Forum Thermomix
Welcoming Center, Management and General Chat => Chit Chat => Topic started by: judydawn on August 31, 2009, 03:14:13 am
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Shampoo & conditioner
I am sick of squeezing the shampoo bottle and getting 3 times as much as I need to wash my hair (DH says I am too heavy handed but I'm sure this happens to others) so I decided to decant it into a pump action container to regulate the quantity a lot easier. Have done it with the conditioner as well. I'm sure my hair products will now last up to 3 times as long which means money in my pocket and not the manufacturers.
Perhaps we could start a thread of its own for this subject as I'm sure we all have money saving tips up our sleeves and it would be nice to share them around.
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Conditioner tip - I use a good quality conditioner and find it lasts a lot longer if I apply it to towel dried hair and comb through. I don't rinse it out. A bottle normally lasts at least 7 months.
Cheers,
K3
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here's what i wrote on another forum :)
i only ever buy second hand books - from garage sales not 2nd hand book shops or ebay - or borrow from the library (fines are small here lol). i read a LOT - like 4-6 books some weeks so there's no way i could buy new. if am buying new for b'day gifts etc i go to http://www.booko.com.au or http://www.bookdepository.co.uk (apparently their new US one is even cheaper a lot of the time)
i too make most of our snacks. i make most of rora's gluten free stuff. in fact i actually even make our gluten free flours blends and our baking powder and my rice milk lol
i would rather buy decent brands for clothing and shoes so they last, but i never do it at full price, also in sales or at DFO etc (not talking designer here) most of my clothes are undercover wear so i host a party and get the stuff at big w prices but way better quality
our easy meals are mostly healthy - soups, risottos, pasta & fagiole etc
we don't have alcohol except to cook with
ummmmm
we download movies to watch to save on hire costs. we copy any kids dvds we buy so that if they scratch them (when not if) we can just burn another copy rather than buy
we get cheapo haircuts *sob*
ummmmm
we are eating out less and less. i still do coffee a lot but these days it's always at gloria jeans where i can get free babycinos, go to the reject shop next door to buy water & snacks (if i havne't brought my own) and sit at the free playarea to eat the food i've brought from home wink.gif
i'm running down all my creams and cosmetics and am not sure how i'm going to afford to buy anymore once this supply of moogoo runs out (and their creams are so reasonably priced, but i'm not willing to switch back to non-natural stuff). i think i'm going to have to moisturise with oil of some kind sad.gif (i need to moisturise a few times a week to prevent cellulitis etc)
i use bicarb soda to clean my shower, wash my hair, as toothpaste and as a facescrub
much more and i'll sound like a guru which i am absolutely not !!
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Spring is here and it is time to tidy up all our drawers, cupboards etc. I started on my dressing table yesterday and decided to roll all the scarves, pj's etc and was amazed at how uncrowded the drawers now look. I can see everything at a glance. Today was babysitting day at DD's place so I decided to go through Miss 4.5's drawers too, putting aside everything that was size 3 and rolling everything else. Miss 4.5 was 'amazed' with her new drawer set up - let's hope she keeps it like that. I just showed my neighbour what I've done here and she's now keen to do the same at her place.
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Well done JD. Spring lasts for 3 months so I reckon don't do it all in one day (says I looking at the unmade bed, and floor that needs sweeping, etc.... :-[)
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good thinking! i always roll to pack to go away but have never thought to do it at home lol
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The way the economy is going (down) we will be needing this thread to grow
It’s been about a year or so that i have been Unplugging power points
Dish washing, washing machine and iron before 7 am
I try and bake bread and make my sauces, before that time 2
Heating is no problem when you live above a restaurant but summer its very hard, air con on 24/7
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Will think in more depth about this topic - but my immediate thought was the cuisipro foam pump, we were going through liquid soap like water. I now have 4 in this house and love them - apart form a bottle of liquid soap lasting for months, thereis no corrosion around the screw top as the contents never touch the actual 'metal'. So worth the $ :) :)
(http://www.everten.com.au/images/P/Cuisipro-Foam-Pump-L.jpg)
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This (http://down---to---earth.blogspot.com/)lady is a fount of useful information and ideas. She is also about to start a regular column in the WW next month and there is an introductory article in October's WW. I just came across her link in Quirky Jo's blog last week and plan to go back there and have a good look around once I get a chance.
However, my biggest tip is to buy a thermomix! I am saving loads of money now by eating food made in TMX - my bank account / mortgage is very happy with me!
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Have you ever tried to make your own Robyn
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Will think in more depth about this topic - but my immediate thought was the cuisipro foam pump, we were going through liquid soap like water. I now have 4 in this house and love them - apart form a bottle of liquid soap lasting for months, thereis no corrosion around the screw top as the contents never touch the actual 'metal'. So worth the $ :) :)
(http://www.everten.com.au/images/P/Cuisipro-Foam-Pump-L.jpg)
I have the same soap pumps and they are really good. I have had mine for about a year and there is no corroision at all depite one being in the kitchen and kids bathroom (high traffic areas). It is also amazing how little soap you use.
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I didn't know you could buy these dispensers without soap - we've got some (cheapish plastic ones) but had to buy them with soap - could you tell me where you buy these ones from please, Robyn? Ta
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Marina, I've done a bit of research and this (http://www.yourhomedepot.com.au/products/cuisipro/foam-pump/washing-up-amp-cleaning) is where I found the cheapest price $15.95. Anyone found better than that?
Everton.com link seized up my computer so be careful of that one.
Have ordered 2 for myself - $43.90 includes postage and insurance.
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Thanks, Judy, you're a gem.
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Judy I bought the last 3 at that price after purchasing the initial from Howards Storage at $19.95 - I have found it best to use the clear liquid soaps in preference to the milky type just because it looks better on the bench - at present I am using palmolive liquid soap. Better run as next class begins very sooooon! :) :)
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I have 2.5 litres Palmolive clear hand soap so that should last me a very long time Robyn ;) Thanks for bringing this gadget to our attention.
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I use bicarb soda to clean, also white vinegar.
Use vinegar as a rinse aid in the dishwasher, also instead of fabric softener in the washing machine. also add to hot water for polished floors.
clean a microwave, by cutting a lemon, and microwaving for 30 sec, then wipe out.
Grow as much veges as you can, and fruit.
I make my own jams, chutneys, bread.
I buy all beef, chicken, pork, lamb, fish in bulk. I have 3 large 3 freezers always full.
we never buy take away. leftovers are for lunch now at work the next day.
I also meal plan, a week at a time.
I buy washing powder in 15 kilo boxes.
don't buy bottled water, use a water filter if you need to.
clean out vents in air-conditioners, and dryers.
when baking, I bake heaps at once and freeze, saves turning the oven on and off.
home brand products are made in the factories that have the big brand names.
example, Reckitts own "finish and Kwit brands" of dishwasher powder.
Also "Mortien, and Pea Beu, and "Black Flag" fly sprays.
Sunbeam foods make the home brand dried fruit.
Robyn :)
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Love the look of those pump dispensers, I buy up on specials that we use regularly, DH's cereal, toilet paper etc. My great buy this week, was Browns 600ml whipping cream for $1.50 there was 7 on the shelf so I bought the lot. have made butter and the famous ice cream that everyone has been talking about, the rest went into the freezer. buying meat when its been reduced in price. Dont use chemicals to clean, thats a big saving.
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obbie - when you use vinegar instead of fabric softener in the washing machine, dont your clothes smell of vinegar afterwards??
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I've been doing that for years too Karen and don't notice a vinegar smell - flapping clothes in the breeze and sunshine all smell good to me ;)
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Not at all Karen - I also had the same concern initially, but this has never been the case. DH is a gym junkie instructing up to 9 classes in a week so the potential for smelly clothes was very real. I used to have to constantly remember to wash his clothes immediately in case the smell became entrenched in the threads during our hot summers - while I wash every day, clothes don't immediately have to go into the machine. This change in our living patterns came as a result of this forum (I think Cookie, Chookie or JD had the vinegar discussion) - so thank you,love it - money saved, washing machine not clogged and no need to be tied to DH's smelly clothes!!!!!!!!
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:) Karen, no vinegar smell at all. I have been doing this for years.
I also used to be a sales rep, and so know what brands have 3-4 cheaper versions.
Buy kids clothes at end of year 1/2 price sales, a size or 2 bigger for the next year. ( I do this all the time)
Robyn
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I have the hands-free soap dispensers for hand soap, shampoo, lotion. Yet another bit of evidence for the gadget nutcase!
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Who hates cleaning skirting boards i know i do
this makes the job a little easier
a chuck wipe wraped around a broom
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Fantastic! Thanks to all for vinegar advice! Fabric softener and rinse aid now banned from the shopping trolley ;D
I am really loving this thread, finding all sorts of interesting ideas. I would love to save more money around the house, but I do find that lots of money-saving habits are also a bit time-consuming. It is when I get really busy with work and the kids and the renovations that I find myself going for the quick and easy option, which is also more expensive. I also dont have the time or the headspace to shop around for the best bargain, and tend to grab what I need on the run and dont look at the price.
I LOVED the "Down to Earth" blog that Marina posted a link to earlier in this thread ........ I would really really like to live more like that, and to slow down and live a more simple, stressfree life, but I just cant seem to manage to achieve this. I always seem to be rushing frantically from place to place and job to job, and end up exhausted at the end of the day! Hopefully, fingers crossed, when the kids are a little bit older ???
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I have one of the cuisipro foam pumps as well. I bought one from Kitchenwarehouse Direct for $19.95 ish, but as I was buying other things, the postage was included. It is great. We only use it in the kitchen, and it really does cut down on the amount of liquid soap we use. I need something similar for the body wash that the kids seem to swim in!!! I tend to stop them using it for a while, and only give them a bar of soap.
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I buy my liquid soap from The REject Shop but will still look for one of those pumps Robyn.
For moisturiser I use cheap sorbelene cream. Each time my dermatoligist has chopped nasties out of me he says use sorbelene cream, so I do all the time now.
TMX saves on bread and icecream, but then I buy things like pie makers!
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but then I buy things like pie makers!
Me too cookie!!!!!!!!!!! Next is an icecream maker with compressor as I don't have any freezer space,yikes..........I definitely will not be able to use the I have had this for ages comment!!!! when the question is put forward 'When did you buy that ??? :) :)
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:) Lucky my Husband lets me have anything for the kitchen, but then I let him have any tools he wants.
Also, Metho and scruched up newspaper to clean all glass, works a treat. wear rubber gloves so you don't get ink on you.
heaps cheaper than windex.
Robyn
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My DH uses ½ metho and ½ vinegar to clean windows .i don’t do windows ;D
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any added water?
