Sprouting lentils for chicken feed

Sprouting lentils for chicken feed

Welcome to my guide on sprouting lentils for chicken feed. As backyard chicken keepers, we are constantly seeking ways to provide our feathered friends with a healthy and balanced diet. One such option gaining popularity is sprouted lentils, which offer numerous benefits for the overall health and well-being of chickens. In this article, I will explain the advantages of incorporating sprouted lentils into a chicken's diet, discuss the selection process for suitable lentils, provide a step-by-step guide to sprouting lentils, and offer tips on feeding and monitoring. Whether you are looking to optimize your chicken's nutrition or simply diversify their diet, sprouted lentils may be the solution you've been searching for.

1. Introduction to sprouting lentils for chicken feed

Understanding the nutritional needs of chickens

Chickens are like the Olympians of the animal kingdom; they need a solid and well-balanced diet to perform at their best. Just like athletes need protein to build their muscles, chickens need quality nutrition to lay those eggs and strut their stuff in the farmyard. So, it's essential to understand their nutritional needs and provide them with the necessary fuel to keep them clucking happily.

Exploring alternative feed options

Ditching the standard chicken feed and trying out alternative options doesn't mean you're betraying your feathered friends. In fact, it can be a great way to enhance their diet and boost their health. One such alternative is sprouted lentils, and let me tell you, it's not just for the hipster chickens out there. Sprouted lentils can provide a nutritious and cost-effective option for your flock while adding a little pizzazz to their daily grub.

2. Benefits of sprouted lentils as chicken feed

Nutritional advantages of sprouted lentils

Sprouted lentils are like the superheroes of chicken feed. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can give your cluckers a nutritional boost. These tiny powerhouses contain high levels of protein, calcium, and iron—all essential for healthy egg production and strong bones. Plus, they are low in fat, making them an excellent choice for those chickens watching their waistlines.

Improved digestion and absorption of nutrients

Not only do sprouted lentils provide a nutrient-packed meal for your chickens, but they also aid in digestion. The sprouting process helps break down complex carbohydrates and increases enzyme activity, making it easier for your feathered friends to digest and absorb the nutrients. This means they'll be getting the most out of their feed, and you'll have even happier, healthier hens strutting around the coop.

3. Selecting the right lentils for sprouting

Choosing lentil varieties suitable for sprouting

When it comes to sprouting lentils for chicken feed, not all varieties are created equal. Some lentils are more suitable for sprouting than others, so it's essential to choose the right ones. Look for lentils with a high germination rate, such as green or brown lentils, as they tend to sprout well. Avoid split or crushed lentils, as they may not yield the desired results. Remember, we want happy chickens, not disappointed ones.

Considerations for organic and non-GMO options

If you're all about the organic and non-GMO lifestyle, there's good news for you and your chickens. You can find organic and non-GMO lentils that are perfect for sprouting. Opting for these options ensures that the feed you're providing your chickens is free from any genetically modified organisms or synthetic pesticides. After all, healthy chickens deserve healthy grub.

4. A step-by-step guide to sprouting lentils for chickens

Soaking lentils for optimal sprouting

To get those lentils in tip-top sprouting shape, start by soaking them. Rinse your chosen lentils thoroughly and transfer them to a bowl or container. Add enough water to cover the lentils completely, and let them soak for around 8 to 12 hours. Remember, patience is a virtue. You can use this time to catch up on your favorite chicken reality TV shows. 😆😉😁

Rinsing and draining techniques for successful sprouting

Once the lentils have had their beauty sleep in the water, it's time to rinse and drain them. Rinse them thoroughly with clean water and drain off any excess liquid. You can use a colander or a strainer to help with this process. Make sure to rinse and drain the lentils twice a day to keep them clean and happy. Think of it as giving them a refreshing shower twice a day. Who doesn't love a clean, sprouting lentil?

Providing the right environment for sprouting

Sprouting lentils need a cozy and warm environment to work their magic. Find a suitable container, like a tray or a jar, and line it with a damp paper towel or a sprouting mat. Spread the soaked lentils evenly across the surface and cover them with a breathable cloth. Keep the container in a warm spot, away from direct sunlight, and watch the magic happen. Sprouts should start appearing within a couple of days. It's like a mini-garden in your kitchen!

