Regular cleaning of home water tanks is crucial to maintaining the quality and safety of the stored water. The process helps remove sediment, bacteria, and other contaminants while prolonging the tank’s lifespan. This article will present a comprehensive, step-by-step process for cleaning your home water tank. Additionally, we will discuss important safety measures to consider throughout the cleaning process, ensuring the well-being of yourself and your household. Step-by-step process to clean a water tank Here are the steps to clean a water tank: Conduct a thorough inspection of the water tank Before initiating the cleaning process, it is important to assess the condition of your water tank. The inspection can include the tank’s depth, the debris’s location, dirt and other sediments that need to be cleared, the tank’s design, and its overall condition. You can also go over the tank and look for potentially risky cleaning areas. A risk assessment helps avoid mishaps and ensures a smoother cleaning process. Disinfect the tools Cleaning a tank may require using many tools, including bleach, a mop, a vacuum that can be either dry or wet, and a pressure washer or pump if needed. These tools may have been stored for an extended period and are likely to harbor bacteria. So it’s important to disinfect them thoroughly before use. Skipping this step would transfer the contamination to the water tank and, ultimately, to the water you consume. To maintain hygiene standards, you can prepare a solution of one part bleach to four parts hot water in a clean bucket and wash the tools. Drain the water tank It’s important to ensure that the water tank is empty before beginning the cleaning work. Open the exit valve to release the water, preventing localized flooding. Collect any remaining water using a bucket. Remember to conserve water by utilizing it for other purposes, such as watering plants or cleaning outdoor areas.

As the holiday season approaches, shoppers and bargain hunters gear up for one of the most anticipated shopping events of the year – Cyber Monday. This digital shopping extravaganza follows the traditional Black Friday, offering incredible deals and discounts across various categories. Looking at the previous trends, here are the 50 best Cyber Monday sales one can expect in 2023, categorized to help one make the most of their shopping experience. When does Cyber Monday 2023 commence? Although Cyber Monday officially falls on November 27th, many retailers have launched deals early. As a result, Cyber Monday deals may appear as early as the weekend before the actual date. Additionally, most retailers extend their sales for the entire week of Cyber Monday. Popular Cyber Monday sales categories Gadgets Laptops Cyber Monday sees impressive discounts on various laptops from brands like Apple, Asus, Dell, HP, and Lenovo. The deals on Amazon, Best Buy, Newegg, Walmart, or directly from manufacturers range from $100 to $500 off or more in some cases. For example, last year, Dell had standout deals with up to 50% off on laptops, spanning Chromebooks for daily use, premium XPS models, and high-performance Alienware gaming laptops. One can look for bundles featuring accessories like wireless mice, laptop bags, and software subscriptions. Smartphones The smartphone market is highly competitive, and Cyber Monday sees many brands unveiling attractive discounts, bundle offers, and trade-in deals to entice customers. As 5G technology evolves, deals might be tailored explicitly to 5G-enabled smartphones. Brands like Samsung and OnePlus can provide massive discounts through major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Newegg. iPhones Apple usually doesn’t offer direct discounts during Cyber Monday. Still, the tech giant provides trade-in offers, gift cards, unique financing options on select products, or bundles through authorized retailers and its online store. Tablets and e-readers Tablets and e-readers are expected to remain in demand, especially for remote work and online education.

Unknown to you, several carcinogenic substances could be hiding within your home. A carcinogen can be anything that causes cancer. It can be present in the air, in a regular product, in beverages and foods, or it can be released from several appliances, furniture, and other items in your home. Being exposed to these substances doesn’t necessarily mean you will have cancer. However, prolonged exposure can increase the risk of the condition. Household items that can increase cancer risk Carpets In most cases, carpets are made from synthetic fibers. These fibers are usually chemically treated and recess gases over time. These gases can contain toxic substances that increase the risk of hormonal imbalance, respiratory problems, and cancer. Also, you may have observed a distinct smell when you bring home a brand-new carpet. Although most people attribute this smell to the newness of the carpet, these smells are actually from chemical compounds linked to several health disorders. Sofas If your sofa was manufactured before 2013, it’s time to get rid of it. This is because, before 2013, several cushioned household items, such as sofas, love seats, and so on, were treated with TDCIPP. It is a chemical that works as a flame-retardant. That is, it helps to prevent burning or slows down the spread of fire. While this is a great advantage, TDICPP is also a carcinogenic substance. It can be absorbed by the body and enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of cancer. Leather recliner Chromium (VI) is often used for tanning of leather to stabilize the material. It is also used in wood furniture, cement, and a few pigments and dyes in textiles. While it has industrial benefits, chromium is a known carcinogenic substance. Tanned leather that has been treated with chromium has about 4% to 5% chromium residue.

