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Give the gift of sustainable luxury this Mother’s Day

With Mother’s Day around the corner, it’s time to celebrate the most important women in our lives with affordable luxury that doesn’t cost the earth. To spoil the mums in your life this year, discover the ideal gift to honour and celebrate your most treasured moments together with L’Occitane’s limited edition Mother’s Day collections. You can feel good about gifting these organic and sustainably sourced products to your loved ones, as L’Occitane have created these little luxuries while respecting and caring for everything the ground grows for us and beyond. By sourcing fair-trade and organic shea butter from women’s collectives in Burkina Faso and recently in Ghana, L’Occitane are dedicated to helping the local ecosystem and supporting the community. The L’Occitane group celebrates the official B Corp certification, demonstrating that as a business, they’re not just about beauty; they believe in Cultivating Change to create a fairer, more equitable and regenerative planet. This Mother’s Day, L’Occitane has something for everyone, with gift packs available for every budget, ranging from just $34 to the ultimate gift set priced at $280. From hand creams, body lotions and washes, to fragrances and luxury skin care, these limited edition gifting packs have exactly what you need to give the gift of indulgence this Mother’s Day. L’Occitane presents a superb range that embodies the essence of gratitude, showing appreciation through thoughtfully selected gifts that not only pamper, but also reflect a commitment to sustainable practices. It’s more than a gift; it’s a gesture that acknowledges the importance of those who have shaped our lives. L’Occitane’s Mother’s Day collection is available now both <a href="https://au.loccitane.com/mothers-day.html">online</a> and in-store. Image credits: Supplied / Getty Images

Beauty & Style

Woman receives lifetime ban from cruise line over "illegal" item

A 42-year-old mother has received a lifetime ban from Carnival Cruise Line voyages, after she attempted to board one of the company's ships with a seemingly innocent item. Melinda Van Veldhuizen, a nurse practitioner and mother of two from Texas, said she was treated "like a criminal" when cruise ship employees found a bag of the CBD “sleep tight” gummies in her luggage while at a port in Miami. Melinda told local news station WPLG she packed the gummies to help her get some sleep on the August trip she had planned to take with her family to celebrate both her 21st wedding anniversary with her husband and her son’s senior year of high school. Ms Van Veldhuizen was taken to a separate area of the security check-in when the discovery was made, and was questioned by Carnival security and police for two and a half hours. The mother was blocked from boarding the ship, and her husband and son also disembarked as they didn’t want to go on the cruise to Aruba, Curaçao and the Dominican Republic without her. The family had spent just under $9,000AUD on their planned vacation, Ms Van Veldhuizen’s attorney Daren Stabinski told the Washington Post. CBD is a compound commonly derived from hemp that doesn’t cause impairment or a “high,” and is different from marijuana's mind-altering substance of THC. CBD is becoming more readily available across the globe, and is used to treat ailments from chronic pain to sleeplessness. In most parts of the US, CBD products that contain no greater than 0.3 per cent of THC are legal. According to WPLG, Ms Van Veldhuizen’s gummies contained less than 0.01 per cent THC. Despite the product being legal in the state Ms Van Veldhuizen was departing from, the hemp product is prohibited by Carnival Cruise Lines. “While certain CBD products used for medicinal purposes may be legal in the US, they are not legal in all the ports we visit and therefore are also considered prohibited items,” its website states. Soon after Ms Van Veldhuizen was forbidden from going on the cruise she paid for, she received a letter from Carnival informing her she was banned from all Carnival ships for life. The letter signed by Captain Rocco Lubrano states that she will “not be permitted to sail on-board any Carnival Cruise Lines vessel in the future.” “This decision was based on your actions on the current cruise, which were a violation of the ship rules, interfered with the safety and/or enjoyment of other guests on the ship or caused harm to Carnival,” Mr Lubrano wrote. Ms Van Veldhuizen said she has taken more than a dozen Carnival cruises over the years and was freaked out by the letter and the whole experience, and was not expecting such a severe reaction. “I thought it was one of those situations where you’re like, ‘Oh shoot, I left a bottle of water in my backpack; you gotta throw it away,’ kind of thing like that happens at TSA,” she said. Ms Van Veldhuizen is pursuing an internal claim with Carnival, but has threatened to sue if her situation isn’t resolved “appropriately” and hired Mr Stabinski to assist her. “Out of all the cases I take, this one was just specifically outrageous,” Mr Stabinski said. Image credits: WPLG

Travel Trouble

This bathroom item is dirtier than your toilet seat, according to a microbiologist

Bathrooms and germs Bathrooms are filthy – there’s just no way around it. They’re home to toilets, sinks and showers and tend to be one of the dirtiest places in the home, no matter how often they’re on your cleaning schedule. And because the toilet seat plays host to your derrière, it’s easy to label this as the germiest spot in the bathroom. But research is disproving that notion. Overall, the hard surfaces – such as the toilet seat and floor – are scrubbed down often because they’re the first lines on your bathroom cleaning checklist. And many people focus on cleaning the toilet because nothing screams dirty like a line of biofilm in the toilet bowl. But what about other bathroom-specific items? Dr Charles Gerba, a microbiology professor at the University of Arizona, says that it’s the fabrics in our bathroom that deserve the most attention. Yes, your bathmat is actually dirtier than your toilet seat, followed by towels, including those facecloths (which is why you need to wash your towels often). Here’s what you need to know. Are bathmats really that dirty? “We’ve done a lot of research on the microbiology of homes and, more recently, the bathroom,” says Gerba. The bathmat is problematic for two reasons, he says. First, it gets wet when you’re getting out of the shower, and it stays wet and moist, often in a dark and damp room. The second issue is that many people wear shoes in the bathroom, a huge contributing factor to the dirt, grime and bacteria found on bathmats. “Almost 90% of all shoes have faecal bacteria on them,” Gerba says. “You’re walking in dog poop all the time, and you don’t know it.” Beyond tracking shoes throughout the house and across bathmats, Gerba also pointed out the potential of spray from the toilet to land on bathmats. The Ecological Fluid Dynamics Lab at the University of Colorado Boulder experimented to see how far water droplets were ejected into the air when flushing public restroom toilets. The airborne particles shoot out quickly, reaching as much as 1.5 metres above the toilet within 8 seconds. The droplets were unpredictable and landed on the walls around the toilet, including behind it, and also on the ceiling. Which means that depending on the proximity, spray from a toilet can easily touch down on a plush bathmat. But while some research might suggest closing the toilet seat cover at home before flushing, not everyone agrees with that solution. “When you close the lid, the spray then goes over the top of the toilet seat and hits the walls on the side because you’ve narrowed the opening, which makes the water shoot out at a higher speed,” Gerba says, adding that closing the lid also leads to the toilet seat and underside of the lid getting more contaminated. How to prevent dirty bathmats Whether or not you close the toilet seat, one thing is certain: Keeping your bathmat as dry as possible is important. One of the factors that make bathmats the dirtiest spot in the bathroom is that they sometimes stay damp for hours, depending on how humid your environment is, how many people are showering and how much water splashes on them. Drying off in the shower will keep your bathmat from getting soggy. You can also hang it to dry instead of leaving it on the floor, where it will stay wet longer. Another tip: If you don’t remove your shoes when entering your house, at least take them off before going into the bathroom (and clean your floors often). That way, you’re not tracking outside germs onto a bathmat where they can quickly and easily multiply. “When you get out of the shower, it’s moist,” Gerba says. “Any time we have a fabric, it absorbs water, and things like faecal bacteria will survive longer there than on hard surfaces.” How to wash your bathmat The hard surfaces in bathrooms are satisfying to spray and wipe down, which Gerba recommends doing every few days. But what about bathmats? You should wash your bathmat at least once a week, and not just to keep it fresh and fluffy, but importantly, to remove bacteria. The first step to washing bathmats is to check the care label and follow the instructions on the tag, including which temperature is best for the fabric. Most bathmats can be machine-washed, but be careful with rubber-backed bathmats, which shouldn’t be dried on high heat. In general, quick-drying fabrics, such as microfibre and chenille, can be good options because they dry fast and are easy to launder. Something you can easily wash twice per week is the healthiest option. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/food-home-garden/home-tips/this-bathroom-item-is-dirtier-than-your-toilet-seat-according-to-a-microbiologist" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Home & Garden

