Keeping your dogs safe from fleas and ticks can be an exhausting job. The constant scratching and biting can be tiring and unhealthy. Not only this, it can bring down the mood of your furry friend, affecting the whole household. Therefore, it is better to stay prepared in case of an unforeseen pest attack. This article talks about some effective and accessible natural remedies that will give you and your dogs some much-needed relief. Home remedies for fleas and ticks in dogs Natural oils Natural or essential oils must be diluted first, after which you can use them as a spray or a pre-bath rinse. Alternatively, you can dilute them with carrier oils and massage them into their coat. Whatever you do, make sure to get your vet’s approval beforehand. Garlic Garlic has various nutritional benefits apart from being an antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral agent. Don’t get too concerned about its strong odor. Add a small amount of crushed garlic to your pet’s food and watch this natural remedy work its magic. Vinegar Another natural remedy that is not only easily accessible but can double up as a flea and tick repellant for dogs is vinegar. You can dilute it with water and use it as a spray. Or, if your dog does not mind its taste, add very small amounts of it to their drinking water. Similarly, you can also make use of apple cider vinegar. While these are all commonly used natural remedies, some pet parents prefer trying medicated ointments or powders to help their dogs get rid of fleas and ticks. It is recommended to consult a vet to know the best course of action before proceeding. Medications for fleas and ticks in dogs FRONTLINE® Plus A powerful topical solution, it can beat ticks and fleas at all stages of their lifecycle.

Nasal polyps are soft tissue growths found inside the nasal passage or on the sinuses. They are a symptom of respiratory diseases, allergies, and common sinus infections. Nasal polyps can cause breathing problems due to congestion and may increase the risk of infections among adults. It is possible to manage the condition with medications and treatments among known nasal polyps info options. The following changes in the food regime also help. Foods rich in vitamins and minerals Vitamin A and foods rich in beta carotene help counter inflammation and protect the sinus membrane. Popular options include dark leafy greens and fresh fruits, including spinach, sweet potatoes, carrots, squash, melon, mango, and apricots. Additionally, vitamins C and E can help fight free radicals that cause tissue damage due to oxidative stress. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds that are rich in bromelain and magnesium can further provide relief from sinus infections triggered due to nasal polyps. These foods are rich in antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and repair tissues. Foods rich in nutrients Cayenne pepper is rich in capsaicin that helps clear the sinuses and congestion. Additionally, foods that contain quercetin are potent antioxidants that fight inflammation and provide long-term relief. Popular quercetin-rich fruits and vegetables include onions, capers, broccoli, apples, grapes, cherries, raspberries, lingonberries, and cranberries. Turmeric is one of the more potent herbs to combat inflammation as it contains curcumin. Additionally, you can consume healthy probiotics to balance the microbiome content in the gut and promote better immunity. Apart from these common foods and common nasal polyps info options for treatment, it is also necessary to stay hydrated. Water can help thin the mucus and moisten the nasal passage. Foods to avoid Soy, yeast, gluten, dairy, and eggs can trigger sinus-related discomforts. Foods rich in artificial additives and preservatives can trigger certain intolerances that aggravate the symptoms.

Oral health is essential, but despite that, most often easily neglected by individuals. While it is recommended to visit a dentist regularly, there are some tips and tricks that we can use at home to make sure our teeth are healthy, clean, and white! Here are some ways on how you can keep your teeth shiny and white through safe and tested methods. Do speak to your dentist before using these tips regularly at home. Easy at-home teeth whitening tips Whitening trays and strips You can easily find reputed whitening strips and trays which contain a bleaching agent called hydrogen peroxide. These strips are applied directly to the enamel to see desirable results. Activated charcoal whitener Charcoal whiteners have three very effective ingredients, namely activated charcoal, bentonite, and an oil like orange seed oil. These whiten the teeth by getting absorbed into them. Teeth whitening pastes These pastes contain ingredients such as sodium bicarbonate, hydrated silica, and calcium carbonate that remove stains from the teeth and polish them. Whitening packs These whitening packs are to be applied directly onto your teeth. You can do so at night after brushing your teeth. The pack is to be used as per instructions. Teeth whitening light In this, a whitening agent is directly applied to your enamel, and a blue LED light is held above to let the enamel absorb the ingredient in a slow and effective manner. Coconut oil pulling Another popular teeth whitening tip at home is to take 1tbsp of coconut oil and swirl it around your mouth for 10-15 minutes. Spit it out after and just do a quick rinse. Smart whitening brush A mix of whitening toothpaste and gel is the trick to get bright, clean teeth. It is advised to use this combination daily till the desired results are achieved.

