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Show It Makes Cents BY VI JUDGE Dear Readers: Since much waste results when products in aerosol cans are improperly used, it's important to carefully follow the instructions on the can. Usually you will be told to hold the can at a 45 degree angle and to shake it thoroughly before use so that you get a uniform emulsion and the propellent can force out the product. Otherwise, you will end up with about a half can full of product that you can't get out and use. Another tip from a manufacturer: When using a specific cleaner on copper, aluminum or stainless steel, always wet the item first. The cleaner simply rolls off and is wasted otherwise. All items in a washing cycle need to circulate freely, so don't overload and don't add more detergent to compensate for a too-heavy load. Unless you are in a hard-water area, you should follow the recommendations on the detergent package. Remember: for a bright wash and a long-lived machine, don't overload and don't over-use detergent. Now let's talk about tighter economy concerning these matters: Most products in aerosol cans are not economical to use. Don't buy them unless you find the convenience greater than the higher cost. Avoid waste by carefully measuring detergent and other cleaning agents. Instead of buying a special cleaner for copper, use reliable, inexpensive vinegar and salt. Dear Vi: The fabric layer of my shower curtain got threadbare, but the vinyl lining was still good, so instead of buying a new ensemble, I replaced the worn part with an ordinary window panel. The regular size (60" x 81") was just right, and I saved almost $11.00. Brenda Parrish, Riverside, Calif Dear Vi: Intead of our usual trial and error method, and because we did not want to make unneeded holes in our new walls, we got smart and prearranged our wall grouping on a sheet of heavy paper the proper size. When we were salisifed with the arrangement, we traced the outline of each item, numbered the spots, poked holes in the paper where each hanger was to go, and as we removed them, numbered, each item to correspond. With this paper pattern taped in place on the wall, we could make our marks through the small holes and thus know exactly where to hang each item. Bob and Sue, Payson, Ut. Dear Vi: Did you know you can recycle adding machine tape? We never tear the paper off after we've used the machine. Instead, we roll the used paper up and secure it with a paper clip. Then, when we come to the end of a roll, we just turn the paper over and run it through again. LuAnne Warner, Las Vegas Good thinking on both counts, LuAnne. I'm proud of you. |