Art | Resources
Natural moisturizing bar soap
Question from vlavianos
I am looking for a natural or organic bar soap that is super moisturizing. I have tried Dr. Bronners, Kiss My Face olive oil soap, shea butter soap, “unscented” Dove, all without success. They seem fine in the shower, but when I dry off I can see the crocodile skin on my legs, and my arms and torso get itchy. Thanks.
Debra’s Answer
Readers, any suggestions?
Flat roof suggestions
Question from Anlina
I need to replace my flat roof. Does anyone know what type will outgas the least?
My options include spray-foam polyurea, torch-down modified bitumen, peel-and-stick modified bitumen, rolled asphalt, EPDM rubber, (ethylene propylene diene monomer), PVC, built-up roof, or two layer peel & stick system where the top sheet is granule surfaced.
Then there are the underlayments, adhesives, etc. which I’d appreciate suggestions on as well.
I’m in southern California.
Thanks so much!
Debra’s Answer
I could analyze each of these, but I’d rather hear about first-hand experiences. Readers, have you installed any of these on your flat roofs?
Aubrey Organics
A leader in natural and organic bodycare products since 1967, they make a full line of natural and organic skin care and hair care products. Their factory has been certified organic and now they are having each of their ingredients certified one by one by Quality Assurance International. Even with international distribution, products are hand-crafted in small batches and mixed every day for freshness. Bottles are made of recyclable plastic and boxes made from recyclable cardboard.
Smelly Sneakers
Question from audrey
I have mcs and always have had to air out sneakers/running shoes on my balcony for a year before I can wear them. I recently bought a pair of lovely sneakers from HSN and they smell worse than anything I have ever smelled before. I would like to keep them if possible. Does anyone have any suggestions besides airing them out as to how to help get the odor out quicker? Thank you.
Debra’s Answer
I’ve never had success making sneakers smell less. Readers?
Nontoxic Wooden Venetian Blinds?
Question from ellenelle
Does anyone know of a source for wooden Venetian blinds with a non-toxic finish?
Thanks,
Ellen
Debra’s Answer
Nature’s Hair Conditioner
Question from JAD
I am a big fan of Dr. Oz and watch his show when I can. He recommended banana for a hair conditioner. Take a half of banana and whip it up with a hand blender, apply to hair and let set for 15 minutes. Rinse out, comb out any pieces and wash. My hair has never felt better or had more body. I am doing this once a week. He says it repairs the hair.
Debra’s Answer
Thanks! I welcome more tips like this on this blog.
Rid of lawn pesticides and herbicides???
Question from tuscangal13
Sprays from neighbors or city are outside my home. I have pesticide poisoning. It has been six months and still have to wear a mask to get in house.
Can any one recommend what to put on my lawn or wash my house with to get rid of what ever this is.
They sprayed termador and cykick on there lawn and round up in the alley. Also across the street the have once a month orkin sprays. PLEASE HELP.
Neighbors don’t listen and I am not well to take to court.
I can’t move.
Debra’s Answer
In the past I have contacted pesticide manufacturers to find out what the “clean up” chemical is for their pesticides. However, in your case, I’m not sure this would help if they are spraying on a continuous basis.
I know you said you can’t move, but that would be the best way to handle this.
Readers, any suggestions?
Teeth Whitening Strips
Question from Violet56
I would appreciate any opinions on which teeth whitening strips are the safest to use? Thanks
Debra’s Answer
I haven’t researched these at all. Anyone have any experience to share?
Armstrong Vinyl Composition Tile
Made from 85% limestone (an abundant natural resource), recycled content and vinyl. It qualifies for LEED green building credits in several categories, including recycled content and low-emitting resilient flooring. These are the least expensive, most readily available nontoxic flooring option, available at mass retailers such as Home Depot and Lowe's. Ask at local stores for styles and colors they can order.
Arm & Hammer Baking Soda
Instructions for using baking soda to clean all around the house.