Common Household Products That Can Damage Lungs

Common Household Products That Can Damage Lungs

Long-term exposure to daily-use cleaners, dishwashing soaps, air fresheners, and other aerosol products harms lung health, mainly because these products contain irritants and volatile organic compounds that cause allergies in the lungs. There is a potential risk of lung disease, asthma, MAC disease, and common chronic obstructive pulmonary disease developing due to long-term exposure. So, it’s crucial to check the label of the following household items before buying them and practice caution while using them. Air fresheners Room and air fresheners are not just used in homes but also in offices, malls, and many other public places, which means one can be continually exposed to the product in and outside their living space. While the purpose of air fresheners is to keep odor at bay, several ingredients in the air freshener can cause harm to health. Fresheners are known to have volatile organic compounds and release harmful gasses in the air that are eventually inhaled by people in the room, increasing their risk of developing respiratory issues. Some of the known chemicals in such products include formaldehyde, benzene, and phthalates which can cause issues like coughing, wheezing, and difficulty in breathing when inhaled. Here is a list of ingredients that one will usually find in air fresheners and a look at how they can potentially harm the lungs: Solvents: They contain chemicals like glycol and ethanol used for diluting the other ingredients in the air freshener can. When these chemicals are inhaled, they cause irritation in the lungs. Aldehydes: This is a compound that develops with the natural chemical process taking place inside the bottle as the ingredients keep mixing together over time. This compound, when inhaled, can also be responsible for causing not just irritation but also cancer. Propellants: The ingredient is responsible for creating the mist when an air freshener is sprayed.
Top 13 most returned Christmas gifts

Top 13 most returned Christmas gifts

One can almost hear the jingling Christmas bells and see the twinkling fairy lights with Christmas not that far away. With it comes the exchange of gifts—an indispensable part of Christmas celebrations. Choosing a gift is about understanding what the receiver wants and likes and combining visual appeal with utility. To help one narrow down the best options, here are a few gifts that are often returned and, thus, should be avoided: 1. Video games Although buying a video game is a good idea for gamers, if one does not have access to the receiver’s game collection, they may end up gifting a game that the receiver already has. Moreover, if one does not have a fair idea about video games, they may end up buying the wrong game, which may not be useful for the recipient. So, it is a good idea to avoid buying a video game if one is unsure of the exact game the recipient wants. 2. Shoes Few things are more pleasant for fashionable individuals than being gifted a pair of elegant shoes. However, buying the right pair of shoes involves many considerations. First, one would have to ensure that the type and design of shoes are in accordance with the recipient’s preferences. Further, one shoe size definitely does not fit all, so shoes of the wrong size would be returned as a Christmas present. 3. Scented candles Scented candles are perhaps among the most popular Christmas gifts. But candles with an overwhelmingly strong fragrance or those with a scent the recipient does not like can make the gift stay unused. Alternatively, one can consider gifting a loved one a scent diffuser for Christmas, as they can add the fragrance of their choice to it. 4. Clothes Gifting clothes is usually risky, as one would have to consider factors like the size of the receiver, the type of clothing they like, and whether they already have similar options.
Top 20 best 2022 Black Friday furniture sales to check out

Top 20 best 2022 Black Friday furniture sales to check out

The Black Friday shopping season is here to enthrall you. Are you waiting for it eagerly to shop for your favorite items with the best deals? Also, there are plenty of Black Friday furniture sales to impress you and help you upgrade your home. Some amazing deals and discounts were available last year; listed below are a few. This list will give you an idea of what’s on offer this year. Here is a list of some amazing Black Friday deals that were offered last year: Last year there was $182 off on the Walnew four-piece outdoor patio furniture. You could get up to 80% off on rugs at Wayfair. Another great deal was the $135 off on the Gymax Patio Outdoor Rattan Furniture set (3 pieces) plus free shipping. Another outstanding offer at Walnew was the $76 off on pre-assembled modern dining chairs, a set of four, plus free shipping. You could enjoy up to 50% off on living room furniture plus free shipping at Walmart. You could enjoy your meals or entertain family and friends with the Canyon five-piece dining set with a large dining table. This was available at a discounted price last year, and you could also look for bigger and better furniture deals on Black Friday this year. Looking for deals on branded furniture? Then Amazon offered up to 15 % off on brands, including its own, and free shipping. You should not miss the 40% off on recliners and massage chairs at HomeDepot. This was offered last year too. Office furniture and chairs were as low as $99 with various retailers. You can also get up to 30% off on select furniture pieces at Amazon. Deals and discounts were also available on branded armchairs. This included 40-50% off on accent chairs. Look for discounts on Madison Park Furniture, as this was available at 30-40% off last year.
Top 10 Black Friday 2022 internet service deals

