Saturday, July 16, 2011

Vacuum Cleaner Tune-up

A vacuum cleaner is a key piece in your cleaning arsenal and a good investment in maintaining a clean and healthy home. Here are a few simple things you can do anually to extend the life of your vacuum.
NOTE: Always unplug your vacuum before working on it and check your manufacturer’s guide! (See links below)
1. Empty dirt cup/bag/canister. Dirt cups can usually be washed with a mild detergent.
2. Remove filters and clean or replace. Clogged filters can drastically reduce suction power. HEPA filters cannot be cleaned and must be replaced.
3. Remove brush bar(s) and clean. A brush bar that is matted with strings, pet hair, and other debris is very ineffective. The easiest method to clean the brush bar is to snip along the matted material with a pair of sharp scissors and remove it.
4. Inspect the brush belt to ensure there are no tears or signs of wear. A brush belt that snaps mid-vacuuming can do some serious damage- to you and the vacuum! Most manufacturers recommend you replace the belt annually to ensure optimal performance.
5. Wipe down exterior with a damp cloth, clean attachments with mild soap and water.

Bissell: http://www.bissell.com/how-to-videos/  (The videos on this site are very helpful for any brand.)

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Deals of the week 7/11/11

Here are the best deals I found at Kroger this week. The 10-item Mega Event provided some great savings. Here's the scoop- when you buy (WYB) 10 participating items you save $5 instantly.

OreIda sweet potato fries $1.49
Pop secret popcorn $.49
Kraft 16 oz. dressing $.99
Colgate tootpaste FREE
Gorton's fishsticks $1.49
Driscoll's raspberries FREE
Dannon yogurt $.88


Spent $43, Saved $76 (63% savings)
Not pictured: Manager's Special cupcakes for $2.29



The fishsticks and fries will make a great meal ($3). I try to stick to $10 or less for dinner so this leaves plenty of room to add some fresh veggies or maybe a splurge dessert.

The 3 packages of raspberries were FREE after coupons- who ever said you can't buy healthy food with coupons??

Checkout http://www.happyhomemakercindy.com/ for all the Kroger deals and links to coupons. Happy saving!!!