How to Make Overnight Oats

Overnight oats are easy to make, healthy and filling. You can customize these basic overnight oats recipes with your favorite milk, fruit, nuts and spices. Try the refrigerator overnight oats recipe for a quick, fresh breakfast. Opt for the slow cooker recipe if you prefer hot, rich flavors in the morning.

[Edit]Ingredients

[Edit]Refrigerator Oatmeal

• 1/2 to 2 cups (78 to 312g) rolled oats
• 1/2 to 2 cups (118 to 473ml) dairy milk, non-dairy milk or yogurt, plus extra for serving
• 1 tsp. (2.2g) chia seeds or flax seeds
• 1 tsp. to 1 tbsp. (4 to 12g) sweetener
• 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. (0.7 to 1.3g) spice, such as cinnamon
• 1/2 cup (90g) frozen, fresh or canned fruit
• 1/4 cup (27g) chopped nuts or dried fruit

[Edit]Slow Cooker Oatmeal

• 1 cup (156g) of steel cut oats
• 1 to 2 cups (175 to 350g) fruit
• 1.5 cups (355ml) dairy or non-dairy milk, plus additional for serving
• 1.5 cups (355ml) water
• 2 tbsp. (24g) brown sugar or other sweetener, plus extra for garnish
• 1/2 tsp. (1.3g) spice, such as cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tbsp. (6.6g) ground flax seed
• 1/4 tsp. (1.5g) salt
• 1/4 cup (27g) chopped nuts and/or dried fruit

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Making Refrigerator Oatmeal

1. Choose a container. You can use almost anything that has a lid. Canning jars are commonly used because they work great for storing and serving.
   
2. Add as many serving of rolled oats as you prefer. A serving is usually 1/2 cup of oats, but you may desire a more generous portion or a family size batch.
   
   
3. Add an equal amount of milk. If you use 1/2 cup of rolled oats, add 1/2 cup of milk. You can use cow’s milk, almond milk or another other type of milk to achieve the same result.
   
   
   • If you plan to add a lot of watery fruit, you can reduce the liquid by 1/4 to 1/2 cup. Fresh and frozen fruit releases plenty of liquid. This is especially important if you want a thick consistency.
4. Stir in 1 tsp. of chia seeds or flax seeds. This improves the nutritional content of the meal, and it can also make you feel fuller longer.
   
   
   • You can actually replace the oats with four tbsp. of chia seeds. The texture of these overnight oats is like tapioca pudding.^[1]
5. Add a tsp. of sweetener, like honey, brown sugar or maple syrup. You can add in 1 tbsp. of cocoa powder or peanut butter for a similar sweet effect.
   
   
   • For sweeter oatmeal, add 1 tbsp. of sweetener.
6. Measure 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. of spices, like cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice.
   
   
7. Add 1/2 cup of frozen, fresh or canned fruit. Stir the ingredients together thoroughly with a spoon. Ensure that the oats are mostly covered with liquid.
   
   
   • If you are using bananas, mash up 1/2 to one banana and then add it to the jar.
8. Seal the lid. Place it in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 5 hours. The oats will soak up the liquid so that they don’t need to be cooked.
   
   
9. Remove the oats from the refrigerator in the morning. Consider adding a handful of chopped nuts for a crunchy texture. Add tbsp. to 1/2 cup of additional milk, depending upon your preferred consistency.
   
   
10. Stir again and eat directly from the container.^[2]
    
    

[Edit]Making Slow Cooker Oatmeal

1. Coat the inside of a large slow cooker with cooking spray in the evening before you go to bed.
   
   
2. Slice 2 to 3 cups of fruit. Peeled, sliced apples work very well in this recipe. You can also use frozen fruit.
   
   
3. Add the steel-cut or rolled oats, brown sugar, ground flax seed and spices.
   
   
4. Mix in 1.5 cups of dairy or non-dairy milk and 1.5 cups of water. Stir the ingredients well.
   
   
5. Cook on low for seven hours. Spoon into bowls for serving.
   
   
6. Mix in garnishes, such as chopped nuts, maple syrup, milk or dried fruit. Serve immediate. The extra can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated.^[3]
   
   
7. Finished.
   

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• You can replace milk with an equal portion of plain or flavored yogurt. You can also do a half and half ratio of milk and yogurt. Once mixed, add water to thin the mixture and cover the oats completely.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

• Canning jars
• Spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Refrigerator
• Slow cooker
• Serving bowls

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ http://ohsheglows.com/2013/02/18/chia-seed-breakfast-bowl/
2. ↑ http://www.organizeyourselfskinny.com/2014/11/20/overnight-oatmeal-tutorial-20-delicious-overnight-oats-recipes/
3. ↑ http://www.theyummylife.com/Slow_Cooker_Apple_Cinnamon_Oatmeal

How to Make a First Aid Kit for Kids

Accidents happen, especially when kids are in the house, and being prepared with a first aid kit is always a great idea. Once you decide they're ready, teaching your child how to use the kit will help enable them to care for themselves in any kind of emergency. Having a well-stocked first aid kit on hand for your child will help put your mind at ease and let you and your family worry less when injuries occur. You can purchase pre-made kits from the store or online, but making your own first aid kit ensures your kit has everything your child could need in an emergency.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Designing the Kit

