How to Be Considerate

Being considerate means taking the time to think about how others are feeling. To be truly considerate, you have to know how to put yourself in someone else's shoes, to have tact, and to be kind and gracious. Sometimes, we can get caught up in our own needs and wants and can forget that there are other people around who may be hurt or offended by our actions. Making a decision to be considerate can help us be aware of the people around us while still asserting our needs. If you want to know how to be a more considerate person, see Step 1 to be on your way.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Having a Considerate Perspective

1. Put yourself in someone else's shoes. Before you talk to your friend, co-worker, neighbor, or teacher, ask yourself how that person might be feeling just then. Maybe you're mad at your roommate and want to tell her she's too messy, or you want to ask your best friend to stop calling you so much. Well, before you have a conversation about how you really feel, you need to think about how the other person would react, and to put yourself in their frame of mind. While you shouldn't have to change what you want to say completely to suit another person's needs, thinking of the situation from the other person's perspective can help you best articulate what you want to say while minimizing hurt feelings.^[1]
   
   • Maybe your roommate is really messy, but she's also the one who does all of the grocery shopping. You should find a way to compliment her good qualities as well as her bad ones so she doesn't get defensive or feel like you don't appreciate her as a roommate.
   • Maybe your best friend is calling a lot because she's been lonely ever since her boyfriend broke up with her. You can still say what you want to say, but be considerate of her feelings and try to think of it from her perspective before you proceed.
2. Anticipate the needs of others. Part of being considerate is knowing what people will need before they even realize it themselves. If you're going out for lunch with your coworkers, put down enough napkins for everybody. If you're going to the beach with some friends, bring an extra umbrella for them. If you know your husband is going to have a late night at the office, leave some dinner waiting for him in the fridge. Keep an eye out for what people need, even before they realize it themselves, in order to be a truly considerate person.^[2]
   
   • People will be grateful and impressed by your thoughtfulness.
   • You shouldn't do this because you want something in exchange, but because you genuinely want to help people.
3. Be considerate of others when you're in public. A lot of people tend not to think of their surroundings when they're out and about in public. The next time you're out, think about how what you're doing may be perceived by other people, and how they would react. You may think that loudly talking to your best friend on the phone at a coffee shop where everyone else is trying to study is inoffensive, when in reality, you may be driving the people around you crazy. Here are some other ways to make sure you're being considerate in public:^[3]
   
   • Try to keep your voice at a normal level, whether you're on the phone or talking to friends
   • Avoid taking up too much space
   • If you're in class, avoid unwrapping something loudly or shuffling around so much that you cause a distraction
   • Look where you're going instead of texting and walking
4. Be considerate of other people's financial situations. Before you ask your friends or people you know to pony up for something, you should consider their financial situation as much as you can. If your friend is broke, don't suggest that you go out for dinner at the fanciest place in town — unless it's your treat. You may not think about this if your finances are settled, but you don't want to put other people in an uncomfortable situation because they can't afford to pay. Here are some ways to make sure you're being considerate of other people's financial situations:
   
   • If you're throwing a wedding, think about your guests. Can your bridesmaids really afford $200 dresses, or a trip to a bachelorette party in Tahiti? Can your guests really pay to fly across the country to celebrate you? Of course, it should be your event, but you should make sure that the people involved don't have to break their bank account to participate.
   • If you're hanging out with people who don't have a lot of money, find cheaper things to do, like going to happy hour or a dive bar or watching a fun movie instead of going clubbing or going to the theatre. Don't embarrass people by making them admit that they can't afford to do things.

[Edit]Being Considerate in Conversation

1. Choose your timing carefully. Part of being considerate is knowing the best time that you should say something. The most innocuous comment can come off as offensive if you say it at the wrong time. Make sure that the person or people you are talking to are in the right frame of mind to be receptive to your comment, and that you're not interrupting anything or causing complications with what you're saying. Here are some ideas for choosing your timing:
   
   • For example, maybe you have some great news to share, like you recently got engaged. This news can be perfect for brunch with your friends, but if your coworker is talking about his mother's funeral, then you should absolutely hold off on your big news.
   • On the other hand, if you have some bad news to deliver, make sure the person is in the right frame of mind as well. If your friend is gushing about her pregnancy, it's not the time to talk about how you just got dumped.
   • If you have to give negative feedback to a coworker, make sure you to it when the person isn't caught off guard. Set up a time to talk to the person instead of casually giving negative feedback when the person least expects it.
2. Choose your words carefully. If you want to be considerate, then you have to know that the words you use are just as important as the message you're trying to send. If you want people to be receptive and to not feel bad, then you have to carefully think of the words you'll use when you're speaking. Whether you're finding a delicate way to give negative feedback or even finding the right way to praise somebody, it's important to remember that words do matter. Here are some things to consider as you choose your words:^[4]
   
