House and Home

Past Tips From Viewers

Nov. 15, 2005: Don't Be Hidebound Over Cleaning Leather

To remove your child's marker or ink art off of your leather furniture, use baby wipes! They will clean just about every tough job you can think of around the house. Tyey are also good on grass-stained shoes and getting ink and marker art off the walls. Give it a try!

-- Sharell Jones
Atlanta, Ga.

Nov. 8, 2005: Cool Paint Tool Preservation

Just to add to the tip a few weeks ago about how to keep paint brushes and rollers from drying out: If you put them in a plastic bag and then put them in the freezer or refrigerator, you can keep them for days. I leave my brush and roller in the pan and put the entire thing in. It keeps the paint fresh also. I have kept them for a week.

-- Jessica
Pittsburgh, Pa.

Nov. 2, 2005: Pester Pesky Garden Bunnies

To keep the rabbits out of your garden either use coffee bean mulch or use your coffee grounds from your morning coffee. They hate the smell. Or, you can purchase wolve'ss urine -- which is rather expensive.

-- Donna Williams
Omaha, Neb.

Oct. 25, 2005: Store Your Tools Properly

To store garden tools for the winter, cut 3 inch white plastic pipe into 12 inch sections. Drill two 1/2-inch holes on one side vertically. Then, using a long drill extention, drill through these holes, attach the pipe with screws in a vertical orientation in the garden shed to hold garden tools such as hoes, rakes and shovels by putting the handles into the pipe. This keeps each tool separate and easy to find and keeps the metal part off the ground.

-- Janie Garner
Berkeley, Calif.

Oct. 11, 2005: Paint Shutters For Inexpensive Remodeling

My husband tried to pick up beads of motor oil on beige carpet!!! All it did was spred it all over. I smeared area with Goop hand cleaner, waited 10 minutes, wiped with a damp paper towel and it was as good as new.

-- Sandra Czarkowski
Closter, N.J.

Oct. 4, 2005: Paint Shutters For Inexpensive Remodeling

Want to give the outside of your house a brand new look? Paint your shutters. You'll be amazed at what a difference. Eight shutters require about three to five cans of semi-gloss spray paint. Talk about an inexpensive way to remodel!

-- Glenda Harris
New Bern, N.C.

Sept. 27, 2005: While You're In The Shower...

Hate to clean the bathroom? While taking a shower, clean it with whatever you use (don't slip!). After you've taken your own shower? I think it's easier to do this when the shower is already wet (and you can get inside of it) rather than trying to clean the shower while it is all dry and the dirt has dried as well.

-- Lisa Shapiro
Framingham, Mass.

Sept. 20, 2005: Dirty Carpet? Easy On The Soap

To truly extend the life of new carpet, use only warm/hot water, no soaps. Apply stain remover directly on stains only. Soaps leave a sticky residue that attracts dirt. It also settles under the carpet, where it will eventually dry up -- until the next time you clean your carpets.

-- Kelly Bessette
San Jose, Calif.

Sept. 12, 2005: Cool Garbage Disposal Tip

Ice cubes can clean the inside of your garbage disposal, but you need to clean the line from the dishwasher vacuum break to the disposal. Remove the breaker cover from the top of your sink and unscrew the cap and then you can run water through the line. A flexible bottle brush then can be inserted in the exit in the disposal to dislodge food particles in the hose.

-- John Durichek
Salinas, Calif.

Sept. 6, 2005: Bulbs? Dig A Little Easier

Enjoy planting large amounts of impatiens or other annuals, but hate digging the holes? I found a bulb planter at Home Depot that you stand up and use to dig holes to plant bulbs. It works very well at digging holes for your annuals to fit in also. I make 12 holes at time, plant, mulch and keep going till done. It took me an hour to plant and mulch 150 impatiens using this tool.

-- Keith Jordan
Rockford, Illinois

Aug. 23, 2005: Candle Wax Removal

If you get candle wax on your carpet all you have to do is get a brown paper bag and your iron. Tear the bag open, heat up your iron, place the bag over the wax and iron over it. The wax will melt into the paper bag. Works every time.

-- Vanessa Pearl
Houston, Texas

Aug. 16, 2005: Clean Shower Tip

Hate to clean the bathroom? While taking a shower, clean it with whatever you use (don't slip!) after you've taken your own shower. I think it's easier to do this when the shower is already wet (and you can get inside of it) than trying to clean the shower while it is all dry and the dirt has dried as well.

-- Lisa Shapiro
Framingham, Mass.

July 25, 2005: Get Rid Of Crayon Marks

To get crayon marks off of walls, take a soft cloth and some WD-40. Spray the cloth with the WD-40 and wipe the spot. The oil gets absorbed into the cloth, while the other ingredients work on the wax from the crayon. Works on painted or paper surfaces!

-- Judy Powers
Southgate, Ky.

July 25, 2005: Keep Paint Brushes From Drying Out

Here's another use for those plastic bags we get from the grocery store: Keep wet paint brushes and rollers in them. Sometimes when painting, one has to stop for a break or to run an errand. Just put the brushes in the bag with handles exposed and tie or wrap with tape. When you return, the brush and rollers are still moist and you don't have to clean them twice. I've left them in a bag for a day and they were still good to go.

-- Cheryl Rudd
Riverdale, Ill.

July 18, 2005: Rust-Free Garden Tools

Here's a way to prevent rust on your garden tools: Fill a 5-gallon bucket with sand & a quart of motor oil. After using your tools, scrape off the excess soil and plunge the tool into the bucket of sand a few times.

-- Kathy
Omaha, Neb.

