LITTLE ROCK — DEAR HELOISE: We have small throw rugs with rubber backing on two bathroom linoleum floors, which have yellowed from the imprint of the rubber backing. We have tried every known cleaner without success. Any hints on how we can get these ugly stains out?
- Michael and Betty in Iowa
DEAR READER: Sorry to say, probably not. It's not really a "stain" that can be removed. The yellow is from the rubber causing a chemical reaction with the linoleum or even any cleaning agent or polish you have used. Flooring experts agree that you should not use rubber-backed rugs on linoleum for just this reason.
Your mats aren't the only thing that could stain this flooring. Rubber feet on bar stools, or rubber wheels on kitchen islands or microwave carts, also could damage your linoleum.
Speaking of linoleum, a quick tip for removing those black scuff marks that shoes leave behind is to rub the area with a wet fabric-softener sheet.
DEAR HELOISE: You had a solution with vinegar for cleaning eyeglasses. Would you please run it again?
- Dale Fisher, via e-mail
DEAR READER: For sparkling-clean windows, mirrors or your glasses, add 1 /2 to 1 cup of vinegar to 1 /2 gallon of water. Put the solution in a labeled spray bottle. Wipe with a soft cloth so your eyeglasses don't get scratched.
Another handy vinegar hint you can try is to soak your paintbrushes in vinegar and water for a few hours to keep them soft and supple.
DEAR HELOISE: If your dishwasher drains through the garbage disposal, turn it on when the dishwasher is draining. This cleans and freshens the disposal.
- Tommie Rogers of Tyler, Texas Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or e-mail
MovieStyle, Pages 39 on 08/28/2009