Wash Pillows, Freeze Dry Fruit & Keep Ants Out
Joan Clark
August 07, 2026
Sponsored by
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Hello ,
Summer brings fresh opportunities to tackle those household tasks that have been waiting for attention. We have ideas to help you care for your home, grow your own food, and solve everyday challenges.
In today's issue:
The Right Way to Clean Your Pillows
Keeping Ants Away From Your Cat's Food Bowl
What You Need to Know About Freeze-Dried Fruit
And more…
CLEANING
We used to toss our pillows in the wash without a second thought until one came out lumpy and misshapen, which taught us that different fill types require different care. This guide walks through the right method for every pillow in your home, from down to memory foam, so they come out fresh and fully intact.
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Your K-Cup Has Been Sitting in a Warehouse for Months
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FOOD STORAGE
Freeze-dried strawberries can retain up to 97% of their original nutrients and stay shelf-stable for up to 25 years when stored properly. We break down five simple tips that transform fresh fruit into crispy, intensely flavored snacks without special equipment.
TIP OF THE DAY
A Pumice Stone Can Save the Day
A wet pumice stone removes hard water rings in the toilet that chemicals can't touch. Soak the stone in water for five minutes, then gently rub it across stained areas using light pressure and short strokes. Keep both the stone and the porcelain wet while you work to prevent scratches.
Rinse the bowl and check your progress every minute or two. Pumice is softer than porcelain but harder than mineral deposits, so it scrapes away buildup without damaging the surface.
BUG CONTROL
We once watched a single scout ant summon an entire colony to a cat's bowl in under 20 minutes —proof that these tiny invaders work faster than most people realize. Discover 7+ simple tricks to protect your pet's food without harsh chemicals or complicated routines.
FUN FACT
Can a Kettle Really Save You $100 a Year?
Boiling water in an electric kettle uses about half as much energy as heating the same amount on a stovetop, which can trim roughly $100 off a household's annual utility bills if it boils water daily. Kettles convert 80% of their electricity into heat, while stovetops lose energy warming the air and the pot itself. That efficiency gap is why electric kettles dominate in Europe and Asia, but are less common in North America. |  |
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THANK YOU!
Fresh pillows, ant-free cat bowls, and perfectly preserved fruit—your home runs smoother when the small stuff works . These tricks save time, money, and sanity. Who knew laundry day and garden prep could feel this satisfying?
May your pillows stay fluffy,
Tipsbulletin Newsletter Team
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