Monday, December 7, 2020

How to of the Day

How to of the Day


How to Edge a Lawn

Posted: 07 Dec 2020 04:00 PM PST

You've mowed your lawn, raked the leaves, and watered the flowers—but your lawn still looks a little unkempt. It's probably the little bits of grass around the edge of your lawn that your mower can't reach, which can be taken care of with an edger. Edging your lawn isn't hard, and you can do it with a gas, electric, or manual tool. All you need is a little practice, and your lawn can look like it was done by a professional!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Power Edger or Weed Wacker

  1. Put on long pants, eye goggles, and gloves. Power edgers and weed wackers have a tendency to throw dirt and debris around as they work. If there are any small rocks in your lawn, those could get tossed up as well, so make sure your eyes, skin, and hands are covered up before you start.[1]
    Edge a Lawn Step 1 Version 5.jpg
    • If your tool is super loud (some gas ones are) you can also put on some ear plugs to protect your ears.
    • You should also warn anyone around you that you're about to use your edger so they can get out of the way.
  2. Use your power edger or weed wacker around sidewalks and footpaths. When you edge your lawn, you have two options for which tool to use: an electric or gas powered tool, or a manual edging tool. Because you don't have the space to dig out extra mulch or dirt around sidewalks and footpaths, it's best to use a power edger in these situations.[2]
    Edge a Lawn Step 2 Version 5.jpg
    • If you're going to buy a power tool, try to find one that's lightweight so you don't strain your back or your arms.
    • Purchase a few replacement blades for your edger too, just in case.
  3. Start at one end of the lawn. Turn your edging tool on (for gas powered there will be a string to pull; for electric, just press the "on" button) and move to one edge of your lawn. Moving from end to end will be much easier than starting in the middle, so it's best to work from one side to the other.[3]
    Edge a Lawn Step 3 Version 5.jpg
    • If you're worried about messing up, start edging your backyard first before you move to the front. That way you can get some practice before trying it out on the part of your yard that everyone will see.
    • If you have sprinklers in your lawn, mark where those are and be sure to stay away from them so you don't damage your tool.
  4. Hold your edging tool with the blade level to the ground. As you set up to start using your tool, position the blade (or the strings) so they're level with the grass you'd like to cut. For some edgers, this may mean turning your tool on its side so it lines up with the edge of your lawn. Others, you just hold them straight.[4]
    Edge a Lawn Step 4 Version 5.jpg
    • You can hold your tool with both hands by the handle. This will help keep it steady and in place as you go.
  5. Cut about deep. Much further down than that, and you run into the risk of cutting pipes or wires. Keep your tool about below the grass line to get a smooth, clean edge.[5]
    Edge a Lawn Step 5 Version 5.jpg
    • You can try out this depth and change it up if you don't like it. It's your lawn!
  6. Walk forward slowly and take your time. Keep holding your tool by the handles straight out in front of you, trying to keep it as steady as you can. Engage your core and keep your shoulders down as you walk forward slowly to cut your grass as evenly as possible.[6]
    Edge a Lawn Step 6 Version 5.jpg
    • As you learn how to edge your lawn, you'll pick up speed. Start slow at first so you don't accidentally wobble or wiggle.
    • If you can, walk on the sidewalk or the footpath as you edge. This will be a flatter surface so you don't accidentally cut a curve in your grass.
  7. Use a leaf blower to clean up dirt or grass. If you're edging along a sidewalk or a footpath, you might blow dirt or grass onto the concrete. If you want your lawn to look spotless, use a leaf blower to blow the dirt and grass back onto your lawn. If you don't mind it, you don't have to worry about it.[7]
    Edge a Lawn Step 7 Version 5.jpg
    • This will make your lawn look like it's been done by a professional.