The life-saving item no Grey Nomad should travel without

When General Practitioner Paul Kelly hung up his stethoscope after nearly 40 years of dedicated service, he had a retirement dream shared by many Australians – hitting the open road and exploring the world with his wife, Robyn. However, with a history of heart problems, he was understandably hesitant about venturing far from medical facilities. His concerns were put to rest when a groundbreaking device, <a href="https://cellaed.io/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the CellAED personal defibrillator</a>, became available. Compact enough to fit in the glove box, this innovative device has opened up a world of possibilities for adventurers like Paul and Robyn. In Australia, a staggering 20,000 people suffer sudden cardiac arrests outside of hospitals each year. Sadly, only 10% of them survive. The introduction of CellAED, a handheld defibrillator, is changing these grim statistics by providing a lifeline to those in remote areas. Paul and Robyn are enthusiastic members of this country's growing community of grey nomads. According to ABS data, nearly 16 million caravan and camping trips were made last year, with the majority taken by individuals in the age group most at risk of cardiac arrest. Therefore, it's not surprising that an increasing number of travellers, like Paul, are arming themselves with a CellAED as they embark on adventures across the country. Paul attributes the device to giving him the peace of mind and confidence to travel far and wide. In the past year alone, he has spent over four months caravanning along the picturesque Murray River, explored the coastlines of New South Wales and Victoria, and even managed a European holiday to France. With no intention of slowing down, Paul's trusted travel companion, the handheld defibrillator, has granted him the freedom to explore the heart of Australia without constant worry. "Hopefully, we'll never have reason to use it," Paul says, "but it sure takes the stress out of wondering what we'd do in an emergency." The CellAED defibrillator was developed by the Australian startup, Rapid Response Revival. This groundbreaking device is a game-changer because it's more affordable, portable and easier to use than conventional Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). Luke Starr, a spokesman for CellAED, emphasised the importance of addressing the issue of cardiac arrests in remote areas. He noted, "A key reason why so few survive sudden cardiac arrest is because help is too far away or too slow. CellAED was created to tackle that problem. "Travelling with a CellAED personal defibrillator isn't just about looking after yourself. It's about giving your traveling companions and the people you meet along the way a fighting chance if the unthinkable happens. Sudden cardiac arrest is survivable if it's witnessed by someone who knows what to do," Starr added. Starr further advised, "One of the best gifts you can give your travelling companions is learning how to recognise cardiac arrest and what to do if it happens. If someone has collapsed, is unresponsive, and isn't breathing normally, call emergency services, start CPR, and get a defibrillator onto their bare chest. If you can do this within the first couple of minutes of an arrest, you'll be giving the patient their best chances of survival." The CellAED invention aims to offer more people the opportunity to survive cardiac arrest without relying on sheer luck. With CPR training and a CellAED handy, individuals are prepared to save lives from cardiac arrest wherever they go. The groundbreaking invention comes after new research pointed towards alarming statistics about heart conditions in Australia, revealing that people living in regional, rural, or remote areas are 90% more likely to die from heart conditions caused by high blood pressure than their urban counterparts. The Heart of Inequality report from the Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research (MMIHR) at ACU underscores the stark disparities in heart disease outcomes across Australia, particularly affecting regional and Indigenous communities. Key findings from the report include the continuous increase in the burden of chronic heart disease, with hundreds of thousands of hospital admissions for heart-related conditions among Australians aged 35 and over. Moreover, Indigenous Australians living in remote areas develop heart failure on average 20 years earlier than the general population. So, as Australians continue to explore this vast and varied country, lifesaving innovations like the CellAED defibrillator are playing an increasingly crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of adventurers, particularly those in remote areas. Images: CellAED

Travel Trouble

3 household items that expire sooner than you think

Milk, cheese and other fridge-dwelling food items are stamped with expiration dates that, should you choose to ignore them, will make themselves known via smell. But your house is actually peppered with items that require regular replenishment - many of which are outside of the kitchen. Thanks to this handy info, we're now aware of the many surprising household items that require a monthly or yearly upgrade. From knickknacks on your dresser to the staples in your pantry, your house is chock-full of items that can go bad. Here are a few of the most surprising. Hydrogen Peroxide Expires in: 2 months Why: Hydrogen peroxide, the versatile topical antiseptic used to prevent infection in cuts, scrapes, and minor burns, actually turns into water just two months after opening. An unopened bottle should be thrown out after one year. Kitchen spices Expires in: 1-3 years Why: Household kitchen spices, like cinnamon, cumin and basil, reportedly begin losing their lustre after just one year - both in terms of taste and smell. Brightside also claims that ground spices should be thrown out after just six months. Mosquito repellents Expires in: 3 years Why: Mosquito repellents are essentially useless after just two years, according to Brightside. You can usually tell if a bug repellent has expired by the smell - if one spray doesn't emit the pungent odour you've grown used to, it's time to throw it out. Written by Kelsey Clark. First appeared on <a href="http://www.Stuff.co.nz" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stuff.co.nz</a>. Image credits: Getty Images

Home & Garden

Take a look inside the luxury airport lounge used by the royal family

Around the world, many airports are known to boast luxurious airport lounges that service frequent flyers and elite travellers. These exclusive areas of the airport are reserved for VIP customers, with members of the royal family even utilising the luxury lounges. At London’s Heathrow Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world, the famous Windsor Suite, found next to Terminal 5, has often been used by the royals including the Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Kate. There are eight private suites, but they come at a hefty price, costing £3000 (A$5700) for just three people. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CuRL5p-IcIO/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CuRL5p-IcIO/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Heathrow VIP (@heathrowvip)</a> </div> </blockquote> The whopping price tag covers a series of luxuries during your time at the airport, including a chauffeur who picks you up from your door and takes you straight to the lounge, as well as takes you straight to the plane. There is also a private butler, personal shopper, Michelin star food, and priceless artworks adorning the suites. There are added security features too such as bombproof glass and anti-paparazzi nets to ensure privacy. This level of luxury is not exclusive to the London airport, as airports in Germany, America, the UAE and even Australia boast a similar service to VIP travellers. In Australia, the Qantas Chairman’s Lounge membership list includes the country’s top CEOs, A-list celebrities, and politicians. The lounges are in six domestic airports across the country, and offer world-class dining hidden behind unmarked wood-panelled doors. Former Qantas CEO Alan Joyce described the luxury as “probably the most exclusive club in the country” for those who are willing to spend big on the service before their flight. Image credits: Instagram

