HELOISE: Tips help make moving easier

Dear Heloise: I have a few suggestions on how to make moving a little easier.

Several weeks before the move, start packing boxes with the items you will not need for at least a month. Pack by category — all the books one day, all the paintings, prints and pictures another day, etc. Some of the categories may take more than one day, but if you find yourself finished early one day, start collecting from each room the things in the next day’s category so you have a head start.

Number each box as you go, and keep a list in a notebook dedicated to the move. You don’t need to list every item, just the category inside and maybe some general notes.

In the last few days, you can pack the curtains, kitchen essentials you’ll need on arrival at the new place, and clothing and personal items you’ll want to have right when you get there. Use paper plates, napkins and cups for the last few days, and order in or go out! By the time moving day comes, your house should be stripped bare of everything but the furniture, with stacks of boxes ready to be loaded.

Nancy in Maryland

Thanks for sharing your hints about a successful move.

Heloise

Dear Heloise: When I’m going on a trip, I put milk and juice in the freezer so it doesn’t go bad. When I return, I have juice and milk the next day and do not have to go to the store right away.

C.A. Knee, via e-mail

This is a hint some people do, me included. However, after calling several well-known milk producers, they don’t recommend freezing milk. Anytime there is a temperature change, it may change the consistency of the milk. Whole milk does not freeze, but I have not had a problem with skim milk.

Heloise

Dear Heloise: The best way I have found to clean and disinfect my sponges and dishcloths is to fill my sink 1/4 of the way with hot water, adding 1/4 to 1/3 cup of regular bleach (1 tablespoon of bleach to 1 gallon of water is the recommended ratio for soaking items, but always check the bleach manufacturer’s recommendations on packaging — Heloise). I soak the sponges, dishcloths and sink strainers for five to 10 minutes. While soaking, I dip some paper towels in the bleach solution and wipe down the faucets, refrigerator door handles, countertops, etc. Then I let the sponges and dishcloths air-dry, and everything is fresh and sweet-smelling.

Theresa in Florida

Dear Heloise: I find it very handy to use muffin liners to put various daily vitamins in to keep them from rolling around or perhaps dropping to the floor. It is a cheap solution, and it can be carried to the table or wherever you finally do take them.

Virginia Pannkoke in Arizona

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

King Features Syndicate