Sunday, September 8, 2019

How to of the Day

How to of the Day


How to Clean the Bottom of an Oven

Posted: 08 Sep 2019 05:00 PM PDT

Cleaning the gunk that's built up on the bottom of your oven may seem like a difficult task. But it's actually really simple, and you have a variety of cleaning options to choose from. Whether you decide to use an industrial oven cleaner or a more natural alternative, you first have to prepare your oven to be cleaned.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Using the Self-Cleaning Cycle

  1. Clear out the oven before you clean it. Take out all of the oven racks so you can reach and clean the bottom more easily. Remove any other items like a pizza stone or any trays that may have been left in there.[1]

    Clean the Bottom of an Oven Step 1.jpg
  2. Remove large food particles from the bottom of the oven. Use an old sponge, paper towels, or a cloth to scrub off large bits of food and grease that may have collected on the bottom of your oven. Lots of built up grease and food can prevent a cleaning solution from being effective.[2]

    • A cleaning solution will be more effective when it's applied directly to the surface of the bottom of the oven, rather than a large chunk of food.
  3. Use your oven's self-cleaning cycle. If your oven has a self-cleaning cycle, allow it to run until it's finished. Self-cleaning cycles will bake the grease and food particles and make them dry and crispy so they're easier to remove.[3]
    Clean the Bottom of an Oven Step 3.jpg
    • Depending on your oven, self-cleaning cycles can take up to 3 hours.
  4. Wipe the bottom of your oven with a damp rag or paper towel. After your oven has finished its self-cleaning cycle, there will be a layer of ash on the bottom of the oven. Use a damp cloth or paper towel to remove all of the ash from the inside of your oven before you add any cleaning solutions or it could cake together.[4]

[Edit]Applying an Industrial Cleaning Product

  1. Put on rubber cleaning gloves and safety glasses. Chemical oven cleaners can be really caustic and can burn your skin and eyes. Wear safety glasses and a pair of sturdy rubber cleaning gloves to create a heavy-duty barrier between your skin and the oven cleaner.[5]
    Clean the Bottom of an Oven Step 5.jpg
    • Don't use disposable gloves as they may not be enough to prevent the cleaner from getting onto your skin.
  2. Lay down newspapers or paper towels on the floor in front of the oven. When you apply the oven cleaner to the bottom of your oven, some of it may spill or run out of the oven. Use newspapers or paper towels to soak up any excess cleaner.[6]

  3. Spray the cleaner onto the bottom of the oven using a sweeping motion. Hold the spray can of cleaner about from the surface of the bottom of the oven and apply the cleaner using back and forth sweeping motions.[7]

  4. Let the cleaner sit for at least 30 minutes. Check the can to see the specific waiting time, but most oven cleaners need to sit for 30 minutes before you wipe it clean. Don't disturb the oven while the cleaner is working.[8]
    Clean the Bottom of an Oven Step 8.jpg
    • Keep the oven closed so the fumes are contained.
  5. Wipe the bottom of the oven clean with a damp cloth. After the oven cleaner has been allowed to sit for 30 minutes, open the oven and use a damp cloth to wipe the bottom clean. If there are any sticky patches of residue, you can use a scrub brush or sponge to scrub it.[9]

    • Get into the corners and crevices to remove all of the dirt and the cleaner.

[Edit]Using Natural Cleaning Alternatives

  1. Use baking soda and vinegar to clean without toxic chemicals. Mix of baking soda with of water in a bowl, and mix it to form a thick paste. Spread the paste on the bottom of your oven and let it sit for 12 hours, or overnight. Then wipe the bottom of your oven with a damp cloth. Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar, spray the inside of the oven, and wipe away the foamy mixture.[10]

    • The white vinegar will react with the baking soda and make a foamy cleaning mixture.
    • You don't need to let the foam sit in the oven. Wipe the oven clean right after you spray the vinegar.
    • If you're in a hurry, apply the baking soda paste, let it sit for 15 minutes, and then spray it with vinegar and wipe it away.
  2. Bake lemons in your oven to clean the bottom. Preheat your oven to and fill an oven-safe bowl about ⅓ of the way full with clean water. Slice 2 lemons in half and squeeze the juice into the water and then drop the lemons into the bowl of water. Place the bowl on a center rack and let it bake for 1 hour, then use a damp cloth to wipe the bottom of your oven.[11]

    • Let the oven cool down enough to where it's still warm, but you can reach into it to wipe the bottom.
    • Use a wet scouring pumice or microfiber sponge to scrub difficult stains.
  3. Spread salt onto the bottom of the oven to clean it. Preheat your oven to and sprinkle regular table salt all over the bottom of the oven. Put on oven mitts to protect your hands and use a damp sponge or rag to scrub the bottom of the oven while the oven is still warm.[12]
    Clean the Bottom of an Oven Step 12.jpg
    • The salt acts as an abrasive and will make the grime easy to wipe away.

[Edit]Tips

  • Clean your oven regularly, especially right after a spill. The longer you go between cleanings, the harder it is to clean up the mess.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

[Edit]Using the Self-Cleaning Cycle

  • Cloth, rag, sponge, or paper towels

[Edit]Applying an Industrial Cleaning Product

  • Rubber cleaning gloves
  • Newspapers or paper towels
  • Spray oven cleaner

[Edit]Using Natural Cleaning Alternatives

  • of baking soda
  • Bowl (to mix)
  • White vinegar
  • Spray bottle
  • 2 lemons
  • Table salt
  • Scouring pumice or microfiber sponge (optional)

[Edit]References

How to Use Hyaluronic Acid

Posted: 08 Sep 2019 09:00 AM PDT

Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in your body and helps retain moisture in the skin and repair the skin's natural barriers. As you age, the amount of hyaluronic acid produced depletes causing your skin to lose moisture, so it's important to replenish it. By choosing the correct hyaluronic acid products or treatments and applying them properly, you can rejuvenate your skin and return it to its former glory.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Choosing a Hyaluronic Acid Serum

  1. Buy a serum with a mix of molecule sizes to penetrate the skin. Hyaluronic acid molecules are normally too large to pass through the layers of the skin.[1] You'll want to find a product that provides a variety of molecule sizes to get better benefits from topical application.
    Use Hyaluronic Acid Step 1.jpg
    • Lower molecular weights can go deeper into the skin.
    • Not all products list these, so it's best to research online or ask the manufacturer for more details.
  2. Use a water-based serum if you have oily/combination skin. This will help you avoid introducing too many unnecessary oils to your skin.[2]
    Use Hyaluronic Acid Step 2.jpg
  3. Find a water or oil-based serum for dry/normal skin. Topically applied, oil-based products will hold water on your dry skin's surface and hydrate cells without blocking pores.[3]
    Use Hyaluronic Acid Step 3.jpg
  4. Test your product first to see if your skin reacts. Apply hyaluronic acid somewhere discreet, like behind your ear to test the effect on your skin.[4] It is unlikely to cause a reaction as it occurs naturally in the body.
    Use Hyaluronic Acid Step 4.jpg
    • Use once per day or every other day initially to ensure it's safe in the long term
  5. Cleanse and tone your face as you normally would. Follow your regular skin cleansing routine up until before you add moisturizer.
    Use Hyaluronic Acid Step 5.jpg
  6. Apply a thin layer of hyaluronic acid serum to damp skin. Having moisture already on the skin allows your choose hyaluronic acid serum to be absorbed better.[5] Hyaluronic acid works by retaining moisture, so you'll need to give it something to work with.
    Use Hyaluronic Acid Step 6.jpg
  7. Use hyaluronic acid serum in the morning and at night. In the morning, it can give your skin additional moisture to soften it throughout the day. Used at night time, hyaluronic acid will help replenish the moisture lost during your day's activities.[6]
    Use Hyaluronic Acid Step 7.jpg

