Stain removal tips will get out makeup and mascara

Dear Heloise: How do I get makeup and mascara out of white towels? Lindsey Thompson, Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas

Well, Lindsey, here are some helpful hints on general stain removal and how to get makeup out. First, the three basic rules about stain removal: Get to the stain soon, work on the stain slowly, and you might have to repeat the steps several times.

If the makeup or mascara is water-based, dampen the area with water and rub with a white bar of soap. Follow by rinsing and laundering as usual, then air-dry.

If the makeup is oil-based, long-wearing or waterproof, dampen the spot with water, apply a prewash spray, then wash in the hottest water safe for the fabric.

For mascara, use prewash spray and apply to the back of the stain, wait a few minutes, rub together and then wash. For more easy and low-cost hints to help you remove stains and make your clothes last longer, send $5 and a long, self-addressed, stamped (61 cents) envelope to: Heloise/Stains, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001. This is a perfect pamphlet for a college student or someone learning to do laundry. There are so many types of stains that it’s a good idea to keep some household items on hand for quick stain removal, such as ammonia, hydrogen peroxide, chlorine bleach, rubbing alcohol and prewash spray. You will always be ready to tackle any stain. Heloise

Dear Heloise: My husband crimped the straight bar of a metal clothes hanger into a wavy line. When I wash my pantyhose, I hang them on it. They don’t slip off, and when they are dry, I hang them in my clothes closet. Peggy H., San Antonio

Love it! Give your husband a hug! Heloise

Dear Heloise: Every year, we buy calendars with beautiful, glossy pictures, but what do we do with them when they are outdated? I hate to throw them away. While arranging things in my new apartment, I realized I had no paper to line drawers. Those calendars happened to be sitting in view when it hit me — use the colorful pages for a lining! With a little taping and creativity, my drawers looked better than ever! I like to do one calendar per dresser. This is much cheaper and easier to apply than paper, and definitely prettier!

It’s a great project for the kids — they get to be creative while learning the importance of reusing and recycling. Traci, via e-mail

Dear Heloise: If you have bought face makeup that may not be what you need, or may be too light for the season, don’t throw it away. Use it as a concealer, then cover with your regular makeup. It helps hide the dark circles under the eye and small blemishes, etc. Virginia, 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