1. Decide on the right size for the kit. Consider how and when the kit will most likely be used and where it will be stored. Also, consider the age of your child and what they can carry. A manageable size for a container that would still be able to contain the necessary items for your kid is a case the size of a shoebox.^[1]
   
   • For example, you might use an old lunchbox for the kit.
   • If you're making a first aid kit for your child to bring on school trips, make sure it's small enough to fit in their backpack or gear bag.
   • If you are making a kit to keep at home, be sure it won’t be too big or cumbersome for your child to pull the kit from wherever it is stored.
   • Only teach your child to use the kit if you think they're responsible enough to understand.^[2]
2. Choose the appropriate container material. First aid kits can come in a variety of sizes and are built from a variety of materials. Choosing the right material for your first aid kit should again be based on how the kit will be used by your child. For example, lightweight plastic might work well for kits that your child travels with, but a sturdy metal tin might be great for a home kit. Some additional considerations:^[3]
   
   • Consider using a container that has a handle to make it easier for the child to transport it from one place to another.
   • Make sure the container is not made of anything that will be too heavy for the child to lift once it is full of first aid items.
   • Translucent containers will make it easier to keep track of items that need to be replaced.
   • Look for a waterproof container so that none of the items inside get damaged.
3. Make sure the container can be locked. When not in use, you want to make sure that the contents of the first aid kit are unable to be tampered with by any younger children in the house who aren't mature enough to use the kit. A clasp or lock will also ensure that the kit does not open easily during transportation. You want to be sure that the clasp is one that the child can open quickly in case of an emergency.^[4]
   
   • Try to find a container that has the same type of clasp found on children’s lunch boxes.
   • Since the kit will probably not be used very often, it is also a good idea to practice opening this lock with your child so they remember how to open it in an emergency.
   • Don't teach your child to use the kit until you think they're ready to use it responsibly.
4. Label the box as a children’s first-aid kit. The kit should be labeled clearly as a first aid kit for kids. Using a bright label, such as in red, will make the kit stand out within a crowded locker or cabinet. You should also paint or affix a symbol to show that it should be used for first aid, which is typically designated by a medical emblem or a cross (usually in white against a red background or vice versa).^[5]
   
   • It is important to label the children’s kit so it is distinct from an adults’ first aid kit. For example, also label the kit with the child’s name (e.g., KATIE’S FIRST AID KIT).
   • Consider keeping the adult first aid kit high up where it can’t be accessed by the children in the house, and be sure it has a more advanced lock or clasp on it so it is childproof. This is because your adult first aid kit will likely contain supplies that aren't appropriate for a child, such as medicated ointments. Teach your child to only use their first aid kit.
5. Affix emergency numbers to the kit. In addition to stocking the kit with first aid items, it is also a great idea to include any emergency numbers your child might need in an emergency. Collect the telephone numbers for the local emergency room, 9-1-1, Poison Control, your contact information, and the number for a trusted neighbor, family member, or friend. Each number should be clearly printed underneath the name of the location or person.
   
   • Consider including a small icon or picture for each location or person. This will help your child easily locate the number they need in a stressful emergency situation.
   • Review the icons and the list of numbers with the children who will use the kit so that they are aware of which contact is which, and how to dial the numbers, and who to call in certain situations.
   • Although it's unlikely your child will need the information, it's best to teach them how to use it in case of emergency. In most cases, your child will use their kit to find a bandaid, but it's best to be prepared.

[Edit]Stocking the Kit

1. Create a checklist of item to include in the kit. This list will not only help you stock the new kit initially, it will also help you keep track of what items have been used and need to be replaced, expiration dates, and whether or not any items or medications are missing. You should also review this list with your child as you stock the first aid kit, explaining to them what each item is, what is for, and how to use it.
   
   • Consider the age of your child. For example, a kit for a child who's 5-10 years-old might include mostly bandaids, antiseptic towelettes, and possibly instant cold packs. However, a kit for a pre-teen or teen might also be stocked with medicated ointment, sterile gauze, medical tape, an ACE bandage, a thermometer, eye wash, calamine lotion, aloe vera gel, and cough drops.
   • If your child takes a medication and knows how to administer it themselves, you might include it in the kit.
2. Include a variety of bandages. Keep all of your bandages together in a section of the kit. If your kit does not already have dividers built in, put all of the bandages in a clear plastic bag labeled “BANDAGES” with permanent marker. You can also purchase smaller plastic containers to stack within the first aid kit, also labeling the container for bandages with permanent marker. The Red Cross recommends including the following types of bandages and dressings in first aid kits:^[6]
   
