Savvy Saving Bytes

July 5, 2020 By Natalie 1 Comment

Oh No! Here Come the Budworms Again!

Oh No! Here Come the Budworms Again!

In passed summers I have lost countless battles with budworms as they happily gorged themselves silly on my geraniums and petunias.  As tiny, newborn worms, they stealthily bored into tender, young flower buds and ate their way out, speedily decimating every bud in flowerpots. Fatter and feistier, they then feasted on every blossom in sight. And when THOSE were chomped up, it was on to the leaves, which they carved up into clumps of dried out, Swiss cheese. (Budworm info in detail.)

 Along the way, I tried every Internet remedy to fight the voracious little monsters except poisonous insecticides. (These can be tricky. The budworms have to actually lap up the newly sprayed stuff, a toughie when you’re deeply concealed in thickly wrapped flower buds). Instead I sprayed the petunias and geraniums with soapsuds, coated them with vegetable oil, sprinkled them with onion powder, peppered them with chilies, planted smelly garlic in their soil and offered them beer and tobacco juice. All of which gave them a big laugh as they went on their merry rounds  destroying all my flowers.

Last summer I finally admitted defeat and forever banished petunias and geraniums from my garden. After scrubbing my flowerpots clean of the previous year’s soil, I gave some dahlias a whirl. For awhile they flourished. In fact for more than a while. But late in the summer, guess what appeared on my dahlia leaves? Yep. The budworms were back. (A master gardener writes about bad bug, budworms.)

So this year dahlias too were out. Yesterday I hit the downtown farmer’s market.  Extremely busy lately with a large project, I only had time for some fast web research prior to my flower selection. Not surprisingly, many of the market people who sold the flowers acted as though they have never even HEARD of budworms.  Others claimed their plants NEVER attracted budworms. And still others were as mystified as I about what plant species to try next.

Looking over some lovely verbena plants, about which I knew exactly zero, I noted they had very tiny flower buds, skimpy pickings, it seemed to me, for budworm’s fierce appetites. Deciding that verbena’s small delicate blooms would be far less appealing to budworms than chubbier petunia, geranium and dahlia blooms; I purchased some cheery pink verbena plants.

When I got home, I then made the mistake of searching for “verbena budworms” on the web. Almost instantly, the woeful picture you see above popped up. Are no flowers safe from this crawly scourge?

And so my quest for budworm-free flowers continues…

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Natalie

Filed Under: Money Saving Tips

July 2, 2020 By Natalie 1 Comment

What To Choose Between The Echo Vs Stihl Trimmer?

Echo vs Stihl trimmer: which one is the winner? In fact, nothing is the best here because every tool has its own pros and cons. 

We bet that you are confused by which one to purchase between these two products. In our opinion, the decision is based on your purpose of using the trimmer. Above all, you should pay attention to their own features to decide your future weed eater.

Eager to learn more? Let’s get started!

Echo Vs Stihl Trimmer: Which Features Distinguish Them? 

There are six main factors that help us differentiate between the Echo vs Stihl trimmer so that you can easily opt for one that suits your needs.

Power

Needless to say, whether you can complete your tasks rapidly and effectively or not is based on the power transformation of your trimmer. 

difference between echo vs stihl trimmer

When it comes to enormous power, the Stihl trimmers are always the best bet. Today, while the Echo trimmers offer only four sizes: 21.2, 22.8, 25.4, and 28.1 cc, the Stihl line even widens the options with 24.1, 27.2, 28.4, 31.4, 36.3, and 37.7 cc. Wow! Such huge powerheads! 

However, high power doesn’t mean it is impeccable. In fact, some parts of these trimmers cause users a bit nuisance. They are pretty heavy, so they can be harder to use. Also, it’s highly advised that you wear a full face shield to ensure your safety. But if you intend to proceed with more demanding jobs, the Stihl weed eater is a must!

Weight

Easy application is always one of the main targets that these two brands set their eyes on. They all have the on/off switch and throttle triggers at the same location, including the same comfortable circular handles. But the Stihl trimmers are proven to be more substantial than the Echo ones that can make many people unpleasant.

As far as we’ve known, the Echo trimmers come at 10.1-13.5 lbs, while the Stihl models weigh about 9.3-15.9 lbs. Despite their heftier weight, the Stihl brand tries to create a strap clipping onto the shaft and the most pleasant bike handle.

On average, the Echo line trimmers are about a half-pound lighter than the Stihl, most likely boiled down to the size of the Stihl power plants. Hence, the Echo models are easier to handle than the Stihl. 

Noise Output

Generally, the noise output is an unavoidable effect in every trimmer. The matter is then related to the loudness of the noise.

When being compared to the Echo line, the Stihl is still far behind. To be specific, the Echo products usually generate the noise from 76 to 100 Db(A), whereas that of the Stihl models is kept at 80 and 106 Db(A). That is to say when operated; the Stihl trimmers are significantly noisier than the Echo ones. 

Battery Life

In terms of cordless trimmers, the longer battery life is on the Echo models. The detail is below!

compare echo vs stihl trimmer

For illustration, the Stihl HSA 56 is designed to be lightweight and easy to apply. This product comes with the 36v battery for use in about 40 minutes. Nevertheless, the drawback is that it will be recharged up to 45 minutes, which is more than the used time.

Meanwhile, the Echo 58-volt trimmer, which has two amps per hour battery, has the used time for about 3 hours. Plus, you can get an extra recharge just within half an hour. If you get an enormous battery, it will take more time to charge, but still with longer run time.

Intrinsically, the amount of time you can use the trimmer directly relies on the amount of its work. For instance, the thicker the weeds and grass are, the more power the weed eater will consume. In general, the Echo trimmer is always the best option for you if you have to finish a time-demanding job. 

Safety

The fifth factor that distinguishes these two products is the safety level. To the best of our knowledge, there are more safety characteristics in the Stihl models than those of the Echo ones. The Stihl is towards absolute safety, which is a good thing.