July 12, 2005: Garden Feng Shui

When landscaping, try to remember that nothing in nature is square. Give nature its due by rounding all areas to promote a beautiful feng shui atmosphere. Harmony in the garden is key to this feeling of accomplishment! Everywhere you look and walk will be easier on eye and body. Watch how movement is eased with this tip.

-- B. Adelia Young
Truxton, N.Y.

June 28, 2005: Salt In The Cracks

Spring is here. Time to add salt in between walking stones for weed killing. It's easy and very effective, without harmful chemicals. Use before weeds sprout for even less worry!

-- B. Adelia Young
Truxton, N.Y.

June 22, 2005: Keeping Rugs Clean

For smaller rugs that are dry clean only, I shake them out and then put them in the dryer under "cool" for about a half-hour to freshen them up.

-- Barbara Smith
Boston, Mass.

June 14, 2005: Curtains For Cooling

If you have unobstructed windows facing east, south or west, simply opening your curtains during the daylight hours and closing them at sundown will reduce your heating bill by making full use of solar energy. However, be warned that any upholstery and carpet so exposed will fade faster and become brittle over time.

-- Orion Lyonesse
Everett, Wash.

June 7, 2005: Ammonia In Laundry Cuts Grease

I often put a half-cup of ammonia in my wash to loosen up the grease stains on work clothes and oil stains that sometimes are obtained from drying clothes in our community dryer. It makes your coats, jackets, pants cleaner and believe it or not, the stains miraculously disappear. I informed my neighbor about this remedy and she tried it with a down feathered coat that had a grease stain on it. I told her to put sneakers in the dryer with the coat (or tennis balls) so the coat would dry correctly and the down feathers came back to what they were. She was very surprised and pleased with the ammonia remedy and her coat looks like brand new.

-- Kathy O'Shea
New York, N.Y.

May 31, 2005: Get The Ink Out

Rubbing alcohol will get ink -- any kind of ink -- out of most clothing. Just put some on the spot where the ink is, rub and rinse and see what happens! It works!

-- Nicole Jackson
Shebly Township, Mich.

May 24, 2005: Pot Scrubbing Made Easy

There's no need to soak and scrub pots and pans. Instead, place the pot back on the stove, add enough water to cover the area where the food is stuck, add a little liquid dish soap and allow your pans to cook clean. When your pans have cooled, finish off with a hand wash. This works great for electric skillets too.

-- Cherie Coy
Mt. Gilead, Ohio

May 17, 2005: Cleaning The Garbage Disposal

-- John Durichek
Salinas, Calif.

May 10, 2005: Easy Toilet Bowl Cleaning

For cleaning toilet bowls, I drop in a denture tablet and go back in about 15 minutes and use the brush. It's easy and effective, with no scrubbing.

-- Edna Peters
Bremerton, Wash.

May 2, 2005: Cleaning Off Baked-On Food

There's no need to soak and scrub your pots and pans. All you do is place the pot back on the stove, add enough water to cover the area where the food is stuck, add a little liquid dish soap, and allow your pans to cook clean. When your pans have cooled, finish off with a hand wash. This works great for electric skillets too.

-- Cherie Coy
Mt. Gilead, Ohio

April 26, 2005: Get Rid Of Odors

To eliminate household odors from cooking and smoking, fill a bowl (or similar container) with cotton balls, pour in vinegar and place in an out of way area. Keep one in every room, and repeat the process every week.

-- Linda Medina
Houston, Texas

April 19, 2005: Keep Sinks Sparkling

Mineral oil will make your sink shinny but why go out and buy another product? Just spray sinks with your furniture cleaner. The cleaner will make sinks shine, and the water will not spot your sink. So easy and handy!

-- Rebecca Nix
Spring, Texas

April 12, 2005: Easy Paint Tray Cleaning

Here's a quick and easy way of cleaning the paint tray. Before use, take one of those plastic bags from your grocery store we all get and insert your paint tray inside. Pour your paint and roll away. When done, use the handle to pull the bag off, inside out. It keeps wet paint on the inside of the bag, not on the tray.

-- Ron Copple
Auburn, Wash.

March 29, 2005: Lengthen The Life Of Your Clothes Dryer

To take dust off a lampshade or your sofa, put on a pair of Playtex rubber gloves and start dusting away using your hands as an instant cleaner. You would be surprised to see how much dust and dirt comes off!!

-- Anna Chavez
Chicago, Ill.

March 22, 2005: Lengthen The Life Of Your Clothes Dryer

To extend the life of your dryer and save money on your electricity bill don’t just remove your lint after each load of clothes, take the filter out and wash it with hot soapy water and an old toothbrush (or other brush) at least every six months. Dryer sheets leave a film on the mesh and actually block them causing the heating unit to burn out faster and burn more electricity.

-- C.J. Johnson
Fort Worth, Texas

March 14, 2005: Keep Power Cords Out Of The Way

To keep your power tool cords out of your way as you're working, install a long spring in the ceiling over your work area. Then just hook the slack of the power tool onto it and you're home free.

-- Neil Billings
Deerfield, N.H.

March 7, 2005: Replace Broken Lightbulbs Safely

If you are changing a light bulb, and it accidentally breaks, cut a potato in half and use it to unscrew the broken light bulb. This way, you don't take achance cutting yourself.

-- Sandy Ritchie
Plano, Texas

March 1, 2005: Keep Shiny Sinks

To keep your metal sinks shiny, just apply mineral oil. Mineral oil applied with a soft cloth will recreate the subtle sheen your new sink once had.

-- Neal Altland
Nashport, Ohio

Feb. 22, 2005: Quickly Sterilize Sponges

To sterilize those sponges used in the kitchen, place a damp sponge in the microwave for 20 seconds. It will "kill" any bacteria in those sponges. Do this once a week or more often.

