QUESTION: A red candle dripped on my 40-year-old white linen tablecloth and stuck to the table pad underneath. I have tried freezing the wax pad. What can I do to remove the wax without leaving any redness?
Jeannette, Selkirk
ANSWER: Some messes are more difficult to clean than others. White wax is easy to clean but coloured wax is tricky; smear the area with Head and Shoulders dandruff shampoo before freezing. After fabric is frozen use a plastic putty knife to scrape away the wax. Next spray the area with fabric spot remover before washing (according to the directions). If the stain remains, pour lemon juice onto the area and sprinkle it with cream of tartar. Leave in the sun for a day and rewash. Repeat until stain is gone. Or use RIT dye remover according to the directions on the box to whiten the tablecloth.
QUESTION: I have an old torchiere floor lamp which I really like, but it uses a tri-light bulb with a large base. Since the new spiral bulbs came on the market I cannot find tri-light bulbs to replace the burnt-out one. I phoned Manitoba Hydro and was told they no longer make largebase bulbs. Do you have any ideas? Should I hang onto my "antique" torchiere lamp with hopes of someday getting a bulb? The way it is now, there's no use in donating it to anyone as it is worthless without a bulb. Thank-you.
Anne, Winnipeg
ANSWER: Although I think donating the lamp is a nice idea, you are right, the lamp needs a bulb. In many cases, you can convert torchiere floor lamps to use a more energy-efficient compact fluorescent bulb. Using a 30- to 60-watt fluorescent bulb is safer and more energy-efficient. For this project you may feel more comfortable hiring an experienced handy person to help you. You will need basic tools such as: screwdrivers, needle-nose pliers, wire cutters, wire strippers, electrical tape, wire nuts, and a drill (for drilling new holes if the existing ones are not ideally located). The parts you need should be available from your local hardware store. You can buy an energy-efficient compact fluorescent bulb with the attached adapter, rated at 30 watts with a light output of 2,000 lumens, a shallow conventional porcelain bulb socket, and a rotary on-off switch. The total cost is about $20.00 plus labour. Lamp adapters are often sold as kits; if possible take the lamp into the hardware store when you go.
QUESTION: I read your column in the Winnipeg Free Press every time it is published. I, being a practical person, find your solutions and remedies very knowledgeable to read and pass on. First of all, I would like to know where to purchase your books. Secondly, can you tell me how to get barn smell out of coveralls? I have tried washing them in cold water, soap and salt (and vinegar). I never put them in the dryer but instead hang them on the line.
Samantha, Winnipeg
ANSWER: My favourite remedy for zapping foul odours from fabrics is washing soda and hot water. It is true that cold water is a smart choice for laundry. However, for tough smells and stains nothing beats the added power of heat. Hot water itself adds to the cleaning power without the addition of extra detergents or chemicals. Hot water once in a while also keeps the washing-machine interior clean and reduces buildup of mould, mildew and odour. For tough smells and stains, boil machine-washable fabrics in a stainless-steel pot on the stove with water and washing soda. My three books are difficult to find in stores. They can be ordered online.
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