QUESTION: We have a two year old bench made out of wrought iron, it is in good shape and we would like to prevent rust from forming. What is the best way to clean and care for wrought iron? Betty, Winnipeg
ANSWER: Spray the bench with a garden hose or pressure washer to get rid of dust, spider webs and dirt. Using dish soap and water, scrub the bench and rinse with vinegar or water. If the surface is very dirty, use an abrasive cloth to tackle those areas. After the bench is clean, in a ventilated area spray the bench with WD-40 to prevent rust from forming. Use a cloth to make sure that WD-40 hits each part of the bench. For touch-ups, use rust proof spray paint that is designed specifically for wrought iron products.
QUESTION: Any solution for keeping cucumbers fresh longer? Jasiah, Winnipeg
ANSWER: If you want to store cucumbers for several days; wrap them individually in a paper towel. With the cucumber in the paper towel, put them inside of a plastic bag and into the refrigerator. Store cucumbers away from melons, bananas and tomatoes.
QUESTION: Someone closed the door of our high-efficiency front-loading washing machine, instead of leaving it open to dry out after use, and now it smells like a swamp inside. Cottons washed in it also has that smell. Is there a solution to this problem? Marilyn, Lockport
ANSWER: This is a common challenge with washing machines, often the doors to the machines are tightly sealed and moisture has no chance of escaping between uses. Thus, mold forms under the seal and within the mechanics of the machine. It is true that you should keep the door open when the machine is not in use so that moisture can escape. You can run one cup of vinegar and a half cup of baking soda through the machine once a week to kill odors. Also, stop (if you are) using liquid fabric softeners, these tend to build-up in the machine and produce mold. As well, lift the seal and clean underneath with a paste of three per cent hydrogen peroxide and borax or toothpaste and an old toothbrush, you will be amazed at the build-up. Another favorite product for getting rid of the smell of musty machines is washing soda; you can find this in the laundry department of grocery stores. It is called, So Clean by Arm and Hammer. This product is amazing at whitening and brightening fabrics, as a matter of fact, I like to add one-quarter cup to each load of laundry when I wash whites (it contains no bleaches or phosphates). Both borax and washing soda are great for zapping odors. Also take out your detergent drawer and clean any mildew with three per cent hydrogen peroxide, baking soda and water.
If the problem remains, there may be a more serious problem, such as a clogged hose or faulty or worn out machine parts. This requires snaking the machine and using hot water and an unclogging chemical to free any clogs.
QUESTION: We have a mattress that is eight years old. Both my husband and I feel achy in the morning and find the mattress is uncomfortable. How can we determine if we should purchase a new mattress? Kelly, Winnipeg
ANSWER: People spend more time on their mattress than any other piece of furniture in the home. Here are a few clues that tell you it's time for a new mattress. If there is a body dent in the mattress and you find that you are constantly trying to climb out of the dent. If the bed feels lumpy, the springs might be worn out. If you feel sore in the morning.
Have You Ever Wondered?
What's the difference between deodorant and antiperspirant? Well, deodorant masks body odor by adding fragrances while antiperspirant reduces the amount of perspiration produced. Consider natural substitutions that contain no aluminum or propylene glycol.
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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