7/2/10

Many of us are switching to cast iron pans for their ease in cooking and as a healthful alternative to potentially harmful Teflon-coated cookware. Since dishwashers and cast iron pans don't mix, consider cleaning your pans with an all-natural solution: olive oil and coarse salt. Make a paste from lots of salt and about a tablespoon of oil and scrub away the inside of the pan. Rinse away with hot water and dry clean.

7/1/10

With the kitchen becoming the heart of the home, it's easy to overwhelm it with electronic gadgets that make your daily cooking routine easier. Keep in mind that electronic can openers, automatic juicers and wine bottle openers also use electricity, take up space and break down more easily. Sometimes manual tools that can be stashed away in a drawer really are the best tools for a serious cook.

6/30/10

The rule of thumb when replacing an air conditioning unit is to replace it every 12 years. Buying a new unit that is Energy Star qualified can help you save money on your energy bill with increased efficiency. To help you remember when you bought an air conditioner, use a permanent marker to write the month and year somewhere inconspicuous.