Handy home tips

Sun., June 22, 2008

Joann Derson King Features Syndicate

• “For you hockey fans, take a clean puck and keep it in the freezer to break up the ice you have in a bag or container.” — S.H. in Ohio

• Relieve the itch of a bug bite by dabbing it with antiperspirant. The aluminum salts will reduce the swelling, and help to relieve the itch.

•To slow spoilage of container dairy items (sour cream, cottage cheese, cream cheese), store upside-down in the fridge — that is to say, lid side down. It will keep those items fresher longer.

• “Cut the fat on pizza just by using your napkin. When you get a slice of pizza, double a napkin or paper towel and lightly blot excess oil from the top of the pizza. Don’t press down too hard, or you’ll come away with cheese, but this is a good way to get that extra stuff off.” — T.R. in Minnesota

• “Birthday candles can be held in place with Lifesaver candies. They are the perfect size for your standard candles, and kids really like them. Also, for adults, they will catch any excess wax that drips. Especially if you have a lot of candles on your cake, like mine!” — U.D. in Tennessee

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