International Travel

Give the gift of luxury on any budget

As the weather starts to warm up, a lot of us are kick starting our summer holiday and Christmas plans. While trips away and what’s on the menu for Christmas lunch are obviously vitally important, it's also good to get a jump on buying Christmas presents for your loved ones. It can be hard to think of a thoughtful gift for that special someone, especially when that person may seemingly have everything. Luckily, L’Occitane’s Christmas gift giving guide has you covered. Featuring everything from affordable stocking fillers, to the most luxurious product packs, the L’Occitane 2023 Christmas collection is certain to have something for everyone. For those looking to really spoil their loved one, they have limited edition sets for the ultimate pamper experience. This year, L’Occitane have three collections on offer, each featuring heavenly scents and full-sized products for $129 each. For those on a tighter budget, or those looking to add in a little extra something special as a stocking filler, L’Occitane’s iconic mini baubles are back for another year. The baubles feature a range of mini products in varying scents for $25, giving each person a chance to fall in love with their new favourite product before committing to a full size version. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/ClnauzdvCFO/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/ClnauzdvCFO/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by L’Occitane en Provence | ANZ (@loccitaneanz)</a> </div> </blockquote> L’Occitane has a whole range of stocking fillers available, such as hand cream packs, deluxe Christmas crackers, and much more. For those who simply can’t wait until December 25th to unwrap their L’Occitane goodies, the luxury brand has brought back their deluxe Advent Calendars for another year. With both the Classic and Deluxe beauty advent calendars on offer, enjoy a little luxury everyday of December until Christmas Day. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CxIEHK7PDpG/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CxIEHK7PDpG/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by L’Occitane en Provence | ANZ (@loccitaneanz)</a> </div> </blockquote> You can feel good about gifting L’Occitane goodies for Chrstmas this year, as the brand continues to make improvements to the materials they choose to package their products in. This year, L’Occitane has reduced the use of single-use materials by a further 8%, as they make it their mission to create a positive impact for both people and the planet. So when it comes to picking the perfect present for your loved ones this festive season, look no further than the luxuries of <a href="https://au.loccitane.com/">L’Occitane</a> to give the gift of indulgence to those who matter most. Image credits: Instagram

Beauty & Style

Kyle & Jackie O reveal most stolen item from supermarkets

An undercover security guard has revealed to Kyle and Jackie O the item that is most stolen from supermarket shelves. Calling in to The Kyle and Jackie O Show on KIISFM, the the woman who works as an undercover loss prevention officer for a major supermarket chain asked the radio hosts to guess what item was often targeted by thieves. Kyle guessed shoplifters nicked razors the most, while Jackie O suspected tampons were regularly stolen. They were both incorrect, with the security guard revealing the most stolen item was a hot barbecue chicken. “That’s what getting stolen? A hot chicken?” Jackie exclaimed. “Maybe they’re struggling, I don't know. But with the prices these days, everything is going up,” the woman said. Jackie was intrigued, asking how people can unknowingly smuggle a scalding hot chicken out a supermarket undetected. The guard responded, "Two of the ones that I stopped, [put the chicken] down their pants." She went on to say they put the chooks down their "big, big trackies" to get the item out of the shops. Coles barbecue chooks currently retail between $12-13 per hot barbecue chicken, with Woolworths also usually retailing at the $12 mark. Image credits: KIISFM

Legal

10 pantry items you’re probably keeping for too long

Should you toss these pantry items? It’s likely that many of the items you store in your pantry have a surprising expiration date months (or even years) from now. But just because a product hasn’t expired yet doesn’t mean that it’s in its ideal state for consumption. While you already know which foods you shouldn’t eat past the expiration date, like milk and cheese, it wouldn’t be surprising if you didn’t give a second thought about the food in your pantry. It may be worthwhile to double check the items you have had sitting in your pantry forever. And make sure you think about removing these foods that shouldn’t go in your pantry in the first place. Quinoa The shelf life of whole grains like quinoa and farro is largely dependent on their fat content. Heat, air, and moisture are the top three enemies of whole grains because the elements can negatively affect their healthy oils, which in turn can cause your grains to go rancid sitting in your pantry. “Grains should always look and smell faintly sweet or have no aroma at all,” states the Whole Grains Council. “If you detect a musty or oily scent, the grains have passed their peak.” Turmeric Your favourite ground spices like turmeric, paprika, and nutmeg generally lose their potency after about two to three years. Eating old spices isn’t harmful to your health, but they won’t add any flavour to your recipes anymore. Do a quick sniff and taste test to determine if your spice is still fresh. Baking powder The same rules for ground spices apply to baking ingredients as well. Bags of baking powder and baking soda will lose their leavening power over time, which means a sad, flat cake for you. You can test their leavening power with this easy science experiment in your kitchen: Mix baking soda with vinegar and baking powder with hot water. If they foam up and bubble, it means the ingredients are still fresh enough for baking. Nuts and seeds You’ll want to eat un-shelled nuts like almonds and peanuts within a matter of a few weeks to a few months. “Nuts and seeds typically have a high amount of oil in them and that oil will start to go rancid after a couple of months in your pantry,” Tryg Siverson, chef and co-founder of Feel Good Foods, told INSIDER. Signs of rancidity on a nut or seed include a grassy or paint-like odour and dark or oily appearance. For optimal freshness and longevity, place the nuts and seeds in a clear freezer bag and pop them in your fridge for up to a year. Tea Your tea bags should be consumed within a year because the oils in the tea will go old and give your morning cup of tea a bad flavour. The same goes for your coffee beans and grounds. According to Isabel Maples, MEd, RDN, a registered dietitian nutritionist, you’re best off consuming beans and grounds within two to four weeks. Instant coffee lovers have a bit more time: about two months. Brown sugar An opened bag of brown sugar tends to dry up and harden from exposure to the air after four months in your pantry. Slip the brown sugar into a resealable plastic bag or airtight container to keep it soft and make it last longer. Olive oil Light and heat are not olive oil’s friends. You shouldn’t get sick from an old bottle of olive oil, but an opened bottle of the stuff can taste a bit off after six months. If you don’t use olive oil often, only buy a small bottle so you can use it before the flavour spoils. Whole grain flour Most people store their flour in the pantry, but you should actually store it in the refrigerator or freezer to keep it fresh longer. And does flour ever expire? Whole grain flour lasts up to eight months in the fridge and up to a year in the freezer. “Whole grain flours turn rancid before white flour does,” Maples said. “It doesn’t affect food safety but does affect food quality and taste.” Potatoes The spuds typically last up to two weeks in the refrigerator and two months in the pantry. You’ll know their time is up when they start growing sprouts and developing soft black spots on the skin. Brown rice Although brown rice is a slightly healthier alternative to white rice, it doesn’t last nearly as long on your pantry shelf. “With brown rice, there is oil in its bran layer,” Siverson told INSIDER. “When that oil goes rancid, it gives brown rice a shorter shelf life of about six months. You can store it in the freezer for up to a year.” Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/food-home-garden/10-pantry-items-youre-probably-keeping-for-too-long?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Food & Wine

How to clean these bathroom items that get overlooked

Cleaning the bathroom will not only make your house feel nicer for but it is important for your hygiene as so many bathroom items are used on a daily basis. Even if your bathtub, shower, tiles and sink is clean, these bathroom items deserve your frequent attention. 1. Toothbrush and toothbrush holder For obvious reasons keeping your toothbrush and toothbrush holder clean is vital to your mouth health. To keep your toothbrush clean, make sure you rinse it well after each use to avoid a build-up of toothpaste. Frequently you should do a deep clean of your toothbrush and this can be done by leaving it in a cup of vinegar for 30 minutes. The vinegar will remove the build of bacteria on your toothbrush. Remember to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months and then you can use your old one for cleaning. A toothbrush holder can be cleaned thoroughly by putting it in the dishwasher or you can rinse it out in hot water and dish soap to remove the build-up of gunk. 2. Loofah Loofahs do a great of cleaning bodies but it is important to remember to clean them as well. Your loofah can be cleaned by submerging in a 50/50 mixture of hot water and vinegar for an hour. Then leave it to dry. This method can also be used on sponges or wash cloths. 3. Razors It is important to clean your razor as a wet razor can become rusty and a moist blade can cause ingrown hairs and irritation when shaving. To keep your razor in top condition, put some rubbing alcohol on a cotton pad and swipe across your razor. Dry your razor with a towel once you are done and store your razor in a dry place in your bathroom. 4. Toilet brush To give your toilet brush a thorough clean, rest the brush between the toilet bowl and seat after cleaning the toilet. Spray the brush with a disinfectant and then let it sit as it drips for ten minutes or so. Then rinse the brush in very hot water and allow it to drip dry again. The brush holder should also be cleaned with disinfectant and then leaving it for ten minutes and rinsing with hot water. 5. Plunger After each use of the plunger, spray it with a disinfectant and leave for ten minutes and then let it air dry. It is helpful to store your plunger with a plastic bag so that way, after you use it you can put in the bag and then take it somewhere to clean to avoid any dripping. Don’t re-use the plastic bag. Image: Getty

Home Hints & Tips

Shop Smarter and Save Big: Unbeatable Deals on Appliances, Home items, and More in the EOFY Sales!

