BALMAIN
Quilt Cover Set + Pillow Sham + Fitted Sheet
$159
600 TC
100% Cotton Sateen
CANNON
Quilt Cover Set
$128.70
390 TC
100% Jacquard Cotton Sateen
COZY LUXURY
Quilt Cover Set (Embroidery)
$188
460TC
100% Cotton Sateen
JEAN PERRY
Quilt Cover Set
$159.60
500TC
Premium 100% Egyptian Cotton Jacquard Sateen
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, February 2, 2009
Sony Ericsson W910i Walkman : Review
Sony Ericsson W910i Walkman
Looking for reviews on this model. Following is what I found
- W910i HSDPA/850/900/1800/1900 MHz
- W918c 850/900/1800/1900 MHz with EDGE for ChinaMainland
General 2G Network GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G Network HSDPA 2100
Announced 2007, June
Status Available. Released 2007, October
Size Dimensions 99 x 50 x 12.5 mm
Weight 86 g
Display Type TFT, 256K colors
Size 240 x 320 pixels, 2.4 inches
- Accelerometer sensor for auto-rotate
- Wallpapers, screensavers
Ringtones Type Polyphonic (72 channels), MP3, AAC
Customization Composer, download, order now
Vibration Yes
Memory Phonebook Yes, Photo call
Call records 30 received, dialed and missed calls
Card slot Memory Stick Micro (M2)
- 40 MB internal memory
Data GPRS Class 10 (4+1/3+2 slots), 32 - 48 kbps
HSCSD Yes
EDGE Yes
3G HSDPA, 3.6 Mbps (W910i only)
WLAN No
Bluetooth Yes, v2.0 with A2DP
Infrared port No
USB Yes, v2.0
Features Messaging SMS, EMS, MMS, Email, Instant Messaging
Browser WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML(NetFront 3.3), RSS reader
Games Yes + downloadable, order now
Colors Hearty Red, Noble Black, Havana Bronze, Silky White, Lipstick Pink, Prime Silver
Camera 2 MP, 1600x1200 pixels, video(QVGA@15fps); secondary videocall camera
- Java MIDP 2.0
- FM radio with RDS
- Walkman 3.0 player
- Shake control
- SensMe
- TrackID music recognition
- T9
- Image viewer
- Picture editor
- Organiser
- Voice memo
- Built-in handsfree
Battery Standard battery, Li-Ion 930 mAh (BST-39)
Stand-by Up to 400 h
Talk time Up to 9 h
Source : Cnet Asia
Rating : 7 out of 10
The good: Slim design; built-in motion sensor; large 2.4-inch LCD; HSDPA connectivity.
The bad: Walkman button too small; poor location of connector port; no onboard 3.5mm audio jack; sub-par camera.
The Walkman series is a huge success for the Japanese-Swedish phone-maker and it's not difficult to see why. One of the latest in the lineup is the W910i which sports a new media-browsing interface, built-in sensor motion for both music and games, and is backed by a strong suite of cellular connectivity features. Two colors are available for the W910i--Hearty Red and Noble Black--at a current retail of S$798 (US$534.03) without plan.
Design
Though Sony Ericsson is not best known for its slider designs, we had no issues with the sliding mechanism of this music phone. It slides up smoothly and in a controlled manner to reveal a numeric keypad. At 12.5mm, it is extremely slim and weighs a mere 86g. Like most of the recent Sony Ericsson handsets, the W910i drops the Return key and sports Call/End keys instead.
Like the Sony Ericsson W550i, the W910i also comes with two tiny additional buttons on both sides of the earpiece above the LCD screen. While we didn't find any assigned use for the two buttons in the preinstalled games, we did find them useful as shortcut keys to the image library from the main menu. In the camera mode, the two gaming buttons double as camera control keys.
The tapered design of the W910i's bottom area has pros and cons. The good thing is the top row of the numeric keys has more "breathing space" for the thumbs during typing. However, this design on the bottom slab also means its single connector has to be placed elsewhere. This is found on its left side, a placement we felt was not ideal. Headphones should ideally be jacked into a phone or music player from the top or bottom, so the device can be placed in a pocket comfortably.
The W910i's keypad is flush and has a three-column layout.
We normally expect keys on slider keypads to be flushed with the phone's body, a necessity because you don't want raised keys to block the closing action. While the W910i's keys provide sufficient relief, we felt that the three-column layout does not give enough distinction between keys in the vertical direction. It may have been a better idea to have smaller keys but with each one separated, with a divider, from the adjacent one.
While some people may find the W910i a tad too wide, one of the key advantages of this form factor is really a more comfortable fit to the face when making phone calls. More importantly, the W910i also comes with a large and crisp QVGA display that certainly makes it ideal for watching videos as well as playing games in landscape viewing mode. A useful built-in light sensor just beside the right control key helps to automatically adjust the brightness of the screen when the phone is used in different lighting environments.
Those who plan to access the battery or SIM will have to take note. The battery cover is locked in place by a tiny plastic catch which should not be too difficult to break. Fortunately, the M2 card slot is located on its own just below the volume control keys.
Features
Bearing the Walkman brand, this phone has to deliver when it comes to music. A Walkman button is found along its top edge to quickly access the tracks, though we find it too small for our liking. It's even harder to reach it with the slider up.
A motion sensor has been built into the W910i as well. This not only allows the user to control playback by shaking the handset, but also changes the orientation of the screen automatically in the media browser. If you ask us, the shake-to-change-tracks proposition is somewhat gimmicky and we don't see ourselves using it often after the initial novelty. We'd rather pipe music wirelessly to our HBH-DS980 Bluetooth stereo earphones and switch tracks on the accessory.
Although most of the recent Sony Ericsson models sport the new media-browsing interface, the W910i has a unique SensMe feature. It sorts music according to its tempo (fast and slow) and the mood (happy and sad) it evokes in an X/Y-axis graphical interface. So at a glance, one can see songs which are fast and happy, sad and slow, or happy and slow. We haven't come across any tracks which are fast and sad, so the top left quadrant is usually empty. Using the directional control, we could navigate the graph, which displays the title of the songs selected in a ticker tape on the screen.
With only 40MB of memory, music lovers will need an expansion card for their tunes. The format used in this handset is the Memory Stick Micro M2, Sony's flash media which is almost similar in size to the microSD format. They are usually priced at a slight premium compared to microSDs, though, so increasing the memory may require another chunk of change. What disappointed us was that Sony Ericsson didn't include a 3.5mm audio jack on the W910i, which would have been appropriate for a music phone.
Installed on our W910i test unit are three gaming titles. The Lumines Block Challenge, which is a modified version of the hit title Lumines on the Sony PSP, is a block puzzle game with a musical twist to it. However, the Marble Madness 3D game takes the cake for making use of the onboard motion sensor. The mission is to navigate the marble to the end of the maze by tilting the phone to control the orb. Although there's always the traditional keypad to fall back on, the fun is in playing the game using the motion sensor controls. Racing fans will also enjoy playing the V-Rally 3D game in landscape mode.
Connectivity-wise, the W910i is quite capable. The quadband handset supports HSDPA for high-speed downloads over the cellular network, a good feature to have if listening to or buying tunes over-the-air appeals to you. A front-facing camera above the phone's 2.4-inch LCD is for video calls.
Even though it's positioned as a music phone, the W910i's sub-par camera is admittedly disappointing. There's no autofocus (which accounted for a number of blurry pictures), no LED flash light for shooting in darker environments and no way to do self-protraits. Sometimes we wonder if it's a good idea to have such clear lines between a camera-phone and a music-phone. With Sony Ericsson, the Walkman series is usually fitted with a less-than-satisfactory camera module compared with its Cyber-shot brethren. Notably, users these days don't just look for a handset with a feature that takes priority over other functions. But that's just our take.
Performance And Battery Life
Call quality is decent on the W910i. Even though the onboard speakers are on the underside of the unit, they are slightly propped up by the bottom edge of the handset, so that doesn't affect the audio volume too drastically. While audio quality from the headset was clear and crisp, we did notice that music played using the onboard speakers sounded somewhat flat and a tad too sharp.
The rated battery life of the W910i is 9 hours of talktime (3.5 hours using 3G) and approximately 14.5 days on standby. We managed to use our review unit for about two days with occasional music listening and snapping of photos, used together with voice calls and text messaging.
The bottom line: The W910i is great for those looking to purchase a trendy music phone with a little bit of fun, but which doesn't lack in features, although it's a little pricey.
User Reviews :
Pros: sexy design,great music player,large screen,auto rotate,camera is decent in sunlight,playing games is fun on this cell,excellent battery life.
Cons: bit slow UI,hangs sometimes when listening music player,no AF n flash,costly.
Pros: Good music player, nice/loud sound
Cons: Always hang and auto-restart when listening to songs
Pros: Battery, Design & Slim
Cons: No auto focus, flash, only 2MP!!
Pros: Good sound quality, sens me, auto rotate, slim design.......
Cons: For me is no @ all
Pros: Look, Slider, Auto Rotation, Motion Detecter
Cons: Top Row number bottons have less finger space, especially if u are a lady with manicured nails :)
Pros: great slider form factor, slim design and large screen
Cons: slow firmware, takes time to execute
Pros: Walkman; Megabass
Cons: No 3.5 mm jack, proprietary expensive M2 card
2nd generation W910i is far better
Jun 6, 2008
Rating: 8 out of 10 (Excellent)
Pros: Good Performance~~
Cons: Comes with only 1 gb memory card for this batch of W910i ...
Opinion:
Juz bought 2 sets of W910i last weekend (a white and a red version)And the comments on these latest generation of W910i is as follows:
1) Sound - Better with good earphones than through speaker but not as ideal as the W850i and certain other model/brand. 7/10 ratings.
2) Camera - Good with 2.0 mp (No malfunctioning) 8/10 ratings.
3) User Interface - Very good compared to other brands as usual. 10/10 ratings.
4) Battery Life - varies for my case (maybe its becoz of the connector or quality of battery from the production in China) 6/10 ratings.
5) Hardware - Made of solid materials as usual like other models from SE. 10/10 ratings.
6) Software - Improved and friendly using. 9/10 ratings.
7) Design - Sleek and appropriate. 9/10 ratings.
8) Reception - Comfortably clear and stable. 10/10 ratings.
9) Web surfing - A breeze ... ease using ...and fast. 10/10 ratings.
10) Multi-Tasking - Superb~~ 10/10 ratings.
I actually remedied the battery draining problem with a little adjustment. As there is gaps in the battery compartment...try to paste a 0.2cm thick sticker/paper/plastic (Whatever that doesn't conduct electricity) on the back (Not the battery cover side) of the battery to enable proper connection between phone and battery to prevent charges leaking. Surprisingly, it works normal again for my case. Dun overcharge your battery as this is Lithium based. The batteries are actually very good though its made in China.