-- MJ Aured
Tuscaloosa, Ala.

Feb. 14, 2005: Clean Rugs Without Nasty Chemicals

My mom used to clean her sofa with a "rug beater" and a mixture of white vinegar and water. You take a piece of white cotton, (she used new white clothes diapers), wet it in a bucket of three parts of water and one part of white vinegar, spread the cotton over your pillow or sofa and start beating. You be surprised how much dust you get out this way without using any chemicals.

-- Ingrid Wagnaar
Santa Cruz, Calif.

Feb. 7, 2005: Get Ice Off Your Roof Safely

It is that time, when the wonderful snow hits and people worry about damage from ice. Well, calcium chloride is the only safe way to de-ice the roof without damage. It works at very low temps and is a lot faster than salt, safer and makes a funny cracking sound when applied. I use it also on my sidewalk too: it works three to four times faster. Now, this is expensive but it will not ruin any shingles. Look at an asphalt parking lot just after salting and you will see little burns into the material, hence the roadwork we put up with every year. And Please keep the snow blower off the roof or you will buy a new one next year. Every year I see at least two or three people doing that and it kills me. Buy a roof rake or a shovel but be careful. Also, do not chip the ice away from gutters unless you would like to buy new gutters after you dent and possibly cut through the metal.

-- Kevin Briesky
Warren, Mich.

Feb. 1, 2005: Fixing Car Scratches

Windex is terrific for rubbing out any scratches on your car body exteriors. It has to be Windex, not other glass products, because Windex has something in it that mixes with the fiberglass for car bodies. And, it doesn't fade the paint!

-- Bette Dow
Arlington, Va.

Jan. 24, 2005: Bathtubs And Car Wax

The only way to keep your tub surround spotless like the day it was installed is to use wax: Old fashion car wax. Try to keep the wax the same color as your tub surround. Mine is white.

-- Deb Strum,
Pittsburgh, Pa.

Jan. 17, 2005: All Purpose Bleach

Keep a spray container of diluted bleach in your kitchen. It's great for sterilizing cutting boards, cleaning the garbage can and dish drainer, and getting stains out of plastic containers, among other uses. Make sure it's labeled clearly and out of the reach of children, since it is poisonous.

-- Kathy Flaherty,
Wallingford, Conn.

Jan. 11, 2005: Citrus Vinegar Cleaner

Fill a quart glass jar with peelings of any citrus fruit (remove any of the pulp). Cover the peelings with white vinegar. Put a lid on the jar and allow it to sit for two weeks, occasionally shaking the jar. Then, remove the peels and strain. Use this vinegar in any of the following ways:

Pour into small dish and set in a room to absorb obsorb odors.
Make an all purpose floor cleaner by mixing 1/2 cup with one gallon of water.
Make glass cleaner by combining a quart of water with one half-cup of vinegar and pour into a spray bottle.
Make floor cleaner by mixing one cup of citrus vinegar with two gallons of water and mop as ususal.

-- Kathy Flaherty,
Shrewsbury, Mass.

Dec. 28, 2004: Pencil Point Plugs Pinhole Leak In Pinch

One late Sunday night I decided to replace the plumbing main in my home. Needless to say, all home improvement stores were closed and I had to be to work early Monday morning. I ran our of solder, in a pinch used electrical solder (not a good idea) but still wound up with a pinhole leak at 2 a.m. In desperation, I sharpened a No. 2 pencil to a fine point, jammed it in the leak, broke off the pencil tip and it lasted for more than a week. (It might have gone on forever, but I replaced the pipe and soldered it properly.)

-- Lloyd Wheeler,
Palm Bay, Fla.

Dec. 21, 2004: Remove Blood From Carpet

If you get blood on your carpet, clean it in a circular motion with a baby wipe. You may need to use 2 or 3, but it takes ALL the stain out. It's a miracle!!!

-- Sally Dietrich,
Butler, Pa.

Dec. 14, 2004: New Uses For Old Screens

Keep an old window screen. Use pieces of screen to put over the bottom of the holes in planting pots so the dirt will stay in and water will seep out. Use a piece of screen to repair old window/door screens still being used. Cut a piece of screen bigger than the hole/tear, baste screen with nylon thread and voila, a useable screen.

-- Josie Hernandez,
Santa Clara, Calif.

Dec. 7, 2004: Clean Spots From Carpet

When cleaning carpet that has stains of grease, mud, salsa, etc., always spray cleaning solution around the spot or stain first, rather than directly on it. By circling it first, this will stop spot from spreading outward as would have happened if you sprayed directly onto the spot to be cleaned. Spot will not have a dry area to absorb it as it dissolves, thus allowing it to be absorbed with a dry sponge.

-- Tim Winkles,
Newnan, Ga.

Nov. 30, 2004: Remove Water Rings From Furniture

During the holiday season especially, inadvertantly a drink will be put on a wood table leavng a white ring. When guests have left, put mayonnaise on the ring, leave overnight, and usually in the morning, the ring will have disappeared. This can be done more than once if it does not totally disappear the first time.

-- Terese Purner-Kime,
Sewickley, Pa.

Nov. 16, 2004: Clean Grease From Carpet

Being married to an auto mechanic has brought the occasional motor grease to my carpet. To remove the marks, I spray some brake cleaner on the spot and rub quickly. Hasn't failed me yet!

-- Debi Veliz,
Mountlake Terrace, Wash.

Nov. 2, 2004: Clean Rust-Stained Sink

To remove rust stains from metal kitchen sinks: wet the stain and pour baking soda on the stain. Let it set overnight. Run water and wipe the rust down the drain.

