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Study: Market for Milk Alternatives is Growing Rapidly

Plant-based milk alternatives have been experiencing rapid market growth for several years. According to the market research company Nielsen, plant-based milk from soy, oats, almonds and the like increased by a full 47% between August 2019 and August 2020. It is thus well above the annual growth rates for alternative milk drinks of almost 10% forecast worldwide in 2019.

The proportion of oat milk rose particularly sharply in Germany during this period. According to Nielsen, with 115% it is not only one of the growth winners, but also one of the most popular plant-based milk drinks in Germany. Already more than half (53%) of the total sales in the milk alternatives category in Germany are made with oat milk.

The Society for Consumer Research (GfK) also confirms the “extremely dynamic” growth of milk alternatives. In their monthly report on the GfK household surveys, the market researchers from Nuremberg even describe this market as “crisis-resistant”.

Growth drivers are diverse and sustainable

The reasons for the strong and crisis-independent growth are manifold – just like the consumers themselves: “There are concerns about the ongoing climate change, the knowledge of the influence of one’s own diet, the desire to eat healthier and the horror at the conditions in factory farming several strong reasons. Apart from that, the milk alternatives also taste very delicious,” says Anna-Lena Klapp, an expert on plant-based milk alternatives and editor-in-chief of the plant-based milk report by the international nutrition organization ProVeg.

The environmental and climate balance of alternative products is pleasing. Plant-based milk alternatives are up to 95% better than cow’s milk in terms of greenhouse gas emissions and land and water use. Oat milk is particularly good at this. It also benefits from the short transport routes of the oats, because the grain can be grown well in our latitudes.

State punishes more climate-friendly milk alternatives

Despite the good balance in terms of health, climate, animal welfare and the environment, plant-based milk alternatives are still disadvantaged by politics. They are subject to the increased VAT rate of 19%. Cow’s milk, on the other hand, is only taxed at 7%: an indirect subsidization of a foodstuff that is harmful to the climate and the environment, which was recently criticized by the WBAE, the scientific expert committee of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food, as inappropriate for environmental and climate policy reasons. The committee calls for lower taxation for environmentally and climate-friendly, specifically plant-based foods. Food of animal origin, on the other hand, should no longer be subsidised, but taxed at 19%.

Rapid growth without the dairy industry?

Despite these hurdles, manufacturers of alternative dairy products are expecting rosy times: “Plant drinks currently still have a share of a good 10 percent of the entire milk market in Germany. However, we assume that there will be a drastic change in consumption in the next 10 years and that significantly more plant-based drinks will be consumed than cow’s milk,” says Helge Weitz, DACH manager at Oatly, the market leader for oat milk.

The classic dairy industry is still holding back with its own milk alternatives despite the good market prospects. So far, Alpro has dominated the German market, followed by the food trade with a large number of own brands in second place and the Swedish oat milk manufacturer Oatly in third place in the sales ranking. Although the market leader Alpro, which was taken over by global player Danone in 2017, is experiencing enormous growth, its competitors in the dairy-processing food industry are not following suit with dairy alternatives.

Possible reasons for the reluctance: Dairy companies fear pressure from their suppliers, the dairy farmers, who have been complaining about falling milk prices for decades and are keeping their heads above water, above all, with EU agricultural subsidies. Dairy processing companies themselves also benefit from the low milk prices because they increase the margins of their dairy products.

Consumption of cow’s milk is declining

The sale of both fresh milk and UHT milk is declining in Germany. In the past year alone, sales of fresh milk have fallen by 3.5% and UHT milk by 6%. However, instead of taking up the trend towards promising, climate-friendly and animal-friendly milk alternatives and bringing vegan milk alternatives onto the market, the dairy industry resorts to well-known defense mechanisms.

With the help of an online portal, the dairy industry is planning to regain control of information about cow’s milk and milk-like products. According to the Lebensmittelzeitung, several million euros are currently being collected from those involved in the dairy industry. At the same time, lobbyists from the agricultural and dairy industries in the EU Parliament have achieved that plant-based dairy products can no longer be called plant-based “milk” or vegan “cheese”. What is new is that designations such as “Yoghurt type” or “Butter” alternative are no longer permitted. The argument of the agricultural and dairy industry lobby, which wants to avert unwanted competition with the campaign: Otherwise, consumers would not be able to distinguish plant-based milk alternatives from cow’s milk products.

