Fight summer stains
Dear Readers:
With all the picnics and family gatherings during the summer, it’s inevitable that food will be spilled onto clothing. There are many tough stains, but these are the top two that people write to me about the most. Here’s how to remove these pesky stains:
1. Ketchup or barbecue sauce
Right away, scrape off as much of the sauce as possible. If washable, soak the garment in cold water for about 30 minutes. While it is still wet, rub liquid laundry detergent into any stains that are still on the fabric. Then wash in warm water. 2. Mustard The minute mustard drips onto washable clothing, act quickly! Lightly dampen the stained area with water and rub liquid laundry detergent into it. Then soak the garment in hot water until you see the stain disappear. Finally, launder with an enzyme detergent.
— Heloise Dear Readers:
Before going on a trip with your pooch, check to make sure its collar or harness and the ID are attached securely. Bring along a copy of your dog’s medical records in case of an emergency. It’s important that you keep your dog in a carrier on a trip for its safety. Water, food and treats should be kept in containers with lids. Don’t forget to bring toys!
— Heloise Dear Readers:
Don’t toss out empty potato chip cans. Instead, recycle and repurpose them around the house. Have your children decorate the outside of the cans with stickers, glitter, etc. Try these ideas:
Store children’s crayons/markers, small toys or marbles.
Hold small items in a camper.
Store office supplies, like pencils, paper clips or rubber bands.
— Heloise Dear Readers:
For a change, try this quick way to serve wonderful summer melon. Don’t slice cantaloupes, honeydew or watermelons. Instead, scoop out pieces with an ice cream scoop or melon baller. Then pile the balls into dessert dishes. Enhance the melons with favorite toppings.
You won’t have messy rinds to deal with afterward.
— Heloise Dear Readers:
Over the summer, white plastic chairs can get really stained and dirty with all the use on decks or patios. Here’s how to clean off the grime: Make a solution of 3/4 cup household bleach and 1 tablespoon powdered or liquid laundry detergent mixed with 1 gallon warm water. Test on a small area to be sure it won’t discolor. Then put on rubber gloves and rub with a sponge or scrub brush. Let it stay on the chairs for around 10 to 15 minutes and rinse completely.
Dear Readers: Heloise — Heloise
If teens need a project before they go back to school, put your techsavvy children to work downloading all the fun family photos taken on vacations, at camp and at gatherings over the summer. Then they can create online albums, which can be sent to each family member when summer is over.
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