LITTLE ROCK — DEAR HELOISE: My son was in school, and someone shook a bottle of typewriter correction fluid and got stains all over his brand-new shirt. Is there anything that can help remove this type of stain?
- Keisha, via e-mail
DEAR READER: Try rubbing a citrus-based, grease-cutting spray cleaner on the stains. This type of cleaner contains petroleum distillates, so work in a well ventilated area. This hopefully will emulsify, or break apart, the spotting. Then launder as usual.
You also can take it to your dry cleaner and say what the stain is. It should be treated as would an oil-based paint stain.
DEAR HELOISE: Most stores post their hours of operation on their doors. I take a picture with my cell phone of the hours at the stores I shop at frequently so I can check them at a moment’s notice.
- Jill in Tustin, Calif.
DEAR HELOISE: Shampoo bottles seem designed with no place to grip. I solved this by pouring my shampoo into a small, empty, plastic honey bottle shaped like a bear. It is easy to hold, doesn’t slip out of your hands, and the lid pops open to dispense the shampoo. Just be careful that the bottle doesn’t find its way back to the kitchen.
- Marcia B., Spring, Texas
DEAR READERS: Do you own an electric blanket?Here are some hints about these blankets:
Check for signs of wear or damage to the wiring. If you see any, throw the blanket away, and do not use it. It’s a fire hazard.
Don’t use safety pins on the blanket; this could lead to shock or fire.
Never use an electric blanket with an infant.
Completely unfold the blanket before using.
Always unplug the blanket after each use.
DEAR READERS: Below is a classic Letter of Thought from the files:
DEAR HELOISE: As soon as my two sons showed the least curiosity to help Mommy, I let them. Now, as older teenagers, doing any household chore, from cooking to cleaning, seems natural. They also know how to do outside chores.
My reward? Two appreciative future daughters-in law who will someday marry these knowledgeable, willing househusbands.
- Donna J., from 1981
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
HomeStyle, Pages 37 on 03/31/2012