   • 2 absorbent compress dressings (5 x 9 inches)
   • 25 adhesive bandages of various sizes
   • 5 sterile gauze pads (3 x 3”)
   • 5 sterile gauze pads (4 x 4”)
   • Gauze roll
   • Roll of cloth adhesive tape
   • One 3” wide and one 4” wide roller bandages (“ACE bandage”) for wrapping wrist, elbow, ankle, and knee injuries
   • 2 triangular bandages
   • Sterile cotton balls and cotton-tipped swabs
3. Add basic medical tools. Since this kit is for a child, you don’t want to include any tools that would further endanger them. Because of this, you may need to revise the suggested tools depending on the age or ability of your child. These tools will help them remove debris and prepare the wound to be dressed and bandaged. Again, keep these tools in the same area within your kit, keeping them within a separate, labeled clear plastic bag or container for ease of use. Some suggested medical tools to include:^[7]
   
   • Small, sharp scissors with rounded, child-safe tips
   • Tweezers, for removing splinters and such
   • 2 pairs of non-latex gloves
   • Non-mercury oral thermometer
   • CPR breathing barrier mask (with one-way valve), if they're trained in CPR
   • Instant cold compress
   • Instant hot pack
   • Hand sanitizer
   • 5 antiseptic wipe packets or antiseptic spray (for external cleaning only)
   • Zip-close plastic bags (to dispose of medical waste)
4. Consider including additional first aid items. Depending on the size of your container and where the kit will be used, there are additional items that are recommended to include in a first aid kit. These are more applicable for use with older children, since many of these items might not be safe for young children to handle. Some additional kit items to include^[8]:
   
   • Sterile drinking water
   • Eye protection
   • Sterile eyewash
   • Prepackaged space (warming) blanket
   • Aluminum finger splint
   • Safety pins (to easily fasten splints and bandages)
   • Antibiotic ointment (ones containing ingredients such as bacitracin or mupirocin)
   • Calamine lotion (for stings or poison ivy)
   • Hydrocortisone cream, ointment, or lotion (for itching)
   • Flashlight and extra batteries
   • Turkey baster or other suction device (for flushing out wounds while on road trips or while camping)
5. Include medications depending on your child’s age. Depending on the age of the kid(s) using the kit, you may or may not include medicine within the first aid kit. If you do choose to include medications, be sure to keep these separate from the bandages and tools, and make sure the smaller container or bag for medicine is clearly labeled as such. You should also include a measuring cup for any liquid medication, and consider labeling each medicine with the required dosages. Recommended medications to include:
   
   • Low-dose pain and fever medicines, such as children's Tylenol
   • Antacids to treat upset stomach
   • Small doses of any prescription medications taken by the child/children
   • Epinephrine autoinjector (if necessary)

[Edit]Teaching Your Child About the Kit

1. Show your child where the kit is located. You want to make sure that your child knows where the kit is located in case of an emergency. You want to make you kit easily accessible so that they don’t have to rummage around trying to find it. Designate a spot that is clearly defined, visible, and consistent so that locating the kit becomes routine. You also want to be sure to establish a location for the kit that is safely out of reach for any younger children in the house.^[9]
   
2. Go over each item in the kit with your child. As you stock the kit with first aid items, go over each item with your child one at a time. Explain to them what the item is and how it should be used. Do this calmly and try to avoid scaring your child. Remember that empowering them with this knowledge will help make emergency situations less scary. To avoid overwhelming younger children, only review 1 - 3 items per day.^[10]
   
   • Tell your child to notify you or another adult if they use the kit, especially if they or their friend is injured.
   • If an adult is available, encourage them to ask for help.
3. Include a pictogram for each item in the kit. Even with careful review and instruction, the anxiety of the situation may cause your child to forget how to use each item in an emergency. To help them remember how to use each item, create a booklet with pictures depicting each item. A pictogram can be printed out from images found online to show how each item in the kit should be used, in picture form. Go through each pictogram with your child in detail before putting it in the first aid kit. Consider creating separate pictogram booklets for each section of items within the kit (e.g., bandages, tools, medications, etc.).
   
4. Practice with your child. In order to make sure your child understands the kit and its items, role-play a few scenarios to get your child to demonstrate their understanding. Ask your child to do a demonstration of how each item in the kit should be used. Be sure to do this in a relaxed setting that does not have any interruptions. Make it fun by pretending your child is the doctor and you are their patient!
   
5. Update the kit after each use. Using the checklist within the kit, regularly monitor the contents of the kit. Be sure to review the kit’s contents after each use to take stock of what is depleted and needs to be replaced. Also be sure to check the medications and ointments to make sure they are still within their use-by date. If they have expired, remove the item, properly discard it, and restock the kit with a fresh item. Any items that are reusable should be inspected thoroughly to ensure that they are in good working condition and that they were not damaged during use.^[11]
   

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Warnings

• It is important to note that the child should be taken to the hospital after the first aid has been used. This helps so that the doctor can assess the child and ensure that they are free from danger and that all their body systems are in good working condition.