-- Betty Hutchens,
Peculiar, Mo.

Oct. 26, 2004: Clean Stove Drip Pans

To clean the drip pans on your stove, bring water and dishwasher detergent to a boil and drop them in. Let boil for 5-10 minutes. Burned on residue will wipe off.

-- Joy Pittman,
Albuquerque, N.M.

Oct. 19, 2004: Use Alcohol For Carpet Stains

Ordinary rubbing alcohol is great for carpet stains and small clean ups. Using a clean clothe pour ample alcohol onto spot and dab or rub stain. I always use an additional clean dry washclothe to press and absorb afterwards. Dry quickly and leaves no odor.

-- Brenda Thurmon,
Spring, Texas

Oct. 12, 2004: Getting Rid Of Fruit Flies

To control fruit flies, mix the following ingredients together in an open jar or other container (the quantities are relative to how many flies you're trying to get rid of):

½quart water (2 cups)
2 tablespoon sugar
2 tablespoons (white) vinegar
a couple drops of liquid dish soap

Leave the mixture sitting out in the infested area, as long as needed. .

-- Shannon Denney,
Shawnee, Kan.

Oct. 5, 2004: Painting Timesaver

Painting a room in your house? You don't have to clean the brush and roller pad right away if you are going to use it again in a day or two. Put the brush in a sandwich bag and wrap it tight around the handle. It will stay wet for a couple of days. Put the roller in a plastic shopping bag and wrap it tight.

-- Dan Cetrone,
Maynard, Mass.

Sept. 28, 2004: Cleaning Oven Racks

Concerning the tip on oven cleaners -- this is a great tip. However, if, after spraying with oven cleaner, you put the items in a black garbage bag and set the bag in the sun (warm-to-hot summer day works best) for about four hours, the racks and bibs get even cleaner and it works faster.

-- Ralph,
Madison, Wis.

Sept. 21, 2004: Cleaning Oven Racks

When cleaning oven racks and burner bibs, place the racks and bibs in a Large plastic garbage bag and spray liberally with oven cleaner. Tie shut and leave overnight. The next day rinse.

-- Cheryl Hedrick,
Caremont, N.C.

Sept. 14, 2004: Use Denture Tablets On Toilet

To keep toilets clean and sparkling, just drop two denture cleaner tablets in the tank, wait and flush. It will remove all the rust buildup in the tank, thus keeping the toilet water clean. A can of Coke will also work.

-- Kathy Munch,
Jackson, N.J.

Sept. 7, 2004: Clean Sofa With Vinegar

To whiten your dingy white clothes, soak them for 20 minutes in automatic dishwashing detergent, then add a little soap powder, continue washing the load as usual. Your whites will be brighter then ever.

-- Jackie Fletcher,
Snellville, Ga.

Aug. 31, 2004: Clean Sofa With Vinegar

My mom used to clean her sofa with a "rug beater" and a mixture of white vinegar and water. You take a piece of white cotton, (she used new white clothes diapers), wet it in a bucket of 3 parts of water and 1 part of white vinegar, spread the cotton over your pillow or sofa and start beating. You be surprised how much dust you get out this way without using any chemicals. !

-- Ingrid Wagnaar,
Santa Cruz, Calif.

Aug. 24, 2004: Use Aquarium Water On Plants

When I clean out my 55 gallon fish aquarium I use the water to water my plants, indoors and out! Don't know why it makes them grow so well, but they really thrive!

-- Julie Knox-Birkhimer,
Waverly, Ohio

Aug. 17, 2004: Clean Up With Fabric Softener Sheets

Take a used fabric softner sheet to remove stuck-on/burnt/dried food on any type of pan or dish. Soak it in hot soapy water with the fabric softner sheet for 20 minutes. It will wipe out clean.

-- Leigh Bias,
Grove City, OH

Aug. 10, 2004: Cut Onions Without Crying

To prevent crying while cutting an onion, squeeze lemon juice on the cutting board prior to cutting. It won't make you cry.

-- Krystal McManus,
Sicklerville, N.J.

Aug. 3, 2004: Use Pond Liner To Make Flower Bed

For a great raised flower bed, use a hard pond liner as a giant flower pot. Cut drainage holes, set on low bricks or stepping stones to help with drainage, place a layer of rock for additional drainage. Support extended sections with bricks underneath, being sure not to cover the drainage areas. Fill with a good potting soil, plant. Around the outside, put dirt to cover the bottom and plant more flowers. Use a border of your choice...I used gardening fabric with stepping stones on top that I had on hand. This has greatly helped with keeping the crab grass out that spreads in long runners that our yard is full of, and looks great. The shape I chose was curved to fit the corner of the building where it was placed.

-- Judi Gums,
Conway, N.C.

July 27, 2004: Use Shaving Cream On Carpets

For years, I have used the inexpensive shaving cream to spot treat my rugs and carpets. Not only does it clean well and it's nontoxic, but it leaves a refreshing scent behind.

-- Carol Wright,
Macclenny, Fla.

July 20, 2004: Use Vinegar To Kill Weeds

Did you know that white vinegar kills weeds? I use it because it is "eco-friendly", nontoxic and cheap! Your basic white vinegar bought in a gallon container works great! Works well on those nasty grasses, chickweed, dandelions and moss, that pop up in the cracks of sidewalks, driveways and curbs. Just remember to pour it on when there is no rain in the forecast for a few days so it doesn't get washed away.Be cautious around the wanted grass, it will kill that as well.

-- Ginger Figurelle ,
Wallingford, Pa.

July 13, 2004: Use Windex For Carpet Stains

To remove stains from carpet, spray Windex on the stain, then wipe.

-- Karen,
Wilmington, Del.

