Going Against the Stain

Who knew bath soap was for more than bathing? Mild, white bar soaps can often easily remove stains that some detergent stain removers can’t. Dampen the stained garment with cold water, then rub the bar of soap across the stain. Using a scrub brush, scrub out the stain, then rinse. Avoid using colored or perfumed soaps, however, as they may stain the clothing even more. For more helpful hints, visit tipking.co.uk.

The Smell of Success

According to tipking.co.uk, kitchen vinegar has been proved to kill some 99 percent of known bacteria, 82 percent of mold and 80 percent of viruses. This is great news for people suffering from allergies or colds and flu. Use vinegar as a disinfectant on your kitchen counters and cutting boards or use it to sanitize your bathroom toilet and sink.

Kitchen Zen

Relax and rejuvenate with this easy stretching exercise courtesy of Ellen Serber and mydailyyoga.com.

Chair Twist: Sit on a straight-backed chair with your feet planted on the ground, thighs parallel. Shift the left leg slightly forward with the right hand on the arm of the chair and the left hand on the right thigh. Inhale and extend the top of the head to the ceiling. Exhale and turn right. Shift the right leg slightly forward and repeat to the left side.

Bookmarks

Having a hard time finding the perfect card or gift wrap? Why not make your own? In fact, with Making Great Bags, Tags, Boxes & Cards by Karen Delquadro, you can learn to make everything from the gift tag to the gift bag this holiday season. Delquadro’s step-by-step instructions help you turn a plain paper bag into professional-quality wrapping with many items you already have on hand.

Feed Your Face

Winter’s cold can wreak havoc on your skin, robbing it of natural moisture. Before buying pricey creams and moisturizers, try this natural skin care recipe, courtesy of WebMD.com and health and beauty expert Deborah Chase.

Mask for Dry Skin
1 Tablespoon buttermilk
1 egg yolk
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon mayonnaise

Stir ­­– but don’t whip – ingredients in a bowl. Apply mask with a cotton ball, let it harden for 15 to 30 minutes, then rinse with cool water.