Overall this is a very very good phone compared to a lot of brands and models. SE had responded with more stability for this classy model. Best buy at the moment for its price. i would give it a 8/10 ratings overall. SE... Keep it up~~
Looking for reviews on this model. Following is what I found
- W910i HSDPA/850/900/1800/1900 MHz
- W918c 850/900/1800/1900 MHz with EDGE for ChinaMainland
General 2G Network GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G Network HSDPA 2100
Announced 2007, June
Status Available. Released 2007, October
Size Dimensions 99 x 50 x 12.5 mm
Weight 86 g
Display Type TFT, 256K colors
Size 240 x 320 pixels, 2.4 inches
- Accelerometer sensor for auto-rotate
- Wallpapers, screensavers
Ringtones Type Polyphonic (72 channels), MP3, AAC
Customization Composer, download, order now
Vibration Yes
Memory Phonebook Yes, Photo call
Call records 30 received, dialed and missed calls
Card slot Memory Stick Micro (M2)
- 40 MB internal memory
Data GPRS Class 10 (4+1/3+2 slots), 32 - 48 kbps
HSCSD Yes
EDGE Yes
3G HSDPA, 3.6 Mbps (W910i only)
WLAN No
Bluetooth Yes, v2.0 with A2DP
Infrared port No
USB Yes, v2.0
Features Messaging SMS, EMS, MMS, Email, Instant Messaging
Browser WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML(NetFront 3.3), RSS reader
Games Yes + downloadable, order now
Colors Hearty Red, Noble Black, Havana Bronze, Silky White, Lipstick Pink, Prime Silver
Camera 2 MP, 1600x1200 pixels, video(QVGA@15fps); secondary videocall camera
- Java MIDP 2.0
- FM radio with RDS
- Walkman 3.0 player
- Shake control
- SensMe
- TrackID music recognition
- T9
- Image viewer
- Picture editor
- Organiser
- Voice memo
- Built-in handsfree
Battery Standard battery, Li-Ion 930 mAh (BST-39)
Stand-by Up to 400 h
Talk time Up to 9 h
Source : Cnet Asia
Rating : 7 out of 10
The good: Slim design; built-in motion sensor; large 2.4-inch LCD; HSDPA connectivity.
The bad: Walkman button too small; poor location of connector port; no onboard 3.5mm audio jack; sub-par camera.
The Walkman series is a huge success for the Japanese-Swedish phone-maker and it's not difficult to see why. One of the latest in the lineup is the W910i which sports a new media-browsing interface, built-in sensor motion for both music and games, and is backed by a strong suite of cellular connectivity features. Two colors are available for the W910i--Hearty Red and Noble Black--at a current retail of S$798 (US$534.03) without plan.
Design
Though Sony Ericsson is not best known for its slider designs, we had no issues with the sliding mechanism of this music phone. It slides up smoothly and in a controlled manner to reveal a numeric keypad. At 12.5mm, it is extremely slim and weighs a mere 86g. Like most of the recent Sony Ericsson handsets, the W910i drops the Return key and sports Call/End keys instead.
Like the Sony Ericsson W550i, the W910i also comes with two tiny additional buttons on both sides of the earpiece above the LCD screen. While we didn't find any assigned use for the two buttons in the preinstalled games, we did find them useful as shortcut keys to the image library from the main menu. In the camera mode, the two gaming buttons double as camera control keys.
The tapered design of the W910i's bottom area has pros and cons. The good thing is the top row of the numeric keys has more "breathing space" for the thumbs during typing. However, this design on the bottom slab also means its single connector has to be placed elsewhere. This is found on its left side, a placement we felt was not ideal. Headphones should ideally be jacked into a phone or music player from the top or bottom, so the device can be placed in a pocket comfortably.
The W910i's keypad is flush and has a three-column layout.
We normally expect keys on slider keypads to be flushed with the phone's body, a necessity because you don't want raised keys to block the closing action. While the W910i's keys provide sufficient relief, we felt that the three-column layout does not give enough distinction between keys in the vertical direction. It may have been a better idea to have smaller keys but with each one separated, with a divider, from the adjacent one.
While some people may find the W910i a tad too wide, one of the key advantages of this form factor is really a more comfortable fit to the face when making phone calls. More importantly, the W910i also comes with a large and crisp QVGA display that certainly makes it ideal for watching videos as well as playing games in landscape viewing mode. A useful built-in light sensor just beside the right control key helps to automatically adjust the brightness of the screen when the phone is used in different lighting environments.
Those who plan to access the battery or SIM will have to take note. The battery cover is locked in place by a tiny plastic catch which should not be too difficult to break. Fortunately, the M2 card slot is located on its own just below the volume control keys.
Features
Bearing the Walkman brand, this phone has to deliver when it comes to music. A Walkman button is found along its top edge to quickly access the tracks, though we find it too small for our liking. It's even harder to reach it with the slider up.
A motion sensor has been built into the W910i as well. This not only allows the user to control playback by shaking the handset, but also changes the orientation of the screen automatically in the media browser. If you ask us, the shake-to-change-tracks proposition is somewhat gimmicky and we don't see ourselves using it often after the initial novelty. We'd rather pipe music wirelessly to our HBH-DS980 Bluetooth stereo earphones and switch tracks on the accessory.
Although most of the recent Sony Ericsson models sport the new media-browsing interface, the W910i has a unique SensMe feature. It sorts music according to its tempo (fast and slow) and the mood (happy and sad) it evokes in an X/Y-axis graphical interface. So at a glance, one can see songs which are fast and happy, sad and slow, or happy and slow. We haven't come across any tracks which are fast and sad, so the top left quadrant is usually empty. Using the directional control, we could navigate the graph, which displays the title of the songs selected in a ticker tape on the screen.
With only 40MB of memory, music lovers will need an expansion card for their tunes. The format used in this handset is the Memory Stick Micro M2, Sony's flash media which is almost similar in size to the microSD format. They are usually priced at a slight premium compared to microSDs, though, so increasing the memory may require another chunk of change. What disappointed us was that Sony Ericsson didn't include a 3.5mm audio jack on the W910i, which would have been appropriate for a music phone.
Installed on our W910i test unit are three gaming titles. The Lumines Block Challenge, which is a modified version of the hit title Lumines on the Sony PSP, is a block puzzle game with a musical twist to it. However, the Marble Madness 3D game takes the cake for making use of the onboard motion sensor. The mission is to navigate the marble to the end of the maze by tilting the phone to control the orb. Although there's always the traditional keypad to fall back on, the fun is in playing the game using the motion sensor controls. Racing fans will also enjoy playing the V-Rally 3D game in landscape mode.
Connectivity-wise, the W910i is quite capable. The quadband handset supports HSDPA for high-speed downloads over the cellular network, a good feature to have if listening to or buying tunes over-the-air appeals to you. A front-facing camera above the phone's 2.4-inch LCD is for video calls.
Even though it's positioned as a music phone, the W910i's sub-par camera is admittedly disappointing. There's no autofocus (which accounted for a number of blurry pictures), no LED flash light for shooting in darker environments and no way to do self-protraits. Sometimes we wonder if it's a good idea to have such clear lines between a camera-phone and a music-phone. With Sony Ericsson, the Walkman series is usually fitted with a less-than-satisfactory camera module compared with its Cyber-shot brethren. Notably, users these days don't just look for a handset with a feature that takes priority over other functions. But that's just our take.
Performance And Battery Life
Call quality is decent on the W910i. Even though the onboard speakers are on the underside of the unit, they are slightly propped up by the bottom edge of the handset, so that doesn't affect the audio volume too drastically. While audio quality from the headset was clear and crisp, we did notice that music played using the onboard speakers sounded somewhat flat and a tad too sharp.
The rated battery life of the W910i is 9 hours of talktime (3.5 hours using 3G) and approximately 14.5 days on standby. We managed to use our review unit for about two days with occasional music listening and snapping of photos, used together with voice calls and text messaging.
The bottom line: The W910i is great for those looking to purchase a trendy music phone with a little bit of fun, but which doesn't lack in features, although it's a little pricey.
User Reviews :
Pros: sexy design,great music player,large screen,auto rotate,camera is decent in sunlight,playing games is fun on this cell,excellent battery life.
Cons: bit slow UI,hangs sometimes when listening music player,no AF n flash,costly.
Pros: Good music player, nice/loud sound
Cons: Always hang and auto-restart when listening to songs
Pros: Battery, Design & Slim
Cons: No auto focus, flash, only 2MP!!
Pros: Good sound quality, sens me, auto rotate, slim design.......
Cons: For me is no @ all
Pros: Look, Slider, Auto Rotation, Motion Detecter
Cons: Top Row number bottons have less finger space, especially if u are a lady with manicured nails :)
Pros: great slider form factor, slim design and large screen
Cons: slow firmware, takes time to execute
Pros: Walkman; Megabass
Cons: No 3.5 mm jack, proprietary expensive M2 card
2nd generation W910i is far better
Jun 6, 2008
Rating: 8 out of 10 (Excellent)
Pros: Good Performance~~
Cons: Comes with only 1 gb memory card for this batch of W910i ...
Opinion:
Juz bought 2 sets of W910i last weekend (a white and a red version)And the comments on these latest generation of W910i is as follows:
1) Sound - Better with good earphones than through speaker but not as ideal as the W850i and certain other model/brand. 7/10 ratings.
2) Camera - Good with 2.0 mp (No malfunctioning) 8/10 ratings.
3) User Interface - Very good compared to other brands as usual. 10/10 ratings.
4) Battery Life - varies for my case (maybe its becoz of the connector or quality of battery from the production in China) 6/10 ratings.
5) Hardware - Made of solid materials as usual like other models from SE. 10/10 ratings.
6) Software - Improved and friendly using. 9/10 ratings.
7) Design - Sleek and appropriate. 9/10 ratings.
8) Reception - Comfortably clear and stable. 10/10 ratings.
9) Web surfing - A breeze ... ease using ...and fast. 10/10 ratings.
10) Multi-Tasking - Superb~~ 10/10 ratings.
I actually remedied the battery draining problem with a little adjustment. As there is gaps in the battery compartment...try to paste a 0.2cm thick sticker/paper/plastic (Whatever that doesn't conduct electricity) on the back (Not the battery cover side) of the battery to enable proper connection between phone and battery to prevent charges leaking. Surprisingly, it works normal again for my case. Dun overcharge your battery as this is Lithium based. The batteries are actually very good though its made in China.
Overall this is a very very good phone compared to a lot of brands and models. SE had responded with more stability for this classy model. Best buy at the moment for its price. i would give it a 8/10 ratings overall. SE... Keep it up~~
Sunday, February 1, 2009
How to Make Apple Juice Smoothies with Blender
How to Make Apple Juice Smoothies with Blender
1. Apple should be juiced raw, preferably green apple.
2. Apple seeds may be juiced together.
3. Peel all apple that are not organically grown because the peel is where most of the chemical residues can be found, while skins of organically grown apples may be left on.
4. Choose fresh ripe apple Bruised, over or under-ripe apple will produce juices that are neither tasty nor healthful.
5. Turn the blender on and push the pieces through the mouth of blender. Make sure that the pieces are smaller than a golf ball so they will blend completely.
6. Add the liquid ingredients next.
7. Fasten the lid and press the start button. Use high speed for about 20 - 30 seconds.
8. Stop the blender and check to see if the ingredients are well blended. Sometimes the frozen apple will jam under the blade. If there is jammed apple, use a spatula to unjam and blend again.
9. Once the mixture is evenly blended, slowly add two ice cubes through the opening of the blender lid. Keep adding one or two ice cubes at a time until the blender sounds smooth. If your blender is not strong enough to blend ice cubes, omit the ice and substitute just enough ice cold water or apple juice so that the shake will have a milkshake consistency.
10. If the shake / smoothie is too thin, add more fruit or ice. If it’s too thick, add more liquid.
11. As you juice, pulp will collect in a large receptacle. If you don't clean the pulp out right away, it will develop a sour odor and tiny gnats and fruit flies may appear after 8 to 10 hours.
12. It is best to drink freshly made juices within one day.
1. Apple should be juiced raw, preferably green apple.
2. Apple seeds may be juiced together.
3. Peel all apple that are not organically grown because the peel is where most of the chemical residues can be found, while skins of organically grown apples may be left on.