The end-of-financial year sales are one of the biggest shopping events of the year here in Australia. Our favourite brands across various categories slash the prices by huge margins so that we consumers can grab a bargain. This event takes place every year, and this time round, it may be one of the best yet, with unmissable bargains including the highly-rated <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.canningvale.com%2Ftowels%2Fcollections%2Froyal-splendour%2F&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Canningvale Royal Splendour Towel Sets,</a> which has over 2,500 5-star reviews! Reviewers shared their thoughts: “Love my new towels - they feel like a bit of luxury - great thickness and fluff. Very pleased” and “Beautiful soft lush towels very happy with purchase”. Even the talk-of-the-town Calming Blankets’ best-selling <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.calmingblankets.com.au%2Fproducts%2Fweighted-blanket&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">adult weighted blanket is $100 off, reduced to $99</a>, so grab it while you can. When it comes to fulfilling your shopping needs, there's no better time than now. Why wait? By seizing this opportunity, you might just save yourself a pretty penny or two. We understand the challenges of navigating sales and limited timeframes to find the best deals, which is why we're here to lend a helping hand. Our expertise lies in uncovering the most enticing offers across various categories as we approach the end of the financial year. Whether you're looking to upgrade your tech and appliances, revamp your home bedding and towels for the colder weather, refresh your wardrobe for the new season, or even explore new beauty products, we've got you covered. Our extensive knowledge enables us to provide you with a comprehensive list of the best deals. So, without further ado, let's dive into our curated selection of deals for you to flick through below. <h2>Home </h2> <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/05/BeddingSets_byToaHeftibaUnsplash_HERO.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash We're approaching the peak of the cold weather, so If your bedding still seems better suited for keeping you cool rather than providing cosy warmth, now might be the perfect time to make a change. While you're at it, why not consider swapping out some home decor pieces as well? Give your space a winter makeover by adding touches of cosiness and incorporating warm colours. <h3>Myer </h3> <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fhome--sale%2Fbedroom-sale%3Ffacets%3Dmv--product_type_filter--quilt20covers%252Cmv--product_type_filter--sheets202620pillowcases%26pageNumber%3D1&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 50% off selected quilt covers and sheet sets</a> <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fhome--sale%2Fsale-tableware%2Fdinnerware--sale%3Ffacets%3Dmv--mfname--heritage%252Cmv--mfname--maxwell202620williams%252Cmv--mfname--robert20gordon%252Cmv--mfname--salt26pepper%252Cmv--mfname--vue%252Cmv--sale_type--402520off%26pageNumber%3D1&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">50% off Dinnersets by Maxwell & Williams, Robert Gordon, salt&pepper and more</a> <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fhome--sale%3Ffacets%3Dmv--mfname--royal20albert%252Cmv--mfname--royal20doulton%252Cmv--mfname--waterford%252Cmv--mfname--wedgwood%252Cmv--sale_type--252520off%252Cmv--sale_type--302520off%252Cmv--sale_type--402520off%252Cmv--sale_type--502520off%26pageNumber%3D1&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 50% off a great range of Wedgewood, Royal Doulton, Royal Albert and Waterford</a> <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fhome--sale%3Ffacets%3Dmv--mfname--sheridan%26pageNumber%3D1&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 50% off the original price of Sheridan</a> House: <a style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;" href="https://www.house.com.au/collections/sale" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 75% off House-wide EOFY Sale</a> Koala: <a href="https://koala.com/en-au/eofy-sale" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 30% off site wide </a> Canningvale: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.canningvale.com%2Fsale%2Fbedding%2Fbedding%3Fis_index%3D0&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">40-60% Off in the Big Bedding Sale</a> Emma Sleep: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.emma-sleep.com.au%2Fsale%2F&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 55% off selected products</a> Sheridan: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sheridan.com.au%2Fsale.html&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 50% off sitewide</a> Calming Blankets: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.calmingblankets.com.au%2Fcollections%2Fbest-sellers&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 50% off sitewide</a> Bed Bath N’ Table: <a href="https://www.bedbathntable.com.au/products/catalogue" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Clearance Sale Up to 60% off</a> Bed Threads: <a href="https://bedthreads.com.au/pages/bed-threads-sale" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mid-Year Makeover Sale 15% off Everything</a> Freedom: <a href="https://www.freedom.com.au/c/best-selling" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Absolutely Everything on Sale</a> <a href="https://www.freedom.com.au/c/all-outdoor" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 55% off all Outdoor Furniture</a> <a href="https://www.freedom.com.au/c/all-rugs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 40% off all Floor Rugs</a> Harris Scarfe: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.harrisscarfe.com.au%2Fcategories%3Fq%3D%3Arelevance%3Acategory%3Aquilts%3Acategory%3Apillows%3Acategory%3Acomforters-coverlets%3Acategory%3Atowel-collections%3AdealType%3AOnSale%3AdealType%3AFRIENDS%2520PAY%2520LESS&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">40-60% off all Homewares & Manchester</a> Dymocks: <a href="https://www.dymocks.com.au/books/promotion-winter-sale-june-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Books for $9.99 in the Winter Sale</a> Booktopia: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Feofy-sale%2Fpromo3262.html&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 75% off top deals</a> My Deal: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mydeal.com.au%2Fsale%2Fstylish-bedside-tables&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Limited-time deals on bedside tables</a> Adairs: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.adairs.com.au%2Fsales%2F&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Save up to 30% off</a> <h3>Tech & Appliances</h3> <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/06/EOFY_Jonas-Leupe-on-Unsplash.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Photo by Jonas Leupe on Unsplash Tech and appliances are notorious for their hefty price tags, but their entertainment value or usefulness often justifies the investment. But, due to their high cost, it's wise to hold onto your bank card until the perfect deal presents itself, and that moment might be right now. Myer: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fhome--sale%2Fappliances-sale&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Great savings on Appliances by Breville, Sunbeam, Delonghi and more</a> <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fhome--sale%2Felectronics-sale&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Great savings on Tech by BOSE, Ultimate Ears, FitBit, Garmin and more</a> Dyson: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dyson.com.au%2Fdeals%2Feofy-sale&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Save up to $450, plus receive complimentary gifts and additional accessories with selected technology.</a> The Good Guys: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thegoodguys.com.au%2Fhisense-75kg-front-load-washer--hwfy7514&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">$500 Off! Fisher & Paykel 10kg Front Load Washer - $995</a> <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thegoodguys.com.au%2Fsamsung-75-inches-ls03b-4k-the-frame-qled-smart-tv-2022-qa75ls03bawxxy&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">$1100 Off! Samsung 75" LS03B 4K The Frame QLED Smart TV 2022 - $2395</a> <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thegoodguys.com.au%2Ftefal-easy-fry-classic-air-fryer-ey2018&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">$100 Off! Tefal Easy Fry Classic Air Fryer - $99</a> <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thegoodguys.com.au%2Fninja-intelli-sense-kitchen-system-ct682&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">$30 Off! Ninja Intelli-Sense Kitchen System - $319</a> Appliances Online: <a href="https://www.appliancesonline.com.au/promo/clearance-sale" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Save on Appliances in the Clearance Sale</a> <a href="https://www.appliancesonline.com.au/product/tefal-cy8515-cook4meplus-multi-cooker" target="_blank" rel="noopener">$99 off Tefal Cook4Me+ Multi Cooker + Bonus Gift</a> Bing Lee: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.binglee.com.au%2Fcategories%2Fpromotions%2Fend-of-financial-year-sale&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Huge savings in the Yenda Financial Year Sale</a> <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.binglee.com.au%2Fproducts%2Fdyson-v10-stick-vacuum-394101-01&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">$450 off Dyson V10™ Stick Vacuum, $649 (down from $1099)</a> Kogan: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kogan.com%2Fau%2Fc%2Fdyson-australia-a%2F%3Fdispatch%3Dfree%26order_by%3D-discount%26shipping%3Dfree%26page%3D1&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Save up to $450 on Dyson deals</a> <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kogan.com%2Fau%2Fc%2Fawesome-eofy-sale-tvs-home-entertainment%2Fshop%2Fcategory%2Fled-tv%2F&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Save up to 55% off TV deals</a> Harris Scarfe: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.harrisscarfe.com.au%2Fsearch%3Fq%3Dsmith%2520nobel%3Arelevance%3Acategory%3Akettles%3Acategory%3Atoasters%3Acategory%3Aair-fryers&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">40% off all Air Fryers, Toasters & Kettles by Smith+Nobel</a> <h3>Fashion & Accessories</h3> <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/06/EOFY_Priscilla-Du-Preez-on-Unsplash.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash Time to give your wardrobe an upgrade for the winter season. Think cosy layers, earthy tones, and clothes that will keep you toasty warm. Find everything you need in the sales below, and get ready to rock that effortlessly stylish winter look! Myer: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fwomen--sale%2Fwomen-lingerie-sale%2Fwomen-sleepwear-robes-sale&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">40% Off Women's sleepwear</a> <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fwomen--sale%2Fwomen-handbags-sale&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FROM $69 EACH Selected women's handbags and wallets by Marcs, Guess, Tommy Hilfiger and more</a> <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fmen-sales%2Fmen-clothing-sale%3Ffacets%3Dmv--sale_type--302520off%26pageNumber%3D1&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 50% off a range of men’s fashion</a> <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fmen-sales%2Fmen-shoes-sale&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NOW $119 EACH Selected men's shoes by Tommy Hilfiger, Lacoste, GANT, Polo Ralph Lauren, Adidas, Calvin Klein, Florsheim and Wild Rhino</a> <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fkids-sale%3Flabel%3D%26facets%3Dmv--mfname--bauhaus%252Cmv--mfname--milkshake%252Cmv--mfname--sprout%252Cmv--mfname--tilii%252Cmv--product_type_filter--coats202620jackets%252Cmv--product_type_filter--knitwear202620sweaters%252Cmv--sale_type--302520off%26pageNumber%3D1&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">30% off the original price of Kids' jackets, jumpers and cardigans by Milkshake, Sprout, Bauhaus, Tilii and Jack & Milly</a> The Iconic: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.theiconic.com.au%2Fwomens-sale&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 70% off women’s Mega Sale Event</a> <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.theiconic.com.au%2Fmens-sale&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 70% off men’s Mega Sale Event</a> Cotton On: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcottonon.com%2FAU%2Fco%2Fco-sale&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sale up to 50% off original prices</a> Bonds: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbonds.com.au&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">40% off storewide</a> Seed Heritage: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.seedheritage.com%2Fsale%2Fwoman%2F&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 50% off all sale styles</a> <h3>Health & Beauty</h3> <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/06/Jocelyn-Morales-on-Unsplash.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Photo by Jocelyn Morales on Unsplash There's nothing quite like treating yourself to something that enhances your health or beauty. If it boosts your confidence, it's definitely a smart investment. After all, you deserve to feel as good as you look, and that's something worth going for! Myer: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fsale-beauty&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 40% off beauty brands</a> <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fsale-beauty%3Ffacets%3Dmv--sale_type--402520off%252Cmv--mfname--calvin20klein%3Flabel%3D%26facets%3Dsv--category--18167%26pageNumber%3D1&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">40% off Calvin Klein fragrances</a> <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fsale-beauty%3Ffacets%3Dmv--sale_type--402520off%252Cmv--mfname--revlon%26pageNumber%3D1&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">40% off Revlon</a> The Iconic: <a href="https://www.theiconic.com.au/beauty-all/?campaign=lp-wmksbh-taf20-2423" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 70% off Beauty products in the Mega Sale Event</a> Sephora: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com.au%2Fsale&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">15% - 50% off Selected Styles only</a> Adore Beauty: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.adorebeauty.com.au%2Fc%2Fspecials%2Fclearance.html&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 50% off Clearance beauty</a> Shaver Shop: <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&xs=13&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.shavershop.com.au%2Fsale&xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 80% off</a> Oz Hair & Beauty: <a href="https://www.ozhairandbeauty.com/collections/summer-clearance-sale" target="_blank" rel="noopener">EOFY Up to 70% off sale</a> <em style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Editor's note: When you buy something using the retail links in our stories, Over60 may earn a small commission. We do not accept money for editorial reviews, and we only write about products we feel comfortable recommending to our readers. Thank you.<span style="color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">