[Edit]Manual Tool

  1. Edge around flower beds and planters with a manual edger. Flower beds and planters are perfect for using a manual edge because you can afford to take away a little soil or mulch when you edge them. You also won't spray a ton of grass and dirt around like you would with a power edger or weed wacker.[8]
    Edge a Lawn Step 8 Version 5.jpg
    • Manual edgers take more time, but you can be more precise with them. They're a nice way to start out if you're nervous about edging or you have a small lawn.
    • Most manual tools look like a half-moon with a long, shovel-like handle.
  2. Drive the edging tool into the ground until the lip hits the soil. Line up your tool with the spot you'd like to edge, then shove it into the ground with the handle sticking straight up. This will create your edge, so make sure it's positioned exactly where you'd like your edge to be.[9]
    Edge a Lawn Step 9 Version 5.jpg
    • If you're having trouble, use your foot to stomp on the tool and drive it deeper.
    • Watch out for pipes and sprinklers! You can do some serious damage to anything underground with this tool.
    • If you're edging around trees or shrubs, make sure you won't hit any roots before you start edging.
  3. Rock the edge from side to side, then pull the handle back. This will loosen up the soil enough to create your indentation. As you pull the handle back, the soil and grass will lift up out of the ground.[10]
    Edge a Lawn Step 10 Version 5.jpg
    • It's super important to keep the handle straight up, even as you're rocking it from side to side. As soon as you pull back on the handle, you'll lift up the dirt.
  4. Shovel up the loose soil to remove it from your lawn. If the soil is hard to get at right away, rake it into a pile before you shovel it up. You can store your loose dirt in a wheelbarrow and transfer it to another part of your yard to keep the edge of your lawn looking sharp.[11]
    Edge a Lawn Step 11.jpg
    • If your edging tool seems dull, use a file to sharpen the edges so they slice into the dirt easily.

[Edit]Tips

  • You won't need to edge every time you mow the lawn. Use your edger and trim a clean line as you see the borders growing out.

[Edit]Warnings

  • Don't scrape the edger blade against concrete. You'll ruin the blade.
  • Make sure no one else is near when you are running the edger as it throws debris.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

[Edit]Power Edger or Weed Wacker

  • Lawn edger
  • Eye goggles
  • Gloves

[Edit]Manual Tool

  • Manual edger
  • Shovel

[Edit]Related wikiHows

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

How to Remove Ice from a Car

Posted: 07 Dec 2020 08:00 AM PST

We've all been there: it's freezing cold and you've got to get to work soon. You walk outside to find your car covered in ice. Great, now what? Have no fear! You can get that ice off quickly and easily so you can get out on the road soon.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Defrosting and Scraping

  1. Start your car and turn on your defrost setting. Fire up your car's engine so it can start heating up. Turn on the heater and set it to the defrost setting so the warm air flows over your windshield to start warming it up and melting the ice.[1]
    Remove Ice from a Car Step 1 Version 3.jpg
    • It may take a few minutes for the air coming out to warm up.
    • If your car has defrost vents on your side windows and side mirrors, turn them on as well.
  2. Set the temperature to full heat and the air to recirculate. Find your temperature button or slide and set it to the highest heat setting possible. Look for an airflow setting on your A/C panel and adjust it so the air inside the car is being recirculated.[2]
    Remove Ice from a Car Step 2 Version 3.jpg
    • Recirculating the air can help it heat up faster and warms up the air inside the car which can help defrost any other windows with ice on them.
  3. Turn on your headlights to melt any ice on them. Flick on your car's headlights and taillights so the bulbs can start warming up, which will melt the ice and make it easier to remove. Leave the lights on while you remove the ice from your windows to give it some time to heat up.[3]
    Remove Ice from a Car Step 3 Version 3.jpg
  4. Use a plastic scraper to scrape off the ice from your windows. Take a plastic glass scraper and wedge it beneath the layer of ice on the outside of the glass. Drag the scraper over the surface of the glass to scrape off the ice. Work your way around your car and remove the ice from all of your windows so you're able to see in every direction when you drive.[4]
    Remove Ice from a Car Step 4 Version 3.jpg
    • Avoid using anything but a scraper designed to remove ice from cars so you don't scratch the glass.
    • If there's ice covering your headlights, scrape it off as well.
  5. Spray a rubbing alcohol and water mixture on stubborn ice. If the ice is too thick or difficult to scrape off with just your scraper, take a clean spray bottle and add 1 part rubbing alcohol and 2 parts water. Shake it up well to fully combine the mixture. Apply the solution liberally over your windshield and windows to start melting the ice and make it easier to scrape off.[5]
    Remove Ice from a Car Step 5 Version 3.jpg
    • If you plan to keep a spray bottle full of the mixture, keep it stored in your home so it stays at room temperature. If you store it in your car it could freeze.
    • You can also add a few drops of dish soap to the mixture to act as a surfactant, which can help the solution coat the ice more evenly.

