With winter fast approaching we’re all starting to think how we’ll weather the cold. While freezing outdoor temperatures aren’t ideal, there are ways to embrace the cold when it comes to cleaning the home and household chores. Best-selling author, Julie Edelman, “The Accidental Housewife”, in working with Tide Coldwater, has developed some simple tips and tricks to help you maintain a cleaner home, while saving energy and money. - Make sure you’re getting the most out of your appliances o Instead of using that oven, particularly if it’s electric, cook with a microwave, crock-pot or toaster oven which can use up to 75% less energy. o Turn your washing machine to the cold cycle. 80% of the energy used in doing laundry is in heating the water. Wash clothes in cold water with a detergent like Tide Coldwater, it actually removes stains better in cold water than the next leading detergent in warm water. o If you have a high efficiency machine you’ll want to use new Tide Coldwater HE. You’ll save up to 50% on energy in every load done in your HE machine by switching to cold water. o Make sure to de-lint your dryer – it saves energy and traps additional dust and allergens, so it’s a healthier way to dry your clothes. - Don’t leave your cleaning for the spring o Lots of allergies and their symptoms are attributed to common types of mold and mildew , so keep windows open to let steam escape, and clean your counters with vinegar o Your kids’ stuffed animals are breeding grounds for bacteria and mites. Get rid of them by putting their favorite stuffed animals into a plastic bag with baking soda o The drip pan under your fridge can be a perfect breeding ground for mold. It’s also a perfect drinking fountain for roaches so clean and dry the pan often. For more information and tips visit: www.TheAccidentalHousewife.com