Categories
Health

5 Tips to Improve Sleep Quality

There are lots of people who find difficulty sleeping in spite of the fact that they try different methods and even sleeping aids and drugs.

If you suffer from sleeping problems and wonder how to improve sleep quality then you must ensure that your sleeping environment is good.

If you do not have a very good and sound sleeping environment, it is quite probable for you to have sleepless nights.

How To Improve Sleep Quality

Tips For How To Improve Sleep Quality:

Here are some effective tips for how to improve sleep quality.

Keep Noise Away from the Bedroom

If you want to improve the quality of your sleep, then it is necessary for you to keep noise away from the bedroom. Appliances like television and radio should be positioned in some other room of the house. Make it a point, not to use these appliances in the bedroom.

Keep Light Away from the Bedroom

There are many people who do not have the habit of sleeping in the dark. However, it has been proved through studies that you might not have a very deep sleep if the lights are turned on in the bedroom.

Keep the Bedroom Clean

It is not a good experience to sleep in a bedroom that has unpleasant smells and is quite humid. There are even people who have the habit of eating in their bedrooms. This is something that should be completely avoided.

If you want to have good sleep, then you should have fresh air in your room. This will clearly give you an answer to the question how to improve sleep quality.

Keep the Bedroom Clean

Mattress also play a very important. You should always place your body on a comfortable mattress. Choose a good mattress to make sure you will now have problem with your back or your body.

One tip here, if your current mattress is already old but you do not want to replace it yet, you can buy a mattress topper to add more comfort. A topper is much more affordable and can renew your mattress.

Listen to Soothing Music

Good music is soothing to the ears and it can be of good help to people looking for an improvisation of their sleep quality. However, the choice of music and whether music will really be of help in improving sleep quality depends upon the habits formed in people.

Ease Stress

Easing the stress and the tension that you need to go through the entire day can help you in improving your sleep quality. You can ease your stress through progressive relaxation of the muscles and meditation.

Categories
Home Guide

How to Remove Urine Stains from Your Mattress

clean Urine Stains on Mattress

When it comes to mattress stains, there is one specific type that occurs more often than not, and yet people avoid mentioning it directly. It’s dirty and awkward. From children and pets? Totally understandable. But from you? We don’t judge, but most people will. We are talking about urine accidents. Are you searching for a helpful and straightforward guideline on dealing with these smelly smudges? You’ve got it. This article will show you the way to remove urine stains from your mattress.

Urine stains – The issues

How to Remove Urine Stains from MattressOne, every stain should be tended to as soon as possible. But as we have previously mentioned, bed-wetting incidents are rather embarrassing to approach, especially for children who are unable to clean by themselves yet afraid of being scolded. By the time the trouble is reported, the urine has got into the mattress or mattress topper and settled there, making it extra difficult to remove.

Two, the main component of urine is uric acid, which has an ugly color and an obnoxious smell. Removing the yellow remnants and getting rid of the odor? Not a fun task to do but not impossible either.

How to clean urine stains on mattresses

Preparation:

  • A few pieces of clean cloth
  • Spray bottle
  • Baking soda
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Laundry detergent
  • Vinegar

If this unwanted accident happens to you, the very first move of yours should be trying to blot the wetness as much as you can. You can use a sponge, a paper towel, or a wet/dry vacuum, but be careful and avoid rubbing the stain too hard. This will get the urine sinking deeper when our purpose is the total opposite. Then you strip the bed bare and wash the cover right away.

If you didn’t take care of the issue immediately, vinegar would be the best assistant. Blot the vinegar until it’s dry, then you can move onto the next instruction.

Sprinkle baking soda on the stained area to absorb any moisture remaining. When the powder changes its color, you might vacuum it up and repeat the step until the white shade doesn’t darken anymore.

Sprinkle baking soda on mattress
Sprinkle baking soda on mattress

That’s when the stain is new and wet. What if it has dried up already?

Prepare a mixture of hydrogen peroxide (8 oz), baking soda (3 tablespoons), and liquid detergent (several drops) in a spray bottle. Some articles recommend essential oils for a nice fragrance, but we don’t. We are doing our best to free the mattress from the ammoniac odor, therefore the oil scent is likely to be removed as well.

