HELPFUL HINTS
DEAR HELOISE: I wanted to share a hint for those of us who have front-load washing machines. They tend to stay “moist” inside. I use a plastic bowl with about half a cup of baking soda and place it in the washing machine while it is not in use. The baking soda absorbs the moisture.
I pour this “used” baking soda in with my towels prior to washing them. There is no foul smell, and my towels come out smelling fresh.
— Ginny in Yorba Linda, Calif. DEAR READER: I love a double-duty hint, and baking soda is the perfect product to use. Many readers have problems with front-load washing machines smelling. The hint is to wipe off the door gasket after use and leave the door open until completely dry. Baking soda is a fabulous odor neutralizer all around the house, and it is environmentally friendly and cheap.
DEAR READERS: If you choose to adopt a dog from a shelter, microchips are very important. A microchip can be the best way to get your pet back home should it get away. Be sure that the microchip information is updated and current to include your name, address and, most importantly, your phone number. This may make the difference between getting your pet back and not.
Normally, microchips cost around $50, with an annual fee to maintain your information on the chip of around $20. Check with your veterinarian.
DEAR HELOISE: Regarding the cologne/perfume samples in the magazine ads: I open them and tape them inside the lids of my garbage cans. It will work for several days as an air freshener.
— Barb in Humble, Texas
DEAR HELOISE: After an exasperating day with my preschool son, I had taken all I thought I could. “James!” I cried, “You’re driving me crazy!”
With his most innocent look, he replied: “Mom, I can’t be doing that. I don’t even know how to drive!”
— Janie, from January 1981
DEAR HELOISE: If I have a small amount of bathroom cleaner left in the bottle, I spray the toilet-bowl brush and pour the residual cleaner into the brush holder.
I like using the freshenedup brush and the last little bit of cleaner.
— Rose M., via e-mail