Nasal polyps are soft, non-cancerous growth of the tissues that form in the nose or sinuses. If they are too large or there are many nasal polyps, it causes itching, runny nose, sneezing, and breathing difficulty. Nasal polyps are quite common and may be caused by allergies, inflammation, or infection. Surgery is a common treatment option; however, not everyone needs it. Here are some natural remedies to help ease nasal polyps symptoms and avoid surgery. Steam inhalation Inhaling steam can help unblock the nasal passages by thinning nasal mucus. It can also reduce swelling within the airways. An easy way of inhaling steam is to take a hot shower. Alternatively, you may heat a bowl of water and position the face over it while keeping a towel draped over the head to prevent steam from dispersing. Turmeric Turmeric is a yellow spice known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. In people with nasal polyps, turmeric can decrease irritation and inflammation of the airways. There are many ways of using this spice. One can make turmeric tea by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of the spice in a cup of boiling water or add turmeric powder to curries, stir-fry recipes, and smoothies. Cayenne pepper Cayenne pepper contains an active compound called capsaicin, which makes the hot pepper taste hot. It can cause a runny nose, which helps get rid of mucus, making breathing easier. Capsaicin can also relieve inflammation and boost immunity. Those who love spicy food can benefit from adding cayenne pepper liberally to multiple recipes. Tea tree oil Tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It may help deal with both symptoms and causes of nasal polyps by reducing itching, lowering inflammation, and combating infection. However, avoid using tea tree oil directly. Dilute it with a carrier oil, like olive oil or almond oil, and apply it to the nasal membranes.

People renovate their homes to improve the functionality of the space. Some people also renovate to change the aesthetic of their house and give it a new look. In either case, home renovations can be exciting and exhausting at the same time. It is a lengthy process that requires your utmost attention. That being said, things can go wrong; home renovation mistakes can cost you your time, money, and effort, and therefore, should be avoided. Deciding on an unrealistic budget One of the biggest errors that many homeowners make during renovation is not deciding and sticking to a fixed budget. When you are renovating your home, it’s easy to go over and above the budget that you have decided. What you need to do when deciding on a budget before you start your renovations is to make sure that you have some leeway. This way, even if you go overboard on your initial budget, you will not have to spend out of pocket. Experts usually suggest having an extra 20% added to your budget to tackle any additional renovations or hidden costs that may come up. Signing on the first contractor Many people choose to work with the first contractor they come across instead of comparing different options and quotes. To avoid this home renovation mistake, talk to multiple contractors. This step is crucial because it allows you to understand the cost of different products and services cost. A little due diligence can save you a world of trouble. Take notes each time you talk to a contractor and compare them before you decide to settle on one. Don’t forget to ask questions about licenses, insurance, experience, and even customer satisfaction. These aspects will also aid in your decision-making process. Using poor-quality materials Home renovations are not a frequent occurrence.

A home warranty is a service agreement that pays for the maintenance and repair of specific home systems and appliances that could malfunction due to normal wear and tear. It can help assure homeowners that unplanned repairs won’t be expensive. However, making a home warranty claim can be difficult for some, and the claim may get rejected. Here are the steps for filing a home warranty claim and what to do if it gets rejected. Steps for filing home warranty claims Review your contract The first step in filing a home warranty claim is to review your contract. Check to see which appliances and systems are covered by your home warranty and which are not. Contact the provider of your home warranty Contact your home warranty provider when you need to make a claim. Most home warranty providers offer a customer service hotline that is open 24/7 to help you with your claim. Set up a service call After you’ve reported the problem, the home warranty provider will arrange a service call with a qualified and insured technician after you’ve reported the problem. Service visit During the service call, the technician will identify the issue and propose a fix. If the item can be fixed, the technician will immediately start the repairs. Payment If your home warranty contract covers the problem, you will only be charged the service fee, usually between $50 and $100. If the contract does not cover the problem, you will be responsible for the full cost of the repair or replacement. Reasons for rejection of home warranty claim Unfortunately, a home warranty can be denied for a variety of reasons. Thus, it is imperative to read the contract’s terms and conditions to determine which appliances and systems are covered. If your warranty claim gets denied, you can consider filing an appeal with the service provider.

