. Stir to combine.

Apply the soap and peroxide mixture to the stain(s), and sprinkle with baking soda. Don’t combine the Dawn, Peroxide and Baking Soda.  Use the baking soda sprinkled on top.

Use a laundry scrub brush or an old toothbrush to work the Dawn, peroxide, and baking soda into the garment fibers. Clean an area slightly bigger than the actual stain so you don’t accidentally miss any of it.

After scrubbing, let the clothing sit for at least an hour or so, and then launder as usual.

OIL AND GREASE STAINS ON CLOTHES

Oil-based stains are tough to eliminate from clothing.

 Remove the oil by treating with a mixture of equal parts baby powder and dish soap. 

Apply, work it in, let it sit 15 minutes or so.

Rinse and let air dry to see if the oil stain is gone.  If not, work in an oil based soap like Castile bar soap or ZOTE soap.  The oils in the soap will help to break down and remove the oil stain.

Rinse again and air dry.

QUEENS SUPER EASY MIRACLE LAUNDRY STAIN REMOVER

2 parts hydrogen peroxide

1 part Dawn Original or Ultra dish washing liquid

Combine in an opaque* squirt bottle and keep it in the laundry room. Shake prior to use. Saturate stain with it, let sit about 15 minutes to break the stain down and then launder as usual. Find inexpensive squirt bottles at the $$$ store.

Always check to be sure a spot or stain is gone prior to putting in the dryer. Heat sets stains in.

*Bottle needs to be opaque because light destroys hydrogen peroxide, turning it into plain water.

MAKE YOUR OWN BLEACH FOR LAUNDRY

This is a safe, effective, all- purpose bleach for all your laundry.

Combine in an opaque or dark container not a clear one.  Peroxide is broken down by light. I re-purpose a softener or detergent bottle and label it.

½ Cup Hydrogen Peroxide

2 Tablespoons lemon juice

3 – ¼ cups water

5 drops Tea Tree Oil or essential oil

Combine and use as you would regular chlorine or non-chlorine bleach

THE BEST YOU CAN BUY

Not everyone wants to make their own laundry spotters no matter how natural they are. Lots of times you just want to have something on the shelf in an emergency.

Here are two spotters I can highly recommend.

ZOUT ™ Laundry Stain Remover. Good for most stains. Find it in grocery, big box, home stores, Amazon etc.

De-Solv-It Laundry Saver.  This is the really big guns.  Works really well on old stains, even out of the dryer. If you think it’s ruined…try this before you toss it.  Find at home stores, Big Box, Amazon.

As seen on: GMAZ-3TV    Air date: 5/30/22 - 8:45am

HOW TO REMOVE SWEAT STAINS

Dawn dish soap

Hydrogen peroxide

Baking soda

Scrub brush or toothbrush

Combine:

1 part Dawn dish soap

 2 parts hydrogen peroxide in a small bowl. Stir to combine.

Apply the soap and peroxide mixture to the stain(s), and sprinkle with baking soda. Don’t combine the Dawn, Peroxide and Baking Soda.  Use the baking soda sprinkled on top.

Use a laundry scrub brush or an old toothbrush to work the Dawn, peroxide, and baking soda into the garment fibers. Clean an area slightly bigger than the actual stain so you don’t accidentally miss any of it.

After scrubbing, let the clothing sit for at least an hour or so, and then launder as usual.

OIL AND GREASE STAINS ON CLOTHES

Oil-based stains are tough to eliminate from clothing.

 Remove the oil by treating with a mixture of equal parts baby powder and dish soap. 

Apply, work it in, let it sit 15 minutes or so.

Rinse and let air dry to see if the oil stain is gone.  If not, work in an oil based soap like Castile bar soap or ZOTE soap.  The oils in the soap will help to break down and remove the oil stain.

Rinse again and air dry.

QUEENS SUPER EASY MIRACLE LAUNDRY STAIN REMOVER

2 parts hydrogen peroxide

1 part Dawn Original or Ultra dish washing liquid

Combine in an opaque* squirt bottle and keep it in the laundry room. Shake prior to use. Saturate stain with it, let sit about 15 minutes to break the stain down and then launder as usual. Find inexpensive squirt bottles at the $$$ store.

Always check to be sure a spot or stain is gone prior to putting in the dryer. Heat sets stains in.

*Bottle needs to be opaque because light destroys hydrogen peroxide, turning it into plain water.\

MAKE YOUR OWN BLEACH FOR LAUNDRY

This is a safe, effective, all- purpose bleach for all your laundry.

Combine in an opaque or dark container not a clear one.  Peroxide is broken down by light. I re-purpose a softener or detergent bottle and label it.

½ Cup Hydrogen Peroxide

2 Tablespoons lemon juice

3 – ¼ cups water

5 drops Tea Tree Oil or essential oil

Combine and use as you would regular chlorine or non-chlorine bleach.

THE BEST YOU CAN BUY

Not everyone wants to make their own laundry spotters no matter how natural they are. Lots of times you just want to have something on the shelf in an emergency.

Below are two spotters I can highly recommend.

LAUNDRY HELPERS YOU NEED NOW!  

As seen on: 3TV/phoenix (GMAZ) 5/22/22 at 8:40am & 5/28/22

These ideas will make laundry and putting clothes away so much easier.  Check them out now!  I am including links to the products that I use at the palace so that you can see them if you want to buy or know what to look for.