A virtual private network or VPN is one of the most useful tools for privacy that can be used at its best when using a public network, as it makes data tracking difficult due to encrypted connection. A VPN connection hides one’s IP address, which prevents companies from keeping tabs on your browsing history. So, if you are thinking of ramping up your privacy setting while using the internet, the following VPN services of 2021 can help you stay off the radar.
NordVPN
It is one of the best VPN services of 2021 that offers its services for both mobiles and desktops. The VPN service offers not only AES-256 standard encryption but also a double VPN system that encrypts the internet traffic twice. This ensures stronger network impermeability when using public networks. NordVPN is one of those VPN services with at least 5,000 servers in more than 60 countries, ensuring uninterrupted privacy. Moreover, it allows up to six simultaneous connections. Some of its other features include DNS leak protection, proxy extensions on Firefox and Chrome browsers, and kill switches. It is also one of the few VPN servers that accepts Bitcoin as payment.
CyberGhost
If you are looking for unblocked worldwide access to streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and iPlayer, CyberGhost is the VPN service for you. One of the best features of CyberGhost is it has at least 7,000 servers with more than 105 server locations in 91 countries, allowing maximum simultaneous connections of more than 7 devices. CyberGhost runs on almost all operating systems, including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. The VPN service offers a trial period of 45 days with a money-back guarantee.
Surfshark
Like most VPN services, Surfshark offers its services on almost all OS platforms, making it compatible with mobile phones and desktops, thereby ensuring maximum privacy even on public networks. With 24/7 customer support, Surfshark has 3,200 servers in at least 100 locations in 65 countries. While other VPN services offer limited multiple-device connection, Surfshark offers unlimited devices connection. It also has private DNS and double VPN hop that adds an extra layer of security while browsing the internet.
ExpressVPN
It is one of the best VPN services of 2021. ExpressVPN is a trusted name when it comes to online privacy. ExpressVPN has more than 3,000 servers in almost 160 locations across 94 countries, and you can use it even on the go, as it works on both mobile phones and desktops. It can be used on various operating system platforms like Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. ExpressVPN has dedicated extensions for web browsers like Chrome and Firefox.
Keeping the house clean is challenging. No matter how often you vacuum, mop, or wipe down a surface, dust accumulates just as quickly and repeatedly. You can even occasionally hire professionals to do the job or invest in modern cleaning solutions. Still, your effort and money might be in vain if you don’t pay attention to some common cleaning blunders. Below, we’ve listed nine mistakes you must avoid when cleaning your home.
Using the same cloth
Dust, pet dander, and airborne pollutants collect on various surfaces inside the home. But not every surface can be thoroughly cleaned with the same piece of cloth. It’s advisable to use a microfiber cloth for cleaning kitchen and home appliances as it efficiently removes stains and smudges and is gentle on glass and plastic surfaces. Large-size washcloths are best for kitchen counters and furniture surfaces. Using different cloths prevents dust and grime from cross-contaminating surfaces and keeps the indoors spotless.
Using cleaning products excessively
Cleaning solutions are laced with chemicals and strong industrial compounds synthesized to tackle the dirt. However, using them excessively or mixing two products can trigger an adverse toxic reaction. If two formulas react upon contact, they may release fumes, which, if inhaled, can cause serious health complications. Most cleaning products are manufactured for individual use, so never mix them with another solution to increase their efficacy.
Using abrasive products on tiles
Porcelain tiles lose their sheen and texture if repeatedly exposed to abrasive materials. Industrial-strength cleaners with a strong formula can rob them of their pearlescent shine. Even abrasive cloths designed to pick up microscopic dirt particles are too harsh for porcelain tiles. So, it’s always best to use a light sponge to wipe down these tiles and apply minimal cleaning products. You can even buy tile cleaners with specific formulas that are suitable for such surfaces.