No customer confuses scouring or coconut milk with cow’s milk

Advocates of a sustainable diet see this argument as a pretense. They argue: Nobody would think of cow’s milk when they saw scouring milk or coconut milk. Jasmijn de Boo, Vice-President of ProVeg, cannot understand the action of the EU Parliament: “It is in direct contradiction to the declared goals of the European Union in the international Green Deal and Farm-to-Fork strategy, the turnaround towards a more sustainable and healthier food system.” Livestock farming is responsible for around 16% of all greenhouse gas emissions generated worldwide. Alternatives to animal products should therefore not be blocked, but encouraged.

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Sweet Revolution – Stand Up for Fair Cocoa!

From biscuits to bars to pralines, the selection of chocolate products is huge, as is the demand: consumers in Europe eat around nine kilograms per capita and per year. Often without knowing the questionable conditions under which cocoa is grown. To change that, Fairtrade is launching the Sweet Revolution, a protest campaign for fair cocoa. Join us!

In everyday life, many chocolate lovers think more about the calorie content of their favorite bar of chocolate than about the origin of the cocoa beans. Extreme poverty, exploitation and child labor are part of the bitter reality of cocoa cultivation. About 14 million people make their living from the production of cocoa – mainly smallholder families who cultivate less than five hectares of land. The small area under cultivation alone drives many of them into poverty, so that they can hardly live from cocoa cultivation alone. In addition, there are extreme price fluctuations: raw cocoa is traded on the world market in London and New York, where there is always speculation on prices. All too often the producers have to sell their cocoa below value.

West Africa, the heart of the chocolate industry

Most of the world’s cocoa – over 60 percent – comes from West Africa, especially from Ghana and the Ivory Coast. In both countries, exploitative child labor is a major problem. Experts from the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago (NORC) estimate that there are over two million children involved in cocoa cultivation. Child labor is more widespread today than it was ten years ago.

The chocolate industry has been promising for years that it will fight child exploitation. After all, who wants to enjoy chocolate for which children are sent to the fields instead of to school?

Cacao cultivation: hard work that hardly pays off

One of the main causes of exploitative child labor is the far too low income. Cocoa producers in Ivory Coast earn just 67 cents on average per capita and per day. This is the result of a study by Fairtrade International. The study not only calculates what farmers actually earn, but also what they would have to get in order to receive a living income. In other words, an income that covers the cost of food, water, housing, education, health, transport, clothing and other essential needs – including saving for emergencies. For this, the workers would have to receive at least 2.13 euros per capita and per day.

Even Fairtrade-certified cocoa farmers still get too little. In order to benefit from fair trade, cooperatives usually have to sell at least 30 to 40 percent of their goods under fair trade conditions. Although the market for fair trade cocoa has developed enormously in recent years, demand should increase significantly. Fairtrade cocoa currently has a market share of 17 percent.

You think that’s not enough? Then join us and stand up for fair cocoa.

Take part and win until December 6th

Together with Fairtrade you can support the people who pick the cocoa beans for your chocolate. In an online competition, Fairtrade is looking for the best protest slogans for fair cocoa enjoyment. With just a few clicks and a little creativity, you can become an online activist for sustainable cocoa yourself. It’s that easy:

Get creative and design your message for more fairness in the cocoa sector alone, with your friends, acquaintances, at school, in a club or at university.
Share your creative protest slogan via social media.
Activate your environment and collect votes for your slogan. The slogan with the most votes wins.

The internationally renowned street artist Boogie interprets the ten best slogans on a protest wall, the Wall of Fair. With this we will make your protest against unfair cocoa trade on December 10th, the day of human rights, heard in the Berlin government district. Boogie even pays a personal visit to the most creative slogan author and creates an individual work of art live on site.

Second and third place winners can also look forward to smaller boogie artworks of their own protest slogan. Fairtrade surprise boxes packed with fair chocolate products are raffled off for places four to ten.

Dah Oha – cocoa farmer, mother and power woman

Stories like that of the cocoa farmer Dah Oho Gboklela from Gogoko, a small village about 50 kilometers from the Ivorian coast, show the difference that fair trade can make for producers: Due to the early death of his father, Dah Oho has to take responsibility early on. Because the debt money is too expensive, she begins an apprenticeship as a hairdresser before taking over the family’s small cocoa field together with her brother. When she marries, she is granted her own piece of land – not a matter of course in the Ivory Coast, where only 20 percent of landowners are women. She joins the fair trade cooperative ECAKOOG, gets more money for her cocoa and gets tips on how to fertilize properly. This increases earnings and thus earnings. With the help of the Fairtrade premium money, the cooperative also supports its members financially in financing school fees.