   • Even if you're giving negative feedback, you can find a delicate way to phrase it. You can tell a coworker he "could be more efficient" instead of saying he's "slow" or you can tell a needy best friend that you feel overwhelmed by her instead of saying she is "clingy" or "needy."
   • You can also make your message sound less offensive if you don't directly use the word "you" all the time. For example, instead of telling your boyfriend, "You are so paranoid," you can say, "I worry about the trust issues in our relationship." This still gets the message across without making your boyfriend feel like you're pointing a finger at him.
3. Don't monopolize conversations. Another thing inconsiderate people tend to do is to talk on and on without realizing that other people couldn't care less. It's one thing if you have a great story to tell, but if you're always the person who is talking and talking and don't let other people have their say, then it's definitely not considerate. The next time you talk in a group or individual setting, be aware of how much you're talking as opposed to everyone else. Make sure you give other people a chance to talk, ask how they are doing, and how they're feeling. ^[5] This is very considerate.^[6]
   
   • If you have a quick chat with a friend in the halls or at lunch, make sure you both have time to say what's up. If you just tell your friend all about your day and what you're doing next weekend and then say goodbye, that's not very considerate.
   • You should also be considerate when you think about the subject you're discussing. Would your co-workers really want to hear about your drama with your best friend they've never met? Or would your best friend really want to hear a long discussion about the meeting you had at work?
4. Thank people. It's also considerate to be able to thank people truly and honestly for something they have done for you. This could be something big, like letting you crash with them for three weeks while you looked for an apartment, or something smaller, like picking up coffee for you. No matter how small the deed, it's important to thank people so that they know that you appreciate them, and understand that you don't just expect people to do nice things for you. Make eye contact and give the person 100% of your attention when you say thank you so that you show that you truly mean it.^[7]
   
   • If you were an extended house guest at a friend's house or a friend or person did something really nice for you, send or give him or her a bottle of wine or a gift basket to show that you really care. Sometimes, just saying "Thanks!" isn't enough.
   • Get in the habit of writing thank-you cards to show your appreciation. This is a thoughtful and oft-forgotten gesture.
   • You can also go beyond just saying "thank you" and explain how much the person's action meant to you. For example, you can say something like, "Jackie, thank you so much for cooking dinner for me the other night. I was so stressed out with work that day, and you really helped calm me down."
5. Apologize when you've made a mistake. Even considerate people can have flaws. If you've made a mistake, whether you've truly hurt someone or accidentally run into someone, you should make sure to apologize for your actions. Don't just say "Sorry" and look away like you couldn't care less; make a point of making eye contact, telling the person how sorry you really are, and mentioning that it won't happen again. Taking accountability for something is much more considerate than brushing it under the rug because you hope it'll just go away on its own. Though apologizing can be unpleasant, the other person will appreciate it.^[8]
   
   • People who are considerate known when to apologize because they're aware when they've hurt someone's feelings, even if they didn't mean to do it. If you've hurt someone, don't say something like, "I'm sorry you felt bad when I..." This kind of language actually blames the other person and avoids responsibility.
6. Be tactful. Having tact is an important part of being considerate. Being tactful means knowing how to make a point without offending the people around you; it doesn't mean that you have to lie to get your point across. To have tact, you have to know how to give feedback or criticism in a kind, thoughtful way that gets the message across without causing any hurt feelings. You also have to be an active listener and be aware of the people around you so you can make sure they respond in a favorable way.^[9]
   
   • If you end up offending people, then they'll be much less receptive to your criticism. Giving information in a kinder way will make people feel better and will make them more likely to change; it's a win-win situation.
   • For example, if you want to tell your co-worker that he has been working slowly, you can say something like, "I think your projects are always so detail-oriented and thorough. However, I'm wondering if there's a way that you can maintain the quality of your work while boosting your efficiency a bit."