[Edit]Getting Rid of Ice and Snow

  1. Brush off any snow on your car with a broom or show brush. Snow likes to settle on the roof, hood, and trunk of your car and could become a hazard out on the road, so take a sturdy show brush or a broom and give your car a good sweeping. Knock off snow you find stuck on top of any ice on your car as well to make the ice easier to scrape off.[6]
    Remove Ice from a Car Step 6 Version 3.jpg
    • Whatever you do, don't use a snow shovel to brush the snow off of your car. It's way too easy to scratch up your paint job or crack a window.
  2. Smack your hood and trunk with a flattened hand. Break up any thin layers of ice that may have formed over the surface of your car so they're easier to brush off. A good, open-handed smack on the hood as well as your trunk should do the trick.[7]
    Remove Ice from a Car Step 7 Version 3.jpg
  3. Use lock de-icer if your car's locks are frozen. If you can't unlock your car because a layer of ice has them frozen, apply a commercial lock de-icer to get them working again. Spray the liquid into the keyhole and wait for it to melt the ice. Then, unlock your car door.[8]
    Remove Ice from a Car Step 8 Version 2.jpg
    • Lock for lock de-icer at your local auto supply store or department store. You can also order it online.
    • You can also make your own de-icer by mixing together of rubbing alcohol and of water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture onto your keyholes to melt the ice.
  4. Make sure all of the ice and snow is removed before you drive. Walk around your car and inspect it for any ice or snow that may still be on it. If you find any, scrape or brush it off. Any ice or snow that you leave on could come loose and fly off while you're driving, which could potentially cause an accident.[9]
    Remove Ice from a Car Step 9 Version 2.jpg
    • It can be tempting to try to get just enough ice off so you can see, especially if you're late or in a hurry. But it could be really dangerous. Take an extra moment to remove all of the ice before you drive.
    • In many places driving with snow and ice still on your car is also illegal and you could be faced with a hefty fine.[10]

[Edit]Ice Prevention

  1. Park your car in a garage if you can. If you have a covered garage, use it! Park your car there so it isn't exposed to the elements and forms ice on the windshield and windows overnight.[11]
    Remove Ice from a Car Step 10 Version 2.jpg
    • Parking under a covered carport can also help prevent snow and ice from building up on your car.
  2. Spray a mixture of vinegar and water on your windshield at night. Combine 3 parts white vinegar with 1 part water in a spray bottle and shake it up to mix it well. Pretreat your windshield with the solution and then wipe up the excess to leave a thin layer on the glass that will help keep ice from forming overnight.[12]
    Remove Ice from a Car Step 11 Version 2.jpg
    • Don't leave too much liquid on the glass or it could potentially freeze if it gets cold enough.
    • FYI: according to AAA, some glass professionals believe that exposing your windshield to liquid vinegar too often could damage the glass.
  3. Cover your windshield at night as an alternative. Another option you can use if you want to keep ice from forming on your windshield overnight is to cover it with a windshield cover, tarp, towel, a folded sheet, or even bath mats. Cover the glass so none of it is exposed to prevent ice from being able to form on it.[13]
    Remove Ice from a Car Step 12.jpg
    • You can find windshield covers that use magnets to stay attached to your windshield at your local auto supply shop. You can also order them online.
    • You may have heard that soaking windshield covers in salt water can help prevent ice. While they can stop ice from forming, they can also damage your car's wax and finish. You may just want to use a dry cover.


[Edit]Tips

  • If you have any problems or your car breaks down, call a roadside assistance company like AAA to help you out.

[Edit]Warnings

  • Never get on the road with ice or snow still on your car. It could cause an accident and is illegal in many places.[14]

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

How to Whiten Teeth With Baking Soda

Posted: 07 Dec 2020 12:00 AM PST

Having white teeth can be a major confidence boost. Fortunately, you may not need to spend lots of money on whitening kits or professional treatments. Brushing or rinsing with baking soda could help whiten your teeth, but be aware you should use it carefully. To prevent dental erosion, brush with baking soda in moderation and avoid using too much force. Bear in mind discoloration may point to dental issues, so try to see a dentist if you haven't had a checkup in a while.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Brushing with a Baking Soda Paste

  1. Mix together baking soda and water. In a small cup, mix ¼ to ½ teaspoon (1½ to 3g) of baking soda with enough water to form a paste. A paste of about 2 parts of baking soda mixed with 1 part of water is easier to apply and more effective than baking soda alone.[1]
    Whiten Teeth With Baking Soda Step 1 Version 11.jpg
    • Avoid making a paste with baking soda and lemon, strawberry, or any other fruit juice. Fruit juices are acidic and could erode your teeth's enamel, especially when combined with baking soda or other abrasive products.[2]
  2. Brush your teeth with the baking soda paste for 1 to 2 minutes. Dip a soft-bristled brush into the paste, and gently scrub your teeth using circular motions. Brush all around instead of scrubbing 1 spot for the entire 2 minutes. Be sure not to brush hard or you might hurt your teeth.[3]
    Whiten Teeth With Baking Soda Step 2 Version 7.jpg
    • Alternatively, use your fingertips to gently rub your teeth with the paste. Rub in soft circles, and don't use too much force.
    • If you have receding gums, avoid brushing the base of your teeth and around your gum line with baking soda. The substance that covers your teeth below the gums is softer than enamel and prone to damage.[4]
  3. Rinse out your mouth when you're finished brushing. After brushing for 2 minutes, spit out the baking soda and rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash. Give your toothbrush a thorough rinse as well.
    Whiten Teeth With Baking Soda Step 3 Version 7.jpg
    • Note that you shouldn't rinse after brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, as rinsing reduces fluoride's beneficial effects. For this reason, don't brush or rinse with baking soda right after brushing with regular toothpaste. If you really need to rinse away visible residue after using regular toothpaste, use as little water as possible.[5]
  4. Repeat every other day for up to 2 weeks. At most, brush your teeth with baking soda paste every other day for 1 to 2 weeks. Then cut back to doing it just once or twice a week. Since it's abrasive, using baking soda more frequently may damage your teeth.[6]
    Whiten Teeth With Baking Soda Step 4 Version 8.jpg
    • Keep in mind that brushing your teeth with baking soda should not replace brushing your teeth with regular toothpaste. Brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and regular dental checkups are the best ways to keep your teeth healthy.
    • Before brushing with baking soda, check with your dentist to see if your teeth are healthy enough for this method. Your teeth may be sensitive to abrasion, and baking soda may cause irreversible dental erosion.

[Edit]Trying Alternative Methods

  1. Mix 2 parts of baking soda with 1 part of 1% to 3% hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide may whiten teeth, but you need to use it with caution. To try this method, mix 2 parts of baking soda with 1 part of 1% to 3% hydrogen peroxide to form a paste. Brush your teeth with the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, then rinse with water.[7]
    Whiten Teeth With Baking Soda Step 5 Version 10.jpg
    • Make sure you use hydrogen peroxide with a concentration of 3% or less. Brush with hydrogen peroxide and baking soda once a week at most.
    • Stop brushing and rinse your mouth with cool water if you feel a burning sensation. Don't use this method if you have receding or sensitive gums, as hydrogen peroxide can cause irritation and damage exposed roots.[8]
  2. Brush your teeth with a mix of baking soda and fluoride toothpaste. Squeeze your regular toothpaste onto your toothbrush, then sprinkle a pinch of baking soda on top. Brush your teeth as you normally would for 2 minutes with soft, circular motions. Then spit and, if you need to rinse away white residue, swish your mouth with a little water.[9]
    Whiten Teeth With Baking Soda Step 6 Version 8.jpg
    • As with a baking soda and water paste, brush with baking soda and toothpaste in moderation. Try it every other day for 1 to 2 weeks at first, then brush with baking soda once or twice a week at most.
    • You can also purchase a toothpaste that already contains baking soda. In the United States, look for a product that carries the ADA (American Dental Association) Seal of Acceptance, and use it as directed.[10]
    • If you have sensitive teeth or dental erosion, avoid using toothpastes that contain baking soda or are branded as whitening products.[11]
  3. Gargle with a baking soda and water rinse. Combine 1 teaspoon (6 g) of baking soda and of water in a glass, then stir the mixture until the baking soda is evenly distributed. Take a sip, gargle for about 30 seconds, then spit out the mixture. Repeat the steps until you've finished the entire glass.[12]
    Whiten Teeth With Baking Soda Step 7 Version 9.jpg
    • The baking soda rinse won't erode your teeth, so it's safe to gargle with it daily.
    • Gargling with a baking soda rinse whitens your teeth indirectly. Baking soda neutralizes acids, so it helps fight dental erosion caused by acidic foods and beverages. It can also help fight bacteria that cause decay and promote good bacteria that create a protective layer on your teeth.[13]

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

  • Avoid brushing your gums with baking soda or hydrogen peroxide.
  • Don't brush a single area of your mouth for too long. Divide 1 to 1 ½ minutes evenly among your top teeth, then brush your bottom teeth for a total of 1 to 1 ½ minutes.
  • Remember not to brush with a mix baking soda and lemon juice or other acidic substances.

[Edit]Warnings

  • See a dentist if you're concerned about whitening your teeth. Stains or discoloration may be signs of problems that require professional dental care.[14]
  • Don't brush your teeth with baking soda or abrasive toothpastes if you have sensitive teeth, which may indicate dental erosion. Brushing with abrasive products will just make matters worse.[15]
  • Avoid brushing with baking soda or hydrogen peroxide if you have braces or a permanent retainer.[16]
  • To prevent uneven coloration or damage to your dental work, don't use hydrogen peroxide or at-home bleaching kits if you have crowns, caps, or veneers.[17]

[Edit]Related wikiHows

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

No comments:

Post a Comment