QUESTION: Do you have any advice for removing what seems like an impossible-to-remove blue stain that has developed in my toilet bowl? I wonder if a product I used had a reaction. We have well water, and usually I use bathroom cleaner. It is an old toilet, so maybe it is just time for a new one. Both toilets in the house have a blue stain, but this older one is encompassing the entire bowl.
Answer: Consider a product called Iron Out (found at most hardware stores). Use it according to the directions on the bottle and it should remove the stain.
Question: I have multiple allergies, and I have a few pieces of solid oak furniture. I cannot use commercial wood polish or anything like that, so I wondered if you have any ideas of what I can use to bring up the natural lustre of the wood. Thanks.
— Helen
Answer: I love to use plain old olive oil combined with a few drops of lemon essential oil. Here is a recipe I received from a regular contributor. She uses this solution on her wooden furniture: 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup vinegar, two teaspoons lemon juice. Mix in spray bottle. The recipe can be easily doubled or tripled. You need a bit of elbow grease to bring up a nice shine, but it’s worth it. Shake it well each time you use it.
Question: My black fabrics often become very light and old-looking after only a few washes. Any suggestions as to how I can intensify the black colour?
— Geoffrey
Answer: Add two cups of strong coffee during your rinse cycle to bring back the intensity.
Question: When purchasing eggs for a baking recipe, does it matter what size eggs I use? Thanks.
— Randy
Answer: Most recipes call for large-size eggs.
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 at reena.ca. Ask a question or share a tip at reena.ca.