[Edit]Acting Considerate

1. Do nice things for people when you see they need help. Being considerate means recognizing when someone would need your help before they even ask for it. This can be anything from opening a door for a person on crutches to picking up lunch for your best friend when she's having a stressful day cramming for an exam. As long as you don't give help to people who really don't want it, you will be acting considerate. Keep an eye out for situations, big or small, when you could really help a person out. Always be observant to see if someone needs something, even if he or she is afraid to ask for it. Here are some examples of ways to be considerate:^[10]
   
   • Hold doors open for people
   • Pull out chairs for people
   • Make room for people who sit next to you
   • Let older people take your seat if you're on a bus or a train
   • Pick up coffee for a fellow coworker if you're going on a coffee run
   • Help your parents out by doing extra chores when they are clearly overwhelmed
   • Run an errand for a significant other or roommate
2. Have good manners. Another part of being considerate is demonstrating good manners. ^[11] If you want to be considerate of others, then you can't be rude, loud, or annoying in social situations. You don't have to be prince charming, but you should be able to have basic good manners so that the people around you feel comfortable and cared for. Whether you're hanging out with your friends or hanging out at your Grandma's 80th birthday party, you should demonstrate good manners, even if the meaning of "good manners" changes slightly depending on your audience. Here are some ways to have good manners:^[12]
   
   • Avoid cursing or being overly vulgar
   • If you burp, excuse yourself
   • Put a napkin on your lap when you eat and avoid getting food all over yourself
   • Don't loudly slurp your drink
   • Make room for people on the sidewalk
   • Avoid gross or inappropriate topics in front of the wrong audience
3. Share. Another way to be considerate is to share with others. Maybe you brought a delicious box of your mother's cookies to lunch and can't wait to devour them all, but you should ask your coworkers if they want any. Maybe you brought some awesome stickers to school that you can't wait to use to decorate your notebook. Well, ask your friends if they want in on the fun! You can also share your clothes, your space, or something else that means something to you with the people around you. Remember that, if you're sharing something you don't really care about, then it's not really sharing.^[13]
   
   • Sharing isn't just for little kids and siblings. It's an important quality of a considerate person at any age.
4. Be punctual. One of the most inconsiderate things you can do is to act like your time is more important than someone else's. You may not be doing this intentionally, but if you show up late — especially if you make a habit of it — then this is sending people the message that you don't really care about their time. Whether you show up five minutes late to class, half an hour late to work, or you show up forty-five minutes late to meeting a friend for lunch, this is definitely going to make the other person feel annoyed and like you don't care about his or her time.^[14]
   
   • Of course, if you're going to a party or an event with a lot of people, then showing up exactly on time may not matter — in fact, getting to a party the second it starts can actually be a bit awkward. But if it's you keeping another person or two waiting, then that is just plain inconsiderate.
   • If you know that you're going to be late, don't lie about your location ("I'm just a few blocks away!") because you think that'll make it better. Be honest about the fact that you're running 10 or 15 minutes late.
5. Do random acts of kindness. This is another part of being considerate. Instead of just being considerate of the people you know and love, you can also be considerate of complete strangers, especially those who could use a bit of attention. You can hold doors for people, put some money in the tip jar at your local coffee house, give a compliment to a person you pass on the street, give your parking ticket with an hour left over on it to a person who just entered the parking lot, or help carry an old lady's groceries to her car.^[15]
   
   • Making a habit of looking for opportunities when you can help people will make you a more considerate person.
   • Of course, you have to make sure the person truly welcomes the random act of kindness. You don't want to overwhelm someone who wants to be left alone.
6. Keep your space clean. It's important to keep your space clean, whether you want to be a considerate house guest, a considerate roommate or family member, or just a considerate human being. If you live by yourself, then it's a good idea to maintain a clean space anyway, but you should be especially considerate of other people around you. Make your bed, throw out your trash, do your dishes, and don't leave other people to do it for you. This is an important part of being considerate at any age.^[16]
   
   • People who are inconsiderate expect the world to revolve around them, and expect people to clean up their trash for them. This shows that they think they are more important than other people and expect that others will act accordingly. You don't want to be this person.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• Be patient with trying to learn this new personality trait!
• Go out of your way to do nice things for people.
• Practice makes (almost) perfect!
• Ask questions like, "How are you feeling?" Instead of just talking about yourself, when they might not be interested.
• Another way to practice being considerate is to volunteer as someone who works with kids; just make sure that you act like you believe the things they say even if you don't.

[Edit]Warnings

• Consideration's good, just don't be blind either and be lured into traps! If you feel like someone is taking advantage of your consideration or telling you to do something that seems dangerous, embarrassing or illegal, stop immediately and tell some one you trust!

