Simple Solutions to Household Hassles

Mishaps around the house happen to all of us, but solutions can sometimes be quite simple. Here are a few examples of possible mishaps and solutions to keep in mind if they happen to you.

Minor Disasters

1. Washing machine suds overflow: If you accidentally add too much soap, pour in a capful of fabric softener to eliminate the suds. The suds tame down in seconds.

2. Gum on a good skirt or dress: Harden gum with an ice cube, then peel it off. Use a trusted spot remover on the residue, if needed.

3. Clogged kitchen drain: To break up grease clogs, pour 1/2 cup baking soda and 1/2 cup vinegar down the drain. Wait at least ten minutes to allow the mixture to work on the clog, and then flush with boiling water.

4. Sticking drawer: Pull the drawer out and rub the runners with a bar of soap or a candle.

Decorating Dilemmas

1. Uneven Curtains: Put old unneeded keys in the bottom hem at equal intervals to add a bit of weight where needed to keep curtains hanging properly.

2. Tilting picture: Wrap masking tape around the wire on both sides of the hook to keep it from slipping.

3. Nail holes in wall: Fill with a dab of non-gel toothpaste or paper correction fluid.

4. Dusty fabric flowers: Pour 1/4 cup of salt into a paper or plastic bag big enough to hold your arrangement. Add flowers (blossom end first), close bag, and shake vigorously. Remove flowers from the bag over the sink and shake off residues of salt until flowers are dust- and salt-free.

By Arlene Bascom