4. Choose fresh ripe apple Bruised, over or under-ripe apple will produce juices that are neither tasty nor healthful.
5. Turn the blender on and push the pieces through the mouth of blender. Make sure that the pieces are smaller than a golf ball so they will blend completely.
6. Add the liquid ingredients next.
7. Fasten the lid and press the start button. Use high speed for about 20 - 30 seconds.
8. Stop the blender and check to see if the ingredients are well blended. Sometimes the frozen apple will jam under the blade. If there is jammed apple, use a spatula to unjam and blend again.
9. Once the mixture is evenly blended, slowly add two ice cubes through the opening of the blender lid. Keep adding one or two ice cubes at a time until the blender sounds smooth. If your blender is not strong enough to blend ice cubes, omit the ice and substitute just enough ice cold water or apple juice so that the shake will have a milkshake consistency.
10. If the shake / smoothie is too thin, add more fruit or ice. If it’s too thick, add more liquid.
11. As you juice, pulp will collect in a large receptacle. If you don't clean the pulp out right away, it will develop a sour odor and tiny gnats and fruit flies may appear after 8 to 10 hours.
12. It is best to drink freshly made juices within one day.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Energy and Water efficiency for Washer
Washers
Energy and Water Efficiency
New washers have options to reduce the amount of water you use in a cycle.
Energy Standards for Washers
If it's been a while since you bought a washer, even regular models will be more efficient than your old one: U.S. Department of Energy standards for all clothes washers made or sold in the United States were raised on January 1, 2007. Look for the yellow and black EnergyGuide label, which will note the product's specifications.
The Modified Energy Factor (MEF) measures washer energy-efficiency. It is determined by dividing tub capacity by the total energy consumption per cycle (washing machine energy, water-heating energy and dryer energy). The higher the MEF, the more efficient the washing machine is. All standard-size top-loading and front-loading washers must have an MEF of 1.26 or greater.
High-Efficiency Washers
Today's energy-efficient washing machines are effective cleaners that cost only a few hundred dollars more than their standard counterparts. If price is the overriding factor in your decision making, consider this: after four or five years, an energy-efficient washer will have paid back the extra money it cost to buy, thanks to lower utility bills. Also, some states offer rebates to consumers who buy energy-efficient or Energy Star washers.
Energy Star
Designed to promote efficient energy usage in homes and businesses, the Energy Star program is a joint effort of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy. To meet Energy Star guidelines, a full-size washer must have an MEF greater than or equal to 1.72.
According to program officials, Energy Star qualified washers use 50 percent less energy than a standard washer and significantly less water: about 18 to 25 gallons per load, instead of approximately 40 gallons. These washing machines also tend to extract more water from the clothing while spinning, reducing necessary dryer time.
Both top-loading and front-loading clothes washers can qualify for ENERGY STAR, although front loaders generally use less energy and water than top-loaders.
In 2007, Energy Star also started measuring water efficiency, ensuring that all washers with its label meet a Water Factor (WF) requirement of 8 or less. The WF is determined by dividing the gallons of water used per cycle by the tub capacity. The lower the WF, the less water the machine uses.
The Energy Star Web site, www.energystar.gov, offers more information about home energy efficiency, including special offers or rebates and a list of Energy Star qualified washers.
Water Conservation
According to the American Water Works Association, clothes washers account for 20.1 percent of water used daily in a typical single-family home with no water-saving fixtures. It amounts to 15.1 gallons daily, second only to toilets, which use 20.1 gallons. A water-saving washer automatically saves energy, because about 90 percent of the energy used to wash clothes goes toward heating the water.
Energy Saving Tips
Whether or not you buy an Energy Star washer, you can save energy by:
Washing full loads
Adjusting the water level setting for small loads
Using cold water (or warm instead of hot) and cold-water detergent whenever possible
Use a high-speed or extended spin cycle to minimize dryer time
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Cheap Furniture shops in Singapore
S&C
Blk 338 AMK Ave 1, #01-1647
TeL 6552 5208
Close at 7-8pm
Not much showpieces but lots of up to date catalogues
Mostly from China
Price normally 20%-50% cheaper than other furniture shop
Blk 338 AMK Ave 1, #01-1647
TeL 6552 5208
Close at 7-8pm
Not much showpieces but lots of up to date catalogues
Mostly from China
Price normally 20%-50% cheaper than other furniture shop
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Stain Removal
Even the most fastidious among us have trouble avoiding the occasional drip of coffee or splash of marinara. Although clothing stains can be very stubborn, they can almost always be removed if dealt with promptly and properly. Andrea Ross, head of the wardrobe department at CBS Television, shares her expertise on stain removal.
When removing stains, use the gentlest techniques and products possible, working up gradually to stronger methods for stains that resist. Although it may be tempting to dunk a garment into a sink of suds or drown a stain in club soda, Andrea advocates a milder approach. She always has a clean, colorfast towel rolled up behind the cloth to absorb the stain. She uses ice-cold water, which is sprayed onto a towel and dabbed onto the material. Dabbing, not rubbing, is key -- you don't want to end up rubbing the stain into the fabric. Often, if a stain is fresh, this step is the only one necessary.
Martha asks Andrea to tackle a classic problem -- coffee spilled on a white shirt. Since the shirt is washable, Andrea's first step is to flush the stain with cold water. If this doesn't do the trick, she rubs the spot with ice; the rolled towel behind the cloth absorbs the stain as the ice coaxes it out of the fabric. If some of the coffee colors remains, Andrea moves on to white vinegar -- a natural, mild bleach. Just a bit, applied with a cotton swab, is all that is usually needed. At this point, the cloth can be laundered as usual, although it is important not to use hot water, as the heat can set the stain if any color remains.
For organic stains, such as grass or blood, Andrea uses a "digestant" -- a detergent containing enzymes that dissolve the proteins in the stain -- applied with a swab or toothbrush. Wisk Away and Shout are examples of digestants. An important note: Never use a digestant on wool or silk; these fibers contain protein and will be permanently damaged by these cleaners.
With older stains of undetermined origin, the first step is to try scraping the spot with a brush or fingernail. If the stain is caked on, this will remove some of the excess. Next, try dabbing the spot with cold water on a clean white towel. This will give you an idea as to whether the stain will come up and will also let you know if the fabric is colorfast. If no dye from the fabric comes off on the towel, it is probably safe to wash with a mild soap. If the stain doesn't budge, or if the garment is not washable or colorfast, your best choice is to go to a professional cleaner.
For a comprehensive guide to stain removal, see our Stain First Aid Chart.
Tips from Martha
How to Remove Stains
There is no single technique or product that takes care of every spot and spill, but with the right information and supplies, many stains can be removed.
If a garment isn't washable, the safest thing is to take it to a dry cleaner, although there are some treatments you can try at home (see Stain First Aid Chart). If you stain a washable garment, the golden rule is: Act quickly. For a liquid, gently blot up any excess with a white cloth, working from the outside in, so you don't spread the stain; do not press hard or rub. Sprinkle an oily stain with cornstarch. If it's a dollop of something, like ketchup, scoop off any excess. Dab the area with cool water, which will lighten most spots and remove others altogether.
Textile and stain experts recommend certain stain removal supplies for each problem. Start small, using cotton swabs and eyedroppers. Often, you'll start with one treatment, then follow up with another, since many stains have more than one component: With lipstick or tomato sauce, for example, you have to treat the oil in the stain, then remove the color. After using a remedy, always wash the garment as you normally would, but look at the area you treated before you dry it; repeat the treatment if necessary, or try another.
Always test stain-removal techniques in a hidden area of the garment, like an inside seam. There are no guarantees -- sometimes stain-removal techniques do more harm than good -- so if you have a particularly vexing stain or a valuable, delicate piece of clothing, take it to a professional. And unfortunately, some things just won't come out. With permanent ink, for example, the operative word is "permanent."
Stain First Aid Chart
Combination Solvents
(Shout, Spray 'n Wash)
All-purpose stain removers, particularly good on greasy stains.
Oil Solvents
(K2r, Afta)
Also called dry-cleaning fluid, these remove oily, greasy stains. Safe on nonwashables. Use only on dry fabric in a well-ventilated area. Air clothes after using.
Digestants
(Biz, Era Plus, Wisk)
Also called enzyme cleaners, these detergents contain enzymes that "eat" protein stains, like grass, blood, and egg yolk. Apply directly to damp fabric, or dilute in water, and then soak clothes. Use cold water when treating blood stains. Wool and silk are proteins, so digestants should never be used on these fibers.
Absorbants
(cornstarch, talcum powder)
Sprinkle on fresh grease stains, wait 10 to 15 minutes, then scrape off. Then you can treat the stain.
Detergents
A mild, clear-liquid dishwashing detergent is an effective all-purpose cleaner. Apply it straight, wait five minutes, then flush or dab with water.
Bleaches
Remove the color left behind by stains with mild bleaches, such as lemon juice, white vinegar (mixed 1:1 with water), 2 percent or 3 percent hydrogen peroxide, or ammonia (2 parts water to 1 part ammonia; do not use on wool or silk). Use a cotton swab to dab the bleach, or place paper towels under the fabric, and use an eyedropper to flush the area with the proper bleach. Chlorine bleach, diluted with water, is a last resort.
Denatured Alcohol
Effective at breaking down some stains and evaporates without leaving a residue.
Mineral Spirits
For greasy stains, like tar. Air clothes after using.
Glycerin
Available at drugstores, it is particularly good for ballpoint ink.
Tips from Martha
The Wash Cycle
Of the many household tasks, doing the laundry seems to be a no-brainer: Put clothes in the washer, add detergent, and press start. But regular washing can take a toll on your garments. Here's how to prevent white shirts from turning gray, sort your bright clothing (hint: you need more than one pile), undo the damage when colors run, and perform many other tricks that will keep your clothes and linens in near-original condition.
How to Keep Whites White
The main reason white items turn gray or become dull is incorrect sorting. People generally have few all-white loads, so they tend to mix whites with colored garments. Unfortunately, some types of fabric, notably cotton, aren't colorfast, so their dye molecules wind up in the wash water and settle on other fabrics, noticeably on white and other light ones. Washing heavily soiled items, such as athletic socks, with lightly soiled ones, such as sheets, can also lead to dinginess. Unless you add enough detergent to hold the dirt in suspension, it will end up back on the very articles you intended to clean. Water quality, too, can affect how your whites emerge from the washer. Iron-laden water and hard water (rich in calcium and magnesium) can render detergents less effective and cause staining.
What to Do
Wash whites separately. The best way to retain whiteness is to launder white items together in the hottest water the fabric will tolerate ;water that is at least 120 degrees Fehrenheit (49 degrees Celcius) is most effective at removing soil. Choose detergent with a bleach alternative and/or enzymes, using the maximum amount recommended.
Add a laundry booster. You can increase the cleaning power of a detergent by adding a booster, such as borax, oxygen bleach, or washing soda to help maintain whiteness. Before washing, soak heavily soiled items using an enzyme detergent (available in the laundry aisle of many supermarkets) or oxygen bleach, and launder them separately.
Pretreat body-oil marks. To remove perspiration and other greasy stains, pretreat with liquid detergent, dishwashing liquid, or shampoo (use colorless ones to avoid dye transfer). Gently rub the liquid into the fabric using a clean toothbrush or complexion brush.
Tackle colored stains. Address food spills, such as coffee or juice, and underarm yellowing, which is residue from antiperspirant or deodorant, by applying undiluted liquid oxygen bleach directly to the fabric immediately before laundering.
Use a color remover. Once a month or when your whites become dull, wash them with a color remover (available in the laundry aisle of many supermarkets). Alternatively, soak items in boiling water and oxygen bleach in a basin (this is suitable only for fabrics that won't shrink). You may have to experiment to determine which technique whitens best.
