DEAR HELOISE: A few days before my husband and I leave for a trip, I collect and keep the long plastic bags that cover our newspapers when they're delivered. When we get to our destination, I put the TV remote control in one bag, and I place the phone receiver in the room in another bag. This is a simple way to try to keep healthy, as the phone and remotes in hotel rooms or on cruise ships are not sanitized between occupants.
-- Barbara M.,
Freehold, N.J.
DEAR READER: You also can use sanitizing sprays or wipes, which are formulated to kill bacteria.
DEAR HELOISE: A few safety pins or a needle and thread tucked into your suitcase can come in handy when a button pops off or a hem comes unraveled.
-- Linda-Mae N., Tennessee
DEAR HELOISE: I keep forgetting certain items when I pack. It might be an evening bag, a pair of shoes to go with an outfit or makeup items. How can I get it all together?
-- Emily R., Metairie, La.
DEAR READER: Emily, try making a master list and keeping it in your suitcase. Forgetting items for a trip can be annoying but avoidable. You also might want to lay out each outfit on a bed and select the jewelry you plan to wear with it, along with underwear and shoes, before packing.
DEAR HELOISE: How do I hand-wash a silk blouse?
-- Ashley G., Indiana
DEAR READER: Ashley, use a mild detergent and cool water, along with a gentle swishing action. No twisting or wringing out, but instead roll the blouse in a clean towel first, then hang to dry, out of direct sunlight. If you have a spot you're trying to remove, take it to a professional cleaner and let them handle it. Iron on the "wrong side" of the blouse.
DEAR HELOISE: My cabinet doors have magnetic catches that are very difficult to open. Is there anything I can do to make it easier to open them?
-- Erin B, Texas
DEAR READER: Erin, try putting a piece of clear tape over the magnetic catches. This should decrease the power of the magnets.
DEAR READERS: Missing a few dishes from your set? Try mixing in solid-colored plates that coordinate with your dinnerware.
Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email
Heloise@Heloise.com
MovieStyle on 03/08/2019