Tips:

  • Do not shake the bottle vigorously. We don’t want a mess of bubbles to clean up in addition to the pee stain, do we?
  • This mixture is a strong bleach, you might want to use it on white mattresses only. For colored ones, white vinegar is a good alternative.
  • Our solution also works on bloodstains.

Target the spots by dipping the cloth into the mixture and dabbing the stain. Be generous with the amount you apply on the mattress, but do not soak it, or it will take longer to dry.

What if the stain is more wayward than you think? Try this dry foam solution of dry laundry powder (3 tablespoons) and water (15ml). You will get a paste after mixing them evenly. Spread it over the stain.

Tips:

  • Be cautious with the laundry powder you use! If there is an oxygenated component, it can do harm to the mattress.
  • Consider an enzymatic cleaner if the culprit to your dirty mattress is a pet. It’s better at neutralizing odors.

Wait for the dry foam to settle before scraping it off with a spoon. You have been very careful and gentle through the process above, keep it up with this nearly final step, unless you want to damage the mattress.

Use the baking soda once more to get rid of the annoying smell of ammonia and laundry detergent. To dry out thoroughly, it needs about 18 hours. Hence, you should find another sleep arrangement and give it a whole night for the best result.

Vacuum to ensure the baking soda and the dry foam are all lifted off the mattress. With the nozzle, you can reach into the smaller crevices.

clean Urine Stains on Mattress

Tips: In case of any remnant remaining on the mattress, wet a cloth with hydrogen peroxide and dab it at the stubborn pieces until they are removed.

To wrap it up

That was a lot of work! Would you like to save your self from going through so much by doing some preventative methods? We recommend using a mattress topper or waterproof mattress protector. Not only does it act as a shield against spills and stains, but it also helps extend the longevity of the mattress by blocking out dust and allergens. We were surprised by the number of consumers who didn’t know all warranties would be voided if the mattress was stained, intentionally or not.

Urine stains are troublesome to handle, but by following our instruction, you will have your comfortable and clean mattress back in no time.

 

Categories
Buying Guide

Tips on Choosing Mattress Topper

Mattress toppers might be the solution for either too-soft or too-firm mattresses while costing only as much as a part of the price to purchase a new mattress. Mattress toppers are widely used and available in various styles, and this guideline will hopefully help you through the difficulties of decision.

What is a mattress topper?

best mattress topperMany online markets use the terms for mattress’ additional products interchangeably, but they are dissimilar with exclusive function and features which you might want to pay attention to if you want to make a smart choice.

  • Covers, protectors and encasements: They prevent spills and stains as well as allergens and bugs from getting into the mattress. Thus, the main feature of theirs are protection.
  • Pads: They are often referred to as an alternative of mattress toppers, but they differ greatly. The pads are designed to protect but with more padding in order to provide comfort and several enhanced properties, for example, temperature regulation.
  • Toppers: They are usually much thicker than the previously mentioned products and can be used simultaneously to improve both protection and comfort.

Do your requirements fit under the category of another support layer instead of involving external agents? You have come to right place. Please read on!

Notices when choosing a topper

Mattress toppers come in various sizes and materials, the amount of results you might receive from searching the key word up on the internet will be huge. And the best way for you to overcome the confusion and make the best decision? Be aware of what you need beforehand. Here’s a list of key points worth considering prior to the material of your dreamy topper.

Thickness and density

mattress topperThe thickness of a topper also varies, the thinnest at 2 inches and the thickest might reach as much as 6 inches. The thicker the topper is, the firmer it feels, you may need these thick options if you are on the plus size of bodyweight or have the habit of sleeping on your side.

On the other hand, the density is also crucial in defining how much support will be provided. Density presents the pounds of material per cubic foot of the topper. Basically, the higher density, the more support offered. 2 pounds in density is ideal if you need little support, 4 pounds will suffice if you seriously need pressure relieving and comfort, and 6 pounds are mostly for people with medical needs.

Firmness or softness?