Home & Garden

11 garage sale finds you should never pass up

<h2>Vintage furniture</h2> Want to snag the biggest bargain on vintage furniture at a garage sale? The key is to wait until the end of the day. By then, the sellers are wondering how they are going to get that heavy old sofa off of the grass and back into the living room – and they’ll be more likely to take your initial offer. Be careful with upholstered items (bed bug alert!), but once you’re confident it’s clean, try to look past garishly coloured fabric and eye-popping patterns: you can always reupholster a piece of furniture to better suit your sense of style. <h2>Artwork</h2> Garage sale artwork is a great way to add some colour to your home. It’s fun to pick up art for two reasons: you might learn about interesting local artists, or, even if you don’t like the image, you can always repurpose the frame. This is key for larger paintings and drawings, because big frames can be so expensive. Haggle if you want, since art is subjective and the sellers might not have too many interested buyers. Also, odds are that they’re tired of looking at it and just want it gone. <h2>Vintage jewellery</h2> Not to sound old-fashioned, but they don’t make jewellery like they used to – costume jewellery included. Since the popularity of items like brooches has declined over the years, you can usually get a deal on these accessories, and if you like, the possibilities for upgrading them are endless. Give tarnished silver a good polish with a paste of baking soda and warm water. For gold, paying a few bucks for solid pieces should pay off – you can always sell them for scrap or have them melted down to create something new. <h2>Kitchenware</h2> When you see pots and pans at a garage sale, look for rust, non-stick surfaces that are scratched or flaking, and chemical coatings that might leach out into your food. Cast-iron ware, on the other hand, can be salvaged and restored no matter what the condition – and it’ll last forever. Also, if you find the following items in good working condition, snap them up: stainless steel baking items, kitchen timers, serving utensils, Pyrex or ovenproof glass baking dishes, and quality knives (you can always take them in to be sharpened). Just make sure to wash these great garage sale finds well before use. <h2>Small kitchen appliances</h2> If you’re in the market for an ice cream maker, single-serve smoothie blender, or rotisserie, consider scouring garage sales first. People hold sales to sell off unused items that take up space on their benchtops, and bulky, highly-specialised small appliances are often priced to move. You’ll usually be able to scoop them up for a fraction of their retail price – even if they’ve only been used once or twice. <h2>Jackets</h2> When it comes to apparel, jackets can be among the best garage sale finds. Since sellers spring-clean before their sales, bulky or unworn winter coats and vests are some of the first things to hit the to-go pile. Check for holes and wear before purchasing, and dry clean or give a good washing before putting in the wardrobe for next year. For children, buy the next size(s) up and store in a cupboard for future seasons. <h2>Tools</h2> Tools like drills, saws, nail guns and compressors can be great garage sale finds. As long as the seller can prove that they’re in good working condition, snap them up. Ask how old the product is and how much it has been used over the years. Always keep an eye out for rust, which usually means the integrity of the metal is compromised, making the tool more dangerous to work with. <h2>Silverware</h2> Odds are you can pick up a stylish silverware set for cheaper than what you can find new at most stores, plus you’re likely to hear a cool back-story to boot. There’s also a chance that what you’ve got is actual silver. How can you tell? On the back of silver-plated items there will be markings that can include the company name, the country in which it was made, a product number, and the electroplate marking. Don’t miss this garage sale find! <h2>Bicycles</h2> Bikes can be a great garage sale find, but it’s important to take them for a test drive before you commit to the purchase. Hardcore bargain-hunters might consider bringing a wrench to adjust the seat and get a real feel for how it rides, paying particular attention to the condition of the brakes and tyres. (Although tyres can always be filled with more air, check the treads for wear and the sidewalls for cracking.) For kids’ bikes, the owner’s children might not have used the item much before they outgrew it, but ask. <h2>Exercise equipment</h2> This is one of the best garage sale finds! A lot of people lose interest in their fitness gear quickly, which means you can get the equipment you’ve been looking for at half the price or better. Look for big-ticket items (elliptical machines, treadmills) as well as other indoor merch like hand weights in autumn/winter, when New Year’s resolutions are long forgotten. Research the equipment first: it’s important to know where certain machines tend to wear out the most. <h2>Books</h2> Bulk up your home library with new favourite reads, especially children’s books (kids outgrow their books quickly as their reading comprehension increases) and hardcover classics. Image credit: Shutterstock This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/food-home-garden/11-garage-sale-finds-you-should-never-pass-up" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Home & Garden

