Many of us use essential oils to concoct homemade beauty and cleaning products. But if you think all essential oils are totally natural, think again. If the words “naturally derived” are on the bottle, that doesn’t mean it’s totally plant-based. On the contrary, it means that the molecular structure of whatever flower or plant the oil is from was made in a laboratory. In other words, it’s artificial. Generally speaking, essential oils from inexpensive plants like peppermint and rosemary are usually all-natural, and both are good choices for whatever you’re making at home.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Got annoying fruit flies in the kitchen? Trap them with the help of an old banana peel. Simply take a large plastic container (like an empty quart-size yogurt container) and punch a few small holes in the lid using a nail and hammer. Then place the banana peel inside and seal it shut. The scent of rotting, sugary fruit will attract the flies, which will crawl through the holes and then be unable to get back out. After a few days, empty the peel and bugs into the compost and place the plastic container in the recycling bin.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

A kitchen sink can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, mold and germs. Instead of reaching for chlorine bleach to disinfect it, use common household ingredients like white vinegar and lemon juice to sanitize your sink. Rub the sink with a cut lemon and spray white vinegar all over the sink, faucet and handles, then wait 30 minutes. The high acidity level of both ingredients will kill most household germs and bacteria. Wipe clean with a damp towel.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION