Hints From Heloise

Dear Heloise: My mother bought my kids a bunch of the big sidewalk chalk. The kids had a great time with the chalk, but, unfortunately, I am left with chalk-stained clothing.

What is the best way to deal with these stains? I hope it’s easy, as I will probably have a lot of the stains because the kids love the chalk! - JoAnne Glaser, San Antonio

Here’s how to remove chalk stains from washable clothing, according to a leading manufacturer of the colored chalk.

Place the stained area of the clothing (face down) on white paper towels and blot with some rubbing alcohol. Next, wash the clothing in the hottest water safe for fabric, using your favorite brand of laundry detergent and bleach for colored clothing. Rinse and check to be sure the stain is gone before putting the clothing in the dryer. If the stain remains repeat the above process. - Heloise Send your money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, PO Box 795000, San Antonio TX 78279-5000.