Accept less than perfect. Even with meticulous sorting, don't expect whites to stay fluorescent bright forever. When white fabrics are manufactured, they are often treated with optical brighteners, which are chemicals that boost whiteness. They will eventually wash out and cannot be replaced.
Minerals and water: If your water has a high iron content (look for reddish stains in the shower and toilet), launder with an iron-removing product (available in the laundry aisle of many supermarkets). Don't use chlorine bleach: Combined with iron and hot water, it can yellow clothing. Instead, use oxygen bleach, which is a more effective (and more environmentally friendly) alternative. For hard water (evidenced by rough, hard-to-clean deposits on bathroom fixtures), some detergent labels call for using larger amounts. If your water is particularly hard, you may not be able to get whites pristine unless you install a water softener, which removes minerals.
How to Keep Darks Dark
During the wash cycle, articles of clothing collide with one another and the washer's interior, which causes some of the fibers in the fabric to break, exposing the raw fiber ends. This friction disrupts the surface of the fabric, tricking the eye into seeing less color. Tumble drying can cause similar damage, though to a lesser extent. Also, washing darks in warm or hot water can hasten dye loss. With some fabrics, expect a certain amount of fading; theres no such thing, for instance, as truly colorfast cotton.
What to Do
Wash darks separately. To help preserve dark items' original colors and prevent bleeding onto lighter clothes, wash darks together using the cold-water cycle (60-80 degrees Fehrenheit / 16-27 degrees Celcius).
Use the shortest cycle. Select the appropriate setting depending on how soiled the clothes are and what fabric they're made of. As far as detergents go, experts say that they don't really contribute to fading. While some formulas are designed specifically for darks, any liquid detergent without a bleach alternative is suitable (liquids work better in cold water; powders may not dissolve fully).
Minimize abrasion. Prepare your clothes for the washer by closing zippers, fastening hooks, and turning items inside out. Also, wash items of similar weight together -- that is, don't wash a cashmere sweater and jeans in the same load just because they're dark blue.
Line-dry darks. Whenever possible, hang dark items to dry (out of direct sunlight); this helps maintain their original appearance. When you do use the dryer, opt for the lowest temperature suitable for the material, and be careful not to overdry your clothes. Remove them from the machine as soon as they're dry or even while they're slightly damp; this will help keep shrinkage to a minimum.
Washing in winter: Although cold water helps prevent dark clothing from fading, frigid outdoor temperatures may cause the washer's water temperature to fall below 40 degrees, rendering even detergents designed to work in cold water ineffective. If you live in an area with particularly chilly winters, don't use the cold-water wash setting during that time of year. Instead, select a warm-water wash and a cold rinse.
How to Keep Brights Bright
As with darks, wear and tear in the washer and dryer as well as warm and hot water can cause colors to fade. Deep, bright garments often shed a little dye over time, so some color loss is inevitable.
Separate by color intensity. Launder colored items in two groups: brights and pastels. Wash brand-new brights on their own for the first few cycles, when they're most likely to bleed significant amounts of dye.
Turn items inside out. Keep brights looking good longer by reversing them before washing. Choose the shortest cycle appropriate for the soil level and fabric.
When colors run: Forget soaking your bright fabrics in salt or vinegar to forestall bleeding; it won't help. If brights do bleed onto other clothing in the wash, don't put the stained items in the dryer. The heat will set the dye, making any discoloration permanent. Instead, launder the clothes again separately. As long as you don't apply heat, the dye should come out, even if you don't rewash the items immediately.
Tips from Martha
Laundry's Tips
Tips on Laundry
Separate and Presoak Laundry
Follow the washing instructions that appear on the label of each garment. Separate laundry into batches, such as dark fabrics, shirts, towels, underwear, and rags. Launder clothing in the shape in which they are to be worn: zipped, velcroed, and buttoned up, with pockets empied and cuffs unrolled. Always presoak heavily soiled items and dinner napkins in an enzyme detergent either in the washer or in a basin; wash the following day. First, launder your batch of white fabrics. Wash white towels on the hottest setting with no bleach.
Detergents
There is a wide variety of laundry detergents from which to choose. Powdered detergents work best for hard water and for removing mud and clay. Liquid detergents are good for taking out grease, oily dirt, and stains, and work very well as a pretreatment. A good tip to follow is to buy laundry detergent in bulk and pour it into smaller bottles or airtight containers. Also, always wear household gloves and old clothes when you hand-wash items in bleach.
Color-fast Test
Martha suggests always checking for colorfastness on dark clothing before washing. To do a colorfast test, dampen fabric in a discreet spot and blot with a white cloth to see if any color appears. If color does appear, wash the item separately until it becomes colorfast.
Removing Oil Stains
Use cornstarch to help absorb oil stains. Sprinkle the stain with cornstarch, wait 10 to 15 minutes and scrape off.
Easier Ironing and Drying
For easier ironing, remove items from dryer while still damp. This will help prevent wrinkles from setting in. Clean the lint drawer before drying each load of laundry.
Washing Pillows
Most pillows should be washed every 3 to 6 months. Check tags to make sure the pillows are not "dry clean only" Wash them in the gentle cycle with warm water and mild detergent. Be sure to check the tag to see if you can dry the pillows in the dryer. When drying pillows, add tennis balls in a sock to the dryer, which will help break up clumps of filling. This tip also works well for down jackets and comforters.
Tips from Martha
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Bamboo Fabric
Just discovered Bamboo Fabric and found the following info from WiseGeek. Might consider it for my new bedsheet set ;)
Bamboo clothing is being heralded as the newest eco-fabric and at a recent trade show I was excited to finally see and feel this new cloth. It is beautiful, I was struck by how shiny it was, it's appearance and feel is closer to that of satin than it's eco-competitor organic cotton. It was also really light, a cloth nappy seemed to loose all it's bulkiness when made from bamboo. The lady at the stand told me that because of it's natural deodorising properties you could wear the socks for a week without washing them... although I'm not quite sure if I'm ready to test that yet!
The advantages of bamboo seem endless, it's naturally antibacterial and anti-fungal, it's durable, it grows quickly without the use of pesticides and it is completely sustainable. It would seem to be a miracle fabric, but as with all things there is a disadvantage. I had noticed that although bamboo is grown organically that none of the garments seemed to be labeled organic.
Looking into this further I discovered that hazardous chemicals such as sodium hydroxide and carbon disulfide are used during the processing of the plant. These chemicals are extremely toxic and can cause severe health problems to the people working with them. For example carbon disulfide is known to:
Even with all these health effects bamboo is still more environmentally friendly than many other materials. For example non organic cotton uses approximately 150g of pesticide per pound of raw cotton - enough to produce just one T shirt.
"Bamboo fabric is a natural textile made from the pulp of the bamboo grass. Bamboo fabric has been growing in popularity because it has many unique properties and is more sustainable than most textile fibers. Bamboo fabric is light and strong, has excellent wicking properties, and is to some extent antibacterial. The use of bamboo fiber for clothing was a 20th century development, pioneered by several Chinese corporations.
Bamboo fiber resembles cotton in its unspun form, a puffball of light, airy fibers. Many companies use extensive bleaching processes to turn bamboo fiber white, although companies producing organic bamboo fabric leave the bamboo fiber unbleached. To make bamboo fiber, bamboo is heavily pulped until it separates into thin component threads of fiber, which can be spun and dyed for weaving into cloth.
Bamboo fabric is very soft and can be worn directly next to the skin. Many people who experience allergic reactions to other natural fibers, such as wool or hemp, do not complain of this issue with bamboo. The fiber is naturally smooth and round without chemical treatment, meaning that there are no sharp spurs to irritate the skin.
Bamboo fabric is favored by companies trying to use sustainable textiles, because the bamboo plant is very quick growing and does not usually require the use of pesticides and herbicides to thrive. As a result, plantations can easily be kept organic and replanted yearly to replenish stocks. The process of making unbleached bamboo fiber is very light on chemicals that could potentially harm the environment.
In textile form, bamboo retains many of the properties it has as a plant. Bamboo is highly water absorbent, able to take up three times its weight in water. In bamboo fabric, this translates to an excellent wicking ability that will pull moisture away from the skin so that it can evaporate. For this reason, clothing made of bamboo fiber is often worn next to the skin.
Bamboo also has many antibacterial qualities, which bamboo fabric is apparently able to retain, even through multiple washings. This helps to reduce bacteria that thrive on clothing and cause unpleasant odors. It can also kill odor causing bacteria that live on human skin, making the wearer and his or her clothing smell more sweet. In addition, bamboo fabric has insulating properties and will keep the wearer cooler in summer and warmer in winter. The versatility of bamboo fabric makes it an excellent choice for clothing designers exploring alternative textiles, and in addition, the fabric is able to take bright dye colors well, drape smoothly, and star in a variety of roles from knit shirts to woven skirts. "
But Beware! Everything have it's Pros and Cons. Read the following which I had copied from Organic Yum-Yum.
" Fashion has taken a seriously green turn this year, with London Fashion Week kicking off the trend back in February and in April we in Ireland hosted our first ever Ethical Fashion Week.
The advantages of bamboo seem endless, it's naturally antibacterial and anti-fungal, it's durable, it grows quickly without the use of pesticides and it is completely sustainable. It would seem to be a miracle fabric, but as with all things there is a disadvantage. I had noticed that although bamboo is grown organically that none of the garments seemed to be labeled organic.
Looking into this further I discovered that hazardous chemicals such as sodium hydroxide and carbon disulfide are used during the processing of the plant. These chemicals are extremely toxic and can cause severe health problems to the people working with them. For example carbon disulfide is known to:
and sodium hydroxide when inhaled can cause:
Even with all these health effects bamboo is still more environmentally friendly than many other materials. For example non organic cotton uses approximately 150g of pesticide per pound of raw cotton - enough to produce just one T shirt.
The good news is that there is an eco-friendly and organic way of producing bamboo cloth which allows natural the natural enzymes in the plant to break down the pulp. Although it is eco-friendly it is very labour intensive and as a result costly. New technologies are also being developed to help make the mass processing methods greener."
More info here :
http://bestecostuff.com/blog/is-bamboo-fabric-green
http://www.buzzillions.com/dz_471546_bamboo_sheet_set_reviews
More info here :
http://bestecostuff.com/blog/is-bamboo-fabric-green
http://www.buzzillions.com/dz_471546_bamboo_sheet_set_reviews
Jean Perry Bedsheet Set defects at Takashimaya
DO NOT BUY any of JEAN PERRY Bedsheet Set at Takashimaya!
I just had a very bad experience there. Bought a high quality (Royal Premium, 500 Thread Count) bedsheet set at Takashimaya and at the time of purchase, I had enquired whether I can do exchange if any thread loose is found. The answer from the salesperson was a definite yes!
As to my dismay, I found more than 5 separate areas when the threads were either loose or not sewn properly.
Of course I send back to Taka for exchange. After a few days waitingf I finally got a new set, I checked the new bedsheet on the spot. Still I find some defects and feedback to see whether I can have another new one as this one is not acceptable to me.
By this time, the promoter got annoyed and doesn't allow for more exchange and then just wanted to refund me. I was reluctant to get a refund as I need a new bedsheet set urgently. She had told me that it is normal to find these kind of defects in her products.
Then I am willing to lower down my expectations and may be willing to accept the defective goods provided she allows me to check further through the rest of the bedsheet set, just in case there are really very severe defects that may cause the product unusable. Straightaway, she cut me short by not allowing me to check further and just wanted to refund me.
