HELOISE Apply cleaning solution to patio chairs

Dear Heloise: I would like to know if you know what to use on white resin patio chairs to clean them. Mine are gray-looking now, and I can't seem to find anything to revive them. Kathy Lindstrom, Anaheim, Calif.
I know what you mean! Many times they are old and hopeless, but here's what to try:
U3/4 cup of regular household bleach.
U1 tablespoon of powder or liquid laundry detergent.
U1 gallon of water.
As with all cleaning solutions, be sure to test it first in an out-of-the-way area. Also, be sure to wear rubber gloves and do this outside. Apply the mixture with a soft brush and brush away dirt and grime. Let the solution sit for about five minutes and then rinse well. For everyday cleaning, use an all-purpose, nonabrasive cleaner. Heloise
Dear Heloise: I have an additional suggestion for the pack-to-travel ideas recently submitted:
Include a small, battery-powered flashlight! This is essential when electricity is interrupted during an earthquake or during frequent power outages south of the border in Mexico. The flashlight is needed to see while descending the hotel stairways. Mrs. Colette M. Kelly, Carrollton, Texas
Dear Heloise: I mentioned this to a friend who thought it was fabulous and said I should pass it on to you:
I keep a black, wide-tip dry-erase marker in my shaving drawer to write memos to myself on the bathroom mirror, since this is one of the first things I see in the morning. The night before, I might jot down appointments or maybe something I need to remember the next day.
This is especially handy for spouses or roommates who are not on speaking terms but need to give the other some information. It all wipes away quickly and cleanly with just a single tissue. Kyle, Bryant, Ark.
Dear Heloise: I had to be creative when I broke my right wrist. Since I am right-handed, I had difficulty drying myself with a towel after my shower. Trying to put it around me was a chore, since I couldn't lift my arm without much difficulty and pain. I used my hair dryer to "air-dry" myself quickly using my left hand.
Similarly, I thought cleaning the shower was going to be a problem, since I have difficulty getting down on my knees, even with two good arms. I had an extra toilet brush, which worked very well, since I could scrub with my left hand and reach all parts of the shower. Pat Zoccali, Warren
New toilet brushes have a multitude of uses. Here's another use from Angel D. of South Dakota:
"I keep a small, round toilet brush under my kitchen sink. Once or twice a week I use a little dish soap on it and clean my disposal. Just swirl it around and under the rim. No more smelly disposal." Heloise
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