Nail polish reminder saves frustration when using outlets

Dear Heloise: It seems like I always try to insert my USB cables the wrong way, sometimes several times in a row. I put a small drop of nail polish on the top side of my cable, using different colors for different ones. For example, one charger cable inserts into my wall outlet one way and my desk computer a different way, but I have pink and purple marks showing which ones are a match, and that makes it simpler to plug things in.—R.W. in Canada

LIFE WITHOUT A WRINKLE Dear Heloise: I have a question: How do I keep the tops of my flat sheets flat? All of the top sheets develop nonremovable creases in the top “cuff” area. Pulling these flat before drying, ironing them and very carefully folding them doesn’t solve the problem, and it really annoys me!—Sue O’H., via email

Sue, it’s usually recommended to use the permanentcycle on the washer and dryer, if available. If not, for the washer, use warm water and a slower or shorter spin cycle. For the dryer, use a high temperature and about 10 minutes of air drying. Remove items from the dryer as soon as it stops, and hang or fold them. You probably will have to iron the “cuff” using a spray starch and a steam iron.— Heloise

AMERICANO COFFEE Dear Heloise: I’m a 71-yearold woman, and I’ve been traveling to Europe for years. I’ve heard Americans complaining about how “lazy” or “shiftless” the locals are while they are sitting on a stool in a coffee bar in town. Recently, in Italy, I was with people who didn’t understand the European coffee bar or the language. If you want a cup of coffee with cream (at least in Italy), order an “Americano.” A cappuccino is drunk only for breakfast/brunch. And here’s a tip: Always try to learn a few words in the language of the country you’ll be visiting.— June L., Ventura, Calif.

RETURN TO SENDER Dear Heloise: When you move into a new house, office, etc., sometimes mail arrives for the former occupants. Instead of bringing the mail into the house to write “Return,” I leave a pen in the mailbox. Problem solved.—Marc T., Woodstock, Va.

LOST LUGGAGE Dear Heloise: Just a few thoughts on preventing lost luggage: If you are traveling, remove all the old travel tags from your luggage. I always place my identification on the inside as well as the outside. Don’t use your home address, but instead your office one— or, better yet, use a business card as ID. Avoid traveling with expensive luggage, because it attracts thieves. Be sure to claim your luggage as soon as possible, and never leave your bags unattended.—Tyler H., New Bedford, Mass.

UNSPOKEN RULES Dear Heloise: There are some unspoken house rules that every guest should adhere to when visiting friends or family:

n Volunteer to help with dinner and cleanup. In fact, INSIST that you contribute in some significant way. Take your host and hostess out one night for dinner.

n For heaven’s sake, make your bed every morning. Don’t leave your room a mess.

n It wouldn’t hurt you to bring the hostess a useful gift, either. A bottle of wine, a nice dessert or anything the hostess can use or enjoy.

— J.O., via email