Agave Americana
Mix a small amount of lemon dish soap with water in a spray bottle to clean artificial plants.
Question: I live in a high-rise condominium, and we have artificial plants in our front lobby that get dusty, and look awful! Can you suggest something that will remove the dust and yet not destroy the "plants"? Thank you so much.
— Myrna
Answer: It sounds as though the plants are too large to lift into the shower, and hose them down with water. You can vacuum the dust off your plants; cover the hose of your vacuum with an old leg of pantyhose. This will keep the suction from pulling your plant into the hose and damaging it. A dryer sheet can be used to wipe down larger petals and leaves. The coarse, tacky sheet removes dust with ease. Also, you can make your own artificial plant cleaner at home; mix a very small amount of lemon dish soap (to help get any grease off) with water in a spray bottle. Spray onto plant and wipe off.
Question: I’m just checking if you know what to use for cleaning a phone. I tried vinegar, baking soda, toothpaste — nothing seems to make it clean.
— Abe
Answer: Some people use pre-moistened lens wipes to clean their phone, but these can strip the finish. According to the experts at Apple, use only a clean, soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Avoid spray cleaners, liquids and anything abrasive, such as baking soda and toothpaste, as it may scratch the phone.
Question: Is jarred garlic safe for cooking? I prefer fresh garlic, but I cook so rarely that it doesn’t stay fresh.
— Reuben
Answer: Before purchasing jarred garlic, read the ingredients. Be aware that if the jar contains garlic and oil only, this is not a safe combination. The ingredient list should list salt or some type of acid such as vinegar to ensure healthy consumption. Jarred garlic is not your only option; purchase a terra-cotta storage jar and fresh garlic bulbs will keep for up to two months. Discard garlic if it becomes dry or if green sprouts appear. Did you know that you can freeze garlic cloves (peeled or unpeeled) in sealable bags or containers? They are softer when thawed, but fine to use in cooking.
Question: I often get yellow spots on whites after laundering. Can’t seem to remove them. Very frustrating. I would very much appreciate it if someone has had this problem and has a remedy. Love reading your column in the paper.
— Julie
Answer: I have heard from contributors who had this challenge because of a grease leak in the washing machine. Another more common reason results from products that people use on their skin before drying themselves with towels. Makeup and products containing bleach, such as toothpaste, are often the culprit. Finally, the dye used during the manufacturing process is a less probable, yet plausible, explanation.
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.
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