What Is Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray? How Does It Work?

Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray is a concentrated formula designed to be used outdoors on grass, plants, and areas frequented by outdoor animals. The formula combines natural insecticides and pesticides and essential oils to create a potent treatment for outdoor areas. All you have to do is spray the product onto the places where you believe bugs are present, and the active ingredients do the rest. The product is rated to kill and prevent fleas, ticks, and mosquitos. This particular product comes with a hose sprayer adapter that makes treating large areas very easy. The treatment should kill certain bugs on contact, and the formula should work to prevent and repel insects in the area for up to one week (weather depending).

Here is what I discovered during the testing of Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray, including my firsthand experience, the ingredients, an FAQ section, and more.

Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray – A Quick Look

Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray Pricing

Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray is priced at $46 on Innovet’s website. At the time of writing this, Innovet was the only seller that I could find for this product (meaning you can’t price shop). Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray seems to be frequently on sale for $35.50, a 23% savings.

Innovet also allows you to subscribe to repeat shipping orders. If you subscribe, you save an additional 15%. That drops the price to $30 per bottle. You have to choose a frequency at which you want to receive this product in the future. You can choose 30, 45, 60, or 90 days.

What to Expect from Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray

Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray is a simple and straightforward product. Everything you need comes right in the box. What you will need from your end is a working spigot and a hose to attach it to. You can expect great short-term effectiveness, a heavenly smell, and a safe, natural formula. Everything works as you would expect. The bottle is clearly labeled and gives you all of the information you need. There are no other instructions, so Innovet assumes you know how to attach a hose sprayer to a bottle.

Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray Contents

Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray Effectiveness

I felt like I noticed the results right away. The ability to see the spray soak your lawn and the visceral scent makes you feel like you are getting instant results. Over time, the scent seems to go away. The product is rated for “up to one week” of protection, which means it could actually be less than a week, depending on the environmental conditions.

The product seems effective, and it is a pleasure to use. I only wish that it lasted longer. The thing about natural ingredients, in most cases, is that they do not last as long as synthetic products. Some synthetic products can last up to a month or more before you have to reapply. But they are also filled with undesirable chemicals. So, there is a big tradeoff there.

Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray Product Variety

There are two different versions of the Innovet Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray. The product we reviewed was the Innovet Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray with Hose Adapter. The other variety is the same product, the same bottle, except that it has a traditional push sprayer on it like a standard cleaning supply bottle. The hose adapter feels essential if you are trying to treat a yard or garden. The standard sprayer might be fine for small areas like a porch, individual kennels, or flower beds.

Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray Ingredients and Scent

Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray User Experience

This product is very straightforward to use. I took it out of the box (it was bubble wrapped, which was a nice touch to protect it during shipping) and assembled it. Assembly took just a couple of minutes. All you need to do is insert the straw, remove the safety cap, and screw the sprayer into place. Then, just hook up your hose, point, and shoot. Overall, it was very simple. The scent was immediately noticeable, and that is how I knew that I had assembled it properly and that the product was working as intended.

Is Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray a Good Value?

It depends. If you want something that gives you 100% protection, around the clock, 24/7, then this product is going to get very expensive very fast. Depending on how much you use it or what kind of area you are spraying, you could end up spending $35–$70 per month. However, if you are willing to use this product sparingly or in specific situations, like before a party or if you see stray animals in your yard, it will last much longer, which instantly boosts the value. I plan on using it sparingly (my dog is on flea and tick prevention, so it is not critical to heavily use this spray). The cost plus the amazing scent is a good value for my particular usage.

FAQ

Does Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray Really Smell Good?

Yes. Scents are somewhat subjective, but this formula really smells amazing. It was the first thing I noticed when using the product. It simply smells amazing. That makes it great for spraying in areas of your yard that might stink due to activities by your dog.

How Long Does the Yard Control Last?

The product is rated to repel and kill insects for up to one week. The natural ingredients are safe, but they also dissolve and absorb into the dirt over time. You will have to reapply periodically to keep up the protection for extended periods of time.

Is Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray Easy to Use?

Yes. It only took me a couple of seconds to hook up the hose and turn the sprayer on. It immediately started spraying, and the scent hit right away. The only part I didn’t enjoy was disconnecting the bottle, which sprayed me in the face due to built up pressure.

Is Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray Safe for Animals?

Yes. With a formula that is 99% natural, there is nothing here that is dangerous to dogs. You should avoid spraying your dog with this product, and you should try to avoid getting any in the eyes or mouth, but your dog can immediately go out into the yard once you are finished spraying. You can use this around both dogs and cats that are older than 9 months old. You can even spray outdoor kennels as long as you follow the instructions provided on the bottle.

What Does Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray Repel?

Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray is rated to kill and or repel mosquitos, ticks, and fleas. It also seems to upset ants, and the oils will likely disrupt ants’ natural communication methods. I used the spray on a couple of small wasp nests on my porch while I was testing it, and it cleared the wasps out pretty well.

Our Experience With Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray

I received Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray in a simple box. Everything I needed was arranged nicely and bubble wrapped for protection. The first thing I did after opening the box was scour the bottle for information. All of the pertinent information was labeled clearly and was easy to read right on the bottle. The next thing I did was scour the ingredients list looking for anything that I might have an issue with. I didn’t find any problematic ingredients. Then I had my veterinarian look at the ingredients to see if I might have missed anything. She also gave the ingredients list a thumbs up.

After that, I spent approximately 2 minutes setting up the bottle. I removed the cap, popped off the safety seal, screwed on the adapter, screwed on the hose, and hit the water. The product worked flawlessly. The adapter has three settings, clean, rinse, and OFF which is easy to read and easy to use. I sprayed a large area around my house, focusing on the places nearest to my most frequented outdoor spaces (porch, deck, backyard etc.). I also sprayed some ant piles and wasp nests for research purposes. The wasps instantly dropped to the ground, but I couldn’t tell if they had died or were just shocked.

The product smelled great, was easy to use, and made me feel like it was effective right away. I am already planning on giving the area around my large front deck a good soaking in a day or so to re-up the smell and protective measures.

I used roughly a fifth of the bottle in my experimental session, which was less than I expected when I first started testing. Overall, I was very happy with the product and am definitely planning on using it again.

Conclusion

Most dogs and cats are on flea and tick prevention. Innovet’s Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray gives you another layer of protection for your outdoor spaces. My vet said this product would be good to use if you have a large presence of stray animals or wild animals. For example, if you see stray cats wandering through your yard or have spotted raccoons or possums roaming about, you can use this spray to try and kill any pests they might try to drop in your lawn. The best thing about the product was the scent. I considered getting the indoor version just so I could spray some stuff to get the smell inside as well as outside. Overall, this product received 4.2 out of 5 stars from us and is definitely worth trying out.

The post Innovet Biopel Outdoor Insect Control Spray Review 2023: Our Expert’s Opinion appeared first on House Grail.

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What Is Sunday Lawn Care? How Does It Work?

The onset of Spring is a wonderful paradox to behold. The birds are singing, the sun is shining, and the dandelions are growing in that burnt patch of your yard where the dog loves to pee. It’s depressing! You don’t even know what kind of soil you have or why that one other part of your lawn always comes in yellow instead of green.

Spring shouldn’t be so complicated. That’s where Sunday comes in with a kit specifically designed just for your yard, the tools to use it, handy web resources that teach you how to use it, and on-call experts to answer those “but I can’t FIND an article for this on your website!” questions.

Stop buying that expensive name brand fertilizer from the local big-box hardware chain and hoping that throwing extra money at fancy packaging will save your yard, or worse yet, paying that REALLY expensive service that shows up in the van and keeps you sedentary on the one day you should be out getting some rays and exercise! Throw the extra money at Sunday and get stuff that works because it’s based on a test of your actual soil and established science.

Sunday Lawn Care – A Quick Look

Sunday Lawn Care Pricing

I’m a small homesteader (around 5 acres) in the Midwest (US). When I put in the 3 acres I manage as my yard, the Sunday ordering wizard effectively told me my yard was too big and I’d have to manually get extra supplies. Fair enough. The business is pointed at in-city types, so I decided to test the service on a part of my yard that was equivalent to the lawn I had when I rented a house closer to the city.

