Filing manuals keeps them close at hand; vinegar dissolves scale on canner
Dear Heloise: I have files on categories of items such as “Outdoor Equipment,” “Electronics,” “Computers,” “Personal,” “Household Small Appliances,” etc. I file the owners manual in the appropriate file when I get an item. I never have a problem finding the manuals when I need them, and if I sell the item or give it to someone, I can include the original papers with it.—Linda L. in Louisiana
FISH-OIL AFTERTASTE Dear Heloise: I learned this from a nurse during a recent visit to my doctor’s office. The aftertaste or belching problem when taking fish-oil supplements is a problem. The nurse told me to freeze the supplements and take them frozen, and you will not experience the issue associated with these supplements. I have tried this, and it works.—Darlene A., Omaha, Neb.
Well, the research is a little “fishy” on this one. Some people find that freezing helps with burping, while others see no difference. Look for supplements that are “odorless” or “burpless” to prevent the problem.—Heloise
NO SCALE Dear Heloise: When canning, I hated the scale that built up on my water bath canner and periodically scrubbed it off, which is hard work. I also didn’t like the way the canning jars sometimes acquired that whitish haze. I discovered that after adding a small amount of white vinegar to the water, the scale did not form in the canner. No white haze formed on the jars, and even the wire racks, from which I had never tried to remove scale, came out sparkling.—Susan M., Middletown, Va.
Once again, vinegar proves to be a top safe and cheap cleaner. There are just a gazillion good things about vinegar. You can learn more of my hints for using it with my vinegar pamphlet. Simply order at www.Heloise.com, or send $5 and a long, self-addressed, stamped (68 cents) envelope to: Heloise/ Vinegar, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001. Burnt-on food in a pot? Soak in full-strength apple-cider or white vinegar for 30-45 minutes, scrub and wash as usual.—Heloise
PILL CUP Dear Heloise: I take pills in the morning and at night. My sweet wife always gets my meds together for me. She puts them in one of those small, plastic dosage cups that come on the cap of a bottle of cough syrup. Keeps me from dropping them.—John A., via email
PET TRAVEL DISH Dear Heloise: Traveling with a pet requires planning and smart packing. My hint is to pack a couple of old butter/margarine tubs to use for food and water. They are lightweight and take up little space in the car.—Josh D. in New Mexico