Welcome to Shopping and Product Reviews


Saturday, December 23, 2006

A Guide For Coupons Online Offer Supers Savings

You don't have to pay retail prices on most major brand names any more. Now you can rack up huge savings on popular stores such as Walmart Jc penney's and even many of those super expensive prescription drugs with just a click of the mouse when you visit www.gogoshopper.com . Gogoshopper Makes finding and saving on the cost of goods and products a snap with our real time coupon savings system that allows you to quick find just what you are wanting to purchase.

So why use internet coupons? You just might be thinking, and the answer is really simple. Millions of people want to buy certain things that are really just a bit to expensive for their budget like a new computer for dell. Normally the cost would be a big stumbling block but thanks to dell coupons it slashes down the cost and people who are coupon clippers can save even hundreds on dell products.

Additionally offering these coupons really boost product sales for most companies and that is why the concept of discount coupons is good for both the seller and the buyer alike. These coupons offer a discount of nearly 25 to 50% concessions on your purchase. With these coupons in hand, even a person making his living on undersized pay packets can also fulfill some of his desires.

There was a time when discount coupons were only offered through newspapers, magazines, etc. however, these days; internet coupons have become very much popular. These are usually found on the websites of the companies. These require you to fill some personal information in order to obtain the discount coupon. Another advantage of using online discount coupons from gogoshopper.com for the customers is that they can test a new product using coupons at super discounted savings.

With the reach of the internet expanding day after day, it is now the best method to reach out to your customers. Every second there is a customer searching for product coupons for stores like Target jcpenneys Walmart. Did you know there are even Amazon coupons and you can get overstock coupons as well?

Smart people are always looking for ways to minimize their expenditure and save some money. So by providing free online discount coupons, your product and your company will come into the view of the customer and hence your business flourishes. It is a very good way to increase your clientele. This is such a fun and innovative way to promote one's business. All the top retailers advertise savings for their customers online. Small businesses are finally grasping the concept.

Let's recap some of the advantages why discount coupons are so popular. Using our select coupons is easy and hassle free for buyers to save plenty of money on name brand items. Unlike the coupons from magazine and newspapers which can be used only once, online coupons can be used any number of times. Customers can download coupons easily from the company website and this increases the popularity of the company.

It is easier and cheaper to obtain discount coupons on the internet as you don't have to buy newspapers or magazines to get them.

5 Great Tips for Shopping for Office Supplies on the Internet

Before anyone can think about shopping for office supplies on the Internet, they must familiarize themselves with the office supplies of the new millennium. Sure, there are still pens and pencils, paper and paperclips, clipboards and conference folders in every office supply shop, but the inventory list has grown to include some rather untraditional items that weren’t even heard of a few years back. Just 10 years ago, who would have thought to log onto your neighborhood office supply shop and order a satellite navigation system or a 10-pack of DVD+RW? It makes you think a bit, doesn’t it?

With that in mind, think for a moment about what you need in office supplies today and what you might need in 5 years. If your office supply shop doesn’t carry the latest in today’s technologies, just how is it gong to take you into the future? To help you find the perfect office supply shop on the Internet, we’ve going to share 5 great tips to set you onto the right track.

Your ideal Internet office supplier will have:

Tip #1- A Solid Technology Department. Enough said.

Tip #2- Free Shipping. What is the point of shopping online for your office supplies online when you have to pay for shipping? We’re not saying that you should be able to purchase a box of staples and have the shop cover the shipping charges, but they should be able to pay delivery costs when you purchase £30 worth of product.

Tip #3- A wide assortment of office furniture. We’re not referring to just desks and chairs and filing cabinets, but coat racks, umbrella stands, lighting and clocks, too. These tiny details can make or break the comfort of your employees as well as customers that may visit your location from time to time.

Tip #4- Break/Lunchroom/waiting room supplies. Your office probably needs a regular supply of coffee and the cups that hold it, paper towels to clean up our spills, and microwave ovens to heat up our leftovers. Having employees “take turns” just isn’t a reliable option, nor is it fair to ask those who work for you to flip the bill for something they may not even use. Plus, if you’re running a few pounds short for your free delivery, you can always find something that’s needed in this department.

Tip #5- Creativity Supplies. Making a solid presentation that has an impact calls for more than black and white; you need color and creativity to coincide. While computers have made our lives much easier, we cannot forget that not everyone is software savvy. Computers have been known to crash from time to time, and the show must still go on. It might be a wise idea to re-familiarize yourself with what some consider an antiquated medium- We call it paper, colored pencils and magic markers.

Friday, December 22, 2006

Residential Tanning Beds - What To Look For When Buying A New One

So you’ve decided that you want your very own tanning bed. Congratulations! Owning a tanning bed can be one of the best investments you could ever make if you care about your appearance. But what next?

When it comes to buying a tanning bed, things can get quite complicated. There’s many different things you need to consider, and tanning beds are all quite expensive. So you don’t want to make ethe wrong decision, because it will cause you a lot of stress and frustration.

Fortunately, I’ve got a few pointers to help you out with buying your tanning bed.

So let’s get started:

One of the most obvious yet important tips to give you, is to do your research! It can be difficult to find objective information about tanning beds offline, because most of the material you find will be from manufacturers trying to sell you their brand.

But with the advent of the internet, it’s very easy to just hop online and find some impartial reviews. This is a very good idea if you’re a first time buyer of a tanning bed. You can quickly and conveniently find reviews and opinions of the different types and brands of tanning bed, to help you find the right one for you.

Another thing to consider is the tanning bed’s bulbs or lamps. Are they easy to replace? How long do they last? How much do they cost? This is about the only part of your tanning bed you should need to replace, so it’s important you know these details bfore you buy a tanning bed. You don’t want to buy a cheap tanning bed, only to find out later on that the bulbs are notorious for being difficult to change, or expensive.

You’ll also want to know if you’ll have to hire someone to do the maintenance, or if it’s possible to be done by yourself.

And finally, you need to get a good feel of the different features available for most tanning beds. This will help you work out which features you really want, and which you can live with out.

So if you put in a little research time, you should be able to save yourself some money and get the best tanning bed for your needs.

Nike+ And The iPod Sport Kit - Bringing Fitness And Music Together!

Have you ever wanted to know exactly how many calories you have burned while power walking? Have you wondered how far you ran on your last exercise jog? Many pedometers do this, but what if you wanted to compare these results with what you did yesterday, and the day before? Even if you are not a data-driven runner, the Nike+ iPod Sport Kit puts together a system that enhances your run, power-walk, or just a long walk while in sync with music from your iPod nano.

Fitness and working out will never be the same again. The technology now is remarkable and Nike and Apple have outdone themselves. Even though this system using the Nike + iPod Sport Kit is unique to these companies, more will surely follow. For now, getting to understand the technology will put you miles ahead when other competing products hit the market.

Basically, it's simple. Put the sensor from your sport kit into your modified Nike shoe. Hook up your iPod. Plug in...and go! Your iPod tracks in detail your exact results. It monitors the calories you have burned in your run. It can tell you how far you ran in distance. You can even set your music to run at a tempo in sync with your run!

This seems unbelievable, since until now, all we have had to use for step counting are unreliable pedometers. The Nike+ iPod Sport Kit has revolutionized the workout routine. Music is a great motivator in your workout. iTunes has done a great job making your favorite tunes available to download into your iPod. But now, you can build a library of songs AND accumulate the details of your actual runs over a period of time...all with your iPod!

Nike apparel is now available that allows you to insert your iPod into little built-in sleeves fit just for the iPod nano. For now, the nano is the only iPod the sport kit is made for. That's ok though since the sales of the iPod nano have never been stronger. The assumption is that a large majority of people have them and they use them mostly for the purpose of some kind of fitness workout. So, Nike figures you need apparel suited just for this purpose and it's logical you don't want to drop or lose your iPod nano. The apparel pockets for the iPod nano also assist in keeping the unit dry during your workout, thus, reducing the likelihood of damage.

