LITTLE ROCK — DEAR HELOISE: What is the proper way to clean and wash men's neckties without damaging or spoiling the interfacing material that is inside the necktie?
- Shafeeq, via e-mail
DEAR READER: If the tie is made from silk or other delicate fabrics, your best bet is to have it professionally dry-cleaned. You probably won't be able to wash a tie without damaging the interfacing, but here are some hints to prolong the life of a necktie:
If you get a stain on your tie, blot thestain and let it dry. Water or club soda may leave a water mark, so use care.
Undo the knot before removing your tie. Sliding the knot (or leaving it in) can cause it to lose its shape.
Don't iron your tie on the front side! If you must press it, press on the reverse side.
When you get a new tie, spray it with a fabric protector to prevent future stains.
DEAR HELOISE: Take an old golf bag and use it to put your garden tools in, such as hoes, rakes, etc.
- Lillie in Alabama
DEAR READER: This is a wonderful green hint and an excellent way to recycle.Readers have written in the past saying that golf bags with wheels are great for the garden, garage or other places around the home, such as a poolroom, etc. Use pockets to store bug spray, weedkiller, rags or small hand trowels. Place a small square of plywood in the bottom of the main part to give it a solid base for items like shovels.
DEAR HELOISE: Here is a hint to keep potato chips fresh: Keep them in the freezer! Take out as many as you need when you want them. They are delicious. I also do this with marshmallows, taking out however many I want.
- Miriam Cook, Enola, Pa. Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or e-mail
Weekend, Pages 38 on 09/24/2009