QUESTION: The water-level indicator in my electric kettle is edged with brown gunk. What is it and how do I get rid of it? Lorie (Winnipeg)
ANSWER: Depending on your water source it may be minerals, rust or calcium. All you need to do is boil a half cup of vinegar in the kettle. Turn the kettle off and let sit it for a couple of hours. Pour the contents down the drain. Repeat several times a year, as needed.
QUESTION: I have a problem I have been trying to solve with all kinds of products. We picked up some tape from the dollar store. It was silver but it sure did work. We decided to install this tape on our windows to stop air leakage in the winter. When I tore the tape off, it was so sticky. I've tried Goo Gone, nail polish remover, wax remover for floors, dish soap and Murphy's oil soap. Help! That tape left glue that is almost impossible to remove. I have not tried WD-40 and I wondered about that. Oh, and the windows are vinyl, not wood. Thanks if you can help. Donna (Winnipeg)
ANSWER: You've got it, Donna. Spray the area with WD-40, leave it for 10-20 minutes and then scrape with a plastic putty knife. Clean the window to remove the WD-40 smell.
QUESTION: We own metal garage doors. Every time my husband paints them they seem to peel, even if he uses a primer and or vinegar before painting. Any solution to this problem would be appreciated. Marilyn (Winnipeg)
ANSWER: Before painting, sand the doors with medium-grade sandpaper, then wash them with a mixture of T.S.P. and water. Next, prime the doors with rust-inhibiting primer formulated for steel. Leave to dry. Purchase and apply a sample of latex exterior paint for metal surfaces. Wait a couple of hours and place a strip of masking tape on a painted door. Remove the tape. If the paint peels due to humidity or temperature, speak with your paint specialist and try an alternate paint.
Feedback from Manitobans who care
Re: Where to store car registration
The owner should consider who drives this car and how often. As I'm the only one who drives my car, the registration is kept with my driver's licence. However, if multiple family members (or others) frequently drive the car, it must be accessible as needed. Whichever the case, I agree the glove box is not the best place.
Re: Dirty toilet bowl
I have been cleaning my toilets that are stained by hard water with Rawleighs Bowl Cleaner for many years. It is the only thing that will work 100 per cent of the time. It is also septic safe, but harsh, and has to be used with caution (it only has to be used occasionally). Watkins also has a similar brand that is easier to find.
I enjoy your questions and tips, keep them coming. Missed a column? Can't remember a solution? Need a motivational speaker for an upcoming event? Check out my website: Reena.ca.