Whatever you decide to do about tracking the details of your exact run, remember that Nike and Apple have "written the book" on the technology for the iPod Sport Kit. More will be available from other competitors, but wouldn't you rather have the real McCoy? NikePlus.com has plenty of information about how to download your results, track and analyze your results, and share your results with communities of runners like you. The Nike+ iPod Sport Kit will last and is here to stay!

Thursday, December 21, 2006

The Savvy Shopper's Guide: Lowest Price Online Shopping for Hot Gift Items

If you're going to be a savvy online shopper, finding the lowest price for hot gift items is going to require a little work - but it's worth it. Here are some quick tips to improve your online shopping skills and to empower you to find those low prices you've been dreaming about!

Find Quality Products

Search for the brand names you trust before considering prices. The reason for doing this is you'll still want excellent quality even if the price is low. Searching for a low price only may result in getting a low-quality product. You're only wasting your time and money when buying items of poor quality. This is especially true with high-ticket gift items in electronics, games and toys, sporting goods, luggage and computers.

Shopping at Small Online Stores Versus Online Shopping Malls

Both small online stores and online shopping malls have their advantages and disadvantages. At small Web stores, you can usually enjoy a more personal shopping experience and find specialty items that you might not find anywhere else, online or off. However, these types of stores are usually limited in what they offer, and they might only focus on one particular type of product. These tend to be higher-priced on gift items as well.

At online shopping malls, the experience is more similar to that of shopping at large department store. You have a variety of categories to choose from, and can usually get items at a low price. These "low price" online shopping malls are great when you need to buy several gift items at once. They usually offer a wide selection of housewares, electronics, giftware, games and toys, headsets & phones, fragrances, candles, lingerie items, and much more.

A disadvantage of using a mall is you may not always find the brand name you're looking for, but a similar one is usually available. Also, you should check to be sure the items will be shipped quickly enough to give the gift to your loved one. Some online malls use international distributors or manufacturers to ship items, so be informed before you buy.

*Extra Tip: No matter where you shop, look for sales and bargains over the holidays to get the lowest prices while shopping online!

Use the Power of the Search

Finding the lowest price is easier than ever once you learn to use the "power of the search!" The Internet is built on searches, but millions of people still do not understand "how" to search for what they want. You can start with major search engines, and type in specific items or brand names you want to buy. Be very specific at the start. Then, if you are unable to find the specific item, do general searches.

Why More And More People Are Buying Fruit Baskets Online

Gift giving is big business today. Strategic planning will ensure the gift is right for each person and best reflects the intent of the giver. A responsible consumer looks for a measure that gives most for their money. A selected purchase, that is an expression of love or goodwill at Christmas time or other special day, may be a singular note, the only greeting of love for the Holiday Season. It must be right. Since consumerism dominates every scene, it is wise to consider all available options. Cost is a variable with the measure of quality and availability.

Ordering Fruit Baskets Online has become appealing to many people. Sales have increased the last two years. Vendors offer both fresh and dried fruit baskets, with slightly lower prices for assortment. The consumer has the option to choose whatever they want. Some Vendors offer organic fruits, grown without the use of pesticides and fertilizers. In the last two years, the marketing of organic foods has increased, with more varieties as well as new choices. Consumers have responded positively to the added choices and consumer satisfaction continues to show approval. Competition has a new role, as organic produce is now available for regular prices.

There is a range of options for fruit baskets sold as gifts. The thought is a practical expression, a consumable gift to be shared. Some baskets include fruit, chocolate, nuts, cheeses, and wine. The complete gift becomes a gracious exchange of special items. Those enjoying the fruit basket remember the giver. Sometimes a Certificate is mailed to the recipient and they choose the contents of their basket.

The holiday season still drives the profits of gift companies. Catalogues carry the message and gifts are shipped through the mail. With increases in shipping rates, postage and handling has increased as well. Some catalogs base shipping charges on the price of the item, others on its weight. For some, a flat fee is charged. Nevertheless, shipping expenses are excessive.

Online sales began their business using some of the tactics of the catalog companies, but online sales adjusted their prices to include shipping. To order online, the consumer must have a computer and a credit card. The order is placed online and paid for and the item is shipped. There is no turn-around mail lag. Last minute ordering is quick and delivery can be ensured.

