Melted dishcloth put tarnish onto stainless-steel pot
Q Firstly, I recently boiled a stainless-steel pot completely dry. When I took it off the hot element, I put the pot on a dishcloth that must have had a lot of synthetics in it — most of which melted and adhered to the bottom of the pot. Is there a way I can remove this hard, black material? Secondly, my white lamp shades have little brown spots left behind
by insects. Is there a way to remove them?
A In response to the first question: Purchase a bottle of Goo Gone, apply a thick layer of the product onto the steel pot. Using a razor blade, gently scrape the melted cloth off the pot. For the second question: Using a soft toothbrush wipe the brown spots with a mixture of dish soap and baking soda or non-bleach, nongel toothpaste. Rinse with plain vinegar.
Q Do you have any ideas of a good substitute for sour cream?
A Combine 4 drops of lemon juice with 1 cup (250 mL) whipped cream. Let sit for 30 minutes. Or use plain or vanilla yogurt, depending on what you are making.
Q I have an Under Armour athletic garment that has bad body odour smell in the armpits. I wash it after every use; however, I cannot get the foul smell out. Any suggestions?
A Soak Under Armour in 50/50 white vinegar and water for a few hours before tossing the entire contents into the washing machine. Wash with hot water and machine dry, so the fabric dries quickly. I also contacted the Under Armour Company and they recommend soaking the gear thoroughly for 30 to 60 minutes in a solution of ½ cup (125 mL) of baking soda mixed with 2 quarts (1.9 L) of water.
FEEDBACK FROM READER
Re Dishwasher Woes: I just read your advice regarding a reader’s dishwasher not working properly. It will work better and last longer if he scrapes the food off his dishes first. I rinse mine well, and there’s no problem. After 30 years, I just got a new one. Works great. I am horrified at what some people put in their dishwasher and say it should handle it — they are dishwashers, not garburators.
SMART TIP
The best way to remove tape and grease residue from items: put paint thinner on a cloth and rub till it’s gone; won’t harm the item. Submitted by: Lily.
COMFORT FOOD
Homemade Chocolate Pudding! Makes: 4 delicious servings In a double boiler stir together: ½ cup (125 mL) sugar, 3 tbsp (45 mL) unsweetened cocoa powder, ¼ cup (60 mL) cornstarch and a pinch of salt. Set the temperature to medium heat; stir in 2¾ cups (680 mL) milk. Stir constantly and bring to a boil until mixture is thick enough to adhere to the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and add 2 tbsp (30 mL) butter and 1 ½ tsp (7.5 mL) vanilla. Serve warm. Refrigerate to store. Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website: reena. ca. Ask a question or share a tip at reena.ca
Disclaimer: Every user assumes all risks of injury or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first.