Top 10 Black Friday 2022 internet service deals

On the sale bonanza day of Black Friday, even internet service providers do not hold back from offering the discounts you wish for. From 5G internet to exciting gift cards, you can find what you want and more. In this write-up, you will be made aware of some of the best internet deals that you can expect on Black Friday this year. Like every year, this year, the deals will be rewarding, too. AT&T Internet Like every year, this internet service provider will be loaded with exciting offers on Black Friday. You can expect gift cards worth $100 or $50 when you make a purchase of a certain amount. These offers are for both new and current customers. If you are a new customer of AT&T Internet, then you could get a $10 discount on the home Wi-Fi and various internet plans. Spectrum Spectrum could be a good choice if you want to find a new internet service provider. You can sign up for Spectrum online this Black Friday and get a cheaper deal than usual. They are also known for providing free equipment and activation services. Xfinity Xfinity is an internet service provider known for offering the best deals to new customers on Black Friday. This year, a new customer that opts for an Xfinity internet plan and an Xfinity mobile connection could receive a gift card worth around $300. Verizon Fios If you love cool freebies, then Verizon Fios will have a ton of those for you this Black Friday. If you sign up for their home unlimited internet services, then you could win goodies such as a PlayStation. HughesNet HughesNet is an internet service provider available in almost all parts of the country. This service provider also offers various deals and discounts that could reduce internet charges.
Healthy Foods to Manage Menstrual Cramps

Healthy Foods to Manage Menstrual Cramps

About 80% of women worldwide suffer from menstrual cramps, also known as dysmenorrhea. Women can have period pain right from their teens and continue till menopause. However, in around 5 to 10% of women, menstrual cramps are painful enough to disrupt their daily lives. These cramping pains are intense throbbing sensations in the lower abdomen experienced during the menstrual period. This pain can radiate to the thighs and the lower back as well.  The menstrual pain begins 1 to 3 days before the period starts, peaks on the second day of the menstrual cycle, and usually subsides after the third day. Some women may also have headaches, nausea, loose stools, dizziness, and painful menstruation. How to deal with menstrual cramps? If the cramps are mild or moderately painful, certain home remedies can help relieve the pain. However, if it is debilitating and disrupts your daily life, you may need to see a doctor. For pain that is not too severe,  there are some home remedies that you can try. They include: Hot water bags Hot water bags or compresses applied to the lower back and abdomen can help soothe the period pain Exercise Some studies suggest that light exercises like yoga and mild cardio can reduce period cramps. Massage Massaging the abdomen and back gently can help lessen the ache. In addition to home remedies, some foods can also help alleviate menstrual cramps. Cruciferous and leafy vegetables Cruciferous vegetables are from the plant genus Brassica, and they include kale, watercress, collard greens, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, arugula, etc. They are nutrient-rich and contain calcium, magnesium, fiber, carotenoids, folate, and vitamins E, C, and K. They help relieve period pain and have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. Dark green leafy vegetables like spinach, mustard greens, lettuce, micro greens, etc., contain iron and help combat body pain, dizziness, and fatigue.
20 Delicious Allergy-Free Snacks for Kids

20 Delicious Allergy-Free Snacks for Kids

Children lead an active lifestyle. So naturally, they work up an appetite and crave foods to satiate these hunger pangs. But you wouldn’t want your children to eat too much of foods that are excessive in added sugar, vegetable oil, and preservatives and trigger their allergies. To avoid this, you can pack healthy lunches that include the following wholesome and allergy-free snacks that they will love to enjoy during breaks. Popcorn Kids can munch on this tasty, filling, and allergy-free snack all day long. Popcorn is low in calories and rich in nutrients that are easily absorbed by the body. It is a whole grain, so the corn kernels are filled with fiber that helps curb hunger pangs and keeps kids satiated throughout the day. Baked nachos Baked nachos are gluten-free and contain essential fibers, and are delicious snacks that kids can munch on. You can even make some homemade salsa dips with fresh tomatoes, cilantro, and lime. You can also whip up some fresh guacamole with avocados to pair it with nachos. Homemade fries Instead of potato fries, why not make sweet potato fries that are healthier and allergy-free? You can even use an air fryer or bake the chips in the oven to make them oil-free and retain nutrients. The best part is that these chips also have a good shelf life, so you can bake a big batch and hand out the snacks every other day. Pretzels Pretzels are absolutely popular among kids. You can make the baked kind, as a little indulgence never hurts anyone. You can even consider store-bought options for packing a school snack. Pita chips Kids who are not allergic to gluten can enjoy some delicious pita chips bought from the supermarket. You can even make some homemade dips and condiments that go well with these chips for a hassle-free snack option.
7 effective ways to manage bleeding disorders

