My son is doing a science fair project on ‘How permanent are permanent markers – we are experimenting on various surfaces – linoleum, paint, wood and carpet.  We want to include some green alternatives for removal – do you have any suggestions. Please note – if it doesn’t remove from all the surfaces that is okay because it is just part of the science. Thank you, Frances

Dear Frances,

My favorite less toxic solution for removing permanent marker from hard surfaces such as wood is baking powder and dish soap. Create a paste and scrub the surface. Takes some elbow grease but it will come off. Great science project topic, hope you get an ‘A’!

Dear Reena,

Do you have a recipe for hand lotion made with oil and beeswax? Mary

Hi Mary,

Here is an easy ‘Bee Natural Hand Lotion Recipe’: Into a double boiler melt 4 oz. sweet almond oil and 1 oz. beeswax. Remove from heat and add 2 oz. water and stir well. Add 10 drops Vitamin E and 10 drops of your favorite essential oil such as lavender. Stir until cool.

Pour contents into jars or metal tins.

Hello Reena,

I heard you on the radio in B.C. and I am wondering if you can help our family? We would like to spring clean our kitchen oak cabinets. Can you please let us know the best solution?  Thanks, Linda

Hi there Linda,

Dilute one part soap in two parts warm water and clean the cabinets using a sponge or green scrubbing pad (not steel wool). When cleaning cabinets, pay particular attention to the area around cabinet door handles and drawer pulls, these places tend to be the stickiest. Removing cabinet hardware before cleaning will make it easier to clean.

Other options for cleaning are: Vinegar/water or baking soda/water or lemon juice/borax. For annual or bi-annual cleaning use Murphy’s Oil and water. After cabinets are clean you may want to buff them with a furniture wax suitable for your wood. Test all solutions on an inconspicuous area first!

Hi Reena,

I recently moved into a condo and I am having trouble cleaning the mirrors in both bathrooms. After cleaning (I have tried water and vinegar, Windex and Air Refreshener and then wiping them with newsprint) but they look smeared.  Any suggestions for cleaning the mirrors would be most appreciated.  Thank you, Connie

Dear Connie,

The water in your home may be contributor to your streaky woes therefore, try bottled water if your tap water is mineral rich. Nothing beats a great quality micro fiber cloth for removing streaky looking mirrors. Water and a cloth is all you need, micro fiber drying clothes are also a worthwhile investment, just don’t settle for the cheap stuff or you will be disappointed. The following is my absolute favorite Squeaky Clean Window Recipe: In a spray bottle, combine 1 tsp. (5mL) inexpensive shampoo, one quarter cup (60 mL) rubbing alcohol and fill remaining portion of the bottle with white vinegar. Spray and wipe. For extra shine make a paste of cornstarch and water, wipe mirrors and wipe with a clean cloth. Taken from Household Solutions 2 with Kitchen Secrets

Extra Tip: To avoid foggy mirrors following hot showers, smear shaving cream or gel over mirrors once a month, remove all excess.

Tips for Fixing Cooking Mishaps:

• If a tomato-based sauce becomes too acidic add a teaspoon of baking soda at a time to the sauce to reduce acidity. Some cooks prefer to add sugar for the same reason. Sugar can also reduce acidity of tomatoes used in salads.
• If you find that the sauce you are cooking is liquidy and thin. Thicken with a combination of flour and butter (add in small batches). Cornstarch is usually a good thickener, but it might help to mix it with water first. A little goes a long way. Some cooks use dried potato flakes as an emergency thickener. If the sauce would not do well with these ingredients, you may try a reduction. Allow the excess liquid to boil out of the sauce until it is reduced in volume.

Reena Nerbas is a highly popular professional speaker and the author of three national best sellers, “Household Solutions 1 with Substitutions”, “Household Solutions 2 with Kitchen Secrets” and “Household Solutions 3 with Green Alternatives”. Books and Household Solutions 1, 2 and 3 Cooking/Cleaning Gift Packs are available on-line or by calling: 204-320-2757.

I enjoy your questions and tips, keep them coming!

