Dear Readers: The winter's chill calls for a bright, warm and crackling fire, but is your fireplace up to snuff? Let's take a look at some hints from the American Academy of Pediatrics (aap.org):
Your chimney should have a professional cleaning and inspection each year.
Ensure the flue is open - this draws smoke out of the home. Use a mirror to check.
Wet wood is no good. It smokes too much and causes soot to accumulate.
Smaller pieces of wood are better - they burn faster and smoke less.
Start each fire with a clean slate. Remove all ash from previous fires.
It's a good idea to crack a window in your home, if possible, when the fireplace is going.
Safety is always No. 1. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are a must, as is a fire extinguisher. Never leave a fire unattended - Heloise
Stain Game
Dear Readers: Splash some wine on your blouse? No worries. Daub with cool water, then sponge the area with white vinegar and rinse. If the stain remains, gently rub in a tiny amount of liquid laundry detergent and launder as usual.
Vinegar is a workhorse in the home. Safe, cheap and readily available, I've reached for it time and time again. I have compiled my favorite vinegar hints, helps and recipes into a handy pamphlet. Would you like to receive one? It's easy! Visit Heloise.com to order, or send a long, stamped (70 cents), self-addressed envelope, together with $5, to: Heloise/Vinegar, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001. FYI: To remove most fresh stains left by deodorants and antiperspirants, rub with undiluted white vinegar, then launder as usual, using the hottest water safe for the fabric. - Heloise
Soup's On
Dear Heloise: Cream soups straight out of the can (heated or not) can make delicious dips for breads, chips and veggies. Their easy prep saves time! - Annie in California
A splash of water or broth may make them less viscous and easier to pour. - Heloise
Cut It Out!
Dear Heloise: I make cooking as efficient as possible. I purchased a specific pair of scissors to use solely in the kitchen. This has turned out to be one of my favorite purchases!
My scissors are great when I need to cut pieces of basil into thin strips to add to caprese salad or any other recipes. This is far easier and faster than cutting basil with a knife. - Taylor R., Huntington Beach, Calif.
Hint From Him
Dear Heloise: I had new faucets installed, and I was dismayed to see all the gunk in the trap from toothbrushing.
I took a hint from my dentist and started rinsing into a cup after brushing my teeth, then emptying it into the toilet. This keeps the trap clean. - Bill C., Terre Haute, Ind.
King Features Syndicate