To cut long story short, I was very dissappointed with Jean Perry's promoter's attitude as first, the product quality is very bad, and secondly, the customer service is even worse. To think that I had even paid more than $150 for this whole shit!
I am wondering whether is the Jean Perry product quality is poor in general to start with? Definitely, I will shun Jean Perry in future bedlinen purchase !
I just had a very bad experience there. Bought a high quality (Royal Premium, 500 Thread Count) bedsheet set at Takashimaya and at the time of purchase, I had enquired whether I can do exchange if any thread loose is found. The answer from the salesperson was a definite yes!
As to my dismay, I found more than 5 separate areas when the threads were either loose or not sewn properly.
Of course I send back to Taka for exchange. After a few days waitingf I finally got a new set, I checked the new bedsheet on the spot. Still I find some defects and feedback to see whether I can have another new one as this one is not acceptable to me.
By this time, the promoter got annoyed and doesn't allow for more exchange and then just wanted to refund me. I was reluctant to get a refund as I need a new bedsheet set urgently. She had told me that it is normal to find these kind of defects in her products.
Then I am willing to lower down my expectations and may be willing to accept the defective goods provided she allows me to check further through the rest of the bedsheet set, just in case there are really very severe defects that may cause the product unusable. Straightaway, she cut me short by not allowing me to check further and just wanted to refund me.
To cut long story short, I was very dissappointed with Jean Perry's promoter's attitude as first, the product quality is very bad, and secondly, the customer service is even worse. To think that I had even paid more than $150 for this whole shit!
I am wondering whether is the Jean Perry product quality is poor in general to start with? Definitely, I will shun Jean Perry in future bedlinen purchase !
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
All about Contractors & Interior Designers
Dunno how to look for and choose a good contractor / Interior Designer?
Get yourself equipped first with knowledge before you start looking for one. This will save you lots of regrets later ;)
Fridge : Mitshubishi MR-V45U
Finally bought a fridge!
The Brand is Mitsubishi and the Model is MR-V45U.
How I decided on this model? First of all as I have just started a family, I think I will start with something medium size. So 3 doors fridge me perfectly.
When I go scouting at various big electrical stores : ie. Harvey Norman, Best Denki, Courts, I saw that there is this model MR-V45T very popular and most of the time either out of stock or display sold. So I ran some searches on the net and found the following conclusion:
1. Mitsubishi fridge is a very trustable reliable brand
2. MR-V45T is popular but have only 2 ticks (energy saving mark)
3. MR-V45U is the new model replacing MR-V45T but have 3 ticks (better energy saving than the T series)
4. Currently there is promotion of $50 Robinson vouchers from the agent.
5. Have the color that fits into my kitchen design theme.
So voila! That's how I decided on this fridge :)
The Brand is Mitsubishi and the Model is MR-V45U.
How I decided on this model? First of all as I have just started a family, I think I will start with something medium size. So 3 doors fridge me perfectly.
When I go scouting at various big electrical stores : ie. Harvey Norman, Best Denki, Courts, I saw that there is this model MR-V45T very popular and most of the time either out of stock or display sold. So I ran some searches on the net and found the following conclusion:
1. Mitsubishi fridge is a very trustable reliable brand
2. MR-V45T is popular but have only 2 ticks (energy saving mark)
3. MR-V45U is the new model replacing MR-V45T but have 3 ticks (better energy saving than the T series)
4. Currently there is promotion of $50 Robinson vouchers from the agent.
5. Have the color that fits into my kitchen design theme.
So voila! That's how I decided on this fridge :)
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Monday, January 5, 2009
All about Cotton
FIBERS
Here is a detailed description on types of fibers commonly used in making bedsheet sets.
Here is a detailed description on types of fibers commonly used in making bedsheet sets.
CARE
All our sheets and towels are machine washable. As they are natural fibers, though, they can shrink or be damaged if improperly taken care of. The rule of thumb is to wash on cool, dry on low.
Wrinkling/Ironing
Our sheets also iron well, if you are concerned about wrinkling. But we realize that the larger sheets are unwieldy and inconvenient to iron constantly. In Italy, the Italians mostly line-dry to take care of that problem. If this is impossible, the next best thing to do is to fold once and hang your sheets over the shower curtain rod. The weight of the water in the fabric after washing will pull out most wrinkles. Another thing you can do is iron directly on the bed. We do recommend that you iron your sheets occasionally to keep them in top form.
Fabric Softeners and Drier Sheets
Fabric softeners and drier sheets do affect towel absorbency power, so avoid them when washing towels or robes.
Other topics/Bleach...
Bleach is not recommended, but very mild bleach can be used.
How to choose Iron
Five items to consider before buying an iron.
1. Heat
The ideal iron should have adjustable settings for delicate to cotton fabrics, an auto-off to turn the iron off after a pre-set time and an option for steam or heat only with no steam.
Sponsored Links
2. Steam
Steam is the best wrinkle remover. Look for an iron with a burst of steam feature to help with tough wrinkles, a spray nozzle to pre-moisten fabrics and a clear gauge on the water tank for ease in filling. A self-cleaning feature uses a burst of steam to clear clogs in the soleplate of the iron and will save those iron-colored droplets appearing on your white shirt.3. Surface
Non-stick soleplates are most often the same non-stick surface as cookware and are the easiest to clean. Stainless steel or aluminum also transfer heat well but may need to be scrubbed to remove built-up starch or sizing.4. Cords
The easiest iron to use is a cordless rechargeable iron. But if you're purchasing one with a cord look for an extra long cord and a reversible or pivoting cord allowing left- and right-handers to use it comfortably - no excuses!5. Weight
Depending on where you like to pump iron - the gym or the laundry - irons can weigh between one and a half to three pounds. A heavier iron will cover a greater pressing area but a light-weight iron may work best for light or infrequent sessions.How to avoid Ironing Mistakes
Ironing clothes can be a tricky job. With so many fabric types, pleats, tucks, seams, etc. getting the wrinkles out can give even the best housekeeper a headache. Find out the top 7 ironing mistakes we make and how to avoid them. Some of them begin before we ever turn on our iron.
1. Letting clothes over-dry.
Clothes are very difficult to iron when they are fully dry or over dried in the dryer. Over-dried clothes can be very difficult to reshape. Try to remove clothes when they are still slightly damp. If you line dry your clothes, bring them inside to iron when they are not quite dry.
2. Overfilling the dryer.
It would seem like stuffing as many clothes as can fit into a dryer would save us time, but more than likely it will only lengthen the time you spend caring for your clothing. An average dryer should be only 1/2 full in order to allow freedom for all clothing to move. If too many articles of clothing are in the dryer, it will create monster wrinkles, and make your ironing much more difficult.
3. Forgetting to shake and smoothe.
When clothing is removed from the dryer, it frequently sits in a basket waiting to be ironed. Take a few minutes and shake out your clothing. Reshape garments, and smooth out seams and pleats. Even if clothing still needs to be ironed, it will be a much smoother process.
4. Not using the sprayer.
Many irons today come with a built in sprayer to dampen clothes during ironing. If yours doesn't have one, purchase a new inexpensive empty spray bottle to use. Dampen the clothing when you are ready to begin ironing. Wrinkles will fall out of the clothing as you iron. If you don't use the sprayer to soften up the clothing, ironing is much more difficult and for some garments, impossible.
5. Using Hard Water.
Tap water may be okay to use in your iron, depending on what type of water you have. People with hard water risk damaging their iron. Read the instructions for your iron, and if in doubt, use distilled water in your iron.
6. Improper use of starches and sizers.
Starches and sizers are a great tool when ironing, but they must be used properly. Spray these products as you iron, but allow them to actually penetrate into the garment before ironing over them. Allowing just a few seconds for the clothing to soak up the starch or sizer, will keep your iron's soleplate from becoming built-up with product residue.
7. Ironing heavyweight fabrics first.
If you have a large pile of ironing to do, try to iron your lightest silk, synthetic, and delicate fabrics first. These need to be ironed on low temperatures. Once the iron heats up, and you've ironed your lightweights, you can move on to the wools, cottens, linens, etc.
http://housekeeping.about.com/od/surfacefabric/a/ironmistakes.htm
How to select ironing board cover
Any cover should be smooth and permeable to heat and steam. Teflon-coated cotton covers will not stick to your clothes and make it easy to clean away any build-up of starch or sizing. The best pad is one made of felt. It will hold its shape better than a foam pad.
How to choose laundry detergent
Many people are as loyal to their laundry detergent as they are to their favorite cola. Some just buy what their mother used and others buy what’s on sale. With so many choices on the market, you’re sure to find one that you like and cleans your laundry.
Liquid or Powdered?
General purpose detergents are available in liquid or powdered form. Both clean clothes well. However, liquid detergents are very effecting on greasy, oily stains and can be easily used as a pretreater. Powdered detergents are usually less expensive to use per load. They are effective on clay and ground-in dirt. Take a look at your family’s needs and that will help you make a decision.
Liquids and powders can both be used in cold water; however, some powdered detergents do not dissolve well in lower temperatures. If this is a problem, use a higher wash temperature or dissolve the powder in a cup of hot water before adding it to the wash. Both types are available in concentrated or ultra forms. Be sure to read the labels to ensure that you are using the correct amount.
Combination products
A combination detergent does two jobs. Examples include a detergent plus fabric softener or color-safe bleach or bleach alternative. Some of these features enhance a detergent’s performance. The best way to determine if you can see a difference is to give them a try and decide for yourself if the extra expense makes your laundry look better. {h3]Specialty Detergents
Detergents that are designed for hand washing or machine washing delicate items are less harsh than regular detergents. Made for light soil and delicate fabrics, they are a good choice in the right situation.
For baby’s laundry and those sensitive to fragrances and dyes, chose a detergent that is free from those ingredients. Scented detergents smell great but may compete with your cologne or perfume – Apple Mango and Chanel No. 5 don’t always go together!http://laundry.about.com/od/laundrybasics/a/choosedetergent.htm
Cotton & Linen Care
Cotton
Cotton fibers can be weakened by chlorine bleach. Undiluted bleach should never be applied directly to the fibers. Dilute solutions can be used safely on cotton or cellulosic fibers for stain removal and whitening. However, even dilute solutions will weaken fibers causing them to rip and wear out if used too often.
Extremely high temperatures when ironing can scorch cellulosic fibers. The scorching or yellowing occurs as the fibers begin to burn. Burned fibers cannot be revived.
Linen
Linen fibers can be weakened by chlorine bleach. Undiluted bleach should never be applied directly to the fibers. Dilute solutions can be used safely on linen or cellulosic fibers for stain removal and whitening. However, even dilute solutions will weaken fibers causing them to rip and wear out if used too often.
Extremely high temperatures when ironing can scorch cellulosic fibers. The scorching or yellowing occurs as the fibers begin to burn. Burned fibers cannot be revived.
Basics of Laundry
Learn to sort laundry by color and fabric; choose detergent and water temperature; pre-treating stains and drying methods.
Tips for Ironing Fine Linen
Linens enhance and contribute to your table and keeping them looking crisp is easy if you follow these guidelines.
Use a clean iron
Before you begin, make sure that the soleplate of your iron is clean. If you’re using a steam iron, test it on an old cloth to be sure that there are no mineral deposits being left by the iron. Those droplets will cause brown staining.
Sponsored Links
Safe for cloth diapersChemical free dryer sheet system. Gentle on baby's skin and diapers.www.staticeliminator.ca
Ironing Machine Tubie®Shirt, Trousers, T-Shirt or Blouse: No other ironing doll can do more.www.ironing-machines-tubie.com
Peal starchInstant laundry starch Save time and money add to washerwww.pealstarch.com
Use a well-padded ironing board
Use a well-padded ironing board with a smooth heat-reflective cover.