July 6, 2004: Remove Onion Odor From Hands

To remove onion odor from your hands, rub them with a stainless steel utensil. It takes the odor away instantly.

-- Lynn Parris ,
Rockingham, N.C.

June 29, 2004: Remove Rust From Sinks

To remove rust stains from metal kitchen sinks: wet the stain and pour baking soda on the stain. Let it set overnight. Run water and wipe the rust down the drain.

-- Betty Hutchens,
Peculiar, Mo.

June 22, 2004: Protect Phones When Painting

Before you start a painting project, put your phone(s) in a plastic bag, much like the bags found at any grocery store, in the produce section!

-- Scott Drake,
Seattle, Wash.

June 15, 2004: Trick For Cleaning Drip Pans

To clean the drip pans on your stove, bring water and dishwasher detergent to a boil and drop them in. Let them boil for 5-10 minutes. Burned on residue will wipe off.

-- Joy Pittman,
Albuquerque, N.M.

June 8, 2004: Epsom Salts Can Damage Septic Tank

Don't let epsom salts drain into a septic tank. They stop enzyme reaction and can cause damage to the leach field and require costly repairs.

-- Bear's Mommy,
Port Orange, FL

June 1, 2004: Put Unwanted CDs To Good Use

Not a new tip, but am surprised that more people do not know to use unwanted CDs hung on fruit trees to discourage birds from pecking ripening fruit. Those AOL CDs that come in the mail are perfect for the job

-- Lorraine Hoag,
Live Oak

May 25, 2004: Stop Cats From Marking Areas

To stop cats from marking certain areas, what I have used that has worked for me -- and I have several cats and have had several cats in the past -- boil hot water and black pepper for about 20 minutes or so, let it cool down and put it in a spray bottle and spray the marked area. They shouldn't go there again. My cats never did.

-- Kelly Shea,
Harvard, Ill.

May 18, 2004: Use Vinegar On Weeds

Did you know that white vinegar kills weeds? I use it because it is "eco-friendly," nontoxic and cheap! Your basic white vinegar bought in a gallon container works great! Works well on those nasty grasses, chickweed, dandelions and moss, that pop up in the cracks of sidewalks, driveways and curbs. Just remember to pour it on when there is no rain in the forecast for a few days, so it doesn't get washed away. Be cautious around the wanted grass, because it will kill that as well.

-- Ginger Figurelle ,
Wallingford, Pa.

May 4, 2004: Removing Tough Stains

To remove mud, grass, oil, blood, or any tough stain, soak the stain in Murphys Oil Soap for half an hour, then wash in the washing machine adding ½ cup of Murphys Oil Soap to the load (not the one in a spray bottle). This has never failed yet and will not leave any residue.

-- Judy Galle,
Norwood

April 20, 2004: Tips Cleaning Mirror0s, TV screens

When cleaning mirrors or television screens try using a coffee filter. Spray the cleaner of your choice on the surface directly, or onto a coffee filter, and wipe clean. There will be no streaks.

-- Mary Stueve,
Belvidere, Ill.

April 13, 2004: Cleaning Up Ladybugs

I use duct taps to get rid of the lady bugs. Just touch them, they stick right away. Then fold the tape and throw it away. This method saves alot of mess.

-- Joanie Brown,
Yuba, Wisc.

April 6, 2004: Cleaning Carpert Stains

For extremely difficult carpet stains mix 2 tablesppons of detergent and 3 tablespoons of white vinegar into a quart of warm water until sudsy. Work into stain and blot dry. Cover with white towel and some heavy books for 24 hours.

-- Peg Carey,
Glenolden, Pa.

March 30, 2004: Cleaning Wood Handrails

Here's a tip on cleaning wood handrails on stairs: Don't use expensive cleaners or furniture polishes, instead use baby wipes ... they are wonderful and no elbow grease required

-- Heather M,
North Richland Hills, Tx.

March 23, 2004: Removing Carpet Stains

I have found that club soda works really well in taking stains out of my white burber carpet. Every stain I have used it on has come out. Works great! Have a nice day!

-- J. Shook,
Taylor, Mich.

March 16, 2004: Make Furnace Filters Efficient

When changing furnace filters, write the date on the border. This way you can see when last change was done.

-- Alex Morales,
San Jose, Calif.

March 9, 2004: Reuse Dryer Lint

There's a way to reuse lint from dryer. Put it in center of a used dryer sheet and tie corners to make knots. The result makes great fire starters for a fireplace or campfire.

-- Rose Ross,
Cecil PA

March 2, 2004: Makeshift Dust Rag

Inexpensive dust cloths are in your dryer, and most peple don't know it. Recycle those fabric softener dryer sheets as dust sheets. They pick up the dust, lightly polish and shine the surface as well as leaving a light pleasant smell.

--Dana Saley,
Milford MI

Feb. 24, 2004: Painting Tips

When painting and using a roller I have two tips. Use your old plastic bags to cover the paint pan. Then pour the paint in the pan and the plastic bag will protect the pan and keep it clean. After your done just pull off the bag and you can reuse your pan another time. Also, after using rollers and brushes store them in plastic resealable bags and they will keep the brush from drying up.

--Lisa Marie ,
Snohomish, WA

Feb. 10, 2004: Removing Pet Stains

Cat urine is the worst. Johnson & Johnson baby powder is the best to pour on it. Pour it on, let it dry and then pick up. Vaccum afterwards. No smell will be left over. Try it for your kitties or dogs.

--Lisa Marie ,
Snohomish, WA

Feb. 3, 2004: Protecting Septic Tanks

Don't let epsom salts drain into septic tank. They stop enzyme reaction, etc., but can cause damage to leach field and create costly repairs.