Check out my web site! www.householdsolutions.org

For all of your home improvement needs please contact my friend Shell Busey at www.housesmartcentre.com

To read more household solutions visit: www.CanadianHomeTrends.ca

Some people say that coupons are a thing of the past. Do you think that clipping coupons is time well spent? What are some tips on smart ways to save money using coupons? Mary

Hello Mary,

When you are a frugal person count it as a blessing for your entire family! Start by collecting coupons for items that you normally purchase. Refrain from clipping coupons just for the sake of saving money. Organize your coupons into a photo album so that you can see what you have. Save your coupons until products are on sale, unless the coupon specifies otherwise you can stock up on items and save a bundle if you use the coupons when the items are already sale price. Unless otherwise stated on the coupon, combine manufacturer’s coupons with store coupons. Do not feel that you need to use store coupons immediately, many ‘in store coupons’ are good for several months and can be combined with other offers. If you do collect coupons for items that you normally would not buy, exchange them with a fellow coupon collector. Participating in a coupon exchange club can expand your coupon collection and ultimately save you money at the grocery store. If you do not know where to join a coupon exchange, start your own. Be careful when signing up for coupon deals on the Internet, some sites offer worthless promises to save you money, just to capture your e-mail address. It is sometimes wiser to go directly to the manufacturer’s web site and check for coupons.

Hi Reena,

What is bleach and is it harmful to use as a household cleaner? Tamra

Dear Tamra,

Bleach is a chemical compound derived from natural sources used to whiten and kill bacteria and mold. Simply put bleach works by the process of oxidation. While you don’t need to garbage all of your bleach cleaners you may want to consider alternative choices. To some people, homes just aren’t clean if they don’t smell like bleach but keep in mind that chlorine in the home can be a pretty nasty product not only for yourself but for pets as well. Hydrogen peroxide is one option, it is made up of hydrogen and oxygen and in low concentrations it works well as a disinfectant and antiseptic without the smell and potentially harmful effects of chlorine bleach.

Just as a side note: Asthma rates in children under the age of five has increased more than 160% from 1980-1994. Many hospitals now a days are using peroxide based cleaners instead of bleach.

Good day Reena,

Your book series is a fountain of useful tips; I have bought several as gifts for family members. Here’s my dilemma, my car reeks! It smells like its 50 years old. I wash the outside once a month but never bother with the inside what can I do to cover up the musty smell. I have to give my boss a ride to the airport next week and I am embarrassed to pick him up. Do you have a quick fix? Thanks, Lloyd

Hi Lloyd,

The time has come to clean your car interior but have no fear it won’t take long. Number one, vacuum the interior and number two use soap and water to clean the floor mats. Number three wipe all leather or vinyl with a good quality micro fiber cloth as well as the dashboard to zap dust.

Next make your own car jar freshener. In a pot boil half cup water. Add two packages unflavored gelatin. Stir for 5 mins. to dissolve. Add two drops food coloring (optional) and 1 tbsp. salt (to prevent mold). Pour half cup cold water into the pot and stir. Pour solution into a clean jar and add essential oils or other bottled scents. Or if you are really in a hurry, drop essential oils onto a piece of cardboard or a scrap piece of fabric and place it somewhere in the car. The more essential oils on the cloth, the more powerful the smell so be sure to choose a fragrance that you can live with.

Fabulous Feedback from Reader:

Dear Reena,

In a recent column, you answered a letter about preventing ballpoint pens from drying out. I think that I can help with a trick learned from my dad. The ink doesn’t actually dry up in the pen. Ink dries at the tip around the ball of the “ballpoint.” You can save a dried up pen by holding the tip briefly in a flame. This melts the dried ink and the ball will move freely again. Take care, Michele

Tips for People Ache’n for Bacon:

• Pull bacon apart with ease. Refrigerate for 2 hours. Place the package of bacon on to the counter. Roll bacon into a tube from short end to short end. Hold it for one minute. Unroll and unwrap, your bacon should now pull off and separate quickly.
• Minimize bacon shrinkage by running bacon under water before frying.
• Instead of frying bacon, bake it! Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Lay bacon pieces on the foil with the pieces just touching. Bake in a preheated 400 degrees oven for 15-20 minutes depending on personal preference for crispiness. Remove from the oven and serve.
• Bacon grease can be frozen for future use however, unless you have a steady supply of bacon grease on hand that you can’t use up fast enough, you can just keep it in the refrigerator. Pour off cooled bacon grease into a thick glass jar or mug and refrigerate, topping it up with fresh bacon grease as you have it. Refrigerated bacon grease lasts for months and months with no problem. If bacon grease goes rancid, you’ll smell it.
• If you don’t want to eat bacon grease, check out recipes for making soap using bacon grease.

Reena Nerbas is a highly popular professional speaker and the author of three national best sellers, “Household Solutions 1 with Substitutions”, “Household Solutions 2 with Kitchen Secrets” and “Household Solutions 3 with Green Alternatives”. Books and Household Solutions 1, 2 and 3 Cooking/Cleaning Gift Packs are available on-line or by calling: 204-320-2757.

I enjoy your questions and tips, keep them coming!

Check out my web site! www.householdsolutions.org

For all of your home improvement needs please contact my friend Shell Busey at www.housesmartcentre.com

To read more household solutions visit: www.CanadianHomeTrends.ca 

I am planning to install pot lights in my newly renovated home. Are there
any guidelines as to where to place the lights? Bentley 

Dear Bentley,

Try not to place lights too close together or in rows down the center of
the
room, you don’t want to create an airport runway appearance. Match the
size
of your fixtures to how close together they can be installed. The common
rule is that 4-inch fixtures should generally be placed at least 4 feet
apart and 6-inch fixtures about 6 feet apart. If you are planning to
accent
certain features, center recessed fixtures in front of the objects about
12
to 18 inches in front of the object you wish to light i.e. painting,
bookshelf, or drapery panels. Recessed lights used for reading or task
lighting should be carefully placed overhead so that light is not blocked.
When lighting a three-dimensional object such as a fireplace, art piece,
or
flower arrangement, it is more effective to light it from two or three
different angles.

Dear Reena,

How can I get the musty smell of old paper out of a metal filing cabinet?
The cabinet has never been exposed to moisture. The smell comes from
musty-smelling old, old papers (paper mold) that I stored in it. I emptied
the filing cabinet and got rid of most of the musty-smelling papers. I do
not want the other papers to be contaminated with the musty smell.
Therefore, I want to get rid of it before I put them back into the
cabinet.
Please let me know if there is a way to solve this problem. Thank you,
Joyce

Hi Joyce,

Your first step is to empty and clean the entire cabinet out with plain
old
dish soap and water. Dry well to prevent future mold and rust formation.
Next apply a light coating of olive oil inside the cabinet, wipe away all
excess and dry well. This step is an easy way to remove foul odors as well
as preventing rust. Worst case scenario, stuff the cabinet with crumpled
up
newspaper, leave for three days and remove.

Dear Reena,

My mother-in law is on the way! What is the best way to clean my coffee
maker? Tania

Hi Tania,

With no time lose clean your filter, basket and carafe in the dishwasher,
never use abrasives on your coffee maker surface or heating element. Next
pour 2 cups white vinegar and 3 drops of peppermint essential oil into the
pot and fill with enough water for 10 cups of coffee. Brew as you would
coffee, not only will this solution clean out your coffee maker, but the
kitchen will smell peppermint fresh.

Dear Reena,

My boyfriend was sick with a cold and so wanting to make him feel better I
made him homemade chicken soup. This project of love turned disaster when
the soup burnt and actually set fire to the kitchen. Yes you heard me, I
burnt soup! Do you have any great chicken soup recipes? Sidney

Help is on the way Sidney!

Place one 2 or 3 pound whole chicken and 4 chopped celery stalks (with
leaves) in a pot and cover it with water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to
minimum and simmer for 35 minutes. Remove chicken from pot. Strain the
liquid into a large pot and discard celery tops. Into the pot add 1 lb
baby
carrots, 2 chopped onions, 2 cubes beef bouillon cubes crumbled, 2 (14.5
ounces) cans chicken broth and 1 package chicken noodle soup mix. Allow
this
to simmer and season with quarter tsp. of thyme, dried parsley, poultry
seasoning and dried basil. Add 5 peppercorns and 2 bay leaves. Remove
chicken from bone and cut into bite size pieces. Add meat to pot and cook
until veggies are tenders (about one and a half hours). Into the pot drop
1
(8 ounce pkg.) pasta. Stir and cook for 15 mins. Serve and enjoy the
compliments.

Perfect Homemade Pickles:

*        When choosing pickles for pickling, pick fresh garden cucumbers
early in the morning. Immediately submerse cucumbers in ice cold water
until
ready to use.

*        Trim both ends of pickles.

*        Use pickling vinegar not plain white vinegar.

*        If the cucumber has started to get seeds in its “belly” it is too
big and old to use. (I always have a patch of dill- it seeds itself and is
good for salads when young – so I have never used oil of dill.)

*         After washing the dill I usually swish it in hot to boiling
temperature water (just in case there is any wildlife on it).

*        I then place some dill into a jar and slice the cucumbers into
each
jar tapping the jar to pack.

*        In a large pot mix: 4 cups vinegar, 2 cups water, 2 cups white
sugar, and half cup PICKLING salt. Bing to a full rolling boil and quickly
fill jars. Seal jars. Ready in 6 weeks. I have never had a jar spoil since
I
started using this recipe. I used well water when we lived on an acreage
and
now that I am in town I just use tap water. Family and others seem to love
my dills! One of my kids took peanut butter – dill pickle sandwiches to
school almost every day for a number of years! Sincerely, Jean

Thank-you to Bill Turner and guests at 880 CKLQ Brandon, MB for these
pickilicuos hints!

Reena Nerbas is a highly popular professional speaker and the author of
three national best sellers, “Household Solutions 1 with Substitutions”,
“Household Solutions 2 with Kitchen Secrets” and “Household Solutions 3
with
Green Alternatives”. Books and Household Solutions 1, 2 and 3
Cooking/Cleaning Gift Packs are available on-line or by calling:
204-320-2757. 

 
I enjoy your questions and tips, keep them coming!

Check out my web site! www.householdsolutions.org

For all of your home improvement needs please contact my friend Shell Busey at www.housesmartcentre.com

To read more household solutions visit: www.CanadianHomeTrends.ca

I have a situation that has me stumped. My son built models in his bedroom, using woodworking glue for some of them. When he moved out (eventually!) we found a glue spill which dried into the carpet (perhaps many months, or even years earlier). Most of my research suggests that when glue has dried, removal is not possible. I would appreciate any suggestions you may have. Thank you, Mike

Hi Mike,

Let me share a little story with you: I asked all of my extended family members to bring me their stained clothing, because I like the challenge of tackling stains in my spare time. All of the stains were removed with the exception of one. My sister-in-law gave me a shirt with Gorilla Glue on the front. I tried for weeks to remove the mess and although admittedly the spot is now smaller, it is still there. The moral of the story: Dried glue on fiber is sometimes impossible to remove. You are best off cutting away some carpet fibers (from an inconspicuous area) and gluing them on top to hide the damaged area. The good news is that when you use woodworking glue to tack the new fibers in place…you know it will hold. Some people recommend removing glue with solvents, this has a low success rate on old glue and can be very dangerous because solvent fumes near a pilot light can start a fire. You can use boiling water or boiling vinegar to remove some glues but this will not work for all glues.

 Dear Reena,

What is the best way to store chocolate? I am a kindergarten teacher and received too much chocolate candy from my students. What should I do with the leftovers? Elsa

Dear Elsa,

Unfortunately this letter is difficult for me comprehend, because in my world the words “too much and leftover” don’t belong in the same sentence as chocolate. If it were me, I would of course store the chocolate in my stomach because I would eat it.

For people who don’t share my love for the best food ever created; store chocolate in a cool, dry place in its original wrapping or wrapped in foil. Avoid storing chocolate in the refrigerator. Milk and white chocolates will keep this way for about a year. The darker varieties will keep for several years.

If over time the chocolate develops white or gray “clouds” or “blooms” on its surface, the cocoa butter has separated. In this case the chocolate is still fine to use especially if you plan on melting it. You can also freeze chocolate by wrapping it and placing the chocolate in the refrigerator for one day prior to freezing. If you notice it starting to condense, open the bag and place a paper towel on the chocolate to absorb the moisture. Leave the chocolate there for an hour, remove the towel and rewrap. Place the chocolate in the freezer. To thaw, place the frozen block of chocolate in the refrigerator for one day to prevent the formation of condensation on the surface, which in turn will lead to sugar bloom.

Hi Reena,
How can I remove tar from clothing? I somehow got what I think is tar on my groomsman wedding pants for our April 2010 wedding!  They are a micro polyester material.  We tried a Tide removal stick, which smeared it and also some other industrial cleaner, that didn’t work either. Then we machine washed, but didn’t dry the pants. No luck. Do you have any suggestions?  Thanks so much! 

Hi Todd,

Providing the stain was not set by the heat of the water, this little trick should get those pants wedding ready. Spray the area with PAM cooking spray. Wipe off all tar. Next and this is very important. Soak the area with Dawn dish soap and water. Leave for a few hours and make sure tar is gone. Wash the pants as usual. Repeat if stain remains. Happy Wedding!

Hi Reena,

I really enjoy hearing you speak on radio and in person. I bought a hot water bottle but I can’t use it because the latex smells too strong.  How can I get rid of the smell? Thank you, Lorene

Hi Lorene,

Begin by bringing the bottle outside; freezing temperature does wonders for killing odors. Also, in order to relieve yourself of this annoying scent; sprinkle baking soda and water into the hot water bottle. Let sit for a few hours and rinse with vinegar or vodka or toothpaste and water. If the smell remains you will likely be stuck with the stink until it wears off over time.

Chewy Cookie Secrets:

• Avoid using too much flour in your recipe.
• Do not over mix the dough.
• Bake cookies the minimum amount of time, even though the center may look slightly under baked.
• Store soft cookies in an airtight container with an apple or a piece of bread.
• Do not store soft chewy cookies with crisp type cookies.