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DH siad no water :)
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How much vinegar for washing machine rinse cycle? Does it help with removing the powder residue on clothes when DH overfills the machine?
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You're lucky fundj, I don't do windows either so have to pay to have mine done.
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Just fill the receptacle in the machine where you normally put the fabric softener Viv.
Don't know the answer to your second question and not about to try it out for you either :D :D I can only suggest you keep DH out of the laundry ;)
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Oh goodness JD I've rarely used fabric softener, I'm such a bad homemaker, I don't iron either unless for work clothes and most are drip dry. Some people I hear iron undies!!
Great tip from some forum lovely is to use bicarbonate soda instead of shampoo, and vinegar for conditioner, we love it and now I don't have a dry itchy scalp. Thank you!
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I use vinegar all the time for fabric softener. I also add some water soluble eucalyptus or lavender oil to is for a little fragrance. If you ask an appliance repair person about fabric softener they will tell you all about the damage from some softeners. I use vinegar and bicarb to clean lots of things since buying Shannon Lush's books. She has so many tips on cleaning and stain removal that really work and reduce cleaning times. Don't think I could live without them now. Every time I want to clean something a little different, I look it up and she has a way to do it.
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Read this tip years ago and it works a treat.
Push cotton balls halfway into the sink holes - 4 holes = 4 cotton balls & then put an extra one in the centre of the 4. Pour in enough bleach to cover them, leave for a few hours, remove and your pipes will be clean as a whistle.
If you holes aren't big enough to force the balls in, just squash as many balls as you can into the space.
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I buy homebrand where ever possible, and have never been disappointed with the quality.
My housekeeping tip is to keep your expectations small and do-able. When you need to clean up a room or item eg. fridge, and you feel the job is just too big - say to yourself "OK, I will only pick up 3 x items from the floor or I will only clean 1 x shelf of the fridge".
Quite often after picking up 3 x items you are able to pick up extra and sometimes go beyond your initial expectations. If you are only able to pick up 3 x items or clean 1 x shelf you can be pleased with yourself because you have achieved your goal.
Another trick for lazy cleaning, is as you walk past something on your way to somewhere pick up 1 thing and put it back in its place as you continue on your travels. Easy, one item removed without too much thought or trouble and if only 1 item has been removed from sight, thats one item now not cluttering up space. You will also be surprised how often you can walk past things as you go about your normal day to day duties and this is really minimal effort.
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I make our soap, dishwashing liquid, hand soap, room fresheners, cleanser, toner, moisturiser, shampoo, conditioner, hand cream and body butter!
;)
Yeah, well that's because I have my own business making these products!
Love bi-carb for cleaning and vinegar as rinse aid. I use vinegar, tiny bit of dishwashing liquid and water with some blue food colouring for windows. It's just got to look right, you know? ;D
I buy Australian as much as possible, so not much Home brand stuff. I figure I save money in other ways.
We rarely go out to tea as it's a 120km round trip!
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but then I buy things like pie makers!
Me too cookie!!!!!!!!!!! Next is an icecream maker with compressor as I don't have any freezer space,yikes..........I definitely will not be able to use the I have had this for ages comment!!!! when the question is put forward 'When did you buy that ??? :) :)
I've had self-contained ice cream makers for years. I now have a Lello Gelato Jr and the bigger, 2-quart one also made by Lello.
For years I had a Simac that I used extensively when I was catering but had to retire it when it could no longer be recharged with freon and wasn't convertible to the newer refrigerant. (California law changed.) So I got the small Lello and it is so nice to have it ready all the time and the pre-cooling only takes about 15 minutes so I spend that time mixing the ingredients.
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Today it was
1. Store Tomato paste upside down in the fridge. Prevents mold
2. Cut lettuce with plastic knife. Stops it from going black
3. Cut hand cream and other plastic tubes in ½ when you think the tube is empty
Will keep on adding more when i make things and do things that have saved me money over the years
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I'm a bit late with this follow up, but Vivaroo's post brought back memories and made me laugh - my mum used to iron underwear "..... just in case you have an accident ..." . Well, many years ago, I did have an accident and the ambulance men definitely didn't check my knickers before carting me off to hospital! I can't remember the last time I ironed, I am always careful when I take my washing in from the line, keep them as crease free as possible then either fold or hang straight away and mostly they look fine when you go to wear them.
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My sister irons undies and socks
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3. Cut hand cream and other plastic tubes in ½ when you think the tube is empty
We do this with the toothpaste when I have forgotten to buy the next tube. :D
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I have not done it with toothpaste thanks nay nay
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I can't remember the last time I ironed, I am always careful when I take my washing in from the line, keep them as crease free as possible then either fold or hang straight away and mostly they look fine when you go to wear them.
I do the same, DH irons his own cloths.
When I was very young my mother told me to never touch a hot iron.
It might be the only thing that I listened too what she said :D
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What a great thread ;).
I'm a vinegar fan too. Use it 50/50 mixed with water for fabric softener though. This is what I read somewhere and I guess it makes it stretch further. Also use a 50/50 mix in a spray bottle for cleaning benches, table etc.
For mopping I use a small squirt of dishwashing liquid and a cup of vinegar.
Gumption used for more heavy duty areas like bathrooms. So cheap and lasts 6 months or so!
For toilets I sprinkle bi-card in the bowl, spray with 100% vinegar and let it fizzle before I scrub it.
For air freshner I add a couple of drops of lavendar essential oil to water in a spray bottle (works well with other oils or vanilla essence too)
Love those microfibre clothes for glass, mirrors and dusting. Great just damp.
Make my own hand soap and clothes washing powder. Recipes came from a book called 'saving mum' but think both recipes are on here somewhere too.
We use cloth nappies (love Nudey Rudeys) and wet flannels instead of wipes (don't worry, different flannels from ones used to wash faces!!)
Make our own bread and most food from scratch. Also buy flour, grains, dried fruit and nuts in bulk from Gigarnis (here in SA). Everything works out to be about 1/2 the cost compared to from a supermarket.
Love saving money and most ways are also safer and more earth friendly too :)
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I do iron, not the undies though.
I love Shannon Lush's books and use them all the time.
I always cut tubes in half and then they seem to last a few more weeks. Expecially make up ones and sorbelene.
Lots of good helpful hints too. I guess as we get a little older we use so many of them without thinking.
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1. I microwave my kitchen sponges most nights on high for 1 min
2. When kids were little i would microwave face washer instead of using wet ones (winter)
3. I do freeze wet face washer for when we go out for the day (summer)
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Heeehee I always remember grandma teaching me to iron and she always used to say make sure you spend some time on the crouch. :o when ironing underwear. I think it was a question of hygiene in them days, and she will be proud of me as I still iron underwear as well as tea towels and bath towels and everything really ;D
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I microwave my sponges too fundj and they last for ages - they wear out now, whereas they used to stink and then get thrown out.
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They do last longer and always smell nice, well ,not nice they just don’t smell ;D
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I put my kitchen sponges in the dishwasher, top rack as they fit snugly in the saucer rack.
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I put my brushes (TMX Bowl brush etc) in the dishwasher weekly, hadn't thought about the sponges in the microwave - like that idea and on the nightly agenda!! :D
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Me too Kathryn!!! nor did I think of sponges far less hassle than throwing in a lingerie bag in with the towels, also never thought of the sponges in MW - great idea!!!!! Thanks Fundj and Andie!!! :) :)
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In my when, i could be bothered days (BM)i would nicely roll up white washers and offer my guest hot or cold washer to freshen up in between courses
Hot in M/C
Cold from the freezer
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We use cloth nappies wipes and hankies, Enjo and water for cleaning, I buy food on special in bulk and would eventually like to be involved in a coop. Always try to buy clothes on special or at the end of the season for the kids. Cook most food from scratch.
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I love knowing we are so much alike - kindred spirits. So many things you have said I also do - cloth nappies wipes and hankies, Enjo and water, vinegar and bi-carb for cleaning, food in bulk, Fan of Shannon Lush, bake and make almost everything from scratch. I'm a huge fan of natural therapy (Bowen treatment and Homeopathy) which saves alot of money on doctors, proper diet that Thermie helps me with saves on vitamin supplements. We have our own meat, chooks and I'd love to grow more of our own food. We have our own water and would love to make our own electricity. I also make a huge saving in $$$ and on the environment by being a 'Luna' girl and a 'Diva' girl. ;)
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We are an everything Enjo household!!!!!! Presently waiting for our next electricity
account statement as we have had solar panels for almost 3 months - yahoo!!!!!! :) :)
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I love knowing we are so much alike - kindred spirits. . I also make a huge saving in $$$ and on the environment by being a 'Luna' girl and a 'Diva' girl. ;)
I wasn't going to go there Nay as it sometimes freaks people out but I am a diva girl too ;) lol
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Aha!! I sooo knew you were!! ;) Yeah I did think twice (actually 3 or 4 times deleting it and re-posting) - it has been my experience with friends and sisters that it freaks people out but hey if we truly believe in something - should we be ashamed of it?? Also I do realise this is a website all about TMX and food so please forgive me anyone who is totally freaked. ;) and ps Meagan I love the fly lady too. :D
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No need for diva anymore but flylady is a winner!!!!! :) :)
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You will have to enlighten me - what are "luna" and "diva" girls??
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You are not the only one Karen - left me wondering too ;D
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Hold onto your hats forumthermomix :D :o lol The DivaCup, a menstrual alternative, is a reusable flexible cup that is used as an alternative to tampons. There are a lot of different brands out there.
Here is a link if you want to know more www.divacup.com
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ok (dare I ask), whats luna?
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Wow! you just got in there before me Meagan I was going to say I'd PM them but there you have it!! :o Luna link (http://lunapads.com/). ;) We are staying on topic - the thread asked the question about money saving tips. 8)
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I'm a mooncup girl myself and will never go back! I love, love, love it!!! So funny how these snippets of info eventually come out because they aren't exactly dinner table conversation! Amazing how many people's eyes widen when they find out about them!
:) But yes I agree, an amazing way to save money every month!
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Good onya tarosuma! Anyone else 'in the closet' that wants to come out?? :D
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I am guessing there are going to be a few more views on this thread now lol
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Thanks for the links girls - you learn something new every day on this forum :D :D
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We are an everything Enjo household!!!!!! Presently waiting for our next electricity account statement as we have had solar panels for almost 3 months - yahoo!!!!!! :) :)
I'd love to hear how you go johnro. :)
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Well, I did ask, didnt I!! ;D ;D ;D ;D I had never heard of them. As you say - they fit right in on this thread as a way of saving money - I must admit to being very annoyed every time I stock up on tampons and pantyliners etc, to know that all that money is just going to be thrown away. Definitely something worth considering! And as JD says - you learn something new every day! Thanks for the info girls!
johnro - we have just had our second lot of solar panels installed - a money-saving tip they gave us was to use as much of your electricity as you can when it is dark and your solar panels aren't producing power - because you get more money for your solar power than you pay to buy your power back. So during the day, use as little as you can so that as much power as possible goes onto the grid - and run things like dishwasher, washing machine etc etc at night when you are buying back cheaper power.
