Best Grooming Tool is the Least Expensive

By now, you probably guessed that Editor Cat is my sidekick. And I enjoy taking good care of her.

On May 21st, 2014, I published an in-depth Paw Mane Fin article called Hairballs in Cats: Prevention, Safe Remedies, and Warnings. In it, I shared a video of Editor Cat (Kady) trying out five different grooming tools.

When it comes to hairballs (trichobezoars), prevention is key. It's like brushing your teeth.

It's been close to 20 years that I've relied on this tool – a shedding blade – for three rescue cats (so far). I'm pretty sure my man-servant purchased it from Wahl® Canada, but he can't be sure. (Shows you how much I rely on him to fetch me this and that).

Take a peek at this product in action:

Fortunately, I found several shedding blades on Amazon. Here is the link to the Wahl® Home Pet Double-sided Shedding Blade (which I believe is the closest match). 

What impressed me about this Amazon product page is the handy chart (at the bottom) which shows six types of fur and the recommended grooming tool. I know shedding blades were designed for horses and dogs (initially) but they work wonders on long-haired cats too.

Bodum® French Press vs. $10 French Press

Recently, Editor Cat reminded me to tell coffee lovers to only purchase a Bodum® French press coffee maker. And she made some valid points.

Comparing a Bodum® French press to a $10 French press / © 2016 RoseWrites

Last year, we tried out a $10 French press and soon discovered how important top quality stainless steel is (along with good design).

In fact, the American Culinary Institute named Bodum® the "Best French Press Coffee Maker" in 2004. What impresses me the most is the durability of Bodum® coffee makers (I had one for over 20 years). And for safety, Bodum® can't be beat – their lids have a patented locking system.

When I checked out the Best French Press Coffee Maker Picks 2016, my Bodum® Chambord® placed third. The first place French press had a lovely design, but I was leery of the plastic housing for the carafe part. You'll see why in my video (shown next). The press that placed second uses a double screen (which may be more work to clean, I don't know).

To be fair, I always use coarsely ground coffee beans, so I've never had a problem with coffee grounds getting into my cup. But for those of you who sneak in a little "regular" grind when you are getting low on coffee beans, you might want to consider the SterlingPro French press coffee maker. 

I have never tried a SterlingPro French press coffee maker, but it looks almost exactly like a Bodum® French press.

Still, if you have anything that crawls at your feet (pets or kids), I feel safety is more important than stylish designs or double screens. 

Bottom line: Editor Cat gives the Bodum® Chambord® French press coffee maker four paws up because of its record for safety and durability.

If you have any questions about it, feel free to ask. [And no, this wasn't a paid endorsement. Bodum® is simply a product line that has served me well for over 20 years.]

Rubbermaid's Clear Countertop Mat Saved My Kitchen

For over 11 years, I've been using (and recommending) the same clear Rubbermaid drainboard to friends and family.

Rubbermaid drainboard protects kitchen counter seams / © 2016 RoseWrites

Water that pools around sinks or at the seams of countertops will eventually find its way into tiny crevices. Over time, you might end up with irreparable water damage and sometimes even mold. This is a health hazard. Not to mention the cost of having to replace your entire kitchen counter and possibly the cabinets underneath. 

Even if you use a dishwasher, there are times you'll need a drainboard. My parents always had a plain white mat but I prefer a clear one that shows the beauty of my countertop. Plus, I don't feel like I need to "hide" it somewhere out of sight.

In my comedic YouTube rant titled RoseWrites on Kitchen Counters (shown next) you can see my Rubbermaid mat and how it protects the corner seam of my countertop. If you only wish to see the drainboard, scroll over to the 3:30 mark:

Just a few more points about my Rubbermaid drainboard:

• Rubbermaid is a name I trust, the company has been around for almost 80 years.
• Rubbermaid drainboards are made with Microban antimicrobial product protection (that won't wear off). This inhibits the growth of bacteria and makes it resistant to stains and odours.
• Rubbermaid drainboards come in two sizes; small (14.38" x 15.38" x 1.3") and large (18" x 14.7" x 1.3"). They are available in four colours: clear, white, red, and black. And, they are made in the USA.

If you have any questions about it, feel free to ask me. [And no, this wasn't a paid endorsement. It's simply a product that has served me well for over a decade.]