Opening your fridge only to be hit with a foul smell can be an unpleasant experience. What causes these unpleasant odors in your refrigerator? Typically, forgotten leftovers, food spills, and rotten produce are the main culprits. Fortunately, a few simple home remedies can help you reclaim your fridge as a fresh and odor-free zone. Let’s explore the causes of these unwanted smells and discover how to keep your refrigerator and freezer smelling delightful. Reasons for Bad Odors in Refrigerators and Freezers Spoiled Food The most common cause of bad smells in a fridge is decomposing food. Forgotten leftovers and expired items, especially fruits and vegetables, can rot and emit strong, foul smells. Regularly checking and disposing of expired foods is essential to prevent these situations. Spills and Stains Leaked liquids from food containers or packages, such as soups, broths, and juices, can seep into refrigerator shelves, creating persistent odors. These spills can leave behind stains that, if not promptly and thoroughly cleaned, produce bad smells over time. Bacterial growth in these spills also contributes to unpleasant odors. Regular cleaning and prompt attention to spills can prevent these issues. Read more: Bug-free Home: How to get rid of insects indoors Improper Storage Unsealed food allows odors to permeate the refrigerator. Strong-smelling foods, such as fish, garlic, and onions, can release potent smells if not kept in airtight containers. These odors can transfer to other items in the fridge. Proper storage helps contain these odors and keeps the refrigerator smelling fresh. Dirty or Clogged Drains Refrigerators often have drain holes that can become clogged with food particles and debris, leading to musty or sour smells. Additionally, condensation drains can harbor bacteria and mold if not regularly cleaned, contributing to unpleasant odors. Regular maintenance of these drains is crucial to prevent such issues. Mold and Mildew Excess moisture from humidity or leaks can lead to mold and mildew growth, emitting a musty odor. Mold can thrive in hidden areas, such as under shelves or in the lining of door seals. Regularly checking and drying these spots helps prevent these unpleasant smells. Read more: Top 10 Bathroom Plants to grow in humid environment of shower Faulty Appliance Parts Problems with the defrost system can cause ice buildup, trapping and intensifying odors. Additionally, malfunctioning filters in some refrigerators, if not replaced regularly, can become sources of bad smells. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of filters can help prevent these issues.

Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common yet uncomfortable and often embarrassing problem that can affect anyone. While it can stem from various causes, understanding and addressing these issues can help you maintain fresh breath. This article explores natural solutions to keep your breath fresh and your confidence high. Embrace these home remedies to enjoy fresh, pleasant breath every day! Common Causes of Bad Breath Poor Oral Hygiene Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of bad breath globally. Inadequate brushing and flossing can leave food particles in the mouth, which bacteria break down, causing unpleasant odors. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, can build up if teeth are not brushed regularly, contributing significantly to bad breath. Certain Foods and Drinks Certain foods, such as garlic, onions, and spices, have strong odors that can linger in the mouth. Beverages like coffee and alcohol can also contribute to bad breath. Read more: How to Keep Your Skin Healthy During Monsoon Dry Mouth Saliva helps cleanse the mouth by neutralizing acids produced by plaque and washing away dead cells that accumulate on the tongue, gums, and cheeks. When saliva production is reduced, these cells break down and result in bad breath. Conditions like xerostomia (dry mouth) can exacerbate this issue. Tobacco Products Smoking and the use of other tobacco products can leave chemicals that cause a persistent odor. Tobacco also affects oral health, contributing to gum disease and other dental issues that can cause bad breath. Medical Conditions Several medical conditions can contribute to bad breath, including: - Respiratory infections - Gastrointestinal problems - Diabetes - Liver or kidney disease. Read more: Circadian Rhythm: How to Reset the Biological Master Clock Dental Issues Gum disease, cavities, and oral infections can all contribute to bad breath. Bacteria that accumulate in cavities or pockets formed by gum disease can produce foul-smelling odors. Medications Certain medications can cause dry mouth, leading to bad breath. Additionally, some medications break down in the body to release chemicals that can be carried on your breath. Mouth, Nose, and Throat Conditions Infections or chronic inflammation in the nose, sinuses, or throat, which can contribute to postnasal drip, can also result in bad breath. Read more: What is Autism spectrum disorder? Why is Autism Awareness Important? Poor Diet Low-carb diets can cause a condition called ketosis, which produces fruity-smelling breath due to the breakdown of fats in the body. Home Remedies for Bad Breath Practice Good Oral Hygiene Maintaining solid oral hygiene is crucial for fresh breath. Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes. Clean your tongue daily using a tongue scraper or toothbrush to remove bacteria and food particles. Additionally, flossing daily is necessary to eliminate food particles and plaque between teeth, preventing bacterial growth and ensuring a clean mouth. Stay Hydrated Dehydration is a major contributor to bad breath. Drinking plenty of water is essential as it helps keep your mouth moist and promotes saliva production. Saliva washes away food particles and bacteria, preventing bad breath. Read more: Cerebral Haemorrhage: Signs, Reasons, Treatment, and Prevention Use a Natural Mouth Rinse Combat bad breath with homemade mouth rinses. For a baking soda rinse, mix a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water; it neutralizes odors and kills bacteria. Alternatively, use an apple cider vinegar rinse by mixing a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water. Both options effectively freshen your breath. Salt Water Rinse This is a simple and effective way to freshen your breath. Mix ½ teaspoon of table salt with a cup of warm water. Swish thoroughly for 30 seconds and spit. The salt helps neutralize acids produced by bacteria and eliminate odor-causing microbes. Chew Fresh Herbs Chewing on fresh herbs like mint (pudina) can help mask bad odors and promote fresh breath. These herbs contain chlorophyll, known for its deodorizing properties, making them effective natural remedies for maintaining pleasant breath. Incorporate these herbs into your daily routine for a fresher, cleaner mouth. Read more: How Does Fat Leave the Body When We Lose Weight? Spice Up Your Breath Certain spices common in Bangladeshi cuisine can be surprisingly helpful. Briefly chew on a clove, fennel seeds, or coriander seeds. These spices have natural antibacterial properties and leave a refreshing taste. Eat Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables Crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples, carrots, and cucumbers can help clean teeth and stimulate saliva production. These foods act as natural toothbrushes, effectively scraping away plaque and food particles, promoting better oral hygiene and fresher breath. Incorporate these healthy snacks into your diet to maintain a cleaner mouth naturally. Use Essential Oils Essential oils with antibacterial properties can help fight bad breath. For instance, add a few drops of peppermint oil to a glass of water and use it as a mouthwash. Clove oil can be used similarly to peppermint oil, providing a natural and effective way to maintain fresh breath and reduce oral bacteria. Read more: Measles: Causes, Symptoms and Prevention Probiotics Probiotics aid in regulating the balance of bacteria within the oral cavity and digestive tract. Probiotic foods like yogurt can promote good bacteria and enhance oral health. Include yogurt in your diet to benefit from its probiotic properties, leading to fresher breath and a healthier mouth. Maintain Regular Dental Check-ups Regular dental appointments play a critical role in preserving oral well-being. Professional cleanings can remove plaque and tartar that you might miss with regular brushing and flossing. Your dentist can also identify any potential issues that are causing bad breath. Additional Tips for Fresh Breath - Avoid sugary foods and drinks - Quit smoking - Chew sugar-free gum - Use a tongue scraper - Stay away from alcohol-based mouthwashes - Regular dental check-ups. Read more: Colon Cancer: Everything You Need to Know Conclusion Bad breath can be a nuisance, but with the right home remedies, you can overcome this issue. Maintaining good oral hygiene, staying hydrated, and using natural remedies can keep your breath fresh and your confidence intact. Remember, if bad breath persists despite trying these remedies, it may be a sign of an underlying health issue. In such cases, it is best to consult a healthcare professional. By addressing the root causes and adopting these natural solutions, you can enjoy fresh, pleasant breath every day.

