Dear Readers: Today's SOUND OFF is a reply to a letter written by another reader about disposable diapers.-Heloise
"Dear Heloise: In the matter of disposable diapers, I agree 100 percent that throwing disposable diapers on the ground in parking lots is completely disgusting. When I got out of my car today, there was a dirty disposable diaper there on the ground next to my car.
"Here in California, plastic bags have been banned because they were flying all over. I would like to see disposable diapers banned as well. I raised four children in cloth diapers, and it was far less expensive than using disposable ones."-S. Dawson, Fullerton, Calif.
SEND A GREAT HINT TO:
Heloise
P.O. Box 795000
San Antonio, TX 78279-5000
Fax: 1-210-HELOISE
Email: [email protected]
FAST FACTS
Dear Readers: Here are some uses for extra twist-ties:
n Bundle cords together.
n Organize loose keys.
n Secure climbing vines to a fence or railing.
n Hold stitches when knitting.
-Heloise
ONE MORE STEP
Dear Heloise: I am writing about the letter from William O'M., in Durango, Colo. He suggested the use of a pill bottle with a childproof cap to keep matches dry on a camping trip. I would like to add to that idea. When needing matches for out-of-doors, dip the sulfur end in paraffin wax and let dry before putting in a bottle. This keeps them dry during rain or if dropped in water.-Ginger H., Livermore, Iowa
Ginger, that's an excellent idea. Thanks for the hint!-Heloise
DEFROST A DEEP FREEZER
Dear Heloise: Here's how to defrost a deep freezer (chest style): The cold comes from the sides, which is why the frost builds up there. First, unplug the freezer overnight and let it sit. The next morning, remove all the food items and store in baskets or boxes, and cover with heavy blankets. Use a metal spatula to easily scrape the sides and push the frost to the bottom. Scoop up the frost with a dustpan and dump it in the yard or bathtub. Put all the food back in the freezer and, most important of all, plug in the freezer so it starts running again.-Ruth Ann Bartels, Lincoln, Neb.
WATERING YOUR PLANTS
Dear Heloise: During these dog days of summer, always water your plants at sunset or later. Not only does it lessen evaporation from the soil, it prevents water droplets from becoming hot and thereby causing small burns on the grass and leaves.-Jackson H., Vicksburg, Miss.
LIKE HUMMINGBIRDS?
Dear Heloise: Hummingbirds love the colors red, deep blue and purple, which is why planting flowers with these colors will attract them. Trumpet-shaped flowers with these colors work best.-Adam W., Austin, Texas
A WORD TO THE WISE
Dear Heloise: Please tell your readers to stop sunbathing. Sunbathing not only leads to premature aging of the skin, it also can lead to skin cancer. Use sunblock if you are outside on a sunny day, but quit sunbathing altogether.-Kelsey R., Fallon, Nev.
King Features Syndicate Inc.