HELOISE: Washing machine buildup becomes stinky situation

Dear Heloise: Several years ago, I had a washing machine that smelled horrible. After trying several of my own tricks, I gave up and called a repairman. He took the baskets out and showed me a thick, gooey buildup of powdered detergent and fabric softener that had formed on the bottom of the solid basket under the perforated basket. He recommended not using fabric softener in the washer. Instead, use dryer sheets in the dryer, if you must. Next, he said to use liquid detergent (no residual powder to build up). Last, occasionally run an empty load of the hottest water you can to dissolve the goo. I haven’t had a problem since. I also leave my washer lid open after I have finished my laundry to ventilate it. That also tells me at a glance if I have emptied the machine and haven’t forgotten a load. Lea W., via e-mail

Dear Heloise: When staking up small indoor or outdoor potted plants, I find plastic forks to be useful and durable. Also, the card holders from florists work well, especially for trailing vines. Jan Royse, Stayton, Ore.

Dear Heloise: We keep half-filled drink bottles of water in the freezer. On a road trip, we put one or two in the car instead of buying cold water at convenience stores. Saves money, and you have cold water for a couple of hours. Longer trip? Use an insulated bag to keep additional bottles cold for later. Tip the bottles to the side when freezing to maximize the cooling surface.

We live about 45 minutes from the nearest grocery store. When we go shopping, we put frozen bottles of water (instead of ice, which leaves water to seep into packages) into a cooler or insulated bag. Cold or frozen foods stay that way until we get home. Sara, Wardensville, W.Va.

Dear Heloise: I hate my refrigerator shelves — they are the wire type. Bottled water and other small jars are always toppling over. I placed glass cutting boards on the shelves, so you can see what’s on the shelf underneath. A good place to find such a board is a thrift shop or a yard sale, and at a much better price, too! Cindi Wolstenhulme, Eloit, Maine

Dear Heloise: Several years ago, I purchased a washstand at an antiques shop. When I got it home, I realized it had a horrible musty odor inside. I took it to the back yard, scrubbed and sprayed it, but the strong musty odor was still there. That washstand sat outside for days in the sun no good!

My neighbor told me to brush clear varnish on all the inside surfaces. I didn’t have anything to lose, so I did it, and it worked. I have enjoyed my antique find for many, many years, and am still using it. Wilma in Texas

• 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