Heloise

Dear Heloise: I spent hours crocheting edges on my guest towels, but visitors never used them. They noticed the towels, hesitated, and dried their hands elsewhere. To solve this, I wrote a short poem and placed it in clear view: “You are a guest, and we’re happy you’re here. These towels are for you, so please be dear. Use them freely when you enter here. They’re out for you, so have no fear.” The poem reassured guests; they smiled, felt welcome, and used the towels. The main lesson: A thoughtful sign puts guests at ease. — Maria S., in Perrysburg, New York

STUBBORN RUG DEBRIS

Dear Heloise: If you’re struggling to clean sculpted indoor/outdoor rugs, here’s my advice: Use a soft brush, such as an old hairbrush, to loosen crumbs and dirt trapped in the patterns before vacuuming. Loosening the dirt with a brush makes your vacuum much more effective.

Also, regularly empty your vacuum’s bin or bag to maintain its efficiency. You don’t need fancy tools — just a simple brush that makes cleaning textured rugs much easier. — A Reader, via email

DOUBLE-DUTY FROZEN BOTTLES

Dear Heloise: I freeze recyclable plastic water bottles for use as ice packs. They keep drinks cold in coolers during beach trips without leaving a watery mess. By day’s end, the melted ice provides cold, refreshing water. You can also soothe sunburns or sore spots by wrapping a frozen bottle in a cloth to provide comfort.

This trick saves money, reduces waste, and is more useful than expected. Just recycle the bottles when they wear out. I love reading your hints in the Los Angeles Daily News. Thanks, Heloise! — Andre F., in Malibu, California

MAKE REFRIGERATOR CLEANUP LESS MISERABLE

Dear Heloise: Cleaning the refrigerator used to feel like an all-day project, so I started tackling it in smaller steps instead. First, I pull out anything that is expired or questionable and toss it out right away. Then I wash shelves, drawers and bins by hand with hot, soapy water, following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control.

I’ve found that it’s much easier to wipe down one section at a time when the fridge isn’t packed full. One habit that really helps is placing leftovers and jars on shallow trays. If something leaks, I only have to wash the tray — not the entire shelf. I also keep a box of baking soda in the back to help control odors.

Every few days, I do a quick check for spills or food that’s gone bad. Staying on top of it this way keeps everything fresher, reduces waste, and saves me from the dreaded deep-clean marathons. It took me years to figure this out! — Muriel, in Colorado

PET PAL

Dear Heloise: When Button decided to encroach on Otis’ bed, serious morning discussions were had. — Marsha Pillers, via email

Readers, to see Button and Otis, as well as our other Pet Pals, go to Heloise.com and click on “Pet of the Week.”

Do you have a furry friend to share with our readers? Send a photo and a brief description to Heloise@Heloise.com. — Heloise

Send a money-saving or time-saving hint to Heloise@Heloise.com. I can’t answer your letter personally but will use the best hints received in my column.