Dear Donny

QI have a black ceramic electric cooker and two of the hot plates have got a greyish film on them. I have tried every cleaner but nothing is removing it.

Marion Richards, by email

A You’re looking for a white scourer pad (not the green ones) that does not scratch, such as Oakley flexible cleaning pads. Also try Delphis Eco Professional Ceramic & Induction Hob Cleaner (£4, Amazon). It’s excellent. Q

We have damp spots on our bathroom ceiling. Is it possible to paint over them and, if so, what would you recommend? Jackie Picton, by email

A You need to ventilate the room as the damp spots are caused by steam condensing and causing mould. I’d use Polycell 3in1 Mould Killer which removes the mould and prevents it from returning, then apply Zinsser B-I-N Stain Killer & Sealer followed by the paint of your choice. Q Can you give me any tips to stop a rug from sliding all the time on a carpet? I have tried everything, all to no avail.

Eva Lynott, by email

A Anti-slip rug underlay usually does the trick. You can apply a few beads of undiluted PVA or wood glue to fix it to the rug. Once the glue has dried the rug should grip the carpet.

DONNY’S TOP TIP

Mould will form if there is dampness and will always come back at the same spot. Only once the surface is dry can mould then be removed.

Q My mum has a limestone fireplace which has a smooth but not highly polished finish. She fixed rubber letters spelling out Merry Christmas across the front of the fireplace but they’ve left a dark image behind in the stone. Any ideas? Sue Robinson, by email

A As it’s limestone you need an alkali cleaner. I’d try Lithofin Power Clean as this will remove most stains. You could then apply a stain protector once you are done.

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