For every tonne of cocoa that Dah Oho sells under fair trade conditions, she receives a fixed minimum price, which must not be undercut. Not even if market prices collapse. The minimum prices cover the costs of sustainable production and enable necessary investments in new plants, crop protection or equipment. However, the money is not enough to secure the existence of the family. Like many cocoa producers, Dah Oho can only sell part of their harvest on fair terms. The remaining cocoa is traded on the exchange at the prices specified there. A business that is hardly worthwhile, as the mother of four children explains. She wishes for a better future for her children away from the cocoa trade. They should go to school, become civil servants and later not have to go to the fields – at least not when prices are so low.

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Create Tips for Cleaning According to Plan and Cleaning Plan

Creating a cleaning plan and cleaning according to plan can be a great help when cleaning the house. Because cleaning is often one of many tasks that have to be done. A plan can provide orientation and create meaningful processes. This saves you valuable time.

Today’s everyday life is characterized by many obligations. Many have to take care of their work, children, and household. There is also leisure time planning. If you are busy with many things, it can happen that you can no longer keep up with cleaning. That’s why we have tips for cleaning according to plan.

A weekly cleaning schedule makes work easier

Cleaning plans sound annoying and stuffy. But in the family, they can relieve parents. And in flat-sharing communities, they can contribute to conflicts or conflict avoidance. Accordingly, they mainly offer advantages and can simplify cleaning. So that cleaning and keeping your apartment or house clean does not get too much for you, we will give you an overview of cleaning according to plan. This will help you to master the challenges of household chores.

Create a cleaning plan and create meaningful processes

Many tasks await you in the household. There is everything from washing and drying laundry to tidying up. In addition, there is vacuuming and wiping the floors, cleaning the bathroom, and cleaning the kitchen. Garbage also has to be taken out regularly. And every now and then you need to remove carpet stains or clean the mattress. And all of this is best done by the way. With so many tasks involved in cleaning the house, you should create a sensible cleaning schedule. And give you a good overview.

1) Assign different cleaning tasks to weekdays

There are many tips for a quick house cleaning. So you should prioritize and do different tasks on different days of the week. So you get a little done every day instead of cleaning your entire free weekend. So use Monday to take out the garbage, Tuesday to clean the bathroom, and so on.

2) Observe the correct order

The right order can save you double work. Especially if you like to do everything in one day. But even if you decide to do a different task of the cleaning schedule every day. So you should always work from top to bottom. You should also start tidying up your living space. And then clean the bathroom and kitchen. Finally, you should quickly wipe the floor clean. You should also vacuum and dust before mopping.

3) Specify the frequency of work in the cleaning schedule

There are some household chores that need to be done on a daily basis. In contrast, other jobs need to be done less often. You can use your cleaning plan to record which tasks have to be done daily, weekly, or monthly. For example, descaling the washing machine or cleaning the baking tray, and cleaning the refrigerator can be done monthly. And cleaning your mattress can be done every six months.

4) Scheduled cleaning with music

With the exhausting work in the household and the many necessary tasks, music can make the whole thing more bearable. Because good music lifts the spirits. You can also turn on an exciting audiobook or your favorite podcast for cleaning. So the time flies by. Also, read our bathroom cleaning tips.

5) Cleaning schedule template and apps

With all these necessary tasks, which can only arise when tidying up, cleaning and cleaning, you have to keep an overview. So that you can cope with all this well, it makes sense to draw up a household or cleaning plan. If you don’t want to go to the trouble of creating a plan yourself or don’t know-how, an online cleaning plan template can help you. Or check out one of the many apps for cleaning by schedule.

6) Have the right cleaning supplies ready

The cleaning utensils are the most important thing in order to be able to deliver good work. If you handle bad or insufficient utensils, don’t be surprised if the latter result doesn’t look like the desired result. Therefore, before you start cleaning the house, you should check whether you have all the cleaning equipment and household items at home. Because there are different cleaning options for different purposes.

For example, you should keep in mind that different floors need different cleaning. To clean wooden floors, a damp wipe and now and then a light care glaze is sufficient. In contrast, you can use a lot of water to clean stone floors and tiles.

7) Buy cleaning supplies in good time

Thorough house cleaning costs time and money. For this reason, it is advisable to pay attention to special offers for cleaning agents a few weeks in advance. You always get good deals in discounter chains. And special cleaning cloths from different manufacturers are also perfect helpers for cleaning cupboards. And if you want to protect the environment when doing housework, then you should look into a healthy food store or use the usual and natural home remedies.

