Household & Cleaning

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1/2 cup each of water and distilled white vinegar. Microwave the mixture for about 5 minutes, or until it boils. Leave the bowl in the microwave until it has cooled enough to handle. Wipe down the inside of the microwave with a sponge. The solution makes its easier to wipe

To remove hard water spots from dishes and glasses, try soaking them in a solution of water and vinegar. Let them soak for a few hours, then wash as you normally would. You can also try adding a little vinegar to your dishwasher cycle to help avoid the spots from occurring.

If your shoes are emitting an unpleasant odor, try stuffing newspaper in them. The paper absorbs the odor and perspiration and keeps shoes in shape.

Don’t despair if your steam iron doesn’t steam. Quite often, mineral deposits in the water clog the vents, and a simple treatment can solve the problem. Fill the water reservoir with white vinegar. Heat the iron and set it on a cake or broiler rack while it steams a few minutes. Unplug and stand the

Stack clothes vertically in drawers so you can see them all at once.

To prevent hair clogs, place a piece of steel wool in the drain.

To sweep up stubborn dirt, spray your broom’s bristles with furniture polish.