Start with damp linens
The linens should be damp for easier ironing. You’ll press them until they are smooth but not completely dry and allow them to finish drying in the air.
Starch or Sizing?
If you like to fold napkins into fancy shapes, you’ll need to use starch and a hot setting on your iron to get the crispness you need. For a softer look, use spray-on sizing and iron on a medium setting.
Light or dark colors?
For light-colored linens, iron on the wrong side first, then on the right side to bring out the sheen. On dark-colored articles, iron on the wrong side only.
Prevent mildew staining
Do not fold up just ironed linens - they should be kept spread out for some time to dry.
Prevent more wrinkles as you iron
Place your ironing board near a table when ironing large items such as tablecloths. Roll finished sections of the cloth over the table rather than letting it pile up under the ironing board.
Use a clean iron
Before you begin, make sure that the soleplate of your iron is clean. If you’re using a steam iron, test it on an old cloth to be sure that there are no mineral deposits being left by the iron. Those droplets will cause brown staining.
Sponsored Links
Safe for cloth diapersChemical free dryer sheet system. Gentle on baby's skin and diapers.www.staticeliminator.ca
Ironing Machine Tubie®Shirt, Trousers, T-Shirt or Blouse: No other ironing doll can do more.www.ironing-machines-tubie.com
Peal starchInstant laundry starch Save time and money add to washerwww.pealstarch.com
Use a well-padded ironing board
Use a well-padded ironing board with a smooth heat-reflective cover.
Start with damp linens
The linens should be damp for easier ironing. You’ll press them until they are smooth but not completely dry and allow them to finish drying in the air.
Starch or Sizing?
If you like to fold napkins into fancy shapes, you’ll need to use starch and a hot setting on your iron to get the crispness you need. For a softer look, use spray-on sizing and iron on a medium setting.
Light or dark colors?
For light-colored linens, iron on the wrong side first, then on the right side to bring out the sheen. On dark-colored articles, iron on the wrong side only.
Prevent mildew staining
Do not fold up just ironed linens - they should be kept spread out for some time to dry.
Prevent more wrinkles as you iron
Place your ironing board near a table when ironing large items such as tablecloths. Roll finished sections of the cloth over the table rather than letting it pile up under the ironing board.
Bedsheet 101
Wash
When in doubt, follow the washing directions on the sheet's label. For most sheets, wash in cool or lukewarm water using half of the recommended detergent. If possible, avoid using bleach as it breaks down obers or use non-chlorine bleach every other washing. Be careful not to over load as sheets will not wash properly. When drying, try to remove sheets when dry and fold immediately to avoid wrinkles. If they have already cooled in the dryer and wrinkles have set in, tumble another 5-10 minutes with a damp towel or washcloth.
Wear
Change bed linens once a week and pillowcases twice a week or more. Have three sets of sheets per bed: one for use on the bed, one in the laundry, and one in storage. Rotate all three sets so they wear evenly.
Tips
# Store sheet sets inside a pillowcase of the respective sheets to keep sets together.
# Buy extra bottom sheets for sheet patterns you love-bottom sheets wear out fastest.
# If you have time, iron pillowcases for a fresh, crisp look.
# Use a mattress pad between the mattress and sheets. Wash pad every three months.
(sources: www.about.com, www.apparelsearch.com, www.ezinearticles.com, www.calcot.com)
For more great linens, check out these Web sites:
www.threadcountzzz.com; www.thecompanystore.com; www.potterybarn.com; www.garnethill.com; www.frette.com; www.llbean.com; www.anthropologie.com; www.abundantearth.com; www.lavenderoelds.com; www.laylagrayce.com; www.dwellshop.com; www.designpublic.com; www.variegatedinc.com
When in doubt, follow the washing directions on the sheet's label. For most sheets, wash in cool or lukewarm water using half of the recommended detergent. If possible, avoid using bleach as it breaks down obers or use non-chlorine bleach every other washing. Be careful not to over load as sheets will not wash properly. When drying, try to remove sheets when dry and fold immediately to avoid wrinkles. If they have already cooled in the dryer and wrinkles have set in, tumble another 5-10 minutes with a damp towel or washcloth.
Wear
Change bed linens once a week and pillowcases twice a week or more. Have three sets of sheets per bed: one for use on the bed, one in the laundry, and one in storage. Rotate all three sets so they wear evenly.
Tips
# Store sheet sets inside a pillowcase of the respective sheets to keep sets together.
# Buy extra bottom sheets for sheet patterns you love-bottom sheets wear out fastest.
# If you have time, iron pillowcases for a fresh, crisp look.
# Use a mattress pad between the mattress and sheets. Wash pad every three months.
(sources: www.about.com, www.apparelsearch.com, www.ezinearticles.com, www.calcot.com)
For more great linens, check out these Web sites:
www.threadcountzzz.com; www.thecompanystore.com; www.potterybarn.com; www.garnethill.com; www.frette.com; www.llbean.com; www.anthropologie.com; www.abundantearth.com; www.lavenderoelds.com; www.laylagrayce.com; www.dwellshop.com; www.designpublic.com; www.variegatedinc.com
What is Cotton Sateen ?
Those who like soft, smooth sheets on their beds probably love sateen sheets. Sateen is a cotton fabric with a luster resembling that of satin. It is used for sheets and apparel.
Sateen starts with long-fiber, combed or carded cotton. The cotton is then mercerized to bring out a sheen. Mercerization involves soaking the fiber in a bath of sodium hydroxide (i.e., lye) and then in an acid bath. The result makes the cotton fiber stronger and more easily dyed. It also adds a luster to the fibers.
This mercerized luster is one of the hallmarks of good sateen. Sateen should be very soft to the touch, with a high thread count, and should drape well. Sateen fabric uses the satin stitch in construction, which means the threads are mostly on one side of the fabric, giving that smooth look.
One other type of sateen is lining sateen. Sateen used for lining jackets or wraps is usually a heavy, luxurious, yet sturdy fabric. This kind of sateen may be made from silk, wool, nylon, polyester, or any other fabric that would produce the type of lustrous fabric required.
Sateen has been a popular fabric since the early 1900s. Being made of cotton, it is much cheaper than silk satin, and is also more durable, as well as being machine washable. In the early 20th century, sateen was often used for women's undergarments because of its durability and smooth feel.
Sateen sheets have become popular as people want more luxurious fabrics in their homes and have found that sheets with a higher thread count are more durable. They are more expensive, however, and a set of 400 thread-count sateen sheets for a queen size bed can run anywhere from $80 US Dollars (USD) to well over $100 USD.
Shoppers who like crisp, ironed sheets should probably look for percale in stores. Percale sheets are more like a traditional cotton fabric and some prefer their crisper feel. They are also less expensive than sateen, in general.
Sateen is a useful, durable fabric that will probably continue to be popular in the textile industry.
Sateen starts with long-fiber, combed or carded cotton. The cotton is then mercerized to bring out a sheen. Mercerization involves soaking the fiber in a bath of sodium hydroxide (i.e., lye) and then in an acid bath. The result makes the cotton fiber stronger and more easily dyed. It also adds a luster to the fibers.
This mercerized luster is one of the hallmarks of good sateen. Sateen should be very soft to the touch, with a high thread count, and should drape well. Sateen fabric uses the satin stitch in construction, which means the threads are mostly on one side of the fabric, giving that smooth look.
One other type of sateen is lining sateen. Sateen used for lining jackets or wraps is usually a heavy, luxurious, yet sturdy fabric. This kind of sateen may be made from silk, wool, nylon, polyester, or any other fabric that would produce the type of lustrous fabric required.
Sateen has been a popular fabric since the early 1900s. Being made of cotton, it is much cheaper than silk satin, and is also more durable, as well as being machine washable. In the early 20th century, sateen was often used for women's undergarments because of its durability and smooth feel.
Sateen sheets have become popular as people want more luxurious fabrics in their homes and have found that sheets with a higher thread count are more durable. They are more expensive, however, and a set of 400 thread-count sateen sheets for a queen size bed can run anywhere from $80 US Dollars (USD) to well over $100 USD.
Shoppers who like crisp, ironed sheets should probably look for percale in stores. Percale sheets are more like a traditional cotton fabric and some prefer their crisper feel. They are also less expensive than sateen, in general.
Sateen is a useful, durable fabric that will probably continue to be popular in the textile industry.
How to wash Egyptian Cotton Bed Linen
Washing Egyptian Cotton Bed Sheets & Towels
Egyptian cotton is considered to be one of the finer types of cotton, as it refers to a long staple fine cotton usually grown in northern Africa. Due to the long staple fiber of Egyptian cotton, bedding made of this fabric is durable as well as silky smooth. Long staple cotton is less likely to become rough, pill and exhibit surface balling, all which detract from the longevity of a fabric. Hand picked long staple Egyptian cotton is even more durable as hand picking, rather than mechanical picking, leaves cotton fibers straight, long and intact.
Egyptian Cotton linens become softer and more luxurious with washing. You may find that your bed linens are more likely to wrinkle, until they have been washed a few times.
Washing your bed linens
Always wash your Egyptian cotton sheets in a separate load than your regular laundry, as zippers, hooks and buttons have a tendency to damage cotton linens. Bed Linen should be washed in warm water (no higher than 40C), using a gentle detergent followed by a cold rinse. Quality, pH balanced detergents, such as Tide, are recommended when laundering fine cotton linens. Chlorinated bleach is not recommended as it will damage quality cotton bedding fibers over time. If necessary, non-chlorinated bleach can be used with white and ivory cotton linens. Removing cotton sheets promptly after washing will reduce wrinkling.
Unlike man made fibers, cotton will benefit from line-drying, leaving them almost wrinkle free and smelling fresh. If you wish you may also tumble dry on a low heat. Use the cool down cycle at the end to reduce wrinkles. Shaking your linen before putting it into the tumble dryer will also help reduce creasing. Remove sheets while they are still slightly damp and hang to finish drying.
After remaking your bed, smooth your cotton sheets by hand to minimize wrinkles. Ironing is a matter of choice but not usually necessary for cotton sheets. However, some people prefer to iron their cotton sheets for a crisper appearance.
A little known, but very important fact, is that Egyptian cotton is the best type of cotton fabric for allergy sufferers. This is due to the fact that good Egyptian cotton is hand-picked from organically-grown harvests.
Removing cotton sheets promptly after washing will reduce wrinkling. Shaking linens out prior to placing them in the dryer will reduce wrinkling as well. When machine drying, use a warm temperature setting, remove sheets while they are still slightly damp and hang to finish drying. After remaking your bed, smooth your cotton sheets by hand to minimize wrinkles. Ironing is a matter of choice but not usually necessary for cotton sheets. However, some people prefer to iron their cotton sheets for a crisper appearance.
Washing bath towels
We would recommend washing your towels before use. This helps to “break them in”, which makes them softer and more absorbent. Several washings are needed before 100% Egyptian cotton towels are at their maximum absorbency and softness.
Launder towels in warm water (no higher than 40C) and a gentle detergent. You should note that the use of fabric softeners will impair the absorbency of the towel.
A natural fiber such as cotton will benefit from line drying, leaving them smelling fresh and wrinkle free. If you wish you may also tumble dry on a low heat. Use the cool down cycle at the end to reduce wrinkles. Shaking your linen before putting it into the tumble dryer will also help reduce creasing. Remove from the tumble dryer promptly after cycle.