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Tips for Removing Wax Stains and Candle Wax

Tips on how to use heat from an iron or stovetop to remove candle wax or wax stains from clothing, carpet, or other fabrics.

Candle wax is always annoying on textiles of all kinds. Especially in black clothes. Candle wax is also not water-soluble and cannot be washed out. We have put together some tips for you so that you can easily remove the annoying wax.

Remove candle wax with an iron

First, you should let the candle wax dry out completely and carefully scrape off the large pieces. Then you can place newspaper, blotting paper, a simple paper handkerchief, or a kitchen towel on the candle stain and then iron the whole thing over with an iron. If this gets dirty, you should clean the iron. The candle wax becomes hot due to the heat, binds to the paper, and detaches from the garment.

Remove wax with the hotplate

You can also use a stovetop to remove candle wax from your clothing. Here is a step-by-step guide to removing the wax using a hotplate. In addition, note tips for removing spinach stains and removing cream stains from textiles.

  1. The first thing you need to do is set a stovetop to a low setting.
  2. Place the piece of newspaper or kitchen paper on the stovetop.
  3. Now you can press the garment onto the paper from above.
  4. You now have to rub and rotate the wax stain on the paper.
  5. Repeat this process until all of the candle wax has soaked into the paper.
  6. All textiles or clothing can then be washed normally again.

If some wax gets on the stovetop during the process, you should be careful. When cleaning the hob, there are a few things to keep in mind to avoid scratches. Candle wax is usually a nuisance, but it can also come in handy to untie a stuck zipper, for example.

Remove wax from jars

Candle wax can be easily removed from glasses. For example, if you used tea lights or lanterns in small candle jars. You will find step-by-step instructions for this in the following video. In addition, note our tips for removing cream stains from textiles.

Remove wax stains from the carpet

A specific method is required to remove wax from the carpet. Above all, patience is required, because before you can start removing the stain, the wax should be completely cool and hard. Here is a guide to removing candle wax from a carpet:

  1. You can begin wax removal once the wax has been set on the carpet. This is important because we can only work with solid wax.
  2. Now you can scrape off as much wax as possible with a sharp knife. Meanwhile or afterward you can simply vacuum up the wax crumbs with a vacuum cleaner.
  3. Finally, you can place a piece of newspaper or kitchen paper on the candle stain and iron it over the paper with a warm iron.
  4. The heat liquefies the wax residue and can be absorbed by the cloth. Repeat this process until no more wax is stuck to the paper. You can throw away the newspaper afterward.
  5. Avoid candle wax from dripping candles

Especially in autumn and winter, many people like to light candles in their homes often, as they spread a cozy and warm atmosphere. But then it happens more often than you find wax stains on furniture or the tablecloth because the candles have dripped. To avoid this candle wax, soak the candle in salt water for 24 hours before lighting it. Because candles that have been treated in this way no longer drip and you can really enjoy the candlelight. Also, note the simple instructions for making candles yourself and how to remove wax stains on wood.

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Wash and Care for Handkerchiefs

Buy and washcloth handkerchiefs with simple methods. Because with these wipes you are using an environmentally friendly alternative. In addition, cleaning handkerchiefs is easy and handkerchiefs are hygienic when cleaned properly.

Very few people choose the tissue alternative. Because many believe it is not hygienic. But with the right cleaning and care, handkerchiefs made of fabric are a good alternative to paper handkerchiefs.

Why should you use cloth towels?

If you want to make a contribution to environmental protection, you can start by using handkerchiefs. Because the usual paper handkerchiefs are usually packaged in plastic and are produced with a high expenditure of energy and resources. It doesn’t help much if the paper towels are made from recycled paper. So you can use tissue handkerchiefs and protect the environment. In addition, cloth towels have the advantage that they last a long time.

Are handkerchiefs hygienic?

It is not true that the tissues for blowing your nose are unhygienic. Because the cloth handkerchiefs are hygienic, provided you change them often enough. You should also clean the clothes properly for sufficient hygiene so that bacteria and viruses are killed. In addition, you should not just toss them in the laundry basket with other clothes unless you also wash them at high temperatures. Consequently, a cloth handkerchief can be just as hygienic as a paper handkerchief. Also, note our tips against colds.

“The risk of cross-contamination is considered to be rather low. However, higher washing temperatures and stronger detergents are recommended because rhinoviruses, which cause colds, are quite persistent. Therefore, in the event of an acute infection, a paper handkerchief can be useful when you are out and about.”

