Ranking Hot Tubs

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. Jacuzzi: Jacuzzi is widely regarded as one of the most reputable hot tub manufacturers. They have a long history and are known for their innovation, high-quality craftsmanship, and advanced hydrotherapy features. Jacuzzi hot tubs often receive positive reviews for their performance, durability, and luxurious design.

2. Sundance Spas: Sundance Spas is a well-established brand known for its high-quality hot tubs. They offer a range of models with various sizes and features, including advanced hydrotherapy systems and energy-efficient designs. Sundance Spas hot tubs are appreciated for their durability, comfort, and reliability.

3. Hot Spring: Hot Spring is recognized for its reliable and well-built hot tubs. They offer a wide range of models with advanced features such as targeted jet systems, energy-efficient designs, and user-friendly controls. Hot Spring hot tubs often receive positive feedback for their performance, comfort, and long lifespan.

4. Bullfrog Spas: Bullfrog Spas is known for its innovative design and customizable jet systems. Their unique JetPak technology allows users to personalize their hot tub experience. Bullfrog Spas hot tubs are recognized for their quality construction, energy efficiency, and customizable features.

5. Caldera Spas: Caldera Spas offers a range of hot tubs known for their therapeutic benefits and comfort. They prioritize relaxation and wellness features, including targeted jets and ergonomic seating. Caldera Spas hot tubs often receive positive reviews for their performance, durability, and soothing experience.

6. Master Spas: Master Spas is a reputable brand known for its well-built hot tubs with various features and sizes. They offer a range of models, including swim spas, that are appreciated for their quality construction, powerful jet systems, and energy-efficient designs.

7. Viking Spas: Viking Spas is known for its affordable hot tub options without compromising on quality. They offer a variety of models with different features and sizes. Viking Spas hot tubs often receive positive feedback for their value for money, durability, and decent performance.

8. American Spas: American Spas offers a range of hot tubs known for their affordability and quality. They provide a variety of models with features such as hydrotherapy jets, LED lighting, and efficient heating systems. American Spas hot tubs are appreciated for their value, durability, and ease of use.

Ranking Stand Mixers

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. KitchenAid: KitchenAid is widely regarded as the leader in stand mixer manufacturing. They have a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality stand mixers that are durable, powerful, and versatile. KitchenAid stand mixers are appreciated for their iconic design, wide range of color options, and compatibility with a variety of attachments. They often receive positive reviews for their performance in mixing and kneading tasks, as well as their reliability.

2. Bosch: Bosch is recognized for manufacturing high-quality kitchen appliances, including stand mixers. Bosch stand mixers are known for their robust construction, powerful motors, and precision mixing capabilities. They often receive positive feedback for their durability, quiet operation, and versatile attachments. Bosch's reputation for engineering excellence contributes to their ranking.

3. Cuisinart: Cuisinart is a reputable brand in the kitchen appliance industry, offering a range of stand mixers. Cuisinart stand mixers are appreciated for their performance, versatility, and user-friendly features. They often receive positive reviews for their powerful motors, multiple speed options, and durable construction. Cuisinart's reputation for quality kitchen appliances adds to their ranking.

4. Kenwood: Kenwood is a well-known manufacturer of kitchen appliances, including stand mixers. Kenwood stand mixers are recognized for their solid build quality, powerful motors, and extensive range of attachments. They often receive positive feedback for their versatility in handling various mixing tasks and their ability to handle larger quantities of ingredients. Kenwood's reputation and product diversity contribute to their ranking.

5. Smeg: Smeg is a renowned brand that offers stylish and retro-inspired stand mixers. Smeg stand mixers are known for their aesthetic appeal, solid performance, and durable construction. They often receive positive reviews for their user-friendly features, ease of use, and compatibility with various attachments. Smeg's reputation for design and quality craftsmanship adds to their ranking.

Microwave Ovens Ranked

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. Panasonic: Panasonic is widely regarded as one of the most reputable microwave oven manufacturers. They are known for producing high-quality microwaves with advanced features, precise cooking performance, and durable construction. Panasonic microwaves often receive positive reviews for their even heating, intuitive controls, and reliability.

