Cleaning is a mammoth task, especially in the kitchen area, which gets pretty messy while preparing different cuisines during the day. While people try several cleaning hacks to make the job easy and quick, the results rarely meet their expectations and instead do more harm than good. With that in mind, we have listed some of the most popular kitchen cleaning hacks that don’t work, along with alternatives worth trying. Using the oven’s self-cleaning feature Although modern ovens have a self-cleaning feature, using it makes things worse. In most cases, the appliance heats up and releases harmful gases, leading to indoor air pollution. If you still wish to use this trick, turn on the exhaust fan in the room, start the oven’s self-cleaning feature, and leave it untouched for a few hours. Then open the windows and air out the room to eliminate the toxic gases and their accompanying odor. Using bleach to clean the counters Another cleaning hack that doesn’t work involves using bleach on the kitchen countertops. It’s common for stains to remain on the surface after handling poultry, fish, and raw meat. However, using bleach to eliminate them can emit volatile compounds that may trigger headaches, asthma, allergies, and other respiratory issues. Experts suggest working with a cleaning solution containing 3% hydrogen peroxide as an alternative. It can remove stubborn stains and disinfect the counters to avoid germs and bacteria. Rubbing the stovetop with car wax Some claim that applying a thin layer of car wax on the stovetop can make grease splatters easier to clean. However, car wax is incredibly combustible and must never be used near a fire. Instead, scrub the area with a good old cooktop cleaner. Putting lemon wedges in the dishwasher for cleaner dishes This kitchen cleaning hack can keep your dishes smelling fresh but won’t make them clean.

All homes require water as long as it flows through pipes and the drainage system. However, if there are hidden water leaks, they might result in severe damage if not repaired on time. While obvious signs such as water stains make it easy to spot the leak, it is sometimes insidious, making it challenging to find and fix. Here are 4 ways to find hidden water leaks and take remedial action in time. Check the water bill Most households get a water bill that is fairly consistent every month. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a household of four persons will generally use 12,000 gallons per month. Exceptions are warmer weather or when lawns and gardens have to be watered regularly. However, if the water bill suddenly becomes unusually high, it may be a sign of water leakage. Even a small leak, like a faucet dripping steadily, can cause about 10,000 gallons of water to be wasted per year. Thus, monitoring the water bill is a useful practice to keep a check on water leaks. Conduct a water meter test Another effective way to find hidden water leaks is a water meter test. To do this, turn off all the faucets, showers, and water sources around the house. Once this is done, check the readings in the water meter. If there is a water leak, the meter will keep on running. The change in readings may not be obvious immediately, especially if it is a slow-running leak. So, it is recommended to check the meter after a couple of hours. Look for patches of greener grass For homes with lawns and yards, checking for grass patches that are greener than the rest is a helpful hack to look for hidden leaks. If a part of the lawn is more lush and green than the rest, it may be because of leakage in one of the buried water lines.

One of the more popular choices to power electronics at home amongst consumers is lithium-ion batteries. This is because of the large amount of power they can use at a given size and weight. But occasionally, we hear about such batteries failing and bursting into flames. The phenomenon can result in mild or severe damage in its surroundings. This article discusses five top reasons why some lithium-ion batteries may malfunction. Read on to learn more. Manufacturing defect The functionality of a battery is based on the quality of its manufacturing process. Any flaws during production may lead to impure metallic particles seeping into the unit during assembly. Thinning of separators while manufacturing may also have adverse effects on the health of the battery. So manufacturers must ensure each cell is made in controlled cleanrooms and conduct quality-control tests and validation before being sold. Design flaw While the manufacturing process of a battery might be carried out without hiccups, a flaw in the design might ruin the entire batch. A poor design can cause damage to the electrodes or separate them and lead to a short circuit. Therefore, those designing batteries should check the design multiple times before manufacturing the lithium-ion battery. Usage with incompatible devices Each battery is designed to serve a specific purpose. So one cannot use a bigger battery in a device that only supports a smaller version and expect it to function. Moreover, using incorrect devices in appliances, vehicles, or other devices may also lead to short circuits and fires. Penetrating the battery pack Most battery manufacturers print a set of safety guidelines on a battery that each individual must follow. And though one of the guidelines may include not penetrating the battery pack, some individuals still do it. This can result in short circuits and fires that can cause widespread damage.

