Baking soda can help solve many frustrations

Q Can you please tell me how to remove built-up hairspray from my hair?

A Typically, shampoo is the best solution for removing hairspray from hair. For a deep cleaning treatment, add 2 tbsp (30 mL) baking soda to the amount of shampoo that you are using. Scrub into hair, leave for 15 minutes and rinse with water.

Extra tip: To remove hairspray from walls, use rubbing alcohol and a scrubby pad. If this does not do the trick, your next step is to clean the wall with shampoo, diluted in warm water. Another wonderful option: Apply shaving cream to the stained area. Leave for 5 minutes and scrub.

Q I would love to know what to use to remove a bathtub ring.

A Clean the bathtub on a regular basis. You may need to wash out the bathtub weekly or more often, depending on how often it is used. While wearing gloves, sprinkle a dampened green abrasive cloth with either baking soda or washing soda and borax. Wet and scrub until the tub is clean. Rinse and dry with a rag. For tough stains, apply 3% hydrogen peroxide/baking soda or cream of tartar and 3% hydrogen peroxide. Put cream of tartar in a bowl and drip in hydrogen peroxide until you have a thick paste. Apply the paste to the stained area and let dry; scrub away the dried paste and watch the stain disappear. For really tough stains, use Iron Out according to the directions on the bottle.

FEEDBACK

Re: Recipe for killing moss

You recently printed a recipe to kill moss. Baking soda is all you need. I had it all over my yard last year and I sprinkled it on the moss and within hours it was browning. The best part is you don’t have to worry about it raining after application because the baking soda just soaks in and continues to work.

Submitted by: Lori

Re: Solution for heat marks on wood

Here is a remedy for a heat- or moisture-marked wooden table. Any professional furniture/ antique restorer will make a paste of ashes and water rub it in, and the mark will be gone. Submitted by: Lori 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. Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website — reena.ca — to ask a question or share a tip.