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.seattlechildrens.org/health-safety/keeping-kids-healthy/prevention/first-aid-kits/
2. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-kits/basics/art-20056673
3. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/childrenindisasters/checklists/kids-and-families.html
4. ↑ http://kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/home/firstaid_kit.html
5. ↑ http://www.redcross.org/prepare/location/home-family/get-kit/anatomy
6. ↑ http://www.redcross.org/prepare/location/home-family/get-kit/anatomy
7. ↑ http://www.redcross.org/prepare/location/home-family/get-kit/anatomy
8. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-kits/basics/art-20056673
9. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/childrenindisasters/checklists/kids-and-families.html
10. ↑ http://www.redcross.org/prepare/location/home-family/children
11. ↑ http://kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/home/firstaid_kit.html

How to Make a Candy Stripe Friendship Bracelet

A friendship bracelet makes a great gift for a special friend or loved one. The easiest and most basic friendship bracelet is a candy stripe pattern. With just a few supplies and some patience, you can create a beautiful handmade bracelet for a friend.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Making a Bracelet with Four Strings

1. Buy or collect your supplies. For the four string weave, you will need four pieces of embroidery thread (sometimes called embroidery floss) in two different colors. You can find these at your local craft store, or in the craft section of most major retailers, like Walmart or Target. Look for two colors that complement each other, such as blue and green or red and orange.^[1]
   
   • You can also make an ombre bracelet with two shades of a color, like blue or red. Ombre bracelets use a pattern where the color changes little by little from light to dark.^[2]
2. Fold your strings in half. Cut two strings of a different color so they are 65” long. Now you can fold them in half and make a ¼ inch loop. This loop will form the base of your friendship bracelet.
   
   
   • If you don't have 65" of embroidery thread, you can make your bracelet without a loop. In this case, you will need to use a length of 30" for your thread.^[3]
3. Tape your strings to your clipboard. Place your strings on a flat surface, like a table or clipboard, and tape the loop firmly to it. This will help you weave your strings more easily, as the tape will hold each in place while you knot your threads.
   
   
   • If you have chosen to not loop your threads and instead are using 30" strands, simply tape your strings to your clipboard or flat surface.
4. Arrange your strings from 1-4. Move left to right and label each in your head as string 1, 2, 3, and 4. You should be using two colors, making sure that strings 1 and 3 are your first color, and strings 2 and 4 your second color.
   
   
5. Tie a forward knot with string 1 over your other strings. To tie a forward knot, you should loop one string twice over the string to its immediate right. You should then pull the loops tight into a knot. After you have finished your forward knot on string 2, move string 1 to string 3, repeating the process until you finish this round of forward knots on string 4.
   
   
   • Your strings should now be in the order: 2, 3, 4, 1.
6. Tie a forward knot with string 2 over 3,4, and 1. Tighten each knot so that it is tight and firm. After you have tied your final forward knot for string 2 on string 1, your strings should be in the order: 3, 4, 1, 2.
   
   
7. Tie a forward knot with string 3 over 4,1, and 2. Tighten each knot so that it is tight and firm. Your strings should now be in the order: 4, 1, 2, 3.
   
   
8. Tie a forward knot with string 4 over strings 1, 2, and 3. Tighten each knot so that it is tight and firm. Your strings should now be in the same order you started: 1, 2, 3, 4.
   
   
   • Your bracelet should now have a diagonal striped pattern, with alternating colors.^[4]
9. Continue forward knotting your leftmost string across the other strings. Do this until your bracelet is long enough to fit around your wrist. You can estimate or measure your friend’s wrist if you're worried your bracelet won't be big enough.
   
   
10. Knot the loose end of your bracelet. A standard knot will do for tying off the loose ends of your new friendship bracelet. You should trim the ends so there is string left over. You will use this to tie the bracelet around the wearer’s wrist.
    
    
    • You can dip the ends in nail polish to prevent them from fraying.^[5]
    • You can add a braid after your forward knots are finish to give your bracelet more character.^[6]

[Edit]Making a Bracelet with Six Strings

1. Buy or collect six pieces of embroidery thread. Each strand should be a different color, and each should be about 2-2.5' long, or 24-30".^[7] You will also need tape and a clipboard, or in place of a clipboard you can use a sturdy, flat surface.
   
   • Choose complementing colors or contrasting colors to give your bracelet contrast. Customize the bracelet with your personal color choices, or choose a color you think your friend might like.
   • Ombre patterns change color from light to dark gradually.^[8] Your six string friendship bracelet, if you choose six different shades of the same color or shades between similar colors (like blue to green), can make an excellent ombre pattern.
2. Arrange your strings according to your preference. Collect your strands so they are in series, one strand following the next on your clipboard or flat surface. Tape your threads together in this order on your clipboard to keep them in place while you knot it in the friendship bracelet pattern.
   
   
   • It helps to label the strings by number, from 1-6. So moving left to right, the strings will be: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
   • If you have trouble remembering the numbers for your strings, write each number on a piece of tape and attach it to the end of the corresponding string.
3. Tie a forward knot with string 1 over the other strings. To tie a forward know, you should loop your string twice and then pull it tight to form a knot. You should tie a forward knot with string 1 through the rest of your strings, finishing at string 6.
   