This year, Cyber Monday falls on 27 November 2023. Brands and retailers are gearing up to offer massive discounts to customers across categories like fashion, home appliances, travel, furniture, tech, lifestyle, and more. Reflecting on last year’s sales is a great place to start when working on getting shopping lists and budgets. Based on last year’s deals, here are 50 Cyber Monday sales one can look forward to in 2023: Technology: LG C2 42” OLED 4K TV: This LG device was marked down to $999 at Best Buy, down from its original price of $1299. One of the top-ranked televisions in 2022, the LG C2 has a stunning OLED display, an a9 Gen5 AI Processor, Dolby Atmos, and Voice Control. 10.2” iPad (64GB/2021): The iPad features Apple’s A13 Bionic CPU, a 12 MP front camera, and 64 GB of storage. Buyers can expect it to be marked down to $299 at some retailers, down from its original price of $329. TCL 65” 4K QLED TV: This TCL television packs the most value for its price. Originally $599, it is expected to sell for $549 on Cyber Monday 2023. It offers excellent performance and is compatible with various other devices. Google Pixel 6a: AT&T offered the lowest phone price ever last year – the Pixel 6a for $1 monthly. They may follow suit and offer similar discounts this year as well. Oculus Quest 2 (128 GB) Cyber Monday Bundle: An easy-to-use device packed with quality features, the Oculus Quest 2 retails for $469.99. However, shoppers may find deals as low as $349.99 this holiday season. MacBook Pro 13” (M2/256GB): Originally $1299, the MacBook Pro is expected to be marked down to $1149 during Cyber Monday sales this year. This Apple laptop features a 13.3-inch Retina display, Apple’s new M2 CPU w/ 10 Core GPU, 8GB RAM, and 256GB SSD.

The air in our homes is not perpetually clean. There are many chemicals, harmful gases, dust, and other airborne allergens that degrade the air quality in your home. These pollutants often stem from external factors and even the appliances you use at home. Furthermore, such pollutants can deteriorate health and trigger several health problems when inhaled. Therefore, here are 11 ways to keep the indoor air quality in your home clean. Open the windows Opening the window will let oxygen in and remove any harmful toxins in the air. It can even help keep the room breezy in the summers. Do not use aerosol sprays Aerosol sprays release harmful chemicals into the air. So you must use non-aerosol versions when it comes to hair sprays, furniture polish, and deodorants. Mop hard floor surfaces Mopping surfaces made from hardwood, vinyl floors, tile, or other toughened materials with a disinfectant will keep your home free of allergens. Inspect the air vents HVAC systems filter out harmful substances from the air to keep the atmosphere inside your room clean. Clean such air vents periodically to ensure they are working properly. Use exhausts Moisture in your home can lead to mildew, bugs, bacteria, and mold. Use the exhaust in the bathroom, kitchen, or use a dehumidifier. It will ensure moisture levels are kept in check. Vacuum the carpets Flooring, especially the ones with carpets and rugs, may collect disease-causing allergens. Vacuuming the carpets regularly can help keep the risk from such allergens at a minimum. Check the furniture Avoid furniture that is treated with formaldehyde and stuck with toxic glue. They contain harmful chemicals that can trigger several health conditions. Use zero-VOC paint Before painting your home, ensure the label reads “zero VOC” or “low COV.” These have a low content of harmful chemicals and leave the air quality of your home unaffected.

Proper laundry care is essential to maintain the quality and durability of clothes. To achieve this, it is crucial to adhere to a set of dos and don’ts when doing the laundry. These guidelines not only ensure effective cleaning but also help prevent common laundry mishaps. Following some basic rules and best practices can help transform the way laundry is done and help keep clothes looking as good as new. Dos Read the labels Always check the care labels on all clothing before washing. They provide essential information about the recommended water temperature, washing instructions, and drying methods. Sort the laundry Separate laundry into different piles based on colors and fabric types. Wash whites and light colors separately from darks to prevent color bleeding. Also, separate delicate items from heavier fabrics to avoid damage. Use the right detergent Using a gentle detergent for delicate fabrics and a regular one for everyday items is recommended. Moreover, following the amount specified on the detergent label is important. Follow water temperature guidelines Pay attention to the recommended water temperature on the care labels. Hot water can shrink or fade some fabrics, while cold water is gentler on clothes. When in doubt, use a cold wash. Clean the washing machine Clean the washing machine regularly to prevent mold, odors, and mildew. Running an empty cycle with hot water mixed with vinegar generally keeps it fresh and functioning well. Don’ts Don’t overload the machine Avoid overloading the washing machine, as this can lead to inefficient cleaning and excessive wear on the appliance. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for load size. Don’t mix colors Never wash white or light-colored clothes with dark or brightly colored items, as color bleeding can occur. Separate the laundry properly to preserve the vibrancy of clothes. Don’t use too much detergent Using excess detergent does not necessarily make clothes cleaner and can lead to soap residue buildup.

