Now here’s a tip

Sun., Jan. 13, 2008

Joann Derson King Features Syndicate

•”Did you know you can use Alka-Seltzer tablets to clean jewelry? I used one to clean a ring and bracelet that hadn’t been worn for years, and they look brand-new now. Hope this works for others as well.” — A Reader, in Pennsylvania

•Have allergy troubles? One thing you can do is to wash your sheets in hot water.

•”If you are looking for a neat and cheap way to store electrical cords that attach to kitchen appliances, use toilet-paper rolls. Just fold the cord over several times, and slide it into the roll. If it’s a detachable cord, you can write on the roll what appliance it goes to and just stick it inside the appliance. Or, secure the roll to the appliance with a large rubber band, like the ones that come off of a stalk of broccoli.”— O.R. in California

•To keep a candle burning longer and more evenly, pop it in the freezer for a few hours before burning.

• Recipe Substitutions: To make 1 cup of cream, use 3/4 cup milk and 1/2 cup butter.

• Add an emergency contact to your cell phone today. List your emergency contact under “A-Emergency” so that it comes first in your address book. (Thanks, K.P. of New York.) Also list it under “ICE” for In Case of Emergency, which in some areas is where emergency personnel will look first.

• Here’s a healthy reminder for 2008: Find a family activity that everyone can share in. Even novice exercisers can walk together, and you don’t have to know the rules in order to enjoy a brisk game of tennis or kickball.

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