A list of the germiest items in your home (and how to fix them)

Even when you think your house is clean, bacteria can be lurking in everyday items around the house. Check out our guide for finding the trouble spots and getting rid of them. The culprit: Kitchen sponge It’s scary to think that the item that we use to clean our dishes and benches can be harbouring some serious nasties. Think E. coli and Staphylococcus, mould, and even the influenza virus. The cure: Each time you use your sponge, rinse it out in hot water, wring and allow to air dry. Once a day, sterilise it by wetting it and placing in the microwave for 60 seconds. Change your sponge every 2 weeks to keep the germs at bay. The culprit: Kitchen sink Did you know that your sink is most likely dirtier than your toilet seat? Any fruits, vegetables, cutlery and chopping boards that may have come into contact with raw meat are potentially contaminating your sink. The cure: Three times per week, dampen the sink and spray with surface spray. Scrub the sink to remove any bacteria, especially around the drain where nasties can lurk. Use an antibacterial product to then spray the taps, sink, draining board and your scrubbing brush. Leave for ten minutes before rinsing. The culprit: Toothbrushes Each day germs move from your mouth to your toothbrush, and are then left next to any other family member’s toothbrushes to mingle and spread. Your toothbrushes are also often kept near the toilet and are possibly being contaminated with airborne bacteria from every flush. The cure: Keep your toothbrushes in an upright container (not resting on the sink) so that they can have air circulating around them. Try to reduce the germs moving from the toilet to your brush by always closing the toilet lid before flushing. If you are ill, replace your toothbrush, and treat yourself to a new brush every three months. The culprit: Electronics We touch the remote, our computers and our phones all day long – but how often do we clean them? Rarely, if ever, is the common answer. And the scary part is they can be as filthy as your kitchen sponge. The cure: Use a disinfecting wipe to go over your (switched off) electronics. Think laptops, mobile phones, and remote controls. The culprit: Bath towels We often “dry” our towels on the back of the door in a damp bathroom where they never get completely dried properly. This can cause mould, mildew and bacteria to thrive, making it possible to get a nasty rash or infection. The cure: Allow your towels to spread out and air dry. Instead of a hook it’s best to use a rack where they can be completely spread out. Change your towels every 3-4 days as this will help keep the levels of bacteria down. If your towels still smell after washing, it’s time to toss them out. Image credit: Shutterstock Related links: <a href="../lifestyle/at-home/2015/01/dirty-home-items/">5 surprisingly dirty things in your house</a> <a href="../lifestyle/at-home/2014/12/home-cleaning-tips/">10 amazing cleaning tips everyone should know</a> <a href="../lifestyle/at-home/2014/10/how-to-homemade-laundry-powder-and-softener/">How to make homemade laundry powder</a>

Home Hints & Tips

Surprising items to never take into the kitchen

Keeping your kitchen clean may seem like a never ending task at times, what with constant food preparation and other crumb and mess producing activities taking place all day long. There’s a difference however between a “messy” kitchen and a “dirty” kitchen with the latter providing a breeding ground for nasty germs and harmful bacteria. Here’s what to ban now for a cleaner, healthier kitchen space in a snap. 1. Sponges – You’ve probably heard it before but the kitchen sponge is a breeding ground for bacteria. Keep yours spick and span with a weekly soak and wash in bleach followed by a dry in the sun and chuck them out once they start to show signs of wear and tear. 2. Shabby re-usable grocery bags – If your reusable grocery bags are starting to show their age, it may be time to replace them. Your bags can harbour plenty of bacteria from the loads of groceries you use them for. A quick wash and dry can help solve the problem and prolong the life span of your bags. 3. Your mobile – Your mobile phone is crawling with germs. Taking it into the kitchen while cooking is a sure fire way to transfer the yuckiness to your food. Try and keep your device out of the kitchen or if you need it for cooking, set it somewhere away from the food and wipe your hands and device down with an antibacterial wipe after you’ve finished cooking. 4. Pet food – While keeping your dog or cat food in the house can help prevent outdoor pest problems, the kitchen isn’t the place for food bowls. If their food sits out for a longer period of time it can attract indoor pests and create a less than appealing smell. Try moving your feeding station to the laundry for a more sanitary solution. 5. Your handbag – Similar to your mobile, your handbag is literally covered in grime. Think about where you take it on a daily basis! Keep it out of the kitchen when and where possible. Image credit: Shutterstock Related links: <a href="../lifestyle/at-home/2015/10/keep-food-fresher-longer/">10 clever tips to keep produce fresher, longer</a> <a href="../lifestyle/at-home/2015/09/fun-facts-about-tupperware/">8 things you didn’t know about Tupperware</a> <a href="../lifestyle/at-home/2015/09/foods-you-shouldnt-store-in-the-fridge/">10 foods you shouldn’t store in fridg</a>e

Home & Garden

10 items you need to clean every week

Don’t let these household chores be bumped to the bottom of your to-do list. These are the items that need to be cleaned every seven days. 1. Laundry To prevent a huge pile of dirty clothes piling up, it is best to tackle the load weekly. 2. Bathroom surfaces Although your counter and mirror may look clean, it is important to clean with a disinfectant wipe once a week to remove bacteria and germs that build up from everyday use. 3. Carpets and rugs Carolyn Forte, the director of the Cleaning Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, said, “If you don't vacuum, heavy dirt gets ground in and light dust sits on top.” It is especially important to vacuum the areas around the front and back doors where dirt is carried in. 4. Dusty furniture Not only does dust look bad but it can be bad for your health and your furniture. Carolyn said, “Dust can be abrasive and can put fine scratches in the finish if something rubs against it.” Use a microfibre cloth to clean so you grab particles rather than spread them around. 5. Sheets If you have the time to wash them every week, it is important to do so as germs, sweat, and body oils build up quickly. 6. Kitchen appliances Clean your kitchen appliances with a disinfectant wipe each week to prevent a build-up of germs. "Kitchen appliances need to be cleaned of fingerprints and food bits,” Carolyn said. 7. Bathtub and shower These places collect mildew and scum. It is important to remove this material with a bath scrubber every week. 8. Toilet It is important to deep clean your toilet bowl every week. Carolyn recommends pouring a cup of bleach into the bowl and brushing it around the sides and under the rim. "Let it sit for five minutes as you move on to the next task.” 9. Kitchen floors Kitchen floors can collect liquids and food crumbs without anyone even noticing. To prevent this, clean your kitchen floors weekly. 10. Mirrors Clean mirrors will not only make your home look fresh but it will also make it easier to put makeup on. Images: Getty