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Karen we were told that also so I have been still doing my washing at night, putting dishwasher on etc - DH enjoys watching the click over at the box - only accountants hey!!!!!! :) :)
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Well, I guess our male members have just had a bit of an education! Must say, I had never heard of either the luna or diva cup before either, I guess I'm too old so out of the loop!
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Not just accountants Robyn - my DH is a police officer, and he has an excel spreadsheeet with the monthly output from each of the sets of our panels, and compared to what we are charged on our electricity bills ;) ;)
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back in the 70s when i lived in italy i used cotton menstrual pads , not happy jan
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off peak in syd is between 12am to 7am
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I have a set of windows that are sparkling clean today, and have just done a couple of washes with the vinegar rinse ;D
For shopping lists I cut old envelopes into 3 pieces, and stick them in this little pen holder I have on the fridge (just seen poking out the back on the right hand side). Its got suction pads on it and its really handy cos its central. (I don't keep anything by the phone in the house cos everyone would just write junk and it would be messy). Found it in the supermarket around the laundry aisle, and you could probably put your sponges, plugs etc in it to keep the sink area tidy.
A4 computer paper is turned over and the other side is printed on
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No more shopping lists in this house - since Woolies online arrived in Rock Vegas that is the go for us - pick a delivery time anywhere between 7am and 10pm (wiith a 3 hr window) - refrigerated van pulls into the driveway carries it in and places it where ever you wish - cold is separated - excellent service to date!!!!
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Do you find shopping on line saves you money Robyn?
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i have done it a few times JD and i think it does
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This is a great thread about cost-saving tips.
I'm another who puts the face washer in the m/wave each night & uses white vinegar for just about everything... Essential oil in water spray bottle as air freshener too :) ... I'm getting some great other ideas, so thanks all!
Can I share a story about my "diva cup"!? ... We were trying & trying to fall pregnant for about 3 years & towards the end of this journey I came across some info about the diva cup so, intrigued, I bought one. Then I had to wait for my period to arrive.. And I waited.. And waited.. But never got to use it - cause I was pregnant!! ;D (thanks to IVF :-*) .. And now, I don't get periods anymore anyway, so it's still sitting at the back of the cupboard :D
Off to read some more ideas now,
Karen
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great story thanks for sharing ;D
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It's funny - when someone puts up a new avatar, I can't remember the previous one :-)) Nice to 'see' you Karen and love hearing about IVF success stories.
I think online shopping would be great if you are time poor, sick, incapacitated or have young children you can't leave with anyone but I rather enjoy shopping and am pretty good with just getting what is on my list unless there are unbelievable specials that I would buy normally anyway.
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Lovely story Karen, yes thanks for sharing
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I love my woolies online shopping. Miss going in person but with young kids I find the delivery option much easier. I choose the largest time window which means it only costs $5 to get it to my door. Think I spend less too as I can remove stuff from the online trolley if it comes over budget, and I'm not tempted by different things down the isles, instead only buying what I REALLY need.
I've just had an education too-thought I knew everything about menstration but I was wrong :o
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Judy I think so but the time saving is amazing!!!!! :) :)
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Although I don't shop online from any of the big supermarkets (I use the trip to the supermarket as a chance to get out and about for a break from work) if it really came down to it it would be cheaper for me to shop on line if I took the time / cost savings into consideration. In fact, based on my current salary (which is very modest as I am self employed) it costs me more in time, petrol, parking, etc. to actually go and buy my groceries than any delivery fee the supermarkets would charge.
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:) Has anyone else tried groceryrun.com.au
i bought from them 2 weeks ago, when they launched.
Heaps cheaper and a $11 cap on freight.
It took 2 weeks to get to me, but I saved over $120 in one order.
Nay Nay, I have done Bowen Therapy, as I am a Remedial massage therapist.
i always use my essential oils for cleaning too.
Robyn :)
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that is a great saving obbie
who cares about 2 weeks, i am sure you can work around that
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I find when I shop on-line there is no impulse buying, a big saving there for me. I buy so little from the supermarket these days, not worth the effort. I have only used Coles on-line.
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Nay Nay, I have done Bowen Therapy, as I am a Remedial massage therapist.
Robyn :)
How clever you are!! :)
I love using essential oils for a range of things too - even bugs and pests each have an oil they particularly hate (natural deterrent)
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Nay Nay - can you suggest a good oil (or combination of oils) as a mosquito deterrent? I've tried Listerine and Clothes Dryer 'cloths' as well as the normal run of the mill mosquito creams and nothing seems to deter a determined mosquito. We lived for a couple of years in Hong Kong and the mosquitos there were so determined they would bite you through your jeans!!
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40 drops lavender
40 drops citronella
30 drops peppermint
1/4cup cider vinegar or witch hazel
1/4 cup paraffin oil
Mix all together in small bottle and shake to blend. Leave for 4 days to synergise.
Rub on all exposed ares. Don't get in eyes. Reapply every 3 hrs. Paraffin isn't the greatest oil for skin but in this case is better as it holds the oil on the skin for longer and doesn't absorb into skin as quick as grapeseed oil which is a good base for other skin care. ;)
This recipe comes from my 'Nerys Purchon's handbook of Aromatherapy' Book
I grew up, up in North QLD and mum used to mix up a spray bottle of baby oil and dettol when we went to our fishing hut on the beach for all the bitey things. You could add some citrus oil to that to. ;)
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I have read that skin so soft from avon works really well
If a mosquito lands on me, it dies :-))
http://www.beckysbiz.com/skinsosoft.htm
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Not just accountants Robyn - my DH is a police officer, and he has an excel spreadsheeet with the monthly output from each of the sets of our panels, and compared to what we are charged on our electricity bills ;) ;)
OMG I thought my DH was the only one obsessed enough to do this. Glad there is at least one other out there ;D ;D
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Not just accountants Robyn - my DH is a police officer, and he has an excel spreadsheeet with the monthly output from each of the sets of our panels, and compared to what we are charged on our electricity bills ;) ;)
OMG I thought my DH was the only one obsessed enough to do this. Glad there is at least one other out there ;D ;D
I used to obsess about electric bills then we had the energy "crisis" of 2000 - all a hoax, engineered by Enron. After that I did what so many folks who live in the "sun belt" have done and got solar panels for my roof. Unless I run the AC - I also have evaporative coolers (known as "swamp" coolers) which work extremely well and very cheaply where the humidity is low and the temps are high, I don't use any electricity off the "grid" and I get money from the power company for producing electricity. It's not much but it's better than paying.
With all the sun exposure in so much of Australia, I'm surprised it is not more in use there. I've twice had my panels swapped out for newer technology and more efficient power generation since the initial installation.
When I got mine the federal government was giving grants which paid for much of it and I also got rebates from Edison. The initial cost was 15K but with the grants and rebates, as well as the savings on power cost, it was paid for in three years with little cash out of my pocket and in the ensuing seven years I have saved at least 10K that would have been the minimum power cost, and probably more.
The newer solar panels don't require as much understructure and are tougher and better able to survive high winds and I now have sprayers on the roof to wash the dust off after a dust or sand storm.
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Skin so Soft was also talked about here (http://www.forumthermomix.com/index.php?topic=5721.30)
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Thanks very much for the mosquito repellent recipe, Nay Nay, I will give it a go. I've never purchased paraffin oil before - I would guess that you get it at the chemists?
Andie, Australia really is very slow overall on the uptake of solar panels. For a country that would seem to be a 'natural' for farming solar energy, we are very much behind other parts of the world, although it is getting better. We were in southern Germany earlier this year and were really amazed by the number of solar panels almost every building had - many entirely covering the side of their roof, there were 'mini' solar farms as well - a very imperssive sight, especially when you realise that they don't get nearly as much sun as we do here and also have snow in their winters.
CP - I just got some Skin So Soft a month or so ago so haven't had a chance to try it out yet ... but I will!
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You can even just get it at your supermarket (faulding brand)in the aisle where you get lavender,eucalyptus,clove oil - bandaids that sort of thing. ;)
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Ah, found it, Nay Nay, thanks (I was checking in the wrong thread!) - sounds like a severe case of Mondayitis.
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Ahh Faulding is a name I haven't heard for a while. I worked for them for 12 years !! Products are still branded Faulding, but they are no longer owned by Faulding, sadly. Was a great Company to work for until all the takeovers ! Judy, it was Famous in SA hey ! I lived in SA for a while whilst working for them too.
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Seeing the kettle in the shopping thread made me remember to add a splash of vinegar every now and then into the kettle and boil with water. Tip out the water. Do this every so often to keep the element and the kettle clean inside, and it should last longer.
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We've had our solar panels since early June and now get a nice credit on our power bills. I said that I washed etc at night when I worked and WILL not do it now.
DH still goes out every evening and checks the electricity meter and the solar panel readout and notes them down. He can't use the computer so no spreadsheets for him and I won't suggest I do it for him. :D
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Seeing the kettle in the shopping thread made me remember to add a splash of vinegar every now and then into the kettle and boil with water. Tip out the water. Do this every so often to keep the element and the kettle clean inside, and it should last longer.
Now that's a Handy Hint Creampuff!! Thanks :)
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Ahh Faulding is a name I haven't heard for a while. I worked for them for 12 years !! Products are still branded Faulding, but they are no longer owned by Faulding, sadly. Was a great Company to work for until all the takeovers ! Judy, it was Famous in SA hey ! I lived in SA for a while whilst working for them too.
Taken over like a lot of companies Deb - nothing ever stays the same.
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New photo again Nay-nay! My sister-in-law is your twin ;D ;D ;D
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I was chatting on the phone with my best friend last evening and I mentioned the discussion about solar panels (they have had them almost as long as I have) and she mentioned her son, who divides his time between SoCalif, Brazil and Australia, where he owns or is part owner of gem mines. He has a semi-underground home in Queensland and a field of solar panels some distance from the mine he co-owns with two other people. He didn't want to be too close to the mine area because of the dust kicked up by trucks and even so they have to sometimes dust the panels twice a day to keep them working efficiently.