Not using a disinfectant
Simply cleaning won’t suffice. Environmental pollutants and allergens linger around even after using industrial-strength cleaner formulas. That’s why it’s necessary to follow up with a coat of disinfectant. Spraying the surface with a disinfectant after cleaning eliminates most germs and allergens, preventing bacterial and viral infections from spreading.
Rubbing stains
Rubbing stains is one of the most common and significant home cleaning mistakes, especially if the stain is on a cloth or fabric. Rubbing the stain pushes the leftover residue deep into the fabric, making it impossible to remove it after a couple of hot washes and dry cycles. Experts recommend using a little liquid soap and a clean cloth to dab and absorb such stains. Once the stain is absorbed, the fabric should be soaked in a stain remover solution. You can scrub off the residue while holding the fabric immersed in the solution.
Spraying directly on electronic devices
TVs, entertainment systems, and smart gadgets installed at home require utmost care and attention to maintain their performance and increase their life. Unfortunately, many homeowners make the silly mistake of using a cleaner spray directly on the electronic device. Even if the device is switched off, spraying a cleaning solution directly on its surface is never a good idea. You should first spray the solution onto a microfiber cloth designed for electronics and then gently wipe the surface clean.
Not cleaning from top to bottom
Sweeping and mopping the floors should ideally be the last task. That’s because the dirt and grime you wipe off appliances, furniture, and furnishings settle on the floor. So, if you’ve already mopped, you’ll have to unnecessarily mop again. The same idea applies when cleaning multiple rooms: start from one end of the house and proceed in one direction to prevent dirt from moving around from one room to another and back again.
Cleaning in a cooped-up environment
Always open a window or door of the room before you start cleaning. Sweeping and mopping debris off surfaces releases microscopic allergens in the air, and inhaling these substances increases the risk of allergies or infections that trigger respiratory ailments. Industrial cleaning products also release toxic fumes that should not be inhaled continuously in a closed environment. Besides opening a window or door, turn on the air purifier in the room to absorb these allergens if you have one.
Not emptying the vacuum
Dust bags inside a vacuum cleaner can store a limited quantity of dirt and debris. Not emptying them regularly affects their suction and leads to other problems. For example, the cleaner might overheat or catch fire due to excess debris in the dust bag. It’s advisable to empty the bag after every use and clean the vacuum nozzles. Remember that, besides dust, the vacuum also picks up microfibers and lint from cloth surfaces like carpets and furnishings around the home. This causes the bags to fill up faster than estimated.
Simple things like using the correct type of cloth, cleaning formula, and accessories can make all the difference in achieving a clean and tidy home. The frequency of cleaning can differ depending on the home’s general layout and size. Planning and organizing the cleaning schedule will dramatically impact the efficiency of a cleaning job.
Our sedentary lifestyle takes a huge toll on our bodies, and pretty soon you can see a paunch slightly jutting out of your favorite shirt, or you might find your pretty skinny jeans cutting into your thighs. These are signs that indicate the fact that we are neglecting our body. So, what do you do next? It’s never too late to make amends to your routine. You can either join a gym or take up some sport to keep your body from flailing. However, there are people who do not enjoy working out in confined places and aren’t motivated to follow the routine every day. So, there’s still hope for such people. Pick up your running shoes and start jogging in the morning. Nothing brightens your day than being in the midst of nature and exercising at the same time.
Now that you have decided to go running, the next question is, which running shoes should you opt for? There are plenty of different running shoes in the market and this might add to your confusion. So, let’s make it easier for you. If you are looking for durability and style plus a dose of comfort, Asics running shoes are what would fit the bill perfectly. Asics running shoes should be your first preference if you wish to blend comfort with style. Here’s a list of the best Asics running shoes that would suffice all your needs to the T.
Asics Dynaflyte- Asics Dynaflyte is the latest in the Asics running shoes collection. Stylish and practical, these shoes are the ones that has shocked the testers as well, with its perfect grip and ability to chain gait swiftly. It is equipped with the new Impact Guidance System and has excellent moisture management which means bye-bye sweaty feet.