Mr. Glassl from the Body Care Industry Association on the use of handkerchiefs

Tips for washing handkerchiefs

Your handkerchiefs can be easily washed with three simple methods. Regular cleaning of the clothes is important. This way you guarantee that the clothes remain hygienically clean. Consequently, they become a good and environmentally friendly alternative to paper handkerchiefs. Please also note our article on ordering ecological natural fashion on the Internet.

1) Cleaning the washing machine

To keep the handkerchiefs hygienic, you should wash them in the washing machine at least 60 degrees. You should also use detergents that contain bleach. As these have a higher washing effect. A washing cycle at 90 degrees is also possible. Please also note our tips for doing laundry.

2) Wash handkerchiefs in a water bath

 

If you don’t wash often at such high temperatures, you can also clean the clothes in a different way. To do this, put the used towels in a heat-resistant bowl. Then boil water in a kettle and put it in the bowl. After you have left everything to work for 15 minutes, you can rinse the towels with cold water and let them dry. You can also clean artificial plants in the water bath.

3) Clean handkerchiefs in saltwater

Cleaning handkerchiefs effectively is actually quite simple. If you want to clean the tissue handkerchiefs, soak them in saltwater for about 12 hours (e.g. overnight) before washing. Then they get really clean again. Also, read more interesting facts about the household remedy salt.

Buy handkerchiefs or make them yourself

Now, where do you get cloth handkerchiefs from? You can either sew them yourself from old scraps of fabric. It is best to use leftover cotton or linen for this. You can also buy handkerchiefs online.

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Home Remedies for Cleaning Windows Properly without Streaks

Clean windows properly with simple home remedies without streaks. To ensure that you can clean your windows effectively and quickly in the future, use our instructions and tips for window polishing. Then you avoid streaks and they become sparkling clean.

Cleaning windows seems to be a science in itself. You invest a lot of time and effort in cleaning the windows, but as soon as the sun shines on the panes, you see unsightly streaks on the freshly cleaned and clean windows.

Window cleaning made easy

Are you also tired of having to constantly and laboriously clean windows? And before you know it, are there new stains on the disc? This is often unavoidable, especially in bad weather. Despite expensive means and special devices for cleaning windows, there are still streaks on the glass. When the sun shines, you will see it even more! It is usually not dirt at all that is responsible for these streaks or streaks on the windows, but the lime contained in the cleaning water. Therefore, we have simple tips on how to get the problem with the calcareous cleaning water under control. All you need are natural home remedies. Or you use a window vacuum to clean windows.

Home remedies for cleaning windows

Window cleaning is always a new challenge. How do I clean my windows without streaks or other residues later being visible on the window? There is a myriad of different cleaning agents on the market and, of course, microfiber cloths for streak-free cleaning. But this not only means a lot of effort but also considerable costs. Therefore, it is better to use the following home remedies to clean your windows. Also, note natural home remedies for cleaning the kitchen.

1) Vinegar for cleaning the window panes

To clean the window without leaving streaks, use the home remedy vinegar essence. To do this, add about 1 cup of essence per liter of water and clean the window panes with this solution as usual. Then wipe the window dry. You can also ensure a clear view of windows that appear unclear by wiping them with a cloth and a few drops of table vinegar. And if a few splatters of wall paint get on the window panes during renovation work, then simply remove them with table vinegar.

2) Use of Lemon Essence

You can also use lemon essence to avoid calcareous cleaning water and thus prevent streaks. Accordingly, add about 1 cup of lemon essence per liter of water. Then clean the window panes according to the instructions. As a result, you save yourself a long time cleaning and polishing the windows.

3) Tea to clean the window

Black tea is well suited for window cleaning. This is because it contains tannins that can dissolve dirt and grease. So take two bags of black tea, boil them in a cup and let it steep for 10 minutes. Then add it to the cleaning water and use it to clean the windows as usual and wipe everything dry. Also, read our tips for cleaning according to plan.

4) Dishwashing liquid as an environmentally friendly cleaner

Dish soap is also suitable for cleaning your windows without leaving streaks. To do this, use normal detergent with a neutral pH value in the cleaning water. Because this is a very environmentally friendly solution and you can protect the environment in the household. In addition, you always have washing-up liquid at hand and it is cheap. A soft cloth and a few drops of vegetable oil will also ensure cleanliness. In both cases, repolishing is necessary.