We can highly claim that the Stihl is concerned about your well-being status during the task; that’s why it goes with an upgraded safety switch. Typically,  this product’s safety feature is the 3-stage safety switch, including the throttle trigger, top trigger, and thumb switch. Of course, you should choose one of these modes before turning on the trimmer. 

About the Echo, this trimmer also offers some decent whistles and bells to ensure your safety. To be specific, while turning off the other safety trigger, you need to press on a particular switch on the trimmer’s handhold. However, it isn’t straightforward for the first time using. Thus, Stihl products are clearly safer than the Echo ones.

Price

echo vs stihl trimmers 2020

As you already know, the Echo vs Stihl trimmers belongs to the famous, commercial-grade brands. When mentioning the affordable products, the Echo creates six models, including a one-straight shaft model, and the Stihl has three options. In other words, the Stihl offers fewer affordable products but at a more reasonable price than the Echo.

Moreover, the Stihl models supply lots of high-end products at a higher price than the Echo. Of course, the most robust Stihl model comes in 9.6 cc, which is larger than that of the Echo. 

As you know, everything has its own price! If you have enough money to pay for a high-end trimmer, go for the Stihl. Vice versa, if you are on a tight budget, the Echo still brings you standard products and meets your basic needs.

Warranty

Here is the last factor, the warranty! Actually, the Echo weed eaters offer a 5-year residential warranty and a 2-year commercial warranty; the Stihl only has a 2-year assurance for residents or commerce use. And as many people are likely to buy a trimmer for their house with more than a 2-year warranty, the odds are that Echo products have the edge over those of Stihl in this matter.

An All-Inclusive Guide On Choosing The Best Petrol Strimmer

How To Choose A Suitable String Trimmer? 

echo vs stihl hedge trimmer

Power Source

A line trimmer can be powered by gas, battery or corded electricity. 

Corded-electric models are the cheapest type. It is only suitable if you own a long cord and an outlet outside. So, if you have to trim a large area (more than 100 feet), we highly suggest you opt for other types.

Battery-powered lawn mowers seem to start immediately and operate in silence. But every cordless trimmer brand has different batteries. If you possess this trimmer, you should buy batteries from the same brand so that the machine can run on power sources explicitly made for them and have their efficiency maximized. 

The last one is the gas-powered trimmers, which are the most popular. Despite their loud noise, as long as being filled with fuel, they are full of power and can handle almost everything.

The Gap

We want you to notice the cutting head of the trimmer.                                               

There is a high possibility that tall grass will get stuck around the shaft if you see a wide gap. Therefore, a model with a small gap is highly recommended to remove the weeds quickly. 

Safety 

If you have ever used a line trimmer, you may acknowledge that it can easily scratch your skin and fly debris around during the process. It would help if you opted for a model with standard safety guards, including a shield (to hinder debris from flying around) and a cutting guard (to protect plantings).

Final Words 

In short, the Echo vs Stihl trimmer could be apparently distinguished through these factors above. To put it another way, you had better take these elements into account before deciding what to purchase. This way, you will get the desired weed eater that satisfies your demands.

Thanks for reading!

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Natalie

Filed Under: Gardening

June 17, 2020 By Natalie Leave a Comment

An All-Inclusive Guide On Choosing The Best Petrol Strimmer

Whether you’re a hobbyist or a perennial expert on gardening, possessing the best petrol strimmer would make the act of pruning shrubs and mowing grass just like a breeze. 

However, there is a problem every newbie encounters when really getting down to work. It is that they seem to be bombarded with a host of products all over the market, not to mention divisive reviews. 

Meanwhile, you’re getting more and even more confused right on this first step. But no worries, here we are, about to show you five best petrol strimmers, at the same time give them some small comparisons. 

Now, pull yourself together and let’s kick in!

A Quick Peek Into The Best Petrol Strimmer On The Market 

#1. Stanley STR-750A Petrol Grass Trimmer: Best Budget 

    Buy from Amazon

Concerning price issues, this Stanley STR-750A grass trimmer, we believe, would top any lists of the most affordable grass cutters. Yes, it’s definitely for you if you’re running on a budget.

Judging from the constructional perspective, this buddy is not any lesser ingenious.

The soft and light grip on one handle in combination with the glove-fitting D shape on the other would greatly facilitate your hand movements. Then you’ll see yourself manoeuvring the cutter like a real pro. 

To start with, you need to pull out the starter once to three times, then the engine will start smoothly.

Moreover, this Stanley trimmer is propelled on a two-stroke and air-cooled engine. 

To be specific, it is referring to the continued up and down movements of the pistol during one crankshaft rotation.

And a big plus of two-stroke engines is that it would reduce vibration during your job down to a minimum. Thus we would say, this cutting machine is suitable for even the weak-handed.

Especially when you’re a beginner, you should consider this guy a priority. Because why not?

Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to use and store
  • Super ergonomic handle
  • Little fuel consumption
  • Reasonable price
  • Minimum vibration
Cons
  • The inner shaft on the extension pole might be a bit awkward when not used

Verdict: Again, you should definitely consider this Stanley dude if you need a machine that matches your decent budget. It’ll work just fine. 

#2. McCulloch TrimMac 25cc Petrol Grass Trimmer: Best For Newbie 

    Buy from Amazon

Just another brilliant strimmer you’ve got. If you think those two above-mentioned strimmers are lightweight enough for your hand, then no, not so fast! 

This McCulloch weighs only 3.9 kg, not to mention it features a simplified thread called Tap ‘n’ Go.

It will be extended instantaneously with the trimmer head, making it particularly suitable for beginners and even female gardeners to start operating around. 

But here’s a note. Two-stroke engines do require accurate petrol to oil ratio to start properly. It’s 40:1 for this one. Thus make sure you have the right mixture before diving in. 

Using a similar two-stroke engine with a 0.6 kW power output and 25cc displacement, it’ll help you bite through the grass over grass easily. 

As for maintenance, the air filter cap above is removable without the need for any tools. This means that it considerably eases you of cleaning hassles. 

