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Tip Store: Household: Appliances, Crockery, Tupperware
Getting Everything from Your Old Fridge
Don't dispose of your old frig when it's no longer working. Here is a list of parts of it which can be reused:
1. The body of the fridge turned on its side, makes a great self-watering wicking container for growing veggies.
2. The flat outside of the door can be covered with mosaic tiles for a lovely garden feature.
3. The wire shelves can be used to protect young seedlings from birds.
4. The glass shelves can be used to cover tender seedlings when a frost is predicted.
5. The nuts, bolts and hinges can be reused for other projects.
6. Even the plastic lining of the door can be reused, just cut it into pieces for durable plant labels.
7. The small light globe (if it's still working) could be reused in a lamp in your house.
8. Any copper wire can be wound around plant pots to deter snails and slugs (it gives them a small electric shock when their mucus contacts it).
9.The electric motor should be taken to a metal recycling yard.
Contributed by Pam Strange
1. The body of the fridge turned on its side, makes a great self-watering wicking container for growing veggies.
2. The flat outside of the door can be covered with mosaic tiles for a lovely garden feature.
3. The wire shelves can be used to protect young seedlings from birds.
4. The glass shelves can be used to cover tender seedlings when a frost is predicted.
5. The nuts, bolts and hinges can be reused for other projects.
6. Even the plastic lining of the door can be reused, just cut it into pieces for durable plant labels.
7. The small light globe (if it's still working) could be reused in a lamp in your house.
8. Any copper wire can be wound around plant pots to deter snails and slugs (it gives them a small electric shock when their mucus contacts it).
9.The electric motor should be taken to a metal recycling yard.
Contributed by Pam Strange
Lemon Fresh Kettle Cleaning
This might be a really common tip, but I’d never heard it before. Cut up a lemon and boil it in your kettle to clean it. Apparently just lemon juice works too. I tried it this morning, as we’d been given a bag of lemons, and it got rid of all the discolouration inside after just boiling the water once, it doesn’t need to be scrubbed or even wiped. I was even inspired to give the outside a wipe over with vinegar, and it looks like a new kettle!
Contributed by Kate Sharp, 2nd August 2018
Contributed by Kate Sharp, 2nd August 2018
Why You Should Always Keep a Coin in the Freezer
Why you should always put a coin in the freezer. Have you ever come home from vacation, business trip or maybe a weekend away with the family - and noticed your digital clocks flashing the wrong time? You quickly realise that you had a power outage while you were away, but it's basically impossible to tell when it occurred or how long it lasted. It's therefore also impossible to tell just how long the food in your freezer may have thawed, been destroyed, and then frozen again.
Or is it?
The trick lies in the magical combination of three simple but effective tools everyone already has at home: a mug, a coin and some tap water.
When you are going on holidays, try this one-cup tip. You put a cup of water in your freezer. Freeze it solid and then put a 20cent piece on top of it and leave it in your freezer. That way when you come back after your holiday, you can tell if your food went completely bad and just refroze, or if it stayed frozen while you were gone.
If the coin has fallen to the bottom of the cup that means all the food defrosted and you should throw it out. But if the coin is either on the top or in the middle of the cup then your food may still be ok. It would also be a great idea to leave this in your freezer all the time and if you lose power for any reason you will have this tip to fall back on. If you don't feel good about your food, just throw it out.
Simple, effective - and definitely a money saver, because you don't have to toss loads of food unnecessarily. Please share this nifty trick with all your friends!
Contributed by Jill Madden
Or is it?
The trick lies in the magical combination of three simple but effective tools everyone already has at home: a mug, a coin and some tap water.
When you are going on holidays, try this one-cup tip. You put a cup of water in your freezer. Freeze it solid and then put a 20cent piece on top of it and leave it in your freezer. That way when you come back after your holiday, you can tell if your food went completely bad and just refroze, or if it stayed frozen while you were gone.
If the coin has fallen to the bottom of the cup that means all the food defrosted and you should throw it out. But if the coin is either on the top or in the middle of the cup then your food may still be ok. It would also be a great idea to leave this in your freezer all the time and if you lose power for any reason you will have this tip to fall back on. If you don't feel good about your food, just throw it out.
Simple, effective - and definitely a money saver, because you don't have to toss loads of food unnecessarily. Please share this nifty trick with all your friends!