-- Bear's Mommy,
Port Orange, FL

Jan. 26, 2004: Removing Onion Odor

To remove onion odor from your hands, rub them with a stainless steel utensil. It takes the odor away instantly.

-- Lynn Parris,
Rockingham, NC

Jan. 19, 2004: Stopping Pinhole Pipe-Fitting Leak

One late Sunday night I decided to replace the plumbing main in my home. Needless to say, all home improvement stores were closed and I had to be to work early Monday morning. I ran out of solder and, in a pinch, used electrical solder (not a good idea.) I wound up with a pinhole leak at 2 a.m. In desperation, I sharpened a No. 2 pencil to a fine point, jammed it in the leak, broke off the pencil tip and it lasted for more than a week. (It might have gone on forever, but I replaced the pipe and soldered it properly.)

-- Lloyd Wheeler,
Palm Bay, Fla.

Jan. 12, 2004: A Slowly Closing Door

For those who get candlewax spilling onto carpet they should try grabbing a brown paper bag, laying it over the wax, and using a heated iron on the paper. Repeat using clean areas of the paper bag until all of the wax is removed. The heat of the iron will draw the wax into the paper and out of your carpet.

-- Sandy Valskis,
Prospect Heights, Ill.

Jan. 6, 2004: A Slowly Closing Door

If you have a screen or porch door that slowly shuts it's porbably not the cylinder. If your door slowly closes with the stopper (the metal piece that slides) pointing down, then give it a 180-degree turn. This will leave the point on the stop pointing up and should fix the problem.

-- Barrie R. Briggs,
Dale City, Va.

Dec. 30, 2003: Saving Bathroom Space

When cutting holes into sheetrock for recessed lights add a touch of ceiling paint to light housings -- prior to finish trim kit installation --and press sheetrock/sheething in place. Use dots as guide to cutots.

-- Christopher J. Banks,
Boston, Mass.

Dec. 23, 2003: Saving Bathroom Space

Instead of using over-the-door shoe bags for shoes, hang them in the bathroom or bedroom and use them for hairspray, makeup, belts or even crafts or office supplies. I have two behind the bathroom doors, and two hanging on the bedroom doors. They are a space saver.

-- Lynn Gocke,
Stockbridge, GA

Dec. 9, 2003: Cleaning Drip Pan

To clean the drip pans on your stove, bring water and dishwasher detergent to a boil and drop them in. Let boil for 5-10 minutes. Burned on residue will wipe off.

-- Joy Pittman ,
Albuquerque, NM

Dec. 2, 2003: Rusty Sinks

To remove rust stains from metal kitchen sinks wet the stain and pour baking soda onto it and let it set overnight. Run water and wipe the rust down the drain.

-- Betty Hutchens,
Peculiar, MO

Nov. 25, 2003: Carpet Stains

Have a sticking door or drawer that is giving you a problem? Just take a candle and rub a little wax on the sticking point and you're all set.

-- Jim Sans,
Kettering, OH

Nov. 18, 2003: Carpet Stains

Have a fiberglass tub or shower that that you just gave a good cleaning? Try puttting a coat of car wax on it, letting it dry and then buffing it like you would a car. Your shower doesn't accumulate a lot of grime and it's real easy to clean in the future.

-- Mary,
Southhampton, NJ

Nov. 11, 2003: Carpet Stains

To restore an area of carpet that has been flattened by a furniture or table leg put an ice cube on the area and fluff with a fork or rake until pile is back to normal.

-- Anne Hanlon,
Dunbarton, NH

Oct. 28, 2003: Carpet Stains

For an extremely difficult carpet stain, mix 2 tablespoons of detergent and 3 tablespoons of white vinegar into a quart of warm water until sudsy. Work mixture into stain and blot dry. Cover with white towel and some heavy books for 24 hours.

-- Tom Cavalli,
Glenolden, PA

Oct. 21, 2003: Toilet Cleaning

My tip is how to clean shower tile grout or other tile grout. Get a liquid pool chlorine and mix with water 25 percent clorine with the 75 percent water. Put in a spay bottle and spray the grout. Walk away for 15 to 30 minutes and it is done. For very very heavy discollored or mildew, you may have to treat it the second time. After it's clean just rinse with water.

-- F.G. Jamison,
Kissimmee, Fla.

Oct. 14, 2003: Toilet Cleaning

-- Kathy Munch,

Sept. 30, 2003: Carpet Stains

To remove grease or oil stains on clothing, spray with a strong blast of engine starting fluid. It works well, even on old stains.

-- Rik Davis,
Pierson, Fla.

Sept. 23, 2003: Lint-Free Clothes

To remove lint, pet hair, etc. from clothes, toss them in the dryer on the "no heat" setting for 5 minutes. You will be amazed at the results.

-- Jessica Goodwin,
Pendleton, S.C.

Sept. 16, 2003: Lower Energy Rates

Lower your energy bill by turning off lights, extra TVs and miscellaneous items that you aren't using. Nice day? Hang a clothes line to dry clothes instead of the dryer. Is it rainy? Install a hanging rod in your laundry room to let items dry on their own -- if you aren't in a hurry. Take showers, wash dishes and do laundry in the evening. Rates are generally lower at night. And don't use the Internet 24 hours a day like I do!

-- Lisa M. Wright,
Snohomish, Wash.

Sept. 9, 2003: Masking Painting Odors

When painting or staining indoors, a little vanilla in a small cup set out for a few days will take away the strong smell.

-- Michael Herdman,
Johnstown, Pa.

Sept. 2, 2003: Making Rosettes

Make your own rosettes to decorate trim. Cut desired size of wood, maybe a circle to be different, and decorate with paint or glue on decorations like seashells. It beats the boring circle or flower that doesn't seem to match the rest of your room.

