Spring cleaning-which no longer has to happen in the spring-is a good example. In the Victorian era, warmer weather meant you could stop burning coals and start cleaning the blackish coal dust off the furnishings. Today's methods of heating are cleaner and don't require such a dramatic seasonal cleanup.
Pungent cleaning chemicals were introduced in the 1940s for removing tough stains both on white textiles and in ovens. The experience of spring cleaning was harsh on noses, eyes and throats.
Now, more organic and environmentally-friendly cleaning solutions are emerging. For dust stains on cotton curtains and drapes, use white vinegar and water to remove discoloration. Shine chrome furniture with cider vinegar, which is also great at removing pet odors.
Pour half a cup each of baking soda and vinegar, followed two minutes later by two quarts of boiling water, down kitchen and bathroom drains to keep them clean. Pour vanilla on a cotton ball, simmer cinnamon in water or use an herbal bouquet for a spring-scented home.
One of the latest updates is in trash cans. Most Americans begrudgingly take out their trash more than twice a week. More than 50 percent would rather wash dirty, piled-high moldy dishes than take out the trash. Since trash is an inevitable fact of life, it may just be a good idea to invest in a new type of trash can that is durable and more sanitary. For example, a new type of trash can, developed by Magikan, comes with a gently yet unobtrusively scented continuous liner that puts an end to pulling heavy, messy trash bags out and, most importantly, from touching germy, repulsive old garbage.
This new trash can is made from industrial-strength plastic and features a self-sealing lid that eliminates odors and a spill-free rim that ensures that all trash and liquids fall into the garbage bag. This means never having to lift a garbage bag up and out of the trash can again.
