Beware The Scabies Mite!

Scabies is a condition that affects the skin making you itch uncontrollably. These little mites burrow under your skin and spread from person to person. It can affect the very young to the very old. It is passed along through close contact with the infected person, towels and linens that are shared, as well as their other belongings. The symptoms are pretty clear when you are afflicted with scabies. The itch is terribly annoying and uncomfortable and often strikes worse during the nighttime hours. The people that this itching affects most severely are children or the elderly. The first sign … Continue reading

The Best Way to Kill Germs

A study from the University of Michigan School of Public Health says that those liquid antibacterial soaps are no better at preventing infection than regular soaps! What’s worse — using antibacterial soaps may decrease the effectiveness of some antibiotics. Antibacterial soaps that contain triclosan (in liquid form) or triclocarban (in bar form) have been associated with antibiotic resistance. The study authors suggest skipping products labeled “antibacterial” and sticking to other cleaners. The best cleanser out there is good old soap and water. Scrub your hands for at least twenty seconds — including under your nails and between your fingers. Rinse … Continue reading

Home Week in Review: Nov. 26 – Dec. 2

Thanksgiving has come and gone and we have moved right into winter and Christmas. Here are this week’s articles at a glance: Remove Musty Smells Do you have some old furniture that has been stored too long in a basement or garage? It happens to the best of us… Household Germs: Try this Hand-washing Test Are you sure your hands are really clean? Dreaming of a Green Christmas? Some environmentally friendly ideas instead of wasted packing materials… More Ways to Recycle for the Holidays More ways to use stuff you already have around the house… Fighting Soap Scum Who doesn’t … Continue reading

Household Germs: Try this Hand-washing Test

You would probably be amazed to find out how many germs remain on our hands even after washing them. It’s not something we like to think about but the truth is many people rinse rather than wash, or only wash quickly and inefficiently. We also know that there are people who don’t wash up regularly, as we’ve seen them leave public restrooms without coming close to the sink. Running water helps to remove germs, so it’s good to keep your hands under running water for several seconds, rubbing them together. Even if soap is not available, the motion along with … Continue reading