Pros
  • Beginner-friendly
  • Ergonomically rounded handle
  • Easy to assemble
  • Easy maintenance
  • Good warranty policy
Cons
  • Rather noisy
  • Does not include a neck strap
  • The shaft could be longer
  • May be a bit awkward for tall people

Verdict: This will be an absolutely wise choice for beginners in mowing lawns. It’ll guide you through the job for even hours to go. 

#3. New Trueshopping 33CC Grass Trimmer: Best Value

    Buy from Amazon

Providing an astonishing 33-cubic-centimeter engine power, this New Trueshopping guy can even promise to blow your mind away with its capabilities, versatility and longevity in the face of any harsh weather. 

As for the first two categories, the Trueshopping is never to be unseen around your domestic tasks.

Just throw it in small shrubs, medium-sized bushes or even boot-tough weeds, you’ll have it handle the rest in almost no time. Bearing such a powerful two-stroke engine, it enjoys maximum efficiency, staggering torque and prompt acceleration.

However, its weight might prove to be quite a burden for you to carry around, being about 7kg in dry weight. But you know, here is our tip.

Make some small adjustments on the shoulder straps while you try walking around until you feel a certain balance between you and the tool. 

And that’ll be just fine. We mean, it is uncomfortable but is arguably the lightest when compared with other counterparts. We can’t help!

But aside from the weight, everything will be more than okay. With a high power to weight ratio, this Trueshopping strimmer can start smoothly in any weather, rain or shine, it’s always ready for you.

Make sure you read the included instructions carefully before starting.

Pros
  • Low mobility weight
  • Very powerful engine
  • Great versatility
  • Easy for maintenance
  • Can start in any weathers
  • Has spare parts
Cons
  • Not beginner-friendly

Verdict: If you already have certain experience with strimming tools, don’t hesitate to go for this one.

#4. ParkerBrand PGBC-5200 Petrol Trimmer/ Brush Cutter: Best Strength 

    Buy from Amazon

This ParkerBrand PGBC-5200 division serves you a lofty 52-cc two-stroke engine, which would come in handy for medium to large-sized gardening tasks. 

You’ll see, this buddy works like a charm. After applying a 25:1 petrol/oil mixture, this cutting machine will guzzle petrol fairly quickly when used at high revs. Its robust engine can even be used for quite a long session under any weather conditions. 

We mean, you can throw any grass obstacles in the way, it will show you why it should be dubbed a destroying machine.

However, there is a problem almost every user encounters, which is that they experience fierce vibration when using the brush cutter, thus it’s next to impossible to hold. A suggested tip for this is checking out the blade and lower shaft again.

The blade should be put centrally whilst the lower shaft needs a correct connection. If it still doesn’t work, walk yourself through the manual all over again. Then everything will be just fine.

Pros
  • Extremely powerful
  • Great versatility
  • Reasonable price
  • Includes tool kit, harness and mixing bottle
  • Detailed manual
Cons
  • Quite heavy
  • Devours quite a large amount of fuel

Verdict: What can we say? Except for the weight, everything else should be complimented, from all-purpose capabilities, easy setup, to good accessories. 

#5. BU-KO 52cc Petrol Multi Functional Garden Tool : Best Versatility 

    Buy from Amazon

This is just what you’re looking for – the all-in-one solution to gardening stuff. Apart from the highly competent brush cutter, this tool kit also features a trimmer, pruner chainsaw, hedge trimmer, and many other accessories, as you can tell from the picture above.

Every piece is carefully selected by the manufacturer. The easy attachment between pieces and pieces enables each tool to be used right after an effortless assemble.

With a 52cc engine power, it can deal with dense weeds and overgrown grass in little time.

We’d say it’s definitely born to deal with a range of gardening challenges. For these reasons, it’s not so unusual to us if this is dubbed “the great multi-tool garden powerhouse” anyways. 

However, like the last tool we talked about, this one is also a heavy burden to put on your shoulder, even with a neck strap. Thus, try to put a time limit on each use to avoid neck/spine problems. 

Pros
  • Can be used for a variety of gardening tasks
  • Easy assembling
  • Saves money buying accessories
  • Has a detailed manual
  • Has a variety of blades
  • Makes pruning a breeze
Cons
  • Quite loud
  • Heavy

Verdict: Because this kit is made in such a professional way for long-term purposes, so it’s not recommended for a beginner or a fad hobbyist. Rather, it’s for trimming masters.

What To Consider When Going For The Best Petrol Strimmer?

best petrol strimmers for sale

The Oil Gasoline Ratio Must be Applied Properly 

Even though the construction is simplified when compared to four-stroke, two-stroke engines are extremely fastidious. They will only work well with the right mixture of fuel. 

We mean, depending on the properties of each machine that you’ll customize the fuel-oil ratio. It’d be best to read the labels as well as the manuals carefully. 

Just in case the specifications on labels and manuals are not coherent with each other due to some reasons, then don’t hesitate to contact the manufacturer.

Pulling the Cords just Right 

We know some of you might be tempted to pull the cord vigorously, in the belief that putting more strength on the pull means more strength on the engine operation.

However, that’s not the case at all. It only worsens the compression. To do this, you need to pull the cord out slowly until it can no longer be pulled. Then release the cord just so it retracts into a recoil housing. 

Make sure you follow this process right, otherwise the flywheel cord might cause you the ‘kickback’ which can give you annoying bruises.

Minimizing Vibration Throughout the Process 

best petrol strimmer review

Like we’ve mentioned earlier, some of you might experience fierce vibration to the point that you cannot hold the strimmer quite well.

This glitch might be accounted for by the wrong attachment of other parts, or the misplace of the cutting blades. 

Scientifically speaking, the structural modification would be a cure for this. We mean, you can either service the shaft and trimmer head or service the clutch. 

Conclusion 

Well, that brings us to the end of the review. Are you ready to flash your trimming skills around the garden yet?