If you live on acreage, Sunday can supply your fertilizer needs, but you’ll need extra product. I highly recommend developing a working relationship with your local farm supply folks and learning how to do it yourself, especially if you’re growing something other than a lawn on your land.

Sunday is going to make your lawn look better than your neighbor’s, not provide the exact nutrients you need for agroforestry.

For what you get, I think Sunday is fairly priced.

What to Expect From Sunday Lawn Care

When you sign up with Sunday, you’ll spend a few minutes maximum punching in information about where you live, how big your yard is, and if you have any special requirements (like pets that pee in your yard). The service will line you up with the ideal products, you pay, and they ship them to you.

When the 3-4 big boxes arrive, you’ll find they’re intuitive, easy to use, and everything you need is there. No trips back to the store because you didn’t realize you needed a sprayer, or forgot the Magic Potion of Getting Rid of Dandelions. Yup, that’s in there too!

Sunday Lawn Care Contents

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Ease of Use

If you have used fertilizer before, then you will find Sunday products very easy to use. They don’t work appreciably differently from most fertilizer products, and they’re shipped right to your door.

If you haven’t used fertilizers before, then there is a learning curve. Thankfully, Sunday has a very informative website that will help you learn how to use their fertilizer products. All the equipment that you’ll be using is made by Sunday and is specific to the products that you received, the only exception of this will be the fertilizer spreader that you purchase and those are relatively straightforward, you should be able to get by with the manual and maybe a couple YouTube videos on the subject.

Effectiveness

Sunday’s products work. Even the great DIY expert, Bob Vila, is a big fan of Sunday, and he has a glowing review that you can find on Google easily enough. He’s not wrong. Their fertilizers are top-notch, and because they match the fertilizer that you need to the soil type that you have, it just works. In my experience, trying to replicate these kinds of results on your own without the advantage of sending off your soil to a third party lab for thorough testing is remarkably difficult. I will be honest, I eventually stopped pursuing “The Perfect Lawn” simply because it was difficult.

While it’s a bit early to see the results in my lawn, I’ve already noticed more green and more resilience in my grass, as well as pet patches and the part of my lawn that was dug up to bury propane lines recovering much faster than it was on its own.

Price

This is the one place I personally balk at any lawn care service. For the price and quality you get, Sunday is amazing – but you will be paying a few to several hundred dollars a year to get a perfect lawn. For me, that’s steep.

For the Ultimate Urban Weekend Warrior, this may be the edge you need against Jim, the next door neighbor who is always one home improvement project ahead of you. It may free up valuable time otherwise wasted on soil guesswork to build that Ultimate Backyard Patio, set up those string lights (mine change color in time with the music, Jim!), and assemble that ultimate grill (it smokes, Jim, and fits 12 more brats at once than yours!).

All in-city-living vanity aside, Sunday is the ultimate in shortcutting your way to a gorgeous lawn, and costs a lot less than paying a lawn service that shows up (you provide the labor). It’s a great compromise and leaves you still feeling like you’ve got that DIY spirit.

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Sustainability

Sunday is very proud of their sustainability. As a small homesteader who uses vermicomposting, standard composting, raises free-range chickens, doesn’t own a garbage disposal, and relies on a well for water, I heartily endorse their low or no pesticide approach. If you think spraying pesticides all over your yard is good for you or anyone else, I strongly recommend you read up on the subject and also study the alternatives. There are amazing, low effort ways to get along with the life around us that aren’t so toxic. Pesticides and herbicides should be chosen for their surgical precision, doing their jobs only where and when they’re needed to preserve all of that life we continue to learn is precious and necessary for our continued stewardship of this globe!

Sunday actually helps you turn your lawn into an eco-friendly, thick, living turf. Read their article on it! If you’ve ever stuck a shovel into your lawn and been disappointed at hitting rock or clearly dead stuff two inches down, look at the photo of the turf they’ll help you develop over the years. Living soil should be several inches of a loam that moves almost like it’s alive when you first dig it up. It’s healthy, it’s biodiverse, and I’m really glad to see Sunday be successful in promoting a product that makes it happen for the average homeowner.

Is Sunday Lawn Care a Good Value?

If you want a lawn care service and you don’t mind doing the (minimal) labor, I’m not sure it gets better than Sunday. It’s easy to understand, easy to use, takes an approach of minimal harm/change to the land, and will work sustainably for years.

If you’re like me and don’t mind biodiversity in your lawn that includes  –shudders— WEEDS (Dandelion wine is a thing, and I actually cultivate them for that and their health benefits!), then Sunday is a bit too expensive and a bit too urban/one-size-fits-all for you. You’ll need to continue puttering along with your own study and buying (or making) your own fertilizers and compost.

If you fall into the latter category you may look at the sprayers provided and note they’re not solid brass with stainless steel fittings. That’s okay. This isn’t made for your fifteen-acre project, and anyone with a less than 1 acre yard they just want to look better than Jim’s already is going to get all the use out of those tools that they need!

FAQ

Is everything needed for use provided?

Yes, except a spreader for the powdered fertilizer. You can get push versions or carry versions of these. If you have a very, very small yard (1/3rd an acre or less of grass), you might get away with a wearable version. If you have more than ½ an acre, I highly recommend you opt for a wheeled push model. Your back will love you for it.

Do I have to buy any other lawn products?

Nope. It comes with everything you need, unless you have some very specialized problem outside basic lawn needs (killing woody brush, etc).

Do I need to keep buying it?

Yes. Like with any lawn products, you will need to keep applying it, although the initial treatments are going to be the most intensive and require the most product. Each year you’ll move more toward maintaining excellence as opposed to starting from scratch.

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Our Experience With Sunday Lawn Care

I received 4 decent-sized boxes of fertilizer, sprayers, a soil sample-taking kit, sprays for pet burn areas, and dandelion herbicide.

Everything was packaged pretty well. One of the boxes with 4 bags of fertilizer busted a little in shipping, but the fertilizer inside was still intact. One really nice touch with the packaging is that Sunday used cardboard with so little coloring on it that it’s compostable – even vermicomposting, meaning my worms accept it as food once it’s torn up and moistened! Don’t let that gross you out too much. Worms are a much better way to get rid of certain waste than landfills or garbage disposal. They’re like having a paper recycling center in your own garage.

I have done lawn care before and worked at a large-chain hardware store early in my career (that’s why I recommend skipping them for mom and pop places!), so I didn’t find any of the products challenging to use. You mix the concentrates in the provided spray bag and use the included electric sprayer. Some of the other liquid products you attach to your garden hose. Each product has a QR code that takes you to the website to show you how to use it.

Honestly, if I could give Sunday any feedback, it would be this: Print more complete directions and stick them in the box. QR codes are cool, and they work, but if I were new to this and I were out in my backyard all sweaty and mucky in the bright sun, the last thing I want to do is try to operate my phone with my yardwork gloves on and watch a video. Graphics-based directions printed in the inside of the box or just a one-pager provided for each product shipped would be sufficient to show how the products are used for most folks!

As I said earlier, it’s a little early for me to see major results, but in the couple weeks I’ve had the products it’s clear to me they’re already working. If you’re after a subscription lawn care service, you won’t be unhappy with Sunday.

Conclusion

Wrapping up, Sunday Lawn Care is a serious contender in the lawn care world, straddling the line between pure DIY and paying the people in the big green van to do the work for you. Doing the labor yourself saves big bucks, and the results are every bit as good (if not better).

For those of us who homestead and don’t mind seeing plants other than grass in their 5 acre yards, it may not be the best choice, and both the ordering process and quality of tools provided drive that point home. I’d also like to see better directions in the box.

That said, Sunday is rolling into urban areas more and more and I can see why – they’re not letting the grass grow under their feet – ha! They are environmentally conscious, easy to use, and should make the average yard-haver very happy.

The post Sunday Lawn Care Review 2023: Our Expert’s Opinion appeared first on House Grail.

Cleaning is part of our lives. This is true whether we like it or not. You may be the type of person who leaps out of bed each morning, making it in your wake, then proceeds through the house finding things you can clean and improve. Then again, you could be a procrastinator who hates cleaning and wishes you could just hire someone to do it for you. Either way, there’s no denying it has to be done. The key, however, when it comes to cleaning, is to have the right cleaning supplies to tackle the jobs that may spring up around your home. Now, don’t act rashly. Saying you need supplies doesn’t mean you need them all. No, a good list of basics can make cleaning effective and easy. In this review, we’re going to take a look at our choices for the 10 best cleaning supplies at Target. (Yes, this is a store that most people have easy access to.) The items on this list will help you get your cleaning supply closet squared away and prepared for the biggest and smallest cleaning jobs that may pop up around your home.

