Dishwasher, Perennials & Bug Spray
Joan Clark
October 19, 2026
In partnership with
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Hi there,
Sometimes we have to tackle unwelcome chores, from stubborn mold to unwanted pests. Today's issue offers practical solutions to deal with common household problems while keeping your garden thriving.
In today's issue:
How to Banish Mold From Your Dishwasher
Perennials That Bloom Year After Year
DIY Bug Spray You Can Make at Home
And more…
CLEANING
We discovered mold hiding in our dishwasher's rubber seal after noticing a musty smell on supposedly clean dishes—turns out, warm, damp appliances are mold's favorite vacation spot. These six simple tricks take less than 30 minutes and use supplies already sitting under the kitchen sink.
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PLANTS & GARDEN
A garden that delivers color from the first thaw through the final frost sounds too good to be true , but the right perennials make it possible without replanting every season. This collection of 21 reliable bloomers proves that continuous color isn't about constant work—it's about choosing plants that naturally stagger their show across three seasons.
TIP OF THE DAY
Ironing Board Rescue
Remove the ironing board cover and toss it in the washing machine with warm water and a scoop of oxygen bleach. Run a full cycle, then air-dry it completely before putting it back on the board.
Skip the dryer heat because it can shrink the elastic or warp the foam padding underneath. Oxygen bleach lifts scorch marks and fabric-softener buildup without the harsh fumes of chlorine.
BUG CONTROL
Store-bought bug sprays often contain chemicals that can irritate skin and leave clothes stained—plus, they're expensive to replace. We found 11 simple recipes using ingredients like lemon eucalyptus oil and witch hazel that cost pennies per batch and actually work.
FUN FACT
Exploding Teeth
The first porcelain dentures, created by Alexis Duchâteau in 1774, were so brittle they could shatter while chewing. Duchâteau, a Parisian apothecary, partnered with dentist Nicolas Dubois de Chémant to improve the formula. The porcelain was fired at temperatures exceeding 2,000°F, the same heat used for fine china, which made the teeth beautiful but fragile enough to crack under normal bite pressure. |  |
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THANK YOU!
Your home deserves to feel fresh, from a sparkling dishwasher to a garden bursting with color all season . Whether you're tackling mold or keeping pests at bay with homemade sprays, these tips put you back in control without harsh chemicals or guesswork.
May your dishwasher shine,
Tipsbulletin Newsletter Team
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