Because we have The McCulloch TrimMac 25cc, we believe would be our choice of the best petrol strimmer, for its lightweight design, flexibility during movements and outstanding efficiency. How about you?

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Natalie

Filed Under: Gardening

June 1, 2020 By Natalie Leave a Comment

Best Hammock for Sleeping

You can purchase a hammock for sitting, for laying and relaxing, and for sleeping. Therefore, you need to make sure that you are purchasing the right type of hammock. 

This is a problem that many people are facing. They don’t know what hammock is better for sleeping. Or, they don’t even realize there are different hammocks, and that they aren’t all ideal for sleeping.

With this buying guide, you will know for sure that the hammock that you are going to buy is going to be the best hammock for sleeping. 

When You Look for the Best Hammock for Sleeping

best hammock for sleeping at home

When you are looking for the best hammock for sleeping, the one thing that you need to make sure about is that the hammock is long enough and steady enough to sleep in. You might want to install a mosquito net on top of the hammock, so there should be a place for that as well.

There are a variety of hammocks that you can purchase. But, you want to make sure that you are purchasing the right one for sleeping. Otherwise, you might not get the right amount of sleep in, when you are trying to sleep. Or, you might not get any sleep at all.

Factors to Consider When Looking for a Hammock

There’s a couple of factors that you need to consider when you are looking for a hammock. Factors that will ensure that you are going to purchase a high-quality hammock.

But also, a hammock that will be great for sleeping, no matter where you want to use it.  These are some of those factors that you need to consider.

  • Single or double hammock. The first thing that you need to make sure about, is if you want to make use of a single or double hammock. Are you going to be one person or two persons that are going to use the hammock to sleep in? Double hammocks are a bit harder to find.
  • The type of hammock. There are different types of hammocks. The hammock that is perfect for hanging between two trees, or those hammocks that comes with the stand. You need to consider which one is best for you.
  • The material that the hammock is made of. Some materials are of higher quality than other hammocks. And if you want to get value for money, you will need to purchase a hammock that has durable material.
5 Steps to Hanging Your Hammock Indoors

Buying Guide for the Best Hammock

best hammock for sleeping indoors

Besides the factors that you need to consider, there are other things that you need to consider as well. Things that will let you purchase the best hammock for sleeping. Or, you might regret purchasing the hammock, because you didn’t know everything you needed to consider first.

Your available budget, the price of the hammock and the guarantee that you are getting is essential. You should not go over your budget, but you don’t want to purchase a cheap hammock that won’t last as well.

And, make sure that it comes with a guarantee. This is the only way to ensure that you can make sure that you are going to get value for money. 

Accessories Added or Need to Purchase Separately

With a hammock for sleeping, you are getting different accessories that you can use that will make it easier to sleep in the hammock. It can be anything from the mosquito net to the tent or roof that you can install above the hammock.

Can you purchase these accessories separately, is it available for purchase? Or, are you lucky enough to get these accessories included with the best hammock for sleeping?

This is something that will make sleeping in a hammock so much better, especially if you are sleeping in the hammock while camping. 

Some of the Best Hammocks for Sleeping

best hammock for sleeping every night

Something that will help a lot is when you can know which of the hammocks you can choose that is great for sleeping. It will make the decision of choosing the right hammock so much easier. Then, you will not have to worry that you are purchasing a hammock that won’t be great for sleeping, and that won’t last very long. 

These are some of the different hammocks you can purchase that are known as the best hammocks for sleeping.

  1. Bear Butt Double Parachute Camping Hammock
  2. Winner Outfitters Double Camping Hammock
  3. Vivere Double Hammock
  4. ENO DoubleNest Hammock

When you are considering purchasing a hammock for sleeping, you need to make sure that you are going to purchase the best hammock for sleeping. There is a different type of hammocks, but they aren’t all great for sleeping.

With this buying guide, you will know exactly what to look for when purchasing your hammock. To make sure that you are going to get the best hammock for sleeping that will leave you to feel comfortable. And, you will not waste money on purchasing something that you won’t use again.

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Natalie

Filed Under: Outdoor Activities

May 31, 2020 By Natalie Leave a Comment

Best Weed Eater String on the Market 2020

When you have a weed eater, you will need to replace the weed eater string at some point. Does it really matter what type of string you purchase for the weed eater? Or, can you just purchase the cheapest one you can find?

Most people have purchased the wrong string at least once. This is something that is happening all the time.

And, you need to make sure that it doesn’t happen again. It’s why you need to make sure that you know what the best weed eater string is, and if you can use it for your weed eater.

With this info, you will make sure that you get to know everything about the best weed eater string you can find. 

Different Thickness Weed Eater Strings. Does the Thickness Matter?

best weed eater string for stihl

The first thing that you will see when you are purchasing a new weed eater string, is that there are different thickness and size strings. Confusing a lot of people about which one you should purchase. 

If you don’t know what thickness you need, it can be really hard to know which one to purchase. And, this is why so many are purchasing the wrong thickness.

One thing that you need to remember is that thickness does matter. It is important to make sure that you know what thickness your weed eater uses and if it is designed for different thicknesses or not. 

What You Should Consider About the Different Thickness Weed Eater String?

What should you consider the different thicknesses of the weed eater string? You should make sure that you know what type of work you want to get done. 

If this is heavy-duty jobs that you need to get done, you should consider the thicker string. You will also see that the gas weed eaters are normally using the thicker string as the other weed eaters.

Because it has stronger motors and is used for heavy duty work. The electrical weed eaters have a thinner string and are used for work that isn’t as heavy duty.

However, you might install thicker string if you know that you are going to cut thick and dense grass. But, you need to read the instruction manual to ensure that you can purchase thicker strings for your weed eater. 

Some Weed Eaters Need to Use a Certain Thickness

best weed eater string replacement

This is really important to consider. There are some weed eaters, especially the older versions that can only use a certain thickness.

And, if you are going to use another thickness, it is going to cause problems when you are using the weed eater to cut grass.

If you know for sure that you have an older weed eater, you should rather make use of the same thickness string. Or, you should contact an expert to give you all the necessary information about the thickness you can use.

This is especially the case for those weed eaters that are using the thinner weed eater string. 

Murder Among the Geraniums

Read the Instruction Manual to Purchase the Right Weed Eater String

Most of the time, you can make use of the instruction manual before you can purchase the right weed eater string. Especially, if you are unsure about the thickness that you can use.  This is one of the reasons why you should never throw the instruction manual away.

There also might be other information about the weed eater string that you need to know. Something that might be important when you are going to purchase a new string.

If you have lost the instruction manual, you can always download a new one from the internet. You will find it on the manufacturer’s website. 

Some of the Best Weed Eater Strings You Can Purchase

	best weed eater string head

Besides the different thicknesses, there are also different brand name strings that you can purchase. And, it is important to know the quality string from the cheap string.

If you are new to using a weed eater, you can choose any one of these weed eater strings. Just remember that you need to take the name of your weed eater into consideration before you make your final decision about the string you are going to purchase.

These are known as the best weed eater strings you can purchase:

  1. Cyclone CY155S3 – Best .155-Inch Trimmer Line
  2. Husqvarna Titanium Force .095-Inch Weed Eater String
  3. DEWALT DWO1DT802 Weed eater String
  4. King Garden String Trimmer Spool

Weed eater string. Something that you will need to replace on your weed eater at some point. The problem is that not many people know which weed eater string will fit onto their weed eater. Ending up wasting money and purchasing the wrong size and thickness.

With this guide, you will know for sure that you are going to make the right decision in purchasing the right thickness string. Making sure that you are going to get the most out of your weed eater without struggling with the wrong string.

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Natalie

Filed Under: Gardening

May 30, 2020 By Natalie Leave a Comment

Best Ball Pit for Kids & Toddlers on the Market

If there is one thing that will keep a child entertained, then this is the ball pit for kids and toddlers. There isn’t really something similar that will give that amount of pleasure. 

But, what is a ball pit and how do you make sure that you are purchasing the right one for your toddler? These are questions that many parents are asking.

With this guide, you will be able to understand everything about the ball pit and how you can make sure that you are going to purchase the right one.

What is a Ball Pit?

ball pit for toddler boy

A ball pit is basically just a small-size pool that is filled with balls instead of water. The pool is normally the size of a small size baby pool. It can be placed outside or inside the home.

The balls are softballs that won’t cause any injuries and it is colorful, that is also a great way to learn the children the different colors. They can play for hours on end in the ball pit, having fun. 

Benefits of Having a Ball Pit for Kids and Toddlers

Now, you might ask why do you as a parent want to purchase a pool of balls. You are going to give yourself a lot of work making sure that the balls in kept inside the pool or pit. However, there are many reasons why this is something that you should consider purchasing.

The first benefit is fun. Fun for the children. They love playing inside the pit and they can’t get hurt. There is no way that they can drown like in a pool of water.

It can be an educational toy as well if the parents join in the fun and start teaching them the different color balls. This is also a great way to keep them busy, while you are working, and you know that they are safe. 

Things to Consider When Purchasing a Ball Pit for Toddlers

ball pit for big kid

Before you are purchasing the ball pit for kids and toddlers, there are a couple of things that you should consider. Things that you need to make sure about before you decide on a ball pit.

You need to make sure that you have the space for the ball pit. Many are purchasing a ball pit and placing it in the toddler’s room. This is a great way for them to play safely. If you are placing the ball pit outside, then you just need to make sure that there is supervision all the time. They can still get hurt if they are playing too roughly. 

The size of the ball pit is also something to consider. Do you have just the one child, or are there more than one child that would want to play in the pit? Luckily there are different size pits that you can purchase if you have more than one child. 

All You Need to Know About Trampoline Weight Limit

Buyers Guide for Purchasing the Best Ball Pit for Kids and Toddlers

With this buying guide, you will not make a mistake in purchasing the wrong type of ball pit for kids and toddlers. These are all things that you need to consider before making your final decision.

  • The age and weight limit of the ball pit
  • What are the add-ons and features that the ball pit has? Will it keep the child entertained?
  • Make sure that the ball pit that you are purchasing includes the balls. Not all the ball pits include the balls as well.
  • How durable the ball pit and balls are? And, how easy it is to set up the ball pit for your children. The more durable, the longer it will last. The set up is essential if you don’t go to leave it all setup and ready to use.

Some of the Best Ball Pits You Can Buy at the Moment

ball pit for toddler girl

These are some of the best ball pits that you can buy for your kids and toddlers at the moment. With these, your children will never have a dull moment.

  1. KUUQA Kids Ball Pit Ball Tent
  2. Kiddey Ball Pit Play Tent for Kids
  3. Join Toy 8 in 1 Pop-up Play Tent for Ball Pit Playing
  4. EocuSun Polka Dot 3-in-1 Ball Pit
  5. My Bouncer Perfect Little Ball Pit

Those parents that have a ball pit before will know how much fun it is for kids and toddlers. They just can’t get enough of the ball pits. Especially those larger ones with the many balls that they can enjoy outside. 

But you need to make sure that you are going to purchase the right ball pit for your children and need to consider the size and available space you have for the ball pit.

Then, you will know for sure that your children are going to have all the fun in the world.

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Natalie

Filed Under: Sports

May 30, 2020 By Natalie Leave a Comment

All You Need to Know About Trampoline Weight Limit

There are many things that we are looking at when we are purchasing a trampoline. You might look at the size of the trampoline, the added features, and even if there is some of the safety equipment added to the trampoline. 

However, the one thing that we don’t really look at, is the weight limit. This is because, for most of us, this isn’t something really important. What can happen when you exceed the total weight of the trampoline?

It is important to make sure that you know everything there is to know about the weight limit of a trampoline before you decide that it is unimportant. 

Is Knowing the Trampoline Weight Limit Important?

weight limit on a trampoline

The first answer that might come to mind is no. It isn’t really important to know the weight limit of a trampoline. However, this isn’t the truth. It is really important to know the total weight of a trampoline. This is if you don’t want to get injured while using the trampoline.