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Not quite as money-saving as many of the tips here, but I buy the Entertainment Book each year, so that I can purchase my Coles giftcards online through it, giving me a 5% discount on the price. I then use those gift cards to do my grocery shopping. Only downer is that I have to be organised in advance, as it takes a week for each new card to arrive.
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Great idea though Jen - I would never have thought to use the gift card myself for that reason but then I don't shop at Coles so I guess that is not surprising :-))
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When we lived in Australia (and still do here in Germany) we always shopped at Aldi FIRST and then completed the rest of our shopping at supermarkets and other stores and shops. This is THE BEST place to stock up on flour, sugar, butter, emergency pasta and so on.
Make a list and stick to it but start FIRST at Aldi. We have another version of Aldi here called Lidl and they are excellent too for the basics.
We buy fresh yeast at it costs us 9c, (12c AUD) and 1kg of plain flour 25c, (24c AUD) and that makes our bread. Seriously, we are saving so much money having a Thermomix!!!
xxx
;D
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wow how much yeast do you get for 12c :o :o :o and a whole loaf of bread for 24c Is that the generic supermarket bread?
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CP, Lee means the flour is 24 cents for a 1 kg pack which makes a loaf of bread.
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My Cuisipro foaming soap dispensers just arrived (they were mentioned earlier in this thread). I had an all but empty soap dispenser in the bathroom but, with just the wee drop that remained in the bottom of the empty dispenser, I have now got a full foaming soap dispenser. It really will make a difference to the quantity of soap we use. Thanks for that tip.
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It's a great little gadget isn't it Marina? A 25 year warranty too - can't beat that :) Would make lovely gifts for Christmas.
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Check out the cinemas too, the cinema where I go has an annual membership card which entitles you to cheap tickets, 2 for 1 offers, and the membership has paid for itself over and over.
Use body wash in the shower instead of soap and it will cut down on the soap scum on the tiles.
Wipe the shower down after use either with a window wiper or chamois to eliminate mould
In my food scrap bowl, I place a paper towel on the bottom to make emptying and cleaning easy
Use a lobby brush and pan set to target spots & dirt as they occur eg. crumbs as it saves having to bring out duster busters and makes the worst part of the floor good again until you have time to sweep/vacume the floors thoroughly
Last week on Sunrise they also had some household hints, which I have copied and pasted here for those who missed it:
REMOVING RED WINE STAINS
White vinegar
Bi-carb soda
Wait for it to dry
Vacuum
REMOVING STAINS
Grease: use hair shampoo
Scuff marks: use an eraser or rubber gloves
Mould: use Vinegar or methylated spirits
REMOVING STICKY LABELS
Eucalyptus oil
CLEANING STAINED CUPS
Chux magic eraser
CLEANING MUST HAVES
White vinegar
Bi-carb soda
Eucalyptus oil
Cream cleanser
Magic eraser
Sugar soap
SAVE TIME ON HOUSEWORK BY:
Keeping a doormat inside
Wipe down shower after use
Clean loo with toilet brush daily
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After reading about the foam soap dispensers on here I ordered 2. They arrived yesterday, how good are they! ;D
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I use the entertainment book, and give the voucher that i know will not using to family and friends
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Think I might have to look at those soap dispensers, for some reason we don't go through much liquid soap (maybe I'm the only one in the family that washes my hands ???) but they sound great.
For those with solar panels and more particularly those have recently installed them, do you find they were worth the investment particularly with the lower rebates offered now?
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We never used to use liquid soap either, Wonder, but now the only cake soap we use is in the shower as I hate using gels, etc. for showering - I feel they all get washed away down the drain before I have a chance to use them. Also, I find it is just so mucky cleaning under and around cakes of soap - you don't have any of that with the liquid ones, and the foam dispenser makes them even better and more economical to use.
JD's suggestion of xmas gifts is also a good idea for these (do any of our clever business women out there have recipes for liquid soap?)
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Think I might have to look at those soap dispensers, for some reason we don't go through much liquid soap (maybe I'm the only one in the family that washes my hands ???) but they sound great.
For those with solar panels and more particularly those have recently installed them, do you find they were worth the investment particularly with the lower rebates offered now?
It all depends on how much your power costs are. When I got mine, my electric bills were running over $200.00 per month, often much higher.
One bill during the worst part of the Enron manipulation of the power crisis, I got a bill for $627.00. It was during the late summer and it was a very hot season and one of my neighbors, using the AC a lot had a bill over $1,000. for just one month.
Granted, the charges were reduced somewhat later on and leveled off but California still has very high power charges. I more than paid for the cost of the installation and now all I earn is "gravy" so to speak.
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We never used to use liquid soap either, Wonder, but now the only cake soap we use is in the shower as I hate using gels, etc. for showering - I feel they all get washed away down the drain before I have a chance to use them.
The trick there is to turn the shower off while you're lathering, then back on to rinse. Saves water, too!
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We never used to use liquid soap either, Wonder, but now the only cake soap we use is in the shower as I hate using gels, etc. for showering - I feel they all get washed away down the drain before I have a chance to use them.
The trick there is to turn the shower off while you're lathering, then back on to rinse. Saves water, too!
I use a scrubber "mitten" that holds the liquid soap while I scrub and it exfoliates too! Very efficient way to wash. I also have one for applying lotion while I am still in the shower, extends further and more evenly while skin is wet. Learned this when I stayed at a spa a few years ago.
Also learned a "trick" for skin exposed to wind and sun, dry climate. After shower, don't apply lotion, run tub half full of water, add 1 to 2 cups of plain table salt (I know, it sounds weird) soak in salt water for 5-10 minutes. Dry off. You will be amazed at how your skin feels.
Spa lady said this was once known as a "Swiss bath" and was a "secret" during the 20s and 30s and all the time it was just plain salt.
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I use the stems of my rosemary bush for kebabs (halloumi, mushroom & capsicum). Very popular at barbecues amongst the meat lovers, I can't be too generous until I've had my share!
Rosemary leaves can be simmered in boiling water, strained and makes a nice hair rinse to leave in. Did this last night after a bicarb soda wash and indeed is shiny and feels soft. I used 500mls water and 10gms leaves (about 4 stems).
I'm looking for simple homemade short hair styling recipes like hair wax/fudge type, trying to avoid any commercial product to cure my itchy scalp. I found a hail gel recipe from gelatin, I'd prefer agar agar, which I dont have (is there any end to buying less common ingredients?). I should ask in recipe request and do some of my own research.
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I also use rosemary stems and sage stems for skewers. Rosemary grows like a weed here, I have hedges of it - also sweet bay (laurel nobilis).
A local herbalist recommends a paste of glycerin and salt, rubbed gently into the scalp, left on for 15 minutes and then simply rinsed away.
The glycerin (or glycerine) will be sticky when applied but as it is hygroscopic and as soon as water touches it, it combines with it and essentially disappears but leaves the effect behind.
Here's a quote from Wikipedia: "Topical pure or nearly pure glycerol is an effective treatment for psoriasis, burns, bites, cuts, rashes, bedsores, and calluses. It can be used orally to eliminate halitosis, as it is a contact bacterial desiccant. The same property makes it very helpful with periodontal disease; it penetrates biofilm quickly and eliminates bacterial colonies."
One of the women in my book club has psoriasis and has some crusting on her scalp but it is much improved with the glycerin/salt treatment. She is the one who told me about the herbalist.
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How do you use bicard soda to wash your hair Vivaroo? Do you rub the powder into your hair, or do you dissolve it is water first? I must say I find it hard to believe that it works - but I have never tried it! Would it work with medium length hair too??
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If you really need to wash your hair and have no time a little talc powder does wonders
Do you talc powder? (Talc powder is toxic)
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You can use cornflour instead of talc. ;)
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I've heard in India they use mashed cooked lentils to 'shampoo' hair. You notice that even the poorest have sleek, shiny hair and never been washed with bottled stuff. :)
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Have you tried the cornflour?
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Not in hair but used it for babies bums instead of talc.
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Thanks nay nay
Good to add in baby hampers next time i need to make one up
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Most of the baby powder now sold in the U.S. is cornstarch based (aka corn flour).
I use it instead of talc.
The only talc I still have on hand is a bag of the industrial talc used to final polish glass after carving or engraving and beveling the edges. I still had to wear a breather mask but it was less toxic than the cerium oxide that was the alternative. (still have a bag of that too!)
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Hi KarenH - I put a heaped tbsp in a cup, wet my hair and scoop small amount of dry bicarb with my wet fingers and massage into my hair. You'd need a bit more. It really cleans the hair and I learnt this tip in the laundry powder thread I think! This forum is amazing and I learn something every day. Next I wash it out, then pour some diluted apple cidar vinegar which makes it soft like conditioner.
Hi Andie- that's interesting with the glycerine will try. Rosemary is my most sucessful neglected herb. Greek basil went well with a few years of neglect until the big wet last summer. Must prefer dry. Never could grow sweet basil but trying again with a bit more attention.
What are you reading? I'm a bookclubber and right now it's Birds without Wings by Louis de Bernières.
Another money saving tip - the library! The cookbook section of course, plus a few CDs for music to cook by, I even used to read novels before getting thermohooked ;D Our regional library loans out book club sets of 8.
Nay-nay - mashed lentils? Wow that's so out there I might try it!
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Nice to see you Julie - have you not been around for a while ?....... or am I just having a 'boy' look (as we all know it is the clayton's variety - the look that you have when you are not really looking!!!!) so have not noticed your welcoming coffee cup. Those soap dispensers are the best!!!! :) :)
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Hi Johnro ;D Yes I'm around but have been mainly reading, not contributing as much for some reason ??? Though dtr, grandson and my son have been visiting recently so have been a bit busy.
I know it's not the right thread, but here's my 9 month old grandson, he has 7 teeth and another practically through and is pulling himself up on everything that he can. Love him to bits. :D
(http://i260.photobucket.com/albums/ii26/ragdoll128/Dante%20and%20Pt%20Lincoln/341190_10150345580398987_688208986_8095366_1981549989_o.jpg)
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How wonderful for you Julie - the little possum looks far older than 9mths :)
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Hi is gorgeous Julie, those beautiful brown eyes and all that hair - my grandies were both bald for ages. Enjoy your time with him, he will be off to school before you know it.
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He is gorgeous Julie. Bet he breaks a few hearts in years to come. ;) ;)
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He's a very handsome little man. I love the eyes.
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Thanks girls :D So many have commented on his eyes, they are so dark and gorgeous. Yes I can see him being very attractive in his teen years, will give many a girl a run for their money I would think! ;D :D
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He is beautiful, I think having a lot of hair makes them look older. Mine all had heaps.
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How cute Julie
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How loveable, Julie. Enjoy every minute you have with him.