5) Clean windows with ammonia

The window panes will stay cleaner longer if you wipe them with a mixture of 30 ml water, 70 ml glycerine, and 3-4 drops of ammonia solution after cleaning. Liquid ammonia is also known as ammonia water and is considered a tried and tested cleaning agent. It helps against calcification and is often used to clean discolored joints. Its use for effective toilet cleaning is also recommended.

6) Clean windows without streaks with spirit

Add a dash of spirits to lukewarm water. Then moisten and clean the panes as normal with a cloth and then wipe the pane dry again. This method is quick and thorough. The alcohol in the water saves you the hassle of polishing and expensive additives. To give the window panes a nice shine, they are finally wiped again with spirit water (3-5 drops per 1 liter of water). Alcohol can also be replaced with fruit water or vodka. In addition, note other tips on using alcohol as a home remedy.

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7 Effective Tips for Wiping the Dust Properly

Dusting is annoying and takes a lot of time. In addition, the dust is back faster than you can see. Therefore wipe with a system in the future and heed clever tips for avoiding dust. We’ll show you how and how often you should dust.

Dusting is one of the most annoying household chores. Because as soon as you’ve eliminated him, he’s back. Everyone agrees. However, there is disagreement as to how best to remove the dust. That’s why we have an overview of all the options.

Dust with what?

Regular dusting is a must. Because dust accumulates in the apartment far too quickly. And a dusty home quickly looks dirty and uncomfortable. In addition, house dust can be particularly problematic for people with a house dust allergy and cause health problems. So sooner or later it will be time to devote yourself to this unpleasant housework. But what is the best way to wipe dust? Here, too, opinions differ as to whether dry or wet dusting is better. Or whether microfiber cloths are suitable or not? We present all the options so that you can decide for yourself what will help you fight the dust best.

1) Damp cotton cloth against dust

One method of dusting is using a damp cotton cloth. To do this, moisten the cloth with a little lukewarm water and wring it out well. Then use it to wipe dusty surfaces and corners. The damp cloth absorbs the dust and the moisture holds it. But some critical voices say that this method only spreads the dust. Also, note tips for removing dust stains from walls.

2) Microfiber cloth to wipe the dust

The critics of damp cotton cloths prefer using microfiber cloths for dusting. Because these absorb and hold dust and dirt particles in both dry and wet conditions. Comparatively, little dust is whirled up. But microfiber towels can scratch sensitive surfaces, which is why some experts advise against using them. Some also criticize that the wipes contain microplastics, which then get into the environment. So if you want to protect the environment in the household, use a different method.

3) Use of special disposable dust cloths

The use of special disposable dust cloths is also convenient. Because they are made of synthetic fibers and have a dust-attracting effect. As a result, a lot of dust gets caught when dusting. However, microscopically small plastic particles can also be contained here and released. In addition, they are thrown away after a single use and thus create a lot of waste.

4) The classic duster for cleaning

A very traditional way of dusting is to use a feather duster. And when used correctly, the feather duster is an effective help against dust. To do this, you must charge the electrostatic duster before use by rubbing it several times. The charge then magically attracts dust and dirt. You can also reach hard-to-reach corners with the feather duster. The classic ostrich feather duster is just as effective.

5) Paintbrush for dusting books

To remove dust from books or angled objects or furniture, do not use a damp cloth. Because books should not be wiped with a damp cloth, as this is not good for the paper. Instead, use a brush to remove dust and brush everything with it. The paintbrush can also do a good job of dusting cracks and uneven surfaces on objects such as candlesticks or furniture. If your vacuum cleaner has an attachable dusting brush or a fine nozzle, you can also use this to effectively remove the dust. In addition, read how you can remove cobwebs with simple means.

6) Dust the heater regularly

Even heaters are real dust catchers. In addition, dusty heaters can consume a lot of energy and electricity. To save electricity, you should therefore regularly dust off the heating. It is necessary before the heating season at the latest. Then take a damp cloth and clean the radiator and the space behind it.

7) Use antistatic cleaning spray

If you want to delay dusting a bit, use anti-static spray. Because you can spray that on the most important surfaces. The anti-static cleaner then prevents or significantly reduces the re-deposition of dust. You can get the spray in drugstores or online.

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Sewing for Beginners: Learn to Sew Yourself Now

Now learn to sew yourself as a great leisure activity. We all love shopping for clothes. But the dresses and blouses available in stores are usually not unique. Therefore it is worth starting. Because with lots of ideas for sewing, sewing can also be fun for beginners.

