HELOISE Check for filter in washing machine

Dear Heloise: In a recent column, a reader had a problem with a musty smell in her washing machine. If your suggestion of bleach did not correct the problem, then she should by all means check her owner's manual to see if there is a filter in the machine that needs cleaning after each load is washed.
While helping a friend with laundry, I discovered that her machine had a filter, and she didn't know it existed. She'd had the machine for several years. Can you imagine the impacted hair and other debris that had collected? I could imagine a musty smell coming from a situation like that. Della Heckmann, Houston
Yuck! You're right -- our source said some front-load washing machines might have a filter, so check your manual. It's important to keep owner's manuals for just such a reason. Most people keep them, but when you want to look something up, they can't be found. A good hint is to keep them in a three-ring binder or in a large accordion-type folder. Heloise
Dear Heloise: I have big shoulders for my 5-foot-2-inch-tall frame. I do not need most of the shoulder pads that are in outfits or blouses.
Several years ago, I started cutting them out and noticed some have rather rough fabric over a good sponge.
I then began using them as scrub pads when washing dishes and for minor sticky spots. They are easy to hold, get into tight places, and they can be disposed of very easily. I use them on walls for smudges and for icky fry pans. Also, they work wonderfully when put on the end of a wooden spoon to get to tough spots, like in bud vases, etc. D.V. Aitkin, Via E-mail
Dear Heloise: This is how I have succeeded in keeping the contents of my kitchen cabinets and pantry straight:
Immediately after cleaning out and reorganizing each area, I took a snapshot of the area. Then I laminated each photo (you can buy laminating film at a discount or office-supply store) and taped it inside the door of the area.
Now, anyone who is responsible for putting things away in the kitchen can see where items are supposed to go. My husband thinks it's a great idea! Penny Crowson, Houston
Dear Heloise: A small night light uses very little electricity, and if you get up in the middle of the night (especially when traveling), you can see and not stumble around. A Reader, Rochester, N.Y.
You are right! When in hotel/motel rooms, everything is unfamiliar. Keeping a light on certainly helps prevent mishaps. Heloise
Dear Heloise: To perk up colored canvas shoes after they have been washed, I simply rub a matching-color, wide permanent felt marker over the whole shoe and strings.
Red and black work the best and don't bleed through like some shoe dyes, and they are less messy. Those markers go a long way. Joan Delamotte, Lancaster, Calif.
XSend a great hint to: Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000, Fax: (210) HELOISE or E-mail: Heloise@Heloise.com.
King Features Syndicate