So, there you have it—a sprouting adventure fit for your cluckers. With sprouted lentils as part of their diet, your chickens will be strutting, laying, and clucking their way to healthy bliss. Plus, they'll appreciate the variety in their daily meals. Who wouldn't want a little gourmet treat every now and then? So go on, give sprouting lentils a shot, and let your chickens feast like the connoisseurs they are.

5. Incorporating sprouted lentils into a chicken's diet

Okay, so you've decided to take the plunge and introduce sprouted lentils into your feathered friends' diet. Good for you, you adventurous chicken parent! But how exactly do you go about it?

The gradual introduction of sprouted lentils

Just like humans, chickens need time to adjust to new foods. Start by offering a small amount of sprouted lentils alongside their regular feed. Watch closely to see how they react. Are they pecking at it with enthusiasm or giving it the stink-eye? If it's the latter, don't be discouraged. Chickens can be picky eaters, just like that one friend who only eats kale. Keep offering sprouted lentils in small amounts, and they may eventually come around.

Combining sprouted lentils with other feed sources

Variety is the spice of life, even for chickens. Mix up their diet by combining sprouted lentils with other feed sources like grains, pellets, or kitchen scraps. This will ensure they get a well-rounded meal and prevent them from turning into lentil-only enthusiasts. Remember, moderation is key.

Adjusting portion sizes according to the flock's needs

Every chicken is unique, just like a snowflake or a fingerprint. Some chickens may devour sprouted lentils like they're going out of style, while others may take a more leisurely approach. Observe how much they eat and adjust the portion sizes accordingly. You want to ensure they have enough to satisfy their nutritional needs, but not so much that they start strutting around like little lentil-filled balloons. Nobody wants that.

6. Monitoring and adjusting the sprouted lentil feeding regimen

Observing the chickens' response to sprouted lentils

It's time to put on your detective hat and channel your inner Sherlock Holmes. Pay close attention to how your chickens react to sprouted lentils. Are they gobbling them up with gusto or giving you the side-eye like you've just served them a plate of Brussels sprouts? Adjust your approach accordingly. You may need to play around with the amount, frequency, or even presentation (maybe they prefer lentils on a silver platter?). Your chickens will give you subtle clues, so listen to their clucks.

Monitoring the quantity and quality of sprouted lentils

Okay, so now you're a sprouting pro. But don't get too cocky (pun intended). Keep an eye on the quantity and quality of sprouted lentils you're producing. Make sure they're sprouting evenly and not turning into a science experiment gone wrong. Nobody wants to feed their chickens moldy lentils. Periodically check the sprouting process and make sure everything is looking fresh and sprightly.

Making necessary adjustments to the feeding schedule

Life is all about balance, and that includes your chickens' feeding schedule. Keep an eye on their overall health and adjust the sprouted lentil feeding regimen accordingly. If they start looking sluggish or their egg production takes a nosedive, it might be time to reevaluate. Remember, you're the captain of this chicken ship, so steer them in the right direction.

7. Potential challenges and troubleshooting tips for sprouting lentils

Common issues with sprouting lentils and their solutions

Let's face it, sprouting lentils isn't always a walk in the park. You may encounter some bumps along the way. But fear not, because I'm here to help. Common issues like mold, wilting, or sprouts that refuse to sprout can be solved with a little tender, loving care. Adjust your sprouting conditions, rinse more frequently, or seek advice from your local chicken enthusiast group. Remember, you're not alone on this sprouting adventure.

Preventing mold and bacterial growth

Mold and bacteria are like the party crashers of the sprouting world. They show up uninvited and ruin the fun. But there are ways to keep them at bay. Make sure your sprouting containers are clean and well-ventilated. Rinse your lentils frequently to remove excess moisture and prevent the growth of unwanted guests. And if all else fails, blast some lively music to give your sprouts that lively party atmosphere. Just kidding, that won't really help, but it's worth a shot, right?

Addressing potential digestive issues in chickens

Okay, let's talk about digestion. It's not the most glamorous topic, but it's important. Some chickens may experience digestive issues when introduced to sprouted lentils. It's like them trying to adjust to a new diet, and, let's face it, we've all been there. If you notice any signs of discomfort or irregular droppings, take a step back and reassess. Maybe the sprouted lentils need some extra soaking time or a different sprouting method. Your chickens' tummies will thank you.

