Improve it: Paint-mixing lid

Updated: August 22, 2012 - 10:57 AM

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Mixing Mate can lid from Rockler Woodworking and Hardware has a built-in mixing paddle with a crank handle, so you can stir the contents before you open the can.

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Paint-mixing lid

Rockler Woodworking and Hardware has a new lid for quart-size cans that makes it easier to store, mix and pour paints and finishes.

The Mixing Mate has a built-in mixing paddle with a crank handle, so you can stir the contents before you open the can. A spout with a spring-loaded trigger -- much like the spout on a syrup dispenser -- makes it easier to pour out the paint or finish without drips or spills.

Cam clamps lock the lid onto a standard-size can, creating a tight seal. The device is made of nonmetal components, so it can be used with both water- and solvent-based finishes and latex paints.

The Mixing Mate sells for $14.99. It's available at Rockler stores and retailers that sell Rockler products, or it can be ordered from the company's catalog or website, www.rockler.com.

New iron saves energy

Rowenta has introduced an energy-saving iron.

The Eco Intelligence Iron has a sole plate that concentrates steam on the fabric so less steam is lost, meaning less water needs to be used. It's also designed to optimize steam output to save energy, the company says.

The iron has an ergonomic rotary trigger for both left- and right-handed users. Like other Rowenta irons, it has a narrow tip for reaching narrow areas and a stainless steel sole plate that resists scratches.

The iron can be ordered for $96.24 plus shipping from www.qvc.com.

Dander-cleaning bulbs

Purely Products' Pet CFL light bulb promises to remove pet dander and other allergens from the air.

The compact fluorescent bulb generates negative ions, which attract tiny, positively charged particles of airborne pollutants. Those particles bond with the negative ions and make them heavier, causing them to fall out of the air eventually.

The company says the bulbs remove a variety of irritants besides dander, such as smoke, mold spores and dust.

The Pet CFL bulbs come in 7, 9 and 15 watts. Those produce roughly the same amount of light as 25-, 40- and 60-watt incandescent bulbs, respectively.

The bulbs can be ordered at www.purelyproducts.com. Prices range from $9.79 for a single 7-watt bulb to $29.99 for a four-pack of 15-watt bulbs. Shipping is extra.

AKRON BEACON JOURNAL

Stronger cleaning vinegar

H.J. Heinz Co. is bottling 1-gallon jugs of Heinz All Natural Cleaning Vinegar, a new product that it says is 20 percent stronger than traditional distilled white vinegar. The suggested retail price is $3.79.

Heinz suggests that the more powerful vinegar would be good for cleaning windows, glasses and laundry stains, among other things.

A company spokeswoman said the new product will still be safe for use in cooking, too.

PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE