DEAR HELOISE: I just purchased an oriental rug. Do you have hints for how to take care of it? I want to keep it looking good.
- Helen, via email
DEAR READER: Oriental rugs are beautiful additions to any home and can last a long time. Here are some hints for taking care of your rug:
Lightly vacuum the rug weekly to remove dirt. If possible, use a vacuum that does not have a beater bar and uses only suction. A new rug might shed, so don’t be surprised if it happens.
Place the rug in a spot out of direct sunlight to reduce fading.
Rotate the rug every six months or so for even wear, especially if it’s in a high-traffic area.
Clean up spills by blotting with bath towels.
Have the rug professionally cleaned every few years.
DEAR HELOISE: My husband and I have been fortunate to travel to many different countries. Of course, we go to the popular landmarks, museums and historical sites.
We have collected many ticket stubs for entrance into places (like the Vatican). I now laminate them and use them as bookmarks. It is nice to keep them preserved, and seeing them brings fond memories of our trips.
- Linda W., via email
DEAR READER: I’m with you! I have my ticket stubs to see The Beatles! The price was $3! Of course, that was September 1964, and my big brother Louis took me. They are in a framed picture of the Fab Four, signed by all of them.
DEAR HELOISE: I have a 3-year-old son. When at a restaurant, I order his food when the waitress comes to take our drink order. His food comes out first, and I am not trying to entertain him and get him to sit still for a long time waiting for his food. A bonus is that when my food comes, he is already set up and eating, so I can enjoy my food.
- T.A. in Texas
DEAR HELOISE: I read your advice on the importance of year-round heartworm prevention in dogs. It is excellent advice, however, you omitted the danger of heartworms in cats. While heartworms can be treated in dogs, there is no treatment for cats, other than prevention. So it is vital that cats also are kept on a constant heartworm regimen. This applies to indoor and outdoor cats and dogs.
- Diane in California Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email Heloise@Heloise.com
MovieStyle, Pages 32 on 12/27/2013