Getting Rid of Ants Using Baby Powder

Ah, summer... A time for barbecues, poolside lounging and relaxation. As much as summertime is known for bringing out the best leisurely activities, it's also known for bringing the insect population into full swing - especially ants. 

When it comes to getting rid of ants, there are many theories out there about what works, what doesn't and what can be used safely.

Today we're going to share our tried-and-true method for getting rid of ants: Baby Powder.

Baby powder is safe and effective for getting rid of ants in you home. As long as the baby powder you are using contains talc, it will stop the ants in their tracks and force them to retreat. How it works or why is a mystery, but there are theories that it impairs the insect's sense of smell or touch. No matter what makes this method work, the important thing is that it does.

The best way to combat ants in your home is to sprinkle baby powder along their trail. This can be done where the flooring meets the baseboards and door jambs, along windowsills and any other horizontal surface the ants have to cross to get to their destination.

You can wipe up or sweep excess powder, but you should to keep a solid baby powder line on any surface the ants will be using to go back and forth between their nest and their food source.

After a few days the ants should be completely gone. Until then, enjoy the fresh scent of baby powder in your home.

Remember, the baby powder you use must contain talc or talcum powder. Regular baby powder doesn't seem to have as much of an effect on ants.

Clean Your Microwave In Less Than Five Minutes!

Today we're going to teach you a neat little trick to clean and deodorize your microwave in less than five minutes! 

While some of you may dutifully mop any up and spills and splatters as soon as they happen, we know that the majority of you may be more apt to make a mental note to clean the mess later. Unfortunately, by the time you're ready to clean your microwave you're looking at an all-out scouring session with the strongest degreaser you can get your hands on.

Using that method will work, but it will take more time and energy than necessary. Plus, who wants to cook their next meal in a microwave that smells like Simple Green? 

So put away the scouring pads and cleaning solutions - It's time to go a little more natural and a lot more effective:

Supplies -

• Microwave Safe Bowl
• 1/2 Cup Vinegar
• 1/2 Cup Water
• Sponge or Cleaning Rag

Directions -

• Mix your solution of vinegar and water into the bowl and place it into the microwave
• 'Cook' the mixture for 2 minutes on full power and then let it steam for 1 additional minute
• Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave and set it aside
• Remove your microwave plate (This should be washed by hand or in the dishwasher)
• Place your sponge or cleaning rag under running water and then thoroughly wring out excess moisture
• Start wiping the inside of your microwave - Start with the top and move your way down the sides, finishing with the bottom 

The entire process should take you about 5 minutes and - viola! You have a sparkling clean microwave. Sure, it may smell like vinegar now, but the good news is that vinegar dissipates much quicker than traditional cleaners. Just leave your microwave door open for a few minutes to air it out and you're ready to cook your next meal.