Cleaning the walls and dusting furniture are essential aspects of home cleaning, but the carpet is one surface on which considerable dust accumulates over time, and cleaning it becomes a challenging task. And contrary to popular belief, carpet cleaning can be a hassle-free process if one follows the right strategies and is aware of certain quick cleaning hacks. This article provides insight into some easy ways to clean a carpet: Clean using basic household products The “solutions” to a spotless carpet are mostly readily available at one’s home. A mixture of club soda and vinegar or baking soda, borax, and cornstarch can do wonders for your carpet, leaving it stain-free and tidy. One may also use steam vapor or a salt and vinegar solution for effective carpet cleaning. Another pro tip for cleaning a carpet is to apply a dab of shaving cream on it, which is effective in removing different types of stains. Blot stains on the carpet A common mistake while cleaning carpets is to rub on stains after pouring a solution. The right way to remove these stains is to blot them using a paper towel, sponge, or even a clean piece of cloth. Use ice cubes Hard, sticky substances like gum can be difficult to clean from carpets. One way to achieve this feat is to freeze these substances by placing ice cubes on them for about half a minute. One may then easily remove the sticky substance using a spoon. Use the heating process to remove wax Removing hardened wax settled over a carpet can be an excruciating task. This wax may be removed using the heating process, which involves placing a cotton cloth on the spot and running an iron over it. The wax may then be scooped off with a spoon once it melts.

Embarking on a home improvement project can be an exciting endeavor. These projects offer homeowners the chance to add value, functionality, and a touch of their personality to their living spaces. However, without proper planning and execution, these projects can rapidly go over budget. So, here are some common home improvement mistakes to avoid to ensure the remodeling journey is smooth, satisfying, and adds lasting value to one’s property. Underestimating the budget Homeowners often make the mistake of underestimating the total cost of their project before embarking on it. It’s essential to create a detailed budget, accounting for materials, labor, and any unexpected contingencies. One should allow for a buffer in one’s budget to tackle unforeseen challenges that may arise during the renovation process. Skipping research and planning Jumping into a home improvement project without proper research and planning can lead to inefficient use of resources and unsatisfactory results. One is advised to take the time to thoroughly research design ideas, materials, and potential contractors. One can plan out the entire project step by step, considering timelines, permits, and potential disruptions to one’s daily life during the renovation. Hiring the wrong contractors Selecting the right contractors is crucial to the success of one’s home improvement project. Avoid the mistake of hiring the first contractor one comes across or solely considering the lowest bid. One can take the time to interview multiple contractors, check references, and review past projects to ensure one is hiring a reputable, experienced, and licensed professional. Sacrificing quality for cost While it’s essential to stick to one’s budget, compromising on the quality of materials and workmanship is a mistake that can cost one in the long run. Inferior materials may wear out faster, requiring expensive repairs sooner than expected. One should thus invest in durable, high-quality materials and skilled labor to ensure one’s renovations stand the test of time.

Day or night, making frequent bathroom trips can be annoying for any individual. A symptom of an overactive bladder, frequent urination can affect one’s work and personal life. However, with proper treatment, it is possible to control frequent urination. Various home remedies, including nutritional changes and behavioral therapies, can help retain the bladder and prevent the need for frequent bathroom visits. Keep reading to learn about a few such helpful home remedies. Kegel exercises Kegel exercises can be beneficial in managing frequent urination problems. They repeatedly contract and release the pelvic floor muscles, building their strength. The increased strength can help improve bladder control and lower urination frequency. Bladder training Bladder training goes a long way in helping patients with an overactive bladder. At first, patients might find it difficult to hold in their urine for longer than usual. However, maintaining this practice for weeks retrains the bladder and reduces the urination frequency. Eating healthy foods One cool trick to managing frequent urination is avoiding foods and drinks that act as a diuretic or could irritate the bladder. It could include caffeine, carbonated beverages, spicy foods, tomato-based foods, and even chocolate. Adding more fiber to the meal can help relieve constipation and frequent urination problems. Being constipated can add more pressure to the bladder, causing the individual to make multiple bathroom visits. Adjusting the amount of fluid intake and doubling down on food that relieves constipation can also help with bladder issues. Stop the “just-in-case” visits One mistake people often make is going to the bathroom when there is no need to. The “just-in-case” visits might, in fact, be worsening the problem. Routinely trying to empty your bladder before it is necessary can retrain the brain and the bladder to signal early elimination of urine. Kohki tea Kohki is a sweet beverage that comes with an abundance of antioxidants.

