The microwave is an essential appliance in every American kitchen. Right? Right. We received a great little Samsung microwave for our wedding and it lasted 9 years. When it failed to heat any longer we purchased a new Kenmore microwave. We have a toddler whom I will call "Little Dude" throughout the blog. Little Dude tends to be really rough on things. For example, he will break toys that have been handed down for ages and held up to years of play. He is just a rough little boy! He thoroughly loved to open and close the microwave door and it turns out all of those slams weren't so good for it. Who knew? So the new microwave (less than 9 months old) failed to work unless we slammed the door as hard as possible and then held it closed.
Instead of replacing the microwave again we just decided to see if we could live without it. My husband was skeptical, but we gave it a try. And you know what? We don't even miss it! We discovered that we only used it for three things: defrosting meat, making popcorn and heating up left overs and my son's milk (I know, it's terrible and we shouldn't have been doing it anyways).
I have an air pop popcorn maker and so our favorite evening snack became even more delicious with melted butter and salt. It really takes no extra time to make it this way and it tastes so much better!
The biggest challenge has been defrosting meat. I have to plan dinner first thing in the morning just to have the meat out and thawing. A minor inconvenience, but now that I am used to it, it isn't so bad. If I forget, we get to have breakfast for dinner. Who doesn't love waffles and eggs for dinner?
A few added bonuses are that food cooked and reheated on the stove or in the oven just taste better, may be better for you and I have lots of extra counter space for my cookbooks :)
So, there you have it, we have been microwave free for almost three months now and don't miss it at all!
What do you think: could you live without your microwave?
Instead of replacing the microwave again we just decided to see if we could live without it. My husband was skeptical, but we gave it a try. And you know what? We don't even miss it! We discovered that we only used it for three things: defrosting meat, making popcorn and heating up left overs and my son's milk (I know, it's terrible and we shouldn't have been doing it anyways).
I have an air pop popcorn maker and so our favorite evening snack became even more delicious with melted butter and salt. It really takes no extra time to make it this way and it tastes so much better!
The biggest challenge has been defrosting meat. I have to plan dinner first thing in the morning just to have the meat out and thawing. A minor inconvenience, but now that I am used to it, it isn't so bad. If I forget, we get to have breakfast for dinner. Who doesn't love waffles and eggs for dinner?
A few added bonuses are that food cooked and reheated on the stove or in the oven just taste better, may be better for you and I have lots of extra counter space for my cookbooks :)
So, there you have it, we have been microwave free for almost three months now and don't miss it at all!
What do you think: could you live without your microwave?
Little Changes - Food Storage
There have been many reports of plastics releasing higher levels of the BPA chemical into food when used in the microwave. Who wants chemicals leaching into their food as it is cooked? I think of all the hundreds of times microwaved my food in those little plastic containers and I cringe. (Now that we no longer have a microwave, this wouldn't really be an issue). See my post on Goodbye Microwave - http://naturalhealthybeautiful.blogspot.com/2013/09/goodbye-microwave-i-dont-miss-you-at-all.html
Many plastics now say BPA free on the packaging, but what other chemicals have they used to replace it and how safe are they? We probably won't know the answer to that until further studies come out several years from now.
So, for our family this little change from plastic to glass was a great one and not terribly expensive.
We are taking simple steps to a more natural, healthier life.
Our second small change in ridding our lives of unnecessary chemicals was to replace all of our plastic food storage containers with glass ones. We bought a wonderful set of Pyrex glass storage containers with lids and then decided that one wasn't enough and bought a second. These bowls come in a variety of sizes and even shapes. They have held up so well through tons of use and washings. I think we have broken one, and that was dropped out of the freezer onto a concrete floor. You can get a great set for about $25 or less if you shop around. And Pyrex is made in the USA.
We also use canning jars to store food. They are handy, fairly inexpensive and they look pretty in a vintage sort of way. I also lucked out when my mom gave me some beautiful Italian glass jars that measure about 1 gallon. I store my oats and coffee in them and keep them right on my counter because they are so lovely.
We also use canning jars to store food. They are handy, fairly inexpensive and they look pretty in a vintage sort of way. I also lucked out when my mom gave me some beautiful Italian glass jars that measure about 1 gallon. I store my oats and coffee in them and keep them right on my counter because they are so lovely.
