Donate to veterinary clinics
DEAR HELOISE >> I just wanted to give a friendly reminder to consider donating clean, gently used towels to your local veterinary clinics. I have also spotted a great towel sale and bought a bunch for a nearby clinic. Their need is incredible. Believe me, they will be so grateful.
As a side note, some clinics may accept unused pet meds (still within their expiration date) as long as it is in the prescribing bottle. This goes for special shampoos as well. Please call first, though, as guidelines may vary. In some cities, there's a specific group that accepts pet meds, and your local vet clinic can give you that information. Thank you.
— Mary A., Vancouver,
Washington
DEAR HELOISE >> When washing my bedsheets each Wednesday, I also toss in whatever else that's in the laundry hamper. Over time, I noticed that whenever I dried the load, small items such as socks and washcloths would invariably lodge in the pockets formed by the contour sheet elastic corners. They usually did not dry very well and often went forgotten until I found them later.
I discovered that if I place all of the other wet items in the dryer first, then add the contour sheet last, small things don't get “lost” in a corner anymore.
— Jim R., Houston
DEAR HELOISE >> I recently lost my husband this past summer. As I was sorting through things, I came across our wedding cake topper that I was saving for our 50th anniversary in six years. My first thought with all the emotions I had been going through was to throw it away.
Thankfully, my daughter saved this from happening and suggested making it into a Christmas decoration for the tree. So, my daughter-inlaw lovingly created it into a memorable keepsake. I was able to sit, reflect and enjoy it this year.
— B.G., in Iowa
DEAR HELOISE >> Because I take several prescription medications and supplements, I find it tedious when asked to write them all on a form in medical facilities. So, I have found a way that saves time and frustration:
I enter the name of the drug, dosage and prescribing doctor on a document, which I then copy and paste onto adhesivebacked labels. I carry several in my wallet so that I can easily adhere one to any document that requires this information.
— Miss Donna
DEAR READERS >> When you buy a new leather couch, read all the cleaning and care instructions in the manuals that come with your sofa. Certain leathers may need different care, so follow the cleaning guides that are recommended by the manufacturer.
And here's one key rule for your sofa: All spills must be cleaned up as soon as possible! Never use alcohol-based cleaners, abrasive cleaners or even furniture polish because they may contain solvents that could damage the leather.