Washing Cotton Bed Sheets: Percale Sheets, Cotton Sateen Sheets and Egyptian Cotton Sheets
Cotton percale refers to a closely woven, high thread count combed cotton fabric. Thread count refers to the number of horizontal and vertical threads used to create one square inch of fabric. Most people think percale refers to the fabric content, however, it really refers to the weave of the fabric. Cotton percale sheets typically have a thread count of 180 or more and can be easily home laundered. Cotton Percale is known to wash well and last for many years.
Cotton sateen is generally made from combed thread, but uses a finer thread than cotton percale. It is woven differently and generally has a higher thread count than percale as finer threads are used. Cotton sateen sheets have a tendency to lose their sheen after the first washing, due to the type of construction of a sateen weave. However, ironing cotton sateen sheets after washing will immediately smooth the fibers and restore the luster and silkiness of the fabric.
Egyptian cotton is considered to be one of the finer types of cotton, as it refers to a long staple fine cotton usually grown in northern Africa. Due to the long staple fiber of Egyptian cotton, bedding made of this fabric is durable as well as silky smooth. Long staple cotton is less likely to become rough, pill and exhibit surface balling, all which detract from the longevity of a fabric. Hand picked long staple Egyptian cotton is even more durable as hand picking, rather than mechanical picking, leaves cotton fibers straight, long and intact.
Egyptian cotton that has undergone a mercerization process is the most durable type of Egyptian cotton. Mercerization is a process whereby a cotton yarn or fabric is passed through a controlled heat atmosphere (termed singeing) and then treated with a solution of Caustic Soda (sodium hydroxide). This process burns any fuzz off of the cotton yarn and ultimately results in cotton that has a higher luster and dye affinity. Subsequently, repeated washing is less likely to lead to fading, in color or luster, of your mercerized Egyptian cotton sheets. A little known, but very important fact, is that Egyptian cotton is the best type of cotton fabric for allergy sufferers. This is due to the fact that good Egyptian cotton is hand-picked from organically-grown harvests.
Always wash your cotton percale sheets, cotton sateen sheets and Egyptian cotton sheets in a separate load than your regular laundry, as zippers, hooks and buttons have a tendency to damage cotton linens. Take care to always use a gentle wash cycle with a cold temperature setting, and a mild detergent. Quality, pH balanced detergents, such as Tide, are recommended when laundering fine cotton linens. Chlorinated bleach is not recommended as it will damage quality cotton bedding fibers over time. If necessary, non-chlorinated bleach can be used with white and ivory cotton linens.
Removing cotton sheets promptly after washing will reduce wrinkling. Shaking linens out prior to placing them in the dryer will reduce wrinkling as well. When machine drying, use a warm temperature setting, remove sheets while they are still slightly damp and hang to finish drying. After remaking your bed, smooth your cotton sheets by hand to minimize wrinkles. Ironing is a matter of choice but not usually necessary for cotton sheets. However, some people prefer to iron their cotton sheets for a crisper appearance.
Egyptian cotton is considered to be one of the finer types of cotton, as it refers to a long staple fine cotton usually grown in northern Africa. Due to the long staple fiber of Egyptian cotton, bedding made of this fabric is durable as well as silky smooth. Long staple cotton is less likely to become rough, pill and exhibit surface balling, all which detract from the longevity of a fabric. Hand picked long staple Egyptian cotton is even more durable as hand picking, rather than mechanical picking, leaves cotton fibers straight, long and intact.
Egyptian Cotton linens become softer and more luxurious with washing. You may find that your bed linens are more likely to wrinkle, until they have been washed a few times.
Washing your bed linens
Always wash your Egyptian cotton sheets in a separate load than your regular laundry, as zippers, hooks and buttons have a tendency to damage cotton linens. Bed Linen should be washed in warm water (no higher than 40C), using a gentle detergent followed by a cold rinse. Quality, pH balanced detergents, such as Tide, are recommended when laundering fine cotton linens. Chlorinated bleach is not recommended as it will damage quality cotton bedding fibers over time. If necessary, non-chlorinated bleach can be used with white and ivory cotton linens. Removing cotton sheets promptly after washing will reduce wrinkling.
Unlike man made fibers, cotton will benefit from line-drying, leaving them almost wrinkle free and smelling fresh. If you wish you may also tumble dry on a low heat. Use the cool down cycle at the end to reduce wrinkles. Shaking your linen before putting it into the tumble dryer will also help reduce creasing. Remove sheets while they are still slightly damp and hang to finish drying.
After remaking your bed, smooth your cotton sheets by hand to minimize wrinkles. Ironing is a matter of choice but not usually necessary for cotton sheets. However, some people prefer to iron their cotton sheets for a crisper appearance.
A little known, but very important fact, is that Egyptian cotton is the best type of cotton fabric for allergy sufferers. This is due to the fact that good Egyptian cotton is hand-picked from organically-grown harvests.
Removing cotton sheets promptly after washing will reduce wrinkling. Shaking linens out prior to placing them in the dryer will reduce wrinkling as well. When machine drying, use a warm temperature setting, remove sheets while they are still slightly damp and hang to finish drying. After remaking your bed, smooth your cotton sheets by hand to minimize wrinkles. Ironing is a matter of choice but not usually necessary for cotton sheets. However, some people prefer to iron their cotton sheets for a crisper appearance.
Washing bath towels
We would recommend washing your towels before use. This helps to “break them in”, which makes them softer and more absorbent. Several washings are needed before 100% Egyptian cotton towels are at their maximum absorbency and softness.
Launder towels in warm water (no higher than 40C) and a gentle detergent. You should note that the use of fabric softeners will impair the absorbency of the towel.
A natural fiber such as cotton will benefit from line drying, leaving them smelling fresh and wrinkle free. If you wish you may also tumble dry on a low heat. Use the cool down cycle at the end to reduce wrinkles. Shaking your linen before putting it into the tumble dryer will also help reduce creasing. Remove from the tumble dryer promptly after cycle.
Washing Cotton Bed Sheets: Percale Sheets, Cotton Sateen Sheets and Egyptian Cotton Sheets
Cotton percale refers to a closely woven, high thread count combed cotton fabric. Thread count refers to the number of horizontal and vertical threads used to create one square inch of fabric. Most people think percale refers to the fabric content, however, it really refers to the weave of the fabric. Cotton percale sheets typically have a thread count of 180 or more and can be easily home laundered. Cotton Percale is known to wash well and last for many years.
Cotton sateen is generally made from combed thread, but uses a finer thread than cotton percale. It is woven differently and generally has a higher thread count than percale as finer threads are used. Cotton sateen sheets have a tendency to lose their sheen after the first washing, due to the type of construction of a sateen weave. However, ironing cotton sateen sheets after washing will immediately smooth the fibers and restore the luster and silkiness of the fabric.
Egyptian cotton is considered to be one of the finer types of cotton, as it refers to a long staple fine cotton usually grown in northern Africa. Due to the long staple fiber of Egyptian cotton, bedding made of this fabric is durable as well as silky smooth. Long staple cotton is less likely to become rough, pill and exhibit surface balling, all which detract from the longevity of a fabric. Hand picked long staple Egyptian cotton is even more durable as hand picking, rather than mechanical picking, leaves cotton fibers straight, long and intact.
Egyptian cotton that has undergone a mercerization process is the most durable type of Egyptian cotton. Mercerization is a process whereby a cotton yarn or fabric is passed through a controlled heat atmosphere (termed singeing) and then treated with a solution of Caustic Soda (sodium hydroxide). This process burns any fuzz off of the cotton yarn and ultimately results in cotton that has a higher luster and dye affinity. Subsequently, repeated washing is less likely to lead to fading, in color or luster, of your mercerized Egyptian cotton sheets. A little known, but very important fact, is that Egyptian cotton is the best type of cotton fabric for allergy sufferers. This is due to the fact that good Egyptian cotton is hand-picked from organically-grown harvests.
Always wash your cotton percale sheets, cotton sateen sheets and Egyptian cotton sheets in a separate load than your regular laundry, as zippers, hooks and buttons have a tendency to damage cotton linens. Take care to always use a gentle wash cycle with a cold temperature setting, and a mild detergent. Quality, pH balanced detergents, such as Tide, are recommended when laundering fine cotton linens. Chlorinated bleach is not recommended as it will damage quality cotton bedding fibers over time. If necessary, non-chlorinated bleach can be used with white and ivory cotton linens.
Removing cotton sheets promptly after washing will reduce wrinkling. Shaking linens out prior to placing them in the dryer will reduce wrinkling as well. When machine drying, use a warm temperature setting, remove sheets while they are still slightly damp and hang to finish drying. After remaking your bed, smooth your cotton sheets by hand to minimize wrinkles. Ironing is a matter of choice but not usually necessary for cotton sheets. However, some people prefer to iron their cotton sheets for a crisper appearance.
To Buy List
1. Hasegawa tatami mat
- $79.90 + 10% discount
- lookout for June & Dec 09
- at Takashimaya
2. Electric Cooker
3. Sofa
4. Bedroom set
5. TV Console
6. Home Theater System
7. Kitchenware
8. Kitchen Towel
9. Shoe Cabinet
- $79.90 + 10% discount
- lookout for June & Dec 09
- at Takashimaya
2. Electric Cooker
3. Sofa
4. Bedroom set
5. TV Console
6. Home Theater System
7. Kitchenware
8. Kitchen Towel
9. Shoe Cabinet
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Unconventional Regulator on Crestar Ceiling Fan
What is this?
Normal fan regulator will have the following :
0 - OFF
1 - Lowest speed
2 - Speed higher than 1
3 - Speed higher than 2
4 - Highest speed
But my Crestar ceiling fan having the following instead :
0 - OFF
1 - Highest speed
2 - Speed lower than 1
3 - Speed lower than 2
4 - Lowest speed
Called up Crestar service center, was given the answer that this is their intended design. What a stupid designer to come out with this!
If any of you Crestar Fan designer see this, please change the design OK!
Normal fan regulator will have the following :
0 - OFF
1 - Lowest speed
2 - Speed higher than 1
3 - Speed higher than 2
4 - Highest speed
But my Crestar ceiling fan having the following instead :
0 - OFF
1 - Highest speed
2 - Speed lower than 1
3 - Speed lower than 2
4 - Lowest speed
Called up Crestar service center, was given the answer that this is their intended design. What a stupid designer to come out with this!
If any of you Crestar Fan designer see this, please change the design OK!
Problem with my new Washing Machine Electrolux EWF1090
Eeerrghh!
Just bought a ELECTROLUX EWF1090 8kg Washer and one of the button is spoilt! And I had chosen Electrolux as I thought that this is a Brand that is so trustable...uurgh
And the worse is I keep calling the Electrolux customer service and the phone line is busy all the time. Left my number in the mailbox but nobody returned my call!
What a Great Expectation :(
Just bought a ELECTROLUX EWF1090 8kg Washer and one of the button is spoilt! And I had chosen Electrolux as I thought that this is a Brand that is so trustable...uurgh
And the worse is I keep calling the Electrolux customer service and the phone line is busy all the time. Left my number in the mailbox but nobody returned my call!
What a Great Expectation :(
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Traffic Building Link Building Tips
http://www.seobook.com/archives/001792.shtml
71 Good Ways to Build Links
Love for Lists
1. Build a "101 list". These get Dugg all the time, and often become "authority documents". People can't resist linking to these (hint, hint).
2. Create 10 easy tips to help you [insert topic here] articles. Again, these are exceptionally easy to link to.
3. Create extensive resource lists for a specific topic (see Mr Ploppy for inspiration).
71 Good Ways to Build Links
Love for Lists
1. Build a "101 list". These get Dugg all the time, and often become "authority documents". People can't resist linking to these (hint, hint).
