LITTLE ROCK — DEAR READERS: When heading away to college and into a dorm room or apartment, never underestimate the value of a good set of tools. Especially at the start and the end of each semester. A back-to-school basics(or first time moving out) kit should include:
Hammer
Wrench
Pliers
Multi-head screwdriver
Duct tape (a necessity!)
Nails and screws.
Being well prepared may invite students to your room to borrow tools and/or an extra set of hands. To make sure your tools “come back,” buy a decorated set. Home-improvement stores and some major retailers carry tools that have designs and are not the regular black.
If you are using tools you already have, you can code them with bright nail polish or patterned (or colored) duct tape. Make sure your tools are allowed in your dorm.
P.S.: My father gave me a small set when I first went to college, and I was the hit on my floor.
DEAR HELOISE: I am an avid recycler, forever forgetful about returning plastic bags to the grocery store, and I find it a nuisance to store them until returned. Now I straighten out the bag, twist and wind it around two fingers, then tuck the “tail” into the middle, forming a little rosette. I hang one bag near my recycle bin to toss the “rosettes” into. When full, I tie the handles and have a bundle to return to the store.
- Linda in Hickory, N.C.
DEAR HELOISE: I have a 12-year-old cat that has a problem with her stomach and gets sick occasionally. The acid stains the carpet and doesn’t go away, even after cleaning. We just got new carpet, and I would love to hear your suggestions before another accident ruins the new carpet.
- Laima W., Hawaii
DEAR READER: Start by scooping up pet (cat or dog) throw up with a big spoon. Once it has been picked up, mix 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap, 2 cups of warm water and 1 tablespoon of white vinegar. Lightly dampen the carpet with this mixture and blot until the carpet is dry. Finally, use cold water to remove any remaining residue.
If an odor or stain still exists, you may need to buy a commercial cleaner specially made with enzymes for pet odors and stains, which is available at most pet specialty stores.
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 34 on 09/06/2012