Home & Garden

25 craziest things Aussies have left behind in an Uber

There’s nothing worse than leaving behind the love of your life’s number in the back of an Uber, but that’s not the only thing Aussies have left behind this year. "From a Harry Styles concert ticket to a taxidermied cat, Aussies have really outdone themselves when it comes to forgetfulness this year," Hoa Nguyen, Head of Rider Operations at Uber ANZ said. Uber’s annual lost and found index has revealed that Perth is the most forgetful city in Australia for a second year in a row, and Brisbane is the most organised. Although some Aussies lost their chance to meet the love of their life, others are blinded by love, to the point that they’ve left behind wedding bands, wedding dresses and marriage certificates. But not all is lost, Nguyen has said that there are steps you can take if this has happened to you. "The important thing to remember is that we do have a process if you suddenly realise you've left your phone, wallet or Harry Potter wand in your driver's car, head to the app for help and follow the prompts to retrieve your items,” Nguyen said. Here are the 25 most 'unique' lost items: <ol> <li dir="ltr"> A girl's number on a piece of paper who "might be the love of my life" </li> <li dir="ltr"> Wedding dress </li> <li dir="ltr"> Adult toys </li> <li dir="ltr"> Rabbit's medication </li> <li dir="ltr"> Harry Styles concert ticket </li> <li dir="ltr"> Olympic gold medal </li> <li dir="ltr"> Taxidermy cat </li> <li dir="ltr"> Segway scooter </li> <li dir="ltr"> A painting of Marilyn Monroe </li> <li dir="ltr"> Harry Potter wand </li> <li dir="ltr"> Nduja (sausage paste) </li> <li dir="ltr"> False teeth </li> <li dir="ltr"> Cockpit trainer poster </li> <li dir="ltr"> Wedding band </li> <li dir="ltr"> Cattle whip </li> <li dir="ltr"> Chainsaw </li> <li dir="ltr"> A lectern </li> <li dir="ltr"> Number plates </li> <li dir="ltr"> Birth certificate </li> <li dir="ltr"> Tray of lasagne </li> <li dir="ltr"> DJ decks </li> <li dir="ltr"> Hair extensions </li> <li dir="ltr"> A jockstrap </li> <li dir="ltr"> Robotic pool cleaner </li> <li dir="ltr"> Leather bunny ears </li> </ol> Images: Getty

Travel Trouble

The future of travel is looking bright … and feeling luxurious

A new report from Luxury Gold, experts in the realm of boutique luxury travel experiences, has shed some insight into what hopeful holidaymakers can expect to find on their next once-in-a-lifetime trip. Whether your interests lie in unique experiences you can brag about at every dinner party for the rest of your life, taking home a special piece of your dream getaway as your own personal treasure, or exploring locations most could only ever dream of setting foot in, Luxury Gold have you covered. And while some may be a little unsure at the prospect of luxury travel during a cost of living crunch, Luxury Gold have actually reported a 150% increase in bookings since 2022, and expect almost one in six Australians over 18 to spend $10,000 on their next big break. With that in mind, it has never been more important to know exactly what you want to get out of your holiday - and where to find it. Luckily for us all, Luxury Gold are experts in the field of Luxury Small Group Journeys, and are on a mission to redefine the idea of the New Golden Age of Travel. As managing director Toni Ambler explained, “a holiday is more than ‘just a holiday’ for modern luxury consumers, especially post-pandemic. Instead, it’s an opportunity to grow, learn and soak in experiences that will change us for the better. It’s travel that’s more purposeful and curated, as opposed to ‘in-and-out’ or flash-in-the-pan holidays. “Our customer base has always expected to have one-of-a-kind experiences on their trip. ‘The New Golden Age of Travel’ report underscores this notion, but also shows that we’re seeing a return to this nostalgic essence of what travel used to be in the golden age, where consumers crave curated experiences, souvenirs that matter, and activities that expand our minds.” And when it comes to <a href="https://www.luxurygold.com/en-au/experience/curated-experiences">those curated experiences</a>, Luxury Gold have noted that consumers aren’t just looking to spend their money on flights and a destination before calling it a day, in a trend they’ve named ‘Touring on Top’. Instead, they want an experience out of it all - one unique to where they’re visiting, and one that ticks every box they could ever want to fill, with a trip and itinerary designed specifically for them and their interests - even the most niche of the bunch. “Post-pandemic, we've seen a lot of change in the way Australians travel and why they are travelling. The rise of the travel advisor is key to this, as clients want end-to-end experiences and touring is the perfect example,” Global Brand and Marketing Director for Luxury Travel Associates Anna Burgdorf said. “Instead of booking flights, accommodation and activities on their own, more and more Australians want this process to be seamlessly managed and that means finding a trusted advisor that can undertake this process of collaboration with them … booking a tour simply takes the guesswork and stress out of the booking process. “Whether visiting Travel Associates or speaking with a travel agent, these experts work closely with the customer to understand their unique needs and <a href="https://www.luxurygold.com/en-au/experience/concierge-services">custom build a package tour</a> that works for them.” Essentially, people want human service, and they want someone who’s going to understand - and respect - every last bit of their holiday desires through the entire planning process. American Express have reported that 59% of people would like to work with a travel agent to get the personalised trip of their dreams, while GWI have found that 77% of luxury travellers would rather spend on an experience - or products for one - that comes hand in hand with a sense of community. A rise has occurred in the number of community-oriented trips taking place in the travel sector - with those seeking both the community experience of those they’re taking with them, and those they’re meeting along the way - as people realise what it is that’s important in life, turning their attention to experience, and not only things. However, it can be hard to come home from any trip - especially when it’s not just the trip of a lifetime, but also one entirely for you. That’s why it can make all the difference to bring a little piece of it with you, especially as travellers are searching for those crucial tangible experiences - or, as Luxury Gold have found, ‘Tangible Nostalgia’. As Toni Ambler explained, holidaymakers used to be able to show off their passports and the various stamps they’d collected within, boasting of their adventures with some proof over where they’d explored in their journey across the world. But now, trends suggest that it’s less is actually more, with Toni noting that “it’s more about the quality and unique experiences we’ve had over volume.” Additionally, people don’t just want something to pop on their shelf and forget about, instead reaching for something that evokes the same feeling as the passport boasts, or throws them right back into a moment from their trip, bringing memories to the forefront every time they’re around their treasured keepsake. For example, The Maker Hotel have released perfumes designed to remind visitors of their time living it up away from home - scents that will keep the good times coming, and won’t see those souvenir funds going to waste. TravelPulse have also revealed that music plays a major part in the travel experience, too. So the next time you’re overseas - or even exploring what’s on offer at home - make sure to compile your very own playlist, so the sounds of your experience will never be far from your ears. And as Planet 9 Private Air believe, remaining true to your destination has never mattered more to travellers, as “from the locavore culinary trend to a focus on locally made crafts and artwork, the luxury travel industry is discovering its preference for high-end goods and services sourced from the destinations they represent.” To read the full report and learn more about Luxury Gold’s six travel trends, visit <a href="http://luxurygold.com/en-au/travel-trends-report">luxurygold.com/en-au/travel-trends-report</a>. Images: Luxury Gold [supplied]

International Travel

Luxury listing offers Jaws as a housemate

An unusual house listing is boasting a unique feature that will make the new homeowner very friendly with some dangerous fishy friends. The home is located in the south Sydney suburb of <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/63-kangaroo-point-road-kangaroo-point-nsw-2224-2018457503" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kangaroo Point</a>: a waterfront area that boasts extraordinary views of the Shire waters and all its inhabitants. However, the homeowner won't even have to step outside to find the latest sea life, as the home features an enormous shark tank in the middle of the living space. Located right next to the kitchen, the 6 metre-long aquatic vault has taken the concept of home aquariums to the next level, as the 20,000-litre aquarium is the largest private residential set-up in Australia. On the floorplan, a large blue rectangle denotes the incredible inclusion, which glistens in the hallway between the dining room and kitchen and home cinema. The two-bedroom, one bathroom home also features a boat shed and 30 metre jetty out to the Georges River, just in case you wanted to get even closer to the local aquatic residents. The home last sold in March 2021, and is expected to sell this time around for approximately $4 million. Image credits: Domain

