DEAR READERS: Today's Sound Off is about problem renters.
DEAR HELOISE: I own six rental properties, and they provide a little extra income for my wife and me. We maintain clean properties with only modern kitchens and bathrooms. We screen all renters, but still we get people who never clean their place, punch holes in the walls, paint walls garish colors, then move out and demand a return of their security and cleaning deposits. If they move out and leave us a mess to deal with, they're not getting a dime back. One renter moved in the dead of night, taking a refrigerator with her but leaving her pet iguana, which we gave to an animal sanctuary.
I've spoken to other landlords, and they have the same sorts of problems. So, renters, if you want your deposit back, leave the rental property clean and in good condition.
-- Disgusted Landlord
in Houston
DEAR READERS: Here are some uses for paper plates:
• Use as a spoon rest.
• Use under a pet's dish to catch pet food.
• Put in a microwave to catch drips. Replace as needed.
• Give to children to draw on or make masks out of.
DEAR HELOISE: Hardwood floors need a little TLC, and they'll look great for years to come. Here are a few hints:
• First, never slide furniture across the floor. Pick it up, if you can, or use plastic sliders.
• Use rugs on your floor, especially in front of doors that lead into the house.
• Try to not wear high heels too often, as they might dent the floor.
• Keep your floors clean. Dirt over time wears down the finish and beauty of hardwoods.
-- Robert K. in Cleveland
DEAR READERS: Many people have flat-screen TVs but don't know the proper way to clean them. Here are some suggestions from the experts:
• Turn off and unplug the TV before you start cleaning.
• Always follow the manufacturer's warranty guidelines.
• Use a microfiber cloth to dust the screen. That might be all you need to do, but if smudges remain, use a damp (not wet) microfiber cloth to wipe the smudge.
• Never spray liquid on the screen, never use paper towels or abrasive materials, and never use alcohol or ammonia cleaning products. They remove the anti-glare protective covering on the screen.
Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email
ActiveStyle on 10/22/2018