Helpful Hints

DEAR READERS: Here is this week's Sound Off, about radio advertisements:

"I listen to FM radio (Heloise here: not satellite radio) while driving. My Sound Off is about commercials from car dealerships that use a car horn in the ads. Do they realize how distracting that can be while driving? I hear a car horn while driving and get into defense mode, expecting that some collision is inevitable. Lay off the horn!"

-- L.G. in San Antonio

Good point -- we don't need another loud, distracting noise while driving, especially one that is associated with driving. Don't get me started about the loud siren sound effect! I'm ready to pull over, thinking it's an ambulance or firetruck.

DEAR READERS: Here are other uses for a wine rack:

• Use to store rolled magazines.

• Use to store wrapping paper.

• Use to hold skeins of yarn.

• Attach to wall to hold scarves.

• Roll guest hand towels and store for bathroom.

DEAR HELOISE: I have recently been diagnosed with an allergy to fragrance. I had no idea how much fragrance we use. I'm having difficulty finding cleaners. I need products for glass and bathrooms. I've seen you come through before, and I'm counting on you.

-- Mary Ann S., via email

DEAR READER: Mary Ann, thanks for the vote of confidence. Many of my readers seem to be developing allergies to fragrances. I don't know what's up, but I'm here to help. I've always said that most cleaners you need in your home can be made at home. Here goes with a short list.

For glass or mirrors, try a simple rubbing-alcohol-based cleaner. Mix 1/4 cup of isopropyl alcohol (70-90 percent) in a quart of water. Use an empty spray bottle and label clearly.

For the bathroom, use the above for counters and sinks. If there is a little mold or mildew, use hydrogen peroxide (3 percent) to banish it. You can pour it on a paper towel, or put it in a spray bottle. For most surfaces, a drop or two of dish soap into 8 ounces of water works.

These are very mild, and safe to use. Prevention is better than curative, so quick-clean sinks, counters and even the toilet every few days rather than once a week.

P.S.: Run the toilet brush around the commodes daily to prevent lime buildup.

DEAR HELOISE: I was constantly "losing" my cellphone in my purse. I had a small cloth pouch that held my phone. I did a quick stitch and sewed it into the cloth interior near the top. Now I can find in quickly.

-- Norma F. in San Francisco

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 on 07/06/2015

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