In case you are suffering back pain and soreness from body misalignment, memory foam and latex are more helpful than other materials.

Allergies

Some materials are created to protect the mattress against allergies than others. Bed bugs, dust mites, mildew and mold are things you would like to keep away from your family.

Is it easy for moving and cleaning?

The topper won’t magically transfer itself to your bed. You need to remove the packaging, bring it to bed and later on remove it for cleansing. An overweight topper means so much struggle and burden.

Some materials aren’t to be washed by machine, if you find washing by hands such a chore, this is a significant point to reckon.

Brands

Unsurprisingly, it’s highly recommended to choose a product from old-school brands that have made a name in the market, regardless of what you are going to buy. These brands are very unlikely to promote and sell something under average and even if they do make a mistake, they will be more than willing to replace the faulted product with a brand new one.

Warranty

Always, a consumer should know what they are in for and how to utilize the rights they have upon purchasing something. The warranty time for mattress toppers ranges from 1 to 5 years, 2 years is the most common. But, a topper compressed under weights over time won’t be valid for replacement.

Price

After reading through the list, it should be transparent how important your needs are rather than just checking the price. Many expensive toppers might not fit you best even though they receive good reviews and no doubt about their quality – they are simply not for you.

Usually, the costliest is those made from latex and memory foam, feather and fine cotton belong to the medium range. Polyester and common cotton are rather cheap. You should focus on finding a topper based on your determined requirements and a reasonable price.

Which material to choose?

Memory foam and latex: They are great at providing support and comfort and very durable but don’t release heat absorbed from bodies. Latex is slightly firmer and more expensive, but it has better resistance towards allergens. Memory foam and latex toppers are our most recommended.

latex mattress topper
A latex mattress topper

Feathers: Not a good choice if you are allergic to feathers and in need of firmness, but a perfect option if you love the luxurious feel and seek excellent temperature regulation.

Wool: Soft and comfortable, resistant to bed bugs and mites, temperature adjustment and durability. The cons to this natural material are it comes at a high price and doesn’t have the same cushioning as memory foam does.

Cotton and polyester: They have a vast range from organic to synthetic, easy to clean and definitely not going to leave a damage on your back account. Yet, disadvantages still exist. They are not as durable as other materials.

In conclusion

It isn’t all that hard to figure out what you want, is it? Mattress toppers can save you a good load of money instead of a new purchase even if the numerous models of them can be overwhelming at first. By referring to both our key points and our recommended materials, hopefully, you have achieved a clearer picture of the right topper for you.

Categories
Recipes

Pumpkin Pie Pancakes

PUMPKIN PIE PANCAKES
Pumpkin Pie Pancakes

Ingredients
2 eggs ( large )
1 1/4 cups milk ( (can use buttermilk) )
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/3 cup pumpkin ( puree )
1 1/2 cups wheat flour, white, all-purpose
3/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons Baking powder
1/4 cup milk ( malted powder )
1 tablespoon Sugar, brown, packed
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon Lemon juice

Directions
1. Place egg whites in medium mixing bowl and set aside.
2. Mix the remaining ingredients in a large bowl, including the remaining yolks, until well incorporated.
3. Mix the egg whites that were set aside, with either a hand mixer or by hand until they form stiff peaks when the whisk or beaters are pulled out and inverted.
4. Add in 1/4 of the egg white mixture to the batter and carefully fold in. Pour in remaining egg whites and gently fold in until incorporated.
5. Let the batter rest for 15 minutes while preheating a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Do not mix the batter again once it has rested, as this will deflate the happy air bubbles you have worked so hard to make.
6. Once water drops sprinkled onto the skillet dance around in the pan, it is ready for the batter. Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup for medium size pancakes, and carefully pour onto skillet.
7. Let these bake undisturbed until they are dry around the edges, and bubbles are starting to break on the surface. Flip them over and bake another 30 seconds-1 minute or until browned on the bottom.
8. Repeat with remaining pancake batter.
9. Top with whipped cream, real maple syrup, and enjoy!