[Edit]Using a Hyaluronic Acid Cream

  1. Choose a hyaluronic acid cream to lock in moisture. Since moisturizing creams sit on the surface of the skin, they work to hold moisture within the skin's surface. Adding hyaluronic acid moisturizer to your existing skincare regime will give you the best results from your hyaluronic acid treatment.[7]
    Use Hyaluronic Acid Step 8.jpg
  2. Look for a concentration of at least 0.1% hyaluronic acid in your cream. Any less than this and you'll reduce the effectiveness of the moisturizing cream. Studies show that this level of hyaluronic acid is effective for hydrating skin and maintaining skin elasticity.[8]
    Use Hyaluronic Acid Step 9.jpg
    • If you have sensitive skin, you may want to keep to lower strength hyaluronic acid formula so you don't risk a reaction or dryness.
  3. Add hyaluronic acid to your existing moisturizer. If you have a moisturizer that works for your skin already, simply add hyaluronic acid to this to utilize its benefits.[9]
    Use Hyaluronic Acid Step 10.jpg
    • Research the ingredients in your product to ensure you'll achieve the correct concentration of hyaluronic acid.
  4. Apply as often as required. It is safe to use hyaluronic acid every time you follow your skincare routine. This will depend on your individual routine and requirements, but the addition of hyaluronic acid will not affect these timings.
    Use Hyaluronic Acid Step 11.jpg

[Edit]Getting Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

  1. Consult a dermatologist to use hyaluronic acid for healing skin. If you're looking to heal lines or scars, ask a medical professional about hyaluronic acid dermal filler injections. Since this allows the hyaluronic acid to penetrate beneath the first layers of skin, it is a more effective way to heal skin on a molecular level.[10]
    Use Hyaluronic Acid Step 12.jpg
  2. Choose a licensed healthcare provider. Do your research beforehand and ask about their experience with dermal injections, and discuss treatment options before going ahead with hyaluronic acid filler treatments. Ensure they are using approved substances, depending on your region's laws.[11]
    Use Hyaluronic Acid Step 13.jpg
  3. Know the risks of dermal fillers. Side effects of hyaluronic acid fillers include redness, swelling, itching and pain at the injection site. In rare instances, you may experience more serious side effects, so it is important to discuss this with your healthcare provider and understand the risks.
    Use Hyaluronic Acid Step 14.jpg

[Edit]Tips

  • Hyaluronic acid products can be purchased at beauty supply stores, and some may be available at your local supermarket.
  • If you have never used hyaluronic acid before, consult a beauty salon or dermatologist to see if it's the best option for you.

[Edit]Warnings

  • Never get injectable fillers in an unlicensed practice or from an unlicensed provider.
  • As with all skincare products, if you experience any adverse effects from hyaluronic acid, stop using it immediately and consult a medical professional if symptoms persist.
  • Avoid buying dermal fillers online or using them yourself without medical supervision.

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

How to Decorate a Flower Pot

Posted: 08 Sep 2019 01:00 AM PDT

Flowers are colorful and inviting, but sometimes the planters they're in can be a bit drab. If you want to spice up your home or garden, decorate your flower pots with paint, decoupage, or intricate mosaics. A chic planter can totally tie together your decor and show your personality!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Painting Your Flower Pot

