QUESTION: I am new to the art of baking bread. Can you please tell me how a person can tell when bread is fully baked? Elaine, Pelican Lake
ANSWER: The first test is colour. Baked bread should be a nice golden brown colour, especially if you brush it with egg white before baking. The bread should feel firm but not hard, the easiest way to determine this is to remove it from the pan. Turn the loaf over and tap the bottom. If the loaf is properly baked, it should sound hollow.
QUESTION: Love your columns. I was gifted a lovely Harrods tote bag. Unfortunately it has some writing on it in felt marker, I have tried several ideas but nothing is budging. Can you help? I LOVE this bag! Phyllis, Winnipeg
ANSWER: The risk in trying a variety of products is that certain products set stains, however if the bag is unusable as is you have nothing to lose. Spray the area with bug repellent and blot with water until marker is gone. A nurse recently told me that she uses waterless hand cleaner to get permanent marker out of fabric. Other possible solutions: Mr. Clean original cleaner, hairspray, rubbing alcohol, WD-40, Sunlight laundry bar soap or soak the stain overnight in paint thinner and wash. Repeat as necessary. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first and rinse well between cleaning attempts.
QUESTION: I have been trying to buy washing soda to clean my cutlery according to your article. So far I have had no luck. Can you please tell me who carries the product? Thank you. Barbara, Winnipeg
ANSWER: Washing soda is or at least used to be carried by; Superstore, Sobeys or Safeway. Washing soda sits in the laundry aisle and if you can't find Arm & Hammer So Clean Washing Soda; salt, baking soda or borax are the next best thing.
QUESTION: What is the best way to clean a large tapestry wall hanging? I have had it in my home for 10 years and never cleaned it. Karen, Winkler
ANSWER: Change the attachment on your vacuum from floor to brush. Run the vacuum along every area of the tapestry including the very top. Do not soak tapestry with water; however, spot clean areas with water on a cloth and a small amount of dish soap. For thorough cleaning, contact local dry cleaners. Be prepared to give dimensions when you call.
Tips for cleaning backyard play structures:
While many play structures are low-maintenance investments and require very little care, here are a few hints for maintaining a safe, long-lasting structure.
-- Towards the end of play structure season, hose the equipment with a pressure hose. Doing this removes old spider webs and stuck-on particles that the rain was unable to hit.
-- Check the entire structure for loose bolts. Tighten all bolts and spray metal with WD-40 to reduce the risk of rusty bolts on the frame.
-- Sand all areas of the play structure that feel rough, this will guard against painful splinters to users.
-- Consider purchasing sealants made for exterior play structures and apply according to instructions.
-- If necessary replace ground cushion i.e. pad, sand etc. for underneath the play structure.
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 brand new blog/website: reena.ca!