2. Samsung: Samsung is a prominent player in the microwave oven market and has gained a strong reputation for its innovative features and stylish designs. Samsung microwaves often receive positive feedback for their cooking performance, convenience features such as sensor cooking, and user-friendly interfaces. Samsung's reputation as a trusted brand in consumer electronics contributes to their ranking.

3. LG: LG is known for producing microwaves that offer a combination of performance and convenience features. LG microwaves often receive positive reviews for their even cooking results, intuitive controls, and sleek designs. LG's reputation for quality home appliances adds to their ranking.

4. Whirlpool: Whirlpool is a reputable brand in the appliance industry and offers a range of microwaves known for their reliability and ease of use. Whirlpool microwaves often receive positive feedback for their cooking performance, durability, and value for money. Whirlpool's reputation and brand recognition contribute to their ranking.

5. Sharp: Sharp is recognized for its microwave ovens that focus on simplicity and functionality. Sharp microwaves often receive positive reviews for their reliable performance, intuitive controls, and spacious interiors. They are also appreciated for their affordable pricing and durability.

6. GE Appliances: GE Appliances is a well-known brand that produces a variety of kitchen appliances, including microwaves. GE microwaves often receive positive feedback for their cooking performance, solid construction, and user-friendly features. GE Appliances' reputation and market presence contribute to their ranking.

7. Bosch: Bosch is known for its high-quality home appliances, and their microwave ovens reflect their commitment to performance and durability. Bosch microwaves often receive positive reviews for their cooking precision, sleek design, and advanced features. Bosch's reputation for engineering excellence adds to their ranking.

 

Ranking Air Fryers

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. Philips: Philips is widely regarded as a leader in the air fryer market. They were one of the first manufacturers to introduce air fryers to the market and have consistently delivered high-quality products. Philips air fryers often receive positive reviews for their performance, cooking results, and durability. They are known for their innovative technology, reliable heating elements, and user-friendly features.

2. Ninja: Ninja is a reputable brand that offers a range of kitchen appliances, including air fryers. Ninja air fryers are appreciated for their versatility, performance, and convenience features. They often receive positive feedback for their cooking precision, ease of use, and wide range of functions beyond air frying, such as roasting and dehydrating.

3. Cosori: Cosori has gained a strong reputation in the air fryer market by offering reliable and feature-rich products. Cosori air fryers often receive positive reviews for their cooking performance, ease of use, and durability. They are known for their user-friendly interface, wide temperature range, and large cooking capacity.

4. Instant Pot: Instant Pot is recognized for its multifunctional kitchen appliances, and their air fryers are no exception. Instant Pot air fryers often receive positive feedback for their versatility, cooking performance, and ease of use. They are appreciated for their combination of air frying, roasting, baking, and reheating functions.

5. GoWISE USA: GoWISE USA offers a variety of air fryers known for their affordability and performance. GoWISE USA air fryers often receive positive reviews for their cooking results, user-friendly controls, and compact designs. They are recognized for offering value for money and a range of models to suit different needs and budgets.

6. Chefman: Chefman is known for producing affordable and reliable air fryers. Chefman air fryers often receive positive feedback for their cooking performance, compact size, and user-friendly controls. They are appreciated for their simplicity and ease of use.

 

Ranking of Ice Cream Makers

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. Cuisinart: Cuisinart is widely regarded as a reputable brand in the ice cream maker market. They offer a range of ice cream makers known for their performance, reliability, and user-friendly features. Cuisinart ice cream makers often receive positive reviews for their freezing efficiency, ease of use, and versatility in making various frozen desserts.

2. Breville: Breville is recognized for its high-quality kitchen appliances, including ice cream makers. Breville ice cream makers often receive positive feedback for their advanced features, efficient freezing technology, and durable construction. They are appreciated for their ability to make creamy and smooth ice cream.

