Damp blotter helps to separate photos

Dear Heloise: I read about the photos that were stuck together. I had the very same problem. So, I took a damp blotter and laid all the photos on it, backsides down. After a little while, the bottom photo came loose, and then I set the remaining ones on the blotter. One by one, I got them to come apart without any damage. You can’t be in a hurry. It takes time for them to come unstuck. Also, don’t have the blotter too damp. Carol, via e-mail

Carol, this is one way to get those photos unstuck, but for other readers, please be aware that photographs of different “ages” may react differently. If they are very old or one of a kind, take them to a professional. Heloise

Dear Heloise: Help! Is there any way we can get a red-wine stain out of a beige carpet? I read your column every day in the (Waterbury, Conn.) Republican-American and have learned a lot! I’ll be looking for this solution. Jean Grele, Cheshire, Conn.

There are a couple of things you can try. Obviously, the sooner you start cleaning up the stain, the more successful you will be in getting it out. Always blot up as much liquid as possible first. Next, apply a mild liquid-detergent-and-water solution of 1 part mild dishwashing detergent to 20 parts water. Blot with a clean cloth or microfiber cloth until no more color comes up. Follow with diluted white vinegar (half vinegar/half water) and blot. If the stain is still there, use a little (3 percent to 5 percent) hydrogen peroxide on a cloth to dab at the area. Always test in a hidden place first to check for color fading. Last, but not least, rinse well with cold water and blot dry. Heloise

Dear Heloise: The aromatic diffusers, with sticks, have a dual use. After the oils have been used and a bottle is empty, it makes a cute vase for small flowers. The bottles come in various, attractive clear-glass containers and retain their scent even when using as a vase — they’re too pretty to just discard, and are a perfect size. They are cute when grouped together, too. Jean Milici, Torrington, Conn.

Dear Heloise: I was packing up some of my small figurines this afternoon. Normally, I would use newspaper or tissue paper to wrap them. I happened to be boxing them up right beside my husband’s shredder when it hit me: Use the shredded refuse to pack the items. It is an endless source of packing material and won’t get print on the objects. I can reuse it as well. Good way to recycle, too! D.A.W., Fredericksburg, Va.

Dear Heloise: We wish to comment on renting a car. One of the most important things to keep handy is a copy of your insurance information. Lawrence Chapman, via e-mail

SBlt Send a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, or you can fax it to (210) HELOISE or e-mail it to Heloise@Heloise.com.

King Features Syndicate