Now Here’s a Tip: Simple, smart sanity savers

“I like a half a grapefruit every morning, and to keep the second half fresh until the following day, I place it cut side down on a coffee can lid and keep it in the refrigerator. I don’t even need to wrap it. It stays nice and juicy. — T.I. in Kansas

“If you are using a power drill when working in a small, dark space — like a cabinet — it’s easy to shed a little light on your project. Use a heavy-duty rubber band to strap a small flashlight directly to your drill, with the bulb end pointing toward the drill bit. Switch it on and you will be able to see exactly what you are doing — and you will have your extra hand free!

“To fill my salt and pepper shakers, I clip the corner of an envelope into a triangle, then cut the tip off. The result is a perfectly lovely funnel that can be used and trashed. — T.M.U. in New York

“When storing plates, use Styrofoam picnic plates in between the plates as a buffer. Paper works OK, too, but the Styrofoam ones are better. While you are at it, secure the lids to small servingware (butter dishes, creamers, teapots, etc.) with dental floss or string before storing. If they are bumped, they will be less likely to chip if the lid is secure. — L.O. in Minnesota

“What to do about chewing gum stuck in the carpet? First, pick off as much as will come up easily. Lay ice cubes on whatever is left to freeze it. Chip the remaining pieces off and repeat the icing if necessary. After you have gotten most of it off, trim the carpet of any sticky bits (there shouldn’t be much left).