It’s not uncommon for people to be drawn towards expensive shoes, especially branded ones. However, owning a pair of pricey shoes comes with a responsibility to take proper care of them. Unfortunately, many individuals who invest in such footwear often make mistakes when it comes to wearing or maintaining them, which can lead to the shoes wearing out quickly. To help, here are nine things one must avoid while caring for expensive shoes. Not preparing shoes for storage When someone is done wearing the shoes, they may put them away without preparing them for storage. The individual needs to account for a few things, especially if they are storing it long term, including sorting the shoes into similar groupings. They must follow this by thoroughly cleaning the surface of the shoes and removing the laces. One should condition and polish leather shoes to prevent them from getting brittle and cracking during storage. Neglecting the proper storage container Another error is neglecting the use of an ideal storage container. Various options might work for each unique situation. An original shoe box is the cheapest option and may also stack uniformly. Even labeling makes it easy to find the shoes at a later time. Another option is stackable plastic boxes that are sturdy and could stack high. The clear material also lets one see the shoes in each box. One could also try inexpensive shoe organizers that can be purchased and fit as per the individual’s needs for size and space. The organizer makes shoes easily accessible if placed in the bedroom or closet. Wearing the same shoes daily One may love wearing the same pair of shoes every day. However, they should note that some textures, like leather, are neutral, living materials. Therefore, moisture due to heat may compromise its quality if the shoe is always worn.

One may need money for various reasons, whether it is for funding further education costs, buying a new house, or starting up a new business. A steady income may cover most of one’s regular expenses, but major purchases or emergencies may require one to borrow funds. The banks and federal organizations offer many options for people to borrow money with varying interest rates and repayment schedules. Read on to understand the common types of loans. Personal loans Personal finance is a versatile option that can help fulfill various needs. It can be availed to cover expenses like emergency bills, vacation, medical treatment, relocation to a different city, home renovation, wedding, or buying expensive electronics like tablets, computers, washers, and refrigerators. Usually, the repayment period can range from a few months up to a couple of years and the interest rate can either be fixed or variable, depending on the preference of the borrower. One can apply for personal loans via a bank or an online lender. One can choose between a secured and unsecured personal loan . In case of a secured loan, the borrower needs to provide a collateral that can back it up. This collateral can be any valuable, such as a vehicle, savings account, life insurance policy, or gold, which acts as a type of security for the lender who can claim it if the borrower fails to repay the loan amount. Secured loans are relatively cheaper than unsecured ones as the lender has a collateral backing. Alternatively, unsecured loans don’t need any collateral and are also known as signature loans since the lender does not have any security of the loan except the borrower’s signature. Unsecured loans are more convenient and quicker than secured ones, but they also tend to be costlier or have higher interest rates.

While aging is inevitable, taking good care of the skin by adopting healthier lifestyle choices can help one age gracefully. The aging process causes the skin to lose its elasticity and radiance. Modern-day moisturizers come with anti-aging ingredients, like retinol and collagen, meant for mature skin. Moisturizing the skin can enhance its glow by improving its firmness and elasticity. This can also help one look youthful. So here are the best moisturizers for mature skin: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream CeraVe has some of the best products for skin health. Its moisturizer contains ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid. The combination of these ingredients helps hydrate the skin. The product has a rich, creamy texture that does not feel heavy or oily on the face. Additionally, CeraVe is a fragrance-free moisturizer, making it perfect for people with sensitive skin. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Although mature skin tends to lose its moisture, many continue to have oily skin throughout their life. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel is a lightweight moisturizer free of alcohol and oil, containing ingredients like glycerine and hyaluronic acid. The gel helps keep the skin hydrated and plump and also improves the appearance of fine lines, among other signs of aging. SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 This cream is highly recommended by dermatologists and is packed with a few skin-friendly ingredients. Rich in fatty acids and ceramides, the cream also has cholesterol that helps lock moisture. The product has an antioxidant-infused formula. It also contains vitamin E, which helps in cell reproduction, protecting the skin against environmental damage, and skin repair. Paula’s Choice Skin Recovery Replenishing Moisturizer Those dealing with rough skin should try this moisturizer. Its creamy texture offers a much-needed dose of hydration to skin that has dulled with age. The antioxidants in the cream help in skin repair, while plant oils offer a dewy radiance to the skin.