So why did we decide to toss all that plastic? Mainly because of BPA content. In it's report on BPA the FDA states:
"Studies employing standardized toxicity tests have thus far supported the safety of current low levels of human exposure to BPA. However, on the basis of results from recent studies using novel approaches to test for subtle effects, both the National Toxicology Program at the National Institutes of Health and FDA have some concern about the potential effects of BPA on the brain, behavior, and prostate gland in fetuses, infants, and young children. In cooperation with the National Toxicology Program, FDA’s National Center for Toxicological Research is carrying out in-depth studies to answer key questions and clarify uncertainties about the risks of BPA."
There have been many reports of plastics releasing higher levels of the BPA chemical into food when used in the microwave. Who wants chemicals leaching into their food as it is cooked? I think of all the hundreds of times microwaved my food in those little plastic containers and I cringe. (Now that we no longer have a microwave, this wouldn't really be an issue). See my post on Goodbye Microwave - http://naturalhealthybeautiful.blogspot.com/2013/09/goodbye-microwave-i-dont-miss-you-at-all.html
Many plastics now say BPA free on the packaging, but what other chemicals have they used to replace it and how safe are they? We probably won't know the answer to that until further studies come out several years from now.
So, for our family this little change from plastic to glass was a great one and not terribly expensive.
We are taking simple steps to a more natural, healthier life.
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Little Changes - Cookware
Our journey to healthier, more natural living started with some small changes in our home when an acquaintance casually mentioned all the chemicals we were poisoning ourselves with daily. Wait... What? I knew that everything (from household cleaning products, to shampoo, to our food storage containers) were comprised of synthetic chemicals along with natural elements. However, I had never taken the time to learn about these chemicals or the effects they were having on my body.
I will admit I am an obsessive researcher. If I hear something that disturbs, interests, or challenges me I will research it until I know every detail inside and out about the subject. This acquaintance had mentioned Teflon, BPA and Parabens and that is where my research began. For several days I studied Teflon noting all harmful effects it can have on a person. I studied until I was convinced that it would be best to get rid of the old scratched up Teflon pots and pans and replace them with the safer, harder to clean stainless steel option.
So why is Teflon or polytetrafluoroethylene(PTFE) so harmful? Actually the man made chemical polytetrafluoroethylene isn't the problem, it is the chemical perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) that is used in the process of making PTFE that is dangerous. This chemical is unknowingly consumed when the Teflon pan is scratched and tiny particles break away into the food being cooked. Fumes can also be released into the air when food is cooked at a very high temperature.
The EPA and American Cancer Society websites have some good information about PFOA. While there is not conclusive evidence that it is detrimental to human health there is enough evidence of harmful effects that "EPA and the eight major companies in the industry launched the 2010/15 PFOA Stewardship Program, in which companies committed to reduce global facility emissions and product content of PFOA and related chemicals by 95 percent by 2010, and to work toward eliminating emissions and product content by 2015." -- http://www.epa.gov/oppt/pfoa/
After hours of research, I decided it would be best to toss those old pots and pans and search for a healthier option. After looking at all the cookware options available, from aluminum to cast iron to stainless steel, I decided stainless steel was the best option for our family. Stainless steel is considered one of the safest materials for cooking. The drawback is that it they are definitely not non-stick and take greater effort to clean. Cast iron is also a very good option and I do use a cast iron griddle.
I would encourage you not to just take my word for it, but to do your own research and see what you discover!
I will admit I am an obsessive researcher. If I hear something that disturbs, interests, or challenges me I will research it until I know every detail inside and out about the subject. This acquaintance had mentioned Teflon, BPA and Parabens and that is where my research began. For several days I studied Teflon noting all harmful effects it can have on a person. I studied until I was convinced that it would be best to get rid of the old scratched up Teflon pots and pans and replace them with the safer, harder to clean stainless steel option.
So why is Teflon or polytetrafluoroethylene(PTFE) so harmful? Actually the man made chemical polytetrafluoroethylene isn't the problem, it is the chemical perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) that is used in the process of making PTFE that is dangerous. This chemical is unknowingly consumed when the Teflon pan is scratched and tiny particles break away into the food being cooked. Fumes can also be released into the air when food is cooked at a very high temperature.
