Posts by kar41287:
- It saves you money on electricity/gas since you only use your own kinetic energy (muscles) and the power of the sun and wind.
- It is gentler on your clothing. Where do you think lint comes from? Lint is clothing fibers that have come off from a combination of heat and friction.
- The clothes come out cleaner. I know you probably won’t believe me until you try it yourself; but my whites are whiter, and stains are less noticeable (probably a mixture of the sun and being able to see which clothes need a little extra attention).
- You don’t need as much laundry detergent or water.
- Laundry detergent is more effectively rinsed out – I use to line dry after using the washing machine, with the same homemade powdered laundry detergent, and they dried harder than when hand washing, due to soap residue. With washing clothes by hand I can tell when the rinse water is running clear, making sure the majority of detergent has been removed.
- No need for ironing!!! Since line drying I haven’t had a problem with wrinkles, and washing clothes by hand allows me to make sure clothes are hung to dry as soon as they are clean.
- You don’t need to buy as many clothes; you only need 3 pairs if you wash every other day. I know, you are shocked a woman is saying this, but trust me, I love to shop just as much as the next person, but I love spending my money on higher priorities like paying bills, eating at a gourmet restaurant, buying organic food, and taking a vacation. Try satisfying your shopping addiction with window shopping (don’t bring the cards, cash, or checkbook), filling your clothing board on pinterest, or creating new outfits out of the clothes you already own.
- You get a quick arm workout.
- The sun’s solar rays a natural sanitizer.
- Rubber gloves – this will protect your hands from detergent and blisters.
- Three 5 gallon buckets, a tub, or sink.
- An agitator; you can use a new plunger with holes cut out, but for a long term solution buy a Rapid Washer – it moves clothes around and helps suction water through clothing (Tip: buy a long screw on pole from Home Depot or Lowes and use gorilla glue or other adhesive to secure it – the pole it comes with is too short (I’m 4 ft. 10 in. and it is too short for me) and without gluing it will continue to twist off as you use it).
- Eco-Friendly, Homemade powdered laundry detergent, Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds, or other low suds and eco-friendly detergent (it needs to be eco-friendly and biodegradable when being poured outside).
- Distilled white vinegar – this is used during the rinse as a natural fabric softener.
- A water source.
- A clothes line (I prefer a portable one so I can hang clothes inside during bad weather).
- Clothes pins.
- Wringer (optional) – I use just my hands to wring out water by twisting and squeezing clothing, but the wringer can squeeze out more water and makes it easier on tired hands.
- Washboard (optional) – I found a small washboard being used for decoration at a flea market, after removing the paint I occasionally use it on stubborn stains.
- A foot stool (optional) – I sit on my foot stool when wringing out clothes, to avoid bending over or getting on my knees.
- To keep clothes soft (specifically towels and jeans) make sure you rinse all the soap out.
- Washing machines don’t rinse all the soap out, causing them to dry hard on the line, and to deteriorate the fabric quicker. By washing by hand I can visually see if they need additional rinsing.
- Make sure you wring as much of the soapy water out of jeans and towels as possible, reducing their stiffness.
- Reopen and shake clothing after wringing them out to aid in rinsing and help prevent wrinkles.
- If you use the homemade powdered laundry detergent, you can pour the dirty water over ant beds to help get rid of them. Borax is used in most bug sprays, but is safe on plants.
- Shake clothes out before hanging, and make sure to hang them in their proper form, not bunched up.
- Make as few layers as possible (preferably 1 or two) so the wind can easily blow through the clothing, speeding up dry time.
- Hang jeans, dress shirts, and socks by the bottom hem – allowing a quicker dry time by them not being folded over the line, avoiding marks from the clothes pin, and leaving a softer fabric due to more air flow.
- Leave space between clothing for air flow.
- If you live in a climate where dew accumulates, you need to bring clothes inside before night fall (also, it helps keep the bugs away).
- Don’t have your line set up under a tree (birds can cause rewashing to be required).
- After all clothes are hung do a last wringing of the bottom of jeans and towels to help get rid of the extra water.
- Hang diapers, socks, and cloth wipes in a prominent spot for the sun to remove stains and kill germs.
- 1 cup almond milk
- ½ cup rolled oats (not quick oats)
- ½ tsp. imitation vanilla extract (no alcohol)
- ½ tsp. cinnamon
- 1 tsp. coconut oil
- ¼ cup diced almonds (or nut of your choice)
- 2 Tbps. Optional additonal ingredients (fruit, nuts, chocolate, or peanut butter)
- Add all ingredients to a wide mouth mason jar (except the additional ingredients).
- Seal the jar and shake to mix ingredients.
- Place in fridge overnight (keeps for 2-3 days).
- Add any additional fruit (chopped apple, cranberries, raisins), nuts, chocolate, or peanut butter in the morning and enjoy.
- If you decide to eat it hot, make sure you add more almond milk before heating.
- Freezing Vegetables: Blanch clean veggies first in boiling water, and then submerge in ice water, dry thoroughly, place in air-tight container (filling to top) or freezer bag. Frozen vegetables will last about 18 months.
- Freezing Fruit: Spread fruit out on a parchment lined cookie sheet and freeze, so they won’t stick together. As soon as they are frozen place in freezer bag and return to freezer. Frozen fruit will last about 1 year. (If eating frozen fruit by itself, eat before it is completely thawed so it won’t become mushy.)
- Make sure your freezer temperature is at 0°F or colder.
- Freeze fruits and vegetables quickly while they are fresh.
- Make sure you remove as much air possible from your container.
- Visit a state park. State parks are very budget-friendly and offer a variety of things to do. The most it has cost to get into a park was $3 for parking, or $20 for camping. We even found a park near Monroe, La for $1 per day. You can fish, swim, go hiking, look through the visitor’s center, take nature tours the park rangers provide, and some parks have boat rides and rental areas (paddle boat, kayak, and canoe).
- Go to the zoo. A family can spend an entire day at the zoo, just remember to pack your lunch and only take pictures for souvenirs to save money.
- Go on a safari. Drive through safaris can be cheaper than visiting a zoo, plus they are more interactive. Most drive through safaris offer a petting zoo and food to feed the animals from your window.
- Collect scrap metal. I know, you are wondering how that is going to entertain your kid. Well, it works for my sisters. We happen to have access to land that has a lot of scrap metal buried in the dirt, but if you don’t you can always take a walk and collect cans as you go. This not only cleans up pollution, but you can turn the scrap metal in for money and give your child a portion for their help.
- Target practice. Target practice can be a fun way to work on hand-eye coordination. This can be done with your choice of equipment (archery, shooting, darts, sling shot, airsoft, throwing bouncing balls, etc.) Make sure you go over safety and handling rules with all target practice items.
