Question: I can’t tell you how often I forget to remove butter from the fridge and find myself in a pickle because a recipe calls for softened butter. Normally I melt the butter in the oven or microwave and it becomes liquid. All I want to do is soften the butter. Any tips? Candace
Answer: You will never again need to heat butter to soften it. Place the hard butter in a sealable bag. Close the bag and pound the butter with a wooden rolling pin.
Question: My wife accidentally melted plastic on our clothes iron. She tossed the iron in the garbage and I pulled it out. Do you know if the iron can be saved? Bernard
Answer: Good catch Bernard. Sand the iron with fine sandpaper, then wipe with vinegar and the iron will be as good as new.
Question: I always clean moldy plastic containers with bleach and water. After I am finished my fingers smell like bleach. How can I get rid of the bleach smell on my fingers? Terrina
Answer: When working with bleach, it is always important to wear gloves. However, even with gloves the smell can get on your skin. To remove the smell of bleach, squeeze the juice of a lemon on your hands and rub them together before rinsing with water.
Question: I live alone. Since I only use a little bread each day, I always store it in the freezer. Sometimes when company arrives, I want to thaw a loaf of bread quickly to serve with supper. How can I thaw bread without it becoming soggy? Martha
Answer: Remove bread from the freezer. Place bread in a preheated oven at 475 degrees for 2-3 minutes. You will be amazed at your crunchy and delicious bread.
Note: Every user assumes all risks of injury or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first.
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