8. Conclusion and final thoughts on sprouted lentils for chicken feed

Congratulations! You've made it through the sprouted lentil adventure! By incorporating sprouted lentils into your chickens' diet, you're giving them a healthy and nutritious treat. Remember to observe and adjust as needed, because chickens are individuals with unique tastes and needs. And when challenges arise, don't lose heart. With a little troubleshooting and a dash of patience, your chickens will be happily clucking away, enjoying their sprouted lentil delights. Happy chicken feeding!

8. Conclusion and final thoughts on sprouted lentils for chicken feed

In conclusion, sprouted lentils can be a valuable addition to a chicken's diet, providing numerous nutritional benefits and promoting optimal health. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily incorporate sprouted lentils into your flock's feeding regimen. Remember to monitor your chickens' responses and make adjustments as needed. With proper care and attention, sprouted lentils can contribute to the overall well-being and vitality of your feathered friends. So why not give it a try and see the positive impact it has on your chickens? Happy sprouting!

FAQs

1. Can all chicken breeds consume sprouted lentils?

Yes, sprouted lentils can be fed to chickens of all breeds. However, it is important to introduce them gradually and monitor their responses. Some chickens may take time to adjust to the new feed, so it's essential to observe their digestion and overall health during the transition.

2. Can I use any type of lentil for sprouting?

While most lentil varieties can be sprouted, it is recommended to choose lentils specifically labeled for sprouting or organic lentils. These are typically free from any chemical treatments that could inhibit sprouting or affect the nutritional value of the sprouts. Avoid using lentils that have been treated with pesticides or other chemicals.

3. How do I prevent mold or bacterial growth when sprouting lentils?

To prevent mold or bacterial growth, it is crucial to ensure proper hygiene throughout the sprouting process. Rinse the lentils thoroughly before soaking, and make sure to drain them well after each rinse. Additionally, provide adequate airflow and avoid excessive moisture accumulation by using well-ventilated sprouting containers or trays.

4. Can sprouted lentils replace the entire diet of my chickens?

No, sprouted lentils should be used as a supplemental feed and not as a complete replacement for a balanced chicken diet. They offer additional nutrients and variety to their diet but should be combined with other feed sources to ensure chickens receive all the necessary nutrients for their overall health and productivity.

Resources:

Ciurescu, Georgeta & Vasilachi, Andreea & Habeanu, Mihaela & Dragomir, Catalin. (2017). Effects of dietary lentil seeds inclusion on performance, carcass characteristics and cecal pH of broiler chickens. Indian Journal of Animal Sciences. 87. 1130-1134. 10.56093/ijans.v87i9.74327.

DeVore, S. and About Shelby DeVoreShelby DeVore is a livestock expert with experience teaching high school agriculture and multiple poultry science teams. Shelby has over 20 years of experience raising poultry for show (2020) 15 things you shouldn’t feed your chickens • insteading, Insteading. Available at: https://insteading.com/blog/what-not-to-feed-chickens/#comments (Accessed: 02 December 2023).

Crow, R. (2022) Can chickens eat lentils? (+ how to sprout them), Chicken & Chicks Info. Available at: https://chickenandchicksinfo.com/can-chickens-eat-lentils/ (Accessed: 02 December 2023).

Homemade liquid soap using old soap bar remnants

Homemade liquid soap using old soap bar remnants

Don't throw away those bars of soap remnants! Making the most out of those piddly soap bar remnants can help you save money. This liquid soap recipe is rather simple to make and the two main ingredients are bars of soap remnants (leftover soap ends) and water. You may add glycerin to the recipe if you'd like. Glycerin will help if you need to add a moisturizer to your liquid soap. However, leave the glycerin out if you're wanting longer shelf stability. I add citrus essential oil as a natural preservative.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of bar soap remnants, chopped into small pieces

• 3 cups of water

• ½ teaspoon of citrus essential oil

Optional ingredients:

• 1-½ teaspoons of glycerin

You'll need to add the glycerin in after you take the soap off from the burner. (I didn't add glycerin to my liquid soap.)

Instructions:

Add three cups of water into a pan that's specifically used for making soap in.

Transfer the pan to a burner, over medium heat. Add the one-half cup of chopped soap remnants into the pan of water. Allow the soap pieces to melt down.