Reena Nerbas is a highly popular professional speaker and the author of three national best sellers, “Household Solutions 1 with Substitutions”, “Household Solutions 2 with Kitchen Secrets” and “Household Solutions 3 with Green Alternatives”. Books and Household Solutions 1, 2 and 3 Cooking/Cleaning Gift Packs are available on-line or by calling: 204-320-2757.

By: Reena Nerbas

Love your column. I would like to change my bathroom countertop and paint the cabinets, what can I do or should I “bite the bullet” and buy a new counter? Thank You, Sharon

Dear Sharon,

Before purchasing a new countertop there are a number of products available for restoring drabby looking counters. You can try a commercial laminate or fiberglass cleaner, such as; 3M Marine Fiberglas Cleaner and Wax, 3M Marine Fiberglas Restorer and Wax, Gel-Gloss or carnauba wax (car wax) (remember to test everything on an inconspicuous area first). You may want to look into purchasing spray on counter restorer.

If your counter is damaged by dents and scratches, filler can be used. One of the fillers that currently exist on the market is “Seamfil” by Kampel Enterprises. If all else fails it is possible to resurface your counter inexpensively with a piece of wood and a thin sheet of laminate counter available at large hardware stores for about $35.00 per sheet. For an even less expensive solution, paint both the cabinets as well as counter, just make sure to check with your local paint store about the best paints to use for these projects.

Hello Reena,

I have two questions: Is it safe to dump coffee grounds down the kitchen sink? Do you have a solution that can be applied to a window to make it look frosted? I enjoy your column and have tried many of you tips. Thank-you, Diane

Great questions Diane,

Some professionals say it is okay to dump coffee grounds down the drain if you run enough water to flush them completely out of the plumbing system. However, it takes a lot of water in most houses to rinse them that far. Chances are you will eventually need to call in a professional plumber to unclog your pipes. A better idea is to add coffee grounds to your potting soil or garden, plants love coffee grounds.

To frost your windows, begin by giving them a thorough cleaning. Next dissolve 4 heaping tablespoons Epsom salts into 1 cup beer. Leave for 25 minutes. Using a paintbrush, apply the solution in a circular motion. To remove frosting, wash the window with vinegar and water and a good quality micro fiber cloth. There are also frosting sprays available in stores. For a longer term frosted look, purchase clear self-adhesive shelf paper or frosted window film.

Dear Reena,

I fried a sausage in my frying pan with grapeseed oil and after doneness, have residue in my pan and cannot get it out, bottom and sides have a yellowish film. Can you please help me? Thanks and have a nice day, Ilona

Dear Ilona,

Unfortunately I have no idea whether you are tackling cast iron, non-stick, aluminum, porcelain or some other frying pan make-up. Here are a few options for cleaning stainless steel frying pans. Begin with the easiest solution, which is to sprinkle the pan with baking soda and enough water to cover the bottom of the pan. Boil the solution for 5 mins. Turn element off to cool and scrub. Borax or dishwasher detergent and water can be used in the same way. If you are desperately, desperate try either water and ammonia or oven cleaner. Be careful not to combine one cleaner with another and ventilate well by cleaning the pan outdoors.

Dear Reena,

I have a laundry problem. A lip repair (like Lypsol) went through the washer and dryer and has left greasy stains on the front of my good sweatshirt in several places. Any ideas how this can be handled or is this now a permanent stain? Also, when grease stains appear on pillow cases (after guests) how can I get them out? Thank-you for your great column and wise tips. Marilyn

Hi Marilyn,

You are not alone; I have received many letters from people in the same predicament. Here are two options for both challenges: Soak fabrics in hot water and Oxy Clean or soak the fabric separately in half-cup Arm and Hammer washing soda and enough hot water to cover the clothes for 30 minutes. Wash as usual. Air dry. Repeat until stains are gone. If all else fails, you can zap stains using RIT dye remover according to the directions on the box. Note fabric color will be significantly lightened.

Fabulous Feedback from Readers:

Hi Reena,

It just ‘floors’ me that your article about considering new flooring (porcelain or ceramic) didn’t mention how these materials conduct sound. We are presently in litigation because the noise conducted in a wood frame older Condo has ruined our quiet enjoyment. It amazes me how often people choose these lovely materials and don’t give a thought to what may happen downstairs. Perhaps you could add a sentence or two about what may happen to the unlucky ones below (maybe in Granny’s bedroom if you live in a house) if these floors are not properly installed with sound conduction in mind.

Thanks, love your articles. Judi

Great Tip from Jan Cooper:

Ever been frustrated by the puddle of water that collects on the floor after a shower? Jan Cooper talked to a friend who shared this tid bit. Sew a piece of Velcro to the shower curtain, adhere the other section of Velcro to the wall. During shower time attach the curtain to the wall to alleviate all gaps.