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Thanks girls. :D
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i have 2 cake carries (is that what they are called :-)) )
sometimes i need more this is what i do ;D
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Good thinking 99 ;)
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On the bi-carb for hair idea, my kids both suffered terribly as babies from cradle cap. My Maternal Child Health Nurse recommended making a paste of bi-carb and water, coating the scalp, and then washing it off with warm water after a few minutes. I was very dubious at first but was desperate for some relief (used to pick it off (gross!), and had tried olive oil and it had little effect other than to make the boys smell). It was amazing! The cradle cap would just wash right off along with the bi-carb paste, and their hair would be smooth too.
On a side note, does anyone have a suggestion for getting mouldy smells out of clothes? My DH played golf in the pouring rain last weekend, then put his wet clothes in a bag where they stayed for a few days. When he got around to washing them he put them in with other clothes (read mine and the kids) and then forgot to hang them out, so now the whole load smells a bit moudly, even after a good warm day in the sun on the good ol' Hills Hoist. I am very sensitive to smells and won't be able to wear any of it until that horrid odour is gone....
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Kerryn - oh yuk, I am with you regarding smell sensitivity, esp mould etc. Try soaking with about 1/2 cup white vinegar in water and then wash putting vinegar in both wash and rinse cycles :) :) I can imagine the wonders of this forum will give the solution that works perfectly, but in the meantime try the vinegar on a few items. :) :)
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For your mouldy smelling clothes johnro wash when with a cup of vinegar in the wash water and then add another cup to the rinse water. You might need to do this a couple of times. then wash again with detergent. If the clothes still have mould spores on them, take then outside and brush mould spores off, leave in the sun to dry out before washing, this helps to kill the mould spores.
I remember those days of living in the tropics and finding mouldy wet kids clothes >:(
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Krryn how horrid. I am very sympathetic with your comment re sensitivity to smells. I have a rotten attack of hay fever today and even the cold smell of the fridge is making me sneeze. I think it's the easterly winds we have been having.
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Just thought I'd let you know that I tried the Vinegar in the wash (instead of fabric softener). DH is a mechanic and his clothes generally smell of grease and petrol, even after washing. But today there was no yukky smell. They smelled like new.
thanks girls for another great tip.
DG xxx
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Does anyone have a tip about what to do if after you've washed the clothes you'e discovered bits off tissue everywhere?
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use masking tape to whip it off, or get one of those lint rollers. You could maybe try shaking clothes hard outside, and then moistening a flannel to try and scrape it off? Make sure you show the person responsible what happens so it "might" not happen again.
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Tasty, the way I do it is chuck the clothes in the dryer! The tissue goes into the filter!
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thanks creampuff - i was hoping there was an even simpler method where i could rewash and add something that somehow collects it all for me. wishful thinking perhaps
hools - like your idea but unfortunately i don't have a dryer :(
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Hi I've been reading all these great tips using bi-carb and vinegar. Can some one suggest somewhere I can buy in bulk in the south east Melb area. Given I'm doing a load of nappies and kids clothes everyday this would be a great cost saver. Thanks
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Keiramax, not sure of any shops in your locality, but you could try googling "green" shops, i.e. shops that provide environmentally safe products. I know I got a bucket of bicarb from a shop on Brunswick Street in Fitzroy a couple of years ago, but for the life of me I cannot remember the name of the shop. See how you get on with google, there should be something there. You could also try contacting Friends of the Earth (they have a shop on Smith Street, Collingwood, I know that, but they may have other shops elsewhere or be able to make some helpful suggestions).
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Tasty, the way I do it is chuck the clothes in the dryer! The tissue goes into the filter!
Yup that is the way I used to do it too, you also only need to have it on the airing or cool cycle. Doesn't take long and works a treat :) Now that I have a front loader I don't have that problem as it doesn't shred anything that I miss. You just find the tissues in a ball in the pocket ;D
Short of rewashing Tasty I don't think you have an easy option with out the dryer.
Mine rarely gets used these days, I do think of parting with it and then something will happen (sickness etc) and I am glad that I still do have it. Mine is an auto sensor dryer so turns off when the clothes are dry and that helps eliminate my guilt a little when I do use it ;)
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Keiramax - do you use MCN's?
Faffa - I have a front loader too but it still does it. I checked everywhere before putting the clothes in the wash and the only place would've been my husband's shorts but where on earth did that tissue hide?
Also, if I rewash will it actually get rid of the tissue pieces do you think?
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Yes to the MCNs They work well and are cheaper
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Can some one suggest somewhere I can buy in bulk in the south east Melb area.
A quick google found that asian grocery stores and Bunnings quite often sell bicarb in bulk. I also found 1 & 2kg buckets on another site for horse supplies. Apparently it improves their performance by delaying the onset of fatigue (useless fact there) so if there are any of these types of shops in your area it might be worth a phone call.
Also there was a discussion here (http://www.forumthermomix.com/index.php?topic=940.90) about making your own vinegar.
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Shampoo & conditioner
I am sick of squeezing the shampoo bottle and getting 3 times as much as I need to wash my hair (DH says I am too heavy handed but I'm sure this happens to others) so I decided to decant it into a pump action container to regulate the quantity a lot easier.
I always mix mine with a little water because my scalp is too sensitive-also extends the life of my shampoo! Thanks for the tips from everyone in this thread, too.
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I have a tip - stay well away from the shopping thread!!!! ;)
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I have a tip - stay well away from the shopping thread!!!! ;)
best tip I have heard all week!!! :D
I cringe before I open that thread :-))
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The shopping thread is scary. It shows me all these things that I had no idea I needed until I read about them.
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Yes, but it is soooo much fun girls. I have bought more stuff for my kitchen since that thread started than I had in years but it all gets used so I must have needed them ;)
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2 x toothpaste dispensers of eBay about $ 15 total including postage. Was sick of the 4 kids putting toothpaste literally everywhere except their mouths. It delivers a pea sized amount, perfect for kids, saves on toothpaste and MESS!!! :-))
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Meagan I think your tip is one of the best. :D :D :D
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That shopping thread is sending me broke ;D
I now need an ice cream maker, some cut resistant gloves and I want all the lovely pretty girly things maddy buys.
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2 x toothpaste dispensers of eBay about $ 15 total including postage. Was sick of the 4 kids putting toothpaste literally everywhere except their mouths. It delivers a pea sized amount, perfect for kids, saves on toothpaste and MESS!!! :-))
oh now I DO NEED a couple of those, my little ones go through nearly a tube a fortnight as it is more in the basin and down the drain than in their mouths. Nothing worse than dried on toothpaste if they happen to be the last in the bathroom for the morning :-)) Off to ebay I go ;D :-[
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We use an electric toothbrush and you can only get a small amount onto that, so less waste.
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lol it's not the amount on the toothbrush, its the amount that is everywhere else when they are trying to get it on the toothbrush :D
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Aaahhhhh, yes, I can see how that could be a problem! ;D
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I just put this on the shopping thread but maybe this info needs to go here . . .moderators: please feel free to delete if the doubling up in not appropriate.
Apparently there are some really competitive online grocery sites being launched . . . .
Have a look at these! saveonbrands boasts nothing over a dollar!! Not sure how they do it . . but that's what they say . . .
www.saveonbrands.com.au
www.offyourtrolley.com.au
www.groceryrun.com.au I think I remember someone trying this not too long ago and save a heck of a lot! - sorry . . memory not good!
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if you dont want to buy a nut bag thingy ,do what i do i use a laundry bag you know which ones i am talking about
great for juices and yogurt
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Good idea Uni but where would my bras go LOL.
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;D
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What an excellent idea, Uni.
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Very smart idea. :)
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I have used groceryrun, and happy with it.
the more you buy in one time the better....
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Keiramax, if you are a member of Costco, they sell a 6kg bag of baking soda that I use in all of my bench top sprays and it only cost about $9. I also use it in cooking as it is gluten free and if I use baking soda to clean my stainless steel appliances and sink, they come up almost new. I try to use enjo products and as little chemicals as possible and the baking soda/vinegar combination is definitely the best for streak free bench tops and you don't get the chemical smell. It is also much cheaper than buying commercial sprays and far less nasties.
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I have to use chemical free cleaning - no choice. We are not on sewerage but have enviro system. So we need to keep the bacteria happening and then the water is sprayed out onto the lawns and gardens. In theory it's good but even with all the rain we've had the sprinklers need to keep going. I miss bleach, I still clean the bins out with it and tip it out right up the back of the property.
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i have been testing a tip that i found on the net on how 2 store celery,broccoli and lettuce
the celery is still very crunchy and fresh after 2 week .
the lettuce is also very fresh looking after 4 weeks this sunday.
the broccoli was the only one that i was not happy with.
wrap in al foil ;D
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That's handy to know Uni. I did know about the celery but not the lettuce :)
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Another handy hint is to cut up one of the thicker microfibre dish washing cloths and line your fridge's vege drawer with it - it helps to absorb the evaporated water off your veges and keeps them fresher longer.
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can i buy the microfibre cloths at C or W ?
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That's handy to know Uni. I did know about the celery but not the lettuce :)
how long does the celery last for dede ?
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I'm not sure Uni, I usually use all the celery in 2 weeks anyway.
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can i buy the microfibre cloths at C or W ?
You should be able to, Uni. If I get down to W today I'll try to check them out for you.
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Thanks Uni, saves a bit of wastage. I often freeze a large bagful of sliced celery so that I always have some on hand for soups and casseroles - it also cooks quicker once frozen. I wonder if the alfoil trick would work for carrots, they often start going a bit limp on me.
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Thanks Uni, saves a bit of wastage. I often freeze a large bagful of sliced celery so that I always have some on hand for soups and casseroles - it also cooks quicker once frozen. I wonder if the alfoil trick would work for carrots, they often start going a bit limp on me.
my carrots are good JD ;D i freeze my celery 2 but sometimes i feel like dipping it in some cream cheese and adding to salads
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Will try the lettuce tip Uni thanks and you can buy the cloths in Woolies and Coles
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Yes in the cleaning isle at C or WW
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The cloths I saw this morning at Ww are Jif, there was also an anti-bacterial one and Vileda All Purpose Cloth
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you can get them at Reject shop, or cheap shops.
