How to clean your cloudy crystal glasses

Question: I have a set of crystal glasses that have become cloudy over the years. I only use them about three times a year and then wash them in the dishwasher. I have tried different brands of soap but no avail. — Phil

Answer: Etching on glasses may be a permanent condition depending on the depth of the etching. Begin by pouring citric acid (available at pharmacies or health stores, you may need to ask where to find it) into the dishwasher dispenser and running the dishwasher as usual. You can also soak the glasses in one-quarter cup citric acid and four cups water for two hours and then rinse. Or rub with fine steel wool or fine sand paper and vinegar. Don’t be fooled, the etching will look like it has disappeared at first glance but may return when the glasses are dry. If the etching remains, the condition is permanent.

Question: Heard you on the radio and was impressed. Would like to ask what can be done if a chipmunk is caught in a room (bathroom) in the house. My friend has this problem right now. — Georgina

Answer: Your best bet is to quickly construct a non-harmful trap. Get a five-gallon bucket and cut a four-inch hole in the lid. Make a ramp so that the chipmunk falls in. Spread peanut butter around the hole. Chipmunks love peanut butter, so they will be attracted to the smell. Leave the bucket empty and after he falls in bring him at least two kilometres from your home before releasing.

Question: I have a problem with brown stains around my oven vent, which sits at the back of my stove and over part of the door. I believe these stains are caused from run over into the oven while baking. I’ve tried CLR, Mr. Clean Magic Eraser and WD-40 and nothing seems to work. Please help, these stains are very noticeable. — Alma

Answer: I have a few suggestions for you and I will begin with the easiest to the more complicated. Begin by making a paste of baking soda and vinegar. Scrub the area with an abrasive cloth but not an S.O.S pad because it will scratch. Secondly, I know that you have tried Mr. Clean Magic Eraser but have you tried the new heavy duty Mr. Clean Magic Eraser? It may be worth a shot. Thirdly, you can clean the area with an oven cleaner on the exterior surface but this one makes me a little uncomfortable so if you try it, make sure that you test it on an inconspicuous area first. If nothing else works you may need to touch up the area with colour match car paint.

Question: My "cats with a death wish" have taken to peeing in the foyer of my 85-year-old house. The area is covered in grouted glazed tile, which goes into wooden acrylic-stained stairs. There are lots of small gaps where the stairs and the floor meet: in other words, the joint is far from perfect. I’m hoping that by removing all odours, the cats will cease to feel that it is their job to mess. Presently, I dread opening my front door and we’ve noticed that our friends have cut back on "dropping in." — Jan

Answer: Please give the following recipe a try and let me know what you think. Combine one quart hydrogen peroxide, 1/3 cup baking soda and 1/2 tsp dish soap in a container. Stir for five minutes and pour onto affected gaps. The spots will foam, leave to dry overnight and mop or wipe in the morning. The other option is to clean with TSP or purchase an ozone machine to remove the smell. Hope your company soon returns.

Question: What is the best way to store broccoli?  — Mark

Answer: Refrigerate fresh broccoli in a plastic bag, use within three days of purchase since the vitamin content will decrease over time. Or, stand broccoli in a jar with water to keep it fresh longer. Kitchen secret: take the rubber band off vegetables before storing; they will last twice as long. 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.Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website: reena.ca. Ask a question or share a tip at reena.ca