- Have a beauty day. Make homemade body scrub and moisturizer, use the beauty products on each other, give massages, soak your feet in Epsom salt, and give each other manicures and pedicures.
- Make crafts. Make paracord bracelets, key chains, gun slings, or dog collars; decorate plain headbands with ribbon or buttons, use beads, buttons, and twine to make bracelets; learn to crochet or knit.
- Puzzles. Instead of just putting a puzzle together have puzzle races or do group puzzles within a time limit. You can also make your own puzzle (glue a picture onto cardboard and cut out the design).
- Game day. You can play a variety of board games, card games, or active games, like hide and seek, freeze tag, Simon says, etc.
- Have a scavenger hunt. You can give clues to find the next item, or you can have a list of items that need to be found – great for a nature hunt or at the mall (take a picture of the item, so you don’t have to buy it).
- Go swimming. There are many free swimming spots at local lakes or at a park.
- Go on a picnic. I actually recommend this one any time you leave the house for a fun activity (even if it is in the back of your car).
- Go fishing. Before fishing make sure you check your state’s regulations and teach your child how to safely handle a fishing pole and hook.
- Go camping. You can go camping at a state park for a small fee, in your back yard, or in the woods (make sure you have permission of the owner).
- Campfire cooking. I love cooking outside, especially on a campfire. This can get everyone involved on building the fire, preparing the food, and making dessert (smores!).
- Go to the movies. I recommend going to the movies in the morning, this is when prices are lower. And skip out on the popcorn and drinks, sneak in your own snacks if you must.
- Go to a museum. Check the schedule online for rates and ways to save. At the museums of Fair Park in Dallas we were able to get into 3 museums for the price of one by going on a Tuesday.
- Work on your photo albums. This gives you and the kids a chance to reminisce and organizes your collection of photos.
- Take a walk or hike. This can be done around your neighborhood, at the track, or at the local park.
- Have a mud bath. Ok, this might not be for all adults, but you would be missing out on a great skin treatment. Put your swim suits on, find a mud hole/or make one, and have fun covering each other in the wet dirt and making mud pies. Tip: Rinse off with a water hose and have a towel for each person to scoot across the floor with until they get to the shower.
- Bake or cook from scratch. Make cakes, cupcakes, pies, and different meals from scratch. Try a new recipe.
- Have an obstacle course race. Use pillows, blankets, chairs, clothing, eggs, spoons, and anything else you can think of to race around an obstacle course and have challenges to do (like put on and take off dress up clothes, or balancing an egg on a spoon).
- Decorate windows. Crayola has widow markers. They are washable, but allow kids to draw whatever they want on a window.
- Make presents for hospital patients. You can make cards, cookies, sock puppet dolls, gift baskets, and more for hospital patients (you might call the hospital to ask for suggestions and rules).
- Have a water fight. Use water guns, a water hose, and water balloons to get each other soaking wet.
- 1 lb./ 2½ cups unsalted peanuts (I prefer roasted.)
- 3 Tbs. oil (grapeseed, olive, or sunflower oil)
- 3 Tbs. honey
- Remove the peanut shells (I like to crack them open in a bowl with a meat cleaver.)
- Place all ingredients in a high-speed blender. (I recommend the Vitamix.)
- With the cover on and tamper in place, slowly increase the speed of the blender until it is at its highest setting.
- Using the tamper press down and back and forth until all peanuts are mixed.
- Turn off the blender.
- Using a spoon scoop the homemade peanut butter into a clean container (an old peanut butter jar).
- This will be good for around 5 months.
- Cloth wipes save you money. You don’t have to keep purchasing more wipes.
- Cloth wipes are eco-friendly since they don’t contribute to landfills.
- Cloth wipes are healthier. Have you ever read the ingredients on the back of your wipe container? Even “hypoallergenic” disposable wipes have ingredients like polysorbate 20, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, and the ever mysterious “fragrance”. I wouldn’t want to use these on myself, much less an infant or my hairless dog.
- Homemade cloth wipes are versatile. You can make different wipe solutions to fit your child’s and family’s needs.
- Cloth wipes are stronger and clean up the mess better.
- Pre-Made Solution that is usually available in a spray bottle, such as Thirsties Booty Luster, Eco Sprout’s Bottom Spray, Earth Mama Angel Baby Bottom Spray, and California Baby Diaper Area Wash.
- Wipe Concentrate is a liquid super concentrated form of the solution you will use. You will follow the directions to dilute the concentration. Examples are Lusa Organics Baby Wipe Juice and Kissaluvs Diaper Lotion Potion.
- Wipe Bits are small wax looking masses that are dissolved in hot water, then cooled before using. You only use one at a time when you need it and can carry them with you. You can purchase them from Knickernappiers Baby Bum Drops and brands on Etsy.com .
- Water is the main part of the solution; it can be used by itself or to dilute the other ingredients so they aren’t too harsh for baby’s sensitive skin. (I recommend distilled or boiled water when using wet wipes.)
- Oil helps the skin stay soft and helps the wipe slide gently across the baby’s skin. (I recommend Dr. Bronner’s Organic Coconut Oil.)
- Soap is used to cleanse the skin and remove urine and feces. (Many recipes call for baby wash – read the ingredients before choosing baby wash, many are just as damaging as those of disposable wipes. I recommend Dr. Bronner’s Castile Baby Soap .)
- Essential Oils are an optional way of adding antibacterial, healing, and aromatherapy properties. (Always choose pure essential oils, never synthetic, and buy organic when available to provide the most benefits possible.)
- 1/4 cup oil (Melted Coconut Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Sunflower Oil, Olive Oil, etc.)
- ½ cup liquid soap or baby wash (only 1 Tbsp. if using Dr. Bronner’s Organic Castile Soap)
- 2 cups water
- 2 chamomile tea bags (Steep in 2 cups of boiling water – make strong.)
- 2 drops lavender oil
- 1 Tbsp. baby wash
- 1 tsp. white vinegar
- 1 Tbsp calendula oil
- 5 drops lavender oil
- 5 drops tea tree oil
- ¼ cup 100% aloe vera gel
- ½ cup hot water
- 1/8 cup olive oil
- 1 Tbsp. baby wash
- 5 drops tea tree oil
- 10 drops lavender oil
- 3 cups water
- 2 drops tea tree oil
- 2 drops lavender oil
- 2 drops chamomile oil
- 2 cups water
- ¼ tsp. vitamin E oil or 2 vitamin E capsules emptied into solution
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 Tbsp. coconut oil
- 1 Tbsp. Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap
- Cleaning faces and hands.