In recent times, there has been a surge in dengue-related deaths caused by mosquito bites. Mosquitoes, those tiny, buzzing bugs, might seem harmless, but they can be carriers of deadly diseases. To protect yourself and your loved ones from these pesky insects, it is really important to take preventive measures. In this article, we will explore some proven tips to help you avoid mosquito bites. 13 Ways to prevent Mosquito Bites Mosquito Repellent Sprays and Creams Mosquito repellent sprays and creams are your allies in the battle against these bloodthirsty insects. Sprays with DEET or picaridin create a protective barrier when applied to skin and clothing. Creams add an extra layer of defense, especially on exposed areas like the face and neck. Use both to effectively repel mosquitoes and keep those pesky insects at bay. Wear Protective Clothing  Wearing protective clothing is a smart way to avoid mosquito bites. You may opt for long-sleeved shirts and pants, preferably in light colors. Mosquitoes are less attracted to light-colored clothing. By covering up, you create a physical barrier that makes it harder for mosquitoes to reach your skin. Read more: How to Protect Babies and Children from Dengue Fever Avoid Peak Mosquito Activity  Avoiding peak mosquito activity hours is a practical way to minimize your risk of bites. Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk. If possible, stay indoors during these times or take extra precautions when you need to be outside. By doing so, you reduce your exposure to these bloodsucking pests. Install Window Screens  Installing window screens is a simple yet effective measure to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. These screens act as a barrier, keeping mosquitoes out while allowing fresh air to flow in. By ensuring your windows and doors have screens in place, you can enjoy a mosquito-free indoor environment, especially during the warmer months. Maintain a Mosquito-Free Yard A mosquito-free yard starts with proactive steps. It is best to regularly clean your yard by removing debris and items that can collect stagnant water, like old tires or buckets. You need to ensure trash cans are tightly sealed to prevent them from becoming mosquito breeding grounds.  Additionally, you should be concerned about emptying containers that collect rainwater, such as flower pots and bird baths, to eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites. By doing so, you create an environment that's less welcoming to these disease-carrying insects. Read more: Best Foods to Increase Platelets in Dengue Fever Use Mosquito Nets  Using mosquito nets is a practical solution, especially when sleeping outdoors. Mosquito nets create a physical barrier between you and mosquitoes protecting you throughout the night. You have to simply suspend the netting over your sleeping area to keep those insects at bay, ensuring a peaceful and bite-free night's sleep.

In the midst of a recent dengue outbreak, households have become battlegrounds against pesky mosquitoes. Though chemical repellents may kill these disease-carrying insects, it may also create diverse health issues. Many seek natural ways to keep mosquitoes away from home. Let’s take a look into some practical methods to control the mosquito menace.  Top 10 Natural Ways to Get Rid of Mosquitoes at Home Remove Standing Water Mosquitoes breed in stagnant or standing water, so eliminating any sources of standing water around your home is crucial. Regularly empty and clean water containers, flower pots, bird baths, and gutters to prevent mosquito larvae from developing. Even small amounts of water, such as puddles or water collected in discarded items, can serve as breeding grounds. By removing standing water, you can significantly reduce the mosquito population around your home. Necessary Precautions - Wear protective clothing and gloves when handling stagnant water to prevent contact with mosquito larvae or bacteria. - Be cautious when removing water from areas with potential mosquito breeding sites, such as gutters, to avoid falling or injuring yourself. Read more: How to get rid of cockroaches, bugs at home without using insecticide Use Mosquito-Repelling Outdoor Fans and Lighting Mosquito-repelling outdoor fans work by creating a strong breeze that makes it difficult for mosquitoes to fly. Place these fans strategically in outdoor areas to create a protective air current. Mosquito-repelling outdoor lighting utilizes yellow or LED lights that are less attractive to mosquitoes. Install these lights in outdoor spaces to deter mosquitoes from gathering around. Necessary Precautions - Ensure the outdoor fans are placed in areas where you and your family can enjoy the breeze while minimizing the risk of fan-related accidents. - When using mosquito-repelling outdoor lighting, make sure it doesn't compromise visibility or safety in the area. Also, make sure that it is easy for you to repair any errors. It is best to seek the assistance of a skilled technician for both fans and lights like these. Read more: Exploring Dengue Diagnosis: The Essential Tests for Detecting the Virus Install Window Screens Keep mosquitoes out of your home by installing window screens, which serve as a formidable barrier against unwanted intrusion. Ensure that all windows and doors have properly fitted screens without any holes or gaps. Screens allow fresh air to circulate while keeping mosquitoes and other insects outside. It is especially important to keep windows and doors screened during evenings and early mornings when mosquitoes are most active. Necessary Precautions Regularly inspect window screens and repair any damages or holes promptly. Clean screens regularly to remove debris or dust that can obstruct airflow. Use Netting on Windows and Doors This is an effective natural method to keep mosquitoes out of your home. The intricately woven netting forms a fortress, halting the invasion of mosquitoes while permitting the gentle, invigorating breeze. It is crucial to ensure the netting is properly installed and without any gaps or holes to maximize its effectiveness. Read more: Why do Mosquitoes bite me so much? Necessary Precautions - Regularly inspect the netting for any damages or holes and promptly repair or replace them to maintain its integrity. - Keep doors and windows closed when the netting is not in use to prevent mosquitoes from sneaking in through other openings.

