Hints from Heloise

Dear Heloise: Please repeat your hint on checking GRILL BRUSHES for loose bristles. I had one stuck in my throat after eating a hot dog, which had picked up a stray bristle while on the grill. Thanks! — C.F., via email

You’re right! It is worth mentioning again, so here goes! If you clean your grill with a wire brush, remember to t ake a wet paper towel and wipe down the grates afterward. This will catch any stray bristles and prevent them from being transferred to your food. Also, consider using alternative tools, such as nylon scrubbers or grill “stones” that are made from recycled materials. — Heloise

HOTEL ROOMS Dear Readers: When you are a road warrior like me, your hotel room becomes your home away from home, and I like it to be as quiet as possible. That’s why, when booking hotel rooms, I request a room away from any potential noise. I don’t want a room facing street traffic or a room close to the elevators, ice makers or laundry rooms. My Heloise hint: Ask hotel staff, when making reservations, to reserve your room far away from any potential noisemakers. — Heloise

NEW STYLE Dear Heloise: I have a hint for making old jackets new again. Take off the original buttons (this works particularly well if the buttons are just for decoration). Add buttons with a unique shape or color for a completely new, inexpensive, updated l ook. — Cathy M. in New Mexico

BLUSH IN A PINCH Dear Readers: Running out of blush can make any girl’s morning drab. In a pinch, put a bit of lipstick in your hand and add a drop of moisturizer. Mix well; pat it on your cheeks and blend. This will give you a nice, natural color without the powder! — Heloise