Finding a moving company
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, if that’s an option, to have plenty of coverage for potential damages. — Heloise
REMOVING SAP FROM CLOTHING
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 sapstained 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
WOOD FURNITURE HAS CRACKS?
DEAR READERS:
Old furniture can develop small 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 major 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
Send a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, or you can fax it to 1-210-HELOISE or email it to Heloise@Heloise. com. I can’t answer your letter personally but will use the best hints received in my column.