   
   • When you have completed your first round of forward knots with string 1, the resulting order of your strings should be: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 1.
4. Tie a forward knot with string 2 over the other strings. Tie your forward knots with string 2 through the rest of your strings until you reach the final strand, which should now be string 1.
   
   
   • Be sure your forward knots are pulled tight, and when you have completed this round of forward knots, the order of your strings will be: 3, 4, 5, 6, 1, 2.
5. Continue tying forward knots across the other strings using the leftmost string. In this fashion, you will see your friendship bracelet grow in length. Continue until the bracelet is a length that fits your or your friend's wrist.
   
   
6. Knot the loose ends of your friendship bracelet. A standard not will be good enough to tie off loose ends for your new friendship bracelet. Now you can trim the ends, leaving enough left over so you can tie the bracelet around the wearer’s wrist.
   
   
   • You can dip the ends in nail polish to prevent them from fraying.^[9]
   • You can use the excess thread to add a braid to your bracelet, giving it more character.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• Once you master the basic candy stripe, you may want to try other patterns like the heart pattern, the chevron pattern, or the double wave.^[10]

[Edit]Things You’ll Need

• Embroidery thread (sometimes called embroidery floss)
• A clipboard
• Tape

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ http://friendship-bracelets.net/tutorial.php?id=12
2. ↑ http://www.textileglossary.com/terms/ombre.html
3. ↑ http://friendship-bracelets.net/tutorial.php?id=12
4. ↑ http://friendship-bracelets.net/pattern.php?id=1
5. ↑ http://life.hackaday.com/use-nail-polish-to-keep-button-threads-from-fraying/
6. ↑ http://fene4ki.ru/en/how-to-make-a-candy-stripe-bracelet.html
7. ↑ http://friendship-bracelets.net/tutorial.php?id=12
8. ↑ http://artlandia.com/wonderland/glossary/Ombre.html
9. ↑ http://life.hackaday.com/use-nail-polish-to-keep-button-threads-from-fraying/
10. ↑ http://www.buzzfeed.com/mackenziekruvant/15-summer-camp-style-friendship-bracelets-you-can-make-right#.akY1opALRl

How to Raise Chickens for Eggs

Raising chickens can be a fun family activity for urban homesteaders or rural homes. Many people come to think of their chickens as pets, as well as food providers. To keep your chickens and eggs safe, you must invest in a coop and brooder, protect hens from predators and protect yourself and the animals from harmful bacteria. Follow these tips to raise chickens for eggs.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Planning a Chicken Coop

1. Find out if it is legal to raise chickens on your land. Many cities have ordinances against raising chickens in city lines.
   
   • It is a good idea to search for town ordinances and to check with your homeowner’s association. They may have additional restrictions.
   • Most cities have stricter laws about roosters than chickens. If you want a rooster in order to grow chickens for meat, you may have more trouble.
2. Talk to your neighbors. Chickens make a fair amount of noise. Don't have roosters if you have neighbors close by; the roosters may disturb the neighbors!
   
   • Chickens will still squawk, but rest assured they will not crow like roosters.
   • Consider offering your neighbors free eggs every few weeks. They may be more amenable to the idea if they reap some benefits. ^[1]
3. Make sure you have enough time in your schedule to care for chicks and chickens. You will need to stay at home the first day the chicks arrive, and clean and harvest eggs most days of the year. If you have to work long hours, this responsibility may not be for you.
   
4. Set aside an area in your backyard for the chicken coop. If you are raising the birds from chicks, you'll have a little bit of time to build it while they grow. If you are buying older hens, you will need the coop immediately.
   

[Edit]Making a Chicken Brooder/Coop

1. Buy a chicken coop before your chickens are 2 months old. Search online for people who make chicken coops in your area, and you may be able to pick up a newly made model to avoid shipping. You can also get plan to build a coop online.
   
   • Look for a coop or design with lots of light, so your chickens will be happy.
   • Choose a coop with a run, so that chickens can roam, but be protected during the day.
   • You can buy a chicken coop from Amazon, Williams Sonoma, Petco and numerous other outlets.
   • You can also buy a chicken tractor, which is a portable chicken run.
2. Reinforce your chicken coop. Predators, such as raccoons, mountain lions, bobcats and even dogs, can slip through cracks or underneath coops. Invest some money in extra chicken wire, nails and wooden or stone borders.
   
3. Prepare your brooder/coop before you bring chicks home. Add bedding, feeders and a heat lamp.
   

[Edit]Choosing Chickens

1. Consider buying hens. They are often available in the fall, after people have raised too many chicks for their needs. However, it is hard to distinguish hens that are near the end of their egg-laying years (over 2 years old) from those who are young with many egg-laying years ahead of them, so vet your farm or seller well. ^[2]
   
2. Opt for buying chicks rather than hatching eggs the first year you raise chickens. Hatching eggs are available through purchase by mail order and in stores. While they may be cheaper than chicks, they may not have the sex determined and some eggs do not hatch.
   
3. Set up your brooder before you take the chicks home. A brooder is a heated nesting place that will keep chicks warm. They cannot regulate their body temperature for the first few weeks of life.
   
