COMBINE MATERIALS TO CLEAN STOVE TOP
Soft and abrasive mix will do the trick; use vinegar or bleach with water for siding
Q How do you clean a natural gas, black stovetop?
A I also own a natural gas, black stove. In order to clean the surface as easily and effectively as possible, combine an abrasive product with a smooth product. Pour white vinegar onto the surface and sprinkle it with baking soda. Allow the surface to bubble and leave for 10 minutes. Use a non-scratching scrubby pad to scrub the area. Another option is to use dish soap and baking soda, the solution will not bubble, but this is still very effective.
Q We irrigate our lawn with river water and some of the water hits our house and garden shed.
It is starting to leave a stubborn stain. Is there a cleaning solution available that would work to get rid of it? I need to clean parging and vinyl siding on the house and the shed is painted wood. Any help would be appreciated.
A Get rid of stubborn water stains on vinyl and wood with one of the following solutions: Either combine 50/50 vinegar and water, or 50/50 bleach and water. If possible, use a pressure washer to clean the area. For difficult stains, scrub with a non-scratching abrasive cloth.
Q I often take dishes to potluck dinners or take meals to people struggling with difficult times. I’m looking for a way that I can write my name on the glass without it coming off in the dishwasher. Do you think that if I write my name on the dish with a Sharpie and bake it the marker will become permanent?
A Unfortunately, the Sharpie will most likely wash off in the dishwasher. Your best bet is to purchase a glass painter’s marker. You can use it to write your name on the bottom of your dishes. The marker is also handy for drawing new lines when they begin to fade on measuring cups.
Q What is the fastest way to open a jar of pickles with a stuck lid?
A Here are five techniques to try: 1) While wearing a rubber glove, twist the lid open. 2) Tap the edge of the lid in four places with the handle of a knife, hold and twist. 3) Hold the lid under hot, running water, dry and twist. 4) Wrap a rubber band around the lid, twist to open. 5) My personal favourite is to purchase a Mastercraft Boa Constrictor Strap Wrench at Canadian Tire for about $10. Secure the rubber around the lid, pull the strap and twist the lid open. It has never let me down.
SHARE YOUR BEST TIP WITH US
The kitchen tool that I use in order to quickly remove corn from the cob is a Bundt cake pan. Stand the cob in the centre hole and slice off the corn so that it falls into the pan.
Skim fat off hot soup by dropping an ice cube into the soup. The fat will draw to the surface and can easily be scooped out.
I collect shower caps from hotel rooms and use them as bowl covers for leftover foods.
As soon as you feel a cold sore coming on, regularly apply Vicks VapoRub to it, making sure it remains on the outside of your mouth.
Note: Every user assumes all risks of injury or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first.
Reena Nerbas is a motivational presenter for large and small groups. Check out her website at reena.ca, where you can ask a question or share a tip.