Hints from Heloise

Dear Heloise: Can a FEATHER DOWN QUILT be cleaned at home safely? I live in a rural area with no dry cleaners. Any help is appreciated. — E. Gall, Hot Springs, S.D.

Yes, you can clean it at home; most do NOT have to be dry-cleaned. If there is a laundry facility near you, it probably will have large-capacity washers and dryers. This job can be done there quicker and more easily than at home.

Most important: Check to be sure the seams are secure. If the quilt was handmade, or is very old, DON’T put it in a top-load washing machine — it just may fall apart!

Do check the care label. You should be able to use a washing machine. Do wash it by itself. Do use mild laundry liquid detergent and the delicate cycle.

Do use an extra rinse or two to remove all the soap.

Do place it in the dryer alone. Do dry on low temperature for longer time, not on high heat for less time. — Heloise

ALL-PURPOSE CLEANER

Dear Heloise: I have been using your cleaning solution for about a year. I am ready to make a new batch, but I have misplaced the recipe. Can you please reprint it? — E.M., via email

Happy to reprint it for you. Here is the recipe for one of my all-purpose cleaners. You will need: * 1/2 cup of ammonia * 1/2 cup of rubbing alcohol * 1 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid

Mix the ingredients together with enough water to make 1 gallon. Put in a clean bottle and label clearly. Do wear gloves, and don’t let children play with this.

There are so many cheap cleaning solutions that you can make. To receive the best money-saving recipes, order my pamphlet. Send $5 and a long, self-addressed, stamped (70 cents) envelope to: Heloise/Cleaners, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001. Don’t forget to always have vinegar and baking soda handy. These two are great for grease and grime and general cleaning. — Heloise