Super time-savers

Wed., May 24, 2006

Joann Derson King Features Syndicate

“”Too much fat floating on your soup? After your soup is done, let it stand for a few minutes. Then take a clean napkin or a piece of paper towel and simply lay it on top of the soup. Presto! The grease goes to the paper. Take a fork, lift the paper off and discard.” — A.R. in California

“To remove hard water stains and mineral deposits on your shower head, fill a zip-lock baggie halfway with warm vinegar. Immerse the showerhead in the baggie and secure it to the pipe with a rubber band. Let it hang for an hour or so, then release the bag and scrub the showerhead with a soft toothbrush.

“”If you need to work on your bathroom fixtures and are going to be using a pipe wrench, make sure you wrap the fixture first to avoid scratches. I like using masking tape, as it comes off easily and helps with the grip.” — C.C. in Kansas

“Here’s a great idea for picnics: “Use a short piece of garden hose that is slit down one side as a guard for sharp knives you take along in your picnic basket. No one will reach in and accidentally get a cut.” — L.J. in North Carolina

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