Question: I received a beautiful, fluffy throw blanket for Christmas last year. How should I wash it so that it doesn’t lose its softness? Cheri
Answer: Wash your throws by themselves so that the fuzz from the blanket does not jump onto your clothing. Use cold water and dry on the lowest heat setting, or air fluff to dry. Use a small amount of detergent. Some people like to add fabric softener to the load, but I prefer to wash without softener.
Question: Does baking powder or baking soda make food crispy? Corbett
Answer: Baking powder is a leavening agent which is made by combining baking soda, cream of tartar and cornstarch. Baking powder creates little bubbles when combined with oil and dries the skin, leaving it crispy and crunchy. Baking soda can also be used to make foods crispy. For best results, activate baking soda by combining it with a food acid such as vinegar or lemon juice.
Question: What is your trick to get crazy glue off fingers? Henry
Answer: When this happens soak (and I mean soak your fingers for at least 15 minutes) in either cola or the hottest water you can stand or acetone. Gently pry the glue off your fingers and wash.
Question: Is it appropriate to tip a handyman and if so, how much is acceptable? Mary
Answer: Whether accessing the services of a handy person, hair stylist, restaurant, spa, delivery driver, coat checker, hotel or health and lifestyle service, begin by asking yourself how you would rate the service. In other words, decide if you were happy with the service. Also, remind yourself that many service providers rely on tip money to support themselves. The standard tip rate in Manitoba is between 15 and 20 per cent. Be aware, some establishments automatically add the tip to the bill.
Question: We own a white refrigerator. It has the “rough” coating on the front with some black marks that have been embedded into the material. Cleaning doesn’t seem to do the trick, so I think I must paint it. The hardware store wasn’t very helpful and told me that nothing can be done. Do you know of any paint or finish that I could apply to it to make it look like new? David
Answer: I painted appliances once and they looked great for the first few months but after a while they looked worse than before. However, that was a long time ago and so if you are intending to paint, check with a reputable paint specialist for the best paint option. I am also wondering if you have tried erasing the black marks with a rubber eraser or Mr. Clean Magic Eraser or a paste of baking soda and water or Bar Keepers Friend, or WD-40 or Goo Gone (worth a try). Whatever you choose, please test on an inconspicuous area first.
Light-bulb moments
A while ago you had an article about how to remove tea stains off your teacups (works for coffee too) use the Mr. Magic Eraser. Works great and easy too. — Sheila
My hands were so dry this winter and I couldn’t figure out why. I then switched from washing my hands with dish soap to actual liquid hand soap. Now my hands are back to normal. — Jordan
I clip plastic bread tags to electrical cords to identify which cord is plugged into each outlet. I use a marker to write on the bread tag i.e., printer, computer, mouse etc. — Sangeet
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.
Have a great suggestion or tip? Please send an email at: info@reena.ca. Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website: reena.ca.