Additional Tips:

• If your key gets frozen in the lock of your car and you don’t have lock de-icer. Use hand sanitizer in its place, the alcohol in hand sanitizer is the main ingredient in lock de-icer therefore they will both work.
• Want your sled to go faster downhill? Just spray the bottom with non-stick cooking spray. This method will also lubricate an inner tube, shovel and lawn mower blade. Use caution as you don’t want to get hurt going to quickly down hills.

Reena Nerbas is a highly popular professional speaker and the author of three national best sellers, “Household Solutions 1 with Substitutions”, “Household Solutions 2 with Kitchen Secrets” and “Household Solutions 3 with Green Alternatives”. Books and Household Solutions 1, 2 and 3 Cooking/Cleaning Gift Packs are available on-line or by calling: 204-320-2757.

I enjoy your questions and tips, keep them coming!

Check out my web site! www.householdsolutions.org

For all of your home improvement needs please contact my friend Shell Busey at www.housesmartcentre.com

To read more household solutions visit: www.CanadianHomeTrends.ca

By: Reena Nerbas

Any tips on how to keep my potatoes fresh for a long period of time? I am tired of throwing out potatoes. Thanks, Borcan

Hi Borcan,

When purchasing potatoes choose ones that are firm and free of sprouts, green skin or spots. Green potatoes may contain a substance called solanine, which is bitter and can be toxic. If potatoes have turned green, trim off the green areas before using. To prevent potatoes from greening, they should be stored in a dark, cool place that is well ventilated. Potato sprouts are poisonous; cut off the sprouts and they are fine for eating. Store an apple with potatoes to prevent sprouting. When a potato grows an ‘eye’ the potato starts to shrivel. This means the potato shrinks and the outside skin gets old…just like people. Next time you see a potato growing an “eye” and looking up at you, take a knife and cut the eye off. The potato will not shrivel up as quickly. Avoid storing potatoes with onions because; when close together, they produce gases that spoil both.

No need to throw potatoes or potato peels into the garbage, they are easy to compost. In the winter collect leftover fruits and veggies into an empty ice cream bucket and leave outside to freeze. When spring arrives; dump the contents of your buckets into your compost pile.

Super Spudlicious Tips: 1) Use boiled potato water to kill weeds or to make yummy tasting gravy. 2) After you empty the water out from boiled potatoes, place the saucepan over low heat back onto the stove and shake them a few times. This prevents potatoes from sticking and keeps them fluffy. 3) Instead of boiling potatoes for just one meal; boil additional potatoes with their jackets on. Once cooked store them in the fridge, next time you decide to make potato casserole, potato soup or potato salad, prep. is a cinch. Taken from: Household Solutions 2 with Kitchen Secrets

Hi Reena,

I need a suggestion for a painless way to remove bandages. My eight year old screams every time I begin to pull the bandage off. All the best, Vanessa

Hi Vanessa,

Dip a cotton ball or cotton swab in oil (olive or baby) and rub it against the bandage, this will allow the bandage to fall off. Another option is to remove the bandage after she has taken a warm bath; water and warmth helps loosen the glue that holds bandages onto skin.

Dear Reena,

How can I prevent my ballpoint ink pens from drying out? It seems that in the winter they stop working after only 3 or 4 uses. Love your books, Mariam

Dear Mariam,

The ballpoint pen has replaced the fountain pen as the most popular tool for everyday writing, due to its reliability and convenience. When it comes to most things in life you often get what you pay for, ballpoint ink pens are no exception. One hint is to secure lids on pens when not in use. A homeschooling teacher once told me that she always keeps ball point ink pens in sealable bags when not in use to keep them working longer.

Dear Reena,

I am a seamstress and often use velvet ribbon for finishing edges of dresses and blouses. Often the ribbon frays, unravels and curls up, leaving the ends unfinished looking. Your input would be much appreciated! Thank-you, Mavis

Hello Mavis,

Good for you for keeping up the art of handmade apparel! When you prepare velvet ribbon for cutting, run a bead of clear nail polish across the ends. After it dries, cut through the coated area. Your edges will no longer fray, ravel or curl.

Feedback from Fabulous Readers:

I recently received this little anonymous gem on my voice mail:

Hi Reena,

Just want to let you know that last week I noticed ballpoint ink on my leather couch. I used non-bleach, non-gel toothpaste on the area and the ink came out instantly!