Contributed by Jill Madden
Recovering Stained Plastic Containers
I love free things...so here goes. Sometimes plastic containers get stained with tomato based sauces. All you have to do is put the item out for a day in strong sunlight. Just rinse first and wash as usual, after the stain has disappeared like magic!
Contributed by Heather Schlusemeyer
I love free things...so here goes. Sometimes plastic containers get stained with tomato based sauces. All you have to do is put the item out for a day in strong sunlight. Just rinse first and wash as usual, after the stain has disappeared like magic!
Contributed by Heather Schlusemeyer
Secondhand Appliances, Complete with Manuals
If you want to buy secondhand appliances but they don't have the instruction book needed to use it, just Google the brand name and model number and print it out. I did this when I bought my second hand bread maker. It only cost me $10 instead of $90 or more for a new one and we have tasty homemade bread.
Contributed by Amanda Pollock
Contributed by Amanda Pollock
Appliance Repairs Don't Have to be Costly
Approximate $ Saving: $100
When my Kenwood mixers brushes burnt out I was told by Kenwood they were over $100 to replace. I know the machines are over $500 to buy brand new and this was a wedding present in 1973, so the machine meant something to me. I use it all the time as I have all the attachments for it. Hubby pulled the machine apart and took the brushes to a tool place and between the guy behind the desk and him found that Black and Decker drill brushes are the same size and fitted perfectly. Its been going a real treat. Best of all the price was under $7. So if you have any kitchen gadgets wear out check out your local tool shop first before buying the brand name.
Contributed by Robyne Neal, 21st February 2013
When my Kenwood mixers brushes burnt out I was told by Kenwood they were over $100 to replace. I know the machines are over $500 to buy brand new and this was a wedding present in 1973, so the machine meant something to me. I use it all the time as I have all the attachments for it. Hubby pulled the machine apart and took the brushes to a tool place and between the guy behind the desk and him found that Black and Decker drill brushes are the same size and fitted perfectly. Its been going a real treat. Best of all the price was under $7. So if you have any kitchen gadgets wear out check out your local tool shop first before buying the brand name.
Contributed by Robyne Neal, 21st February 2013
Warranty Folder
I have created a folder for all my warranties and keep a look out for the ones that have services attached to them. I write the dates and product names on the front of this folder and keep an eye on it for due or expiry dates. I purchased a vacuum cleaner n special and they gave me a two year warranty for having this machine serviced for free. I have since that date serviced this vacuum cleaner three times and have just taken the machine in again because the warranty will expire next month. I am assured my machine will last me at least another few years because I have had this machine cared for and all for free. I am laughing all the way to the bank with this.
Contributed by Veronkia Dawes, 17th May 2012
Contributed by Veronkia Dawes, 17th May 2012
Fix Your Fridge Seals
Approximate $ Savings: $100 plus
After having separated from my partner and moving into a place of my own, money was tight. A friend offered me an old fridge and freezer until I could afford new ones. The seals were mouldy, hard and beginning to perish, so I called a repair man to fit new seals, thinking this was a cheap way of getting extra life from the old things. He so kindly told me I could get at least another 12 months from them if I took the time to massage good old 'Vaseline' or petroleum jelly into them. He charged me only $20 for the call out. So, cleaning them up with a tooth brush and bleach and a bit of thumb work, I got another two years before they were on their last legs, but by this time I had saved enough to buy myself a new star rated fridge/freezer.
Contributed by Geri Pye, 29th August 2010
After having separated from my partner and moving into a place of my own, money was tight. A friend offered me an old fridge and freezer until I could afford new ones. The seals were mouldy, hard and beginning to perish, so I called a repair man to fit new seals, thinking this was a cheap way of getting extra life from the old things. He so kindly told me I could get at least another 12 months from them if I took the time to massage good old 'Vaseline' or petroleum jelly into them. He charged me only $20 for the call out. So, cleaning them up with a tooth brush and bleach and a bit of thumb work, I got another two years before they were on their last legs, but by this time I had saved enough to buy myself a new star rated fridge/freezer.
Contributed by Geri Pye, 29th August 2010
Try Before You Buy Appliance Plan
If you are thinking of purchasing a kitchen appliance ask if any family members or friend have one they will let you 'try before you buy' If you like it you can then purchase and have not wasted money. Also ask them how often they do use it and you can then determine if it is a worthwhile purchase. Alternately you can ask them if you can occasionally borrow the machine in return for something e.g. I borrow my aunts bread machine and make what I need to freeze and in return give her a dozen eggs from my chickens.