When a child is coughing constantly, it is a thing of concern for the parents. Usually, a child's cough is nothing to worry about as it can be caused by a common cold that happens by changes in seasons and weather. However, try to avoid a cough suppressant for your kids without consulting a doctor, as it is not safe for them. Instead, you can try some safe, natural home remedies for cough for children. These tips can help a sick child feel relaxed. 11 Ways to Treat Your Kid’s Cough Naturally Honey According to research honey is better than medicine for relieving coughs. Honey also helps a sick kid sleep better. However, honey is safe and better for children aged 1 and older. Kids also love to take honey as it tastes good. Dark honey like buckwheat works best because it's higher in antioxidants.  But if it becomes difficult to find buckwheat honey, you can take any natural honey. Natural honey is also great for its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can go a long way in soothing a sore throat.  Remember, you need to give ½  teaspoon to children who are ages 1 to 5 years and 1 teaspoon to kids ages 6 to 11. If your child won't love to take honey directly, you can add it to warm water, herbal tea, or warm milk. But make sure you avoid this remedy for kids under 1. Read More: Motivating Kids to Study, Do Homework, Get Good Grades: Know Secret Ways Chicken Noodle Soup It is an old folk remedy: Studies have shown that chicken soup has anti-inflammatory elements and its warm temperature can soothe sore throats. Besides,  it acts as a vaporizer and helps to release mucus in the nasal passages which ultimately can relieve a stuffy nose. You will get the magic in the soup that comes from the perfect balance of electrolytes, which help keep your kids hydrated. Moreover, the protein and carbohydrates available in chicken soup are a perfect meal for anyone who feels icky. Your lovely kids can feel like a warm hug with a bowl of chicken soup.  Stay Hydrated Make sure the kid drinks enough water to help prevent dehydration. Warm liquids is an excellent cough remedy for toddler because they thin out mucus and makes it easier to cough up. Besides, liquids pacify a raw throat and keep your little one hydrated and happy. Read More: Teaching Young Kids Household Chores: 10 Easy Steps Researchers at the Common Cold Center at Cardiff University have shown that hot drinks are the most effective at soothing cold and flu symptoms. Hot drinks may relieve symptoms including runny nose, cough, sneezing, sore throat, chills, and fatigue. On the contrary, a warm or room temperature drink had fewer benefits they can relieve a runny nose, coughing, and a sore throat temporarily. However, cold drinks are also helpful because they can numb a sore throat while helping to hydrate at the same time. But avoid drinking ice-cold juice as they are highly acidic the acidity increase discomfort in the throat.  Cool-mist humidifier You can keep a cool-mist humidifier in your kid’s room to help unfasten chest and nasal congestion. It is a great remedy for nighttime coughing. USA’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says a cool air humidifier is used unitedly with other treatments like rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and consuming honey. Read More: Dyslexia: How to help kids with this learning disability When other properties won't cure the cause, a humidifier will surely help your little one feel a little better, especially at night when coughing may be worse. Salt water gargle One of the most natural and simplest kid’s cough remedies is salt water gargle. Just mix a half teaspoon of salt with eight ounces of water, then give your child to gargle the solution. It eases the throat irritation that often comes with coughing. But this should only be given to older kids.  Salt water helps the tissue in the upper respiratory tract tend to become inflamed from excess mucus and fluids, causing coughing and soreness. 