3. KitchenAid: KitchenAid is known for its versatile and reliable kitchen appliances, including ice cream makers. KitchenAid ice cream makers often receive positive reviews for their solid build quality, easy-to-use design, and compatibility with KitchenAid stand mixers. They are appreciated for their wide range of available attachments and accessories.

4. Whynter: Whynter offers a variety of ice cream makers known for their efficient freezing capabilities and user-friendly operation. Whynter ice cream makers often receive positive feedback for their compact size, quick freezing times, and simple controls. They are recognized for their affordability and value for money.

5. Nostalgia Electrics: Nostalgia Electrics specializes in retro-style kitchen appliances, including ice cream makers. Nostalgia Electrics ice cream makers often receive positive reviews for their nostalgic design, ease of use, and reasonable pricing. They are appreciated for their simplicity and ability to make small-batch ice cream.

6. Hamilton Beach: Hamilton Beach offers a range of affordable ice cream makers suitable for home use. Hamilton Beach ice cream makers often receive positive feedback for their simplicity, ease of use, and budget-friendly pricing. They are recognized for their basic functionality and value for money.

Blenders

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. Vitamix: Vitamix is widely regarded as a leader in the blender market, known for its high-performance blenders that offer exceptional blending capabilities. Vitamix blenders often receive rave reviews for their powerful motors, durable construction, and ability to handle a wide range of ingredients. They are appreciated for their versatility in tasks such as blending, pureeing, and making smoothies, as well as their reputation for reliability and customer support.

2. Blendtec: Blendtec is recognized for producing high-quality blenders with powerful motors and innovative features. Blendtec blenders often receive positive feedback for their exceptional blending performance, sturdy construction, and advanced blending technology. They are known for their ability to handle tough ingredients, such as ice and frozen fruits, and their user-friendly interfaces.

3. Ninja: Ninja is a reputable brand that offers a range of blender models known for their affordability and versatility. Ninja blenders often receive positive reviews for their powerful motors, durable design, and ability to handle various blending tasks. They are appreciated for their range of features, such as multiple speed settings and convenient single-serve attachments.

4. KitchenAid: KitchenAid is known for producing high-quality kitchen appliances, including blenders. KitchenAid blenders often receive positive feedback for their stylish designs, solid construction, and reliable performance. They are appreciated for their versatility in blending tasks, such as making smoothies, soups, and sauces, as well as their compatibility with other KitchenAid attachments.

5. Oster: Oster offers a range of blenders known for their affordability and reliable performance. Oster blenders often receive positive reviews for their powerful motors, durability, and ability to handle various blending tasks. They are recognized for offering value for money and a range of models to suit different needs and budgets.

6. Hamilton Beach: Hamilton Beach is a well-known brand that produces a variety of kitchen appliances, including blenders. Hamilton Beach blenders often receive positive feedback for their affordability, ease of use, and reliable performance. They are appreciated for their basic functionality and value for money.

Coffee Makers

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. Breville: Breville is widely regarded as a reputable brand in the coffee machine market. They offer a range of coffee machines known for their performance, brewing precision, and user-friendly features. Breville coffee machines often receive positive reviews for their ability to produce excellent espresso and other specialty coffee drinks, advanced brewing technology, and durable construction.

2. Jura: Jura is recognized for producing high-quality coffee machines with a focus on automatic espresso machines. Jura coffee machines often receive positive feedback for their precise brewing process, ease of use, and elegant design. They are appreciated for their ability to deliver consistent coffee quality and their range of programmable features.

3. De'Longhi: De'Longhi is known for offering a variety of coffee machines that cater to different brewing preferences. De'Longhi coffee machines often receive positive reviews for their versatility, ease of use, and reliable performance. They are appreciated for their range of brewing options, including espresso, drip coffee, and specialty drinks.

4. Nespresso: Nespresso is renowned for its single-serve coffee machines that utilize coffee capsules for easy and convenient brewing. Nespresso coffee machines often receive positive feedback for their simplicity, quick brewing process, and consistent coffee quality. They are recognized for offering a wide range of coffee flavors and strengths.

5. Keurig: Keurig is a popular brand known for its single-serve coffee machines that use coffee pods for quick and easy brewing. Keurig coffee machines often receive positive reviews for their convenience, fast brewing time, and wide variety of coffee flavors. They are appreciated for their user-friendly interfaces and compatibility with various beverage options.

6. Moccamaster: Moccamaster is recognized for its high-quality drip coffee machines known for their precise brewing and durable build. Moccamaster coffee machines often receive positive feedback for their consistent and flavorful coffee extraction, attention to brewing temperature, and long-lasting performance.

 

Espresso Makers

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. La Marzocco: La Marzocco is widely regarded as a top-tier brand in the espresso machine market. They are known for their high-end espresso machines that are favored by professional baristas and specialty coffee shops. La Marzocco machines often receive praise for their exceptional build quality, precise temperature control, and ability to consistently produce excellent espresso shots.

2. La Pavoni: La Pavoni is recognized for its classic and elegant espresso machines. La Pavoni machines often receive positive feedback for their timeless design, durability, and ability to deliver authentic and rich espresso. They are appreciated for their manual lever operation, which allows users to have full control over the brewing process.

3. Rancilio: Rancilio is known for producing a range of espresso machines suitable for both home and commercial use. Rancilio machines often receive positive reviews for their solid build quality, reliability, and ability to deliver consistent espresso shots. They are appreciated for their user-friendly interfaces and professional-grade performance.

4. Rocket Espresso: Rocket Espresso is recognized for its stylish and high-performance espresso machines. Rocket Espresso machines often receive positive feedback for their craftsmanship, attention to detail, and ability to produce excellent espresso. They are known for their combination of traditional Italian design and modern technology.

5. Breville: Breville offers a range of espresso machines that cater to both beginner and experienced home baristas. Breville machines often receive positive reviews for their versatility, ease of use, and consistent brewing performance. They are appreciated for their user-friendly interfaces, customizable settings, and value for money.

6. De'Longhi: De'Longhi is known for its wide range of espresso machines, from entry-level to higher-end models. De'Longhi machines often receive positive feedback for their user-friendly interfaces, versatility, and reasonable pricing. They are recognized for offering a variety of brewing options and features, making them suitable for different preferences and budgets.

Environmentally Friendly Options for your Kitchen

Below is a list of kitchen products commonly used in households that have environmentally friendly options:

1. Reusable Food Storage Containers: Instead of single-use plastic containers, opt for reusable food storage containers made from glass, stainless steel, or eco-friendly materials like silicone or bamboo.

2. Beeswax Wraps: Replace plastic wrap with beeswax wraps, which are reusable, washable, and made from natural beeswax-coated fabric. They can be used to cover bowls, wrap sandwiches, or store fruits and vegetables.

3. Bamboo Utensils: Choose utensils made from sustainable bamboo instead of disposable plastic cutlery. Bamboo is a fast-growing, renewable resource that makes for durable and eco-friendly utensils.

4. Stainless Steel Straws: Ditch single-use plastic straws and opt for reusable stainless steel straws. They are durable, easy to clean, and can be used over and over again.

5. Compost Bin: Utilize a compost bin in your kitchen to dispose of food scraps and organic waste. Composting helps reduce waste sent to landfills and produces nutrient-rich compost for gardening.

6. Reusable Coffee Filters: Instead of using disposable paper filters for coffee machines, choose reusable coffee filters made from stainless steel or cloth. They are washable and reduce paper waste.

7. Biodegradable Dish Soap: Look for dish soaps that are biodegradable and free from harmful chemicals. Many eco-friendly options use plant-based ingredients and come in recyclable packaging.

8. Energy-Efficient Appliances: When purchasing kitchen appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, or ovens, opt for energy-efficient models with Energy Star certification. These appliances consume less energy and reduce your carbon footprint.

9. Glass or Stainless Steel Water Bottles: Switch to reusable water bottles made from glass or stainless steel instead of single-use plastic bottles. They are durable, easy to clean, and help reduce plastic waste.

10. Cloth Dish Towels: Replace paper towels with reusable cloth dish towels. They are more sustainable, can be washed and reused multiple times, and are great for cleaning spills and drying dishes.