  1. Clean your flower pot. No matter what material your flower pot is made from, make sure the areas you want to paint are clean. Use soap and water if there is any lingering dirt or dust. A spotless surface will help your painting last.
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 1.jpg
    • Remove any stickers or price tags.
    • If you're painting a terracotta pot, soak it in water for a few hours first. Scrub the entire thing with a stiff brush to get rid of dust or dirt. Wait 24 hours before painting, as terracotta is porous and will stay wet for a long time.[1]
    • Allow your flower pot to dry completely before painting.
  2. Choose acrylic paints in the colors of your choice. The color possibilities are pretty much endless, but make sure you use acrylic paints.[2] Acrylic dries extremely quickly and is water-resistant when dry. It works on terracotta, clay, plastic, and ceramic.
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 2.jpg
    • Use spray paint or liquid paint, as long as it's acrylic. Spray paint is a faster option, but liquid will allow you to use brushes and get a detailed design.
    • If your planter will be staying outside, you can use an outdoor paint meant for withstanding weather.
  3. Plan out your design. Take a look at your pot and decide what look you're going for. If your planter is going to be inside, think about what might look good with the color of your walls or floor. If it's going to be outside, think about what colors might pop in your yard or garden.
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 3.jpg
    • Use tape to segment off sections if you only want to paint certain parts.
    • Add words to label herb plants to offer little motivational phrases.
    • A pure white flower pot is a sleek, modern option.
    • Use stencils to creative intricate shapes.
  4. Paint the first coat. There are no limits to what you can paint onto your flower pots, so let your creative juices flow! Use a large foam brush to put down a base coat. Choose a single color so you have a simple canvas to decorate further.
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 4.jpg
    • Put down newspaper or towels and wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty.
    • If you want to leave half of your pot unpainted, tape off that section.
  5. Let your flower pot dry. A dry base coat will make sure the next application won't smudge or run. Be patient!
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 5.jpg
    • If you want a solid, single-color flower pot, it might be done already!
  6. Apply a second layer of paint. Use foam brushes of all sizes to complete the look. Reapply the base coat if you want a more vivid color, otherwise go ahead and create your piece of art. Use whatever stencils, brushes, sponges, or freehand techniques you want.
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 6.jpg
  7. Apply a clear sealer once your design is dry. When you're happy with your new piece of art, it's time to make sure everything stays in place. To prevent fading or chipping, apply at least two layers of clear, water based acrylic sealer.[3] Get an acrylic sealer from your local craft store.
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 7.jpg
    • It may take a few days for the paint to dry if you used several coats of paint.
    • Using spray sealer is recommended, but you can also get cans of varnish and paint in on. This might leave brushstrokes behind.
    • Choose a matte or shiny finish depending on what you like.
    • Once protected, a painted design can last for years!

[Edit]Decorating Your Flower Pot with Decoupage

  1. Clean your flower pot. Decoupage glue sticks best to clean, dry surfaces. Get rid of any dirt or dust with water and soap, then dry your flower pot completely.
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 8.jpg
    • Remove any stickers or price tags.
  2. Find decoupage material from books, magazines, or newspapers. Carefully cut out pictures of flowers, birds, or whatever fits your aesthetic. Cut out enough to cover the entire pot or cut out one small design for the front. It's totally up to you how much decoupage you want!
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 9.jpg
    • It can be fun to use patterns or colors that contrast with the type of plant you'll be using in the planter.
    • Try geometric shapes cut from solid paper for a modern style.
    • You can also use decorative fabric, paper napkins, or wallpaper.
  3. Brush Mod Podge or craft glue onto your pot. You can find glue meant for decoupage at any craft store, and usually it's pretty cheap. Use a foam brush to saturate the designated area as evenly as possible.
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 10.jpg
    • Wear gloves to keep glue off your skin.
    • A thin layer will do.
  4. Apply your decoupage cutout. While the glue is still wet, carefully place the piece of decoupage onto the flower pot. Go slow to make sure the placement is exactly how you want it.[4]
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 11.jpg
    • If you make a mistake, you might be able to peel it off and try again, but try to get it right the first time.
    • Smooth out any bubbles with your hands or a squeegee tool.
  5. Add another layer of Mod Podge. Using a foam brush, apply a generous layer over your decoupage piece to keep it in place. This will make sure it's protected from wetness when you water your plant.[5]
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 12.jpg
    • Allow your decoupage to dry completely before touching or moving the flower pot.
    • Paint it on slowly evenly to minimize brush lines.
    • Don't worry, Mod Podge will dry clear.
    • Mod Podge might have a slightly sticky texture even when dry.[6]
  6. Apply a sealer. Just like with paint, you'll need to protect your decoupage from scratches and weathering. Put at least two coats of clear, water based acrylic varnish over your lovely work.[7]
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 13.jpg

