HELPFUL HINTS
DEAR HELOISE: My husband’s workshop has no plumbing, and therefore no running water for hand-washing. I fill an empty liquid laundry-detergent jug with water and place it next to a roll of paper towels. The spout allows easy access. It’s great for camping, too.
— Judy C. in Paragould
DEAR HELOISE: Your response to Carole regarding her concerns about environmental issues prompted a question.
The trash company sent a notice that everything that goes in the recycle container must be clean (pizza boxes are unacceptable because of the grease). I use a bit of water to clean things before putting them in the recycling receptacle. During extreme drought, what would be recommended?
I use the end of the dishwater when possible, or stick items in a free space when I run the dishwasher. It makes sense to rinse the item before the remnants of food or drink have dried.
— Nancy, via email
DEAR READER: Most recycle centers just want the can or carton to be reasonably clean, not a drippy, greasy mess. A quick rinse (or even wiping out with paper towel) is all that is needed.
For people in areas following water conservation and/or restrictions, it’s better for us to save water. One ingenious reader pulled the top off the toilet tank, dipped the cans in there and used that water to flush.
P.S.: If you have other hints, please send them along.
DEAR HELOISE: Kittens are naturally curious and will get into just about anything. Please keep the toilet-seat lid down at all times to avoid a tragedy. My kitten fell into the toilet and couldn’t get out. Fortunately, I was home and heard him. He was wet, but none the worse for wear.
— Carol B., Spokane, Wash.
DEAR HELOISE: With five dogs, keeping my light carpet clean is a challenge. And when it’s rainy, snowy or muddy outside, forget it.
I was hurrying out the door and the dogs scampered in from the backyard wet and muddy. Ugh! I had to go because I was running late. When I got home, the paw prints had dried. I took a stiff brush and gently loosened the paw prints. A thorough vacuuming, and the prints disappeared.
— Lucia in Texas
Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email Heloise@Heloise.com