DEAR READERS: Are you thinking about going on a cruise? Here are some Heloise hints for smooth sailing:
• Book early, about three to six months ahead. Not only will you get the best choice of cabins, but many cruise lines offer discounts to those who book early, so don't be shy about asking for discounts.
• Research the type of cruises available. Some have a party-all-the-time schedule, while others are designed for those who'd rather relax on deck with a good book.
• Book the best cabin you can afford. Believe it or not, you'll be there more than you had expected.
• The last night of the cruise is the time to tip those who were helpful to you. While it's entirely up to you whether you tip and how much, it's always nice to say "thank you" with a monetary gift.
DEAR READERS:
• A jellyfish is 95 percent water.
• It is the male sea horses who give birth to live young.
• Many years ago, sailors wore gold earrings to be sure they were given a decent burial. The earrings were used as payment for the coffin and service.
DEAR HELOISE: I had a terrible time trying to remove old wallpaper, until I came across this method: I put really hot water in a spray bottle with about half a cup of fabric softener, then shake well to mix the two ingredients. Spray the wallpaper generously, wait about 20 minutes, then peel off the wallpaper. It comes off very easily with this method.
-- A. and L.,
Great Falls, Mont.
DEAR HELOISE: My dad always washed our white wicker furniture on the patio using a bucket of warm water and about half a cup of table salt. This helped keep it from turning yellow. He would occasionally wipe down the wicker with furniture polish that contained natural oil. Our wicker lasted for several years with this type of care.
-- Julia B., Conover, N.C.
DEAR HELOISE: Here are a couple of hints to keep towels from fading too quickly in the wash:
The first time you wash new towels, add 1/2 cup of salt and 1/2 cup of baking soda to the water. It's best to dry the towels on medium heat; high heat can damage fabrics.
-- Alice B.,
Stone Mountain, Ga.
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
MovieStyle on 04/21/2017