Tips will help keep fingernails clean

Dear Readers: Here are some helpful hints to keep your fingernails clean when the work you have to do is downright dirty. It's amazing how dirty your hands can get doing things around the house, the garage or in the garden.
When possible, wear gloves while you work. There are all types of gloves, from thick gardening gloves to thin, disposable ones that can be worn without getting in the way of many projects.
If you'll be working with something that can get grit under nails -- like dirt, oil or clay -- before you start, dig your nails into a bar of soap. The soap will get underneath your nails so that the grime can't. Then, you just have to wash your hands when the project is done.
When painting with oil-based paint, try olive, vegetable or baby oil as a gentle paint remover. Just rub a small amount in your hands (a dash of salt or sugar acts like an abrasive), and the paint should come off . Heloise
Dear Heloise: In your column were some hints on locating a good auto mechanic. I discovered two outstanding garages by asking local tow-truck drivers. Each one said, "Go to ABC repair shop." Seasoned tow-truck drivers know what's going on in town. Nancy J. Hight, Westlake Village, Calif.
Dear Heloise: When I buy a dozen eggs and put them into the fridge's plastic egg tray, I can tell them apart from the previous ones because I alternately buy white eggs one week and brown the next -- no confusion. Paula from Falls Church, Va.
When storing eggs, according to the American Egg Board, they should not be stored in the fridge door because of the constant exposure to temperature change and vibrations from the door opening and closing. The best way to store eggs? In the cartons, because they protect the eggs from cracking and keep the eggs from absorbing odors from other foods. Heloise
Dear Heloise: When I buy scouring pads, I cut them in half and get twice as many. Many times, a half will work for the job. Violet Dauber, Yreka, Calif.
King Features Syndicate