Question: A year ago, I had my kitchen remodelled and I bought a new, expensive double stainless-steel sink. Despite being careful cleaning and using this sink, it has developed many small scratches. I had my old sink for 34 years and it looked better than my new one when it was removed. Any suggestions for hiding the scratches? Rose
Answer: There are multiple commercial products available at hardware stores designed to remove scratches on stainless steel, including all appliances, even the kitchen sink. You can also buff out scratches yourself, using a sand pad for intense scratches or a scuff pad (number one for heavier scratches) or 000 for finer scratches. Spray the stainless steel with 50/50 white vinegar and water. Buff out scratches with the pad. Make sure to use long, even strokes and pull the pad along the grain. Using short strokes will result in a patchy finish. Polish with a soft cloth.
Question: My friends and I have a similar problem. After many washes, our towels are no longer soft. We don’t want to use dryer sheets/additives in the dryer. Is there a way to make them soft again? Many thanks! Judy
Answer: Towels often lose their softness when they are full of fabric softener and/or detergent. In order to strip the residue in the textiles, soak them in a full-strength solution of white vinegar. Leave for one hour, and wash as usual, using only a small amount of detergent and a half cup baking soda. Dry in the dryer and remove them as soon as they are dry.
Question: What is the best and easiest way to clean a hairbrush? Jessica
Answer: For a new hairbrush, cut pieces of old pantyhose into squares. Push the pantyhose down into the bristles; as the brush collects hair, remove the nylon, and shake the hair into the garbage or compost bin. Replace the nylon onto the bristles. For used hairbrushes, find an old fork to pry the hair out of the bristles. Using shampoo and water, clean the bristles and air dry the brush.
Note: Every user assumes all risks of injury or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first.
Have a great suggestion or tip? Please send an email at: info@reena.ca. Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website: reena.ca.
