HINTS FROM HELOISE

MICROFIBER TOWELS. Dear Readers: Clean freaks we may or may not be, but since the inception of this column -- founded by my mother, the original Heloise (1919-1977) -- we have sought to provide you easy and timesaving tips, tricks and hints toward getting a somewhat more marginally clean home while balancing home, family, friends and fun.

To that end, let's look at the microfiber towel. Talk about a timesaver! Microfiber is a synthetic blend of, normally, polyester and nylon, configured in a rectangular or square shape. Microfiber towels absorb and hold liquids and oils faster and better than traditional cotton toweling. Also, dust molecules are drawn to microfiber, making them ideal for cleaning.

Microfiber towels can cost more than ordinary towels, but their cleaning power and longevity make up for any initial outlay of cash. Microfiber towels are appropriate for most cleaning tasks, but don't use a dirty one to dust an LCD screen -- scratches can ensue.

Two more points: Never use fabric softener when washing microfiber, and look for bulk bags of microfiber towels in the automotive department of a big box retailer. -- Heloise

ORGANIZATION NATION. Dear Heloise: After inheriting my grandmother's estate, I came into several of her handmade quilts. I display them on a wooden straight ladder. -- Glynnis W. in Florida

Glynnis, blessings to you after the loss of your grandmother. Keep in mind, fabrics can be delicate. Sunlight and the stress of hanging the quilts over the rail of a ladder could potentially damage the quilts. -- Heloise

EASY APPLE. Dear Heloise: My kids love caramel apples, but we do it differently. I slice the apples in 3/4-in slices, insert a stick and then dip them in caramel, nuts, chocolate drizzle, etc. It's easier for a small child to hold because it's a smaller portion. Usually less messy, too! -- Meran W. in Illinois

ICE ICE BABY. Dear Readers: Here's an easy way to stay cool: Fill a water bottle half-full, lay it on its side and freeze it. When you're ready to head outside, fill the bottle with water, and you'll have ice water for a nice afternoon. -- Heloise

HINT FROM HIM -- BOTHERED BILL. Dear Heloise: It really ticks me off when my lotion pump stops pumping and there are 3 to 4 ounces left in the bottom that I have to bang out. I wish they'd put a longer tube inside. -Bill G., The Villages, Fla