Although there is a wide range of clothing choices, it can still happen at parties where two people wear the same outfit. Such a situation is uncomfortable for many. You ensure more individuality if you sew your outfit yourself. As a result, we have collected tips for you on how to learn to sew.

Does every household have a sewing machine?

It’s hard to believe that not even a hundred years ago, a sewing machine was part of the basic equipment in many households and that sewing was as common as working with a computer today. And yet, especially in the younger generations, there are not many who have mastered the craft. But that too is slowly changing. The value of craftsmanship is gradually being rediscovered.

Sewing made easy

Sewing is a great hobby for all ages. You can get inspiration for your dress patterns on the internet or let your creativity run free. Then start with test cuts and trimmings. Whether classic, short, long, modern, or rather playful and tricky, in the end, the first copies can be looked at well. Once you get the hang of the sewing machine, you’re good to go.

And with a little patience and practice, many beautiful and light dresses can be made. Because a lot of things can also be easily implemented by sewing beginners. First of all, get instructions and various patterns. And YouTube tutorials can also help you to design and sew your very own dream garment. In addition, a tailor’s dummy can be helpful for sewing yourself.

1) Different suppliers for patterns

Sewing patterns in particular are a great help for beginners. Once you’ve used them a few times, sewing yourself will be much easier. Patterns are paper templates that you can use to sew the individual parts of the clothing properly. You can purchase patterns or download them free of charge from the following providers. As a result, you can also use it to make great Christmas or Easter gifts yourself.

  • Diverse patterns at Stoffen.de.
  • Affordable sewing tutorials from Makerist.
  • Patterns of all kinds at Pattydoo.
  • Free sewing patterns on Buttinette’s blog.
  • Great ideas and patterns at Sewing Pattern Database.
  • Free sewing patterns and tutorials at CrazyPatterns.
  • Simple cuts and creative ideas of fabric and style.

2) Know fabrics and learn to sew

Since knowing about fabrics and their properties is also an advantage when learning to sew, you should be well informed beforehand. To help you make the right choice for your garment, we have put together an overview of the most important fabrics.

3) Take a sewing class for beginners

If there is no one in your immediate area who can teach you how to sew, there are beginner sewing courses available in many cities. These are usually affordable and you get to know like-minded people. Then you know the most important tricks for sewing. And patching small holes in clothes is no longer a problem. This can also be a good start for you if you don’t like learning with videos from the Internet.

4) Techniques for sewing

There are a variety of techniques you can use to sew. Be it types of stitches, methods of cleaning up fabric edges, or simply a correct method of threading a thread. For all this, there are different basics that you should look at. Certain basic knowledge is essential for sewing yourself. So here are the two most important techniques. Because with clothes you sew yourself, you can also emphasize you’re natural beauty and strengthen your self-confidence.

Sewing by hand

You can sew many things by hand. For this, you need a basic knowledge of techniques. A very common type of stitch is the mattress stitch or ladder stitch. Check out the video below for a comprehensive guide on how to use this method.

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Remedy for Fluffy Sweaters

Simply remove lint. Garments made from natural materials pill quickly and this gives the clothing an unkempt appearance. Therefore, now use means against fluffy sweaters. This makes removing lint from the sweater child’s play.

Easy ways to remove lint

Anyone who likes to wear woolen clothing knows the problem of fluff formation, also known as pilling. Regardless of whether the garment is made of sheep’s wool or cashmere, at some point, unsightly fluff will form where the material rubs against each other or other garments. However, there are a few sweater lint removal methods you can use. You will also learn how to properly wash and care for your woolen clothing.

1) Remove lint from sweaters with a roller

If you are looking for a suitable remedy for fluffy sweaters, the classic is a lint roller. You can get these in drugstores or online. You can choose between different variations. You can either use a sticky lint roller or a reusable brush. This also effectively removes animal hair.

2) Simply remove lint with tape

If your favorite piece of clothing has lint and you don’t have a lint roller handy, use duct tape. To do this, wrap the tape around your hand so that the sticky side is facing out. Then gradually go over the fluffy sweater. This works best with light fluff or to remove long hair from the carpet.

3) Using a razor against pills

You can also remove lint with a wet razor. To do this, wet your razor and then gently run over the pills on your sweater. In the video below you can see how well different methods work. The method with the wet razor performs best. But always test carefully on a small area before you really get started. You can also buy special lint shavers online.

4) Dryer as a remedy for fluffy sweaters

If you have a dryer for drying laundry at home, you can use it to effectively remove lint. For this, you have to put the clothes in the dryer. Then set the ‘ventilate’ program. After about 20 minutes, the beautiful pieces are lint-free again.