- Family Cloth in the bathroom (Basically cloth baby wipes, with or without the solution, instead of toilet paper).
- Wiping dogs with allergies down after going outside. (My hairless Chinese Crested gets wiped down – feet, legs, and belly – after each trip outside to decrease swelling of feet and itching.)
- 1 Tbs Garlic
- 1 Tbs Sea Salt
- ½ cup Olive Oil
- ½ cup water or vegetable broth
- ½ Tbs Cayenne Pepper
- 7 oz can Chopped Green Chiles
- 11 oz can Southwest/ Spanish/Fiesta Corn
- ½ medium white onion, chopped
- 4 Red Potatoes, chopped
- 2 Bell Pepper, chopped (I like orange and yellow.)
- 2 Parsnips, chopped
- 2 Carrots, chopped
- 1 cup Low Fat Cheese
- For Tortilla Soup Leftovers:
- 1 Chicken Breast
- Cumin
- Garlic Powder
- Cheese
- Tortilla Chips
- Wash and chop all vegetables.
- In a large skillet, saute potatoes, carrots, and parsnips in the olive oil and water/vegetable broth on high for about 10 minutes or until vegetables are close to being tender (the liquid help soften the vegetables quicker, but will evaporate).
- Add remaining chopped vegetables, chiles, corn, garlic, cayenne pepper, salt and cook on medium high until all are tender.
- Add cheese.
Washing Clothes by Hand and Tips for Line Drying
May 30th, 2013I know you didn’t think anyone washed clothes by hand anymore (at least not in a 1st world country). Well, you would be wrong. There are thousands of people that wash their clothes by hand every day, every other day, or once a week. I’ve read about individuals to families of nine washing clothes by hand. This can be due to finances, religion, environmental awareness, or a love of self-reliance. For me, it is a mixture of reasons – a love of saving money, knowing I’m not using electricity, and knowing washing clothes by hand is gentler on fabrics, yet cleans them better than traditional washing machines.
How I got started washing clothes by hand:
When my husband and I lived in an apartment in 2011 (located within walking distance of my graduate school) there were a few months that I didn’t have a washer and dryer. I wasn’t comfortable driving around the town I had just moved to, yet the laundromat on site was too expensive to use, and too awkwardly designed to stay there the hours it took my laundry to finish. The solution was to wash my clothes in the tub. This was before I had done any research and was using regular store bought detergent. I would wash with only my hands and the faucet, and then I would hang the clothes on an extra shower curtain rod I placed in the middle of the tub. My clothes came out clean, but very stiff (to the point I would have to rewet the towels to bend them). At the beginning of 2012, I moved into the RV with my husband (rather than staying back home while he was on the road), where we don’t have washer and dryer hookups. We started staying at RV parks that have laundromats on site that were free or about $2 per load. I would wash laundry then hang clothes out to dry, to save money. This was when I was beginning to switch from store bought detergent to homemade detergent and noticed clothing was stiffer using store bought detergent. Toward the end of 2012 we were at an RV park that offered free laundry, but the four hours it took to wash two loads of clothes left me feeling sick (due to lint, dust, and dry air). I decided to stop putting my health at risk in dirty and stuffy laundry facilities and to stop paying for use of a washing machine when I could be self-reliant. I also liked the idea of saving water, so I decided to start washing clothes by hand. I did my research and decided the tub wasn’t my favorite choice for everyday washing, due to cleaning it and carrying wet clothes through our home. Instead, I purchased two five-gallon buckets with lids and two Rapid Washer agitators for my everyday washing. Over time I have improved my washing, rinsing, and drying methods, discovered that unless you have two people washing at the same time you only need one agitator, and it probably would have helped to have three buckets, instead of two.
What I typically wash – Daily: 1-2 bath towels, one washcloth, my husband’s work jeans, my husband’s work shirt, my husband’s t-shirt, my husband’s tank top, my husband’s 2 pairs of knee high socks, my husband’s boxer briefs, my t-shirt, my jeans, my ankle socks, and my bra and panties; Twice a Week: 20 cloth baby wipes, 5 cloth paper towels, and 5 cleaning rags; Once a Week: queen sheet set (fitted, top, and pillow cases) and 2 large blankets.
Benefits of Washing Clothes by Hand and Line-Drying:
What you will need:
There are three different places you can wash clothes by hand: a sink (mine is too small and I do larger loads, and I don’t like the idea of using the same spot I wash dishes to wash my dirty clothing), in a bathtub, and in a five-gallon bucket. I use the bathtub for about 3 or 4 days’ worth of clothing, or for big items like sheets and comforters (about 2 large laundry baskets worth). I use the five-gallon bucket every day or every other day, outside (it can be used inside, but place it in your tub or in another area you don’t mind getting wet).
In a Bathtub:
In a clean bathtub, with the stopper in, add 4 Tbsp. Eco-friendly, all natural, homemade powdered laundry detergent or ½ cup Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds. Add clothes to tub (lay them flat, unfold socks, and spread them out evenly) and fill with water (make sure you have enough water for the clothes to move around during agitation, about ½ – 1 inch over the level of clothes). – I recommend using cold water for everything, except cloth diapers and wipes, which need to be washed separately from the rest of the laundry.
Pre-soak clothes for 20 minutes to 1 hr. depending on how dirty and how many you place in the tub. I soak in the tub according to how many clothes are being washed at one time.
Agitate about 2 minutes (100 strokes).
Empty tub, wring clothes, fill with clean cold water (rinse clothes under faucet as filling), soak about 5 minutes, and agitate about 2 minutes (100 strokes).
Empty tub, wring clothes, fill with clean cold water (rinse clothes under faucet as filling), add 4 cups white distilled vinegar to tub, agitate about 2 minutes (100 strokes). If water looks clean and has no bubbles, then wring and hang to dry, if not repeat rinsing.
In a 5 Gallon Bucket:
If inside, cut a 1” hole in the center of the bucket lid to place the agitator handle through, keeping water from splashing everywhere,
Fill all buckets half full of water (one is for washing, the others are for rinsing).
In one bucket (your wash bucket) add 1/2 Tbs. homemade powdered laundry detergent or 2 Tbsp. Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds. Agitate for 100 strokes (about 2 min.). Wring clothing out, and place in the first rinse bucket.
Let soak in first rinse bucket for about 2 minutes, then agitate about 1 minute (50 strokes) in rinse water, and wring clothes out.
Place clothes in second rinse bucket, with water and 1 cup of distilled white vinegar, agitate about 1 minute (50 strokes), then wring and hang clothes to dry (if water looks clean and has no bubbles, if not, repeat rinsing). Note: I don’t have a third five-gallon bucket yet, so after wringing them out after the first rinse, I lay them in a clothes basket until I am finished washing all the clothes, then I do my final rinse cycle).