Or, you might be lowering the quality of the trampoline, and if a child is playing on the trampoline, it might break and cause serious injury to the child. Not only is it important to know the limit of the trampoline, but it is also important to make sure that you know the real limit that the trampoline can handle. 

When You Are Exceeding the Weight Limit on a Trampoline

What is happening when you are exceeding the weight limit on a trampoline? Will, it really breaks, or is this just a safety precaution that needs to be on the package of the trampoline?

When you are exceeding the weight limit on a trampoline, there are a couple of things that are going to happen. First of all the trampoline stands or legs will start to bend. Making the trampoline unstable.

The springs will also bend, making it more vulnerable to breaking. Over time, you are weakening the structure of the trampoline, and the trampoline mat. And, it might be a young child that is breaking the trampoline and getting seriously injured.  

What is Influencing the Weight Limit of a Trampoline?

weight limit at trampoline park

There are a couple of things that are influencing the weight limit of a trampoline. And, these are things that you need to look at when you are looking for a trampoline that is durable and long-lasting. 

The first thing that you need to look at is the overall quality of the trampoline. The higher the quality, the more weight the trampoline will be able to hold. The material that the mat is made from also has an influence on the strength of the trampoline and the weight it can hold. And, lastly, the material that the structure, the springs and the legs of the trampoline are made from. 

Normally cheap trampolines will bend easier, and their weight limit will be less to those that are more expensive and higher in quality. 

Should You Trust the Weight Limit on the Instruction Leaflet?

It is important to know that the weight limit on the package or on the instruction leaflet is just an indication of the weight limit of the trampoline. However, this doesn’t mean that this is the real weight limit. 

The best thing that you can do, is to read reviews about the real weight limit. The weight limit that they experienced the trampoline might be. This will give you a much better indication of the total weight limit of the trampoline. And, you will see that it will be different from the limit stated on the package of the trampoline. 

Reading as Much About the Weight Limit of Your Trampoline as Possible

trampoline by weight limit

Now, that you know the dangers of exceeding the weight limit of your trampoline, there is only one thing left to do. You need to read as much about the weight limit of your trampoline as possible. 

The more you know, the better you will know if the trampoline is safe to use for you or not. And, you need to remember that children’s trampolines always have a lower weight limit as trampolines for adults. 

This is why adults should never play on a child’s trampoline. Even if this is to give attention to the child and to play with her. It will just put her in trouble at the end of the day.

Knowing the trampoline’s total weight limit is essential. It’s the only way that you can be sure to keep you and your family safe from any injuries that you might get from using the trampoline. You need to make sure that you know the limit indicated on the package.

But, you should also make sure that you search for more accurate weight limit measurements to ensure that you and your children are really as safe as they are saying you are. The weight limit is really important to know on a trampoline.

savvysavingbytes natalie's avatar
Natalie

Filed Under: Sports

May 30, 2020 By Natalie Leave a Comment

Best Dog Food for Maltipoo on the Market

If you have a special type of dog like a Maltipoo, then you need to make sure that you are taking care of them the right way. This is the only way that you can make sure that they are staying as healthy as possible.

One of these things that you should make sure about, is the type of dog food that you are giving them. And, how you should feed them is also essential.

There are many things about Maltipoo and the food that you need to know. This is to make sure that your doggy is healthy and happy and getting the best dog food for Maltipoo dogs.

What is a Maltipoo?

best dog food for maltipoo puppies

Never heard about a Maltipoo dog species? Don’t worry, this is a new species that is basically a mix between a poodle and a Maltese. Resulting in a small teacup size dog that is delicate and that needs special care. 

They have health problems from both the poodle and the maltese, so this can also be a problem if you don’t feed them correctly. They are lovable, curly hair dogs that will have your heart in the palm of their paws.

Now, that you know what a Maltipoo dog is, now you need to know everything about the best food for them to keep them healthy.

Small Breed Dog Food Essential for Your Maltipoo

Because this is a small breed dog, especially the puppies, you need to make sure that you are giving them the right size dog food.

Otherwise, they might go hungry because they can’t eat their food, or they might injure themselves or break teeth. 

It is recommended that you are only feeding them small breed dog food, but with the food that has the smallest pellets. This is the best option to ensure that the dog is eating enough. You can also soften the dog food if necessary. 

Feeding Times for Your Maltipoo

best dog food for maltipoo with grain

This is another really important thing that you need to remember when you have a maltipoo. You need to make sure that you don’t overfeed them.

So, automatic feeders aren’t recommended. This will make them overweight and shorten their lifespan.

Adult dogs can be fed twice a day. Once in the morning and once before bedtime. The puppies need to be fed a lot more, but with smaller portions. 

It is recommended that the puppies are getting up to 5 meals per day, but really small portions.

Remember that they are small and they have small stomachs. Overfeeding can be done so easily and this isn’t something that you want to do with your Maltipoo. 

How to Soften Dog Food

Guide in Finding the Best Dog Food for the Maltipoo

There are a couple of things that you need to look for when you are purchasing the best dog food for your Maltipoo.

This is besides the size of the pellets. A great option that you can always consider is organic dog food. This offers the best quality food for a special type of dog.

Because they have sensitive stomachs, you need to make sure that you are choosing food that doesn’t have too many ingredients. And, you should not mix up different dog food.

Grain-free dog food is also recommended. Some of the nutrients that the dog food should have include protein, carbohydrates, amino acids, fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

But remember this is for the small dog food requirements. It is also important to look for a dog food that offers high-quality protein sources like eggs, meat, dairy, seafood, etc. 

Some of the Best Dog Food for Maltipoo Puppies and Adults

best dog food for poodle

All this information might sound like way too much to remember. And, you might stress about what dog food actually will work for your Maltipoo puppy and adult dog.

But you don’t need to worry. These are some of the dog food options that you can choose for puppies and adults. 

  • Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach and Skin
  • Royal Canin, Small Puppy Dry Food
  • Nutro Wholesome Essentials Maltipoo Puppy Food
  • Blue Buffalo Wilderness, High Protein – Grain Free Dog Food
  • Nature’s Variety Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken, Small Breed

You just need to remember that this is just some of the dry dog food that your maltipoo can enjoy. There are some great wet food options that you can consider as an alternative as well.

Especially to puppies and the older dogs. Those that have a Maltipoo dog or puppy know how special these dogs can be.

And, this is why you need to make sure that you are giving them the best food that you can offer them. Because of their size, it can be hard to know exactly what food they can eat and how much food they should be eating a day.

With this guide, you will get all the necessary information to have a health Maltipoo that is eating the best dog food for them.

savvysavingbytes natalie's avatar
Natalie

Filed Under: Pet

May 30, 2020 By Natalie Leave a Comment

How to Soften Dog Food

Normal dry dog food is so dry and tasteless. Sometimes we are feeling so sorry for the dogs to eat that hard and tasteless food. And, we want to make the food softer for them.

But you need to make sure that you know exactly how to soften dog food correctly for your dog. Especially, when it comes to puppies and old dogs.

These are some of the best ways and tips for how to soften dog food for your beloved dog. There is no reason why they should be eating dry dog food all the time.  

Why Do You Want to Soften Dog Food?

how to soften dog food kibble

Why do you want to soften the dog food for your dog? There might be many different reasons why this is something that you want to consider.

Maybe you just want to give something different to the dog. Or, the dog doesn’t like eating dry food, and you want to make it easier for him to eat.

Puppies that are still new to eating find heating dry food really hard. The same goes for older dogs that might not have all their teeth anymore.

Or, your dog might have a mouth or teeth problem that is preventing him from eating hard food. These are all some of the reasons why you might want to consider softening the dog food. 

The Normal Method: Using Hot or Cold Water

This is the normal method that people are using most of the time. Adding some water to the dry food and leaving it for an hour or two before giving it to the dog.

Some are adding cold water, and leave it until the food softens. However, this can take a long time for the dog food to soften.

Making use of hot water is working best. It is soaking and softening the dry food a lot faster. And, your dog can start enjoying his meal a lot faster.

After the dog food has softened, you can leave the food as is, or you can smash it and make it smooth for the dog to lick. The more water you add, the waterier the food will become. 

For More Flavor: Using Broth or Milk

how to soften dog food for puppies

If your dog is struggling to enjoy the flavor of the dry or the wet dog food with the water, then there is still one or two things that you can try before you are giving up. You can add more flavor, or adding another flavor to the food. 

You are doing this by making use of broth or milk. The broth can be basically any broth that you can find. The less salt it has, the better for the dog.

With milk, low-fat milk is the better option. So many people are saying that milk isn’t recommended for dogs, but they love milk just as much as cats.

The milk and broth will change the flavor and it will make it easier for the dog to enjoy. You can still leave it as is, or you can smash it to a pulp or paste before giving it to the dog.

It is just recommended that you are heating the broth and milk before adding it to the dry dog food. 

For Extra Nutrients: Adding Wet Food as Well

If your dog is ill, and you are looking for some added nutrients, then you can always add some wet food with the dry dog food as well.

Especially, if the dry dog food is already softening. This will enhance the nutrients that the dog is getting, and will make the taste of the food a lot better. Ensuring that the dog enjoys every bite.

This can become expensive over time, so you don’t need to add too much of this wet dog food. Just a small amount to change the taste and smell of the food. 

What Should You Do and Not Do With Softening Dog Food?

how to soften dry dog food

One thing that is really serious to know and consider is what you should do with the left-over soaked dog food. You can’t give it to him the next morning again if there were leftovers.

This dog food can get ruined very easily and can make a dog ill. So, you should make sure that you are giving him just enough to eat. Don’t make some in advance as well.

This is a complete guide about softening dry dog food. There are different methods, and you should find the one that your dog likes the most.

Some dogs like the softened food, while others can’t eat hard food because of teething problems.

With all this information you will now have four different ways to soften dry dog food to chance their food a bit and to make it a bit tastier and to even add nutrients to the dry food.

savvysavingbytes natalie's avatar
Natalie

Filed Under: Pet

April 27, 2020 By Natalie Leave a Comment

Best Offset Smoker Under 1000

It’s hard to find a good offset smoker these days as the cheap ones are very much likely to break after just a short time of use while the high-quality ones can cost you up to several thousand.

Knowing your concerns, we’ve spent hours researching and coming up with a list of the best offset smoker under 1000, with the aim of helping you find a suitable smoker that fits your budget.

Without further ado, let’s jump right into today’s article!

The Best Offset Smoker Under 1000

#1: Dyna-Glo DGO1890BDC-D Offset Smoker: Best Overall

    Buy from Amazon

The DGO1890BDC-D from the brand Dyna-Glo is our top pick of today for the best overall.

This heavy-duty steel coated isn’t like any other wood-burning offset smoker; Its cabinet configuration along with the firebox is designed for charcoal use, yet you can still be flexible on using wood chips.

Thanks to the dual doors built for minimizing heat loss, the smoking time is reduced, and your food gets the distinctive sweetness from burnt wood and charcoal combined.

If you’re a charcoal enthusiast, this charcoal smoker will not let you down.

What we like best about this smoker is the electronic pulse ignition system supporting quick and easy ignition, so you don’t have to spend much time watching over the smoker.

The DGO1890BDC-D is easy to set up; it doesn’t require you to be a technical expert to assemble the pieces and it takes minor effort to maintain.

This offset smoker offers 1890 square inches of cooking space with adjustable grates, creating even heat distribution. The DGO1890DC-D is said to be the best smoker Dyna-Glo has ever made, if not the best on the market.

However, some customers reported that they experienced heat leak after a time of use. Also, its steel construction is relatively thin, giving a weak feel. We suggest you buy high heat silicone and a smoker gasket to help with this.

