LITTLE ROCK — DEAR HELOISE: I have several fashion watches that I wear only occasionally. To keep the battery working longer, I pull the stem out when not in use. My jeweler told me this one, and it works - no more watches with dead batteries!
- Theresa D. in Fredericksburg, Va.
DEAR READER: We spoke with several jewelers in San Antonio. The general consensus is to not pull the stem out, because dust and moisture could enter the mechanism.
Since most watch batteries last several years, and cost about $10, I’d say $2 to $4 a year is a bargain price to pay to keep a watch in tiptop condition.
The best thing to do when storing a watch long term (six months or more) is to have the battery carefully removed by your jeweler, or do it yourself, if possible.
However, one jeweler said pulling the stem out is OK, but just to store the watch in a covered jewelry box, and never wear the watch with the stem pulled out.
P.S.: A bonus hint: If you want to clean the watch band, wrap the watch in plastic wrap to keep it dry (if using soap and water).
DEAR READERS: Hate to throw away egg cartons? Don’t. They are perfect little organizers to:
Hold earrings.
Start seeds in.
Store flower bulbs.
Hold nuts and bolts.
Hold paint for toddlers’ art projects.
Sort seed beads and jewelry hardware.
DEAR HELOISE: I have a suggestion for food manufacturers: I have carpal tunnel syndrome in my hands. Those cans of food that have a tab you pull up and then pull the lid back are hard to open. I wish they would make some cans that are easier to open.
- Ann in Alabama 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
ActiveStyle, Pages 28 on 11/22/2010