2. Create 10 easy tips to help you [insert topic here] articles. Again, these are exceptionally easy to link to.
3. Create extensive resource lists for a specific topic (see Mr Ploppy for inspiration).
10 easy tips to help you choose the right washing machine
1. Measure the space that you have to put your washing machine in order to know the size limit of the washer that you can buy.
2. What is the capacity of washer that you need.ie. how many kg loading?
3. Define what are the "must have" features in the washer that you need.
4. Define what are the " must not" in the washer so that you can eliminate the inappropriate washers from your list.
5. Define your budget.
6. Talk to various salespersons to understand what kind of washers there are in current market.
7. Compare between comparable brands and models of the same range that you are looking at.
8. Decide on which brand and model you want. You may consider factors such as reliability, performance, cost, service supportability, warranty, ease of use, etc.
9. Once you have decided on the brand and model of the washer, compare among a few different shops to get the best price.
10. Buy that washer of your choice!
2. What is the capacity of washer that you need.ie. how many kg loading?
3. Define what are the "must have" features in the washer that you need.
4. Define what are the " must not" in the washer so that you can eliminate the inappropriate washers from your list.
5. Define your budget.
6. Talk to various salespersons to understand what kind of washers there are in current market.
7. Compare between comparable brands and models of the same range that you are looking at.
8. Decide on which brand and model you want. You may consider factors such as reliability, performance, cost, service supportability, warranty, ease of use, etc.
9. Once you have decided on the brand and model of the washer, compare among a few different shops to get the best price.
10. Buy that washer of your choice!
101 list of shops that sell cheap electrical appliances
make a call to James at Hong Liang (Alexandra), Alice at Kong Tai (Jurong West) or Lewis Goh of Mega DIscount (Katong Mall) and compare the best deals
1) Dav Electronics
21 Lor Kilat #01-02 Sun Ct Singapore 598123 (next to bukit timah SC)
Tel : 6467 7767
Fax : 6467 7207
2) Kong Tai Electrical Trading
504 Jurong West St 51 #01-221
Tel: 65658924
3) Universal Union
HTTP://www.universalunion.com.sg
710 Geylang Road (next to Lor 44)
Singapore 389625
TEL:
(65) 6749 0007
(65) 6743 3852
FAX:
(65) 6746 8849
EMAIL: sales@universalunion.com.sg
4) Everjoint (ang mo kio)
http://www.everjoint.com.sg
Block 159, Ang Mo Kio Ave 4, #01-534, Singapore 560159.
Tel : 64589569 / 64582531 / 64582578 Fax: 64562335
Email: everjoint@pacific.net.sg
BUSINESS HOURS:
Monday to Saturday - 9 am to 8 pm
Public Holiday - 9 am to 6pm
Close on Sunday
5) GENOVA INDUSTRIES PTE LTD
http://www.genova.com.sg
58 Bendemeer Road
Singapore 339937
Tel : (65) 6299 0222 (5 Lines)
Fax : (65) 6296 4831
Email: genova@singnet.com.sg
6) Poh Joo Hardware
http://www.pohjoo.com/contacts.html
a)Address : 125, Rangoon Road, Singapore 218403
Tel: 6296 7178
Fax: 6295 0771
Operating hours :
Mon - Sat : 8:00 a.m - 6:00 p.m
b) Address :159, Jalan Besar, Singapore 208875.
(Opp. Jalan Berseh Hawker Center)
Tel: 6398 0588
Fax: 6398 1689
Operating hours :
Mon - Sat : 8:30 a.m - 6:00 p.m
c) Address :389/391, Jalan Besar, Singapore 209004.(Opp. Lavender Food Square)
Tel: 6292 3388
Fax: 6299 0690
Operating hours :
Mon - Sat : 8:30 a.m - 6:00 p.m
Sun : 11:00 a.m - 5:00 p.m
7) Goh Ah Bee (kovan city, near kovan mrt)
Blk 210 # 01-247,Hougang Street 21
6288 8611
note: pls call for shop opening hrs. i know they are not open on sunday. this shop has been around for many many years so definitely they are sincere retailers (heard from old uncles).
8) Hoe Kee Hardware
http://www.hoekee.com
no. 8 genting lane - more stock and variety there but its closed on sunday, sat its open till 6pm
a) HEAD OFFICE
No. 8 Genting Road S(349472)
Tel: 6296 6827 Fax: 6296 1911
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays
(9 AM - 6 PM)
b) New World Centre (Next to Macdonalds)
No. 1 Jalan Berseh #01-07 to #01-11
Tel: 6392 9909
Closed on Tuesdays (10 AM - 7 PM)
c) IMM Building
No. 2 Jurong East St 21 L3-26
Tel: 6563 5088
OPEN DAILY (11 AM - 9 PM)
d) Tanjong Katong Complex
No. 845 Geylang Road #01-38
Tel: 6745 7055
OPEN DAILY (12 PM - 9 PM)
e) Plaza Singapura
No. 68 Orchard Road #04-03A
Tel: 6238 8729
OPEN DAILY (11 AM - 9 PM)
9) BUAN SENG HUAT ELECTRICAL & GAS DEALER
Blk 205, Bedok North St 1, #01-391
6443 8010
10) ETRONIN ELECTROMART
Blk 510, Bedok North Ave 2, #01-51
6444 7325
11) Lucky Store at Transit Road : 64560788
12) Chin Leong & Co at 664 Geylang Rd: 67443053
1) Dav Electronics
21 Lor Kilat #01-02 Sun Ct Singapore 598123 (next to bukit timah SC)
Tel : 6467 7767
Fax : 6467 7207
2) Kong Tai Electrical Trading
504 Jurong West St 51 #01-221
Tel: 65658924
3) Universal Union
HTTP://www.universalunion.com.sg
710 Geylang Road (next to Lor 44)
Singapore 389625
TEL:
(65) 6749 0007
(65) 6743 3852
FAX:
(65) 6746 8849
EMAIL: sales@universalunion.com.sg
4) Everjoint (ang mo kio)
http://www.everjoint.com.sg
Block 159, Ang Mo Kio Ave 4, #01-534, Singapore 560159.
Tel : 64589569 / 64582531 / 64582578 Fax: 64562335
Email: everjoint@pacific.net.sg
BUSINESS HOURS:
Monday to Saturday - 9 am to 8 pm
Public Holiday - 9 am to 6pm
Close on Sunday
5) GENOVA INDUSTRIES PTE LTD
http://www.genova.com.sg
58 Bendemeer Road
Singapore 339937
Tel : (65) 6299 0222 (5 Lines)
Fax : (65) 6296 4831
Email: genova@singnet.com.sg
6) Poh Joo Hardware
http://www.pohjoo.com/contacts.html
a)Address : 125, Rangoon Road, Singapore 218403
Tel: 6296 7178
Fax: 6295 0771
Operating hours :
Mon - Sat : 8:00 a.m - 6:00 p.m
b) Address :159, Jalan Besar, Singapore 208875.
(Opp. Jalan Berseh Hawker Center)
Tel: 6398 0588
Fax: 6398 1689
Operating hours :
Mon - Sat : 8:30 a.m - 6:00 p.m
c) Address :389/391, Jalan Besar, Singapore 209004.(Opp. Lavender Food Square)
Tel: 6292 3388
Fax: 6299 0690
Operating hours :
Mon - Sat : 8:30 a.m - 6:00 p.m
Sun : 11:00 a.m - 5:00 p.m
7) Goh Ah Bee (kovan city, near kovan mrt)
Blk 210 # 01-247,Hougang Street 21
6288 8611
note: pls call for shop opening hrs. i know they are not open on sunday. this shop has been around for many many years so definitely they are sincere retailers (heard from old uncles).
8) Hoe Kee Hardware
http://www.hoekee.com
no. 8 genting lane - more stock and variety there but its closed on sunday, sat its open till 6pm
a) HEAD OFFICE
No. 8 Genting Road S(349472)
Tel: 6296 6827 Fax: 6296 1911
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays
(9 AM - 6 PM)
b) New World Centre (Next to Macdonalds)
No. 1 Jalan Berseh #01-07 to #01-11
Tel: 6392 9909
Closed on Tuesdays (10 AM - 7 PM)
c) IMM Building
No. 2 Jurong East St 21 L3-26
Tel: 6563 5088
OPEN DAILY (11 AM - 9 PM)
d) Tanjong Katong Complex
No. 845 Geylang Road #01-38
Tel: 6745 7055
OPEN DAILY (12 PM - 9 PM)
e) Plaza Singapura
No. 68 Orchard Road #04-03A
Tel: 6238 8729
OPEN DAILY (11 AM - 9 PM)
9) BUAN SENG HUAT ELECTRICAL & GAS DEALER
Blk 205, Bedok North St 1, #01-391
6443 8010
10) ETRONIN ELECTROMART
Blk 510, Bedok North Ave 2, #01-51
6444 7325
11) Lucky Store at Transit Road : 64560788
12) Chin Leong & Co at 664 Geylang Rd: 67443053
Friday, January 2, 2009
How to choose beddings
Here's some tips on how to choose the right bedsheet set :
1. Find out what size and side thickness length of bedding you need.
2. Think about what theme you want. Would you want a simple stripe, polka dots, or a floral design? The color that you prefer?
3. Pay attention to what the sheets you're buying are made out of.
4. Pay attention to the weave of the cotton if you're buying cotton.
5. Check the "thread count" on the label.
6. Most sheet sets come with a fitted sheet / plain sheet, two pillowcases and sometimes also a bolster case. You may also want to buy a quilt cover, blanket or comforter.
7. Washing: Some comforters can be washed in home washing machines if the machine is large enough. Some comforters however may require that you to take them to be dry cleaned or to a laundromat (laundromats tend to have a few larger machines for this purpose.) Be patient and follow the care directions. If washing at home or laundromat, don't use harsh detergents and use the extra rinse cycle. When it comes to drying the comforter in the dryer, toss a tennis ball or two into the dryer with the comforter and allow the comforter to take 3-4 hours to dry.
Tips
* Try not to order from the Internet. Usually, bedding looks different in your room and the Internet.
* Just choose what you like!
* To put your sheets in order and give them a crisp, luxurious hotel feel, take them to the dry cleaners for cleaning and pressing.
1. Find out what size and side thickness length of bedding you need.
2. Think about what theme you want. Would you want a simple stripe, polka dots, or a floral design? The color that you prefer?
3. Pay attention to what the sheets you're buying are made out of.
4. Pay attention to the weave of the cotton if you're buying cotton.
5. Check the "thread count" on the label.
6. Most sheet sets come with a fitted sheet / plain sheet, two pillowcases and sometimes also a bolster case. You may also want to buy a quilt cover, blanket or comforter.
7. Washing: Some comforters can be washed in home washing machines if the machine is large enough. Some comforters however may require that you to take them to be dry cleaned or to a laundromat (laundromats tend to have a few larger machines for this purpose.) Be patient and follow the care directions. If washing at home or laundromat, don't use harsh detergents and use the extra rinse cycle. When it comes to drying the comforter in the dryer, toss a tennis ball or two into the dryer with the comforter and allow the comforter to take 3-4 hours to dry.
Tips
* Try not to order from the Internet. Usually, bedding looks different in your room and the Internet.
* Just choose what you like!
* To put your sheets in order and give them a crisp, luxurious hotel feel, take them to the dry cleaners for cleaning and pressing.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Do you know what is the sex of your washing machine?
It's a Male.
Because it insert (pipe) and pumps into a (water outlet) hole!!
Because it insert (pipe) and pumps into a (water outlet) hole!!
Change my template today!
Someone commented my previous blog template is very obiang...so here's the new face!
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