Question: In a non-toxic way, how can I clean off motor oil from a large truck on my driveway? Thank you very much, Barbara
Answer: Here are a few examples, some of them are toxic and some are non-toxic. The fresher the oil stain, the easier to remove. For new oil stains, cover the area with cheap kitty litter or Diatomaceous earth. Leave for three hours or more and sweep. For older stains begin by purchasing degreaser; cover the area with degreaser and scrub with a brush, making sure that the entire grease stain is covered. Another option is to pour hot water onto stones and scrub with dish soap such as Simple Green. Leave for 10 mins. Do not allow dish soap to sit on paving stones for an extended period. Scrub with a stiff brush and rinse. Caution: do not use muriatic acid on paving stones; it is too strong and may damage stones.
Question: I own closets that have round slats so that I can open them to get air into the closet and then close them. I didn’t realize what could happen with the open slats because I was thinking: great, fresh air. But, little moths hatched in the closet, and they ate a lot of clothing. What should I do? Adelon
Answer: To get rid of the moths, your best option is to remove fabrics from the closet and change storage techniques for a few months.
One of the best storage containers is an unused suitcase; line with acid-free tissue paper. Canvas garment bags with cedar tops and bottoms also provide great storage protection. These bags are available in a variety of sizes for both hanging and flat storage items.
If your storage containers allow light inside, you will need to find a dark space since light fades fabric colours.
The ideal space is approximately 23 C, because heat encourages bacteria growth and cold can damage natural fibers; however cold spaces are the best for storing furs.
Also, storing chalk or charcoal with clothing absorbs some of the moisture and reduces the chances of mildew growth.
To deter pests, use an aromatic cedar or lavender essential oil, which gives off a scent that people and pets love, yet repels adult moths and carpet beetles.
A general rule of thumb when considering how much cedar to use; if you can’t smell it, the pests can’t either.
Feedback
Re: Cloudy glasses
With respect to your advice concerning the above, as a winter resident in Arizona we experience this regularly.
Two methods are used by myself and my wonderful neighbours. First of all, simply use the product CLR. A sink half-full of warm water along with about a cup and a half of CLR. Place the glasses in and leave for about a half an hour. Then hand wash with soap and water, dry and they should be sparkly clean. A second and/or alternative method we use is the product Lemishine (lemishine.com) and this is used in the dishwasher. I do not know if this product is available in Canada.
— Marilyn
Tip of the Week
Here is a tip that makes picture-hanging a cinch. Insert a nail or wall hook into the wall. Position a fork over the nail aimed towards the ceiling, and slip the tines of the fork onto the nail. As you position the picture, allow it to glide down the fork handle. The picture will land onto the nail. Pull the fork out.
—Margret
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.
Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website: reena.ca. Ask a question or share a tip at reena.ca