Real Estate

How to clean jewellery at home: 14 household items that work miracles

<h2>How to make your jewellery shine</h2> If you want to clean your bling but don’t want to shell out lots of money for a professional, fear not – there are lots of easy methods for how to clean jewellery right at home. You don’t have to save it for your most valuable cocktail rings or necklaces, either. Even the best affordable jewellery needs a cleaning every now and then, especially those delicate earrings that you never take off, even after they turn your skin green. <h2>What is the best home remedy to clean jewellery?</h2> These trusted everyday items are just as good as (if not better than) jewellery cleaner, and you probably already have most of them in the house. <h2>Alka-Seltzer</h2> Drop your dull-looking jewellery in a glass of fizzing Alka-Seltzer for a couple of minutes. It will sparkle and shine when you pull it out. <h2>Aluminium foil</h2> Here’s how to clean jewellery with aluminium foil: simply line a small bowl with it. Fill the bowl with hot water and mix in one tablespoon of bleach-free powdered laundry detergent. Put the jewellery in the solution and let it soak for one minute. Rinse well and air-dry. This procedure makes use of the chemical process known as ion exchange, which can also be used to clean silverware. <h2>Ammonia</h2> Brighten up your gold and silver trinkets by soaking them for ten minutes in a solution of 1/2 cup clear ammonia mixed with 1 cup warm water. Gently wipe clean with a soft cloth and let dry. Note: do not do this with jewellery containing pearls, because it could dull or damage their delicate surface. <h2>Baking soda</h2> To remove built-up tarnish from your silver, make a thick paste with 1/4 cup baking soda and 2 tablespoons water. Apply with a damp sponge and gently rub, rinse, and buff dry. To polish gold jewellery, cover with a light coating of baking soda, pour a bit of vinegar over it, and rinse clean. Note: do not use this technique with jewellery containing pearls or gemstones, as it could damage their finish or loosen any glue. <h2>Light-coloured beer</h2> Get the shine back in your solid gold rings (read: bands without any gemstones) and other jewellery by pouring a bit of light-coloured beer (not dark ale!) onto a soft cloth and rubbing it gently over the piece. Use a clean second cloth or towel to dry. <h2>Soda water</h2> Soak your diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds in club soda to give them a bright sheen. Simply place them in a glass full of soda water and let them soak overnight. <h2>Denture tablets</h2> Has your diamond ring lost its sparkle? Here’s how to clean jewellery using denture tablets: drop the tablet into a glass along with 1 cup water. Follow that with your ring or diamond earrings. Let it sit for a few minutes. Remove your jewellery and rinse to reveal the old sparkle and shine. <h2>Ketchup</h2> Let ketchup do the work of shining tarnished silver. If your ring, bracelet, or earring has a smooth surface, dunk it in a small bowl of ketchup for a few minutes. If it has a tooled or detailed surface, use an old toothbrush to work ketchup into the crevices. To avoid damaging the silver, don’t leave the ketchup on any longer than necessary. Rinse your jewellery clean, dry it, and it’s ready to wear. <h2>Toothpaste</h2> Put a little toothpaste on an old toothbrush and use it to make your diamond ring sparkle instead of your teeth. Clean off the residue with a damp cloth. <h2>Vinegar</h2> Is vinegar good for cleaning jewellery? Yes! Here’s how to clean jewellery with it: soak your pure silver bracelets, rings, and other jewellery in a mixture of 1/2 cup white vinegar and 2 tablespoons baking soda for two to three hours. Rinse them under cold water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth. <div> </div> <h2>Vodka</h2> In a pinch, a few drops of vodka will clean any kind of glass or jewellery with crystalline gemstones. So although people might give you strange looks, you could dip a napkin into your vodka on the rocks to wipe away the grime on your eyeglasses or dunk your diamond ring for a few minutes to get it sparkling again. But don’t try this with contact lenses! Also, avoid getting alcohol on any gemstone that’s not a crystal. Only diamonds, emeralds and the like will benefit from a vodka bath. <h2>Window cleaner</h2> Use window cleaner to spruce up jewellery that is all metal or has crystalline gemstones such as diamonds or rubies. Spray on the cleaner, then use an old toothbrush for cleaning. But don’t do this if the piece has opaque stones such as opal or turquoise, or organic gems such as coral or pearl. The ammonia and detergents in the cleaner can discolour these porous lovelies. <h2>Dish soap</h2> Dish soap can do a whole lot more than just clean your kitchen! It’s great for regular jewellery cleaning. All you need to do is mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water and let the jewellery soak in the solution for a few minutes. You can use this method for silver jewellery too, but you’re better off using a toothbrush or cloth to wipe down that jewellery rather than fully submerging it. Don’t forget to rinse! <h2>Shampoo</h2> A bit of mild shampoo – think baby shampoo – is a great way to polish your pearls. Stones like turquoise and opals will benefit from this treatment as well. To use this method most effectively, mix a little bit of shampoo with warm water and use a soft, clean brush like a makeup brush to polish each pearl with the mixture. You don’t want to risk damaging pearls by soaking them. Image credit: Shutterstock This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/food-home-garden/diy-tips/how-to-clean-jewellery-at-home-14-household-items-that-work-miracles?pages=2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Home Hints & Tips

7 ways to clean your kitchen with simple household items

The folks at <a href="http://food52.com/blog/14173-7-kitchen-cleaning-tricks-that-really-work" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Food52</a> have exhibited some inspired thinking and shown how we can solve various household problems with simple household items. Some of these are way too clever. 1. Get rid of fruit flies in your kitchen Before you flood your kitchen with Mortein, consider this method. Simply halve a lemon, put both sides in your oven and leave the door propped open overnight. In the morning close the door and turn the grill on for a few minutes. Turn it off, let the oven cool, throw away the lemons, clean the bottom of your oven and voila, no more fruit flies! It sounds strange but it really works. 2. Remove hard water deposits using just vinegar Forget toxic chemicals, you can brings your dingy sinks back to their glory by simply applying vinegar. It’s not just good for fish and chips – it’s pretty much a ready-made, powerful household cleaner. 3. Clean kitchen cabinets with baking soda The perfect cleaner for your gunky kitchen cabinets is actually already sitting in your kitchen! Make a solution that’s one part vegetable oil, two parts baking soda and you can clean those gunky kitchen cabinets in no time at all. All you need is a sponge, toothbrush or even just your fingers. 4. Cleaning white sinks with lemons When life gives you lemons, you actually have the perfect tool for cleaning your sink. White sinks can look dodgy with the smallest bits of mess, so combine baking soda with a lemon half to kill germs and bring back shine. Sprinkle the soda in the sink and use your lemon wedge as a scrubber. 5. Toothpicks for mixers and machinery Electric mixers and other devices can open up a world of possibilities in the kitchen, but they get dirty fast. A good way to get around this is by using a toothpick to get into any cracks and crevices that may have opened up. Then simply wipe off the residue with a damp cloth. 6. Get rid of grout with baking soda and vinegar These two common household items combing to make a gentle solution that's very effective at getting rid of stains. Simple make a paste, apply it to the grout and let it sit for a little while. Before too long spray it with vinegar. It will fizz a little, then scrub with a toothbrush and voila – clean! 7. Clean the air in odd smelling kitchens Sometimes no matter how hard we try we just can’t get our kitchens to smell clean. But before you go all gung-ho with the bleach, try this solution. Simmer some vinegar on the stove. This will help you clean the air and restore it to a more neutral smell for cooking and cleaning. Images: Getty

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