Asics GT 2000 4- Is over-pronation a problem? There’s no need to fret. The Asics GT 2000 4 is designed for the daily runner and takes care of over-pronation with great ease. You needn’t worry whether your gait would be affected or the shoes would be fit you snugly enough to provide balance, because this Asics running shoes has a heel clutching system for support.
Asics Gel Kinsei 6- If you are a daily runner and prefer comfort over everything else, then the Asics Gel Kinsei 6 is what you should opt for. The first thing that you need to take care while buying shoes is that, your feet should be able to breathe. This Asics running shoes are very breathable and the uppers are chafe-free.
Asics Gel Noosa Tri 9- Here’s a unique flashy Asics running shoes for the ones who love quirky designs. The gel cushioning system in heel and forefoot absorbs shock, so you aren’t going to experience any discomfort while running.
So, get your Asics running shoes and jog your way to a healthy you.
When you are getting late for office and your car does not start, you realize how a dysfunctional car battery can create problems for you. A flat battery can ruin your dinner plans if you cannot repair it on your own. Hence, the importance of a car battery. The most important part of the car’s engine, a battery gets the car running. Usually, a battery is either ‘flooded’ or ‘wet’ type. While flooded batteries are made up of lead plates and are maintenance free, wet batteries are comparatively cheap and completely hassle-free.
The life of a car battery depends on its proper usage, however, a well-maintained one can last up to five years. You should be careful and check your battery on a timely basis if it does not work even after charging. Also, do not start a car if your battery is leaking, has a cracked casing and its end walls are swollen. These are the indications to replace the battery. While doing so, you should keep a few things in mind.
-Make sure to purchase a new car battery of the appropriate size and design as per your vehicle’s make. Too small a battery can affect the functioning of your car. Similarly, the design of the battery is equally important to ensure that it will fit in your car.
-While buying a car battery, you have to be careful of the temperature you drive in. The hotter the temperature, the more strain your battery has to go through. For such cases, get a high-performance battery.
-Always make sure you get a car battery with a shelf life of six months or less. Check the manufacturer code (indicates month and year) on the battery cover before buying.
-It is advisable to get the car battery installed at the store for proper installation. Professionals can install it properly while saving you time and stress.
One of the most reliable brands in car batteries, Optima has impressive starting power to start a car. Although they are expensive, these batteries have the longest lifespan and are known to work in extreme temperatures. Available in three different types – RedTop, Yellow Top, and BlueTop, Optima is perfect for SUVs, trucks, and other heavy vehicles.
Marketed by Sears, DieHard batteries are considered as powerful and premium batteries. With a lifespan longer than other car batteries, DieHard can withstand drastic weather conditions. Ideal for famous brands such as BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, Mercedes, these batteries provide a maintenance-free solution.
Duralast batteries are budget-friendly car batteries with excellent performance and longer life. Available only at AutoZone stores, these batteries work exceptionally well even in extreme conditions. The Duralast Gold battery is engineered with extra grids and plates to give your car maximum starting power, even in freezing temperatures.
Exide car batteries have created a benchmark in the automotive batteries market with its superior performance and easy installation. Other than four-wheelers, Exide also manufactures batteries for three-wheelers, two-wheelers, and e-rickshaws. Its SureLife Graphite Technology promises hassle-free and quick charging even when the battery is fully discharged. Capable of delivering the best even at low temperatures, these batteries can work flawlessly in stop-and-go traffic.
ACDelco is one of the best car batteries that have surpassed all the quality parameters. With zero maintenance and excellent performance, these batteries will last longer than your car. Quite affordable and with a great warranty, ACDelco is the best in the automotive battery business. Get it installed and drive smoothly for years.
Odyssey PC680 car battery provides a fantastic service life, faster recharge time, and 80% longer life cycle than most conventional batteries. It features vibration resistance that protects against the shock while increasing the lifespan of the battery. It can also withstand extreme climatic conditions.