Remember, making small changes in your kitchen can add up to a significant positive impact on the environment. By opting for eco-friendly alternatives, you can reduce waste, conserve resources, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Environmentally Friendly Toilet Paper

While we're all at home due to the pandemic (and people are finally done panic buying toilet paper) we thought we should talk about a matter that is very important... Environmentally Friendly Toilet Paper.

When it comes to environmentally friendly toilet paper brands, there are a few options to consider. These brands prioritize sustainability by using recycled materials, promoting responsible forestry practices, or employing other eco-friendly manufacturing processes. Here are some of the best toilet paper brands known for their environmental consciousness:

1. Seventh Generation: Seventh Generation offers toilet paper made from 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 50% post-consumer content. They use no chlorine bleach, fragrances, or dyes. The brand is also committed to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainability throughout its supply chain.

2. Who Gives A Crap: Who Gives A Crap produces toilet paper made from bamboo or recycled paper. They are focused on sustainability and donate 50% of their profits to help build toilets and improve sanitation in developing countries. Their packaging is also plastic-free and biodegradable.

3. Pure Planet Club: Pure Planet Club creates toilet paper made from bamboo, which is a highly renewable resource. They use no chlorine, inks, dyes, or fragrances in their products, making them safe for both the environment and sensitive skin.

4. Green Forest: Green Forest offers toilet paper made from 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 90% post-consumer content. The brand is committed to responsible forestry practices and does not use chlorine bleach or any harmful chemicals during production.

5. Silk'n Soft: Silk'n Soft produces toilet paper made from sustainable bamboo pulp. Their products are free from bleach, ink, and fragrance, making them gentle on the skin. The brand is also committed to reducing deforestation and promoting eco-friendly practices.

It's important to note that availability may vary depending on your location. Additionally, different brands may have specific certifications or claims related to their environmental impact, such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification or carbon-neutral manufacturing. Checking for these certifications can help ensure that the toilet paper brand you choose aligns with your environmental values.

Scrubbing Bubbles Vs Scrub Free

Today I decided to do a test of two different products sitting in the closet next to the bathroom.

#1. Scrubbing Bubbles

#2. Scrub Free

Both claim to be able to scrub your bathtub with very little work involved. So I decided to do a double test, side by side. I sprayed half the bathtub with Scrubbing Bubbles and other half with Scrub Free.

I then walked away to play with our cat - see Victoria has Claws - and then came back.

When I returned the Scrubbing Bubbles side of the bathtub was noticeably cleaner. The Scrub Free half looked like nothing had even happened.

To finish the job I sprayed the Scrub Free half of the bathtub with Scrubbing Bubbles. Because apparently Scrub Free isn't living up to its name.

Which is weird because I remember using Scrub Free a lot when I was younger and seemed to always do the job, but now it doesn't seem to work that well. Could it be that Scrub Free has changed their formula to cheaper chemicals and now it does a shoddy job compared to what it used to do?

Scrubbing Bubbles Bathroom Cleaner

Noticed the bathtub tiles were dirty so tried out Scrubbing Bubbles all purpose cleaner - which is really meant for bathrooms, but I guess you could use it for other things.

When it comes to bathroom cleaners I just want the chemicals to do 99% of the WORK and the user should have to put in very little effort. Basically it should be so easy a lazy 5 year old could do it. Spray it on, let it sit for a few moments,  give it a light scrub if necessary and it is done. Ideally actually "scrubbing" the surface should be optional.

And in this case it was. When I scrubbed it I could not tell if the "Scrubbing Bubbles" had already done its job and it felt like I was scrubbing for the sake of scrubbing. So huzah. A product that fulfills what I wanted it to do.

Update - See my new post on this topic at Scrubbing Bubbles Vs Scrub Free.

Renovating and Waterproofing Bathrooms

Is Your Floor Stable Enough for that Large Tub?

When renovating the bathroom, some people don't consider how much weight the floor needs to sustain in order to remain intact. This is especially true when considering large tubs or hot tubs. Gallons and gallons of water used to fill these comfortable additions can weigh quite a bit, and an older floor may be too degraded to sustain the weight.

Water Damage from the Past

Hiring a bathroom renovation specialist can help you determine if the support beams for the floor are sound enough to sustain additional weight from a tub upgrade. Over time, water damage can rot support beams reducing the capabilities of each one. This damage could have come from overflowing toilets, water from the shower, bad sink drains and much more. Until you tear into the floor itself, you may never know just how degraded these beams can be.

Water Sealants

When installing new fixtures, it is important that the edges be sealed with a waterproof substance. This is usually done with a sealing calk that prevents water seepage under the floor. Over time, this sealant can be compromised leading to the water damage of floor boards and support frames. Even a few droplets of water each day from each shower taken in the home can eventually lead to rotten wood or mold growth.

Before you put that larger tub in the bathroom, seek the advice of a professional. Without proper support, the extra weight from the additional water could cause your bathroom to cave into the space below. While this might not be a overly damaging prospect in a single level home, multiple levels houses could have a great deal of damage done from an upstairs tub sinking into the floor.

Moustache Wax - Two Reviews

Review by Charles Moffat - December 2014.

On the left is Firehouse Moustache Wax (dark), which you can find online at firehousemoustachewax.com.

On the right is Urban Beard Moustache Wax (blonde), which you can find at urbanbeard.ca.

I enjoyed reviewing both of these products, but ultimately ended up preferring the Urban Beard Moustache Wax because it was available in blonde. The dark Firehouse wax was equally good in my opinion, but the colour was slightly off for my dark blonde beard. It was fairly close.

The Urban Beard Moustache Wax is made using organic oils, and while the Firehouse moustache wax doesn't say anything about whether it is organic, I think it probably is organic judging by the similar smell. Both of these waxes smelled nearly identical so I have a sneaky suspicion that due to their very similar performances on my moustache that their recipes are practically identical. They are basically the same product, but different colours and different brand names.

Since these two products ended up being so good at their job and nearly identical except for their colours I ended up making homemade moustache wax using bees wax and coconut oil - and determined that I am not very good at making homemade moustache wax, so maybe I should stick to the store bought stuff. I made the homemade wax in an effort to find a 3rd comparison, but also to see just how easy it is to do. The instructions (below) seemed easy enough, but having instructions and following them are two different things.

Homemade moustache wax still works, but the process of making it made me realize I would rather just buy stuff that someone else made so I don't have to do the work myself.

There are many other companies out there who make moustache wax, these are just the two companies I have reviewed so far. If additional companies want to be reviewed they can contact me via email: charlesmoffat at charlesmoffat dot com.

HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE MOUSTACHE WAX

Get 1 ounce of bees wax and 1 ounce of coconut oil.

Step 1. Melt the bees wax in a container inside boiling water. Go easy on the heat, wax can explode under heat and pressure.

Step 2. Remove the container from the boiling water and add the coconut oil. Stir until everything is melted and completely mixed.

Step 3. Pour the mixture into a glass heat-resistant container or into leftover moustache wax tins.

Step 4. Let cool for 45 minutes or more.

HOW TO APPLY MOUSTACHE WAX

To apply wax keep the wax warm (room temperature or slightly better). Use small portions at a time by scraping it with your thumbnail like a bulldozer, roll the scraping into a ball, and then work it into the moustache.  Comb your moustache to style it.

Grilling Bacon

I saw this in a store and snapped a photo. $9.99 at Canadian Tire.

Mmm... microwaved bacon.

If you have this item at home and it works well/poorly, please post your review in the comments. I am curious to know whether it works well or whether it is a piece of junk. (But not curious enough to spend $$ on it when I can just make the bacon on the stove instead.)

Gillette Fusion ProGlide Power Razor

I recently purchased the Gillette Fusion ProGlide Power Razor at CostCo (it was on sale and I was looking for a new razor anyway).

I tried the razor for the first time this morning.

Wow. Very happy with the results.

I was skeptical of the whole flexing ball thing, and doubly skeptical of the idea of a vibrating razor while I am shaving. I thought for sure I was going to end up cutting my face.

Instead what happened was one of the quickest, smoothest, most comfortable shaves I have experienced in years. (Comparable to several 3 and 4 blade razors I reviewed several years ago, only better.)

So yes. Shock and surprise at how good the razors are. And very, VERY happy with the results.

Thermos Cafe Bottle

By Tamyka

This year, we have a heavy winter season. Beautiful snow covers everywhere. Perfect to slip into my favourite Nike boots and wear my thick black coat in the frigid climate. I walk to catch the TTC bus from my home with my large boring GUESS purse that my older sister had given to me two years ago. Inside I have my dear Thermos cafe bottle to drink my tea on the bus.

With money consumption to buy a warm drink from Tim Horton or Second Cup after I felt BRRR...so one day, I went to Wal-Mart store to buy a beautiful shiny blue thermos cafe bottle at Wal-Mart store. I made a test to see if the thermos cafe bottle is a true miracle. On yes! I poured very hot tea into it and capped it tightly. I sipped it on the bus or on the train, amazingly, the hot tea was still hot for up to about 5 or 6 hours! After that, it became warm.

Thermos cafe bottle is a true miracle and money-saving!

Battling Mold on your Window Sills

Canadians might be seeing a lot more mold growing on their window sills and walls near their windows this winter due to excessive cold we have experienced this winter. The reason is because the colder temperatures on the glass windows causes condensation on windows, the water collects on surfaces near the window and then the mold grows wherever there is moisture.

The good news is that is just superficial and looks disgusting. Black mold, the kind that can damage your lungs, won't grow on such surfaces because there isn't enough food supply for it to eat. Common green mold just needs moisture and a little bit of dirt to grow - but isn't dangerous to be breathing in.

Mold commonly grows more often in bathrooms and kitchens more often because of the extra heat and moisture in these rooms. Some people who have very warm bedrooms will also experience more mold around their windows and on window sills.

So how do you Clean Mold on Window Sills and Walls?

Honestly, good old fashioned soapy water is good for cleaning off the mold, but the stuff I recommend is Pledge and / or Pine-Sol. That way it isn't just clean, but smells nice too.

Afterwards dry all the surfaces with a towel - and I recommend following up with a paper towel to be doubly sure it is dry.

In the future make an effort of cleaning the area of any condensation if you notice condensation building up, that way the mold won't have a chance to grow in the first place.

Mouthwashes - Alcohol Vs Alcohol Free

I have posted on mouthwashes before, but this time I was trying out the alcohol free version of Crest mouthwash.

I even compared it with Scopes' cool peppermint, and I must say I prefer the alcohol free mouthwash from Crest. It was waaaaay better tasting and I could feel a definite difference in terms of how clean my mouth was afterwards. Longer laster flavour too.

Tried both of them for over a month, got way better satisfaction from Crest.

Mugwarmer

By Tamyka Bullen

* Illuminated on/off switch

* No-mar, no-slip feet

Recently, I bought the mug warmer from the Canadian Tire store. It costed me $12.99 but with taxes it was $14.68. I did the little experiment with it. I decided to turn the warm drink cold, then placed it on the mug warmer to see if it could heat the drink. I left it for a short time, it didn't heat the cold drink, but it didn't prove that it didn't heat it enough because I turned off the mug warmer less than 30 minutes. The instruction said that it was NOT designed to heat drinks anyways. I placed the warm drink on it and left it for more than 30 minutes, behold and lo it was still warm. Other time, I left the warm drink on it again, still it was warm. It seems that it is designed to keep warm drinks warm. 

I read the information about the mug warmer. It said that the mug warmer will keep warm drinks at the ideal temperature. If you have the 110/120 volt electric outlet, it will work. 

Personally, I really like it a lot because first of all, it keeps my drink warm and it is perfect for any places that I can use as long as there are plug outlets. BUT it will torch plastic or styrofoam cups! It also can keep soups warm!!! Yummy!

 

(Note, we admit it does look a bit like a toilet seat.)