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Be Polite
• Be Nice
• Be Sensitive to Other People's Feelings
• Apologize

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/hot-thought/201511/how-put-yourself-in-someone-else-s-shoes
2. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/evolution-the-self/201412/codependent-or-simply-dependent-what-s-the-big-difference
3. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/pieces-mind/201712/the-importance-kindness
4. ↑ https://hbr.org/2014/06/choose-the-right-words-in-an-argument
5. ↑ [v161196_b01]. 17 May 2019.
6. ↑ https://www.additudemag.com/speak-easy/
7. ↑ https://www.psychologicalscience.org/publications/observer/obsonline/people-underestimate-the-power-of-saying-thanks.html
8. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/articles/200207/the-power-apology
9. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/ambigamy/201407/how-be-tactful
10. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/between-cultures/201805/in-helping-others-you-help-yourself
11. ↑ [v161196_b01]. 17 May 2019.
12. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-moral-molecule/201207/why-manners-matter
13. ↑ http://oxfordre.com/psychology/view/10.1093/acrefore/9780190236557.001.0001/acrefore-9780190236557-e-272
14. ↑ https://www.concorde.edu/blog/health-care-training-punctuality
15. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/emotional-nourishment/201711/why-random-acts-kindness-matter-your-wellbeing
16. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-truisms-wellness/201607/the-powerful-psychology-behind-cleanliness

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How to Teach Children to Sing

Singing is an invaluable skill that many children love to learn. If you start teaching kids to sing young, this can foster a lifelong love of music. Start with basic notes and keys and then teach children a few songs and exercises. As singing is a technical skill, professional can help to really develop children's voices. However, even without the help of a trained coach, the children in your life can learn to love the art of singing.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Teaching the Basics

1. Warm up with yawning. Before you start practicing singing, have the children take a deep breath and then yawn. This will open the throat to prevent strain when singing.^[1]
   
2. Practice breathing. Children need to learn how to breathe properly when singing. Do some breathing exercises so they can understand how to regulate breath while they sing.^[2]
   
   • Have the kids breathe in through their noses and out through their mouths.
   • Encourage the kids to direct air into their stomachs and diaphragms instead of their chests. Have them place their hands on their stomachs and tell them to direct air so their stomachs rise.
   • Have the kids count when they breathe. Have them inhale for 4 counts and then exhale for 4 counts.
3. Find a note that comes naturally. Have the child sing something like "la" or "ah" and figure out what their natural pitch is. Use a pitch gauge to measure their pitch. You can also play a few notes on a piano or other instrument to find a note near the child's range.^[3]
   
4. Use the note as a base to explore scales. Once each child has their starting point, you can use this as a basis to explore common beginning scales. Walk them through a basic A/B/C scale, using a recording of scales to help. Start near the child's natural range and have them move up and down the scale as needed.^[4]
   
   • Don't worry if the child does not hit notes perfectly right away. The point is to get a rough feel of their pitch. You can work on accuracy later.
5. Illustrate scales and pitch with visuals. Children respond to visual cues. Raise your hand up and down to instruct a child to raise and lower their pitch. You can also try using body parts to teach the do-re-mi scale. For example, place your hands on your knees for "do," move your hands to your thighs for "re" and so on.^[5]
   

[Edit]Teaching with Games and Routines

1. Illustrate tone and pitch through singing. If you have a good singing voice, sing to illustrate tone and pitch. If you're teaching children, you can sing songs you're teaching first. If you're a parent, make singing a daily part of your routine. Sing throughout the day and sing your child lullabies each night.^[6]
   
   • If you're not a singer yourself, you can always play the child songs by talented vocalists.
   • If you're a teacher, encourage parents to sing to their kids at home.
2. Start with simple songs. You can look up age-appropriate songs online and even purchase song books for various age groups at a local bookstore. Children can benefit from learning simple classics, like "The Itsy Bitsy Spider" and "Mary Had A Little Lamb." These songs have simple words and melodies that teach the basics.^[7]
   
   • If you're a parent, download recordings of such songs online. Play them in the background while the kids are playing or doing chores to bring music into their lives.
3. Play pitch matching games. Sing a note like "la" and have the children repeat the note to you. Keep singing back and forth until they begin hitting the note. Sing a variety of notes across basic scales. This kind of imitation game helps children learn how to recognize tone and maneuver their voices to match it.^[8]
   