Contributed by Linda, Leumeah, 14th May 2009
Contributed by Linda, Leumeah, 14th May 2009
Repair Remote Control Buttons
Approximate $ Savings: $40
Do you have a remote control on which some of the buttons don't work, or you have to press them very hard to work? This commonly happens to the most frequently used buttons. The reason is that the conductive material on the pads that contacts the circuit board wears out with use. A replacement remote control for my DVD would have cost $78.40, but a better solution is to repair it yourself for a few cents in less than 20 minutes. Do an Internet search for "repair remote control buttons" and you will find a myriad of instructions, photos and videos to help you. All are pretty much the same and briefly go something like this: d 1. Note which buttons don't work correctly. 2. Remove screw(s), usually found in the battery compartment. 3. Disassemble the remote. This is the hardest part - use a flat blade or screwdriver to pry the top section from the bottom of the remote, but take your time and don't used excessive force on the plastic. When it finally comes apart watch for loose parts falling out. You will see small pads (usually black) on the ends of the buttons that you press. These are the culprits. 4. Stick some kitchen aluminium foil to a piece of double sided tape. A 12cm strip will fix about 10 buttons. Using a paper hole punch (scissors if you don't have one) cut out as many pieces of self adhesive foil as you need. The replacement foil pads need to be about 5mm round. 5. Stick the foil to the faulty pads. 6. Reassemble the remote and hey presto it now works as good as new and you did it yourself!
Contributed by Peter Cartwright, 17th June 2010
Do you have a remote control on which some of the buttons don't work, or you have to press them very hard to work? This commonly happens to the most frequently used buttons. The reason is that the conductive material on the pads that contacts the circuit board wears out with use. A replacement remote control for my DVD would have cost $78.40, but a better solution is to repair it yourself for a few cents in less than 20 minutes. Do an Internet search for "repair remote control buttons" and you will find a myriad of instructions, photos and videos to help you. All are pretty much the same and briefly go something like this: d 1. Note which buttons don't work correctly. 2. Remove screw(s), usually found in the battery compartment. 3. Disassemble the remote. This is the hardest part - use a flat blade or screwdriver to pry the top section from the bottom of the remote, but take your time and don't used excessive force on the plastic. When it finally comes apart watch for loose parts falling out. You will see small pads (usually black) on the ends of the buttons that you press. These are the culprits. 4. Stick some kitchen aluminium foil to a piece of double sided tape. A 12cm strip will fix about 10 buttons. Using a paper hole punch (scissors if you don't have one) cut out as many pieces of self adhesive foil as you need. The replacement foil pads need to be about 5mm round. 5. Stick the foil to the faulty pads. 6. Reassemble the remote and hey presto it now works as good as new and you did it yourself!
Contributed by Peter Cartwright, 17th June 2010
Clean the TV Screen
The correct cleaner for a LCD screen, TV or computer etc. Is an Enjo cloth damp with just cold water wipe gently then dry with Enjo dry cloth, or the same method with any micro fibre cloth. Tried and tested many times.
Contributed by Rosie, Safety Bay, 6th February 2009
Contributed by Rosie, Safety Bay, 6th February 2009
Don't Throw Out Appliances with Dirty Battery Terminals
When my scales went flat on the weekend I had to replace the batteries. When I opened up the battery cover the battery had leaked and I thought "oh no, about sixty dollars for a new set of digital scales". But then I thought what could I try to clean it with which would have been some sort of chemical cleaner. But I took out the trusty vinegar being an acid and the battery being alkaline and a base and after the fizz about 2 seconds and voila - clean terminals and no need to buy new scales. I thought I should pass the information on so others with the same problem won't just throw out items because the batteries have leaked.
Contributed by Emma, Kelso, 27th October 2009
Contributed by Emma, Kelso, 27th October 2009
Asking for Tips on Vacuum Maintenance Fixes the Problem and Saves $120
Approximate $ Savings: $120
My ducted vacuum was making a lot of noise and not sucking up a lot. I knew a callout would be needed. When I rang about the callout fee, I was quoted $120 plus parts. After hearing that, I told him I was a pensioner and could I do anything to save money and if that didn't work I would begrudgingly book a service. He told me to lift off a plate at the bottom of the unit as there is a hole there that can collect fluff and block it up. Use another vacuum cleaner to suck out the fluff, put the plate back on and see what happens. Well, I did that and it worked so well, it felt like it was going to pull up the carpet. Just by asking for help I saved $120.