Pros
  • Wide cooking surface of 1890 square inches
  • 6 adjustable grates
  • Easy-to-clean sliding charcoal tray
  • Heavy-duty feature
Cons
  • Too heavy to move around
  • Unstable thermometer
  • Heat leak after a time of use

#2: Royal Gourmet CC1830S Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker: Best Design

    Buy from Amazon

This 2-in-1 gadget from Royal Gourmet is just what you need for a BBQ day out with friends and family.

Thanks to the positive feedback from customers regarding their previous model – the CC1830F (mentioned below), Royal Gourmet decided to invest in more time and effort to bring you the CC1830S with a handful of improved features. Check them out!

The smoker box is attached to the side of the grill with independent damper control. It can be used to start a small fire without having to use the big grill, resulting in saving you time and a lot of charcoal as well.

The grilling grates are coated with non-stick porcelain, contributing to retaining the heat longer with more even heat distribution. There is also a warming rack to hold the prepared food.

The charcoal pan does a great job of providing restaurant-quality food when you choose the proper setting. Chops, steaks, burgers, chicken, or seafood, all will be cooked to perfection.

However, if you’re buying this grill because of the smoker, you’ll be disappointed to know that it is not big enough to handle a big fire.

And even though many customers reported this problem with the previous CC1830F, Royal Gourmet still failed to fix the problem. This is something that will make potential buyers think twice before buying this product.

All-in-all, this grill works great if you don’t count too much on the smoker box.

Pros
  • Non-stick porcelain-coated grates
  • Large grilling surface of 483 square inches
  • Easy to assemble and clean
  • 2-in-1 grill
Cons
  • Small smoker box
  • Unstable thermometer
  • The smoker box is hard to clean thoroughly

#3: Royal Gourmet CC1830F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker: Best Versatility

    Buy from Amazon

Next in our list today, it is another 2-in-1 product from the brand Royal Gourmet – the CC1830F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker.

This conventional smoker is attached with a left side smoker box and a 2-wheel system at the bottom for more portability. The product is quite lightweight, around 57 pounds, making it easy to move around.

It features a large cooking surface of 800 square inches, which is enough to handle a great amount of food at a time.

There is also a sturdy cart with an extended metal bottom shelf to make the construction more sound, unlike other grills that tend to be shaky sometimes.

The only significant problem with this grill-and-smoker is the quality and size of the side smoker. It is made from thin metal and quite small compared with the rest of the grill, and this can be quite an inconvenience.

You see, since the smoker box is small, if you try to make a large fire with it, it will overheat and surpass the heat rating on the firebox paint. Also, the attached thermometer is not quite accurate; it can be 10-15℉ strayed away.

Pros
  • Wide cooking space
  • Sound base with extended metal bottom
  • Additional ash removal tray
  • Easy to assemble and clean
  • Porcelain-coated grates
Cons
  • Limited space smoker box
  • Inaccurate analog thermometer
  • Short time warranty
The A to Z About Smoking Deer Meat

#4: Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Offset Smoker and Grill: Best Performance

    Buy from Amazon

If you’re looking for something more heavy-duty, the Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Offset Smoker and Grill is definitely your go-to option.

You might not be impressed with the bulky design, but the features it offers will make you think twice.

There are 5 chrome-plated cooking grates to help you make different dishes at a time, saving up to hours of cooking, and of course, fuels as well.

The heavy-duty stainless steel body allows you to cook all cuts of meat with stable heat distribution.

The side grilling chamber can really come in handy as you can grill sausages or side vegetables while waiting for the main course to be smoked in the other chamber.

The cool-touch lid keeps your hand from being burnt as you open the chamber and check your food. There is also an analog thermometer to tell you when the smoker has reached the ‘Smoke Zone,’ meaning it is ready to be used.

However, you may find the thin steel construction to be a problem. Yet, with such a price, you can’t really ask for more, considering the quality it offers.

What is more, you will need some time to get used to adjusting the amount of wood to put in without causing heat loss.

It might get a little tricky to maintain a steady temperature, but once you’ve chosen the right size and amount of wood, everything will work out just fine.

Pros
  • Heavy-duty durable stainless steel material
  • 5 easy-to-clean grates
  • Vertical offset smoker
Cons
  • Time-consuming assembly
  • Thin steel construction
  • Hard to maintain a steady temperature

#5: Char-Broil Offset Smoker: Best Value

    Buy from Amazon

Last but not least in today’s list, it is the Char-Broil Offset Smoker.

This is a conventional horizontal offset smoker that offers 477 square inches primary cooking surface for you to smoke meat of any cuts.

It is one of the finest traditional smokers on the market with a grayish-black color to fit into any surrounding. This smoker is not so lightweight, around 70 lbs. But it features a 2-wheel system on the bottom for better portability.

The shelf underneath the smoker comes in handy when you need a place to store cookware or spices. You can find a firebox on the left side of the chamber, with an ash-removal for easy cleaning.

However, you should know that the thermometer doesn’t give quite accurate numbers; yet, it is not a big deal once you’ve got the hang of it.

Also, some customers reported that the door leaked quite a bunch when smoking so we recommend you buy some high heat gasket tape for the best experience with this product.

Pros
  • Great value for the money
  • Large cooking space
  • 2-wheel system for more portability
  • Easy-to-clean
Cons
  • Relatively complicated assembly
  • Quite heavy compared with other smokers
  • Smoke leak

My Final Verdict

best offset smoker for 1000

Enjoy preparing the restaurant-quality smoked ribs or any other food at the comfort of your own house with the best offset smoker under 1000.

It’s hard to say which smoker in this list is the best as each has its own unique features. But if we have to choose, we would go with the Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D.

Why?

It ticks all boxes for value, versatility, and design. The 5 easy-to-clean chrome-plated cooking grates and a convenient thermometer to tell you when the smoker is ready are two main reasons for our pick.

Good luck with finding the most suitable smoker for yourself, and thank you for reading.

savvysavingbytes natalie's avatar
Natalie

Filed Under: BBQ

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