DEAR HELOISE: I just bought a high-efficiency (HE), low-water washing machine. The instructions state to use only HE detergents. My issue is that I want to wash delicates, including silks and woolens, for which I always used a mild soap. But the instructions state: "Using regular detergent will likely result in longer cycle times and reduced rinsing performance. It may also result in component failures and noticeable mold and mildew." What do you recommend?
-- Richard L. in New Jersey
DEAR READER: My mantra? Follow the instructions first. The HE machine does not have an agitator. So delicate items can be washed, and there is no worry about items being damaged. Think of it as hand-washing, without your hands.
However, you should use the recommended HE detergent, just a very small amount (especially if it is a small load). Because HE machines use less water, they use much less "soap." Using regular detergent can cause too many suds, which, over time, may lead to problems.
DEAR HELOISE: My daughter lives across town, and she and her husband work full time. Sometimes they call on Sunday and say that a grandchild is sick and I need to go be a nurse. I now keep a small bag packed and ready for travel!
-- Grandma in Tennessee
DEAR HELOISE: When I was ready for my 2-year-old son to "give up" his beloved blanket that he dragged everywhere, I devised a plan that would allow him to be the one to relinquish it.
Every week, I would cut off an inch on all four sides of the blanket. The beauty is that he never realized it was getting smaller. Once it was as small as a washcloth, he lost interest and stopped carrying it around. We don't have a keepsake, but we treasure the story and retell it often.
My son is now 22 years old and in the United States Marine Corps.
-- Judy in Virginia
DEAR HELOISE: There are many times when I have gone into a dressing room and could not figure out which rooms were occupied and which were empty. I place my shoes against the open bottom of the door so others can see that the stall is occupied.
-- Heather D. in Pennsylvania
DEAR READER: Heather, I hope someone does not turn into Dorothy of Oz and walk off with your shoes.
DEAR HELOISE: Having macular degeneration, I have a hard time reading recipes when I want to cook or bake. I have now printed, in extra-large print, my favorite, most-used recipes. I can have them on the counter next to what I am preparing instead of across the room under my magnified screen. It saves time and footsteps.
-- Barb S., via email
Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email
Weekend on 09/11/2014