Once all the soap is dissolved, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the essential oil. Allow the soap mixture to sit and cool overnight.

The following day, stir the soap mixture well. Then pour it into your designated soap dispensers.

Note:

If your liquid soap turns out thicker than what you like, transfer it back into the pan, add a bit more water to it, and reheat it once again. Then allow it to cool another twenty-four hours before transferring the liquid soap to your soap dispensers.

Homemade turmeric bar soap

If you have some boring bars of soap, or want to make new soap by using a bar of soap base, then this is a recipe for you. Why add turmeric to bars of homemade soap? Turmeric soap not only helps with skin inflammation, it also helps clear up blemishes that you may have on your skin, because it has antioxidant and antiseptic properties. Plus, this soap helps with dark spots as well as brightens your skin.

Ingredients:

• 1 bar of soap or soap base (any brand)

• About 1-½ cups of water, maybe a little more

• 1-½ teaspoons of turmeric powder

• 1-½ teaspoon of essential citrus oil

• Pan (for melting the soap)

• Soap molds

Other optional ingredients:

• 1-½ teaspoons of glycerin (moisturizer)

• 1 teaspoon of olive oil

• Coffee grounds 

• Other essential oils

• Wild flowers

• Dried herbs

• Oatmeal

Instructions for making the soap:

First, grate or chop the bar of soap finely. Place the soap pieces in a pan that's specifically used for making soap. Pour in a level amount of water, and not more than that (so that it is just level with the soap pieces). Some bars of soap are larger than others, so the difference in the amount of water you'll need will vary.

Place the pan over low to medium heat. Stirring every few minutes, until the soap mixture begins to boil. After about fifteen to twenty minutes, transfer the pan away from the heat. Stir the soap mixture with a large spoon until the liquid becomes smooth and well combined. 

Allow the liquid to cool down before pouring it. It becomes thick and rather goopy when it's ready. (It will take up to about ten or so minutes before it reaches this point.)

Now, add in any essential oils and turmeric. Then begin pouring the liquid into silicone soap molds (or any other molds you prefer using) and do so rather quickly.

If using optional ingredients such as glycerin, olive-oil, coffee grounds, wild flowers, dried herbs, or oatmeal; add and stir any of them into the soap before pouring it into the molds. You'll have to keep stirring the soap base mixture until it becomes thicker, otherwise the add-ins will sink to the bottom of the soap molds. Pour into the molds.

Let your soap sit for about an hour before removing the molds. Then allow your soap to dry for twenty-four hours (at least) before wrapping it in clear cellophane plastic. 

Note:

I don't buy expensive bars of soap base. I purchase cheaper plain bars of soap to melt down to make my turmeric soap bars as well as various other soap bars.

As y'all already know, I repurpose almost everything that can be repurposed and my soap molds are actually recycled from my cat's Friskies wet cat food containers. They make the perfect sized bars of soap for my little hands. My homemade bars of turmeric soap are much bigger and thicker than the hotel complimentary-sized soaps, but they're not quite as large as a regular-sized bar of soap. In actuality, it takes about one hour to unmold my soap bars, but they will need to sit at least twenty-four hours to finish hardening.

I coat the plastic containers with a light coating of olive oil to prevent them from sticking inside the containers. Then, when I am unmolding the soap, I hold the containers upside down and give a little push with my two thumbs on the bottom side of the containers. The soap bars easily eject out.

As always, make use of the items you have: recycle, repurpose, save money, live your best life, and be happy!

Caffeinated coffee soap

Caffeinated coffee soap

Wake up your skin with caffeinated coffee soap, before drinking your cup of Joe. That's right, coffee isn't just for drinking! Today, I will walk you through how I create beautifully molded caffeinated coffee soap. Y'all, this soap makes my skin feel so refreshed and revived after each use and I love it! The soap is invigorating and exfoliating. Plus, it helps tighten and brighten your skin, as it helps to improve blood circulation.

Ingredients:

• ¼ to ½ cup of caffeinated coffee grounds (I use ½ cup in my soap to get a richer coffee color.)

• 1 bar of soap or soap base bar (any brand will do)

• About 1-½ cups of water, plus, maybe a little more (depending on the size of bar soap that you use)

• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder optional

• 1-½ teaspoon of essential cinnamon oil optional

• 1 teaspoon of olive oil

• Pan (for melting the soap)

• Soap molds

Instructions:

First, get your soap molds prepared; set aside.