The EPA and American Cancer Society websites have some good information about PFOA. While there is not conclusive evidence that it is detrimental to human health there is enough evidence of harmful effects that "EPA and the eight major companies in the industry launched the 2010/15 PFOA Stewardship Program, in which companies committed to reduce global facility emissions and product content of PFOA and related chemicals by 95 percent by 2010, and to work toward eliminating emissions and product content by 2015." -- http://www.epa.gov/oppt/pfoa/
After hours of research, I decided it would be best to toss those old pots and pans and search for a healthier option. After looking at all the cookware options available, from aluminum to cast iron to stainless steel, I decided stainless steel was the best option for our family. Stainless steel is considered one of the safest materials for cooking. The drawback is that it they are definitely not non-stick and take greater effort to clean. Cast iron is also a very good option and I do use a cast iron griddle.
I would encourage you not to just take my word for it, but to do your own research and see what you discover!
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According to my dad, who is in his 70's, we live in the throw-away society. Many of the younger members (age 40 and under) of society buy expensive toys on credit, misuse and abuse said toys, and then throw them away just to turn around and repeat the whole process. Sadly, I think he might be right. I look around and see people buying things they can't afford and then not even taking care of them properly. This can apply to expensive things like homes, cars, furniture or technology and less spendy items like small appliances, tools, or clothes. I'm not sure of the reasons behind this phenomenon, but I am thankful that my mom and dad took the time to instill in me the joy of caring for what I have, be it much or be it little.
All that to say, I want to teach you how to take care of your bamboo utensils and cutting boards so that they last for years and years. I LOVE my bamboo. It isn't excessively expensive, but it holds up so well, especially considering how much I use it. Bamboo is also naturally anti-bacterial, which is fabulous for the cutting boards that are used for meats.
The first rule of thumb when using bamboo is to NEVER put it in the dishwasher. The sanitizing hot water is great for your glass ware, but not for bamboo. The drying cycle is even worse for bamboo and can cause splitting and cracking. To wash, simply use warm water and mild soap. Allow to air dry.
In addition to hand-washing, it is necessary to oil your bamboo regularly. When bamboo is brand new it is important to "season" it by conditioning it once per week. After a month of weekly oilings you should only need to oil them once per month.
I have read several websites suggesting the use of food grade mineral oil. As a rule, I generally don't like mineral oil as it is a petroleum product. It is also difficult to find and expensive. I decided to try coconut oil and the results were amazing!
The process was simple:
I melted a scoop of coconut oil in a hot water bath.
Using a paper towel moistened with the melted oil I gently rubbed all of my bamboo.
I left everything to absorb and soak in for 24 hours.
Lastly, I rinsed everything in luke wark water and allowed it to air dry. The result? Naturally conditioned bamboo utensils and cutting boards. I love knowing that I can use them for years to come and won't have to run out and buy new ones every few months because of cracks. My dad would be so proud! Natural, Healthy, Well-Cared For Bamboo!
10 Fabulous Uses for Vinegar
I LOVE vinegar. It has so many incredible uses, it's natural, it disinfects and it's inexpensive. What is not to love? One bottle of vinegar can truly replace a number of household cleaning products. Here is a list of my favorite vinegar uses...
1. Disinfect household surfaces. Countertops, door jams and knobs, light switches, and other highly used surfaces should be wiped down regularly to eliminate germs. You can use a 50/50 solution of vinegar and water or a lemon infused vinegar solution. See my All Purpose Vinegar-Lemon Cleaner recipe below.
2. Make mirrors and windows sparkle. 50/50 solution of vinegar and water. Traditional glass cleaners do not even compare to the streakless, sparkling shine that vinegar produces. I just put my solution in a spray bottle, spray on window or mirror and wipe with a an old t-shirt rag.
3. Polish chrome and stainless fixtures. I spray pure vinegar on all of our faucets and fixtures and wipe with a soft cloth. The result is fabulous. No streaks, just shine.
4. Shine up hardwood floors. 50/50 solution of vinegar and water sprayed on floor and wiped up for gleaming, clean floors.
