DEAR HELOISE: Some time ago, you had a certain way to mix a sure cure to get rid of roaches using boric acid, I think. Please, I would like to read it again.
-- Richard C.,
Long Beach, Calif.
DEAR READER: Gather 8 ounces of powdered boric acid, 1/2 cup of flour, 1/8 cup of sugar, 1/2 of a small onion (chopped), 1/4 cup of shortening or bacon drippings and enough water to form a soft dough.
First, mix the boric acid, flour and onion. Next, cream the shortening and sugar, and add the flour mixture to this. Blend well and add enough water to form a soft dough.
Shape into small balls and put around the house where you have seen roaches. If you place a few in an open sandwich bag, they'll keep longer. Replace them when they dry out and become hard. Keep away from children and pets!
DEAR HELOISE: How do I get hairspray residue off a flat iron?
-- Ann in Alabama
DEAR READER: It's easy. You'll need to have a bottle of rubbing alcohol available. First, be sure to unplug the flat iron, then pour a generous amount of alcohol onto a cloth or dish towel and place it between the plates. Give it a chance to work for a few minutes, then rub the iron with the same cloth to remove the residue. If some of the residue remains, repeat, but this time use a sponge with a delicate scrubbing pad.
DEAR HELOISE: My nails have turned yellow, and I suspect it's from my nail polish. How can I get rid of the yellow stain?
-- Diana in Illinois
DEAR READER: A good first step is to always use a clear polish on your nails before applying colored polish. But, to remove the yellow stain, put your fingernails in a cut lemon half for a few moments. Be sure to moisturize your nails and hands afterward.
DEAR HELOISE: We recently installed terrazzo floors in our home. One morning, my young son got up early and drew on them with his crayons. How do I remove the marks?
-- Susan in Florida
DEAR READER: Would you believe a plain old pencil eraser will remove those marks? An eraser will also remove some heel marks.
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