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Some great ideas here... (sorry, just replying so I can find the thread easier next time, I've just read thru all the pages...) :)
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Thanks for the tips on glycerine and salt for psoriasis, I am going to try it on DH's psoriasis, will let you know results, this is a really good thread, now of to the shopping thread!!!!!!!! ;D
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Rainbow is about to spend money.... :D :D :D
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Thanks for the tips on glycerine and salt for psoriasis, I am going to try it on DH's psoriasis, will let you know results, this is a really good thread, now of to the shopping thread!!!!!!!! ;D
No-one said there were 300 posts !!!!!! could take me days
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Thanks for the tips on glycerine and salt for psoriasis, I am going to try it on DH's psoriasis, will let you know results, this is a really good thread, now of to the shopping thread!!!!!!!! ;D
No-one said there were 300 posts !!!!!! could take me days
u mean 300 pages ;D
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You were warned earlier in this thread to stay away from the shopping thread - but then, what are credit cards for, but to use them - I don't dare look at the shopping thread any more!
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Some great ideas ;DUni, I didn't know the tip about alfoil, how handy is that - lettuce and celery always die in my fridge ;D I will be trying that tip.
Rainbow, I can't find the tip for glycerine and salt for psoriasis .What page is it on? Many thanks
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I also use rosemary stems and sage stems for skewers. Rosemary grows like a weed here, I have hedges of it - also sweet bay (laurel nobilis).
A local herbalist recommends a paste of glycerin and salt, rubbed gently into the scalp, left on for 15 minutes and then simply rinsed away.
The glycerin (or glycerine) will be sticky when applied but as it is hygroscopic and as soon as water touches it, it combines with it and essentially disappears but leaves the effect behind.
Here's a quote from Wikipedia: "Topical pure or nearly pure glycerol is an effective treatment for psoriasis, burns, bites, cuts, rashes, bedsores, and calluses. It can be used orally to eliminate halitosis, as it is a contact bacterial desiccant. The same property makes it very helpful with periodontal disease; it penetrates biofilm quickly and eliminates bacterial colonies."
One of the women in my book club has psoriasis and has some crusting on her scalp but it is much improved with the glycerin/salt treatment. She is the one who told me about the herbalist.
this one ElleG
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Thanks for finding that for ElleG, DH tried the gylcerine on his elbows with out salt and rinsing off, now says he is sticky, suggested waiting till before shower next time. :-))
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Thanks Uni, have sent the tip to my daughter.
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Great idea for saving Money........
send DH to grocery shop, just saved $80 this week.. :)
He only buys what is on the list..
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I love that one. :)
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Great idea for saving Money........
send DH to grocery shop, just saved $80 this week.. :)
He only buys what is on the list..
Wow it's the opposite here!
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I don't like sending DH cos he always gets the wrong thing eg. ask for dark brown sugar and he'll pick up brown sugar - would say "well they didn't have it! ... I would then have to go to the shop myself :-))
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My DH can cook, fend for himself. :D
I just stayed at the shop, gave him a list, and magic all done, crossed off. Brilliant. :)
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Great idea for saving Money........
send DH to grocery shop, just saved $80 this week.. :)
He only buys what is on the list..
Wow it's the opposite here!
Ditto! :D
Mine buys all junk food when he goes...then asks why food costs so much!! (Then tells me the biscuits etc I make are much nicer!! You gotta love 'em!! :-)) :D )
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Yes you gotta love them.. :D :D
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i thought i would share this tip, you maybe already be doing this, i find it so easy if i have what i need in 1 tray and while the dough is keanding i get my next batch ready for the next day
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I do much the same, Uni, except I use separate small dishes / bowls as I find it easier to use them one-by-one. It's such a good system, though, you know if they are all empty you've put everything in - if any of them have anything left in them at the end you know you've done something wrong!!!
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Great idea Uni..
I love weekends so I can cook.
;D
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Some great ideas!
I also use alfoil for lettuce, but not carrots or celery. I buy my bi-carb in bulk. You can buy giant bags at pool shops or Bunnings. It's used as a alkaliniser for pools.
Another couple of tips:
Cover the tops of your cupboards and fridge with plastic wrap. You will never have to clean them. Just replace the plastic wrap.
You can mix bi-carb with peppermint oil to use as toothpaste.
Hair Conditioner makes a good make up remover. Rub your legs with it if you're having problems with static from a skirt or trousers. Use it as a shaving lotion. Mix a solution of 1/2 hair conditioner and 1/2 water and soak an old handkerchief in it. Throw in the dryer to prevent static build-up instead of using dryer sheets.
Use egg cartons to grow vegetable seeds. Cut each bit out and plant the whole thing once it's sprouted.
Just buy plain flour and baking powder. Saves having to buy self raising.
If you are having trouble with blocked pores, try doing the oil cleansing method (http://www.theoilcleansingmethod.com/).
You can also add a little kaolin to your cleanser and make it into a scrub.
Make your own sugar body scrub by mixing sugar with olive and castor oils. Mix in some liquid lecithin (from health food stores) to make it easier to wash off. Add a little lavender or rose geranium essential oil.
Make your own bath bombs and bath salts to use or give as gifts. Recipes here (http://teachsoap.com/making-bath-bombs/) and here (http://www.aussiesoapsupplies.com.au/recipe-formulary/bath-recipes/blending-bath-salts-recipes.html).
Make your own room sprays. Mix a blend of essential oils - orange, clove, cinnamon, patchouli for example with three times the amount of vodka. Top up with water in a spray bottle. Can be used in the kitchen and the toilet. Citronella and Eucalyptus together makes a great deodoriser and will kill bacteria.
I'll add more when I think of them.
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MJ, You've just reminded me of something I was very glad to become aware of ....... having 3 little boys (or maybe it was DH and the poor kids got the blame! ) I seemed to forever have yellowy stains on the toilet seat ! It drove me absolute crazy trying to get it off.
The solution is simple ......... mix some Bi-carb and water to make a paste and rub it on to the seat and it removes the stains instantly !!!! I just apply it using toilet paper of baby wipes.
I know it's not toooooo nice talking toilets, but I was so rapt when I found a solution finally !!! So thought I'd share ......
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LOL, yes what is it with boys, if we have unexpected visitors & they need the bathroom, I bowl them over to get there first :)
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Yes H, I know what you mean. We have 3 toilets so I usually use a different one but the one they use is the one used by visitors, but yep if we have someone over, have to clean the toilet first lol
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I have a mix of water, vinegar and metho in a spray bottle.
I have my "quick clean" I do daily. Bench tops, basins, toots & a quick vac or sweep of the family room, kitchen and staircase. I just spray all surfaces and wipe over with paper towel.
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I have a mix of water, vinegar and metho in a spray bottle.
I have my "quick clean" I do daily. Bench tops, basins, toots & a quick vac or sweep of the family room, kitchen and staircase. I just spray all surfaces and wipe over with paper towel.
What ratio of vinegar and metho to water do you use? Sounds good.
Marie :)
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Michelle, what ratio metho, water, viniegar do you use.. :o
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In a spray bottle I put 200mls water, 200mls vinegar and 50mls methylated spirits.
It cleans the windows and shower screens a treat too.
This has been amended. Apologies everyone.
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Thanks mcmich will make some up.
Marie :)
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Also 50mls of vinegar boiled up in the kettle cleans it up beautifully.
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In a 500ml bottle I put 350mls water, 100mls vinegar and 50mls methylated spirits.
It cleans the windows and shower screens a treat too.
Thanks mcmich . . just what I need for long neglected windows!! Will make some up today :D
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Thanks Michelle.
I have the whole front of my house is windows, and sliding doors to get the veiw.
will make some up. :)
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Michele, great tips :)
H :)
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Just an amendment to the water, vinegar, metho recipe.
DH says I have it wrong - It's equal amounts of water and vinegar and 50mls of metho.
Apologies All.
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To save money, don't go looking at the shopping thread.... :D
PS Don't grocery shop with the kids either.. ;)
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And don't shop with DH (as bad as kids). End up with way more in the shopping trolley.
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When I take DH and kids with me shopping, we spend about 3 times more.
I take the kids about twice a year, which was Sunday.... :) :) :)
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this is very handy, love it
Portion your mince meat and other moist foods in a bag using a chopstick or other item you may have on hand before you freeze it so you can easily choose exactly as much as you need for later use
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Fabulous Uni - I always vacuum pack as flat as possible (for quick defrost) 500gms of mince at a go.
I will start freezing 1kg lots like that. You're a genius.
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garlic day for me today
i have made roasted,minced and have confit going ATM
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Great idea Uni
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OMG Uni, how many cloves are in that packet?? :o
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;D lots and lots
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Do you use the TMX trick to peel them, or do you peel them by hand?
When I make sweet chilli sauce, I get fed up with peeling the garlic after just 8 cloves >:(
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DS buys them already peeled no way in hell i would peel 1 kg of garlic
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ROFL ;D ;D ;D
Here I was thinking you had peeled all of them by hand
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I don't know whether this has been mentioned before, if it has I will delete this post.
Have been going through my Mums old recipe book and written inside the cover is a hint for making pumpkin last several weeks. Scoop out the seeds, then place pumpkin in the bottom of a hot oven (turned off) for a few minutes. The hot oven sears the pumpkin flesh preventing it fermenting. Have not tried this, but will do so next time I buy a whole pumpkin.
Marie
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Never heard of that before, thanx Marie. :)
Will be trying it when we are once again loaded with pumpkins from our farmer friends....
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New to me too thanks Marie.
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My pumpkin often goes off, I will have to try this.
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I'm going to try it too, I hate pumpkin when it goes all slimy, and it is getting so expensive
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I think this is correct. I left some pumpkin on the bench and because the Kitchen is warm the flesh sealed over. Good one Marie.
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i wil be trying this method 2, thanks marina
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Just re read this for ideas.
What a LOTof garlic!
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trying that for pumpkins too. we just planted heaps in our vege gardens, and more herbs for me too.. :D :D :D
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this got me thinking
what esle
buttons
pins
tablets
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Great idea using Tic Tac containers for herbs - I daresay those tiny packets fit in there nicely.
Your ideas would work well too Uni.
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Clever idea uni!
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Great idea Uni....just have to eat lots of tic-tacs now...! :D
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lets eat lots of Tic Tacs...... :D :D :D
great idea
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With summer upon us and with the price of water these days, I have started collecting water from the kitchen sink in a largish plastic container. It fills quite quickly from rinsing my hands, vegies, TMX, plates before they go into the dishwasher and when it's full I tip it into a bucket which I have under the nearby table (unless I have visitors then the bucket is left at the back door, only a few steps away from the sink). You will be surprised how many buckets of water you fill a day - I get between 4-5 buckets which means 4-5 plants in my garden can have a free drink. I also collect the cold water in the shower until it runs hot.
That's the water bill being looked after, now to work on the electricity bill :-))
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Good idea Judy. I do the same but use a large plastic jug, II water the plants in pots just out side the door. I keep a bottle of liquids sea weed fertilizer under the sink and put a squirt of this into the jug.
