Dear Reena: I purchased a new pair of shoes and when I returned home, I noticed that one shoe fits looser than the other. Is there any way to stretch the tight shoe so that it fits comfortably?
Randy
Dear Randy: Put the nozzle of a hair dryer inside the shoe on a low setting. After a few minutes, stuff the shoe with crumpled newspaper to stretch it, leave it alone for a few days. Remove the newspaper and test the shoe. Repeat if necessary.
Dear Reena: I store a rope inside my car for emergency purposes. After years of storage, the rope frayed. Is there any way to repair the rope or should I throw it out?
Maney
Dear Maney: Slice the rope to establish a clean cut. Using a paintbrush and shellac, brush the ends of the rope to prevent further fraying.
Dear Reena: What are a few names of easy-to-care-for indoor plants that are perfect for beginner gardeners?
Jess
Dear Jess: Here are a few examples of plants that are difficult to kill. Cactus plants require little care and are typically quite hardy. Spider plants grow well in a variety of temperatures and light sources; they are not picky when it comes to water amounts. The snake plant is another option and likes to be held in a small pot so that the shoots grow close together. Lucky bamboo is another hardy plant that requires little water or light to thrive.
Always remember that contrary to popular belief, overwatering your houseplants is considerably more detrimental than underwatering them.
Dear Reena: My kitchen sink looks old and rusty. Do you have any ideas of how I can clean it to make it shine like new?
Darci
Dear Darci: Plug the hole in your sink and sprinkle the basin with a generous amount of baking soda (about half a box). Pour one cup lemon juice into the sink and scrub with an abrasive, non-scratching pad. Rinse with water and dry. Wipe the basin interior with a small amount of olive oil and polish to guard against rust and water stains.
Great tips and tricks
• If you have ever had the experience of repairing a garden hose, you might notice that metal connectors and clamps tend to stick out and get snagged on the lawn, making it difficult to pull the hose without damaging the grass. After repairing the hose, wrap the clamp with duct tape so that the hose is smooth.
Sam
• My dog tends to shed a lot all over my dark clothing. To remove the fur, I have a cool trick. While wearing the clothing, wet your hands and glide your hands downward to the hem of the garment. The fur clumps together into one ball and can then be tossed into the garbage can.
Jess
• Store paint cans upside down to prevent rust or paint skin from forming around the rim.
Valerie
Note: Every user assumes all risks of injury or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test products on an inconspicuous area first.
Check Reena’s website — reena.ca — to send tips and questions, to find missed columns or mislaid solutions, or to engage Reena to speak at an upcoming event.
