For deodorant stains, try vinegar, hot water

Dear Readers: Deodorant stains on white, cotton undershirts just seem to be inevitable. This is a major laundry question that has come to this column over and over for the past 45 years! But it does not have to be a problem. There are some easy things you can do to help. Try these hints:
To remove deodorant stains from cotton undershirts, sponge the stained area with white household vinegar and let stand for a couple of minutes. If you still see stains, cover them with a mixture of water and an enzyme presoak; let this stand for an hour, then launder as usual.
To avoid a deodorant or antiperspirant residue buildup, don't wash clothes in cold water all the time. Use hot water every third or fourth time. Read the care label, use the highest-temperature water safe for the fabric and rinse a second time.
To prevent stains, allow deodorant or antiperspirant to dry completely before putting on your clothes. After wearing, wash clothes as quickly as possible, because deodorant residue on fabric can cause deterioration and permanent discoloration. Heloise
Dear Heloise: Don't throw away those Christmas cards you have received. Some of those have pictures that can be cut out and used as gift tags, especially those with borders. I never buy tags because I have saved these through the years, and I get compliments on my package decorations when I use these.
Also, cards can be recycled by cutting the tops away from the inside about three-eighths of an inch along the inside edge. Cut a piece from card stock using your front cover for measurement and glue to cut edge along the fold, then write your personal message inside. Envelopes can be made from standard, white letter paper. Dorothy in New Hampshire
Dear Heloise: I have a beautiful wine bottle that is square on the bottom, and gunk had gotten into the corners and would not soak out. Even the bottle brush wouldn't get it.
Solution: a wooden spoon with a long, small, round handle; nipple brush (for baby bottles); and duct tape. Tape the brush to the end of the spoon handle. You need to bend the brush so that it bends over the end of the handle, with the end of the brush sticking out so that you can maneuver it into the corners.
Hope your readers, especially those who also use small flower vases, will find this hint helpful. By the way, I haven't had kids for 35 years, but wouldn't be without my bottle brushes in the kitchen -- you'd be amazed at the places they will reach. Faithful Reader in Huntsville, Ala.
Dear Heloise: I needed to replace my shelf paper, but since I might move soon, I did not want to go to a lot of expense. I removed the old paper, cleaned the surface and put down some plastic wrap that seals. Works great. Juanita Fletcher of Tyler, Texas
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