DEAR HELOISE: Others may already know this little hint, but after years of having bra hooks in the laundry get caught on other lingerie, like lace slips and panties, a light comes on -- hook the bra before putting it in the wash. Voila! No more torn lace!
-- Nancy in Houston
DEAR READER: This is a great and practical hint. Your letter serves as a good reminder.
Ladies, it may be time for an Intimates Intervention! Why not survey all your "unmentionables"? Toss anything that doesn't fit correctly, is stretched out or is too worn. And if it's time to buy a new bra, make the investment of time to see a professional fitter at a department store. The fitters are trained to get you the correct fit, which is so important.
You will be properly supported, and your clothes will fit and look better. It may cost a bit more than buying a bra at a discount retailer, but consider it an investment.
Readers, any funny bra-shopping stories?
DEAR HELOISE: For really good coffee, I use this method: I fill the water tank to about the 10-cup level with the coldest water I can get. Then I add ice cubes until the water goes up to the 12-cup mark. Then I just let the ice melt before starting the coffee. It may take a bit longer to get this done, but it works with all brands of coffee.
-- Al Engel,
Aberdeen, S.D.
DEAR READER: Thanks, Al. According to the National Coffee Association (ncausa.org), when brewing coffee, the water should reach a temperature of around 200 degrees. They say that cold water could flatten the taste of the coffee.
The kind of water you use is important, too. Regular tap water may contain minerals that can affect the flavor. Most coffee-brewer manufacturers say to use bottled or spring water. Softened or distilled water is not recommended.
DEAR HELOISE: I was wondering if you have a solution for white spots on the table. My coffee table was the casualty of a paper plate with hot food placed on it.
-- Jennifer, via email
DEAR READER: Mix a tiny amount of baking soda with some non-gel white toothpaste. Rub with the grain of the table until warm. It may take several applications. Finish with a wipe from a damp cloth, and then it will be time for a good polishing of the table.
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
Weekend on 03/26/2015