5. Sanitize sinks, tubs and toilets. This works especially well if you sprinkle a little baking soda in first and then spray vinegar onto the surface. Scrub, rinse, and enjoy the results.
6. Clean the oven. Again sprinkle baking soda, spray vinegar, scrub, wipe clean with a warm wet washcloth.
7. Refresh your coffee pot. You know when your coffee gets a strange bitter taste? It's because your coffee pot needs a good cleaning. Fill the pot with full strength vinegar, run it through, and then follow twice with hot water. You will be amazed how much better your coffee tastes after doing this!
8. Wash your produce. Produce is covered with dirt, pesticides, and waxes. Before consuming fill your clean sink with cold water, add a cup of vinegar and soak produce for 5-10 minutes. Rinse produce and dry. You can eat it immediately or store it. For some reason this vinegar rinse also helps prolong the freshness of produce.
9. Extend the life of cut flowers. Add 2 tablespoons of vinegar mixed with 3 tablespoons of sugar to the vase water to keep flowers looking beautiful.
10. Kill grass and weeds in sidewalk cracks. Simply spray full strength vinegar onto grass and weeds in the sidewalk and they will wither and die. (Don't spray weeds in your lawn or garden because it will kill grass and other plants around them!)
Vinegar has many, many more uses, but this is a good start for everyday use around your home!
If you have other uses for vinegar I would love to hear them. Share in the comments section below :)
~All Purpose Vinegar-Lemon Cleaner~
Take squeezed lemons and place peels in a large glass containers. Fill container with distilled white vinegar and cover. Allow the mixture to set for at least 24 hours. Finally, strain the lemon infused vinegar into a spray bottle and it is ready to go.
1. Disinfect household surfaces. Countertops, door jams and knobs, light switches, and other highly used surfaces should be wiped down regularly to eliminate germs. You can use a 50/50 solution of vinegar and water or a lemon infused vinegar solution. See my All Purpose Vinegar-Lemon Cleaner recipe below.
2. Make mirrors and windows sparkle. 50/50 solution of vinegar and water. Traditional glass cleaners do not even compare to the streakless, sparkling shine that vinegar produces. I just put my solution in a spray bottle, spray on window or mirror and wipe with a an old t-shirt rag.
3. Polish chrome and stainless fixtures. I spray pure vinegar on all of our faucets and fixtures and wipe with a soft cloth. The result is fabulous. No streaks, just shine.
4. Shine up hardwood floors. 50/50 solution of vinegar and water sprayed on floor and wiped up for gleaming, clean floors.
5. Sanitize sinks, tubs and toilets. This works especially well if you sprinkle a little baking soda in first and then spray vinegar onto the surface. Scrub, rinse, and enjoy the results.
6. Clean the oven. Again sprinkle baking soda, spray vinegar, scrub, wipe clean with a warm wet washcloth.
7. Refresh your coffee pot. You know when your coffee gets a strange bitter taste? It's because your coffee pot needs a good cleaning. Fill the pot with full strength vinegar, run it through, and then follow twice with hot water. You will be amazed how much better your coffee tastes after doing this!
8. Wash your produce. Produce is covered with dirt, pesticides, and waxes. Before consuming fill your clean sink with cold water, add a cup of vinegar and soak produce for 5-10 minutes. Rinse produce and dry. You can eat it immediately or store it. For some reason this vinegar rinse also helps prolong the freshness of produce.
9. Extend the life of cut flowers. Add 2 tablespoons of vinegar mixed with 3 tablespoons of sugar to the vase water to keep flowers looking beautiful.
10. Kill grass and weeds in sidewalk cracks. Simply spray full strength vinegar onto grass and weeds in the sidewalk and they will wither and die. (Don't spray weeds in your lawn or garden because it will kill grass and other plants around them!)
Vinegar has many, many more uses, but this is a good start for everyday use around your home!
If you have other uses for vinegar I would love to hear them. Share in the comments section below :)
~All Purpose Vinegar-Lemon Cleaner~
Take squeezed lemons and place peels in a large glass containers. Fill container with distilled white vinegar and cover. Allow the mixture to set for at least 24 hours. Finally, strain the lemon infused vinegar into a spray bottle and it is ready to go.
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