QUESTION: We have marble tile in our TV room and I noticed a spill on the floor. After cleaning it with a damp rag, the finish seems to have been damaged and there is now a dull spot on that tile about three inches by three inches. I am wondering what I can do to restore the glossy finish. Thanks for your help. Kim, Winnipeg
ANSWER: Water does not normally etch marble but, in some areas where there is even a small amount of acid in the water, it is possible. The good news is there are products designed specifically for this challenge. One popular compound is called Marble Polish Etch Remover. If the damage is severe or if you have honed marble, then you will need a professional marble expert to repair the area.
QUESTION: Help! I have what I thought was a stainless-steel fridge but am told it cannot be because metal adheres to it, which is not the case with stainless steel.
Anyway, I have now got some fairly good scratches on the top freezer door caused by a bad fridge magnet. I am wondering if I can use fine sandpaper to get rid of them. They really show up and I have the door covered with grandchildrens drawings but would really like to get it back to its original state. I would greatly appreciate any suggestions you can give me! Jean, Winnipeg
ANSWER: The term stainless steel is really a collective name for a steel alloy that is mixed with other metals. Chromium added to stainless steel helps to repel stains. The addition of nickel to the stainless-steel compound helps to strengthen the protective qualities of chromium.
Just because metal adheres to your fridge does not necessarily mean that it isnt stainless steel, because magnets can stick to steel. However, there are many stainless alloy steels that are non-magnetic. In fact, different stainless steels contain different proportions of nickel. If nickel is non-existent in your stainless steel, then your fridge will be magnetic.
When scratches occur, stainless-steel cleaner may help to repair them. Other options that have had great success are Revere Copper Cleaner and Scratch B Gone (test on an inconspicuous area first). If youre brave and want a slightly riskier option, you can use abrasive pads with 80-120 grit or grey 3Ms Scotchbrite pads. Sand along the grain until scratches are gone. Polish with the 3M maroon pad.
Also keep in mind that the position in which your light bulbs are angled towards the appliance will make the scratches more noticeable.
QUESTION: Every Saturday I purchase the Winnipeg Free Press just so that I can read your column. I know that in one of your past articles you had given tips on how to renew the shine of hardwoods. I have beautiful oak floors throughout our home. After several years of installing, we are almost finished with all of the rooms -- one bedroom left to go. Floors have been installed, sanded, stained and then finished (last job by a hardwood expert).
My problem is that over the years the original areas that were done are looking dull. I have only used water on them to clean. I was wondering if you could repeat your tips on recreating the shine on hardwood floors and, if not, please advise which of your books would be the best to purchase that would answer the question. Thanks. Shanley, Winnipeg
ANSWER: I gave a solution for treating urine on hardwood floors a few weeks ago, but this was not for general cleaning purposes. When it comes to hardwood floors, its a good idea to purchase products recommended by the manufacturer such as Torleys, Columbia or Cedar Squeaky for regular cleaning, or commercial hardwood-restoring products.
If your hardwood floors contain surface scratches or fading, a coat of polyurethane may be exactly what they need to restore the original lustre and beauty of the wood. On the other hand, if your floors contain deep scratches and stains have been imbedded into areas of the floor where the finish has worn off, you will want to consider refinishing.
If youd rather make your own polish: Into a spray bottle, combine 50/50 white vinegar and cooking oil. Spray a small area and buff with a soft cloth. This information was taken from Household Solutions 2 with Kitchen Secrets.
QUESTION: Help! My sons hockey gloves stink. What can I do to survive this winter? Paul, Lynn Lake
ANSWER: When it comes to storing hockey equipment, the first step is to make a hockey tree using old hockey sticks and nails. Whenever your hockey player returns home from a game or a practice, make sure that he or she hangs all equipment on the tree, which should be stored in a cold, ventilated area such as an uninsulated garage or outside. Pack the gloves with newspaper when they are not in use.
Another trick used by hockey players is to pack the gloves with clean socks dusted with baking soda or talcum powder. The powdery substance absorbs some of the odours. Or pack the gloves with dryer sheets and remove before each use.
Before washing equipment, check care-label instructions. I wash hockey gloves in my front-end washing machine and lay them out to dry. You can even add one-quarter cup of borax or washing soda to the machine to help zap the smell. The hockey gloves do not lose their shape, and I can once again breathe easy.
Fabulous New Years Eve tips:
-- Do not drink and drive because it is very stupid. All it takes is one second and life will never be the same.
-- Do not travel with anyone who has consumed alcohol even if they say, "Im not drunk, Im fine. I just had a few."
-- According to the Manitoba Government, persons convicted of drive impaired, drive with a blood-alcohol concentration over .08 or refuse breath/blood sample may receive the following penalties (along with a list of additional penalties): A minimum fine of $1,000 for a first conviction. A mandatory minimum jail sentence of 30 days for a second conviction or 120 days for subsequent convictions. A minimum one-year driving prohibition for a first conviction, a minimum two-year driving prohibition for a second conviction and a minimum three- year driving prohibition for subsequent convictions.
Have a safe and wonderful 2012 Manitoba!
Reena Nerbas is the author of the national bestselling Household Solutions series. Her website is www.householdsolutions.org You can contact her at Box 429, Blumenort, Man., ROA 0C0.