(With one bucket I wash 1 pair of men’s medium jeans – mainly because they are covered in oil and grease; 2 large towels; 2 large hoodies; 2 size 0 women’s jeans; about 30 large wash cloths; or about 3 t-shirts and 4 undergarment sets. I typically change the water out after 2 or 3 loads, depending on how dirty it looks.)
Tip:
Next Cleaning/ Organizing Tip: Eco-Friendly, All Natural, Homemade Laundry Detergent
Next Step for Green Living: Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergent
Overnight Oatmeal
May 21st, 2013Most mornings I’m hungry, but I don’t want to take the time to make breakfast; solution, Overnight Oatmeal! Overnight oatmeal is delicious, it stays fresh 2 to 3 days in the fridge (so I can make a couple at once), and the additional ingredients (fruit, homemade peanut butter, homemade jam, or nuts/seeds) can be changed each morning.
Next Recipe: Homemade Jam (Strawberry or Blackberry)
12 Tips and Tricks for Preparing and Storing Food (Making Meal Planning and Cleanup Easier)
May 21st, 2013Good Food for Little Cash: Grocery Shopping on a Budget was an article that helped me focus on my cooking habits, but one thing I didn’t mention were the tips and tricks for preparing and storing food. Using these 12 tips and tricks for preparing and storing food, after each grocery trip has streamlined my cooking experience and made meal planning and cleanup easier.
1. Wash off any dirt, and then clean your fruits and vegetables with 1 part/cups distilled white vinegar and 3 parts/cups water. Use a spray bottle to cover smooth skinned fruits and vegetables (strawberries, raspberries, peppers, eggplant) and let set for about 3 minutes, then rinse the vinegar solution off, and let the fruit/vegetable dry on a towel. For rough skin or leafy fruits and vegetables (kiwi, broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, and lettuce) fill a bowl or clean sink with the vinegar solution and let them soak for about 5 minutes. Then rinse the solution off and let dry on a towel. It is good to use this solution on all fruits and vegetables (even those you remove the skin of) because many farmers use pesticides and many produce have harmful bacteria on their skin, that when cut or bitten into can leave you sick.
2. With clean dry fruits and vegetables cut up the produce you will need for the week and store it in the measurement sizes you will need for each meal, and make sure you have some set aside for snacks.
3. Prepare meals ahead of time: salad in a mason jar will last for about a week (bottom to top: dressing, fruit, nuts, broccoli, carrots, spinach, lettuce); boil eggs for breakfast, a snack, or to use in tuna/chicken salad; overnight oats (a flavorful oatmeal that doesn’t require heating and last 2 to 3 days in the fridge); and hummus and hot sauce last a week in the fridge.
4. Replace original frozen fruit and veggie bags with quart size freezer bags. Place 2 cups of the fruit or veggie in each bag, roll the air out, zip closed, spread the produce flat, write the measurment on the bag, and place in freezer. This allows the frozen produce to lay flat in the freezer, take up less space, and make it easy to grab the amount you need without additional measuring. The standing bags frozen produce comes in (like the Dole brand) take up more space in the freezer and the ones that are supposed to lie flat don’t have all the air removed and can result in damaged food. (12 oz. Great Value blueberries = 1 ½ – 2 cups; 16 oz. Great Value strawberries = 3 -4 cups; 16 oz. Dole Mangos = 4 cups).
5. Freeze extra fruits and veggies (or those needed for smoothies).
6. Freeze extra hot sauce in a quart mason jar.
7. Freeze extra yogurt cups and if you place a popsicle stick in them before freezing you can have a yogurt pop.
8. Freeze dough in a tube (biscuits, crescent rolls, cinnamon buns) or homemade dough.
9. Freeze blocks of cheese or shredded cheese (make sure to thaw completely before use).
10. Freeze cooked rice. (Cook rice, freeze on a parchment lined cookie sheet, place in freezer bag, and return to freezer.)
11. Freeze mashed potatoes. (Cook mashed potatoes, scoop individual serving sizes onto a parchment lined cookie sheet, freeze, place in freezer bag, and return to freezer.)
12. Prepare crockpot ingredients ahead of time, place in freezer bag, and freeze. (Make sure to label what crockpot meal it is and any additional instructions needed.) (Most recipes leave the broth/stock and rice out of the freezer bag.) (Try freezing crockpot chicken fajitas – just leave out the chicken stock until everything is in the crockpot.)
I hope using my 12 tips and tricks help you make meal planning and cleanup easier. What are your tips and tricks for preparing and storing food?
Next Cleaning/Organizing Tip: Washing Clothes by Hand and Tips for Line Drying
25 Fun and Budget-Friendly Activities for Kids
May 20th, 2013As the school year ends I think of all the kids that will be home for the summer and a parent’s need for fun budget-friendly activities for kids. Every year I get my younger (7 to 16 years younger) sisters for a week during the summer, and a few weekends throughout the year, and every time I need activities to keep them engaged instead of sleeping all day or saying, “I’m bored.” Here are 25 fun and budget-friendly activities for kids, which I have used for all age levels.
I could keep going, but I think I’ll just stop with 25 fun and budget friendly activities for kids. What are some of your favorite activities you do with your kids?
Next Financial Tip: Debt Reduction Tips and Tools
Previous Financial Tip: All About Homemade Cloth Baby Wipes and Wipe Solutions
Homemade Peanut Butter (sweet and creamy)
May 18th, 2013 I love peanut butter!!! I could eat it every day, but I don’t like the added preservatives, sugar, and random ingredients from the store-bought peanut butters. I’ve bought the pure peanut butter (made only with peanuts) but the cost is high and my husband prefers it to have a little sweeter taste and to be easier to spread. The homemade peanut butter I make in my high-speed blender fits his requirements (even though I still love just plain peanut butter) and costs around $1 for a 16 oz. jar.
If you would prefer not to use oil in your peanut butter check out my peanut butter recipe made with 100% peanuts.
Next Homemade Savings: Homemade Jam (Strawberry or Blackberry)
Next Recipe: Overnight Oatmeal
All About Homemade Cloth Baby Wipes and Wipe Solutions
May 10th, 2013I know, you are asking yourself why anyone would make homemade cloth baby wipes when you can just buy disposable wipes; it’s what almost everyone does. Personally, the only advantage of disposable wipes is convenience. Just because something is convenient/easier and popular doesn’t mean it is better. Homemade cloth wipes have a variety of benefits that you can’t get with traditional wipes:
Making Cloth Wipes
So how do you make homemade cloth wipes? That is up to you. You can cut up receiving blankets or other soft fabric – such as cotton, fleece, and flannel – and sew up the edges to keep from fraying, use socks, buy baby washcloths, or buy brand cloth wipes like Thirsties, Bumgenius, or my personal favorite OsoCozy Flannel Baby Wipes.
