posted January 09, 2009 12:44 AM
1) Pots and pans. Aluminium makes me nervous. Is stainless steel better? Or something else?A.
Stainless Steel. Avoid Teflon and other non stick ones if scratched.
2) Tap water is nasty. I drink bottled but am unsure if this is any healthier - it certainly tastes better. We will be using tap water in cooking, the kettle, bathing etc. so I wonder what, if anything, can/should be done. I will refer to the post here about water too.
A.
We use a Britta Filter for consumed water.
Want to get an inline one soon.
3) I have cut a lot of chemicals out these past couple of years. I wonder if using more friendly cleaning products will be beneficial? Any particular brand? (I am in England). I do still want to use ready made solutions just with less chemicals.
A.
Vinegar for glass.
Baking Soda for scouring, with a bit of salt if more grit is needed. Elbow grease using plain steel pads or copper/brass.
Non scented clothes and dish soap.
Murphy's Oilsoap is good too.
Old Dutch and Barkeeper's Friend are some of the safer cleansers.
4) I heard that some energy-saving light bulbs contain mercury enough to be dangerous when broken. Can I purchase light bulbs with ease or is there more to think about?
A.
Be careful not to break them. They are overall better than incandecsants.
5) Any other household items that I should be wary of?
A.
Basically if it is labeled toxic, avoid it or use only as really needed. Bleach is a good example.
Congratulations on your new abode!
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Life is not about waiting for the storms to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain.