HELOISE Questions remain on vacuum cords

Dear Readers: Madeline Bost commented on a recent column from a leading vacuum manufacturer warning about using extension cords on vacuum cleaners. Her question: "Why are the vacuum-cleaner cords and kitchen electric-sweeper cords so short that they require an extension cord, and what are our options?"
Some manufacturers seem to have gotten the message, because there are newer models with longer electrical cords, and I wondered if she had an older model. Madeline said her upright vacuum was about 10 years old, and the cord was so short she couldn't vacuum across the length of a room without an extension cord (which makes her nervous to use).
She did agree that it is probably time to get a new one, since it will also be more efficient than the older model, and she will definitely check the length of the cord before buying.
Now, one question from me: Why don't they make all upright vacuums with retractable cords? Heloise
Dear Heloise: The following hints have been especially helpful for me, and I would like to pass them along to you and your readers:
UWhen making a recipe that uses eggs and shortening, put the egg in the measuring cup first, transfer the egg to the mixing bowl, then measure the shortening. The egg coats the cup, and the shortening comes out easily.
UIf you wear contact lenses and are hesitant to use cooking spray or spray starch, keep a pair of lightweight safety glasses handy to use when spraying anything that can cause protein build-up on your lenses.
UTo avoid scratching your countertop when moving a heavy food mixer, keep a heavy plastic or cloth place mat under the mixer. It slides easily and protects the countertop.
UIf you need extra hot pads (to set hot dishes on) for picnics, get-togethers or to transport hot foods, simply cut a square of cardboard to the needed size and cover the cardboard with aluminum foil. These hot pads are economical, durable and not a problem if they are lost or misplaced. Marie Emberg, Punxsutawney, Pa.
Marie, thanks for a slew of good all-around hints! Heloise
Dear Heloise: Moving is such a hassle! Here is something helpful that I wanted to pass along: When setting up a room in a new house, keep a notepad handy to write down things needed, like special hanging devices, tools, etc.
This way, you only have to make one trip to the store to buy everything needed and get back to work. Joyce B., Buffalo, N.Y.
Dear Heloise: Recently, while sewing a button on a shirt, I spilled my box of straight pins on the floor. I solved the problem of picking them up by taking a small magnet from my refrigerator and sweeping it over the pins. I had them back in the box in a jiffy. Marilyn Cook, Via E-mail
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