Want to Improve Your Memory and Focus? Try This

Exercise isn’t just for your body — your mind can benefit from a good workout too. And research shows that learning another language is one of the best ways to stay mentally fit.

How it works: Diving into a foreign language has big-time benefits, from improving your memory and focus to slowing the onset of dementia. Fortunately, you don’t need to reach fluency to start seeing the payoff. In a study published in 2021, researchers found that older adults’ memory and focus improved in as little as four months of studying Spanish.

To get started, join a language-learning class at your library or download an app. Then see if you can find ways to practice what you’re learning every day. Next time you’re grabbing groceries, how many fruits and veggies can you name in your new language? Try to beat your total on each grocery trip.

Another important thing: Consider seeking out a local group that meets regularly to practice speaking and help retain what you learn. Research shows that social interaction can benefit your brain, too, and increase your happiness.

Want to know more? Check out our three top tips to make learning a language easier in our Today’s Tips podcast below. Another fun way to give your brain a boost? Try improv.

More Tips From This Week

Thursday

Oh No! Spill Wine on Yourself? Try This

Nothing stains a good time like a splash of red wine on your favorite shirt. But there’s a secret trick for preventing long-term damage: blotting the stain with more wine — white wine that is, not red.

How it works: It may feel counterintuitive to pour more vino on top of a wine spill, but white wine can dilute red stains and is a perfect quick fix if you happen to be sharing a bottle of each. Use a splash of white to blot any red spots, then follow up with a clean wet cloth to get out the rest.

Take note, it’s important to be gentle. Scrubbing will only make the stain spread.

Another important thing: Don’t have a bottle of white already open? Blot hydrogen peroxide mixed with dish soap on lighter clothes (be careful, hydrogen peroxide can bleach a little) or try salt on darker clothes.

Want to know more? We have a whole list of other weird cleaning hacks — from using mayo on wall stains to grapefruit on soap scum — that make life a little easier. And if that red wine is also staining your teeth, we have some advice on how to handle that too. Plus, in our Today’s Tips podcast below we remind you of a few places you never clean but should.

Wednesday

The Best Temperature for Better Sleep

The right room temperature just may be the secret to sounder sleep. Set your thermostat between 60 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit to create optimal snooze conditions.

How it works: A study published in 2012 shows that sleeping in warm temps can disrupt our sleep cycle, specifically REM and slow-wave sleep. To avoid nights of tossing and turning, keep your bedroom on the cooler side.

Unfortunately, experts say there isn’t one magical number to dial on your thermostat. But a good rule of thumb is to stay within 60 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. If you find yourself waking up in sweat regardless, opt for sheets made from natural fibers, such as cotton and linen, which are the most breathable and cooling.

Another important thing: Another key to unlocking sleep is avoiding bright light. To signal to your body that it’s time to wind down, try taking small steps to reduce your exposure before bed, such as using low-light table lamps instead of overhead lights.

Want to know more? It’s hard to beat a good night’s sleep, and we’ve got 43 ways to help you achieve it. Plus, learn how to find your best sleeping position and why you should skip the snooze button in the morning.

Tuesday

The Everyday Item You’re Probably Not Washing (But Should Be)

You know those reusable bags you take to the grocery store every week? Yes, they’re great for the environment, but if you’re not washing them regularly, they’re also pretty gross.

How it works: As reusable bags are carted around from place to place, they turn into a party spot for bacteria. In fact, researchers say there’s more E. coli and fecal bacteria in many reusable bags than you’d find in your underwear.

But that doesn’t mean you should ditch your BYO bag habit. Simply toss the bags in the washing machine after every use, and always use hot water.

Another important thing: If you’re using reusable bags to tote packages of raw meat, it’s a good idea to designate specific bags just for that. Leaked meat juice can contain all sorts of bacteria, which quickly multiply when storing your bags in the back of a hot car.

Want to know more? We have 15 more items that may have missed your cleaning list. Plus, check out these surprising hacks for keeping your house sparkling clean. And if you need to clean up in a hurry, we’ve got some advice for you in our Today’s Tips podcast.

Monday

Garage Sale Shopping? Don’t Buy These Items

Yard sales are often a great place to snag sports gear at much lower prices — but skip the bike helmets. While used helmets are typically more affordable, they’re likely not as effective.

How it works: Unfortunately, even the best bike helmets have an expiration date. The protective elements break down over time, and if a previous owner was in a collision, it could make the shelf life even shorter. Plus, washing the inside of a helmet isn’t an easy task, and the foam often collects not just other people’s sweat but potential allergens and bugs too. No, thank you.  

Another important thing: Car seats, cribs and even high chairs also have expiration dates. When secondhand shopping for your grandkids, stick to plastic toys, books and puzzles.

Want to know more? Check out our full guide on how to sort the steals from bad deals at your next garage sale outing. Prefer to shop online? We’ve got strategies for online thrift store shopping too.