Search for the right company to make moving much easier

DEAR READERS: Moving can be expensive, so do lots of homework. First, get at least three bids in writing and make certain that the American Moving & Storage Association certifies the companies.

Then take these steps:

Make sure you understand the bid completely. You want a binding estimate. Read the fine print so you know precisely what’s included. Consider purchasing extra insurance.

Heloise

DEAR READERS: If you’ve been outdoors and come in contact with tree sap, get it off your garments as soon as you can. First, read the care labels. For washable clothing, here are two cleaning methods:

1. Buy a stain remover with dry-cleaning solvent (test the fabric for colorfastness). Place the sap-stained area face down on paper towels or a clean cloth. Then carefully squirt the solvent on the backside of the stain and press with another cloth to push through. Allow to air-dry.

2. Mix powdered laundry detergent (no bleach) with water to make a paste, and apply it to the stained areas. Let the mixture stay on the fabric for around 30 minutes. Then wash as you normally do. If the stain remains, sprinkle a couple drops of ammonia on the area. Note: Apply first on a seam to check for colorfastness.

Heloise

DEAR READERS: Old furniture can develop cracks or scratches over time. Wood furniture needs to have good polish applied to it so the wood does not dry out. If there are problems, take the piece to a furniture pro. But here’s how to take care of small issues:

Buy wax sticks that you can get at a hardware or big-box store. Match the wax stick color to the wood finish. It can cover up deep scratches or cracks in wood. Rub the stick into the crack until the wax is flush with the surface.

Then heat a putty knife in hot water and use the flat side of the knife to press across the area filled with the wax to make certain that you have an even, smooth surface.

Heloise

DEAR READERS: When the bread is all consumed, don’t throw out the empty plastic bag. Instead, you can reuse it in a variety of ways. Here are some:

1 Put the bread bag in your gym bag. You can use it to hold a wet swimsuit until you get home.

1 Place a bag or two in a diaper bag to dispose of a dirty diaper when you are away from home.

1 Line a coffee can with a bag and place it next to your kitchen sink. Use it to contain the wet garbage from cooking, then easily to toss it in the trash can.

1 Carry a couple of these bags when you walk your dog. You can use it to scoop poop.

Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, or you fax it to 210-HELOISE. Email heloise@heloise.com.