Helpful Tips on Cleaning, Product Safety, Recycling, Filters

Cop with a Mop has put together some helpful cleaning tips
for your convenience. Also, in the "Environmental" column to
the right, you can click on any title to get more information and
related links (compliments of DirectoryM.com).

Pet stains are best removed when still wet. Soak up the urine with a thick layer
of paper towels and cover that with newspaper. Stand on the padding for about a
minute, replace the padding and repeat until the area is barely damp. Rinse the
area with clean, cool water. After rinsing remove as much of the water as
possible by blotting or using a wet vac.
More Info: The Humane Society (Removing Pet Stains and Odors)

Children are much more vulnerable to household toxins than adults. With
still-developing organs and immune systems, their bodies are less able to
detoxify themselves. A few common household, cleaning products that are not
toxic to children are Baking Soda and Vinegar. It's always best to store harsher
cleaning products with child-proof safety latches.
More Info: Consumer Reports (Child Safety)

Dust mites and asthma are not a healthy combination, and dust can be a
powerful asthma trigger because it harbors other allergens, such as pollen and
animal dander. One helpful tip for getting rid of dust mites is to occasionally
place stuffed animals, pillows, etc. in plastic bags and put them in the freezer or
outside in a cold climate over night.
More Info: Environmental Protection Agency (Dust Mites and Asthma)

Try using shoe boxes to store recipes, tax receipts or other odds and ends.
Empty soup cans can be filled with batter for bread, muffins, etc. Just bake, cut
out the other end, and pop the bread out. An old chair pad can be used for
kneeling when gardening or just sitting around the campfire. You're only limited
by your own imagination.
More Info: PlanetGreen (How to Go Green by Recyling)

When using indoor pesticides, take these precautions: Always use legally sold
products. Read and follow label directions carefully. Use non-chemical
pesticides whenever possible. Ventilate the area during and after pesticide use.
Dispose of unused pesticides safely.
More Info: Environmental Protection Agency (Indoor Pesticide Safety)

Routine replacement of furnace filters can greatly increase overall efficiency and
indoor air quality. Replacing the filter yourself can also save you time and
money. It's as simple as locating and opening the filter housing. When removing
the old filter, be sure to keep track of how it was positioned so that the new one
fits properly. You can also apply this same logic to air humidifier filters.
More Info: HomeEnvy.com (Changing Furnace Filters)

Pet Stains and Odor

Children and Cleaning Product Safety

Dust Mites and Asthma

Recycling Tips

Using Indoor Pesticides

Changing Furnace Filters

Household Tips