A Quick Comparison of Our Winners (2023)

Rating	Image	Product	Details
Best Overall		Dawn Platinum Powerwash	The spray feature focuses on the area needing to be cleaned The powerful formula is 5x faster than the original Dawn Can be safely used for multiple cleaning projects	CHECK PRICE
Best Value		Method Antibacterial All Purpose Spray	Kills up to 99.9% of common household germs Cleans most surfaces safely Affordable	CHECK PRICE
Premium Choice		Rubbermaid Power Scrubber	Designed to fit into tight areas for better cleaning Comes with an extra cleaning head Fits comfortably in your hand	CHECK PRICE
		Mr. Clean Magic Erasers	No harsh chemicals are needed for cleaning Can be used on multiple surfaces Multiple types to buy	CHECK PRICE
		Scrubbing Bubbles Grime Fighter Bathroom Cleaner	Tough on soap scum Easy to use Kills germs and bacteria inside your bathroom	CHECK PRICE

The 10 Best Cleaning Supplies at Target

1. Dawn Platinum Powerwash – Best Overall

Dawn is a household name. For years we’ve heard about its grease-cutting capabilities when it comes to cleaning caked-on messes from our dishes. Our choice for the best overall cleaning supply at Target is Dawn Platinum Powerwash. This spray is an ideal way to focus that cleaning power on specific areas, whether it is on your dishes or not. One of the most impressive things about this cleaner is that it sprays directly where you need it. You’ll also find that the formula is powerful and safe enough to use throughout any part of your home. With a little Dawn Platinum Powerwash and a bit of elbow grease you can easily clean your oven, and all parts of your kitchen, or even scrub away grime in your bathtub. They even offer handy refills instead of buying a new spray bottle each time you run out.

The only downside to this cleaning supply is that it runs out rather quickly. Yes, the refills are handy, but if you put the power of Dawn to use in multiple areas of your home, alongside your dishwashing needs, you’ll find yourself going through refills rather quickly.

2. Method Antibacterial All Purpose Spray – Best Value

For properly cleaning an area, having an all-purpose spray makes life easier. When you can add antibacterial properties, even better. This is why we’ve chosen Method Antibacterial All Purpose Spray as our best cleaning supply at Target for the money. Method comes in multiple scents that allow you to choose the freshness you have in your home. We also love the cleaning power behind it. Countertops and other surface areas are left with a great shine when using this product. Made with citric acid, this spray can kill up to 99.9% of common household germs. Add in the fact that this cleaner is very affordable and it’s a winning combination for your home.

While Method offers several fragrance options to choose from, some of the scents featured in their all-purpose spray can be quite strong. People with sensitivities may not be able to use this product in multiple areas in the home due to this. But, we think it’s one of the best cleaning supplies at Target for the money.

3. Rubbermaid Power Scrubber – Premium Choice

At times, build-up happens around the house. This is why having cleaning supplies with a little power comes in handy. The Rubbermaid Power Scrubber is ideal for this purpose. The oscillating head on this power scrubber increases cleaning time. You can finish your job quicker and get back to your daily activities. We also like that the size and design of the brush head make it easy for cleaning hard-to-reach areas and scouring grout lines. The power scrubber also features two settings, comes with an extra head, is designed to be comfortable in your hand, and even includes batteries for getting started.

Keep in mind, when purchasing this power scrubber, it is not intended for big jobs. If you have a lot of areas to clean in your house, this wouldn’t be the best option. While it’s great at getting into the difficult-to-reach areas when you’re cleaning, the overall durability will be lacking if you attempt long-term use.

4. Mr. Clean Magic Erasers

Mr. Clean Magic Erasers have been around for a long time. However, it’s difficult to not include them in a Target cleaning supply review. Now, you can even find them designed specifically for problem areas like the kitchen and bathroom. The original Mr. Clean Magic Erasers work great when trying to rid your home of tough stains. They include no harsh chemicals and only need water added to do the job. What you’ll really love is the fact that these little sponges last for a long time. They can be used on walls, stoves, countertops, tubs, and almost any surface you need to clean.

Although they are made from Durafoam and designed to be long-lasting, you will find that a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser will break apart or rip when tackling major cleaning jobs. If you’re planning on cleaning rough surfaces, you may be better suited to choosing one of the other Mr. Clean Magic Eraser options designed specifically for those issues.

5. Scrubbing Bubbles Grime Fighter Bathroom Cleaner

Scrubbing Bubbles Grime Fighter is a tough cleaner for one of the most used rooms of your home, the bathroom. This cleaner can be used on multiple surfaces inside your bathroom and attacks grime with its special formula. Scrubbing Bubbles is tough on soap scum and is easy to use. For many cleans, you’ll find that you simply spray and let the bubbles do the work. For tougher, built-in stains and grime, a bit of elbow grease may be required. We also like that it is antibacterial and leaves a fresh, citrus scent after use.

Most people who are used to Scrubbing Bubbles have seen the foam. This spray works in the same way but does not foam up like it used to. If you would prefer the foam, it is still available.

6. O’ Cedar EasyWring Spin Mop and Bucket System

Gone are the days of using a traditional mop and bucket when you have the O’ Cedar EasyWring Spin Mop and Bucket System. This cleaning tool is easy to use on light cleaning days or extremely handy for spring cleaning. The microfiber mop head is designed to remove 99% of the dirt, grime, and bacteria on your floors without the addition of harsh cleaners. However, the design of this mop allows you to add whatever cleaner you desire without having to use your hands to wring out the mop. One mop head lasts for 3 months and is shaped so that it can easily fit into corners or tight, hard-to-reach places. The handle extends up to 48 inches and the bucket features a handy foot pedal along with a splash guard.

While this mop system is a great way to avoid wringing out a dirty mop, there is a flaw. Several users complain of the mop head randomly coming loose when tackling scrubbing jobs. You’ll also notice that the handle may be considered too short and uncomfortable for taller people.

7. Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Cleaning the toilet is the one job no one wants. Thankfully, Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner can make it easier. This cleaning gel can be applied just beneath the rim of the toilet and left to do its work. The thickness of the gel coats the entire toilet with Lysol’s germ-killing formula to rid surfaces of up to 99.9% of bacteria. The design of the bottle allows you to use the gel in hard-to-reach areas of your toilet to leave things sparkling clean afterward.

This toilet bowl cleaner is advertised as strong enough to use without the need for scrubbing. However, if you have stains or wear on your toilet, a toilet brush or wand will be needed to get things tidied up.

8. Clorox Toilet Wand Toilet Cleaning System

If the Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner isn’t enough to tackle your cleaning needs, the Clorox Toilet Wand Toilet Cleaning System is a great addition to your arsenal. This system comes with a handy wand to make reaching into the toilet easier and less messy. The scrubbing heads are hexagon shaped to reach areas well while being pre-loaded with Clorox cleaner to help eliminate the issue and 99.9 % of germs. When you’re finished, simply pop the head off with the release and replace the wand with its handy storage caddy. The cleaning is much better than what you’d experience using a toilet brush.

Unfortunately, each pad is only a one-use item. After cleaning, they must be disposed of in the trash can (definitely not the toilet). This leaves users having to buy replacement scrubbers often as the initial starter pack only comes with 6.

9. Swiffer Duster Heavy Duty Pet Starter System

Dust is an issue anywhere you go, especially if animals are involved. When grabbing the best cleaning supplies to deal with this issue, the Swiffer Duster Heavy Duty Pet Starter System comes in handy. Swiffer dusters have been around for a long time. You may wonder what makes this one different. It has a 360-degree design like several other Swiffers on the market and an extendable wand, but being targeted for pet hair makes this one a bit better in the long run. You can still pick up dust and pet hair on fan blades, tables, and almost any surface but you’ll also get the fresh scent of Febreze to leave rooms smelling great.

The biggest downside to any Swiffer product is the cost. Yes, the starter pack is very affordable, but if you use the duster often, you’ll find yourself needing to buy lots of replacement duster packs. This can become costly, especially if you have lots of animals in your home to clean up after.