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Lifestyle

9 Natural Home Remedies for Cleaning Tiles

Cleaning tiles in the bathroom and kitchen is not difficult. Various natural home remedies can help you with cleaning and ensuring shiny tiles. Since dirty tiles and joints are unsightly and unhygienic, we will show you the best tips and home remedies for cleaning tiles.

You can avoid tile cleaners

Turn your dirty tiles into clean and shiny tiles. So try natural home remedies to clean your tiles. Then you can do without expensive chemical cleaning agents in the future and prevent the tile surface from being scratched. You can also make your household more sustainable.

You don’t need expensive special tile cleaners from the drugstore to clean tiles quickly. Because tiles are considered to be easy to care for. So you can safely use home remedies. Also because many cleaners can be far too aggressive for the tiles and joints. In addition, many home remedies are cheaper and are at least as good for cleaning tiles and making them shiny.

Home remedies for cleaning tiles

Since many chemical cleaning agents can be expensive and aggressive, we have a collection of grandma’s old home remedies here. These household tips for cleaning tiles in the bathroom, in the kitchen, and wherever tiles are laid will help you to clean your tiles very easily in the future. In addition, note tips and home remedies for grout cleaning.

1) Vinegar for cleaning tiles

The well-known household remedy vinegar is very good for getting tiles sparkling clean. All you have to do is add a dash of vinegar to a lukewarm bucket of water. Then wipe the tiles in the bathroom or kitchen. This tile cleaner is very suitable for wall and floor tiles.

2) Cleaning with a spirit cloth

This method is particularly suitable for removing greasy films on the tiles. Because the alcohol simply removes grease and other unwelcome stains on the tile. In addition, old sticker residues can also be tackled with alcohol. To prepare a tile cleaner for the bathroom and kitchen, simply use spirit diluted with water (1 shot of spirit in 1 liter of water) or, in the case of very heavy soiling, use spirit directly. Since alcohol has a very unique smell, it is recommended to open the windows wide.

3) Clean tiles with a rinse aid

When it’s time to clean the tiles in the bathroom and kitchen again, you can simply use a rinse aid. Put this on a cloth and use it to clean the tiled wall. You can also use hair shampoo for cleaning. So you can scrub the walls clean while showering. Also, see our article on cleaning stainless steel and removing stains from stainless steel.

4) Liquid ammonia for clean tiles

You can also use ammonia water or ammonia to treat dull tiles. To do this, rub the tiled walls with the ammonia solution. Then rinse it off with lukewarm water. So your tiles should be clean again quickly and easily. You can also use it to effectively clean other things, such as silver cutlery. You can also get this cleaning agent in the drugstore or on the Internet.

5) Clean tiles with the steam jet

To loosen stubborn dirt, you can use the steam from a steam jet to do the preparatory work. Or achieve this effect by taking another hot shower before cleaning the bathroom. Because the steam-atomized bathroom is ideal for thorough cleaning and ensures shiny tiles. Also, read our tips for cleaning clogged drains.

6) Linseed oil for shiny tiles

The healthy linseed oil is not only an excellent home remedy for psoriasis but also gives your tiles a lasting shine. To do this, clean the tiles with a cloth dabbed with linseed oil. Then rinse it off with lukewarm water. Now the tiles should shine again.

7) Remove limescale with lemon essence

You can also use lemon essence to clean a lot of limescale dirt and faded tiles. To do this, you have to dilute it with water (roughly in a ratio of 1:3). Then let the mixture act briefly on the tiles. You can then wipe with clear water. Or just use lemon slices. Vinegar essence is also suitable for cleaning chalky tiles. However, vinegar or lemon essence should not be used on marble. Other high-quality ceramics could also be attacked by the aggressive acid, so proceed carefully.

8) Clean tiles with salt and turpentine

If you want to clean your yellowed tiles, you can do so with salt and turpentine. So mix these two ingredients together. Then rub the yellowed tiles with it. Because that helps wonderfully against yellowed stains. You can also use turpentine to remove grease stains from wooden objects.

9) Disinfect tiles with chlorine

Cleaning and disinfecting tiles are done with an application of chlorine in the bathroom and kitchen. But you should only use the chlorine in a diluted state. Also, you should wear gloves. But you should keep in mind that chlorine can attack and destroy the cementitious joints between the tiles over time. Therefore only clean tiles with it. In addition, note great ways to beautify old tiles.

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