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Buzz away
Problem:
It's mosquito season, but you are hesitant to use the repellents available in stores around your children for fear of harmful chemicals.
Solution:
Make your own mosquito repellent using natural oils. Here's a good recipe:
Combine the following in a spray bottle;
- 1/3 of a cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1/3 of a cup of vodka or witch hazel
- 5 drops of essential oil of citronella or eucalyptus oil
Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly and spray when necessary. natural insect repellents do not last as long as commercial products, so you should reapply frequently to get results. If you don't have a spray bottle, pour some solution onto a piece of cottonwool and dab it onto your baby's body.
TIP:
According to www.chemistry.about.com, floral and fruity scents attract mozzies, so try to avoid things like perfumes, hair products and facbric softeners that will leave you smelling sweet as a bouquet.
Smart nails
Problem:
You want to hang those family pictures but can't bang a nail into the wall without it costing a finger or a nail- or both!
Solution:
Eliminate the need to keep the nail straight between your thumb and finger, putting them in danger. Place the nail between the teeth of a comb to hold it steady and keep your fingers at a safe distance.
The bee's knees
Problem:
Crawling around gives your baby some great developmental exercise, but it can take its toll on your baby's knees and clothes, leaving behind bruises and dirt.
Solution:
Use an old pair of socks to create knee-protectors. Cut the foot off the sock and slip it over baby's leg onto the knee. Fold the sock over until you've created enough padding and a good fit.
