Before getting to the tips, first, it’s important to know how spices should be stored properly. The best way, often detailed on the packaging, is to keep them in ‘a cool and dry place.’ This ensures that they avoid direct light and moisture to stay fresh for longer. While using, too, the lids of the containers should be tightly closed to avoid any air from getting in. Also, it’s just good sense to keep in mind that everything in your kitchen has a shelf life, specific for each.

Experts claim that if stored properly, whole seeds like peppercorns and fennel seeds are good to use for three to four years, while ground powders like paprika, ginger, cumin, and cinnamon can be used for two to four years. Ground and whole leafy herbs like oregano, sage, seasoning blends, and thyme reach their expiration dates between one to three years of use. The miscellaneous staples of every kitchen, like salt and vanilla extracts, among others, can be used indefinitely while other extracts and essences, like almond or lemon varieties, can fade when used for two to three years. While some spices can be revived through roasting in oil, general consensus among experts claims that this should only be done when no other option is available.

Your seasonings don’t have a drastic change in appearance when they go bad, but undergo minute changes you need to be aware of. Fresh flavorings have a crisp and vibrant color which fades away when they go bad. This is the easiest and the most direct way to inspect the spices in your kitchen. Another way is to see the texture. While fresh spices are fine powders, spoilt or expired seasonings might show clumps that form due to the loss of essential oils. Spices have a distinct and alluring smell that might fade away through time. If your spices have maintained their strong smell, they are still in their prime. If not, you should toss them out.

When it starts getting warmer outside, most ladies start looking for ways to style their hair shorter. They either go for braids, ponytails, or a new haircut altogether. Well, if you’re considering a new hairstyle and have a particular love for the ever-chic bob, like actress Cate Blanchett obviously has, keep reading!

Cate Blanchett’s Razor Sharp Bob

This past London Fashion Week saw many celebrities rocking the bob hairstyle, including A-list actress Cate Blanchett. She decided to swap her wavy locks we’ve all known her for, and rock a new, edgier, straight bob look. Many celebrities recently made waves with their choice of the slick bob haircut, including Viola Davis and Emma Thompson.

Why Choose a Bob Hairstyle

There are so many benefits to cutting your hair into a short and chic bob. For starters, if your hair is dry and you have split ends that ruin your look, a bob will help nurse it back to health. You can choose the length and how to style it because bob haircuts have so many variations. You can keep it fun with cute hair clips or keep it light and wavy or straight, depending on your natural hair. It’s low maintenance, and it looks awesome, regardless of your hair type. Bangs, no bangs, center parting or a side parting for a softer look, you have many options!

Budget-Friendly Products for Maintaining a Bob Haircut

The Andrew Fitzsimons Shine Smoothing Shampoo

When it comes to straight bob haircuts, you need to keep your hair hydrated and shiny. This shampoo will definitely help keep your bob looking fresh and healthy.

Frederic Fekkai Full Blown Volume Conditioner

You don’t need us to tell you this, but using a conditioner each time you wash your hair is super important. Pick a volume conditioner like this one from Frederic Fekkai. To boost your volume, go through the bottom of your hair with a large round bristle brush.

Use Hair Oils

One of the best ways to rejuvenate your hair is by applying oils regularly. Some of the most efficient ones are:

• Coconut oil
• Olive Oil
• Castor Oil
• Argan Oil
• Jojoba Oil
• Tea Tree Oil