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Any tips on reducing electric bills would be great.
Good tip with the water.
H :)
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To reduce electricity bills... Turn things off from standby power. :) Check seals on Fridges and freezers..
Its hard for us, as we have pool pumps, workshop, air conditioners for summer,
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Obbie, so you mean turn off at wall?
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Yes Hally, when the TV is turned off with the remote, it still uses power, so turn off at wall, .
DVD players, CD players, Radios, Coffee jugs, the list goes on.
Our electricity bill is high, but we have a workshop from home.
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Gosh thats a hassle, wouldnt you have to re-programm dvd etc.
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Oh well leave the DVD on Hally. :) :)
Energy ratings on electrical appliances can be checked.
Here is me, sitting in the office with the air con on..
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I must admit i think its easier to leave things on, will turn off tm & kettle though.
H :)
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For the tvs turn off on the tv not the wall this will save power and I turn my washing machine, toaster etc off at the wall
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I turn the microwave off after each use, you don't need to know the time when there are clocks everywhere. Cannot turn the lounge TV off at night because the Foxtel in DH's bedroom is linked to it and he often wakes during the night and turns it on. Fighting a losing battle to keep usage down though what with all the items which need recharging, the latest piece of lifting equipment we were told to leave on charge permanently - I do turn it off at night or if we go out though, more for a safety reason than thinking about usage. Guess I could turn the dishwasher off between uses.
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JD arent sime of the switches hard to get too.
A lot of mine are.
H :)
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There is something on the foxtel that you can have on lower power usage Judy, the button is usually blue and then turns to red after a period of time when not in use. It still turns on as normal just takes several seconds longer and it says no signal. Can ask DH if you are interested.
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Will pm you Yvette.
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i put the dishwasher on and the washing machine on and do the ironing and try to bake my bread all b4 7am.
12am to 7am ( off peak hours)
and i unplug, not just turn off at wall
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No, mine are all easily accessible Hally.
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how clever is this http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/2012/12/a-quick-tip-for-cleaning-kitchen-oil-splatters-fight-oil-with-oil.html
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That's amazing. :D
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Agreed!
Been using mayonnaise today to get labels off jars, still,used a lot of elbow grease too!! LOL that was my work out today.
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I don't know if you can get it over there DJ but Eucalyptus oil gets them off. Also you used to be able to buy a product in the chemist called Zoff.
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I don't know if you can get it over there DJ but Eucalyptus oil gets them off. Also you used to be able to buy a product in the chemist called Zoff.
You can still get zoff under another name - remove.
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Thanks Michele.
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Ah... My eucalyptus oil is still packed!
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DJ I find if you put boiling water inside the jars it sort of melts the glue. I think that Zoff has a sort of orange smell so maybe one of the new orange flavoured stain removers might help.
Gert
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I use some stuff called "dissolveit" for any sticky residue on jars etc. :)
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I use some stuff called "dissolveit" for any sticky residue on jars etc. :)
[/quote
Astarra,
Where do you get that from ? My kids stuck some police stickers all over a glass sliding door and we've been struggling to get it off. This might work !
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I have not see dissolve it in years but I did used to buy it at Coles and Woolies. Bet Bunnings and Masters have it or similar.
Gert
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Gert is right Debbie, Bunnings. If you can't find any let me know and I'll get some for you. :-*
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We use De-Solv It - is that the same?? Orange oil I think, and works GREAT - I do glass etching and use old moccona coffee jars for repurposed tea/coffee/sugar cannisters - so much nicer if you can get all the glue off! (Although MY ones in the cupboard still have glue spots) :-))
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Thank you Gert and Astarra,
I'll get my DH to check it out on his next trip to Bunnings.
Thanks
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I use planet ark Orange power, had it awhile, think bought in the supermarket, not quite as good as Big Kevs goo remover, but that's long and gone from the shelves.
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I remember Big Kevs stuff.
eucalyptus oil works too
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Big Kev's Goo Remover is great
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Big Kev's Goo Remover is great
Can you still buy it?
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Not sure I thought WW or Coles were selling it, I still have a bit left
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Will have to have a look next time I'm at the shops,
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http://www.theyummylife.com/Slow_Cooker_Melted_Chocolate
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Great idea Uni :)
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Yummy Uni :)
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Great idea, I want to give cakepops a go for the first time. So this may be the way to chocolate coat them.
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Yes Mich you could use a wider rimmed jar ;)
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I have made cake pops, but it was messy... :)
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I don't have a slow cooker, but was thinking of perhaps warming up a wheat bag and placing the bowl of melted chocolate on that to keep it warm - but on thinking further, perhaps putting warm water and the bowl in the thermoserver would work as well. Anyone tried that (although there may be problems if the bowl is a bit on the light side - it may be a bit wobbly).
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Keep a spoon in the jar to give it some weight
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how clever is this
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It's a great use of space Uni. ;D That's what the Shakers did with their chairs.We hang our spare shaker chairs on pegs on the wall out of the way ;)
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never heard of the Shakers, thanks to the WWW i now know what a shaker is
how many of you are going to look it up ;D
thanks CC
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how clever is this
Talk about lateral thinking!! (or should that be "vertical"??) Very impressive!! :D
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never heard of the Shakers, thanks to the WWW i now know what a shaker is
how many of you are going to look it up ;D
thanks CC
Me :D ;D :D ;D
Marie
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I've known about shakers for a long time now and love the simplicity and elegance of their workmanship.
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I looked it up too. Feel like its a school assignment ;D
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I looked it up.
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I saw something like this in our Sunday paper.
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Clever way to separate egg white from yolk
This hint has it's own thread but Uni requested that I put it here - sorry Uni I must have missed your request and have only just seen it. Here it is.
SuperMum_of_3
Clever way to separate eggwhite from yolk
There's an easy way to separate egg white & yolk for whipping the whites only.
With the MC in, crack the egg on top of the TM lid and the whites will slide into the bowl, leaving the yolks on top.
Crack as many eggs as you need then remove the lid, hold over a jar or container, take out the MC & the yolks slip into the container which you can pop in the fridge for later use.
If it's the yolk you need in the TM bowl, not the whites, use the same method but put the lid over the storage container first, then over the TM bowl.
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thats a great tip *thumbs up*
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Clever way to separate egg white from yolk
This hint has it's own thread but Uni requested that I put it here - sorry Uni I must have missed your request and have only just seen it. Here it is.
SuperMum_of_3
Clever way to separate eggwhite from yolk
There's an easy way to separate egg white & yolk for whipping the whites only.
With the MC in, crack the egg on top of the TM lid and the whites will slide into the bowl, leaving the yolks on top.
Crack as many eggs as you need then remove the lid, hold over a jar or container, take out the MC & the yolks slip into the container which you can pop in the fridge for later use.
If it's the yolk you need in the TM bowl, not the whites, use the same method but put the lid over the storage container first, then over the TM bowl.
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Great tip. Thanks.
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great idea.
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Here are some really good household tips that I'm sure you will be able to implement at least one or two:
http://www.buzzfeed.com/peggy/27-ways-to-make-your-groceries-last-as-long-as-pos
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Some clever ideas CP, thanks.
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Interesting ideas CP, have written down a few - my favourites that I don't do already are the strawberry treatment, herbs in oil and the spring onion tips.
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(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/03/11/2abu7uty.jpg)
Again, for those who might have missed it!!!!
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CP and Chookie both are great lists.
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Oh love then both! Thanks for sharing!
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I've wrapped some plastic around some bananas, and I've put the spring onions in the freezer. I've got some touch n go strawberries in the freezer so I wished I'd known what to do when I bought them. I need to buy a pair of stockings now :-))
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great tips, thanks
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Interesting tips thanks CP
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Batch cooking this weekend, so that saves $$$$
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love this idea, great way to save some cash for the get togethers ;D
THREE MAGIC NUMBERS TO REDUCE YOUR MORTGAGE!
Am loving this clever tip from Simple Savings member Beth W! What a great way to start a new week of saving!
"Although we're on a tight budget, I've found an easy way to reduce my mortgage interest by $48,000 and the term by four years!...
I have been reading some of the great threads about paying off mortgages faster. I know the interest charged over the term of the loan is unbelievable and that every little bit taken off the principal makes a difference. However, I'm not in a position at the moment to make extra regular repayments and there is no big lump sums of money coming my way anytime soon! But that doesn't mean I can't chip away at my mortgage a tiny bit at a time!
I have my bank's app on my phone so it's easy to transfer money between my accounts. So, every night I transfer the last three numbers of my 'everyday account' onto my mortgage. For example, if I have a balance of $236.87 I transfer $6.87 onto my mortgage. It works out to be between $50 - $70 per week and I don't even notice it!"
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I love that tip Fundj.
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I've been meaning to say that the hint in CP's link regarding storage of lettuce and celery in alfoil is a brilliant tip - they actually do last for weeks. If you use a metal knife to slice the lettuce you will still get a slight browning on the cut edges so it's best to tear pieces away with your hands or use a plastic knife. I have even bought a wilted Cos lettuce out cheaply, removed a few outside leaves, sprinkled it with water and it soon became crisp wrapped in alfoil. This is my favourite hint of all time as I was always throwing leftover lettuce in particular out. I used to chop and freeze celery for adding into soups and stews but I don't need to do that anymore with this new idea and they definitely last 4 weeks or more.
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Uni that is truly brilliant. You wouldn't miss that amount of money on a daily basis.
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All of these tips are fantastic. I am a fan of wrapping celery in alfoil but actually had no idea that the same could be done with broccoli and lettuce. Thank you!
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Protecting cookbooks in the kitchen - this is another tip from my new favourite site - lifehacker.com.au
I don't think we've had this one (http://www.lifehacker.com.au/2013/10/protect-your-cookbooks-in-the-kitchen-with-plastic-wrap/) before -
The next time you want to use your recipe book in the kitchen without messing it up, you can use a common kitchen item: plastic wrap.
Place your cookbook on the counter, cover it with plastic wrap, and you’re good to go. If your recipe requires you to turn a page, you could open it up to the page you want and first wrap that page up. Then, holding that page up, wrap the rest of the book. You’ll be able to move the page while your book stays protected.
The One Pot Chef’s original hack in the video above involves using a plastic bag, such as a Ziploc, but that makes turning pages a little difficult. Plus, your magazine needs to fit into it. However, a Ziploc could be perfect to protect your iPad or other tablet while still being able to read recipes in it (and use the touch screen).
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I have found more ideas to add to this thread. Some are really ingenious, some simple, some not so wonderful ... all interesting though.
