Plastic hangers have lots of uses

Dear Readers: In a recent column, Bev A. asked for hints about what to do with all the plastic hangers she had. Here are just a handful of all of the hints readers sent:

Dolores S. in Mansfield, Ohio, wrote: “Please mention the laundromat. I worked at a laundry for three years, and we could always use hangers. The owner had to buy boxes of them, and donations would help with expenses. People wanted their laundry hung up, but wouldn’t bring their own hangers.”

Nancy Meyer, via email, wrote: “We help settle refugees, and really need hangers when we set up their apartments. Spread the word to check with an agency in the area that settles refugees. They will gladly take them.”

A Reader, via email, wrote: “Other great ideas for extra hangers are to contact hospitals. The hangers seem to disappear from the patient rooms when patients are discharged.”

All good hints, and it’s wonderful to find out about great ways to recycle hangers. Here is another hint from me: See if nursing homes and assisted-living facilities would be able to use extra hangers.

Heloise

Dear Heloise: Many people have made a New Year’s resolution to exercise or get more fit. I have a piece of advice that works for me. Have workout clothes ready. If you have to search for the socks, the shoes, the top and the pants, it won’t take long to be discouraged.

I have walked every day (2 miles) for 37 years, and I have my clothes ready to jump into in the morning. Another hint: Get it done in the morning, if you can. As the day progresses, you are less likely to feel like doing it.

Corrinne B., Universal City, Texas

Dear Heloise: With the popularity of gift bags instead of wrapped presents, a lot of tissue paper is needed. I never buy tissue paper because I gathered all the paper from last year’s gift bags and ironed them. They are good as new, and I am able to use the paper several times.

Kaye in Arkansas

Dear Heloise: Ever wonder what to do with all the chopsticks that come with takeout Chinese food? Wonder no more. Chopsticks make great paint stirrers if you have small cans of paint. Don’t pull the chopsticks apart, and they will work great to mix your paint. Heloise, thanks for the helpful hints.

Marla S., Seal Beach, Calif.

Hi, Marla. I use the chopsticks for my potted plants to aerate the soil.

Hugs, Heloise

Dear Heloise: I created a folder I have saved to my desktop on my computer, which I update every time I finish a book. Then, when I go shopping for more books, I print a copy and take it with me to prevent buying a book I have already enjoyed.

Conrad, via email

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

2015 King Features Syndicate