   • It can help to use a pitch gauge to make sure everyone is in tune.
   • To keep children invested, offer small rewards during the game. You can hand out stickers when the kids match the pitch, for instance.
4. Use call and echo songs. Call and echo songs are songs that involve children responding to prompts from a song's leader. The speaker may repeat the words back exactly or add an embellishment like "La-dee-da." These can be great songs to teach children to sing in tune. Many songbooks for young children contain these types of songs.^[9]
   
   • Examples include things like "Camp Town Races," "I Met a Bear," and "The Green Grass Grew All Around."
5. Have the kids make up songs. Get a little silly and fun by telling your singing pupils to make up songs themselves. Kids can sing songs about magic worlds, tiresome chores, fantastic eating, and more. You can have them use familiar tunes from classic childhood favorites or make up their own tunes. This is another way to expose children to music regularly, letting them learn about singing naturally throughout their day to day lives.^[10]
   
   • If you're teaching a class, try asking the kids to make up their own songs in teams.

[Edit]Enrolling Children in Classes and Extracurriculars

1. Enroll the child in extracurriculars involving singing. Many schools offer extracurriculars for free, so take advantage of this. If the child's school has a choir, encourage the child to enroll. If a child can pick optional classes for a given semester, encourage them to take classes that involve singing.
   
   • Extracurriculars don't always have to be directly related to singing. Things like band and even a music appreciate course can help develop the child's singing skills.
2. Hire a voice teacher. If it's within your budget, search online for local voice teachers. It can be hard to teach children the technical aspects of singing if you're not professionally trained. A personal voice teacher can be invaluable when it comes to teaching children to sing.
   
   • Look for a voice teacher with experience working with children. Children respond to different teaching methods than adults, so they'll benefit from a teacher who knows how to talk to kids.
3. Look for online lessons. Online lessons are often cheaper than professional voice teachers. You can buy access to an online course that will provide with materials you can teach. Online courses sometimes also include occasional evaluations from a real instructor via things like Skype.
   
4. Have the child join a choir. Look for children's choirs in your area and consider having the child sign up. If the child's church has a children's choir, for example, have them enroll. Singing with other children, under the direction of a professional, can really help the child hone their singing skills.
   

[Edit]Tips

• Encourage your child when you notice them singing without prompting or instruction. Some children may even sing to soothe themselves, which is a healthy and effective technique.^[11]

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Sing on Pitch

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ http://www.bbc.co.uk/sing/learning/warmingup.shtml
2. ↑ http://www.bbc.co.uk/sing/learning/warmingup.shtml
3. ↑ https://www.musical-u.com/learn/how-to-teach-someone-to-sing-in-tune/
4. ↑ https://www.thoughtco.com/teach-kids-to-sing-2994281
5. ↑ https://www.thoughtco.com/teach-kids-to-sing-2994281
6. ↑ https://www.thoughtco.com/teach-kids-to-sing-2994281
7. ↑ https://www.thoughtco.com/teach-kids-to-sing-2994281
8. ↑ https://www.thoughtco.com/teach-kids-to-sing-2994281
9. ↑ https://www.thoughtco.com/teach-kids-to-sing-2994281
10. ↑ https://www.thoughtco.com/teach-kids-to-sing-2994281
11. ↑ https://blogs.psychcentral.com/emotionally-sensitive/2012/04/self-soothing-calming-the-amgydala/

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How to Clean Crocs

Crocs are lightweight and comfortable, making them a popular choice of footwear for daily activities. After wearing your Crocs while working in the garden, going on a nature walk, or playing in the rain, they're going to need to be cleaned. With your main ingredient being soapy water, your Crocs will be shiny and new in no time.

[Edit]Things You Should Know

• Scrub your rubber crocs with water, soap, and a scrub brush. Use a magic eraser to remove tough stains.
• Have your sheepskin-lined crocs cleaned at the dry cleaners or handwash them with sheepskin shampoo.
• Wash canvas crocs with soapy water and a toothbrush. Then, wash out the suds with clean water.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Washing Rubber Crocs

1. Rinse your Crocs with regular water. Before doing a deep clean, rinse your rubber Crocs with plain water. This will remove the first layer of dirt and help you narrow down which parts need scrubbing.^[1]
   
2. Combine a mild soap with warm water in a bucket. Find a mild soap or dish detergent and squirt or pour a small amount in a bucket of warm water. You can also put a stopper in the sink and use the sink to clean your Crocs. Mix the soap and the water well.^[2]
   
   • The warm water will help break down the dirt, and a mild soap will ensure your Crocs aren't damaged by harsh chemicals.
   • If your Crocs are really dirty, you can add bleach to the water by filling up the bleach container's cap with bleach and mixing it into the water.
3. Let your Crocs soak in the bucket or sink while you're scrubbing. Once you’ve made a soapy mixture, put your Crocs into the bucket or sink to let them soak. They don't need to soak for a specific period of time before washing them, but keep them in the water the entire time you're scrubbing.^[3]
   
   • You can use pretty much any kind of soap for this.^[4]
4. Scrub dirt off using a scrub brush or rag. As the Crocs are soaking, use a scrub brush or rag to start wiping off the dirt. This may take several minutes, depending on how dirty your shoes are.^[5]
   
   • Use a toothbrush to get inside the vent holes or other places you can’t easily reach. Only use this toothbrush for household cleaning.
5. Use a generic or brand-name magic eraser for tough stains. If dirt or residue on your Crocs isn't washing off, try using a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. These are designed for tough stains and only need water to make them work. There are also generic versions that work well and are usually cheaper. Rub the eraser over the stain until it disappears.
   
   • Mr. Clean Magic Erasers and generic magic erasers can be bought at most drug stores, grocery stores, or superstores. If you can't find one in stores, order one online.
6. Rinse the shoes off and let them dry completely. Once you’ve removed all of the dirt from the Crocs, rinse them with plain, cool water. You can either dry the Crocs with a towel, or you can let them air dry.^[6]
   
   • If letting your Crocs air dry, don’t leave them out in the sun for more than a few hours — heat can cause damage.

[Edit]Cleaning Winter Linings

1. Choose an absorbent powder to help get rid of dirt. If you need to remove minor dirt stains or odor from your sheepskin-like lining, find an absorbent powder with a similar color to the lining of your Crocs. These absorbent powders will be helpful in absorbing all the dirt and oils from the lining, as well as helping to get rid of any strong smells.^[7]
   
   • Cornmeal, dry oatmeal, and wheat germ are all useful absorbent powders with neutral colors that will match most linings.
   • If your Crocs have a dyed lining, salt or baking soda are good absorbents.
2. Sprinkle the powder onto the winter lining. Make sure to evenly cover all of the lining, turning the Crocs around in your hands to cover them from different angles.^[8]
   
   • Salt won’t stick to the lining as easily as the other powders, so sprinkle a little extra to make sure it can do its job.
3. Let the powder sit for 3 hours before shaking it out. After roughly 3 hours, start shaking the powder out of your shoes. It’s best to do this over a trash can or sink, or shake them out outside. If there are still powder particles that aren’t coming out, use a handheld vacuum or vacuum hose to remove them.^[9]
   
   • To fluff your lining back up, you can use a wire wool brush. Make sure to brush it in one direction to prevent the sheepskin from curling.
4. Have the sheepskin lining dry-cleaned if necessary. Sheepskin won't look the same after it's washed, so you should avoid washing it in water for as long as possible. If it is really dirty, you can have the lining dry-cleaned by a professional to help keep its original texture.^[10]
   
5. Hand wash your lining if you don't want to have it dry-cleaned. If your sheepskin lining is really dirty but you don't want to take it to the dry-cleaners, you can hand wash it. Be aware that the lining won't look the same after it's been hand washed. Let the lining soak in sheepskin shampoo and warm water, and then rinse the lining in a bucket of plain water before letting it air dry.^[11]
   
   • The sheepskin will take 1-2 days to dry.
   • To help remove dirt, move the sheepskin around in the shampoo and water while it's soaking.

[Edit]Scrubbing Canvas Crocs

1. Remove shoe laces and soak them in soapy water if necessary. If your canvas Crocs have shoe laces, remove the laces and put them in a bucket or sink full of soapy water. Move the laces around in the water, rubbing the soapy water into them. Once they’re clean, rinse them with clean water and hang them to dry.^[12]
   
   • Use any type of mild soap, including detergent, dish soap, or even hand soap. Using a mild soap will ensure the canvas isn't damaged by harsh chemicals.
   • Whether the water is cold or warm is up to you, just don't use water that's super hot so as not to harm the canvas.
2. Scrub suds gently into the canvas using a toothbrush. Dip a toothbrush designated for household cleaning or other small scrub brush into the soapy water and scoop some suds onto the brush. Test out a small section of the canvas before scrubbing the whole shoe to make sure the fabric won't be ruined. Gently scrub the canvas with the toothbrush until the shoes are clean.^[13]
   
