Adulting Guide: Practical tips and strategies for independent living and adulthood
-
Dishwasher Usage
Dishwashers are a fantastic way to save time, water, and energy. Basically an almost-perfect appliance, these wonder machines wash and dry your dishes efficiently, all while freeing you up to do anything else. Even countertop and rolling floor models for space-constrained users are available. There are a few catches and ways to optimize performance, both…
-
Pasta Hacks
One way to save water, energy, and time is with a couple of shortcuts when cooking pasta. With the majority of dry pasta such as macaroni, you can put your pasta into a dry pan, then add water until the pasta is just submerged. Then, bring the pot up to a boil. Be sure to…
-
Carbon Monoxide
The silent killer, carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that typically originates from incomplete combustion. The symptoms are typically flu-like, with nausea, weakness, headache, and vomiting among them, but with no obvious sensory warning, these can be easily overlooked with deadly consequences. Over 400 people in the US lose their life every year to…
-
Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans provide an inexpensive way to adjust the comfort of your home without having to adjust the thermostat. During the hot summer months, a ceiling fan is a great way to beat the heat by blowing down and cooling you directly. In winter, it may not seem to make much sense to use a…
-
Neighbors
Your (literal) closest friends or enemies, neighbors are an inevitable aspect of moving out in the world. Being on good standing with your neighbors builds stronger communities, and can give you a network to lean on if needed. Just remember to return the favor! Benjamin Franklin is quoted as saying, “He that has once done…
-
Skip the Search: ‘Grab-n-Go’ Spots
Save yourself the hassle of trying to remember where you left your keys: designate spots for your everyday needs, such as your keys, wallet or purse, and your phone. Leaving your keys near your door in a tray or on a key rack whenever you return ensures you always know where your keys are, and…