Ordering fruit baskets online offers some unique choices. The gift can be gourmet, presented in a festive way. This may match preferences outlined for a special gift, not available locally. Fruit Baskets may contain vintage wines, tea, preserves, or other exotic things. With the inclusion of these unique items in the fruit basket, the gift increases in value. Fruit baskets online offer the best choices for a gift for a special person. Whether you choose the contents of the basket or present a Certificate, a Fruit Basket Online is a gift that will be appreciated and enjoyed.

Wednesday, December 20, 2006

How To Choose Seasonal Gift Baskets For Someone Special

Gift baskets are popularly given to friends and family around holiday time or special occasions. You don't have to have a special occasion to give somebody a gift basket; if somebody has done something special for you it is a great time to give him or her a token of your appreciation. You can make a gift basket with anything that you want in it.

Some people choose simple things like candy, fruit, wine or toys; while other people choose to make more elaborate gift baskets that include handmade gifts or expensive electronic gifts.

When deciding to give somebody special a thank you gift basket you should consider the things that make them most happy. Find things that are important to them and put them in their gift basket. You may want to shop at the local sporting goods store, or flower shop, perhaps even the local video store. You can choose any type of items to put in a gift basket, get creative and make it your own. You really are only limited by your own imagination.

If you are limited on time, you may try buying a premade gift basket. You can look at your local stores like craft stores, grocery stores, and flower shops. But one of the best places to look for gift baskets is on the Internet. There are a variety of places on the Internet to purchase gift baskets or gift basket supplies.

When purchasing gift baskets or supplies online you should do your research first and only shop at reputable online companies. Look for companies that have been around for a long time in companies that have physical locations. You may also want to look for companies that have a telephone number so you can talk to a live person and discuss the specifics of your gift basket. A good online company should have full contact information easily available to you.

After finding a few reputable online gift basket companies, then you can begin comparing online stores for the best prices. When choosing the store to use for your online purchase of a gift basket you may even consider looking at online forums to see what other people are recommending.

5 Hot Christmas Toys For Ages 8 To 11

Will there be smiles and looks of excitement on the faces of your children or grandchildren when they open their Christmas gifts? There will be lots of smiles if you take a look at these Christmas gift suggestions.

According to Amazon, these will be some of the hot Christmas toys for 2006. Start shopping for these toys now and you will get them in time for Christmas and probably at a good price. Wait and you either won't be able to find them or you will pay higher prices.

Number 1 - Barbie in The 12 Dancing Princesses: Interactive Princess Genevieve "Let's Dance™" Doll
Barbie dances and interacts in three different ways, including two interactive modes. In "Performance" mode, she performs multiple dance routines to her own recorded music. In "Teach Me" mode, she actually shows and tells you how to perform each dance movement ("Arms overhead", "Now, spin"), one at a time. She then has you imitate the movements. And finally, in "Play With Me" mode, Genevieve will move her arms and left leg in direct response to your movements when you wear the included wrist and foot controllers.

Number 2 - Leapster L-Max Handheld Learning Game System
This is part of the award-winning LeapFrog Leapster products. Players interact on the handheld screen and see the results on their TV. There are multiple skill levels, learning tutorials, and unlimited educational fun. Your children won't even know that they're learning. Turns your TV into a super learning machine. Just pop in one of Leapster’s many software games and let them learn as they play.

Number 3 - LEGO Mindstorms NXT
With the Quick-Start Guide you can probably have a robot built in about 30 minutes. The drag-and-drop programming interface uses pre-programmed objects that you pull from a palette and snap to other objects build and program robots that do what you want. The NXT also has built-in Bluetooth wireless technology so your robots could be truly wireless. A really great learning tool.

Number 4 - Twister Dance DVD - Milton Bradley Interactive Games
This really a simple concept: Put the DVD in the machine, place the 2.5-foot square mat in front of the TV, and dance following the onscreen prompts. In Learn mode, an animated choreographer shows you the dance moves step by step. There are 40 dance lessons that start slow and simple and gently add complexity as you go along. Dance mode increases the tempo and strings the individual dance moves into a dance routine. This is fun. Show off your dance moves and learn some new ones.

Number 5 - Here & Now Edition Monopoly Board Game
This is an updated version of the original board game with a new twist on the classic property trading game. There are new tokens including the Toyota Prius, New Balance Shoe, McDonald's French Fries, Labradoodle, Motorola RAZR Mobile Headset, and a Laptop Computer. As far as properties, new additions include Boston's Fenway Park, Las Vegas Blvd., Houston's Johnson Space Center, Nashville's Grand Ole Opry, and Minneapolis' Mall of America. You'll love the new Here & Now Edition.

So there they are, 5 hot Christmas gifts for ages 8 to 11. Don't let your children or grandchildren be disappointed at Christmas. Start shopping for these Christmas gifts now!

Tuesday, December 19, 2006

Airsoft Guns Shopping Guide

It’s been said in many circles that paintball guns may have seen their time in the spotlights, and airsoft guns are the wave of the future. Still others think this theory is ridiculous, and lovers of paintball will continue the legacy that paintball has left. But one cannot overlook the impact that airsoft guns have made with gun enthusiasts all over the world.

It all began in Japan, where any type of genuine gun ownership is strictly prohibited. The laws of the country didn’t stop the love of the weaponry, it merely created a space of airsoft guns to live and breath in the community. Instead of shooting bullets, BB’s or plastic balls filled with paint, airsoft bullets (plastic balls) are used to hit the targets.

Unlike paintball guns, airsoft guns can be exact replicas of even the most covert firearms available. In fact, many militaries are using airsoft rifles, pistols and other firearms for training purposes, due to their authentic look and feel.

Now that you’ve got the basics down, you need to know what to look for while shopping for airsoft guns and their accompanying accessories.

First of all, just like with any purchase, you’ll find the best selection and deals over the Internet. But just like any purchase made online, you need to be sure that the company you’re dealing has been around for a while and has a solid reputation. One positive sign is a physical address listed on their website, not just a P.O. box and email contact information.

And while we’re on the topic of the World Wide Web, be sure that the company you choose is secure and that the security of your payment and personal information is one of their primary focuses.

Now that we’ve covered safety, let’s cross the path of the guns themselves. Not only should your dealer have a wide variety of airsoft assault and sniper rifles, pistols and support weapons (like M80s), but also ammunition, clothing, baggage, gear, parts, silencers, as well as any other accessory that you could possibly think of. You need to think a bit down the road, too, for even though one particular weapon might suit your fancy now, you might just fall for something a bit bigger down the road. It would be a bummer to build a solid reputation with one dealer now, only to have to switch down the road.

The Exciting World of Boots

It is probably the Neolithic man who stitched the first pair of boots that protected his feet and legs. The need to walk through rough terrain laid with pines, stones and what not, perhaps, got him up on his thinking brains to come-up with something that protected his feet while being strong enough to endure the torturous treads. Except for refinement, thanks to the intervention by some highly skilled cobblers aided by technology, they are now objects of fashion statements while still being able to retain the original shape and utility.

Welcome To the Exciting World of Boots

As is the norm today, boots are no more confined to their original purposes. Nevertheless they are more a fashion statement than being protective gears. Cowboys of the yesteryears championed the footwear fashion movement with bold designs by hand-crafted boots. Take a look at the few examples here, each one unique in design and statement.

1. ‘Exotic skin cowboy boots’;
2. ‘Handcrafted cowboy boots’;
3. ‘Lace-up western boots’;
4. ‘Casual boots’;
5. ‘Smooth leather cowboy boots’;
6. ‘Retro design cowboy boots’;
7. ‘Buckaroos’;
8. ‘Leather outsole cowboy boots’;
9. ‘Barn boots’
10. ‘Pointed-toe boots’;
11. ‘Zipper boots’

When we talk of fashion, mention has to be made of fur boots, which ruled the roost for quite sometime before being banished. Fur boots were the rage of the high society and a dream of every quintessential fashion wannabe. It is only that the position has now been taken over by fake fur made of smoothest acrylic.

Boots invariably had influenced dressing sense too. Especially for teens, skirt and sock lengths continuously changed to suit the boots. A short skirt went well with a knee high boots while socks changed lengths very often.

Hiking Boots

When you are preparing for a hike the most important object you are going to lack is hiking boots. Your ability to enjoy a hike rests heavily on your feet and the comfort and support they are going to obligate. Gym shoes are not built to shaft the grating terrain and rocky paths. You should select a couple of boots that are designed for the type of hiking you are interested in. If you are going to be largely in hilly areas with established paths you won't need the most bulky duty boots around. You should find a pair of boots that feels comfortable and provides the stability.

Work Boots

Why would anyone want to wear boots to office? Well, young women still prefer boots with winter wear or boot cut jeans and skirts. For men, it’s a bit different. Working in the fields, deep jungles, trekking, all need you to wear boots. Don’t you worry; they are designed to satisfy you in terms of comfort levels too. They meet the specifications set out by orthopedic surgeons and physiotherapists. The double lined soft inners soothe your feet while the outers protect you. Did I hear some cool, tough guy growl at this

Monday, December 18, 2006

Pink Phones from Samsung: Add a Colour to Your Life

Samsung pampers the fair sex by launching a range of pink phones that are elegant to look at and are packed with the latest multimedia features under their delicate pink covers.

Newly launched, the Pink Samsung ZV40 3G phone incorporates a wide range of top rate features and is small, lightweight and definitely sophisticated! Measuring just 89 x 47 x 25.5mm, it comes in an attractive baby pink colour.

The ZV40 clamshell supports all UMTS based services and includes an integrated MP3 Player supporting MP3/,AAC and AAC+ music files.

With the 40MB of shared memory, there is plenty of storage space for your photos, videoclips and music files.

The Samsung ZV40 also features a fully integrated digital camera with a photo resolution of 1280 x 960 pixels and video resolution of 176 x 144 pixels, 4x digital zoom, 180 degree rotating lens and photoflash, to click the perfect moment and view it right away or preserve it for later viewing.

The Pink Samsung ZV40 is an extremely exclusive phone and simply a must have fashion accessory for the girls! If you prefer a slider phone then the E900 Pink is for you. The E900 Pink is a premium 'slider' phone from Samsung, with an attractive styling design, packed with top features and has a brand new user interface.

A unique feature of E900 are the touch sensitive keys which light up when in use and then fade out afterwards. Thanks to its heat-sensitive keys you can get the exclusive Samsung E900 Pink going with just the warmth of your touch.

The E900 is also superior in technology terms than the other rival phones in the market. With a subtle 2 tone exterior, flowing lines and a super smooth sliding action the E900 is perfect for the ladies. Just 16mm thick and 93g in weight it still manages to feature a 2 megapixel camera with video and EDGE multimedia technology.

It's also the first phone from Samsung to feature the new user interface which shows the sub menu list from the main menu and highlights fonts for optimal viewing. Memory is expandable via microSD which comes into it's own when you're shooting video and you can play it back straight onto your TV screen too! With MP3 player, bluetooth and so much more the Samsung E900 will certainly be high on many a 'wish list' this year.

Spice Up Your Love Life with Romantic Gift Baskets

Love is a special emotion and only those in love know how it feels to be in love. It is about sharing the joys and sorrows of life together and being there for each other in good times and bad. Life gives us various occasions to express our love for that special someone and to celebrate romance. Whether you wish to express your love for someone in a special way or want to revive your love life, unique and elegant romantic gifts are just perfect.

Talking of romantic gifts, what you give is important but its presentation is equally important. Romantic gift baskets are perfect in terms of both. You can go for romantic gift baskets with chocolates, candles, jewelry, personalized gifts, beauty products and more. There are various websites offering romantic gift baskets for many occasions like Thanksgiving, Valentine’s, and even Halloween. Believe us. The designer romantic gift baskets on occasions can make your day truly memorable. Let’s find out how.

  • Valentine day romantic gift baskets: Valentine’s as we all know is the day to celebrate love and togetherness. Many romantic couples go for a romantic dinner or a day out to celebrate this special day. To make this day extra special, gift a valentine day romantic gift basket to your partner. This way you can make your and your partner’s Valentine’s Day truly memorable! Check out romantic gift baskets available at stores online and pick the one that you think your partner would like.
  • Thanksgiving romantic gift baskets: Don’t miss the opportunity to thank your partner for their love and affection on this day. Nothing can be more special for your partner on Thanks Giving day than a Thanksgiving romantic gift basket from you. Thanksgiving Gift Basket can contain lavish confectionary items, cakes, and scrumptious gourmet chocolates and more. Make it unique and enjoy a romantic Thanksgiving!
  • Halloween romantic gift baskets: Halloween day is not for kids only. If the idea of Halloween romance excites you, Halloween romantic gift baskets are for you. You can make the best of this occasion by gifting your partner a Halloween romantic gift basket and enjoying Halloween candies and chocolates that are nicely packed using the Halloween theme. You can also go Halloween romantic gift basket containing sweet candies and cookies. So get ready for the most romantic Halloween of your life!
  • Holiday romantic gift baskets for her: The idea of going for a holiday with your partner itself is so romantic. Don’t you think! Make your holidays unforgettable for life by gifting Holiday romantic gift baskets to her. She will truly love your idea and will shower all her love on you.
  • Sunday, December 17, 2006

    Why Buy Organic and Fairtrade Cotton Clothes

    All these uses make it one of the most popular and widely traded commodities on earth.

    Cotton is a globally important fibre, providing returns to many small farmers in developing countries. Fairtrade cotton has just been released in the UK providing job security and greater incomes to farmers. But the downfall is that most cotton is produced in a way that causes great damage to the environment as is it is one of the most chemical intensive crops in the world. High productivity comes at great environmental and health costs.

    So serious are the negative impacts of chemical-intensive agricultural production, that momentum for change has grown considerably in recent years. The trend toward more environmentally friendly production methods is mainly due to enlightened companies under pressure of increased environmental regulation and competition, and informed consumers calling for greater social and environmental accountability.

    In many African countries with lax environmental controls, farmers can apply nearly one-third of a pound of chemical fertilizers and pesticides for every pound of cotton harvested. Some of these chemicals are classified as the most toxic around and the negative impacts can be severe. The simple act of growing and harvesting the amount of cotton fibre needed to make a T-shirt takes an enormous toll on the earths air, water, and soil, and has significant impacts on the health of people in cotton growing areas. These carcinogenic chemicals can leave residues on the skin, and it is now argued that these are associated with allergies. Organic cotton is therefore kinder to the skin. For more information visit the Pesticide Action Network site at

    Organic cotton begins with living soil. This means the soil has not had any chemicals used in it for at least three years and it has been enriched with compost and other organic matter. These replace synthetic fertilizers that are harmful to the health.

    How To Compare And Evaluate Printer Cartridge Suppliers

    It has always been difficult to compare printer cartridge suppliers. They all used different methods of testing their cartridges, and the specifications from one couldn't be compared with another.

    This has changed in the last couple of years, however. In mid-2004 most of the top ink suppliers started to work under the International Standards Organization's requirements for testing monochrome inkjet cartridges.

    The ISO is recognized for developing standards for many different industries to offer a standardized, unbiased way of comparing or rating products.

    With the ISO standards for printer cartridges, it give the consumer a reliable way of comparing brands and manufacturers of ink. The reported yield from their cartridges are all determined using the same methods, so the numbers are directly comparable.

    The following are the things that are specified in the ISO standard:

    • The test prints must use the printer's default settings
    • The tests are performed under strict temperature controls
    • Both the cartridges and the printers used for testing must be available to the average consumer
    • 9 of each cartridge must be tested for statistical validity
    • 3 cartridges must be tested on 3 different printers to eliminate a single printer causing the numbers to be skewed

    Aside from raw numbers, you should also consider some other things when deciding on your ink supplier. These things include delivery, reliability, and general quality.