10. Dapple All Purpose Cleaning Wipes

If you have kids around the house, using harsh chemicals when cleaning can be dangerous. You also need something you can grab quickly to wipe up messes and get back to your daily routine. Dapple All Purpose Cleaning Wipes have combined both of those needs into one product. These wipes are safe to use on surfaces your little ones may touch. This includes counters, furniture, and even the toys they get a little rough with. They are free of any dangerous additives, are plant-based, have been tested by pediatricians, and even won the Clean Label Purity Award. Add in the fact they work great and you have a great addition to your cleaning supply list.

The biggest difference you’ll see between Dapple All Purpose Cleaning Wipes and others on the market is the wetness. These wipes are only slightly damp. This means you may need more than one for a job. Perforation is also an issue. They do not pull out easily and can leave you struggling to get what you need when messes occur.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Pick the Best Cleaning Supplies at Target

While there are tons of cleaning supplies you’ll find available at Target, these are our favorites. You may be curious as to how we picked them. When choosing cleaning supplies, you need to have all your bases covered. Yes, there are more tools and cleaners we could have listed but we wanted to share a little of everything. Now, let’s check out the other criteria we took into consideration when choosing our cleaning supplies so you can have a good idea of what you should keep in mind when shopping for your favorites.

Cleaning Power

Yes, cleaning power is a major concern when choosing your supplies. The last thing you want is to buy cleaners or tools that don’t function as promised. With the cleaning supplies on our list, they do what they promise. Now, does that mean one squirt of toilet bowl cleaner or power wash is going to magically melt away grease and grime? No, it doesn’t. That’s the case with most cleaning supplies. Yes, they work well, but nothing is going to make cleaning a sit back and let the product do it situation.

Functionality

Have you ever run out and bought a popular item then realized you didn’t really need it? That can happen anytime you step into Target. Especially when buying cleaning supplies. People like to have a new thing or grab something that looks cool. While it’s your money and you can do what you want, we kept functionality in mind when choosing the items on this list. All of these cleaning supplies can be used daily to make life easier for you. We didn’t feel there was a need to cover products that would simply sit under the cabinet or in the back of the closet collecting more dust for you to clean.

Affordability

No one wants to waste all their money buying cleaning supplies. Luckily, Target is a great place to get deals on everyday items. As you’ll see, the most expensive items on this cleaning supply list are the tools, not the cleaners themselves. For example, the O’ Cedar Spin Mop could seem like an expensive purchase. However, this is a cleaning tool that can be used for quite some time. It will pay for itself in only a few uses. Especially if you allow the antibacterial mop head to do the job instead of adding chemicals to the bucket.

Conclusion

There you have it, our list of the 10 best cleaning supplies at Target. If you want to get control of your home’s cleaning needs, any of the products on this list are great to add to your cleaning supply closet. Our favorite, however, is the Dawn Platinum Powerwash. It offers a great clean and can be used almost anywhere in the house. Another we like, especially for those on a budget, is the Method Antibacterial All Purpose Spray. It kills germs and bacteria throughout your home and is reasonably priced. The Rubbermaid Power Scrubber is our premium choice, as it can easily scrub away built-up dirt and grime. Take this list with you on your next trip to Target and grab the right cleaning supplies for your home.

Featured Image Credit: Lucy Lulu, Shutterstock

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With a model meeting the needs of modern consumers, a low rate is only one reason many renters are moving to Lemonade. Discover why you should spare a few minutes for a quote as we explore the coverage and cost of Lemonade renters insurance in 2023.

The Importance of Renter’s Insurance

Most renters can’t afford to put off getting renters insurance. At a national average of about $15 per month, renters insurance helps you cover unexpected losses from theft, fire, natural disasters, water damage, and liability for bodily injury that occurs on your property.¹ Many policies can even help you pay for temporary housing if a covered incident wrecked your apartment.

It typically costs less than $20 monthly for at least $20,000 worth of property insurance. You still have to cover your deductible with any claims and pay around $500 or more before your insurance kicks in. But if someone breaks into your home and takes all of your electronics or a fire destroys everything, it’s a small price to pay to put the pieces back together.

How Much Does Lemonade Renters Insurance Cost?

One of Lemonade’s primary selling points for its renter’s insurance policies is their low monthly costs, which the company advertises as starting at $5 per month. Prices vary according to location and other variables based on your insurance coverage choices, such as your deductible and coverage limit. Here’s an idea of how the two can affect your rates based on an actual Lemonade quote.

Note: Quote based on a 35-year-old male renter in New York, NY

Insurance rates also change according to your medical liability coverage for medical expenses and loss of use coverage to pay for living expenses if your home is unlivable. Lemonade’s coverage amounts allow you to get the kind of insurance you want at a price you can afford. Ranges for their coverage areas include:

With the bare minimum coverage at each level and a $2,500 deductible, our 35-year-old New Yorker will only pay $60.00 per year or $5.00 per month. On the other end of the spectrum, the highest limits and lowest deductible ($250) costs $107.67 per month.

Lemonade Renters Insurance Discounts

Lemonade offers numerous ways to save with its renter’s insurance policies. A fire or burglar alarm can net another 1–2 percentage points off your premium, as can an annual payoff plan where one payment covers an entire year.

You also have the option to bundle with a Lemonade pet health and auto insurance plan. Auto insurance is only available in Illinois, Ohio, Tennessee, and Texas, but pet health insurance is now optional in 37 states (plus D.C.). Lemonade continues to expand. You can get instant updates on new insurance opportunities in your state with their regional rollout notification system.

Additional Costs to Anticipate

Additional insurance for valuables is available through Lemonade’s renter’s insurance plans. Covering expensive items such as jewelry, fine art, bikes, and instruments, these add-ons cost roughly an extra $0.15–$2.00 per month for every $1,000 in coverage, depending on the item.

Lemonade lets you add your spouse to your policy free of charge and your landlord as an interested party to keep them aware of insurance changes. Additional monthly coverages include water back-up in case a sewer backs up, landlord property damage, and appliance breakdown coverage for appliances and electronics that fail.

How Often Should I Shop Renters Insurance?

Renter’s insurance is often inexpensive enough for many renters to renew their policies without shopping around. According to SafeHome’s 2022 Renters Insurance Industry Report, 55% of renters have renters insurance. But of those with insurance, only 14% plan to shop for a new policy. Meanwhile, only 16% of uninsured renters expect to buy insurance within 12 months.

As a general rule, checking insurance rates is a wise idea about 2–3 weeks before your current plan expires. But if you’re dissatisfied with it, there’s rarely a wrong time to look for a different provider or policy. Shopping for new renters insurance policies every 6 months can help you stay on top of missed discounts and unique coverage combinations to match your needs better.

With the ease of use and notably low monthly costs for coverage, exploring Lemonade’s offerings is worth the short, hassle-free process of getting a quote. Even basic insurance of around $5 per month can provide a substantial safety net when the unimaginable strikes. If you’ve shopped Lemonade before but couldn’t obtain coverage in your area, they’re constantly expanding, and new services may now be available.

What Does Lemonade Renter’s Insurance Cover?

Lemonade insurance is generally inexpensive but doesn’t offset its low costs with subpar insurance. Its renter’s insurance covers all the perils you would expect in a typical plan, including:

Lemonade pays out on plans according to the replacement value of the items. Unlike actual cash value, replacement value does not consider depreciation but rather the current cost of a similar model. For instance, if you lost a $300 pair of shoes, and those same shoes are now available for $250, you’ll receive $250 to replace them.

Plans do not cover floods, earthquakes (except in California and Arkansas), or mold and pest-related damage. Coverage also doesn’t extend to your landlord’s property or your roommate’s items. You can add a spouse for free and a significant other for an additional monthly fee.

Lemonade Renters Insurance Add-Ons

Scheduled personal property coverage for expensive items, including bikes, fine art, instruments, jewelry, and cameras, is also optional. The extra insurance provides up to an additional $50,000 in relief, depending on the item, but also gives you bonus perks beyond your other standard coverage. Claims on these items have no deductible, and you can make them on accidental damage and mysterious loss.