Tips for Success

-If the pancakes are coming out too thin, add a bit more flour into the batter to thicken it up.
-If they are too thick and dry, add some more milk.
-If your non stick skillet is pretty good, no extra butter, cooking spray, or oil is needed. I never use any, and they never stick.
-Pancakes only need to be flipped once, so be patient, they don’t take that long to cook.
-Adjust the temperature as necessary, if they are getting to dark or too light.
-Letting the batter rest 15 minutes is very important, it lets the baking powder do its job, don’t skip if you don’t have to.

Categories
Recipes

Everything Topped Cheesy Cheddar Burger Buns

One of my blogger dreams has come true.  I have the privilege of partnering with King Arthur Flour to bring you this new recipe!!!  If you have read my blog posts, even once, you probably have figured out I like King Arthur Flour, their recipes, their products, and the people behind the company.  Hands down, if I could move anywhere in the United States, my husband already knows it would be Vermont…right next to King Arthur Flour headquarters.  Yep, that is where I would be.

When I was given the opportunity to make a new recipe featuring several ingredients and products from King Arthur Flour, I was over the moon.  I still am in fact!  They were kind enough to send me a bag of their White Whole Wheat Flour, Vermont Cheese Powder, Everything Bread and Bagel Topping, and a super nifty dough whisk to try out in my new recipe.  Have you ever heard of a dough whisk?  No?  Neither had I until they sent me one to try out.  If you are going to make bread dough without a stand mixer, then this is the tool to have.  You will never make bread dough with a fork, a spoon, a spatula, or anything else one may use once you try this out. As you can see in the picture above, those are most of the super ingredients they sent.  The flour had been used already, so I figured you didn’t need a picture of a messy bag.  I’m thoughtful like that.

Knowing that King Arthur Flour products deserve the best, I took the baked buns over to Larry Berger Photography, to have professional pictures taken.  Lucky for me, he is also my dad, so it worked out well, and you can  blame him for the visually induced drool fest I know you’re experiencing.

King Arthur Flour products are the highest quality one can find anywhere, and I am utterly addicted.  I used to get gift cards to places like Kohl’s and Sephora, but now everyone knows to get me a King Arthur Flour gift card and I am a happy baker.  Believe me, you won’t be disappointed.  If you have never tried their products, you should run to your computer and check them out at King Arthur Flour’s website.

These hamburger buns have two secrets:  The first secret is that they hare made with 50% King Arthur Flour White Whole Wheat Flour, which has all the goodness of whole wheat flour, with the great baking ability of all purpose flour.  It gives them more flavor than they would with all purpose alone.  The second secret, is that it is doubly loaded with cheese.  I was thrilled to get to try King Arthur Flour’s Vermont Cheese Powder, as I had seen many of their recipes that called for it, but never had the pleasure of trying.  This stuff smells and tastes AMAZING.  Did I mention you can use it to make macaroni and cheese?  Uh, yea.  That is next on my list.  In addition to that, I threw in several ounces of diced Colby jack cheese…this buns could not be loaded with more cheese flavor.

Crowning glory on these hamburger buns?  King Arthur Flour’s Everything Bread and Bagel Topping.  For all you everything bagel lovers out there, these are calling your name.  It is a perfect blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, and onion, and paired with the cheese, it is a flavor explosion in your mouth.

Can you see the light, airy, moist interior on that burger bun?  It is like a pillow of hamburger bun heaven, yet still sturdy enough to stand up to the juiciness of a homemade burger.

See that gorgeous King Arthur Flour individual pie and burger bun pan in the shot above?  Well, I am thrilled to tell you that King Arthur Flour has so generously offered to give one away to a reader!!!  Make sure to check back at Mommy’s Sweet Confessions in the next day or two, as the giveaway will be posted separately.  These are the highest quality pans I have ever used, and I have used this one to make pies, burger buns, and even giant muffins!!

Before I get to the recipe, did you know there is so much to learn and see at King Arthur Flour?  Check out these links below for social media contacts, recipes, special offers, baking assistance, videos, and more about the incredible company that is King Arthur Flour, and make sure to follow them on their social media sites, because they have the greatest posts!: