LITTLE ROCK — DEAR HELOISE: I check all pockets before putting items into the washer. I often find tissues, papertowels, etc., in my husband’s pockets. I also make sure to clean the filter screen after each load.
- Willa O., Bella Vista
DEAR HELOISE: I am trying to get rid of fleas in my home. I do not want to use harsh chemicals. Please help me.
- Denise, via e-mail
DEAR READER: Here are some chemical-free things you can try:
First, vacuum your home daily, and place a few mothballs in the bag to kill the fleas. You are supposed to throw away the bag after each use, but as long as you are aware, you may not have to.
Wash the doghouse, if you have one, with salt water, and place fresh pine needles or cedar shavings under the pet’s bed. Check the bedding daily for flea activity.
Look for a dog shampoo containing a pyrethrin (derived from chrysanthemum flowers) base. It kills fleas and is safe for dogs.
To catch fleas, wrap adhesive tape around your fingers with the sticky side out, and they will stick to the tape. Or place a shallow pan on the floor filled with soapy water. Use a 25-watt lamp above the pan. The light will attract the fleas, but when they jump, they will land in the water.
Pest-control experts recommend that you check your pet daily for fleas. Then you need to treat your inside and outside living areas using chemicals and natural treatments. If you have a large infestation, consult a pest control professional.
DEAR HELOISE: Our city provides a curbside recycling program. However, the bin is unsightly, and we keep it in the garage. Guests do not realize that we recycle, and I constantly have to ask them not to throw certain items in the garbage.
I bought a small garbage bin, labeled it for recycling only and have it next to the kitchen garbage can. No more questions, and the recycling is separated to be carried out once daily.
- Marilyn G., via e-mail
DEAR HELOISE: I put compact discs that no longer work due to scratches in my bicycle spokes as reflectors.
- Rita in Hawaii 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
Weekend, Pages 32 on 03/22/2012