Cruising the high seas is a sought-after attraction for many travelers, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. While cruise ships are known for their luxurious amenities and all-inclusive packages, passengers must abide by certain rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. These restrictions extend to carrying certain items on the ship. While some might seem obvious, there are several items that one may not know are forbidden on ships. 1. Irons and steamers Wrinkled clothes might be a pet peeve for many, but cruise ships don’t allow irons or steamers in cabins. This is mainly to avoid any items that can lead to fire hazards. One can instead carry wrinkle-release products for a quick fix. Many ships also offer laundry services to keep one’s attire wrinkle-free, but it’s best to check beforehand with the cruise ship about this particular service. 2. Household appliances Like clothing irons and steamers, coffee makers, kettles, toasters, hot plates, and other household appliances that generate heat are considered to pose a fire risk and are not allowed aboard. That said, a hair dryer, curling iron, straightener, or portable electric fan are some things that are allowed. 3. Electric blankets Electric blankets may be confiscated during embarkation since they could compromise safety protocols, and cruise lines maintain strict fire prevention measures to protect passengers and crew. 4. Power strips or surge-protected power bars Surge-protected power bars are electric devices that safeguard one’s electronics from voltage spikes and surges. These power bars feature built-in surge protection technology that controls potential electrical damage. However, these devices are not allowed on cruise ships because they may overload the ship’s electrical circuits or interfere with power distribution, posing a fire risk. The ones carried to the ship are usually either approved by the authorities or are non-surge-protected power bars.

While beards have recently regained popularity, their significance has been recognized since prehistoric times. For example, ancient Greeks considered beards to be signs of wisdom and virility. They were also grown to provide warmth, and protection – particularly the mouth and lips – from harmful external agents. Today, beard grooming has become a breeze with the availability of kits and products. Here are some beard grooming mistakes to avoid for a well-maintained, debonair look: Not washing the beard and mustache before trimming Washing one’s beard and mustache before one starts trimming them ensures that the facial hair is well-hydrated, making it easier to cut. This process also gives one an idea of how the beard or stubble will appear once trimmed. Therefore, it is recommended to wash and dry one’s beard before trimming it. Overlooking the importance of a beard shampoo Since the beard surrounds one’s mouth, food particles can get stuck in it. It can also become a breeding point for natural oils and external pollutants, causing the accumulation of bacteria. A beard shampoo can help dislodge accumulated particles and ensure adequate personal hygiene. It is ideal to wash one’s beard once or twice a week and up to thrice a week for dry and oily skin, respectively. Finally, it is important to wash one’s beard with a beard shampoo to maintain the hair. Using a hair shampoo for the beard Contrary to popular belief, a hair shampoo should be used exclusively for the scalp hair and not for facial hair. This is because while a hair shampoo strips the hair off its natural oils and replaces them with the oils it contains, a beard shampoo retains the hair’s natural oils and nourishes it further with its constituents. It also helps enhance the beard’s smell. Not detangling knots while combing It is important to comb one’s beard and detangle its knots, preferably using a beard brush.

No matter your age, your eyes are the most expressive part of your face. They are often perceived as a reflection of your health and mood. The contrast between the color of your iris and its white backdrop grants your eyes a sense of brightness, excitement, and health. Taking good care of your eyes can highlight this contrast and make your eyes sparkle. So, here are ten tips that may help do the same: Avoid prolonged exposure to dry air Air can be arid in high altitudes, in deserted climates, and on airplanes. It is essential to avoid these areas or use a humidifier when possible. You can also be exposed to dry air when riding a motorcycle or using hair dryers or car heaters that blow wind directly into your eyes. Avoiding prolonged exposure to dry air and keeping yourself hydrated can prevent your eyes from getting itchy and red. Use green tea bags Placing cooled green tea bags on your eyelids can help you reduce swelling and discomfort, mainly if you deal with puffy or irritated eyes. This is because of polyphenols like Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on the cornea. To derive the most benefits out of them, steep the tea bags in warm water. Remove and let them cool completely, or place them in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. Once chilled, place them on your eyelids for 10 minutes. Eat eye-healthy foods Certain foods can promote their health and make them appear brighter. Consider the following recommendations to adapt to your daily food intake: Consuming Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can help you fight dry eye syndrome. Good sources of these fatty acids include mackerel, salmon, sardines, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds. Eating more fruits and vegetables Fruits and vegetables are essential for vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.