Thirsties 6 Pack Fab Wipes, BoyOsoCozy Flannel Baby Wipes – 15 Pack (Unbleached)Zelda Matilda Organic Collection: THICKEST, SOFTEST Baby Bamboo Washcloth / Wipes. Perfect For Baby’s sensitive skin! Special narrow sides for comfortable in-between toe cleaning!! (6 Pack)
Containers
You will need to keep your wipes in a container available at home and during travel; plus you will need a way of storing dirty wipes. For at home, I recommend the OXO Tot Perfect Pull Wipes Dispenser. With this dispenser you don’t have to worry about how you are folding your wipes, as long as they are layered one on top of the other. The weighted opening allows you to reach and pull out one wipe at a time with ease and the clear window allows you to see when wipes are low. I can fit 30 cloth wipes in this dispenser. For travel I recommend a Planet Wise Wipe Pouch, if you don’t want to carry the large dispenser. For dirty wipes a large wet bag works great at home (this can be used for cloth diapers too) and a small/medium wet bag for your diaper bag.
Planet Wise Reusable Diaper Pail Liner, SlatePlanet Wise Wet Diaper Bag, Gray Houndstooth, LargeKanga Care Wet Bag, Charlie
Cloth Wipe Solutions
There are a variety of cloth wipe solutions and recipes to choose from, and you have the added choice of storing your wipes wet or dry. I personally prefer dry wipes and the use of a spray bottle for the solution (you can get small spray bottles here), to avoid mold and mildew, but using a wipes wet bag with pre-moistened cloth wipes for traveling (since there are fewer and less likely to sit around long enough to mold or mildew).
If you don’t want to take the time to make your own cloth wipe solution there are a variety you can buy:
Baby Bits Wipes Solution – Makes 1,000 Natural WipesLusa Organics Baby Wipe Juice – Certified Organic with Natural, Safe, and Gentle Ingredients – Locally Grown and Tested – Synthetic Fragrance and Preservative FREE – 8 Ounces and Makes 2 GallonsKnickernappies Baby Bum Drops – Wipe Solution Earth Mama Angel Baby New Mama Bottom Spray, 4 Ounce BottleCalifornia Baby Diaper Area Wash – Non-Burning & Calming, 6.5 oz
Homemade Cloth Wipe Solution Recipes
First, there are four basic ingredients when making a homemade cloth wipes solution:
Tip: When mixing solutions first pour your water to avoid creating bubbles.
Basic Wipe Solution (Can be used with your favorite soap and oil.)
Chamomile Tea and Lavender Solution
Anti-Fungal Solution (Great for preventing and treating yeast diaper rashes.)
Tea Tree and Lavender (Great for preventing and treating diaper rash.)
Vitamin E Solution (Can be added to the bath.)
Coconut Oil Solution
Dr. Bronner’s – Fair Trade & Organic Fresh Pressed White Kernel Virgin Coconut Oil – 14 ozTop 6 Organic Essential Oils Set. Includes 100% Pure, Undiluted, Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils of Eucalyptus, Lavender, Orange, Peppermint, Lemon and Tea Tree. 10ml EachTraditional Medicinals Organic, Chamomile, 16-Count Boxes (Pack of 6)Dr. Bronner’s Fair Trade & Organic Castile Liquid Soap – (Unscented, 16 oz)ArtNaturals Aloe Vera Gel for Face, Hair & Body – Certified Organic, 100% Pure Natural & Cold Pressed 12 Oz – For Sun Burn, Eczema, Bug or Insect Bites, Dry Damaged Aging skin, Razor Bumps and Acne
Washing Cloth Wipes
Unless your baby is entirely on breast milk their poop will need to be cleaned off the wipe (shake, dunk in toilet, spray off –for less mess use the Spray Pal and Diaper Sprayer, or use a spatula to wipe squishy/sticky poop off), just like cloth diapers. Some families use toilet paper to grab the bigger chunks and flush them, then use the cloth wipe to finish cleaning baby. Since I wash clothes by hand I like to boil cloth wipes for 2 or 3 minutes, then use that hot water and detergent to wash them, then get fresh water and detergent for a second wash, finishing with two rinse cycles and drying on the line. You can wash them along with your cloth diapers. Try this Eco-friendly, all natural, homemade laundry detergent on your cloth diapers and wipes.
Spray Pal and Cloth Diaper Sprayer Bundle
Other Uses for Cloth Wipes
Using cloth wipes is a versatile and easy way to make a healthy and eco-friendly habit for your child and entire family. What is your favorite cloth wipes solution and what are your tips for cloth wipe beginners?
Next Homemade Savings: Homemade Peanut Butter (sweet and creamy)
Next Step to Green Living: Washing Clothes by Hand and Tips for Line Drying
Next Financial Tip: 25 Fun and Budget-Friendly Activities for Kids
Next Health Tip: Top 5 Healthy Apps for your Smart Phone, Tablet or Other Mobile Device
My Favorite Eco-Friendly Products
April 8th, 2013With Earth Day around the corner, I began thinking of all the products we have switched to (bought and homemade) over these past few years, to create a healthier and more eco-friendly home. These products cut down both landfill pollution and water pollution, and besides being eco-friendly they are budget friendly.
Cloth Paper Towel Roll I hate buying an item that is only used once, then tossed. Paper towels seemed to be the main item filling up our trashcan. The solution was to ditch the paper towels and use cloth paper towels instead. These are great at cleaning dirty hands and faces, wiping up spills, and scrubbing grime from the counter, but allow you to wash and reuse countless times. When searching for them, they are called unpaper towels, reusable paper towels, or cloth paper towels. I love the ones made by SewItBoutique on Etsy (they snap together and are reinforced in the center so the cotton and terry cloth sides don’t move around). I like having my pretty unpaper towel roll on the roll (I duct taped an old cardboard roll to keep it sturdy) for simple things like drying hands and wiping up a spill. I bought some white unpaper towels (ManInTheMoonHerbs on Etsy – I love that these don’t leave lint on anything) to use for cleaning up grease, dirt, and washing dishes. Even with 3 people we don’t go through a roll of 12 cloth paper towels or 13 white cleaning cloths in a week. If you are just drying your hands after washing them, the same towel can be used throughout the day. (Tip: Buy a wet bag to keep dirty towels separate from the rest of laundry.)
Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds Liquid Cleanser This product was a must have for us. I have sensitive skin and my husband will get sick (difficulty breathing and stomach problems) from smelling fumes from cleaning products (bleach, toilet bowl cleaner, Comet, etc.). Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds Liquid Cleanser is organic, eco-friendly, biodegradable, and a fair trade product. It can be used for washing dishes, laundry, and household surfaces. We bought the gallon jug and it lasts forever, plus it cleans better than anything else I have used. I had been trying for 2 years to remove the soap scum from my tub; after 5 minutes of soaking in Sal Suds, the soap scum wiped right off. You use 1 ½ tsp. of cleanser with 1 gallon of water to make the solution. Then for easier use put the solution into a spray bottle. (Tip: With the first batch, buy the gallon of distilled water at the store, then when the solution runs out boil your own water and after it cools reuse the water jug to make the solution). We also love: Dr. Bronner’s Organic Shaving Gel – Lavender, 7 oz Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps Pure-Castile Soap, All-One Hemp Peppermint, 5-Ounce Bars (Pack of 6)Dr. Bronner’s Fair Trade & Organic Castile Liquid Soap – (Tea Tree, 32 oz)Dr. Bronners Almond Bar Soap 5oz. (2 Pack)Dr. Bronner’s Fair Trade & Organic Hair Conditioning Rinse – (Citrus Orange, 8 oz)Dr. Bronner – Lavender & Coconut Hair Conditioner & Styling Creme, 6 fl oz cream
Homemade Powdered Laundry Detergent and Liquid Laundry Detergent Follow the links to discover the financial and environmental benefits of both of these DIY laundry detergents.
Haan FS20 Steam Mop As you discovered previously, my husband and I have issues with cleaning solutions. I really don’t see the benefit of using chemicals in a home. My mom has used a steam mop for years but I wondered if it really was sanitizing, or was it just making the floor look clean. When doing my research to find the steam mop perfect for me, I came across the Haan FS20 Steam Mop. It gets up to a temperature of 212 F, hot enough to kill germs. Besides the floors, I have used it on our mattress, the couch, the table, counters, and the tub. I recommend also purchasing the short handle accessory and TH20 tray so all the functions are available. If you are like me (or my husband when he wants to “play” with the mop), you might want to clean everything in a day, so buy more microfiber cleaning pads, so you have enough for each job. (Tip: Read the instructions and remember it will take a few minutes to heat up and cool down completely; and be careful around the hot steam and handling the used pads.)
Reusable Cloth Grocery Bags and Produce Bags Like I mentioned earlier, I hate trash. Even though we typically don’t get charged for grocery and produce bags, I hate the idea that I am polluting the environment when shopping, and that my groceries are touching something with possible harmful chemicals. These bags are eco-friendly since they can be reused. The produce bags are healthier and help fruits and veggies last longer, plus they are made from recycled products. (Tip: ChicoBag rePETe mesh bags are perfect for storing apples, oranges, onion, potatoes , and other produce not stored in the fridge – it allows ethylene gas to escape; ChicoBag hemp-cotton blend bag is perfect for nuts, grains, green beans, and bulk food – it absorbs excess moisture and restricts airflow; and the ChicoBag rePETe bag is perfect for squash, broccoli, carrots, and celery – restricts airflow and locks in moisture.)
Menstrual Cup Follow the link to discover the health, environmental, and financial benefits of using a menstrual cup compared to tampons and pads.
Drying Rack When the weather is warmer, we use our drying rack, instead of wasting electricity on the dryer. Also, without the intense heat of the dryer, clothing lasts longer.
Homemade Baby Wipes/Family Wipes I know we don’t have a baby (yet), however, the use of baby wipes started with our dog, Frodo. He is a hairless Chinese crested that has allergies, resulting in itchy skin and breakouts. The vet said we needed hypoallergenic baby wipes, so we can wipe him down after each trip outside. That is a lot of wipes. They are expensive and, as we came to find out, it is a major pain to find hypoallergenic ones that are not in a plastic box. We save money, decrease trash, and know we are using safe, healthy wipes, by making our own hypoallergenic reusable cloth baby wipes. (I also use these in place of toilet paper). [Update:12/5/14 – Our son is here and we only use cloth wipes.]
Ceramic Cookware Many people are beginning to learn the benefits of cooking with ceramic cookware. It is non-stick, without the toxins and chipping of Teflon. For additional information on the dangers of teflon, check out Dr. Weil’s answer about the difference in teflon and ceramic cookware.
Reusable Food Containers Another way to cut down on trash is by using reusable snack and sandwich bags and Pyrex glass containers instead of plastic storage bags/ freezer bags. Pyrex is dishwasher, microwave, and freezer safe. It does a beautiful job of freezing leftovers; and is a perfect container for taking pastas, meat, and soups for lunch. The LunchSkins reusable sandwich and snack bags seal with velcro and easily wipe clean. These hand-sewn, American made bags are BPA, lead, and phthalate free. I was able to fit an apple, slice of cheese, and a spoon in the sandwich bag, and two protein bars in the snack bag, but they make a perfect place to store sandwiches (duh), fruits, and veggies.
Update 8/13/13: I have been having trouble with the Pyrex lids molding and discoloring, also two replacement sets have had lids that won’t seal tightly. In frustration, I looked for another glass storage container that was still oven, microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe. I found Lock & Lock Boroseal glass containers, with a pretty floral etching on the lid. The lids have a great seal with a sturdy clip down lock, and I haven’t had any problems with mold or discoloring. These are more expensive (bout $7+ per container) but you get what you pay for. I have found money saving sets here, here, here, and Sears, and individual containers at various kitchen outlet stores.
Lunchskins Multi-Pack Reusable Sandwich and Snack Bag (Set of 2), Wolf, Gray/NavyLunchskins Multi-Pack Reusable Sandwich and Snack Bag (Set of 2), Lizard, Green/BlueLunchskins 3pk Reusable Sandwich Bags: Bird Dragonfly SnailLunchskins 3pk Reusable Sandwich Bags: Apple Orange PearLock & Lock, No BPA, Water Tight, Food Container, 0.7-cup, 0.6-oz, Pack of 4, HPL805Popit Little Big Box Food Plastic Container Set, 8 Pack
Bonus Tip Instead of throwing away toilet paper rolls or the lent from the dryer, we save them to use as fire starters when camping or making a bonfire. By adding vanilla or sage to them, bugs can be deterred.
Wow! Looking back I can’t believe how all of our small changes have added up. We are definitely cleaning up some clutter in our lives: physical clutter in the house, environmental clutter, toxic clutter around the home, and financial clutter (by saving money). What are some of the ways you are cleaning out clutter and making your everyday life more eco-friendly?
Next Financial Tip: All About Homemade Cloth Baby Wipes and Wipe Solutions
Next Health Tip: What are Superfruits?
Next Step to Green Living: All About Homemade Cloth Baby Wipes and Wipe Solutions
Homemade Almond Coconut Oil Moisturizer
April 1st, 2013I am a lotion and moisturizer hoarder, or used to be. I have always suffered from dry skin; probably a combination from living in Texas, taking long hot baths, and hardly being thirsty, requiring me to remember to drink. Due to my dry skin I have owned a countless number of lotions and moisturizers, and would apply and reapply them multiple times a day, all without feeling my skin was healing or becoming hydrated.
I have been using one moisturizer for a year now. This was not bought at a store, but made at home for pennies. I typically only apply it once a day, but sometimes I use it twice, just because I love the smell. When I decided to take my moisturizing needs into my own hands, I first looked up the ingredients being used in the lotions and moisturizers I already owned (about 10 of them) – water (which is a filler and does nothing to help your skin if not consumed, and can actually dry your skin out by removing natural oils), alcohol (which dries out skin), fragrances (you never know which combination of chemicals are being used –check out ingredients that can be used under the label “fragrance”), refined vegetable oils (these damage skin by the free radicals created), and chemicals I couldn’t pronounce. No wonder my skin was still dry; natural ingredients were hardly available, even in my expensive moisturizers that were made by a company known to be nature-based. Because of this, I threw them all out, or gave them to relatives I knew would use them.
The second thing I did was research the effects of products in my kitchen with a long shelf life to see the effects of them when applied to the skin. The benefits I found were in coconut oil, almond extract, and grape seed oil.
Coconut oil is amazing when applied directly to skin. As was discussed in Benefits of Coconut Oil for the Skin, coconut oil “is reported to be effective in treating eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, skin infections, acne, and dry skin. There are also claims that coconut oil helps prevent premature aging and reduces the appearance of wrinkles.” The reason coconut oil, specifically organic virgin coconut oil, is so beneficial is not just because of its ability to make your skin feel softer and smoother, but because it prevents free-radical formation and provides protection against skin damage and slows or reverses aging of the skin.
Almond extract helps seal in moisture and strengthen skin. Almond extract is also said to have natural healing abilities.
Grape seed oil has antioxidants called procyanidolic oligomers (PCO’s). PCO’s help slow the aging process, help decrease inflammation, and can help clear up acne. Grape seed oil also helps prevent pores from clogging and breakouts from forming.
I know I went a month without my homemade moisturizer, while living in the very dry climate of Decatur, Texas, and my skin was cracking and bleeding. As soon as I was able to make more of it, after a week of use my skin was healed, soft, and glowing. Now that you know the benefits of my homemade almond coconut oil moisturizer, I bet you are wondering how to make it.
• 2 cups coconut oil (I prefer Dr. Bronner’s Organic Fresh-Pressed Coconut Oil.)
• 2 Tbs. almond extract
• 1 Tbs. grape seed oil
• 2 Tbs. imitation vanilla (Optional: The smell is a stress reducer.)
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until creamy and fluffy, then place into container of your choice. Keep it at room temperature to prevent melting or hardening.
Dr Bronner’s Fresh-pressed Virgin Coconut Oil White Kernel Unrefined 14 Fl OzTips: Organic virgin coconut oil will make the moisturizer look more like pudding while the cheaper coconut oil will make it look like whipping cream. If the almond coconut oil moisturizer melts, place it in the fridge to firm up, then re-whisk, and if it hardens, heat it to soften (Try a blow dryer. A microwave for 10-15 seconds works, but could destroy nutritional benefits); then re-whisk. Only use a small amount when applying. I use about a fingertip worth on my entire face. Also, let it absorb as long as you can, but if need be, dab off the excess.
The links supplied are for organic products. Making your Almond Coconut Oil Moisturizer with organic ingredients is beneficial for those with sensitive skin.
References:
http://www.coconut-connections.com/skin_care.htm
http://www.spiceplace.com/about-almond-extract.php
http://www.foreverlookingood.com/benefits-of-grape-seed-oil/
http://www.ifraorg.org/en-us/Ingredients_2
http://www.livestrong.com/article/110274-effects-water-skin/
http://cleaningouttheclutter.com/2012/05/benefits-of-coconut-oil-for-the-skin/
Cheesy Spanish Vegetable Stir Fry : With a Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe for Leftovers
February 24th, 2013
Cheesy Spanish vegetable stir fry is a favorite recipe of mine, and the leftover recipe, chicken tortilla soup, is one of my husband’s favorites. Spanish vegetable stir fry is a vegetarian recipe, perfect for Meatless Mondays. It creates anywhere from 7 to 8 cups of food, roughly 4 servings for adult portions.
Next Recipe: Healthy Breakfast Protein Smoothie
A Menstrual Cup is a Girl’s Best Friend
February 22nd, 2013Yes, a menstrual cup is a girl’s best friend; what did you think it was, a diamond? I know I am a little over excited to be discussing a subject that is usually considered taboo for polite conversation, feminine hygiene products, specifically the use of a menstrual cup. I know many women have never heard of a menstrual cup, much less used one. The popular feminine hygiene products are disposable tampons and disposable pads, both of which possibly have harmful chemicals and side effects, cost more money each month, and are not eco-friendly. Menstrual cups break the mold! Trust me when I tell you my Diva Cup changed my views of having a period.
What is a menstrual cup you ask? Good question! It is a flexible cup that is worn inside of the vagina during menstruation to collect menstrual fluid. It is typically made of medical grade silicone, which is safe and hypoallergenic. Menstrual cups collect fluids, rather than absorbing them like tampons and pads. Collected fluids are poured out when the cup is full (typically every 12 hours or sooner, depending on flow). You then wipe the cup out, or rinse it in the sink and reinsert. Also, you won’t need to buy a new menstrual cup for 5 to 10 years, but some companies recommend once a year due to hygiene standards.
Benefits of a Menstrual Cup
Unlike tampons, you do not have to worry about toxic shock syndrome (TSS). The medical grade silicone is perfectly safe. Tampons tend to be over absorbent and absorb a woman’s natural discharge, inevitably taking away one of our natural protections. The FDA states, “TSS is a rare but potentially fatal disease caused by a bacterial toxin. (Different bacterial toxins may cause TSS, depending on the situation, but most often streptococci and staphylococci are responsible.) The number of reported TSS cases has decreased significantly in recent years. Approximately half the cases of TSS reported today are associated with tampon use during menstruation, usually in young women.” The FDA also discusses vaginal dryness and ulcerations occurring when women use a higher absorbent tampon than needed for their current flow or when using tampons between periods to absorb excessive vaginal discharge. TMI, but since I was thirteen I have had very heavy flows that lasted around 10 days, and yet tampons were still uncomfortable due to over absorption, yet not absorbent enough because they still leaked. Excessive absorption is not an issue with a menstrual cup – only what needs to flow out does.
Not only are menstrual cups a healthier alternative to tampons and pads, but they are an eco-friendly one. When tampons and pads are thrown away (which for me was around 30 a month), resources such as cotton are being wasted; and toxins are being leached out, polluting our soil and water. Menstrual cups are made of silicone, which has no known toxins. It is non-biodegradable, but with your final use, if you clean it, then cut it into tiny pieces, it can be absorbed by solids in waste water treatment facilities, which is then incinerated, entombed in a landfill, or spread out as fertilizer; with the later it has the opportunity to go through degradation. So, stop polluting and filling up trash cans with tampons and pads that no one wants to see and deal with your menstrual flow more discreetly.
Filling up those trash cans each month is costly, as well; I know it was for me. Up until 3 months ago. I was spending an average of $9.00 a month to get my preferred brand of tampons in a variety pack, because you cannot use “Super” when you are just having a “Regular” day, not to mention when I was a teenager, panty liners or pads were used because there were times with all of my extra-curricular activities that I did not have time to change my tampon every 2 to 4 hours as needed, meaning there was a more likely chance of leaks. That is a cost of $108 a year, not counting liners, pads and extra tampons on the months that were worse. Now, what do I spend on menstruation? Around $30 for the menstrual cup, and because I like to be prepared I have 3 organic cotton pads that I can wash (which by the way don’t release an odor like disposable pads and are dry to the touch) that cost me around $20, and a wet bag that cost me around $15 (this isn’t needed but I use it to store everything in and if I need to I can place a used pad in it, without soiling any other items). That is a total of $65 for everything and they will last you years. That is a savings of more than $40 just for the first year, after that you really are on a roll. So, what would you do with the money you save by using a menstrual cup?
Oh, two more benefits of the menstrual cup: you only need one size: Size 1: Pre-Childbirth or , Size2: Post-Childbirth (you determine which size by whether you have had a baby or not, it doesn’t matter if you had a c-section or gave natural birth, your vagina will be slightly larger if you have had a child); and based on reviews and my personal 3 month experience, it decreases your length of periods and intensity of cramps. Honestly, I already told you how I have always had a heavy flow that lasts around 10 days each month, which was what was normal for me. I also had pretty bad cramps that would make it difficult to walk. Not any more – the last three months have been a breeze! The cramping is hardly noticeable and my period only lasts 5 days. That is time cut in half! Should I do a happy dance, or what? My doctor said there is a very small chance that is a coincidence that my body all of a sudden changed after nearly 13 years of the same type of cycle; instead it’s more likely my menstrual flow is able to flow normally and because I’m not combating foreign material, since menstrual cups are made of medical grade silicone and not cotton or rayon fibers.
Choosing and Using a Menstrual Cup
So, for those of you wanting to try out a menstrual cup let’s talk about choices. First, I went through a multitude of reviews on a variety of cups. I personally use the Diva Cup and love it! It seems to have the highest reviews and most consistent users. There is one thing; if you have a short cervix it might be a little too long for you (the Diva Cup is the exact same length as my prefered tampon). You can ask your OB-GYN if this is the case, or you can get to know yourself a little better and if you can feel your cervix with just one finger you are better off trying the Lunette Cup, it is slightly shorter and has the best reviews for shorter bodied menstrual cups. Some women turn their menstrual cup inside out, so the tip isn’t poking them (from my experience this works, but be careful not to place the cup too far in, because it can be difficult grasping a smooth base and you may need to use your vaginal muscles to push it out), or they trim the tip without cutting into the base. If you get a menstrual cup and don’t like it, don’t be afraid to try another one; come on, in the long run you will still be saving money and making a healthier life choice.
After you purchase your menstrual cup you need to know how to use it. Well, I will be honest – it does take a little more effort than using a tampon and you will definitely become more comfortable with your lady parts. I know your first thought is, how is it going to fit? Well you roll it up (press down to fold in half, then bring folded sides together to form a U shape) and stick it into your vagina horizontally. Don’t push up vertically like you do with a tampon; instead imagine pushing towards your tail bone. Now for the part that gets a little personal. You will need to place your thumb and forefinger slightly in, on the ribbing of the cup and twist the cup until it fully opens. (Yes it will open, your vaginal cavity is meant to expand. Come on, women give birth all the time and, hmm… hmm… what is used to make the baby is bigger than this tiny cup.) To check to see if it is open, I like to feel it, just make sure the end feels round and not closed in. Having it fully open will give you a seal and allow your menstrual cup to work properly. It might help to insert it after running it through water if you are having a light day (Hint: take a small bottle of water into public restrooms to both clean and insert your cup easier). To remove the cup make sure you grab high enough (about half way) to break the seal before pulling the menstraul cup all the way out, this will prevent the top ridge from causing you discomfort. When you clean your cup just wipe it with toilet paper, or if available, run it under water. You want to try to make sure the four holes at the top edge of the cup are clear, so a good seal can form. When your monthly cycle is over you can either wash your menstrual cup with non-oil based soap, or as I like to do,sanitize it by boiling it for 5 to 10 minutes; silicone is not affected by heat.
I would also recommend keeping a menstrual cup in your emergency survival bag or camping bag, this way you don’t have to worry about having tampons or pads on hand, bloody trash building up, or lack of a working toilet in case of an emergency.
There you have it! A menstrual cup isn’t a scary concept and having a period can be made easier, healthier and less expensive by their use. Are you willing to make the change? If so what are your questions and concerns? For those using a menstrual cup, what advice do you have for new users?
The DivaCup Model 2 Menstrual CupBlossom Menstrual Cup Is Better Than Diva Cup Hands Down! Say No to Tampons. Get Blossom Cups for Menstrual (Small, Blue)Lunette Menstrual Cup – Violet – Model 1 for Light to Medium Menstruation – Natural Alternative for Tampons and Sanitary Napkins
Resources:
http://divacup.com/how-it-works/care-and-cleaning/
http://divacup.com/how-it-works/sizing/
http://www.dowcorning.com/content/publishedlit/01-1113-01.pdf
http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Safety/AlertsandNotices/PatientAlerts/ucm070003.htm
Next Step to Green Living: My Favorite Eco-Friendly Products
Next Health Tip: Soul Cleansing Saturday: My Struggle with Sugar and Diet Soda Addiction