Equipment breakdown coverage, another add-on, can cover appliances and electronics if they fail from an electrical or mechanical malfunction. You can also get a food loss of up to $10,000 if the fridge goes out. Coverage only costs around $3 a month.

How to Handle Lemonade Renter’s Insurance Claims

Lemonade offers much more than low prices. The company gained notoriety quickly since its founding in 2015, thanks to a blend of exceptional pricing, customer service, and user experience centered around its AI-driven platform.

A critical component of that experience is the quick and simple claims process. While many companies can take 1–4 weeks to process a claim, Lemonade streamlines the process with the convenience of their app. With the click of a button and a submitted video or photos of your claim situation, you can often get an instant payout within minutes.

Final Thoughts

Lemonade shakes up traditional insurance with its unique position as a transparent and customer-centric provider. Obtaining coverage takes only a few seconds, claims can pay out in less than two minutes, and the Giveback program lets you contribute to a meaningful charity without lifting a finger. Renter’s insurance is generally inexpensive when you choose Lemonade, but the inherent convenience and consciousness truly set it apart.

Featured Image Credit: Vitalii Vodolazskyi, Shutterstock

The post How Much Does Lemonade Renter’s Insurance Cost? (2023 Update) appeared first on House Grail.

Oiling keeps the moving parts lubricated and prevents friction and wear, prolonging your sewing machine’s life. Regular oiling prevents the accumulation of dirt and thread particles, ensuring smooth and consistent stitching.

Whether you’re a beginner in sewing or a seasoned pro, proper maintenance is key to your sewing machine’s durability and performance. In this handy guide, we’ll give you tips on how to oil your sewing machine to keep it in excellent condition and avoid costly repairs.

The 12 Tips on How to Oil a Sewing Machine

1. Disassemble a Few Parts at a Time

Before oiling your sewing machine, you need to disassemble its parts. However, it’s advisable to take apart these parts bit by bit so that you won’t struggle when reassembling it later.

Take pictures every step of the way, so you’ll know exactly where each component belongs when reassembling it.

Most importantly, follow the instructions manual.

2. Use the Right Type of Oil/Lubricant

Don’t use any other type of oil apart from sewing machine oil. There are two types of sewing machine oils: mineral oils extracted from synthetic oils and petrochemicals oil that is white and watery without any smell. Tri-flow oil is also an excellent alternative to sewing machine oil.

Avoid motor oil, all-purpose oil, petroleum jelly, or other automotive lubricants. Also, don’t use WD40¹, as it doesn’t keep the machine lubricated for long.

3. Unplug the Machine from the Power Source

If yours is an electric sewing machine, unplug it from the power source before oiling it. This prevents accidents such as electric shock or injury to your fingers.

To avoid burns, wait for the machine to cool down before applying oil. These simple precautions can help keep you safe while maintaining your sewing machine.

4. Use the Manual

Sewing machines are different. So, before you attempt any oiling or maintenance procedure, consult the manual for directions on how to oil your specific sewing machine well.

Some instruction manuals have pictures and explanations on applying oil, how long you should do it, and where to oil.

5. Have an Oiling Frequency

The general rule of thumb is to oil your sewing machine every three or four bobbin changes. You can also apply a drop of oil after using it for eight hours.

If you use your sewing machine often, apply oil frequently. Also, oil if your machine has a squeaky sound or if it’s running rough. Clean and oil the hook area as soon as you’ve sewed each day.

However, if you work with lighter fabrics and only use your sewing machine occasionally, you don’t need to oil it every other time. The oiling frequency depends on fabric type, sewing machine design, and usage.

Besides, check your machine’s manual for specific instructions². Some sewing machines may need oiling often. Clean the excess oil and operate the sewing machine for a few minutes.

6. Oil It If It Hasn’t Been in Use for a While

An old sewing machine, or one that hasn’t been in use for a long time needs thorough cleaning and oil to run again. The old oil is dry, and it has a lot of debris.

First, inspect the sewing machine thoroughly for signs of wear and tear or damage. Some issues you may find include loose screws, broken parts, or dust and debris buildup. Fix them before oiling.

7. Clean Off Excess Oil

If there’s an oil spill or excess oil on your sewing machine, wipe it off gently using a paper towel or a small cloth. Ensure to get into all the corners and crannies to remove excess oil accumulation.

If left on the machine, the excess oil accumulates in the sewing machine, attracting lint and dust.

After wiping it, test your sewing machine on scrap fabric before starting to sew. This way, you’ll ensure no excess oil drips and stains or damages the clothes you’re sewing.

8. Run the Sewing Machine for a Few Stitches to Distribute the Oil Evenly

Once you are done oiling every part of your sewing machine, operate it for some time for the oil to spread evenly to every part of your sewing machine. This way, all moving parts receive the necessary lubrication.

This simple step keeps your sewing machine in excellent working condition. It also prevents costly repairs down the line.

9. Oil Your Sewing Machine Before Storage

If you want to store your sewing machine for some time, oil it first to prevent rusting.

Whether you’re storing or using your sewing machine, when you oil it well the metal parts are preserved; they won’t become brittle or rust over time. Ensure you apply high-quality sewing machine oil if you want to store your machine for some time.

10. Oil Your Machine Whenever It Squeaks

The best solution if your sewing machine squeaks is oil. A well-lubricated sewing machine operates quietly. The sound means that the machine is struggling to work due to friction. So, act fast before it leads to a much bigger problem.

11. Use the Right Tools to Oil Your Machine

Oiling a sewing machine is easy for any DIYer given the right tools. These tools include sewing machine oil, an oiler or oil brush, a clean, lint-free cloth, a screwdriver, and the instructions manual.

Use the sewing machine oil designed specifically for sewing machines. The thickness of other oil types can damage your sewing machine. Most sewing machines come with an oil brush, which you’ll use to get to those hard-to-reach areas. The clean, lint-free cloth is for cleaning debris or excess oil.

You will need the screwdriver to remove the covers in your sewing machine to access some hidden areas that need oiling. The instructions manual will give the step-by-step process of oiling your sewing machine.

12. Don’t Clean Your Sewing Machine Using an Air Blower

Using an air blower to clean your sewing machine can damage some components. The air blower may seem like a fast and easy solution, but it is too powerful for the machine; it can do more harm than good.

It will drive dust and debris deeper into the sewing machine, causing debris accumulation that can damage delicate machine components.

Rather than using an air blower, use a soft brush or lint-free cloth to wipe the sewing machine. Use a small soft-bristled brush to get rid of dirt or debris in hard-to-reach areas of your sewing machine.

Conclusion

Oiling your sewing machine is a crucial aspect of maintenance that should never be overlooked. You can oil your sewing machine fast and efficiently with these 12 easy tips outlined here to ensure it runs smoothly and lasts for years.

Don’t forget to use the correct oil for your sewing machine. Also, adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure you oil your sewing machine often to prevent damage or wear and tear.

By taking care of your sewing machine, you can enjoy seamless sewing experiences, creating beautiful projects easily.

• Related Read: HOW TO SAFELY DISPOSE OF LAMP OIL

Featured Image Credit: true nature, Shutterstock

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These projects aren’t hard, either. Therefore, even a beginner can make a working roman shade without much effort. Even if you’ve never made a DIY project before, this is a great place to start.

We’ll look at a few of the best DIY plans for roman shades. Many of them are similar (they all make the same thing, after all). However, there are some slight differences between them.

The 12 DIY Roman Shades

1. Simple Roman Shade

This plan allows you to create a very similar roman shade out of whatever fabric you want. Therefore, you can customize it to fit your space. You can make the shade longer or shorter as necessary for your space. You’ll start by measuring your window and figuring out the exact number of dowels and fabric you’ll need. It may differ depending on the size of the window.

The instructions are very simple, and the plan includes pictures for each step. Therefore, the instructions are extremely easy to figure out. Even if you’ve never done a DIY plan before, this one is a great place to start.

2. Blind Roman Shade

Using this plan, you can turn your average shades into roman shades. You can use any upholstery material that you want to use, allowing you to personalize this shade to your needs. Therefore, this plan is great for those that want to personalize their roman shade to their existing room. The important part is that the upholstery is midweight, allowing it to be light enough for the shade.

The instructions are very straightforward and easy to use. Even if you’ve never done a DIY plan before, you can easily use this plan to personalize your interior a little bit.

