HELPFUL HINTS
DEAR HELOISE: We could have had a serious accident happen, and I want to warn others. If you have a large bookcase, china hutch, big screen TV, etc., be sure to secure it to your wall so it won’t tip over
My 4-year-old son tried to climb our bookcase and it tipped over. Thank heavens it landed on a well-padded chair, which kept the bookcase from crushing my child.
— Katie in Connecticut
DEAR HELOISE: My wicker furniture in the family room needs a good cleaning, but how? Everything I’ve read says to not use anything too abrasive, don’t get the wicker too wet, and so on. So how do I clean furniture that’s in great shape but dirty?
— Zoe in Georgia DEAR READER: First, vacuum your wicker furniture with the brush attachment. You’ll need to remove any cushions on the furniture and wash them separately. Next, wipe the furniture with a damp sponge — damp, NOT soaking wet. If stains are stubborn, use a few drops of mild soap in the water. If you spot mold or mildew stains, dip your sponge or cloth in one part vinegar and three parts water. Be sure to wring out the sponge or cloth before rubbing it on the stain. Let the wicker dry completely before replacing the cushions.
DEAR READERS: Whether it’s a swimming pool, a lake or the ocean, all children need to learn water safety. It’s important to remember these simple hints:
■ Teach children to swim and be sure you can swim. It’s never too early or late to learn.
■ Never leave your kids by themselves near water. Always keep an eye on them.
■ Never assume someone else is watching your children.
■ Learn CPR, and if you have teenagers, make them learn as well.
■ Install the necessary alarms, barriers and covers in the pool area to keep your children safe.
DEAR HELOISE : I scratched my laminate floor while moving a heavy dresser. What can I do to fix it?
— Abby in Tennessee
DEAR READER: Find a shoe polish in a shade close to the floor color. Using a cotton swab dipped in the shoe polish, press it into the scratch, let it dry, then rub with an old cloth. You may need to repeat the process. If that doesn’t work, look for a scratch repair kit.