Handy Tips of the Week:

• When using paint trays for household painting jobs, try slipping an empty (and very clean) plastic bag over the paint tray before pouring paint. Instead of having a paint tray to clean up, it’s a simple job to remove the plastic bag and discard.
• Buff out scuffs on suede using a cardboard emery board or a piece of light sandpaper. Proceed gently making sure not to damage suede. Or place the affected area of the suede over steam from a kettle of boiling water to raise the nap and then carefully brush out with a suede brush.
• Before filling a garden or household plant container with potting soil, first lay a coffee filter on the bottom inside of the pot and then add the soil on top. This will keep the soil from draining out the pot’s drainage holes when you water the plant.

Reena Nerbas is a highly popular professional speaker and the author of three national best sellers, “Household Solutions 1 with Substitutions”, “Household Solutions 2 with Kitchen Secrets” and “Household Solutions 3 with Green Alternatives”. Books and Household Solutions 1, 2 and 3 Cooking/Cleaning Gift Packs are available on-line or by calling: 204-320-2757.

I enjoy your questions and tips, keep them coming!

Check out my web site! www.householdsolutions.org

For all of your home improvement needs please contact my friend Shell Busey at www.housesmartcentre.com

To read more household solutions visit: www.CanadianHomeTrends.ca

By: Reena Nerbas

How can I prevent rice from sticking to the pot while cooking and ending up with a ball of ‘glump’ (to use one of your words)? Therran

Hello Therran,

One way to prevent rice from sticking to the pot is to cook it in the microwave. For 1 cup of rice, add 2 cups of water. Season and cook in microwave on HIGH for 15-20 mins. No sticky mess. If you prefer to cook rice on the stove: Rinse the rice before you boil it (until the water becomes fairly clear). Add a little oil or butter to the pot (rice in a pot should not be overcooked). Or boil your rice in lots of water and when done, just strain it through a sieve. Perfect rice every time.

Dear Reena,

We are investigating the possibility of installing new flooring in our kitchen. We are deciding between ceramic and porcelain floors. What is the difference? Canree

Hi Canree,

Although people often use the terms ceramic and porcelain interchangeable (much like linoleum and vinyl) the composition of true ceramic is very different from that of porcelain. Ceramic is made mainly of clay mixed with various minerals and water. This composition is then processed with heat to create the solidified product. Since ceramic material is porous, the top surface is usually sealed with a glaze. The glazed surface is referred to as the design layer since it determines the tile’s finished color and texture.

Glazed ceramic tile is durable, and normally lasts longer than any non-tile material used for the same purpose. It is easy to clean, and will not absorb odors, nor support allergens or bacteria. When coated with a Grade III or higher glaze, ceramic tile is highly resistant to scratching and moisture. Another important feature is that it will not burn, emit toxic fumes or scorch.

In comparison the primary ingredient of true porcelain tile is finely-ground sand. Unlike ceramic, processing of the porcelain composition involves pressure and extremely high temperature. The end result is a very dense, glass-like material with a water absorption rate of less than 0.5%. Because of its density and composition of natural ingredients, porcelain tile has all the same excellent qualities of glazed ceramic.

Consumers purchasing porcelain tiles are often told that they will not need replace sections if chipped, based on a misperception that all porcelain tiles are the same color all the way through. This is sometimes true, but new design creations have led to the addition of a design layer. Like glazed ceramic, the top surface of some porcelain tile is glazed to produce a specific colored finish. A chip in such a surface would reveal the tile’s different body color and thus warrant replacement.

Porcelain is a denser, stronger material than ceramic. However, porcelain’s hardness makes it more challenging to install. When comparing price and durability, there is little difference between ceramic and porcelain tile. Expensive and inexpensive styles are available in both types, and under normal circumstances, there will be no noticeable difference in wear between the two.

Either way it doesn’t really matter which type of tile you select. Ceramic and porcelain are both exceptional floor and wall covering materials. The only problem you’ll have is deciding which size, color and texture you prefer.

Dear Reena,

I have mold on my stippled bathroom ceiling. Is there an easy way to remove this without damaging the stippling? Thanks for your help. 

Chris

Hi Chris,

Begin by ventilating the room where you are working. In order to zap that mold, you need to combine 50/50 water and bleach together in a spray bottle. Spray the bleach solution onto the affected area and leave it alone for 30 minutes. Use a cloth dipped in water to dab away the mold stain, this may require several applications. Repeat the process until you get rid of the mold completely. If the mold is stubborn; increase the bleach concentration. If that pesky mold just won’t budge, seal and then re-paint the affected area. In order to paint the area there are products available specifically designed to fix stipple, apply with a sponge to acquire a stippled effect. You can also use pre-mixed grout or multi purpose filler mixed with paint in order to reach your paint color. Note: Painting stipple makes it almost impossible to remove in the future.

