Thursday, August 11, 2011

Few of my Favorite Things...

I love products!  Cleaning products, health and beauty...all of it.  When I find a good product, it takes a lot to persuade me that there is something better.  Like Cascade, for instance.  There have been times that I have tried something cheaper, only to be very disappointed.  I also hate spending money on something that disappoints me.  That is why I thought that Id share some of my favorite products from time to time, so...I might be able to save someone some money.  And...was hoping that you would share also.

I'm going to start with the non gender stuff, so I don't bore my male readers to death.  When I get to the girly stuff, they can leave the page, or at least say they did. ;)

Cleaning Products:

I clean houses for my job, so...I've tried a lot of cleaning products.  Here's my take on them.

Yes, you can clean most anything with water, vinegar and baking soda.  But...It takes more time and more elbow grease.  So, if your time is worth more than your money, here's the stuff you'll enjoy.

    Kitchens: If you have a white sink, nothing works better than Commit cleanser to get the scratches out, de-grease and disinfect.  You can use anything on your stainless, but I like to finish with a swipe of

Weiman Stainless Steel Wipes It makes the sink shine and look brand new.  You can also use the spray and paper towel, but don't buy a cheaper brand!  I also use this on stainless steel appliances and buff with an old diaper or T-shirt.

If your stove is really dirty, spray with Windex and let it sit for a while.  The ammonia will loosen the yuck.  I also use Windex on windows and mirrors, of course. I've heard that you can make your own Windex, but...if the ratios are not just right...it will streak and frustrate you to death!  There are some cheaper brands that work also, but a lot that don't.

Counter tops.  Basically you want to clean and disinfect.  So, really depends on the type of counter that you have.  Best to use what the manufacturer recommends. Here are some things I like:  Granite, I clean with water and then spray with Windex to make it shine.  After a few cleanings, I will use furniture polish.  The polish doesn't stay on very long with all the use in the kitchen, but...it's pretty.  Laminate, I would use something like 409, Mr. Clean (diluted) or Clorox Clean up (for stains).  There is also a fabulous counter top cleaner from Mrs. Meyers.  I love the Basil scent.  It makes the whole kitchen smell wonderful and looks good on granite or any solid surface.  Just a little luxury item to brighten your day. :)

Bathrooms:
I use Mr. Clean at home because it's a good all around cleaning.  Cuts through soap scum and doesn't cost too much. On the other hand, you have to dilute it and put it in a spray bottle and is a little more work.  There are plenty good bathroom cleaners, but...look for the ones that cut soap scum and DON'T include bleach!  Don't get me wrong, bleach has its purpose.  It just doesn't need to be sprayed all over the bathroom while you're breathing in all the air in a small little space. I keep Clorox Clean up on hand for that occasional mildew issue.  I don't mind that bleach in toilet bowl cleaners, but toilet bowel cleaners are pretty much
uni-taskers and I prefer using multi-taskers.  Mr. Clean or any other cleaner does a fine job on your toilets.  If you want a product that smells awesome, try this one.

product image

Dusting:  I use an ostrich feather duster on nick knacks, pictures, furniture and objects.  You can find a great one at Target.  They have natural oils in them and they get into nooks and crannies.  I will then use furniture polish on wood furniture, but...only when it looks dry.

OK...if I missed something, just ask.  Now on to health and Beauty.  Don't leave yet Dad...I got some foot stuff for you!

1. HeeltasticHeeltastic Foot Cream
I have very dry skin and this stuff is fantastic!  Makes my feet feel like a baby's bottom.  It doesn't have the greatest smell, but I suppose that is so men will use it too. It runs around $10 and well worth the price.

2. I get corns occasionally from wearing shoes that rub my pinky toe into the toe next to it, that has no name. Very sad for him.  If he were a finger, he would be a "ring" finger!  But, no...he's a toe, without a name, unless you want to say the toe that had no roast beef.  I'm getting sidetracked.  Back to the subject.  This product is awesome for any hurting toes. They make these in several different brands and prices.  This price is not bad since you can cut the tubes and make several.  Also, you can wear them several times, depending on how stinky your feet get.  So...they are much more economical than buying those stick on pads. I would not suggest wearing them with open toed shoes, tough.  Kind of tacky.

3. For those times you want powder, but don't want to smell like a baby...
Gold Bond Ultimate Comfort Body Powder, charmomile - 10 ozThis stuff does the job and doesn't smell too strong.  I think Walmart also has a generic that compares to this and is just as great.

4. Lotions. I usually switch around a bunch, but...the name brand ones also work so much better.  Usually I find plenty on the clearance isles at Target or CVS.  I scoop them all up, so..I always have plenty.

5. A while back my hair started falling out and I started using Pantene's Beautiful Lengths.  I noticed less hair falling out, after just two weeks.

I also started taking GNC's

GNC Women's Hair, Skin, & Nails Program - GNC - GNCLove this stuff also!  I noticed a big difference in my skin also.  I've heard it helps acne, but...don't know about that.  I just notice that my hair, skin and nails look healthier.

OK...attention span is spent. Got to let this end.  I'm sure I will think of more things in the future.  Let me know your favorite products.  I would love to try them!

7 comments:

  1. Holy Guac! this is some helpful stuff you put in a lot of effort!! Just goes to show you love your blog followers!!

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  2. Oh Sheryl, we are so different in some areas. haha. I literally use NO products at all. I mean, I get Arm and Hammer Baking soda......but that is about it. haha

    Oh, and Borax sometimes.

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  3. Actually Diana, we're not that different. I am just older and have already went through my hippy stage! :0 he he he

    I suppose if I weren't cleaning 8 houses a week, with someone else buying the products, I might try baking soda again.

    Nah...who am I fooling!

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  4. 3 This is like the best post! You know so much about products and keep all your beauty secrets to yourself!! Sheesh. Wonderful momma!

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  5. Actually Ashley (say that 5 times fast)

    When I decided that I could no longer sit at the computer, I realized that I still had not got to the fun stuff! So, I will have to do another favorites things. Any suggestions?

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