Home lighting plays a crucial role in making a space inviting and comfortable and helps enhance its overall aesthetic. Lighting can either make or break the mood and feel of a home – it sets the tone, adds a finishing touch, and makes the space appealing. Homeowners unintentionally make a few lighting mistakes that can be easily addressed with proper planning. Continue reading to find out some common home lighting mistakes and how to fix them. Not considering the size of the lighting fixture Large and magnificent chandeliers or pendant lights are highly desirable but may not suit every home space. Therefore, consider the size of the lighting fixture and choose the ones that complement the space. Adding an oversized light in a small living room will eat up the whole space. Similarly, a tiny fixture will not provide adequate lighting to a large room. So, it is best to measure the size of the space when picking the lighting fixture for the room. One can also consider the furniture and wall colors to pick the most appropriate fixture that helps accentuate the whole area. Adding too many recessed lights Recessed lighting is the fixtures installed in the wall or ceiling. These lights are undoubtedly used to light up the entire space, but it’s better not to get too enthusiastic when adding these. Too many recessed lights can make the living room too bright, or too little can make the room dim. The best way to avoid this mistake is by creating a lighting plan to see how many recessed lights need to go into the hallway, bedroom, or kitchen. Ignoring dimmers Many homeowners may ignore the advantages of adding dimmers to their lighting setup. When it comes to flexibility, dimmers can be the saviors! Dimmers provide the option to adjust the brightness levels according to the mood or time of the day, making them a versatile option in modern lighting solutions.

The goal of a side hustle is to earn extra money to support one’s lifestyle. With the current economic scenario, people are constantly looking for sources of income besides salaries. It provides greater financial security and the freedom to pursue one’s interests while maintaining job security. The most important aspect of a side hustle is that it is exciting enough to keep one interested. Here are some of the most creative side-hustle ideas for 2023. Best side hustle ideas for 2023 Online surveys Filling online surveys is one of the simplest and most popular side hustles to get started with. Although it might not be the highest-paying job available online, it can be a great place to start learning about time management and balancing two careers, which may eventually lead to finding something more significant. For each survey, people can earn between $1 and $20. Writing blogs Starting a blog can be a fantastic option for people with a creative side who want a voice and a creative outlet. Most blogs generate a little money at first, but as their readership and reach grow, they generate more and more money. Bloggers can earn roughly tens of thousands of dollars per month. A beautiful website and valuable content can help a blog increase its traffic, popularity, and revenue. Proofreading Proofreading is one of the most popular side hustles. This position is best suited for people who enjoy writing for a living and possess excellent language and grammar skills. Proofreading focuses on grammar, spelling, and punctuation issues. Several businesses now hire freelance writers and proofreaders to ensure high-quality content. A person in this industry can expect to make between $20 and $50 per hour. Food delivery This is another fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys socializing, driving, and spending time outside. People can join a food delivery business using services like DoorDash or Uber Eats.

Smartphones like the iPhone have become an integral part of our daily lives in this increasingly digital age. These devices are incredibly useful tools and offer a range of benefits. However, despite paying a substantial price for the phone, most individuals develop several usage habits that can harm the iPhone’s performance, longevity, and security in the long run. So, here are a few bad iPhone habits and how to break them: Ignoring software updates Failing to update the iPhone’s operating system and apps may leave devices vulnerable to security threats and performance issues. Users should stay proactive by enabling automatic updates or regularly checking for updates in the App Store and Settings. Not utilizing the iCloud backup Several individuals do not utilize the iCloud backup feature on the iPhone. This feature provides a seamless and secure way to safeguard crucial data, such as photos, contacts, apps, and settings. With iCloud Backup, users can restore their entire data in case of loss or damage, ensuring minimal disruption to their digital lives. Skipping AppleCare Skipping insurance coverage like AppleCare for the iPhone might seem like a cost-saving measure, but it could be risky. iPhones are valuable investments, and accidents can happen anytime. Without insurance, repair or replacement costs could be substantial. AppleCare plans offer peace of mind, covering accidental damage, theft, and hardware issues. Overlooking “Screen Time” notifications iPhones provide valuable insights into screen time habits through the Screen Time feature. Ignoring these notifications may prevent users from recognizing patterns of excessive usage. It’s important to review these reports regularly to make informed decisions about app usage. Neglecting battery well-being As time passes, batteries naturally deteriorate, and disregarding their condition could lead to diminished battery longevity and unforeseen power cuts. To overcome this tendency, individuals could utilize the integrated “Battery Health” function to keep track of their iPhone’s battery capacity.