   • Find a thick cardboard or plastic box. It should be smaller when the chicks are small, and then you should replace it incrementally as they grow.
   • Place the box in an area of your house that has a steady temperature.
   • Pour 1 inch (2.5 cm) of pine shavings into the bottom of the box.
   • Place a heat lamp on the side of the box. Use a thermometer to keep the temperature at a steady 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius).
4. Purchase a chick waterer, chick feeder and chick starter feed from your local feed store. ^[3]
   
5. Buy day-old chicks at the local feed store or online. You can usually buy them between February and April. Look for “pullets” because they are female.
   
   • A full grown chicken between 2 months and 2 years old will lay approximately 5 eggs per week. In order to get a dozen per week, buy 3 to 4 chickens.
   • Make sure your coop size is large enough to accommodate them. There should be 3 to 4 square feet (0.9 to 1.2 square meters) of space per chicken inside the coop and 10 square feet (3 square meters) of space per chicken outside the coop.
6. Purchase several types of egg-laying chickens. A mixed group will provide varied sizes and colors. The following are some breeds to consider:
   
   • Americana chickens, sometimes called “Easter Eggers” are prized for their colored eggs.
   • Other popular breeds are Rhode Island reds, Cochin chickens and Barred Rocks.
   • Breeds called Australorps, Orpingtons and Faverolles are considered “winter layers” so it may be worth buying them in cold-weather areas.
   • Breeds that are considered “fancy” will lay fewer eggs. They are developed genetically for their looks rather than their egg-laying abilities.

[Edit]Raising Chickens

1. Move the heat lamp slightly farther away every week for 8 weeks. Keep it at 95 degrees the first week and decrease by 5 degrees each week until you reach 65 degrees (18 degrees Celsius).
   
   • The week after you reach 65 degrees, you can take the lamp away completely.
   • Keep a thermometer in the box so you can accurately judge the temperature. ^[4]
2. Dip the chick’s beaks in water the first day you bring them home. They are possibly dehydrated and don’t know how to drink yet. Keep an eye on water levels for the next few months to ensure they are staying hydrated.
   
   • Thirsty/hot chicks will have their beak open and pant.
3. Buy chick feed for the first few months. Chickens need food with a little sand in it, and baby chick crumbles have already accounted for this. When you replace chickens in later years, you can try mixing your own scraps with sand.
   
4. Move the chickens outdoors to their coop after 2 months. If it is still very cold in your area, you might want to wait a little longer.
   
5. Feed your chickens varied food to make deeper yolks. They can eat store-bought chicken crumbles, food scraps, insects from the lawn, night crawlers, grass and corn. Cracked corn is essential in the winter to keep their body temperature up.
   
   • Free-range eggs have lower cholesterol and saturated fats than store bought eggs. They also have higher omega-3 fatty acids. ^[5]
6. Avoid letting your chickens roam free without supervision. Although you may want them to have freedom, they will become prey.
   
   • Let them out to run around when you are doing yard work or playing in the lawn.
   • Keep them in the run until nightfall, and then close up the coop.

[Edit]Gathering Eggs

1. Place a fake egg in the nesting boxes of young hens. Make sure it is not a real egg, or they can get into the habit of eating eggs. They need to be shown where to lay their eggs.
   
   • In later years, having chickens of varying ages helps teach new hens how to behave. Most sources suggest replacing 1/4 to 1/3 of the flock each year.
2. Gather eggs each day to free up the nesting boxes.
   
3. Wipe the eggs with a soft cloth, which removes mess, but not the anti-bacterial bloom on the egg. Mother hens produce this coating to protect their eggs from disease.
   
4. Store eggs at approximately 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7.2 degrees Celsius). They should be stored in the refrigerator rather than at room temperature. Warmer temperatures can promote bacterial growth.
   
5. Protect against salmonella. The following habits will prevent backyard hens from producing contaminated eggs.
   
   • Wash eggs that are covered with chicken feces. Roll them around in a sanitizer with 1/2 oz. (14.8 ml) of chlorine to 1 gallon (3.8 l) of water.
   • Eat eggs quickly. Older eggs have a higher risk of contamination as the egg white breaks down.
   • Place chicken manure in a composter for 45 to 60 days before adding it to vegetable beds. Fresh chicken manure may contaminate vegetables with salmonella.
   • Keep potentially contaminated eggs away from pregnant women, young children or chronically ill people, who have a higher chance of infection. ^[6]

[Edit]Things You'll Need

• Chicken coop
• Chicken run/tractor
• Brooder
• Heat lamp
• Thermometer
• Chick starter feed
• Chick waterer/bowls
• Water
• Day-old chicks
• Kitchen scraps
• Cracked corn
• Chicken crumbles
• Soft cloth
• Refrigerator
• Chlorine
• Compost pile

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Raise Chicks
• Collect Chicken Eggs