   • Don’t scrub over labels or print on the shoes to prevent them from coming off.
3. Use a laundry stain remover on tough stains. If your canvas Crocs have stains on them that aren't coming out using the toothbrush method, try treating the spots with a stain remover that you would use on your clothes. Follow the directions for the specific stain remover, but make sure you let it sit on the stain for roughly 10 minutes before rinsing the stain remover out.^[14]
   
4. Sponge the canvas with clean water to remove the soap. Find a cloth or sponge and dip it in clean water. Wring the cloth or sponge out so it isn’t dripping before gently sponging the shoes. This should help remove all of the suds.^[15]
   
   • Wringing the cloth or sponge out is important — you don’t want the shoes to become soaking wet after they’ve been cleaned.
   • You can also use the cloth or sponge to wipe dirt off of the rubber soles, if necessary.
5. Use a towel to absorb excess moisture before letting the shoes air dry. Pat the shoes with a towel to absorb extra water. Once the shoes are clean, you can let them air dry someplace warm, like in a sun room or on a porch.^[16]
   
   • Don’t leave the shoes out in the sun — this will cause the dyed fabric to lose its color.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• Crocs will warp if they're in the heat or sunlight for too long. Don't leave Crocs in a hot car or put them in a dishwasher or washing machine.
• If your Crocs have a strong odor, try burying them in cat litter or soaking them in a rubber safe enzyme solution.
• Spot clean your winter Crocs with lining by dipping a cloth in soapy water and rubbing off the dirt on the outside of the Crocs.
• Crocsbutter is a polisher made for Crocs that will help bring them back to their original shine.
• If you have a special pair of Crocs that are made of another material like leather, suede, or mesh, use a product suited for the specific type of fabric.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

• Mild soap
• Bucket or sink
• Scrub brush
• Cloth or rag
• Towel
• Absorbent powder (for winter Crocs)
• Handheld vacuum (for winter Crocs)
• Toothbrush (for canvas Crocs)
• Sponge (optional)

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ http://www.howtocleanstuff.net/how-to-clean-crocs/
2. ↑ https://www.ehow.com/how_5978441_wash-crocs.html
3. ↑ http://www.howtocleanstuff.net/how-to-clean-crocs/
4. ↑ [v161661_b01]. 19 November 2020.
5. ↑ http://www.howtocleanstuff.net/how-to-clean-crocs/
6. ↑ http://www.howtocleanstuff.net/how-to-clean-crocs/
7. ↑ http://www.howtocleanstuff.net/how-to-clean-crocs/
8. ↑ http://www.howtocleanstuff.net/how-to-clean-crocs/
9. ↑ http://www.howtocleanstuff.net/how-to-clean-crocs/
10. ↑ http://www.howtocleanstuff.net/how-to-clean-shearling-or-sheepskin/
11. ↑ http://www.howtocleanstuff.net/how-to-clean-shearling-or-sheepskin/
12. ↑ http://www.howtocleanstuff.net/how-to-clean-canvas-shoes/
13. ↑ http://www.howtocleanstuff.net/how-to-clean-canvas-shoes/
14. ↑ http://www.housecleaningcentral.com/en/cleaning-tips/stain-removal/canvas-stain-removal.html
15. ↑ http://www.howtocleanstuff.net/how-to-clean-canvas-shoes/
16. ↑ http://www.howtocleanstuff.net/how-to-clean-canvas-shoes/

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How to Spot Feline Diabetes

Has your cat been having some strange health issues lately? If your cat is overweight or a male over 8 years old, there’s a high chance they have feline diabetes. Fortunately, this condition is manageable with proper care, especially if you catch it early. In this article, we’ll tell you all the symptoms to look out for in your cat. If you notice any of these symptoms of cat diabetes, make an appointment with your vet for a diagnosis.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Weakness in the back legs

1. Diabetes can often cause a change in gait. Because feline diabetes can often affect the nervous system, some cats who suffer from this disease end up walking differently. Most cats walk on their paws, but diabetic cats often begin walking on their back hocks (the part of the leg above the paw that runs up until the first bend in the cat’s leg).^[1]
   
   • Diabetes can cause nerve damage (or neuropathy) that changes the way a cat walks.
   • Some diabetic cats will also change the way they walk because they’re in pain.