7 effective ways to manage bleeding disorders

Bleeding disorders entail the body’s inability to clot blood as part of a biological process called hemostasis. In most cases, the person with the disorder bleeds spontaneously, without any known reason. At other times, there could be prolonged bleeding after surgery, a trauma, injury, or during menstruation. Besides treatment that the doctor suggests, there are ways to take care to prevent bleeding. These are the five ways to prevent the disorder effectively: Subcutaneous injection instead of intramuscular vaccination and immunization shots In general, immunizations and vaccinations are given into a muscle or intramuscularly. In this case, whether it is an adult or a child who needs to take the vaccine, the nurse and the doctor should be aware that the person has a clotting-related disorder. In such cases, nurses take precautions to apply the vaccine under the skin or subcutaneously. Also, the typical needle is never used. Instead, a smaller needle is used for vaccination. Once the injection has been applied, ice is applied to the spot with pressure for 5 – 10 minutes to prevent bleeding.    Children with a bleeding disorder should take necessary precautions If a child suffers from hemophilia type A, they must wear a helmet while riding a bicycle to prevent head injuries in case of an accident. Also, parents must ensure that the child stays away from playing sports like football or hockey. In most cases, the sports that should be avoided are contact sports. Wrestling and boxing are also not recommended. If the child is keen to play any sports, parents should first speak with the child’s healthcare expert.   Regular check-ups To stay away from any bleeding problems due to the bleeding disorder, it is pertinent to go in for regular check-ups as and when advised by the doctor. Procrastination will only make matters worse.
5 popular vacuum cleaners to choose from

5 popular vacuum cleaners to choose from

A vacuum cleaner is a great companion since it makes home or office cleaning efficient. But, buying the right one is not easy with multiple choices in the market. So, if you understand various factors such as the need, convenience, area and nature of your residence, product features, etc., it’ll help heaps. You will make a cost-effective purchase, one that’ll sustain for long. Here is a list of the most popular vacuums in the country: Upright vacuum cleaner from Shark APEX  This one is a must as it is one of the best bagless cleaners that can clean carpets and floors with equal effectiveness. Also, it is sealed, implying that the dust retention power is better. Although, the sound levels are pretty low, but even in the absence of the bag, its capacity to filter out small particles is exceptional. The added advantage of this model is its easy-to-convert feature in a canister. This feature, along with its 30ft long cord, helps the cleaner reach out to shady nooks and corners, below the furniture, and other tricky spots or crevices. You will also love that the HEPA filter is washable, which means you have less stress of replacing it regularly. More so, it comes with a brush roll best suited for untangling your pet’s messy hair. Best features:   Washable HEPA Filter Upright-to-canister conversion with a button   Pet hair mess up can be cleaned with the brush roll   Lightweight at 16 lbs.   LG’s CordZero Jet 90 Stick Vacuum   This LG cordless stick appliance is empowered with a range of productivity tools that makes life immensely easy. Its sleek contours and additional battery stash make it handy and purposeful.  This device is a vacuum cleaner plus a power mop. It has two pads that can be dipped in water for a wet mop.
10 Black Friday Washer and Dryer Deals to Look Forward To In 2023

10 Black Friday Washer and Dryer Deals to Look Forward To In 2023

Owning a washer and dryer helps one better control over their laundry cycle. These machines, however, can be rather expensive. That said, with Black Friday around the corner, many brands are gearing up to host exciting deals on their appliances. Now may be the perfect time to invest in a laundry solution to upgrade the home. Inspired by last year’s sales, here are 10 deals on washers and dryers to expect on Black Friday 2023. Front-load washing machines Front-load washing machines have a door at the front of the unit, and a horizontal drum. In case of restricted space, it can easily be stacked on top of a front-load drying unit. Top deals on front-load washing machines on Black Friday 2022 included: 1. Samsung’s high-efficiency stackable steam cycle front-load washer hosted a whopping 35% discount, bringing its price down to $648. It can easily clean a 15-pound load and is equipped with an allergen cycle to kill germs and dust mites. 2. LG also offered a 33% discount on its stackable smart washer. Originally $1199, customers could get it for just $798 on Black Friday. The model has 10 different wash cycles, with one that is equipped to clean clothes in just 15 minutes. Top-load washing machines As the name suggests, top-load washing machines have a door on top of the unit that can be used to load or unload the machine. It has a vertical drum that is capable of deep water washing and soaking. They tend to be cheaper in comparison to front-load washing machines. However, they cannot be stacked on top of a dryer. Last year, these brands offered significant discounts on their top-load washing machines: 3. GE’s high-efficiency Impeller Top-load washer was offered at a 35% discount, bringing its price down to $848. The appliance has a luxurious finish and is equipped with a unique automatic detergent dispenser that can hold up to 50 lbs of detergent.
19 common mistakes to dodge when buying a car