Buy now, pay later (BNPL) is a quick payment method that allows users to purchase products or services without paying for them in real-time. The lending BNPL-partnered company covers the cost at the time of purchase, and the user then repays the amount in installments to the company over the next few pre-determined months. While the BNPL scheme sounds like an ideal method of financing, it has its pitfalls. Making mistakes while dealing with it can quickly add up, costing more than initially anticipated, and spiral one into a financial pit. Here are some common mistakes to avoid: Not reading the terms and conditions The BNPL schemes have specific terms and conditions, and skipping the details before signing up can damage the pocket. For example, even though BNPL has no interest, one may incur late fees in case of missed or delayed payments, which can also affect one’s credit score. Therefore, it’s crucial to read the BNPL’s fine print thoroughly. Overusing BNPL schemes Using services like BNPL to make impulse purchases is always tempting since it comes with no upfront cost. This can often lead people to overextend their finances. To avoid this situation, one should utilize BNPL mindfully to make valuable and anticipated purchases like a work laptop or household appliances. It’s best to leave out impulsive buys like clothing or leisure gadgets or set a budget for them separately to manage finances better. Not knowing BNPL limitations Another issue is that people may look at the bright side and forget to adhere to the limitations of BNPL. For example, the plans do not offer purchase protection the way a credit card company might. Purchase protection is important when one makes an online payment, but the parcel doesn’t arrive. One should know how one’s BNPL company handles or retrieves the money in case of such issues.

Coupons are an excellent way to save money. They can help you save big on just about everything from food to appliances, clothing, and more, at various stores and restaurants around the country. If you’re thinking you can’t use them post-expiry, we have news for you! There are many tips and tricks to ensure you can make the most of your coupons even after their expiration. Don’t cut off or hide the expiration date Don’t hide the expiration date by crossing it or cutting it out, because stores are less likely to accept a coupon without an expiration date. Check if the coupon has a grace period Several manufacturers have a grace period of a few days on their coupons. Check the fine print or research the coupon online before throwing it out just because it has reached its expiration date. Check if the store has a grace period Many stores are relaxed about coupon expiration dates, and may be willing to accept it even a few days after. Stores such as Bed, Bath & Beyond, Michael’s, Staples, and Petsmart are well-known for this option. However, they are more likely to accept their own coupons over those from a manufacturer. Call the store in advance to find out whether they would be willing to accept any kind of expired coupons. Other stores and restaurants that also accept expired coupons for a few days include Arby’s, Bath and Body Works, Burger King, Buy Buy Baby, Culvers, CVS Pharmacy, Harris Teeters, and PetCo. Ask for a coupon exchange If the store is strict about using expired coupons, ask the cashier if they have any exchanges available. Deals are generally recycled throughout the week, and cashiers at some stores may be able to help you out with a valid coupon. Donate your coupons to overseas military families If you’ve tried all means at your disposal but are unable to get your coupons to work, you can consider donating them to military families.

Embarking on a home improvement project can be an exciting endeavor. These projects offer homeowners the chance to add value, functionality, and a touch of their personality to their living spaces. However, without proper planning and execution, these projects can rapidly go over budget. So, here are some common home improvement mistakes to avoid to ensure the remodeling journey is smooth, satisfying, and adds lasting value to one’s property. Underestimating the budget Homeowners often make the mistake of underestimating the total cost of their project before embarking on it. It’s essential to create a detailed budget, accounting for materials, labor, and any unexpected contingencies. One should allow for a buffer in one’s budget to tackle unforeseen challenges that may arise during the renovation process. Skipping research and planning Jumping into a home improvement project without proper research and planning can lead to inefficient use of resources and unsatisfactory results. One is advised to take the time to thoroughly research design ideas, materials, and potential contractors. One can plan out the entire project step by step, considering timelines, permits, and potential disruptions to one’s daily life during the renovation. Hiring the wrong contractors Selecting the right contractors is crucial to the success of one’s home improvement project. Avoid the mistake of hiring the first contractor one comes across or solely considering the lowest bid. One can take the time to interview multiple contractors, check references, and review past projects to ensure one is hiring a reputable, experienced, and licensed professional. Sacrificing quality for cost While it’s essential to stick to one’s budget, compromising on the quality of materials and workmanship is a mistake that can cost one in the long run. Inferior materials may wear out faster, requiring expensive repairs sooner than expected. One should thus invest in durable, high-quality materials and skilled labor to ensure one’s renovations stand the test of time.

