HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR READERS: Today’s Sound Off is about recycling:

DEAR HELOISE: We live on one planet with dwindling resources and a growing population. Why don’t people recycle as much as they can? I would encourage those who think it’s too much trouble to recycle to reconsider. Got an empty can or glass bottle? Just a quick rinse under the tap and into a recycle bin or bag it goes. My husband and I don’t have kids, but we feel we are custodians of the planet, not owners. Let’s all recycle paper, plastic, glass and metal, and leave this world in better shape. — Charlotte M., Green Bay, Wis.

DEAR READERS: Here are other uses for cat litter: Use to absorb fresh oil and grease on the driveway or garage floor.

Use under tires on icy streets.

Use to reduce odors and moisture in a basement.

DEAR HELOISE: Girls no longer seem to receive hope chests upon graduation from high school in anticipation of getting married, so I bought one at an estate sale. I took it home and lightly sanded the interior to bring out that cedar scent. After vacuuming and wiping the interior, I used it to store sweaters, parkas and other winter clothing and wool blankets. I may not be thinking about marriage right now, but I am thinking about moths not eating my favorite sweaters.

— Lucy R., Ohio

DEAR HELOISE: I had a problem with snails and slugs, but I used a trick my grandmother always used. We kept eggshells in a bag in the refrigerator. When we had a fair amount of shells, we’d crush them and sprinkle the broken eggshells around our plants. Snails and slugs won’t crawl over the sharp pieces. Hamster litter made from cedar had the same effect.

— Jean O., Florence, S.C.

DEAR HELOISE: I clean houses for a living, and more often than not, I have to clean windows. Most people think using newspaper is the best way to get streak-free windows, but it’s not. It used to be, but the newspapers changed the ink formulation, and that made all the difference. Instead, use a soft cloth (microfiber is best) and a little vinegar (½ cup) in a gallon of water. Don’t use too much liquid, or you’ll get lots of streaks. Spray and wipe.

— Lynn G., California