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ http://www.backyardchickens.com/a/how-to-raise-backyard-chickens-in-your-city-the-basics-of-raising-chickens
2. ↑ http://www.yummymummykitchen.com/2013/04/all-about-raising-chickens-and-eggs.html
3. ↑ http://www.yummymummykitchen.com/2013/04/all-about-raising-chickens-and-eggs.html
4. ↑ http://www.artofmanliness.com/2013/03/26/how-to-raise-backyard-chickens/
5. ↑ http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2011/06/salmonella-risk-in-backyard-chicken-eggs/#.Ul1wY2Q__AY
6. ↑ http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2011/06/salmonella-risk-in-backyard-chicken-eggs/#.Ul1wY2Q__AY

How to Make Homemade Dishwasher Soap

Using a dishwasher to clean your dishes after a meal can eliminate one annoying household chore from your list. But if you're concerned about the chemicals that are used in commercial dishwasher soaps, you may feel torn between convenience and safety. Fortunately, you can make your own homemade dishwasher detergent using natural ingredients that you can buy at most grocery stores. Best of all, whipping up your own dishwasher soap is actually cheaper than buying premade formulas, so you'll save money at the same time.

[Edit]Ingredients

[Edit]Basic Dishwasher Detergent

• Dish soap
• Baking soda
• Salt

[Edit]Borax-Based Dishwasher Detergent

• 1 cup (237 g) borax
• 1 cup (237 g) washing soda
• ½ cup (118. 5 g) citric acid
• ½ cup (124 g) kosher salt

[Edit]Borax-Free Dishwasher Detergent

• 1 ½ cups (355.5 g) citric acid
• 1 ½ cups (355.5 g) washing soda
• ½ cup (209 g) baking soda
• ½ cup (130 g) sea salt

[Edit]Homemade Dishwasher Tabs

• 2 cups (474 g) washing soda or baking soda
• 2 cups (474 g) borax
• ½ cup (124 g) kosher salt or epsom salt
• ½ cup (129 ml) vinegar
• 15 to 20 drops lemon essential oil

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Making Basic Dishwasher Detergent on the Spot

1. Add regular dish soap to the dishwasher’s detergent cup. If you find out that you’re out of dishwashing detergent when the dishwasher’s already full, start by adding three or four drops of regular dishwashing soap to the dishwasher’s detergent cup. Any brand or type of dish soap will work as long as it’s a liquid.^[1]
   
   • If you’re cleaning a particularly dirty load of dishes, you may want to bump the soap up to four or five drops.
2. Fill the cup with baking soda. After you’ve placed the dish soap in the washer’s detergent cup, add baking soda. You’ll want to pour enough baking soda into the detergent cup to fill it up approximately ⅔ full.^[2]
   
   • To avoid spilling baking soda all over the interior of the dishwasher, use a spoon to carefully fill the detergent cup rather than pouring the baking soda straight from the box.
3. Top off the cup with salt. Once the dish soap and baking soda are in the detergent cup, reach for a container of regular table salt. Add enough salt to the dish soap and baking soda mixture to completely fill the detergent cup.^[3]
   
   • If you only have sea or kosher salt, you can substitute either for the table salt.
4. Run the dishwasher as you normally would. When you’ve completely filled the detergent cup with the mixture, close the compartment. Set and run your dishwasher as you usually do, and when the cycle is done, you’ll have clean, sparkling dishes without any suds overflow.^[4]
   
   • Not only is this dishwasher detergent easy to make, it’s cheaper than store-bought versions. Most people usually have dish soap, baking soda, and salt in their kitchen, so it’s a convenient alternative to the usual dishwasher detergent.

[Edit]Mixing Up Borax-Based Dishwasher Detergent

1. Combine the borax, washing soda, citric acid, and kosher salt. Add 1 cup (237 g) of borax, 1 cup (237 g) of washing soda, ½ cup (118. 5 g) of citric acid, and ½ cup (124 g) of kosher salt in a large bowl or pot. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until it is well blended.^[5]
   
   • Borax is a natural mineral that is often used in cleaning products. You can find it at most grocery and big box stores in the aisle where laundry or cleaning products are sold.
   • Washing soda is a water-soluble sodium salt of carbonic acid that works as a natural cleaner or cleaning booster. You can find it at many grocery and big box stores in the laundry or cleaning products aisle. If you can’t find it locally, it’s also available at online stores.
   • Citric acid is a natural compound found in citrus fruits that is an ideal disinfectant in cleaning products. You can find it in many grocery stores where canning or brewing supplies are sold, or at health food stores and pharmacies.
2. Place in a jar or jug with a lid. Once the detergent mixture is fully combined, transfer it from the bowl or pot to a jar or jug with an airtight lid. To avoid spilling the detergent all over your work surface, you may find it easier to pour the mixture into the container with a funnel.^[6]
   
   • The detergent may clump if it’s exposed to moisture, so try to keep in a cool, dark closet or pantry with low humidity.
3. Fill the detergent cup in your dishwasher with the mixture. When you’re ready to wash a load of dishes, take 1 tablespoon (15 g) of the detergent mixture and place it in the detergent cup in your dishwasher. Run the dishwasher as you normally would.^[7]
   
   • The recipe should make enough detergent for 48 loads of dishes.