See this link (http://www.viralnova.com/awesome-life-hacks/) and I hope there is something there that you can use.
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Some nice tips there Marina. ;D
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Thanks for sharing that link Marina, some very practicl tips there. :)
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Some great tips Marina, thanks for the link.
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Great to see hints with pictures, never would have thought of many of those. Thanks Marina.
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Thanks for those. Most are very helpful, now I just have to remember them.
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I have pre-measured 7g of yeast and marked it on the side of a little measure I keep in my dried yeast container. 1 sachet = 7g
Not a big tip but I like it ;D
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Thanks for the link. Some interesting ideas there.
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Great idea CP.
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Cool idea CP :)
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What a good idea, CP. Thanks.
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Great idea CP.
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Great idea CP, I can never remember if a packet is 7g or 10g
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Thanks for the link. Some great tops there.
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Lots of simple great ideas thanks Marina.
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I was searching for ideas to fix chapped lips this morning and came upon this (http://www.top10homeremedies.com/category/home-remedies) useful site - lots of home remedies for so many problems just using items we have on hand. For my lips I went out into the garden and picked an aloe vera leaf, rubbed my lips with the sap, left it on for 15 minutes, washed off and I did notice a big difference in just that 1 application. It will become part of my morning routine now. Allow yourself plenty of time to browse this site, I spent a long time reading everything ;D
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Judy aloe vera is great for sun burn also.
:)
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hint.....
put your razors in a little cup with olive oil to cover blades, so they don't go rusty :-*
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My aloe vera plant has always come in handy, especially when the GKs were younger. Any bites and they would head out to the garden to pick a leaf. GD used to call it 'aloe bera' when she was tiny.
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Cute.
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bump
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www.oilyrag.co.nz (http://www.oilyrag.co.nz) ;D
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Thanks astarra, had a little browse of some recipes from that site and found some nice, easy ones.
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great way to save heaps of money.......
get the best PHI you can,,
so far we saved $24000, with DH last Sept,
and I am sure thisweek will be expensive rest for me... :)
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It's one thing I will not stoop on! One day if we need it we will have the best care. Hopefully we won't.
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great way to save heaps of money.......
get the best PHI you can,,
so far we saved $24000, with DH last Sept,
and I am sure thisweek will be expensive rest for me... :)
It's easy to negotiate in the public system if you have private cover. They will wear the cost of your excess if you use your private insurance. Harder in the private system.
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i would not go the the CBH, at all.
better to jump on a plane, or be here.....lucky i have a great doctor
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(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/15/5uza3ety.jpg)
;D
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Great label GF LOL
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I love it.
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That's so funny GF :D :D
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That's so funny GF. ;D
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It's impossible to keep all your receipts. So take a photo on your smartphone or iPad as soon as you get home from the shop. It's sufficient proof if you need to validate proof of purchase. Comes in handy for warranty, returns, insurance and probably tax purposes.
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A very good tip CP :)
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What a sensible and wise thing to do CP. thanks.
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I think I have already mentioned before how I cut stale bread into thin slices and bake it in the oven (130 deg) until dry and crunchy to use as crackers. (Tortilla chips are a big favourite here)
The crispy dried bread also makes really good fine breadcrumbs that keep for ages in a jar.
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I used to do that years ago Jo, the AWW Dinner Party No 1 book serves it with different entrees - they call it Melba toast. I haven't done that for a long time but it was great.
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i make crostini with my stable bread so so easy now with the AF
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Posting this here for those saving money post Christmas
Some good recipes from the store cupboards etc etc
http://www.simplesavings.org.uk/downloads/30/21-dollar-challenge-survival.pdf
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i make crostini with my stable bread so so easy now with the AF
I cut stale SD bread into cubes and mix with a little chili oil, bake in AF and serve with soup. If they go soft, a few more minutes in AF.
No will power, so best for me to not go into supermarket.
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I don't know where to put this but wanted to share. While shopping for hard floors( as you do) I was told a great tip from a sales person,for cleaning. Put a splash of dishwasher rinse aid into the water. No streaks and a great shine.
I've put it in the right place for you Denise ;)
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Woww, loving the tips here, especially CP's idea of taking photograph of receipts...
I always misplace receipts and regret later...
Recently after buying thermi, hubby and I have started saving a lot of money by not eating out but having a fancy dinner prepared at home in thermi.. No more store bought soup, no more pizza take away, no more store bought bread and biscuits.. Its surprising as how much you save when you spend on the ingredients rather than the ready made stuff...
Need to read through all the tips though, love this forum even more now :)
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Okay, not sure if this tip has been suggested by anyone on this thread, apologies as I havent read each one of them, but wanted to share this..
As me and hubby are trying to cut down on many of our expenses, we put our dishwasher and washing machine between 10pm-7am, but since we cannot always stay late/wake up early to switch on/off, hubby has bough these timer plugs online on ebay (cost just a couple of bucks)
You can set the timer to start and stop at a particular time, and this is not the timer on the machine but rather the plug point which is nice and reduces the power consumption..
And also, he has bought remote controlled plugs which can be switched off all at once at night instead of going to each plug point to switch it off..
We have observed a lot of difference in our power bills as well :)
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Great ideas, there. Electricity can be so very expensive.
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Thanks for the tips thermilover. :)
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Thanks for your contributions thermilover.
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Yesterday I paniced as I thought I had accidentally let our company car insurance expire so got on to the insurance company to arrange for renewal. As it happened it hadn't expired but I was glad I had actually rung instead of simply paying as, during discussions with the "team member" I was asked if the car was still under finance / hire purchase. It was not and had not been for a year or two. It turns out, because it is now owned outright by the company, the premium came down by over $100. I did not know that finance affected the premium and it means that we had been paying extra for a year or two without even realising.
I have just checked, the saving was $150.00! For those of you with mortgages, it might be worthwhile to check your premiums once you have cleared your mortgage, it could be worth hundres of dollars to you.
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That is very interesting. Thank you for the info.
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I also just phone and ask for a discount to keep me, when the premium comes in the mail.
Do you want to discount this for me, or I will shop around.. works for about 10-15% discount. :)
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Interesting Marina. I do what Obbie does, it works with the house/contents insurance but not with my car insurance. No-one has ever asked if I own them outright so it might be worth running that by them next time.
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I agree with Cuilidh, recently we cleared our finance on the car, and it has reduced the insurance by some 50/100$, hubby was surprised as we did not make that change on the second car on which we cleared the finance an year ago.. As soon as we realized, did the same on the second car as well, and saved few more $ :)
They don't mention this anywhere clearly though... probably a strategy of insurance companies..
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I just changed my car insurance after 26 years to another company, and saved $95, amazing what they will discount.
so that would be $1600-$2000 I have saved on insurance, by changing. :)
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I did the same when I bought my new car too Robyn. Like you I had been with the same company for a very long time. I changed to the RAC ( NRMA) and saved several hundred dollars. I've been a member for nearly 50 years so got an extra discount for that too.
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My own hint: Have you got one of those citrus zesters that give you fine shreds? Use it if you have hard butter to make fine "zoodles" and it will be be easy to spread without softening
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What an excellent idea, CP.
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Love it CP. thanks.
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Woww, nice idea CP, I always melt it in the microwave for few secs, but this idea is much better :)
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A lateral thinker. Thanks.
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Wonderful tip CP :-*
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These are a couple of ideas that I came up with or saw recently (turns out I spotted them a little while later in various recipes and blogs so they are not as original as I thought!). You may already know them, but I thought I would note them down here
If you are using a can or jar of tomatoes or sauce, etc. in your cooking and need to add stock or more liquid, measure it out in the can / jar as this then also serves to rinse out the extra tomato which can be incorporated into your cooking. I used to always rinse the residue left in the cans out then throw it down the drain prior to putting the can / jar into my recycling bin.
Second tip I read recently. If you use coconut cream or coconut milk from cans and you don't need or want the fluid, put the can in the fridge overnight then open the bottom up to drain off the fluid (for future use) and you are left with just the firm or hard coconut cream.
PS It is also time this thread was bumped again as it is so full of great ideas!
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I do the first one but not the second, thanks Cuilidh. :)
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Thanks Cuilidh for the tips, I love this thread too!
I ordered some Chef Aid can covers, I have been using coconut milk, corn and baked beans cans a lot these days and I hate it when I have to store them in the fridge without a proper lid and then they dry out eventually..
Hope these things stop that from happening :)
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I also do the first one but not the coconut one Marina although I had read that one too.
Keep sharing your hints girls.
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Like Julie and Judy I do the first one Marina but haven't heard of the second.But will do that now. :)
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Good ideas, thanks Marina.
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Here are a couple more ideas that I have had recently.
I always struggle when I am vacuum sealing my food. First I freeze anything that contains fluid or will not withstand the pressure of vacuum sealing then I put the frozen items into the sealing bag and have to be sure to wipe off any dampness / fluid around the seal area, otherwise I don't get a true seal ... or at least, this has been my method until I had an "AH HA" moment during the wee hours last night. This has always been a frustrating and time wasting exercise so I came up with this bright idea.
I sacrificed one new bag, trimmed and sliced open both sides of the top open seam (about 3 - 5 cm each side) then cut off the sealed end of the bag so that I ended up with a bag, open at both end. Then all you do is slip the 'sliced' end into the bag you are sealing, pop the frozen item into the cut open end of the cylinder bag and the food slips easily into the bag you are going to seal without any moisture touching the sealing area.
I am so happy. I just transferred and sealed 7 bags of soups and stews in the time it would normally have taken me to prepare one bag! :)
My second 'bright' idea was dicing onions.
On the occasions when I hand slice onion, I top and tail the onion, cut the onion in half then slice each half vertically first, then horizontally and find that the final horizontal slice or two slips all over the place and I end up with all sorts of weirdly diced onion (and sometimes cut fingers). What I have found is if I do a couple of horizontal slices then turn the onion 180 degrees and start slicing the root or top end and work towards the centre I end up with a much more even end product and haven't cut my fingers yet using this method.
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Thanks Marina. Both creative and practical.
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Here I am back with more (bright?) ideas. Actually it is just a link that was in The Age's internet link to Good Food (https://www.goodfood.com.au/recipes/how-to/sarah-wilsons-kitchen-waste-hacks-and-banana-peel-cake-recipe-20190325-h1crf3?promote_channel=edmail&mbnr=MTQ4MDQ5MDY&eid=email:nnn-13omn567-ret_newsl-membereng:nnn-04%2F11%2F2013-recipe-dom-life_and_style-nnn-goodfood-u&campaign_code=13IFW005&list_name=10074_gdf_recipes_nat&instance=2019-03-29--01-19--UTC) - it includes banana skin cake