19 common mistakes to dodge when buying a car

Buying a car is a major decision that can either be exhilarating or exasperating, depending on how well you navigate the process. Unfortunately, there are several common car-buying mistakes that can turn your joy ride into a bumpy one. In order to avoid being stuck with a car that you don’t want in the long run, it is important to learn how to avoid certain pitfalls throughout the vehicle-buying process. Skipping Research By starting the car-buying journey without extensive research, one risks making poor choices, overspending, and experiencing buyer’s remorse. Conduct thorough research by defining needs, budgets, and preferences. Also, explore different makes and models, read reviews, and compare prices. Overlooking a Budget Neglecting to set a budget before one begins shopping can lead to financial potholes, causing overspending, debt, and buyer’s regret. Determine the budget based on the financial situation, considering the purchase price, ongoing expenses (insurance, maintenance, fuel), and financing options. Creating a financial roadmap will help one stay on course. Neglecting Pre-approval Arriving at dealerships without securing pre-approved financing is like setting sail without a compass. It can lead to higher interest rates and limited negotiation power. Research financing options from banks, credit unions, or online lenders. Obtain pre-approval to establish a clear budget and improve one’s bargaining position. Not Test Driving If one skips the test drive, one might find that their car isn’t as comfortable, handles poorly, or lacks expected features once it hits the road. Always schedule a test drive. Pay attention to how the car feels on the road, its visibility, and the functionality of its features. Focusing Solely on Monthly Payments Zeroing in on monthly payments alone can lead to longer loan terms, higher overall costs, and negative equity. Consider the total cost of the car, including interest rates and loan duration, rather than just monthly payments.
9 common car maintenance mistakes and how to avoid them

9 common car maintenance mistakes and how to avoid them

A car is a significant investment, so it is important to ensure it functions properly for a long time. Timely repairs, servicing, and maintenance are a few ways to keep your car in good condition. However, car owners often miss out on certain aspects of maintenance, which can lead to repair jobs that can burn a hole in the wallet. To help avoid such scenarios, here are some common car maintenance mistakes to avoid. Trying to service your car without any expertise Car owners may be easily tempted to do maintenance work on their automobiles to save a few bucks. You may think the problem is relatively small, and you only need to look at a few videos online, get the tools, and solve the problem yourself. However, if you don’t have the required experience or expertise in car maintenance, it will result in problems in the long run. You will have to pay more than you wanted to save to reverse all the damage. Therefore, it is always best to check with a professional having the necessary equipment, tools, and expertise to service and repair your car correctly. Postponing the car wash Reasons ranging from sudden emergency appointments and personal commitments to errands often push back on the routine car wash you had planned. While it is okay to miss out on the car wash a couple of times, skipping it for weeks or months is one of the most common car maintenance mistakes that can be easily avoided. It is because weather elements, pollution, mud, and chemicals will damage the exterior of your car. It may also lead to premature rusting of the car paint. So regular visits to the car wash that also cleans the undercarriage will go a long way in protecting your car. Forgetting to clean your car’s interior Most people assume that car maintenance only involves taking care of the exterior and mechanical components of the car.
7 Common Types of Hair Removal Products

7 Common Types of Hair Removal Products

Hair develops on various areas of the body apart from the scalp, like the upper lip, back, legs, fingers, feet, toes, and chin. While such hair growth is normal and usually linked to genetics, many may not like it and want to stop it. However, one should choose the right technique and product based on the skin type, intended results, and ease of use. So, here are common types of hair removal products to consider: Razors One of the most common hair removal methods, especially among young individuals, is shaving. Here one uses a razor cut the hair off at the surface of the skin. Razor blades come in various styles ranging from cost-effective disposable razors used on wet skin to more expensive electric ones suitable for dry shaving. This is a quick, inexpensive, and easy-to-learn process to remove unwanted hair from the body. However, within three days, hair may become slightly visible. Cotton thread Threading is usually used to shape eyebrows. Here one has to double and twist a thin cotton or polyester thread and roll it over areas of unwanted hair to target the growth at the follicle level. It is an inexpensive, quick, and precise way to remove strands one at a time. The process may be slightly painful, so one could apply aloe vera gel after threading to soothe irritated skin. Tweezers Another low-budget way of getting rid of unwanted hair is by physically pulling or plucking it. One could try this method at home or visit a professional to get the job done. The technique is suitable for getting rid of stray hair long enough to grab. One can pull or pluck hair strands by grasping a single strand and pulling. Plucking, usually along the eyebrows, is a great option, as each strand of hair then takes longer to grow when it has been pulled out entirely from the follicle.