DEAR READER: Here is this week’s Sound Off:
“I do not like those lubricating strips that manufacturers put on razors these days. You can’t avoid them. I soak the razors in hot water for a while, then remove that strip. I can’t stand that slick, soapy feel on my face, and wish some makers would realize that not everybody does.” - Craig, via email
DEAR READERS: Here are other uses for a coffee mug with a broken handle:
Plant small herbs in it and keep on the kitchen windowsill.
Use in a bathroom to store cotton balls or cotton swabs.
Place on a desk as a pencil-and-pen holder.
Store tea bags or other small items in one in the kitchen.
Use as a water cup when painting.
DEAR HELOISE: I have some small, galvanized cans that I want to paint and use as decorative storage items, but the paint won’t stick! Is there anything I can do to help the paint adhere?
- Cathy, via email
DEAR READER: The magic solution is my vinegar. Wipe down the cans with some full-strength vinegar. Let them dry, then apply a second time and let dry. Now go to town with painting. Hardware stores should have paint specially made for this.
To remove rust from screws and bolts, soak in vinegar overnight and wipe clean.
DEAR HELOISE: A friend shared that she had gone to a restroom at a hospital. There was not much room on the counter for her purse, and she did not want to put it on the floor, so she put it in the sink. When she came out of the stall, her purse was full of water because the automatic faucet clicked on. So, find someplace else to put it besides the sink. She had a good laugh.
- I.N., Audubon, Iowa
DEAR READER: It may be funny now, but my question is why on earth anyone would put a purse in the sink or on the counter in a public restroom. This is not a good idea. All it takes is someone else walking in, taking the purse and walking out. Ladies, don’t ever leave your purse out of your sight.
DEAR HELOISE: To prevent the spread of germs around the house, don’t forget to sanitize all the door handles at least twice a day.
- Nancy G., via email
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
ActiveStyle, Pages 26 on 03/10/2014