[Edit]Creating a Mosaic on Your Flower Pot

  1. Find something to break into your mosaic pieces. While it is possible to buy small pieces of glass or tile, it can be fun to make your own, unique shapes. Buy household tiling from a hardware store, a ceramic plate from a thrift store, or some interesting glassware from a garage sale.
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 14.jpg
    • Mirrors can look really neat on a flower pot.
    • If you have any damaged dishware in your kitchen, use that!
  2. Break your chosen item into small pieces. Wrap your tile or plate in a thick cloth and strike it with a hammer. This can be a fun process, but you'll only need one or two hits. Take a look the shards to see if they're small enough. If not, feel free to wrap it up and hit it again.
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 15.jpg
    • Try to get a variety of shapes and sizes.
    • If needed, modify tile or ceramic pieces with cutting pliers.
    • Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.
    • Wear cloth gloves to protect your hands.
  3. Lie a clean flower pot down and mosaic one side at a time. Otherwise, gravity might mess up your design. Cradle the pot in a towel to keep it from rolling away. With a butter knife, apply tile adhesive onto each piece and place them according to your design. Press hard onto the side of the pot to make sure they stay attached.
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 16.jpg
    • Spell out your initials or name for a personal touch.
    • The consistency of the adhesive should be like peanut butter.[8]
    • Wear cloth/gardening gloves to keep the adhesive from getting on your skin.
  4. Let each side set for a couple hours, then rotate. When turning your pot, make sure that the pieces you already places don't come loose. Rotate carefully and slowly, and use the towel to keep it steady.[9]
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 17.jpg
  5. Let your flower pot sit overnight. This will give the tile adhesive time to dry, and makes sure your mosaic will last. If you notice any pieces slipping, adjust them and press them back into place.
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 18.jpg
  6. Spread grout between the pieces of your mosaic. It's a messy process, sure, but having grout between the tile or ceramic pieces will complete the look. Use a grout float to flatten and spread out the cement-like substance.
    Decorate a Flower Pot Step 19.jpg
    • Mosaics can be intricate and small, so make sure you get every crevice.
    • Wait 15 minutes, and then wipe away any excess with a damp cloth.[10]
    • Wear gloves.
    • Grout will take a few days to dry fully.
    • After it's dry, clean everything will a soft, dry cloth.

[Edit]Tips

  • If you're using a terracotta planter, you may want to coat the inside with a sealer to keep moisture from seeping through and damaging your decorations.[11]
  • If you don't like how your paint job turned out, just paint over it!
  • Make sure everything is dry before you fill your flowerpot with dirt and a plant.

[Edit]Warnings

  • Protect your floor or tabletop from paint and glue with newspapers.
  • Wear gloves and safety glasses when shattering tiling or glass.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

[Edit]Painting Your Flower Pot

  • Clean flower pot
  • Acrylic paints of assorted colors, spray or liquid
  • Foam brushes of varying sizes
  • Stencils
  • Newspaper or towels
  • Clear spray acrylic varnish, spray or liquid

[Edit]Decorating Your Flower Pot with Decoupage

  • Clean flower pot
  • Scissors
  • Gloves
  • Decoupage paper
  • Mod Podge or other decoupage glue
  • Clear spray acrylic varnish, spray or liquid

[Edit]Creating a Mosaic on Your Flower Pot

  • Clean flower pots
  • Mosaic tiles or glass
  • Hammer
  • Gloves
  • Safety glasses
  • Tile adhesive
  • Butter knife
  • Towel or cloth
  • Grout
  • Grout float

[Edit]Related WikiHows

  • Do Mosaics
  • Decoupage
  • Mix Grout

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

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