Now, chop the bar of soap into small pieces. Place the pieces of soap in a pan that's specifically used for making soap. Pour the water into the pan (so it is level with the soap pieces).

Place the pan over medium-low heat. Stir every few minutes, until the soap mixture begins to boil. Watch the pan closely. After about fifteen to twenty minutes, transfer the pan away from the heat. Stir the soap mixture with a spoon until the liquid becomes thick and smooth. 

Allow the liquid to cool for about ten minutes. Now, add the coffee grounds and stir well. Continue stirring for the next several minutes until the soap mixture becomes much gooeier and thicker. The soap mixture will turn a dark coffee color at this point.

Now, add in the cinnamon essential oil, olive oil, and turmeric. Then begin pouring the soap liquid into silicone soap molds.

Allow the soap to harden inside the molds for a few hours before unmolding it and let it sit to finish drying for a couple of days before wrapping it in clear plastic.

Note:

Add one teaspoon of glycerin if you need a moisturizing soap. Do this when you're adding the other ingredients together.

All-natural wood ash liquid detergent

All-natural wood ash liquid detergent

From natural hardwood to burnt ash to all natural liquid detergent. Wood ash can be used for numerous things, such as fertilizer, creating homemade soap, laundry detergent, cleaner, and even toothpaste. Wood ash liquid detergent works beautifully on lifting stains out of your clothing. The detergent can also be used for multiple purposes, such as a tub and shower cleaner, floor cleaner, etc.. Today, I am pulling out my wood ash to create an all-natural laundry detergent booster. Have to tell you guys that this stuff is amazing!

Using wood ash powder

Handling wood ash is messy, it can be abrasive, and it's normally powdery (if your woodstove and fireplace are burning properly) so there's a lot of dust particles involved. So, I suggest always wearing gloves and a face mask while you're working with wood ash.

Wood ash has been used for centuries as a cleaning agent in the form of different soaps, but wood ash can also be used in its natural dry form as a scrubbing cleaner. I know, I just said that wood ash is messy and now I am saying it can be used as an all-natural cleaner. The two statements really don't seem to go together, but yet they actually do. Now, allow me to explain and walk you through how I make homemade wood ash liquid laundry detergent.

So, how can something that's so messy be used to clean stuff? How does it work?

When you combine wood ash with hot water, lye is created. Lye is a natural ingredient in soap-making and laundry detergent. 

When you combine lye, a form of fat, and boiling hot water together, you can make traditional homemade soap. However, to make a liquid detergent that can be used not only for laundry but also for other things, the process is a lot simpler. All you need is wood ash, a couple of containers, a sieve, and some hot water, and time. After the process is complete, you'll end up with a totally clean batch of soapy detergent.

Items you'll need:

• Wood ash

• Hot water

• 2 buckets

• 1 pillow case

• 1 clean empty container, such as an empty, clean laundry detergent bottle, etc.. (Don't store the liquid detergent inside glass containers, I poured some of mine into a glass jar just for presentation so that the liquid could be seen.)

Note:

The amount of ash and water you use, I will leave up to you. However, note that you'll need twice the amount of water as you will the wood ash (ratio is two to one). Example: 2 cups of hot water mixed with 1 cup of wood ash.

Instructions:

In a bucket, add the amount of water to the wood ash (in a 2:1 ratio) that you'll need. This step will separate the potash from the ash. (Potash happens to be the white powder that comes from the ashes of burned wood.)

Once the hot water and wood ash is combined, cover the container, and allow the mixture to sit for a full twenty-four hours, or longer. After the ash wood mixture rests, the liquid will be yellowish at the top with some residues at the bottom.

Next, use a sieve and a coffee filter and pour the liquid into it (over a separate clean container). When you have finished, you will end up with an all-natural detergent and it should feel really slippery. The detergent can be used as a laundry booster, laundry detergent, all-purpose cleaner, dish detergent, etc.. Just make sure after use that you rinse it off well.

To use:

Use the same amount of the wood ash detergent just as you would with any regular detergents. (About ¾ cup for each load of laundry.) The detergent only keeps for one month. Store it in a plastic container. I used an old glass jar just to show y'all what it looks like when it's finished. It turns out a very clean amber color.