3. Sewable Roman Shade

If you know how to sew, then we highly recommend this sewing roman shade plan. It’s pretty simple to follow, but it does require some previous knowledge about sewing. Therefore, we only recommend it to those with some sewing experience. Otherwise, it can be challenging to accomplish.

Like most plans, you can adjust the material utilized to match your needs. As long as the fabric is light enough, you shouldn’t have a problem using it for your roman shade.

You do need to adjust the plan to match the size of your window. If you have previous experience sewing, this shouldn’t be a problem, though.

4. Folding Roman Shade

This plan adds a few extra ruffles towards the bottom of the curtain, making it look extra-fancy. However, this does add a bit of work to the overall plan. Still, if you like the look of all the extra ruffles, then you’ll like this plan. We found the instructions very easy to follow, though you will need some sewing skills before you dive in.

5. Faux Relaxed Roman Shade

The plan illustrates some of the different kinds of roman shades and walks you through how to create a relaxed roman shade. The instructions aren’t the best, though. There aren’t any numbered steps, though the pictures do provide some context.

6. Quick Roman Shade

If you’re looking for the easiest roman shade project, then we highly recommend this one. It requires very few supplies and less than an hour. Overall, it is the easiest roman shade to make, but it does leave a pretty big impact. You can use whatever fabric you want to match your home décor.

7. Straightforward Roman Shade

This straightforward roman shade is made very similarly to the other options on this list. However, it utilizes Velcro and some other materials that aren’t commonly utilized. You will need to sew to create the dowel pockets. You can use whatever fabric you want that matches your home’s style. This plan doesn’t specify any particular fabric, though it does help if it is on the nicer side.

8. Faux Roman Blinds

These blinds aren’t technically real. However, they’re great if you just want the look of roman blinds—even if they aren’t useable. You can use them to spruce up just about any window. You can adjust the fabric to fit your needs. This is shade is pretty straightforward, as well. It requires fewer parts, as it doesn’t actually work.

9. Reversible Roman Blinds

Reversible roman blinds are a bit different from everything else on this list. This plan was made with the intention of being easy for beginner sewers. Therefore, it does help to have a little bit of a sewing background. However, even if you don’t, you can utilize this plan. Plus, it leaves you with a completely reversible shade, though it isn’t completely useable.

10. Living Room Roman Shades

These roman shades are easy to sew according to the directions. However, they don’t have a liner. Therefore, you’ll have to avoid using them in a bedroom if you want them to block all the light. They work great for those looking for an aesthetic curtain that can be utilized for a little privacy.

11. Stripped Roman Shades

If you’re looking for something a bit different, consider these stripped roman shades. You’ll use regular fabric and ribbon to make an interesting curtain for you to use. You won’t need to sew, making this plan much easier than others. You’ll need to use a blind to create the roman shades, and you’ll need to take the blinds apart.

12. Simple Roman Shades

For those looking for a fairly easy roman shade plan, we recommend this one. It’s much simpler than other options out there, though it does require some previous sewing experience. If you’ve sewed before, then this plan may be a great option for you.

Conclusion

There are many different DIY plans for roman shades. Most roman shade plans require sewing, as you’ll need to make pockets for the dowels. However, some plans don’t require sewing and instead use iron-on hem tape. It all depends on how the plan is designed.

Either way, there are tons of different options to choose from. All can be customized by choosing the fabric that works best for you. However, some are more easily customized for your window size than others. If you have strangely-shaped windows, you’ll want a plan that can be adjusted.

Featured Image Credit: kunmom, Shutterstock

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The other standout property is its ability to not stick to anything nearby—or the things that it comes into contact with—other than itself. These two properties make it the ideal malleable material for kids looking to mold differently shaped objects, and STEM students trying to design miniature models of various items.

To understand what kinetic sand really is, we have to talk about the science behind it. So, read on below to find out more.

How Does Kinetic Sand Work?

Layman’s Explanation

Even though it doesn’t have the same appearance or texture as traditional sand, kinetic sand is actually sand. The only difference is that instead of being coated using water to make it wet, it uses silicone oil.

As most of you probably know, silicon oil is a versatile product. Besides being used as a lubricant, it can also be utilized as a heat transfer oil or hydraulic fluid. Kinetic sand is always wet due to silicon oil. Had they used water instead of oil, it would have dried out in a matter of seconds.

The oil is also the reason why, when left alone, this sand reverts to a more natural shape. For example, if you made a ball, and left the ball on a flat surface for an extended period of time, you’ll come back to find it flattened out—even if no form of force was exerted on it.

Scientific Explanation

From a scientific standpoint, kinetic sand is primarily sand, with 2% of its composition being polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The PDMS compound is quite honestly what gives this material that wet appearance, and also helps it to stay bonded to itself.

PDMS is essentially a liquid polymerized siloxane compound that’s usually classified as a variant of silicone oil. When broken down into simpler blocks, you get to learn that PDMS is basically a mineral-organic polymer.

By definition, a polymer is any synthetic or natural substance that’s made up of macromolecules—and the macromolecules can still be broken down further into monomers. In our case, PDMS is the polymer, while carbon and silicon are the monomers.

Typical of silicone oil, PDMS doesn’t catch fire easily, is not poisonous, and is considered chemically stable. In addition, it’s usually optically clear and exudes viscoelasticity. We like to use the term “viscoelastic” to describe any material or substance that acts like a viscous liquid when the temperature levels are ramped up and appears to have the elasticity of rubber when the temperatures drop.

Why is kinetic sand hydrophobic?

That’s the effect of the PDMS. The oil’s molecules are naturally nonpolar, thus repelled by the water molecules’ polarity. Any surface that’s covered with PDMS automatically becomes “water-fearing”. This property is also the answer to why kinetic sand doesn’t stick to anything in its vicinity, even if they come into contact.

Where Is Kinetic Sand Used?

Toys

Kinetic sand is mostly used as a toddler’s toy. We’re often advised to encourage our young ones to mold as often as possible because this practice helps them develop fine motor skills. While playing with sand, molding it into different shapes, the muscles in their hands gradually develop. Thus, making it easier for them to comfortably hold things like pencils in the future or use scissors.

The process of flattening, rolling, and squishing this type of sand also produces a calming effect that kids use as an avenue to release excess energy or reduce stress. Encouraging creativity is another benefit that we can’t discount, seeing as creating different objects often allows toddlers to stretch their imaginations.

What’s more, manipulating the material to fit a certain idea makes us believe that kinetic sand is again instrumental in helping kids improve their hand-eye coordination.

Sand Tray Therapy

In psychology, we have various counseling techniques that are thought to be more expressive in nature. And sand tray therapy—sometimes referred to as “sand play”—happens to be one of them.

This psychological approach employs the utilization of miniatures or figurines in various aspects, to help patients effectively express whatever they are feeling or how they view the world. They are usually asked by a therapist or psychologist to create scenes in a sand tray that would accurately describe their emotions, hardships, and thoughts, at the present moment and in the past.

For this technique to work, it has to be applied in a clinical setting. And although it can be useful in a group setting, it won’t be as effective as it would have been on a one-on-one basis. Also, sand tray therapy applies to people of all ages.

In the past, this therapy majorly relied on traditional sand, water, and a few other tools that would make the molding process easier for the patient.

ASMR

The soothing effects of kinetic sand have made it popular among adults who like to trigger the Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response. Commonly known as ASMR, this response is exhibited in the form of a tingling sensation that can be felt around the shoulder, neck, or scalp. According to various findings, more often than not, it’s triggered by gentle taps or whispers. But it recently came to our attention that kinetic sand can be manipulated to generate a similar effect.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can You Make Kinetic Sand at Home?

Yes, if you’re desperately yearning for that sensory play, you can easily make a DIY kinetic sand at home. All you’ll need is sand, cornstarch, and oil, which are to be mixed in a ratio of 5:3:1, respectively. Any sand variety can get the job done, but we like working with colored decorator sands for a more fun experience.

Flour can be used as a substitute for cornstarch, but the end product will slightly vary. That’s usually the case because the latter ingredient is so silky. If you can’t find silicone oil, use mineral oil, baby oil, or cooking oil.

How Do You Clean Up Kinetic Sand?

