Dear Reena: I would like to vacuum under the fridge without having to move it. Any ideas as to what I can use to get under there?
Verna
Slip an empty paper towel roll inside the end of the vacuum nozzle (make sure that the roll is tight and can’t be sucked into the vacuum). Flatten the paper towel roll end and push it underneath the fridge.
Dear Reena: My mom is turning 72 this week and I am trying to make a home spa for her birthday. Can you give me an idea for a cheap homemade face mask treatment?
Maddie
Nice idea! Combine 1 tbsp. regular plain yogurt with 1 tsp. soft honey. Apply to face and leave for seven mins. Pat and rinse with a clean, hot washcloth.
Dear Reena: Purple candle wax dripped onto my beige synthetic fibre carpet, which has a low nap. What should I do? I have scraped off as much of the wax as I can and await your suggestion as to further treatment. Thank you.
Irene
What you need to do is place a single-layered brown paper bag over the wax and using a warm iron, press the area to lift the wax. Be careful not to scorch the carpet. Move the bag around so you don’t push wax further into the carpet. When the wax is a distant memory, use Head and Shoulders dandruff shampoo and water and blot it over the area to clean the rest of the mess (test on an inconspicuous area first). Rinse with water and blot.
Dear Reena: Is there an alternative to dry cleaning clothing or a way to prolong the duration between cleanings? I find it very expensive and smelly, but I use dry-cleaning services because my work requires that I wear business suits daily. Thanks.
Ron
If the care label instructs you to dry clean your clothing, this is your safest bet. “Green Dry Cleaning” businesses or “Wet Cleaners” are becoming increasingly popular. The advantage to these is the absence of the strong, toxic chemical PERC (perchloroethylene). After dry cleaned items are brought home, remove the plastic immediately and hang items outside for at least one hour. Or you can choose to dry clean at home using commercial products such as Dryel (use according to the package directions). Or place clothing into a pillowcase with a few baby wipes and secure with a rubber band, toss into the dryer. Run the dryer on medium heat for 10 minutes (air fluff wool, non-washable silk and rayon). The disadvantage to these options is the clothing will require pressing. Freshen underarms or collar areas, by spraying with vodka. Vodka is amazing for removing smells and rejuvenating textiles. Remove spot stains by scrubbing soiled areas with shaving cream and a light-coloured cloth.
Interesting Grocery Shopping Observations
• Ready-to-eat food costs more. Pre-grated cheese costs 30 per cent to 60 per cent more than grating it yourself. Wash and rip your lettuce at home. Wash and slice veggies and fruit at home. Save money by hand choosing loose produce such as tomatoes, peppers, oranges, kiwi etc. instead of pre-bagged produce.
• The beat of music in supermarkets is often slower than our own heartbeat. An easy listening tempo causes us to move slower and take our time. Consider wearing headphones with an upbeat tempo.
• Ever notice that grocery stores have no clocks and few windows? Most windows are situated near the check-out aisle. Stores are banking on the hope that you will lose track of time and purchase more.
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.
Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups. Ask a question or share a tip at reena.ca.
