QUESTION: I have a problem with my washing machine. It smells bad and I don't know how to get rid of the smell or how it got there in the first place. Help!
Another question: Is there any way to keep the clasp of a necklace from sliding around to the front of my neck? I'd love it if there was a solution for that! Thanks. Rachel, Winnipeg
ANSWER: Firstly, this is a common challenge with washing machines, often the doors to the machines are tightly sealed and moisture has no chance of escaping between uses. Thus, mould forms under the seal and within the mechanics of the machine. It is true you should keep the door open when the machine is not in use so moisture can escape. You can run one cup of vinegar and a 1/2-cup of baking soda through the machine once a week to kill odour. Also, stop (if you are) using liquid fabric softeners, these tend to build up in the machine and produce mould. As well, lift the seal and clean underneath with a paste of three per cent hydrogen peroxide and borax or toothpaste and an old toothbrush, you will be amazed at the build up. Another favourite product for getting rid of the smell of musty machines is washing soda; you can find this in the laundry department of grocery stores. It is called, So Clean by Arm and Hammer. This product is amazing at whitening and brightening fabrics, as a matter of fact, I like to add 1/4 cup to each load of laundry when I wash whites (it contains no bleaches or phosphates). Both borax and washing soda are great for zapping odour. Also take out your detergent drawer and clean any mildew with three per cent hydrogen peroxide, baking soda and water.
If the odour remains; there may be a more serious problem such as a clogged hose or faulty or worn-out machine parts. This requires snaking the machine and using hot water and an unclogging chemical to free any clogs.
In terms of stopping the necklace from moving around your neck: Attach a heavier pendant, charms or beads to the clasp to add weight to the back of the necklace, attach the necklace onto your clothing or purchase a necklace extender.
QUESTION: I have a free-standing electric water cooler in my kitchen and I am starting to find the water doesn't taste good anymore. I wonder if I should run some baking soda water or something similar through it to freshen it up. I don't know how big the water reservoir is or how I would go about this. It is plugged in all the time but it is probably 10 years old and we all love cold water. Any suggestions? Sue, Winnipeg
ANSWER: Prepare a solution of 50/50 water and white vinegar in a bucket. Unplug the unit and remove the empty bottle. Use a sponge, water and vinegar to clean the inner surface of the unit. Leave for 20 minutes and then run the excess water through the machine into a bucket. Repeat four times. Pick up the drip tray, wash with vinegar and water and replace. Clean as many areas of the unit as possible with vinegar and water. Some people prefer bleach and water over vinegar, this is also an option.
QUESTION: My daughter bought a new pair of white jeans, there was a dark mark so she used bleach in the wash water just for that area. The area turned yellow, so I put them in water with Oxy Clean. Now they are mauve in the other areas and the yellow is lighter! Is there anything that can be done to bring these new jeans back to white? They have not been placed in the dryer. Louise, Winnipeg
ANSWER: Your best bet is to use Rit dye remover, according to the directions on the box, to remove all of the dye. Next use white Rit dye, to re-dye the jeans.
Fresh Secrets
*Stinky shoes got you down? Fill a sock with fresh coffee grounds. Fasten the opening with a rubber band and place the coffee sock inside shoes when not in use.
*Rub faucet and stainless-steel sinks with wax paper to prevent and remove watermarks.
I enjoy your questions and tips, keep them coming. Missed a column? Can't remember a solution? Need a speaker for an upcoming event? Check out my website Reena.ca.
