HELPFUL HINTS Strange Brew

DEAR HELOISE: Do I really need to spay or neuter my pets?

— A Reader in Philadelphia DEAR READER: Spaying or neutering your pets is, in fact, one of the best things you can do for them. The benefits are many. According to the Humane Society of the United States (humane society.org), neutered or spayed animals:

■ Live on average 20% longer than unneutered ones.

■ Have a reduced risk of cancer.

■ Are less likely to “mark” their territory.

■ Can be less aggressive, and less likely to roam or bark excessively.

■ Are 100% guaranteed to not reproduce.

If you are concerned about the cost, look for a low-cost spay/neuter clinic.

DEAR HELOISE: I have spent months looking at furniture stores that might carry the color fabric I want for new furniture. All carry exactly the same range of dull, bland colors that are supposed to be “in.” How about pastels and small designs on fabric? What happened to green and yellow? Wake up, manufacturers — not everyone wants gray, blue or beige. Thank you. — Jane in Fredericksburg, Va.

DEAR HELOISE: Regarding the woman who was dismayed to find that many of her family photos had become stuck to the glass in the frame: While reading the steps of the solution (putting it in the freezer, etc.), I kept thinking to myself, “Why does this have to be so hard?”

Just take it to someplace where there’s no reflective glare and use your cellphone to take a picture of the photo. Then you can have prints made from that. I do this, especially with odd-shaped old photos. — Joy in Colorado

DEAR HELOISE: I cut out a piece of waxed paper and line a window for privacy when I haven’t hung up curtains or drapes yet (for example, when I move into a new apartment or home). It allows light in, but no one can see in.

— Donna R., via email

DEAR HELOISE: Women of a certain age sometimes have bladder leakage. The pads they use can be an unattractive nuisance in the home garbage.

Possible solution: A baby diaper disposal system, which keeps things sealed up, out of sight and smell.

— A Reader, via email