[Edit]Creating Borax-Free Dishwasher Detergent

1. Mix the citric acid, washing soda, baking soda, and sea salt. Combine 1 ½ cups (355.5 g) of citric acid, 1 ½ cups (355.5 g) of washing soda, ½ cup (209 g) of baking soda, and ½ cup (130 g) of sea salt in a large bowl or pot. Stir the mixture so all of the ingredients are well combined.^[8]
   
   • If you don’t have sea salt, you can substitute kosher salt.
2. Place the mixture in a jar. When the detergent ingredients are fully mixed, carefully transfer it to a jar or other container. Make sure to choose a container with an airtight lid because the borax-free detergent is especially prone to clumping when exposed to high humidity.^[9]
   
   • If you live in an area with high humidity, place 2 tablespoons (30 g) of powdered bentonite clay inside a piece of cheesecloth or pantyhose. Secure the fabric so the clay won’t spill out, and throw the packaged clay into your container of detergent. The clay will absorb the excess moisture so the detergent doesn’t clump.
3. Use the detergent mixture as you would premade detergent. When you need to wash a load of dishes, place 1 tablespoon (15 g) of the detergent mixture in the dishwasher’s detergent cup. Set the dishwasher as you normally would, and allow the cycle to run.^[10]
   

[Edit]Forming Homemade Dishwasher Tabs

1. Combine all of the ingredients in a bowl. In a large bowl or pot, mix together 2 cups (474 g) of washing soda, 2 cups (474 g) of borax, ½ cup (124 g) kosher salt or epsom salt, ½ cup (129 ml) of vinegar, and 15 to 20 drops lemon essential oil. Stir the mixture with a spoon until it begins to clump together.^[11]
   
   • You can substitute baking soda for the washing soda.
   • When you mix in the vinegar, there may be some slight fizzing. That is normal.
2. Fill two ice cube trays with the mixture. Once the mixture is fully mixed and clumped together, transfer it to two ice cube trays. Load the mixture into the compartments, pressing down on it to create tightly packed cubes.^[12]
   
   • If you pack the trays the right way, you’ll use up all of the detergent mixture.
3. Allow the tabs to dry for a day. The tabs need to dry so they’re fully hard before you use them. Place the trays in a dry, sunny area, and let them dry for at least 24 hours.^[13]
   
4. Store the tabs in an airtight container. When the tabs are dry, carefully remove them from the ice cube trays. Place them in a jar or other container with a lid, and keep them in a cool, dry location.^[14]
   
   • Make sure that the lid fits tightly on the jar that’s holding the detergent tabs. You want the container to be airtight.
5. Use one tab per dishwasher load. When you’re ready to wash some dishes, take one tab from the jar and place it in the dishwasher’s detergent cup. Run your dishwasher as you normally would for a load of clean dishes.^[15]
   
   • If you’re washing a particularly dirty load of dishes, you can add three drops of dishwashing liquid into the detergent cup with the tab to boost the cleaning power.

[Edit]Tips

• Making your own dishwasher detergent is a good way to ensure that you’re using all-natural, non-toxic products.
• Homemade dishwasher soap is cheaper than store-bought versions, so it’s ideal option if you’re on a budget.

[Edit]Things You’ll Need

Borax-Based Dishwasher Detergent

• A large bowl
• A wooden spoon
• An airtight jar or jug for storage

Borax-Free Dishwasher Detergent

• A large bowl
• A wooden spoon
• An airtight jar or jug for storage

Dishwasher Tabs

• A large bowl
• A wooden spoon
• Two ice cube trays
• An airtight container for storage

[Edit]References

1. ↑ http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/11/03/diy-dishwasher-soap_n_6087290.html
2. ↑ http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/11/03/diy-dishwasher-soap_n_6087290.html
3. ↑ http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/11/03/diy-dishwasher-soap_n_6087290.html
4. ↑ http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/11/03/diy-dishwasher-soap_n_6087290.html
5. ↑ https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/cleaning-decluttering/which-homemade-dishwasher-soap-recipe-best/
6. ↑ https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/cleaning-decluttering/which-homemade-dishwasher-soap-recipe-best/
7. ↑ https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/cleaning-decluttering/which-homemade-dishwasher-soap-recipe-best/
8. ↑ http://www.thankyourbody.com/all-natural-diy-borax-free-dish-detergent/
9. ↑ http://www.thankyourbody.com/all-natural-diy-borax-free-dish-detergent/
10. ↑ http://www.thankyourbody.com/all-natural-diy-borax-free-dish-detergent/
11. ↑ http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/2013/04/make-your-own-dishwasher-detergent-tabs.html
12. ↑ http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/2013/04/make-your-own-dishwasher-detergent-tabs.html
13. ↑ http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/2013/04/make-your-own-dishwasher-detergent-tabs.html
14. ↑ http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/2013/04/make-your-own-dishwasher-detergent-tabs.html
15. ↑ http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/2013/04/make-your-own-dishwasher-detergent-tabs.html