Here’s new wrinkle in steam iron hint

Dear Heloise: As per the letter that appeared in the (San Angelo, Texas) Standard-Times about removing iron marks: I found that always using distilled water in my iron keeps it from spouting brown marks onto whatever I am ironing. And my iron has lasted for several years. When I used just regular faucet water, my irons would last only a few months. My iron is not an expensive one, but the distilled water keeps it in good shape.Juanita Rocha, Malakoff, Texas

Juanita, this is a hint that many have used and some manufacturers recommend. However, some of the newer irons are made to use tap water only! Adding any other type of water could damage it. Confusing, isn’t it?

If you have a steam iron that you haven’t used in a while, be sure to clear the steam channel first by pushing the steam button several times before you begin to iron. Just “steam” out on a washcloth on the ironing board. Many manufacturers also recommend completely emptying the water reservoir after each use. This keeps mineral deposits from building up, and may help your iron last longer. Heloise

Dear Heloise: Put an old wine cork on the tip of the ice pick, and you never get an unsuspecting stab from the point when rummaging in the tool drawer. Norman and Gladys Vlcek, Baraboo, Wis.

Dear Heloise: I love flying windsocks for holidays and special occasions, so I have a lot! I store them clipped on a multitier skirt hanger in our coat closet. It’s easy to see each one, and they stay tidy. Maureen Weare, Prescott Valley, Ariz.

Dear Heloise: I have experienced the end of a roll of tape getting stuck on the roll and then have difficulty trying to find it. Here is my helpful hint: I use the small straws from drinks that I end up with. I cut a straw to the width of the tape, place it where I need to, and no more lost ends. Great on strapping, clear or masking tape. Agnes H. Kliss, San Antonio

Two Hints, One Reader

Dear Readers: Here are two good hints from Ms. Graves of Tennessee:

•Put cheap dishpans under the sink to organize all the cleaning products. They are easily accessible and organized.

•Put a concrete block in the bottom of your outdoor garbage can, and then put the bag over that to prevent the wind from blowing the can over.

Dear Heloise: More times than I care to admit, I have lost my grocery list while shopping. My friend Betty and I were shopping one day, and she had the perfect solution — a sticky note adhered to the cart handle! Mae Alleman, Hummelstown, Pa.

King Features Syndicate