You can use a vacuum to get rid of the tiny particles left behind, but the easiest way to get rid of them is to mold a ball and then use it to collect them all. When you dab the ball on the remnants, even if they are on a carpet, they’ll stick to it without showing any form of resistance. With kinetic sand, you don’t have to use water or a cleaning solution—unless you want to.

What’s The Best Way to Dispose of Kinetic Sand?

Do not make the mistake of trying to flush it down the toilet or drain. Kinetic sand is a reusable product, but if you don’t have any use for it, take it to the trash. The garbage collectors will know how to safely dispose of it.

Conclusion

Kinetic sand is still considered a relatively new invention. We honestly don’t know when exactly it was invented, but Spin Master Ltd is considered the brains behind it. They trademarked it as a kid’s toy in January 2014, promising to bring that beach-like sand experience to our homes.

Besides helping toddlers improve their motor skills, it’s also instrumental in helping adults express their inner thoughts and feelings in therapy—and to trigger ASMR.

Featured Image Credit: Elena Khairullina, Shutterstock

The post What Is Kinetic Sand? How It Works and Where It’s Used appeared first on House Grail.

Here is everything you need to know about Snapware’s microwave effectiveness and some helpful microwave safety tips for the kitchen.

What Is Snapware?

Snapware is a company that makes innovative food storage systems. It is popularly sold online on Amazon as well as in stores such as Costco. They sell their items in large packs that are designed to fill your entire food storage needs in one purchase. Snapware is a name brand that is sometimes applied to food storage in general, but only the Snapware brand makes actual Snapware. Snapware also uses Pyrex components, such as glass, in its products.

Can You Microwave Snapware?

Yes. Snapware can safely be microwaved. Both glass Snapware and plastic Snapware are certified microwave safe by Snapware itself. That means you can pop any Snapware products in the microwave at any time. Snapware is completely safe to microwave. It does not get too hot, and it does not leech dangerous chemicals into your food.

Like any microwavable product, you should keep an eye on the integrity of your Snapware before microwaving it. Do not microwave cracked glass, broken pieces, or melted plastic. If your Snapware has received any damage from usage over time, you should avoid microwaving it.

Snapware is also dishwasher safe, refrigerator safe, and freezer safe. It can be effectively used throughout your kitchen with very little to worry about.

Can You Microwave Snapware Lids?

Yes. Snapware lids are designed to be microwavable. Snapware recommends detaching the lid and cocking it to the side when it is in the microwave. It is not advised to microwave Snapware that is completely locked and closed up. Detaching the lid allows the air inside your storage container to vent. Hot air expands and rises. If you do not pop the lid before microwaving, the expanding air could damage your product, especially plastic containers.

Official Tips for Microwaving Snapware

If you are curious about the microwave characteristics of Snapware, they provide a robust list of official tips for using their products. Snapware has put together a comprehensive care guide that lays out exactly how to use its products for the best results.

Verdict

Snapware is microwave safe. Both the plastic and glass containers are able to be microwaved without any issues. Even the lids are microwave safe, so you can put the entire container into the microwave at any given time. The only thing that we found that cannot be microwaved from Snapware is the ice pack. You should also avoid microwaving any broken or damaged Snapware containers. Snapware is specifically designed to be microwave safe.

Featured Image Credit: Okrasiuk, Shutterstock

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So, how do you avoid that? We’ve got you covered! Keep reading to learn how to differentiate between microwave-friendly and unsafe materials!

The 10 Methods to Tell if Something Is Microwave Safe

1. Look for Microwave-Friendly Labels

If you’re not sure whether a cup, mug or plate can go into the microwave or not, look for a tag that says so. The food industry in the US is regulated by the FDA, and it requires local manufacturers to add labels to their dishes and containers. This system allows the customers to quickly compare different products and pick the ones that suit them best.

These tags are self-explanatory and easy to find. The list includes “food-safe”, “dishwasher-safe”, “freezer-safe”, and “microwave-safe”. So, if your favorite food container, bowl, or tumbler has a “microwave-friendly” label, that means you can use it. Sometimes, it can be a symbol (like three horizontal wavy lines).

2. Only Use Ceramic and Glass Dishes

Ceramic dinnerware has one big advantage: it easily handles extreme heat. You can leave it in the oven for a very long time and never worry about it deforming, melting, or causing damage to the microwave. We’re talking about stoneware, porcelain, and China. The same goes for dishes made of glass. These materials are quite durable, too, and can last for ages.

Do keep in mind that tableware crafted from clay is weak against thermal shock. This won’t be an issue in the cooking cavity, but if you cook something on a stove, fire pit, or fireplace, the bowl/mug will crack or break. That’s because, by nature, pottery pieces are brittle, despite their durability and longevity.

3. Avoid Glazed Dinnerware

The ceramic glaze has been used in pottery for centuries for aesthetic and practical reasons. When applied, the glassy coating blocks the pores, making the dish waterproof. As a bonus, the exterior becomes tougher and more durable. On the downside, lead-glazed earthenware is a potential health hazard. If the glaze wasn’t applied properly, the lead may leach into your wood even when not heated.

The side effects can be quite severe, especially for children. The good news is—you can always test the ceramics to know for sure. The FDA recommends using lead-testing kits. All you have to do is rub the swab against the dish. If it changes color, stop using that dinnerware for cooking, reheating, or eating food. Here are the most dangerous ceramic types that you should avoid:

4. Learn About Different Plastic Types

In contrast to popular belief, not all plastics are dangerous. Some plastic products are specifically designed to be microwave-friendly. As always, before you pay for a container, check the bottom. If it has a microwave symbol that says it’s safe to use, go for it. Overall, there are seven types of plastic, and they all have unique properties and uses:

5. Check the Company/Brand

Not ready to memorize all the different plastic types? That’s okay! You can pick your dinnerware from a trusted brand. For example, plastic Tervis tumblers are mostly microwave-safe. You can heat your favorite drinks in these insulated cups/mugs and never worry about melting or contamination. Pyrex and Duralex are known for their microwave-friendly cookware lineups.

These products are equally resistant to heat and cold. Plus, you can put them in the dishwasher. Visions is another brand that easily withstands the heat generated by an oven or a stove. Premium-quality containers do cost a bit extra, but they compensate for that with a flexible design and extended lifespan.

6. Ask the Manufacturer Directly

If you’re shopping online and come across a container that you like, don’t hesitate to ask about it in the comments. An official representative will hit you back shortly. They’ll answer your question even if you do this on a third-party retailer’s website (but it might take more time). The FDA is very strict about labels and symbols. So, if someone from the company claims their dishware/container is microwave-safe, you can trust them.

7. If It’s Paper, Go With Wax or Parchment

What’s the first thought that pops into your head when asked about paper? Flammable! This is true for most paper products, but white, parchment, paperboard, and wax paper are actually microwave-safe. As long as there are no logos/writings on the container or package, you can use it to heat some food. Don’t keep the paper in there for too long, though. Now, what you should avoid is brown paper.

It’s one of the least heat-resistant materials. When left in the cavity for a long time, it might put the appliance on fire. And the fact that these bags are often coated in aluminum makes them an even worse pick. Furthermore, brown paper is known to leach chemicals into food or drinks when exposed to heat. Don’t risk it!

8. Don’t Microwave Anything Metallic

Stainless steel and aluminum are practically immune to rust or corrosion, easily withstand temperature extremes, and last forever. You can use metal dishes to eat food but not heat/reheat it. Unlike plastic, paper, ceramics, or glass, metal doesn’t absorb radiation. Instead, it reflects it. This means two things. First, the food won’t be cooked properly.

Secondly, all those bouncing microwaves create chaos in the cooking cavity, damaging the kitchen appliance beyond repairs. In the worst-case scenario, it will go up in flames! To avoid that, never use any old-school, metallic dishes, aluminum foil, or any containers/dishes that have metallic parts. This includes cups with metal handles, decorative trims, and ceramics with glaze.

9. Cold-Food Containers Are NOT Safe

To avoid trouble, make a rule of never using containers intended for cold storage use. Yes, it would’ve been great if you could just grab these containers from the fridge and throw them directly into the microwave. However, that will only make them deform and melt, ruining the meal and (potentially) damaging the microwave. We’re talking about the margarine, yogurt, and cottage cheese containers.