[Edit]Increased thirst

1. Your cat may constantly seek out water to drink. Diabetic cats aren’t able to absorb and use glucose properly, which leads to high levels of glucose being filtered out through the urine. When this happens, extra water is carried out of the body along with the glucose. This means that your cat is losing too much water and will start trying to counter this by increasing its water intake.^[2]
   
   • Watch your cat’s water bowl to see if the water levels are decreasing more quickly than usual.
   • Be mindful about whether your cat is searching for alternative water sources, like drinking out of the sink, the toilet, or other unusual locations.

[Edit]Excessive urination

1. Cats who drink more will also urinate more. Since the glucose in its body is leaving via urine, you may notice that your cat is peeing more often than usual. Clean your cat’s litter box regularly so you can monitor this symptom.^[3]
   
   • Your cat may also start peeing outside of the litter box. If this is a new behavior, this could be a sign that it has diabetes or other health issues.

[Edit]Weight loss

1. Unbalanced glucose levels may cause your cat to shed weight. Without proper glucose levels, cats can’t fuel their bodies. You may notice that your cat has lost a lot of weight recently, even though it’s eating the same amount of food. You can even try weighing the cat at home to regularly monitor your cat’s weight.^[4]
   

[Edit]Increased appetite

1. Diabetic cats often feel hungrier because they aren’t getting the proper nutrients. You may notice that your cat is constantly hungry or eats more food than usual. This could be because it isn’t getting the glucose that it needs from its normal diet, so it’s eating more to make up for it.^[5]
   
   • On the flip side, some cats will actually experience a loss of appetite as a symptom of diabetes.

[Edit]Distended abdomen

1. Your cat’s liver may be enlarged, which can distend its belly. Take a look at your cat’s stomach and see if anything looks large or swollen. If you notice any changes or your cat’s stomach looks enlarged, it’s most likely because of a health issue.^[6]
   

[Edit]Vomiting

1. Hyperglycemia can cause nausea and vomiting in cats. Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, happens when your cat has too little insulin in its body (or it can’t use its insulin properly). When this happens, your cat may feel nauseous or even throw up. This is a very common symptom of diabetes, especially if your cat has had undiagnosed diabetes for a while.^[7]
   
   • Frequent vomiting can lead to dehydration, which can make your cat very sick. If your cat is vomiting for multiple days or can’t keep food and water down, take it to the vet right away.

[Edit]Cloudy eyes

1. High blood sugar can form cataracts over time. This is a less common symptom for cats, but cloudy eyes can occur if your cat has had diabetes for some time now. If you notice your cat developing cataracts, talk to your vet right away.^[8]
   
   • Usually, you’ll see cloudy eyes as a symptom of diabetes in dogs, not cats. However, it can occur in both species.

[Edit]Rough coat

1. A lack of nutrients can affect your cat’s fur. It’s less common, but sometimes diabetes can be indicated by a change in your cat’s coat. If your cat’s hair looks rough or dull, it is most likely because of a health issue.^[9]
   
   • A change in your cat’s fur can also be caused by nutrient deficiencies that aren’t caused by diabetes. Either way, it’s a sign that your cat isn’t 100% healthy.

[Edit]Veterinary diagnosis

1. See your vet for a definitive diagnosis. If you notice your cat having any of these symptoms or it’s just acting strange, take it to the vet for an appointment. Your vet will test your cat’s blood sugar levels and do some lab work to determine if it has diabetes or not. If your cat does have diabetes, you can care for your cat by monitoring its food intake or injecting it with insulin if your vet recommends it.^[10]
   
   • Depending on what type of diabetes your cat has, you may be able to keep it in diabetic remission by putting it on a diet and exercise regimen.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Warnings

• If your cat is experiencing any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your vet right away for a diagnosis.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Litter Train a Cat
• Give a Cat Medicine

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.americanhumane.org/fact-sheet/feline-diabetes/
2. ↑ https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/cat/diabetes-in-cats
3. ↑ https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/cat/diabetes-in-cats
4. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6053045/
5. ↑ https://www.americanhumane.org/fact-sheet/feline-diabetes/
6. ↑ https://resources.bestfriends.org/article/cat-diabetes-causes-signs-diagnosis-treatment
7. ↑ https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/cat/diabetes-in-cats
8. ↑ https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/diabetes-pets
9. ↑ https://resources.bestfriends.org/article/cat-diabetes-causes-signs-diagnosis-treatment
10. ↑ https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/diabetes-pets

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