 Feedback from fabulous readers with regards to a letter about the importance of carbon monoxide detectors in the home:

Hi Reena,

It is very important to have a working carbon monoxide detector in your house. When our two granddaughters left home to attend university, we bought them a detector- they probably thought it a bit over the top. When we visited them a few weeks later they had not plugged it in, so we did. Three or four weeks after that they called 911 because their detector was screaming. The furnace was inspected and found to be faulty they were told to have a new one installed immediately. They did and the rescue people said they were very lucky that they had a detector in their home. Gail

 Dear Reena,

I wanted to add a note to your response to Otto, regarding the gift of a carbon monoxide detector. You stated that purchasing one is a very smart choice. Having one if any system in your home uses fossil fuels is indeed the only smart choice. What you didn’t explain is, where CO gas comes from: “Carbon monoxide is present in low levels in the air. In the home, it is formed from incomplete combustion from any flame-fuelled (not electric) device, including ranges, ovens, clothes dryers, furnaces, fireplaces, grills, space heaters, vehicles, and water heaters. Furnaces and water heaters may be sources of carbon monoxide, but if they are vented properly the carbon monoxide will escape to the outside. Open flames, such as from ovens and ranges, are the most common source of carbon monoxide. Vehicles are the most common cause of carbon monoxide poisoning.” Source: www.chemistry.about.com

 If Otto has electric heat and appliances he would indeed be better served by installing an additional smoke detector, as he suggests.  Persons with a garage attached to their home may also want to consider the installation of a CO detector. Denise

Handy Tip of the Week:

To temporarily camouflage tiny nicks or chips in flooring; melt a matching crayon. Drip the wax onto the area. Use a plastic scraper or ruler to ‘level off’ the top so the wax is even with the floor.

Reena Nerbas is a professional speaker and the author of three national best sellers, “Household Solutions 1 with Substitutions”, “Household Solutions 2 with Kitchen Secrets” and “Household Solutions 3 with Green Alternatives”. Books and Household Solutions 1, 2 and 3 Cooking/Cleaning Gift Packs are available on-line or by calling: 204-320-2757.

 I enjoy your questions and tips, keep them coming!

Check out my web site! www.householdsolutions.org

For all of your home improvement needs please contact my friend Shell Busey at www.housesmartcentre.com

By: Reena Nerbas

This space, as displayed by Marc Atiyolil, on Citytv was designed by Glen Peloso of Restaurant Make Over and Take this House and Sell it. 

GLEN PELOSO – TRENDS FAMILY ROOM:

*Sofa & Ottoman :

Brentwood Classics Ltd,

57 Adesso Drive Vaughan, ON Canada L4K3C7

www.brentwoodclassics.com 905 -761-0195

TV Console Side Chairs and Black Lounger and Coffee table and Sofa table in window, Two table lamps

Casalife

http://www.casalife.com

170 – 171 East Liberty Street

Toronto, ON M6K 3P6

Tel. 416.922.2785 x220

Fax. 416.922.2788

shop@casalife.com

In Wall Speakers:

　 Amina speakers: http://www.amina.co.uk/ Amina Technologies Ltd 905 655-6411

　 Receiver: Marantz receiver: http://ca.marantz.com/

* Technical consultation provided by Saxe Brickenden saxeb@evolutionhomecorp.com

Flooring – Eco Friendly Wool Carpet : Carpet One Floor & Home

1.800.CARPET.1 www.carpetone.ca　

Ceiling Lighting

Living Lighting

www. livinglighting.com

Phone: 905-790-9023

Toll Free: 1-866-463-4124

Occasional table – far side of couch　 clear glass with cream lamp on top)　

Muti & Co. Ltd. 51 Hanlan Rd. Unit 1 Woodbridge,

Ontario, Canada L4L 3P5 Tel: 905.850.2520

Floor Lamp- Homescense

*Custom Window Coverings:

National Drapery

116 Tycos Drive, Toronto On

ph 416-787-0813

www.nationaldrapery.com

Drapery Fabric:　

Designer Fabric Outlet Toronto

1380 Queen Street West Toronto, On

www.designerfabrics.ca

*Fireplace:

　Kastle Fireplaces Stouville Ontario

PH: 1-866-330-3315

www.kastlefireplace.com

Accessories – Homesense & Pier One

www.homesense.ca

　Table Florals:

Designing Trendz Inc. Toronto

www.designingtrendz.com

416.319.7469

Paint: Benjamin Moore Paint

Escarpment CC-518 　　

Accent – 　Chelsea Gray 　HC 168

Contractors: Roberto Jimenez & Carlos Jimenez 416 662-4971

PHOTO CREDIT: Bruce Gibson

http://www.brucegibsonphotography.com