-- Heather Tambini,
Philadelphia

Aug. 26, 2003: Sealing Ends Of Tubes

To seal the ends of caulk tubes, any kind of sealant, or glue tubes, just coat the end of the tube with nail polish. When you're ready to use the tube again, just pick off the nail polish.

-- Mary Koenck,
Middletown, Md.

Aug. 19, 2003: Moving Heavy Furniture

I recently needed to move a large heavy piece of furniture during painting. I knew I could put sliders under the legs, but how was I going to lift the furniture? Inspiration: I used my car jack to lift the item on one side, added sliders, and lowered it. Then I lifted the other side, added the sliders and lowered -- and easily push the furniture.

-- Bonnie,
Federal Way, Wash.

Aug. 12: Cleaning Pet Hair

Do you have pet hair on your sofa and chairs? Put on rubber gloves and wipe in one direction. It comes right off.

-- Sandy,
Peabody, Mass.

Aug. 4, 2003: Quick Ant Solution

For a quick solution to ant problems, use soapy water -- a 10-1 ratio -- for a quick kill in your house and out in your yard. It won't damage your grass.

-- Daniel Rodriguez,
San Antonio

July 28, 2003: Diaper For Spills

Since I became a mom, I've learned how to soak up spilled messes by using a diaper, which will quickly absorb a liquid before the stain will set in. You would be surprised how great this works!

-- Leslie Vrabel,
Edmonton, Alberta

July 22, 2003: Carpet Stains

The best solution for carpet stains I have found are baby wipes. Just wipe the stain in all directions with the baby wipe until the stain is lifted. The cheaper the baby wipe the better!

-- Sandy Stover,
Lewis Center, Ohio

July 15, 2003: Cleaning Grout

Use diluted hydrocloric acid to clean the grout in your ceramic tile (three part water, one part acid). Use rubber gloves and soft steel scrub brush.

-- Timmy B.,
Dayton, Ohio

July 8, 2003: Preventing Streaks On Glass

After you have cleaned your windows and mirrors with window cleaner and a paper towel, repeat cleaning using a piece of newspaper crumbled up to get rid of streaks.

-- Kathy Bosworth,
Milton, Mass.

-and-

-- Linda Campbell,
Missouri City, Texas

July 1, 2003: Kitchen Floor Stains

When cleaning stains on your kitchen floor, rub them with catsup first.

-- Darlene Thornton,
Pittsburgh

June 24, 2003: Cleaning Chrome

Use fine/medium steel wool to polish and remove rust from chrome. It is also handy cleaning rust and stains from porclin.

-- Craig Champney,
Folsom, Calif.

Never -- repeat, never -- use steel wool to clean chrome. Instead, use aluminum foil after spraying chrome with WD-40.

-- Frank James,
Chapel Hill, N.C.

June 17, 2003: Cleaning Glass

Mix 1 cup alcohol, 1 cup ammonia and 1 cup water in a spray bottle. Spray on glass and wipe with cloth. It works better than anything else.

-- Julie Hamelau,
Laurel, Iowa

June 3, 2003: Unique Plant Markers

A neat tip my gardening girlfriend showed me was instead of using plant markers, which can sometimes get expensive, try using plastic knives to mark the rows instead. They are easy to write on and they work very well.

-- Lesa,
Fort Dodge, Iowa

May 27, 2003: Removing Wax From Candleholders

To remove wax from votives or other candleholders, simply place the candleholder into the freezer overnight. The wax will pop out cleanly in the morning.

-- Kristie,
Ventura, Calif.

May 20, 2003: Cleaning Coffee Stains

I clean out my husband's well-used thermos by first filling it with water and then adding a few tablespoons of baking soda and a drop of dish soap. Then I let it sit overnight, and by morning, the coffee stains that were so impossible to clean out are gone and it smells fresh and clean. This also works for those hard to clean baby bottles and small neck vases. You can also use Efferdent (the denture cleaner) if you have it on hand.

-- Susan Vincent,
Shelton, Wash.

May 13, 2003: Cleaning Drains

An inexpensive way to clean drains is to put baking soda (about a cup) down your drain. Follow up with the same or a little more white vinegar. You can hear it bubbling. Wait about 10 minutes and then flush with hot water. I have used this for years.

-- Carol,
Ashland, Ky.

May 6, 2003: Trees Near Pipeline

If you have big trees growing in your yard near your plumbing, pour a cup of rock salt down the toilet once a month starting in early spring. That will keep the roots from growing into the pipeline and backing up the drain.

-- C. Sherman,
Birmingham, Ala.

April 29, 2003: Removing Pet Hair From Clothing

I place the item on a hanger on a door. I then use the attachment for upholstery to my vacuum and vacuum the hair away. It is a real time saver.

-- Leslie,
Philadelphia

April 22, 2003: Cleaning Microwaves

To easily clean a dirty microwave oven, just boil a tea cup of water in the microwave and let stand without opening the door for five minutes. Then all the caked on dirt just wipes right off.

-- Chris K.,
Moon Township, Pa.

April 15, 2003: Caulking Made Easy

Put a little dish soap on the tip of you finger and wipe off excess caulk. The caulk won't stick to your finger and looks great.

-- Mike Dolan,
Rural Hall, N.C.

April 8, 2003: Replacing 12-Volt Lamps

Some outside lighting uses 12-volt automotive lamps. When replacing them, use a piece of 3/4 inch heater hose to remove because they usually break when turned.

-- Don Quackenbush,
Rancho Cordova, Calif.