As Black Friday, the biggest shopping day of the year is approaching yet again, it is best to keep your guard up. With exciting deals on appliances, gadgets, home decor, and apparel bombarded each day, you can get confused, and overwhelmed. Therefore, it is best to plan for the shopping season, so you don’t miss out on a good sale opportunity. Here are ten tricks to help you make the most of Black Friday. Set a budget If you wish to buy many items, try to save a little of your earnings every month. This will allow you to set a sufficient budget to meet your requirements. Make sure you stick to the budget. Overspending may lead to unnecessary debt. Get access to early-bird offers Several analysts have noticed that people who get access to early bird offers usually get the best deals. It is also seen that some products, once sold out, take time to arrive at the store for sale. Thus, it is always good to be prepared to hit the market at the right time. Check out products that are cheaper, closer to Christmas Do not believe the advertisements blindly; that is because not every Black Friday deal is the same, and some items are cheaper as Christmas and New Year approach. Several retailers offer bigger discounts on electronics, apparel, toys, and other items in the run-up to Christmas. Stick to trusted websites and known brands Do not shop on unknown websites just because they offer huge discounts on attractive products. You must be careful as these could be filled with hackers and scammers. You must always go to trusted websites or read the reviews on new ones that you just discovered. You should also make payments from a secured internet network that is personal and not public.

Now that the holiday season is finally upon us, it is time to gear up and make the best out of the thanksgiving deals, Black Friday deals, and Cyber Monday deals. These include shopping for self as well as for family and friends. Black Friday 2021 has some amazing deals lined up, and we are here to help you make the best of it. Listed below are some of the most gratifying deals we could find for you. But rest assured that there is more to come. Dell XPS 13 The Dell XPS 13, a 13.3-inch screen with 1080 Infinity Edge display, is a snag deal with the website selling it for just $636 during the Black Friday 2021 sale. While the deal is anticipated to continue for the Cyber Monday sale, there is no telling how many Intel Core i5 powered machines the company has on hand. Samsung Smart tech For certain users, the Samsung deals have opened early; however, they are suitable for even regular customers, including savings on smartphones, like Galaxy s21 and Fold 3 and Galaxy smartwatches. Depending on the amount spent, you can save anywhere up to $200 along with some freebies. Mint mobile In the deals from carriers category, Mint mobile is the winner from our standpoint. Among the amazing Black Friday deals, the company is offering a three-month subscription-free on the purchase of any three-month plan. This means you get a six-month subscription for the price of three months. Apple Watch 7 For people looking to get their hands on the brand new Apple Watch 7, head straight to AT&T. The connectivity partner will slash off $200 at your total purchase of two Apple 7 watches, and that’s the best deal we could find across platforms. iPhone 13 For people looking to buy the newer iPhone models for the bare minimum cost, AT&T has an offer at hand.

Planning to purchase a refrigerator? Look no further. Black Friday deals on refrigerators can help you save a lot of money. After all, refrigerators can be pricey. Their costs increase with their features. So, how do you decide which fridge to choose this holiday shopping season? Here’s a rundown of some of the top deals that were available last year, so you can expect the same or better deals this year on Black Friday . LG 26.2 cu. ft. French Door Refrigerator This is one of the top-selling fridge models in the market today. This is a Wi-Fi-enabled appliance that comes with a Dual Ice Maker so that you never run out of ice. This Black Friday, you might be able to save a massive $300 and get a price match guarantee. Samsung 27.8 cu. ft 4-Door Refrigerator This beautifully designed refrigerator has some of the best features. You get the Food Showcase Door that offers quick access to all your present items. It comes with French doors, a modern dispenser, and sleek handles. It also has an AutoFill Water Pitcher that automatically fills the dispenser with filtered water. The fridge could be on sale for $2,499 down from its original price of $3,149. Whirlpool 19.4 cu. ft. 4-Door Refrigerator Whatever your household’s needs, this Whirlpool refrigerator suits all purposes. Its flexible spaces help you find your groceries easily. Talking of Black Friday deals, you might be able to save $320 on a price match guarantee. Frigidaire FFPS4533UM cu. Ft. Refrigerator This is a simple yet powerful fridge that has a 4.5 cu. ft capacity. It is a compact refrigerator that is perfect for those with minimal fridge spaces. It has adjustable glass shelves that can be moved easily to create more space. This fridge might be available at $579 this holiday shopping season.