Contributed by Anja, Oakleigh East, 26th October 2009
My ducted vacuum was making a lot of noise and not sucking up a lot. I knew a callout would be needed. When I rang about the callout fee, I was quoted $120 plus parts. After hearing that, I told him I was a pensioner and could I do anything to save money and if that didn't work I would begrudgingly book a service. He told me to lift off a plate at the bottom of the unit as there is a hole there that can collect fluff and block it up. Use another vacuum cleaner to suck out the fluff, put the plate back on and see what happens. Well, I did that and it worked so well, it felt like it was going to pull up the carpet. Just by asking for help I saved $120.
Contributed by Anja, Oakleigh East, 26th October 2009
Help Seals Stick
To maintain the seals of my fridge I washed the seals down with warm soapy water, dried with a tea towel and then applied petroleum jelly (generic brand)to the seal and the door this makes the seal and door stick together thus keeping the door closed. Petroleum jelly is also good on window and sliding doors when they become squeaky.
Contributed by Jean, Burpengary, 14th January 2010
Contributed by Jean, Burpengary, 14th January 2010
Fridge Seals Available Online
Search eBay AU for 'fridge seals', there are a couple of sellers from Australia. I just ordered some for my fridge, with postage it cost me $80 for both the fridge and freezer seals, or $55 for just the fridge seal. They are really easy to fit yourself.
Contributed by Seryn, Hervey Bay, 14th January 2010
Contributed by Seryn, Hervey Bay, 14th January 2010
Keeping the Fridge Shut with a Hinge
Our bar fridge was not shutting and we were having trouble with the seals so my husband screwed a small hinge on the fridge. This ensures the fridge door is always shut, keeps the small kids from opening it and best of all we have noticed our power bills have dropped by around $25 per quarter! Contributed by Kate, Warrnambool, 15th January 2010
Restore Old Fridge Seals
A fridge man showed me how to improve old seals. Smother them in Vaseline and use a low heat on your hair dryer and keep trying them as you go after a few minutes. Usually they soften and come back to life. Saves a replacement.
Contributed by Rita, Bentleigh East, 15th January 2010
Contributed by Rita, Bentleigh East, 15th January 2010
Keep the Front Taller than the Back
Make sure the fridge and seals are cleaned properly with a soft cloth and mild detergent, and adjust the feet at the front of the fridge so it is taller than the back. Having the fridge tilted back slightly helps the door close.
Contributed by Di, North Nowra, 14th January 2010
Contributed by Di, North Nowra, 14th January 2010
Replace Fridge Seals Yourself, It Is An Easy Job
If you go to www.fridge-seal.com.au you will be able to buy a seal which will be posted to use and it is easy to install yourself would probably cost approx $60-$90 depending on your fridge brand. Hope this is helpful .
Contributed by Gail, Lake Cathie, 14th January 2010
Website: www.fridge-seal.com.au
Contributed by Gail, Lake Cathie, 14th January 2010
Website: www.fridge-seal.com.au
This Cheapskate Started a "Borrow an Appliance" Scheme at Work
Approximate $ Savings: $50 upwards
Mentioned to a girlfriend at work the other day that I was thinking about buying a slow cooker but really wanted to take on for a test drive first. She immediately offered to loan me hers for a week and in the conversation that followed we discovered that we both had a number of appliances cluttering our cupboards that we rarely used. So we made a decision to clear out a shelf in a cupboard at work and keep them there. They can then be 'borrowed' by whoever needs that particular gadget for the night. The only condition is that the appliance must be cleaned and returned a.s.a.p. Another workmate overheard us and we now have an appliance library of 8 kitchen gizmos ranging in value from $50-$200 and HEAPS more space in our kitchen cupboards. Reckon you'll have a better chance of getting this off the ground if your boss is a working Mum too!!
Contributed by Karen, Red Hill, 7th August 2009
Mentioned to a girlfriend at work the other day that I was thinking about buying a slow cooker but really wanted to take on for a test drive first. She immediately offered to loan me hers for a week and in the conversation that followed we discovered that we both had a number of appliances cluttering our cupboards that we rarely used. So we made a decision to clear out a shelf in a cupboard at work and keep them there. They can then be 'borrowed' by whoever needs that particular gadget for the night. The only condition is that the appliance must be cleaned and returned a.s.a.p. Another workmate overheard us and we now have an appliance library of 8 kitchen gizmos ranging in value from $50-$200 and HEAPS more space in our kitchen cupboards. Reckon you'll have a better chance of getting this off the ground if your boss is a working Mum too!!