April 1, 2003: Tomato Stains

To whiten a plastic bowl stained by tomato sauce, leave it outside in the sun for a few hours and the stain will disappear.

-- Jo Ann Nolte,
Dallas

March 25, 2003: Removing Clothing Stains

I find that using about 1/2 cup mixture of liquid dish soap and milk, depending on how large the stain is, will get out just about any stain when used as a pretreatment or handwashing. It's best to get the stain as soon as it occurs.

-- Andrea Henderson,
Clementon, N.J.

March 18, 2003: Softening Sealant

Leftover polyurethane foam sealant, which is used to fill holes, ect., often dries up in the tube. Stick a coat hanger into the tube and run it under hot water to soften it up.

-- Jay S.,
Montross, Va.

March 11, 2003: Paint Rollers, Brushes

When you are doing a painting job, large or small, and need a break, there's no need to wash your paint roller or brush. Just wrap them in plastic wrap -- even for a full day.

-- Patty Bagadinski,
Shelby Township, Mich.

March 4, 2003: Cleaning Glass

To clean your glass of any kind, whether it's a mirror or windows, just use some detergent and along with it, use some white vinegar. Rub it on the surface with a paper and you will see a difference. It works better than Windex.

-- Sonu Mishra,
Winston-Salem, N.C.

Feb. 25, 2003: Carpet Stains -- Part II

-- Lauren Schmall,
Foxboro, Mass.

For a Kool-Aid or red wine stain on a carpet, cut a large onion in half, blot out excess moisture from the carpet then press the onion over the stain until it absorbs the color. Never rub a stain. Also works on countertops.

-- Shari Pritchard,
Rockledge, Fla.

A mixture of one part white vinegar and pure lemon juice concentrate works great on carpet stains and as a cleaner for glass. Other uses include counter tops, appliances, toilets, sinks, tubs, tiles, etc. All you need to do is mix it and pour into a well-cleaned spray bottle. It also works well to freshen drains and trash cans.

-- Donna,
Somersworth, N.H.

If you live in a snowy part of the country, here's how to clean rugs. On a bright sunny day, turn rugs face down into the snow for about one hour. Bingo -- squeaky clean.

-- Steve Strauss,
Callicoon, N.Y.

Feb. 18, 2003: Carpet Stains -- Part I

-- Lillian Patterson,
Winston Salem, N.C.

For new and old carpet stains, treat with rubbing alcohol, gently rub/blot with a clean cloth and watch stain disappear! It even gets out permanent black marker.

-- Addy Garcia,
Houston

To clean and refresh carpets: Instead of using carpet shampoos, use white vinegar and water in your carpet shampoo machine. That's all my mother ever used on all her wool rugs and they looked like new 50 years later. I have used this on all different types of fibers and it still works great.

-- Eva M. Shea,
Malden, Mass.

To remove a wine stain from your carpet, pour baking soda over the spot and let sit. The baking soda will then absorb the wine. Once it's all absorbed, vacuum up the spot.

-- Kristie,
Sacramento, Calif.

To remove carpet stains, I suggest that you purchase a bottle of Mean Green all purpose cleaner and spray it directly on the stain, moderately saturating the stain. Allow to sit for about five minutes. Using a damp towel, clean area in a circular motion. The carpet should come clean. I have used Mean Green on bloodstains, drink spills, and just plain old dirt. It works for me!

-- Anna Thorpe,
Creedmoor, N.C.

Feb. 11, 2003: Glue-Backed Vinyl Flooring

When putting down vinyl block flooring that has the glue on the back, don't worry about how you're going to get the glue off the rest of the vinyl. Just spray the vinyl with WD-40 and let sit just a couple of minutes before wiping with a soft cloth. All the glue comes off without any trouble.

-- Patricia Coleman,
Birmingham, Ala.

Feb. 4, 2003: Sealing Drafts

To seal off drafts and save on heating and air conditioning costs, insert pre-cut polyester sheets behind all electric outlets and switches. They cost pennies per outlet.

-- Alan Sobelman,
Old Tappan, N.J.

Jan. 28, 2003: Clean Showers

To help keep showers clean, use a coat of car wax. It helps the water run off quickly and stops water stains.

-- Pam Talpas,
McDonald, Pa.

Jan. 21, 2003: Replacing Screens

When replacing screening, it is easier to leave the frame where it is and not take it off of the building. That way, you won't put the screen material on so tight that the frame bends and won't fit the opening. And you won't have to chase the frame, especially if it's a doorwall, all over the floor or wherever you planned on doing the repair.

Put a piece of the old spline in one corner on top to hold the new screen, and on the opposite side on the bottom of the new screen and pull it slightly snug. Start to install the new screen on the opposite side on the top corner horizontal edge, about 2 inches from the vertical edge and go down around the screen, removing the holding piece as you get to it. It only takes about 20 minutes and is very easy, especially if you use the flexible screening.

-- Michel,
Westland, Mich.

Jan. 14, 2003: Cleaning Jewelry

For years I have used Colgate toothpaste to clean my jewelry. I apply it with an old toothbrush, and it really shines my jewelry well. Also, Helmann's Mayonaise is a good hair conditioner; leave on 5 to 10 minutes and then rinse. It leaves hair shiny.

-- Lourdes Gonzalez,
Chicago

Jan. 7, 2003: Removing Ugly Window Tint

Is there ugly tint on your windows and it's peeling or bubbling? Want to remove it? Purchase a large bottle of fingernail polish remover (generic is fine). Dampen a cloth or cotton balls and lightly rub the tint. You will then have a "clear view" to the outside world in no time!

-- Karen Jackson,
Houston

2002 Home Improvement Tips

does not take responsibility for the effectiveness of tips sent in by viewers.