As winter is approaching, many people are experiencing conditions like sore throat and scratchy throat. It causes constant itchy feelings, irritation, and difficulty in swallowing. Don’t worry! Some drinks can relieve the scratchy, and painful feelings. Let’s take a look at home remedies that kills a sore throat fast. 7 Healthy Drinks to Treat Sore Throat Warm honey-lemon water  Warm water can help settle a sore throat. Hot water is special to soothe a sore throat and can help provide relief for cough, and runny nose.  However, warm water with lemon may be especially useful as it can add a small extra dose of vitamin C to pacify your sore throat. Vitamin C is great to boost the immune system and help you overcome colds.  Read Food, Drinks during Dengue: What to consume, what to avoid. Additionally, you can add honey with your warm lemon water to treat a sore throat and cough. A small 2017 study found that honey helps to speed up the recovery of a sore throat as honey has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.  Ginger tea  Traditionally, people use ginger tea to calm a sore throat. A 2013 study has shown that fresh ginger tea might help protect you from the respiratory syncytial virus — a highly infectious virus that commonly affects young children.  Besides, ginger is loaded with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. If you drink ginger tea in the morning and before going to sleep, it soothes your sore throat.  Read Masala Tea Health Benefits: How Can It Improve Your Immunity Moreover, ginger tea provides relief from motion sickness and alleviates nausea from morning sickness or chemotherapy. Ginger tea can also manage blood pressure and support heart health. It is also excellent to manage weight and blood sugar levels. The properties of ginger can fight against pain, inflammation, and cancer. Chamomile tea  If you don’t like ginger tea, you can take chamomile tea, which is made from dried Matricaria flowers and is loaded with various healing properties. Research shows that chamomile tea can reduce inflammation in the throat.  Additionally, Chamomile tea is generally caffeine-free and so it is excellent to promote relaxation and help you sleep. Proper and adequate sleep boost your immune system and help you quick recovery from illness.  Read Health benefits of Chamomile Tea Plus, chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory properties which minimize swelling and also repair tissues and reduce a cough.  Peppermint tea You can also take peppermint tea which is another warm beverage to ease sore throat symptoms. Peppermint tea contains spearmint which has anti-inflammatory effects to reduce swelling and soothe a sore throat.  Besides, if you can inhale the steam from peppermint tea, it can treat other symptoms such as nasal congestion, and help you to breathe better.  Read 7 Yummy Coffee Recipes to Try at Home without Coffee Maker Warm soup You can take chicken noodle warm soup which is considered as is a classic home remedy for common illnesses. Any kind of warm soup can be a great way to soothe your sore throat and get some key nutrients when you're feeling sick. Chicken broth has fatty acids and protein. Protein and fatty acids help your body build and repair healthy muscle, bone, skin, and blood cells.  Selenium that is available in chicken broth helps prevent and manage cardiovascular diseases and complications, including strokes, and high cholesterol. Read Healthy Winter Soup Ideas and Recipes to Help You Get Through the Cold Weather Moreover, chicken broth is enriched with vitamins and minerals, which are useful against common ailments like the common cold, the flu, and food poisoning.  Smoothie  When you're sick, you might experience a decreased appetite that can make it more difficult to get all the nutrients your body needs to fight off an illness.  So, you need a nutrient-packed smoothie as it is made with fruits and vegetables that are loaded with antioxidants — molecules to boost our immune system.  Read Child-friendly Winter Drinks to Keep Your Family Healthy, Warm, and Cozy Some antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables to make your smoothies: Blueberries, Strawberries, Mangoes, Kale, Spinach Turmeric milk Turmeric has powerful antioxidant properties to heal wounds. The properties of turmeric also fight off several infections like colds and sore throats. If you can drink hot turmeric tea or milk for a sore throat, you can cure your sore throat within 1-2 days.  Turmeric milk is anti-inflammatory also and contains the compound curcumin which boosts immunity. Turmeric also helps to reduce the risk of heart disease and improves digestion. It is also good for our skin and improves bone health.  Read 7 Healthy Warm Drinks to Stay Warm This Winter Bottom Line  Sore throats are common and natural, especially during cold and flu season and winter season. While you are experiencing this condition, it is important to provide your body with the nutrients it needs to fight the infection. You can try homemade healing drinks to soothe your throat pain. So far, we have discussed 7 sore throat remedies to try at home. Hope it helps!