I have the greatest idea for both a better household air freshener and a money-saving hint. Buy those air deodorizers for cars that are sold at auto-parts stores instead of the expensive ones that are plug-ins found at the supermarket. These cost less than $3 for a package of six (packaged separately, too), and come in all shapes and scents. I put some vanilla ones in my bathrooms, and they are more effective than any other types I've used. They can be kept in the cellophane if found to be too strong, or placed in a drawer or cupboard (keep away from fabric, just in case). - Stacey in Maine
SILVERWARE TRAYS
I found that plastic silverware trays are helpers when organizing my craft room. They hold bobbins, measuring tape, scissors, thread and most craft supplies. I keep them on my craft table. - A reader, via e-mail
DUSTY CANDLES
Here's a quick way to clean dusty candles: Just wipe with a cloth that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol. - Casandra, via e-mail
IMPORTANT PAPERS
I read your column about placing your children's artwork in sheet protectors in a three-ring binder. I've done that, too, but I went a step further and did the same thing with important papers.
At arm's length, I have easy information for my children and a hard copy for genealogy reference. This also makes it easy for my children, since most of the documents they would need are right there. - Joanne Paulich, Hammond, Ind.
HANDY PACKAGING
I have a recycling idea: When I receive a shipment in a sturdy plastic bag, after removing the merchandise, I mark out the address information, turn the bag inside out and reuse it for mailing items or returning items to companies. It costs nothing and is cheaper to mail than a box. - Kay in Virginia
LEATHER DEFACED
How do I get ballpoint ink off leather furniture without damaging the furniture? My grandson did a no-no! - A Reader, via e-mail
According to our experts at the Drycleaning and Laundry Institute, removing ink from leather furniture is not easy. Stain removers containing dry-cleaning solvent or alcohol might work, but could leave a ring or discolor the leather. You can try a little 70 percent rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab and gently dab at the stain. If you see ink come up, continue. When done, wipe with a damp cloth and let dry. Then use a little leather conditioner on the spot. It is probably best to call a leather-cleaning specialist. By the way, do not use hair spray to try to remove ink from leather. This could make the stain worse. - Heloise
E-Mail
Print
Get The State newspaper delivered to your home. 