Contributed by Karen, Red Hill, 7th August 2009
A New Vacuum Cleaner Hose for Less
Approximate $ Savings: 18.00 +
My old vacuum cleaner hose was beyond repair with it's latest split/break near the middle of the hose. The local vacuum cleaner shop wanted to charge $30 for a 'vacuum size length' that wasn't even exactly the size of mine. From processing invoices for my husband's business, I knew of a place called 'flexible hose supplies' (I would guess every major city and large town would have an equivalent) so I asked my husband to see if they have vacuum hose. They sure did and it was only $6/metre or for a 10 metre roll $40 ($4/metre!). The salesman said people often bought long lengths as it was easier to pull around the house than the machine and power cord. The other bonus for me was it was black which will look cleaner for longer. All up a saving of $18 for the two metres we bought.
Contributed by Tanya, Oxenford, 12th March 2009
My old vacuum cleaner hose was beyond repair with it's latest split/break near the middle of the hose. The local vacuum cleaner shop wanted to charge $30 for a 'vacuum size length' that wasn't even exactly the size of mine. From processing invoices for my husband's business, I knew of a place called 'flexible hose supplies' (I would guess every major city and large town would have an equivalent) so I asked my husband to see if they have vacuum hose. They sure did and it was only $6/metre or for a 10 metre roll $40 ($4/metre!). The salesman said people often bought long lengths as it was easier to pull around the house than the machine and power cord. The other bonus for me was it was black which will look cleaner for longer. All up a saving of $18 for the two metres we bought.
Contributed by Tanya, Oxenford, 12th March 2009
Dissolve Sticky Stuff
You can try kerosene as it will dissolve and remove most sticky substances, the problem will be that the plastic is covering the sticky surface so you will need to rub the kero in well with a rough cotton rag. To clean up use methylated spirits to remove the residue kero and it should shine up well.
Contributed by Matt, Earlwood, 6th April 2009
Contributed by Matt, Earlwood, 6th April 2009
Lube the Seals
Just having read your tip with Vaseline against snail attack reminded me to pass on a tip a refrigeration mechanic gave to me. Right from the start when you get a fridge or freezer, apply a thin smear of petroleum jelly where the rubber seals meet the metal. It will keep them supple and a strong seal for years longer and replacement seals are dear. If your fridge is not so new but the seals are still good, start doing this and you will be pleased with the effects too.
Contributed by Lisa W., 10th March 2009
Contributed by Lisa W., 10th March 2009
Keeping Non-stick Cookware Looking Good Longer
Never use aerosol-based sprays with this coookware, as the propellant is damaging to the non-stick surface. You can, however, use the pump-up yourself oil sprayers. A GOOD retailer will warn you of this-not one who only wants the pan to wear out quickly!
Contributed by Jenny Marshall, 19th January 2009
Contributed by Jenny Marshall, 19th January 2009
Easy Opener
Maybe this method is widely known, but my husband still seems mystified by it so - maybe not. If you're having problems to open a jar just tap (with gusto but leave the lid and jar intact) the sides of the lid a few times with a knife-handle or a spoon. The lid should turn easily after that. Another trick is to (carefully) insert the tip of scissors under the lid, into the little gap between the lid and the jar and use the scissors as a wedge - one VERY gentle pull should be enough. You'll hear a 'pop' and the jar is open.
Contributed by Elisa, Butler, 26th May 2008
Contributed by Elisa, Butler, 26th May 2008
No More Tangled Cords
With so many cords going into and out of our TV, DVD, video, set top box etc. it was always confusing when plugging into the power or the various equipment. I now use the bread tags, which clip over the leads and using a fine Texta I write the appliance on the bread tag. This makes it so much easier to identify the cords and saves much frustration. Contributed by Dolph, Happy Valle, 23rd January, 2007
Prolonging the Life of Your Toaster
A recent visiting electrician pointed out that the apparent short lifespan of many toasters is because people put frozen bread into them. Defrost your bread first, it prevents excess moisture from rusting and destroying the elements
Contributed by Liz, Hong Kong, June 20th 2006
Contributed by Liz, Hong Kong, June 20th 2006