Isn’t it great when a few simple steps can help making caring for your home and family easier? Check back for more household hints:
Oven Spills
To avoid oven spills, place a cookie sheet or large foil pan on the lower shelf when cooking anything that might drip or run over. It will catch any drips or spills before they reach the bottom of the oven. For even greater convenience, cover the drip pan with foil, and simply throw it away when done, or spray the pan with cooking spray.
To avoid smoke and odor from spills that have already occurred, quickly pour a bit of table salt directly onto the spill. The salt granules will help soak it up.
Keep Foods and Spices Fresher
Add a few popcorn kernels to your saltshaker to absorb moisture and keep salt flowing freely. Keep spices out of sunlight and move your spice rack if it is close to your stove. Yes, it’s handy to have spices at arm’s reach, but heat reduces their taste and freshness.
Purchase a grinder, such as a pepper grinder or coffee grinder and grind your own peppercorns (and other whole beans such as vanilla beans and coffee beans) for fresher, more robust flavors.
Do not store potatoes in a plastic bag. Place them in a cloth or paper bag, and tuck in one apple per every five pounds of potatoes.
Instant Air Freshener
When you peel an orange, lemon, lime, or grapefruit, keep the peels in a bowl and let them freshen up your kitchen for the next day or two. Add a few cloves if desired.
Storing Medicine
Medicine should be stored in a cool, dry place, but it is also important to keep them out of reach of children. If your curious little ones can figure out even the most sophisticated child proofing tools, store medicine in a locked metal box and hide the key.