This type of detergent will not be the same as liquid detergent that you purchase from the store. So, don't expect all the suds. However, you can expect to have an awesome, free, all-natural detergent that works exceptionally well.

Making homemade paper by recycling used paper products on the homestead

Making homemade paper by recycling used paper products on the homestead

If you're like me, you probably get a ton of junk mail. Don't throw it away! Instead, save it to upcycle into new pieces of craft paper, DIY toilet paper, wall art, and homemade wall tiles.

Things you'll need to make paper pulp:

• Used paper (If you're making the recipe for DIY toilet paper, don't use any type of glossy paper, and DO NOT reuse bathroom toilet paper that's already been used. Sorry, but I had to add that in as a disclaimer.)

• Leafs, flower petals, grass clippings

• Water

• 2 old clean towels

Instructions for making DIY paper sheets from pulp:

First, gather up as much used paper and as many leaves as you want. 

Shred the paper with a paper shredder or rip it into smaller pieces. Soak the paper into a large metal pan of hot water for about one hour. 

Now, place the pan on the stovetop, add leaves, flower petals, and grass clippings. Then simmer for an hour. Then remove the pan from the stove and allow the pulp mixture to cool.

Next, lay an old clean towel out on a flat work surface. Take spoonfuls or handfuls of the pulp mixture and spoon it out as flat and thin on the towel as possible. Use a rolling pin to get the pulp even thinner. Once that's done, use another clean old towel to cover the pulp.

Now, by adding pressure, use the rolling pin and roll it in a back-and-forth motion over the towel. This will get any excess water out of the pulp so that your homemade paper can dry quicker. Take the top towel off, and allow the paper to dry for about one day. 

Once your paper has dried completely, use scissors to trim it and cut it into the size that you prefer.

For making homemade toilet paper, do not use any type of glossy paper. Add one to two teaspoons of essential lavender oil, rosehip oil, or aloe vera oil to the pulp. When rolling the pulp out on the clean towel surface, try getting it as thin as you can.

Adding the leaves, flower petals, and or grass clippings to the pulp adds stability to the paper and works as a binder. 

Today was the first time that I made paper using pine needles and brown packaging paper. I wouldn't suggest using the two of these items when making DIY toilet paper.

For DIY wall tiles 

You'll need the following:

• Used paper (any paper will work for making the DIY tiles)

• Leafs, flower petals, grass clippings

• Water

• Paint for painting the tiles after the paper dries (Optional)

• 1-8x10 picture frame with screen stapled onto the backside (just the frame part) mesh materials can also be used

• 1-8.5×11 picture frame with screen or mesh material stapled onto the backside of the frame

(The frames you use can be any size, but these are the sizes that I had on hand.) 

You'll also need wallpaper glue to adhere the tiles to the surface's that you plan to apply them on once the tiles are completely dry and painted.

The picture frames can be any size that you prefer. I use a 8x10 and a 8.5×11. The 8.5×11 will be used to shape the paper pulp into, while the 8x10 will be used simply as a paper press.

The 8.5×11 frame will be used to put the paper pulp into. Both the frames and screening will allow the pulp to be shaped with near perfect edges. You'll want the edges to be straight and neat for wall tiles. 

Follow the directions to make the pulp, then place enough pulp inside the center of the 8.5×11 picture frame, and spread it out evenly. Once the pulp is in the frame, make sure that all the pulp is smoothed out towards all the edges, then place the other frame inside the biggest frame and press the excess water out of the pulp. The pulp will need to come up to the height of the edges of the 8.5×11 picture frame.

Note: 

If you'd rather buy the pulp frame, Wal-Mart sells them. But I prefer using items that I already have on hand. 

Allow the tile to dry, then repeat the steps for making as many tiles as you'll need for your project. Paint and allow to dry. You can also wait to paint the tiles until after they're applied to the surface with wallpaper glue.

The pulp used for this project will need to be thicker than it would be for regular DIY paper. The DIY tiles will take longer to dry since they are thicker. 

Making more screened frames is useful for this project and the frames can be stacked in a criss-cross manner to save space while the tiles dry.

Notes:

Making DIY paper can be a bit messy, but it's a fun family project, and it's a way to reuse household paper waste, as well as unwanted grass clippings. 