10. Do a Quick Water Test

If you don’t want to navigate through different sorts of plastic, ceramics, or paper, there’s a tried-and-true test that you can use. It’s always better to know in advance which plates and mugs in your kitchen are safe to use in a microwave and which aren’t instead of having to learn that the hard way. Here’s how you do it:

FAQ’s About How to Tell if Something Is Microwave Safe

How Does the FDA Evaluate Products?

The Food & Drug Administration is a United States government agency. Its main job is to evaluate drugs, cosmetics products, and, of course, food before it ever makes it into the market. The FDA has an entire division with toxicologists, chemists, and other highly qualified specialists working 24/7 to make our lives safer.

One of the main focuses of the FDA is the chemical elements used in everyday packaging products, containers, and bags. First, they test their impact on animals and only then move to “human trials”. This organization has the authority to ban any product with even the slightest chance of being a health hazard to American consumers.

Does the FDA Categorize BPA and Phthalates As Dangerous?

Bisphenol A, commonly known as BPA, is a chemical compound found in polycarbonate plastic containers. And according to the FDA, BPA can leach into our food. However, since we’re exposed to small amounts of this hazardous chemical, plates, bowls, mugs, and cups crafted from PC plastic are safe to use. That still doesn’t mean you can put them into a microwave, though.

And what about phthalates—do they pose a health risk? The term “phthalates” describes a group of chemicals used in the production of various plastic products. Exposure to high levels can, indeed, be dangerous. However, the FDA claims that if you only use these plastics to store and eat food, you won’t be poisoned. Just like with BPA, as long as you don’t heat the containers, you’re good!

What About Styrene: Is It a Health Hazard?

Styrene is a colorless liquid that is often used in the manufacturing of rubber and plastic products. Polystyrene, Styrofoam, and other plastics contain high levels of styrene. But, after putting it through countless tests, the FDA has decided not to ban styrene. Thus, any container or package that’s rich in this chemical is officially safe to use for storing food.

The reason: evaluations have proven that when using so-called “food contact products” made of PS plastic, we’re exposed to extremely low levels of styrene. We’re talking about 10K times less styrene consumed compared to FDA’s daily limit. So, as you’ve probably already guessed, while ovens, stoves, and microwaves are not recommended, PS containers are perfectly safe for storage.

Conclusion

In the States, over 90% of households have a microwave. They’re cheap and very easy to use. All you need to do is put some vegetables, noodles, or meat into the cooking cavity, set the timer/temperature, and the device will do the rest. However, before you do any cooking or reheating, you need to make sure you’re using the right container.

Strangely enough, a huge number of plates, bowls, and food containers that we frequently put in the microwave are NOT safe to use. On the bright side, there are lots of materials on the market that are 100% microwave-friendly. As long as you know how to find the right containers, you’ll be able to enjoy your food and stay healthy!

Featured Image Credit: Andrea Davis, Unsplash

The post How to Tell if Something Is Microwave Safe – 10 Main Ways appeared first on House Grail.

However, certain glazes and paints don’t mix well with electromagnetic radiation produced by the microwave. And if there’s a crack in the dish, that can lead to poisoning. So, before you put any stoneware into the cooking cavity, look for a stamp on the bottom of the plate, cup, or mug that says “Microwave-Friendly”.

Read on to learn more about ceramics and how to use them properly!

What Is Stoneware? The Definition

This collective term describes many ceramics crafted from stoneware clay. Fired at above-average temps, stoneware is durable, non-porous, and long-lasting. It has a sandy texture and will chip before breaking. More importantly, it doesn’t melt when exposed to heat. Stoneware is perfect for dinnerware, and humanity has been using it for ages!

Can You Put Stoneware in the Microwave?

For stoneware, heat is never a problem because the clay is fired at extreme temps. So, you won’t have to keep a ceramic bowl or mug in the microwave for short periods so that it doesn’t crack or melt. High tolerance to heat is the main reason stoneware is slowly yet steadily replacing plastic dinnerware in the oven. It doesn’t break down or deform.

But we still encourage you to check the bottom of the stoneware to make sure it is, indeed, allowed in the cooking cavity. If the tag says it’s microwave-safe, you’re in the clear. Or it can be a tiny symbol with waves on it. Tags and symbols are also used to indicate that the ceramics can be put in a dishwasher or fridge.

Leaching Chemicals: What You Need to Know

Clay is a harmless material. However, stoneware is often glazed to give it a new color, ornament it, or make the body more resistant to natural elements. Without glazing, certain ceramics won’t be resistant to high moisture levels. The downside to this is that when the plates or cups are heated in the microwave for a long time, the high temps might make the glazing (and the lead that it contains) melt.

As a result, dangerous chemicals could leach into your food (or be released into the atmosphere if you’re cooking food on a stove). While lead poisoning happens rarely, there have already been documented cases that involved the use of stoneware. That’s why it’s so important to check the label on the tableware before you use it. That will only take a second!

Also, you can avoid potential hazards by never using these dishes:

Lead Poisoning: Common Symptoms

One of the worst things about lead poisoning is that you can’t really taste or smell it. You’ll only realize that you’re in trouble when the symptoms start kicking in. Please, don’t take lead poisoning lightly because long-term exposure can result in catastrophic consequences like brain damage and even death. Here’s a quick look at the most prevalent side effects:

Avoid ceramics with glaze/lead, metallic finishing, and paint to protect yourself and your loved ones from poisoning.

Should You Go With Plastic Instead?

No, plastic isn’t a better pick compared to stoneware. Polymers have poor resistance to heat, which means your favorite plate will quite literally melt. Furthermore, if the plastic is rich in BPA, you might get poisoned. So, just like with stoneware, don’t forget to check the label. If you see a “microwave-safe” tag, then there’s nothing to worry about. That’s right: not ALL plastics are bad; some can be put in a microwave.

Is Stoneware Recyclable?

Technically, clay and stone products are biodegradable, but they take hundreds of years to break down. More than that, most recycling facilities can’t use them. To melt down a ceramic cookware set, you’ll have to expose it to extreme temperatures, which goes beyond the capabilities of the average recycling facility in the States or Canada (unless they’re designed to crush bricks). So, does that mean ceramics are not eco-friendly?

Well, not quite. If you put them in a landfill, clay mugs or plates will take a very long time to break down. On the bright side, they won’t hurt the environment unless the stoneware includes traces of lead. But, again, the impact on Mother Nature will be minimal. How do you dispose of ceramics, then? Donate them to a local charity or take them to a commercial recycling facility.

How Long Does It Last?

Ceramic materials last for thousands of years. Stoneware is brittle and will, most likely, crack if you accidentally drop it. But, if you take proper care of it, all the plates, cups, and whatnot will last for many generations. Durability: that’s the biggest appeal here. Ceramics are practically immune to high temperatures and can handle tough weather conditions.

That said, sudden spikes or drops in temperature will damage stoneware. When exposed to thermal shocks, even the toughest ceramics might break. Or, at the very least, they’ll develop cracks. A great example of this is when you put a pot on a stovetop. The difference in temps will make it crack. Also, if you just grabbed it from the fridge, give the dish 20–30 minutes to “recover” before it goes into the microwave.

Is Stoneware Dishwasher-Safe?

Stoneware is highly resistant to heat and can also handle average humidity levels. Still, leaving your ceramic mugs or dishes in the dishwasher for a long time is not recommended unless they are glazed. Also, if the stoneware is important to you (maybe it was passed down to you by your grandparents), it would be best to use hand washing instead.

Soapy water and a nylon brush will make cleaning it a breeze. And one more thing: avoid using commercial cleaners that are based on citrus juices. They might have a negative effect on the exterior. This is especially true for earthenware dishes (glazed and fired). If you’re the proud owner of mid-fire or high-fire ceramics, that won’t be a problem.

Conclusion

Stoneware has been around for ages, helping our ancestors build walls, enjoy food, and craft decorative pieces. Today, ceramics products are just as popular, mainly because of their durability, longevity, and aesthetically pleasing nature. On top of that, most plates, bowls, and cups crafted from clay are equally safe to put in a refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave, and oven.

Still, you need to check the label first. If the stoneware doesn’t have a tag on it that says it’s microwave-friendly, you shouldn’t test your luck. If you do, that might make the ceramic crack, break, and even leach lead into your meal. Other than that, your favorite ceramic dish should be safe to freeze, reheat, defrost, reheat, and cook in!

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