HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR READERS: Who knew so many readers had hints about recycling insulated foam boxes? Here is a small sample:

Sonia in Nebraska says, “Foam boxes are perfect for protecting breakable items when traveling or shipping.” Pam in Maryland says: “My husband came up with a game where the grandkids s tack them to the ceiling, then get to knock them down. The fun lasts forever.”

Michele in New Hampshire says, “Why not donate them to Meals on Wheels or a similar program?”

Victoria in Washington says, “Insulated boxes are great for arts-and-crafts projects at schools and day-care centers.”

Diane, via e-mail, says, “This past Christmas, my neighbor lady wrapped festive bows around them to look like presents and placed them outside among her shrubbery as decorations.”

Lynn in Maryland says, “I have used foam coolers to provide a home-cooked meal to new parents or parents-to-be.”

These are all great hints! Keep them coming! Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or e-mail

DEAR READERS: Uses for popcorn cans, from a reader in Kansas:

As recycling or trash containers. As storage for pet food. As storage for seasonal decorations.

To hold umbrellas or walking sticks.

As storage for sewing supplies.

DEAR HELOISE: My keyboard console slides out. It was constantly sliding back while I was working, and it was becoming a big hassle. I took an extra-large binder clip, found at any office-supply store, and clipped it to the track after sliding the keyboard out. Now it stays in place, and my work isn’t interrupted.

— Colleen in Colorado

DEAR HELOISE: After adhesive bandages are removed from my grandchildren’s scrapes and bruises, there is a residue that is very difficult to remove. Any suggestions?

— A Reader, via e-mail DEAR READER: Try either baby oil or lotion. Apply a generous amount to the bandage before removal or on the residue that is left behind. Let soak for a little while, then gently remove the bandage or glue.