Be creative and press wild flowers into your DIY paper before drying the pulp for a beautiful display of uniqueness. 

The pulp frames aren't entirely necessary to make homemade wall tiles. The wall tiles can be made in any shapes. I prefer using them because when the paper dries, it's left with the 3D screen indentions.

Paper pulp can also be made without grass clippings, flower petals, and leaves when making pulp for DIY paper. The paper can be made into any shapes such as hexagons, squares, hearts, circles, etc.

DIY deodorizer and cleaners for household cleaning

DIY deodorizer and cleaners for household cleaning 

If you have pets, more than likely you also have pet odors lurking around inside your home. These DIY deodorizers and cleaners can be used to deodorize floors, walls, pet kennels, bathrooms, kitchens, and more. I even use them to clean up spilt baked on grease. They work great and don't cost much to make.

So, how do these DIY deodorizers and cleaners work?

Hydrogen peroxide is one of the ingredients and it happens to be a natural oxidizer. Another ingredient that is added is baking soda. Baking soda is an all-natural abrasive, and it makes for a great scouring cleaner. It is also often used in households for cleaning, because it is great for deodorizing as well. When these two are mixed with Dawn's original blue dish detergent, the chemical reaction of dish soap, hydrogen peroxide and baking soda will lift off all the toughest stains, neutralizing the musty, smelly odors all in one.

An oxidizer is an all-natural, safe form of bleach. It's awesome to clean stubborn stains. Stains such as those that you might have on your carpet, upholstery, and hard surfaces. However, please be careful when using this on any fabric material, because it can leave bleach spots. Because hydrogen peroxide is also a natural bleach.

DIY cleaner and deodorizer

The following is the list you'll need for bigger areas and it works very well for deodorizing pet smells. Be careful when using this product on colored fabrics. The mixture will naturally whiten fabric. It's best to use on hard surfaces, such as porcelain, tile, concrete, and linoleum areas. It can be used on the surfaces of countertops, refrigerators, freezers, ovens, washers, driers, as well as in showers, bathtubs, and toilets. It also works well in dog kennels, pet carriers, and to clean cat litter boxes.

Ingredients:

• 1 quart of hydrogen peroxide

• ¼ cup of baking soda

• 1 tablespoon of original blue Dawn dish detergent

Instructions:

In a cleaning bucket, add the entire quart bottle of hydrogen peroxide. Then add the baking soda and Dawn original blue dish detergent. Stir these ingredients well until they're all incorporated together.

Use a scrub brush, or a cleaning rag and wipe or scrub the areas that need to be deodorized. Allow the mixture to dry, then wipe down the area with a clean cloth.

Deodorizer and cleaning paste for smaller areas

Basically, you'll need the same list of ingredients as the above method, but just use fewer of each. This method makes a paste which is even better to use in small areas.

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide

• 2 tablespoons of baking soda

• 1 tablespoon of Dawn original blue dish detergent

Instructions:

In a dish, add the list of ingredients; mix well.

Use this paste to get truly stuck on grease and other gunk clean. It works best if you work the mixture in and let it sit for at least thirty minutes to an hour. 

Wet the surface a little with hot water, then scrub with a scouring pad. Then wipe off.

Oven cleaner

Ingredients: 

• 1 cup of baking soda

• 2 lemons

• 1 tablespoon of Dawn original blue dish detergent

Instructions:

In a bowl, add your baking soda. Roll the lemons with the palm of your hand and countertop. Cut the lemons in half and squeeze the juice out into the bowl with the baking soda. Add the dish detergent and mix into a paste. If needed, add either a bit more lemon juice or water to bring it to a thinner consistency. This cleaner should be more like a thick paste, but a little moist too.

Next, open your oven and apply the cleaner to the inside surface. Scrub it on with one of the lemon halves. Now, allow the cleaner to stay on your oven's surface for at least thirty minutes. (If the inside of your oven is really dirty, the cleaner works even better if you can leave it overnight.)

Now, take a wet scouring pad and go over the cleaner again to get the really stuck on grease off. Wipe the inside of your oven clean with a moist towel, or use paper towels. Next, wipe your oven down with a dry towel.

Note:

I have only used Dawn's original blue dish detergent for all of these cleaners. You can try other brands, but I can only verify from my own personal tries that Dawn is the one specific dish detergent that works for me.