Heloise

Dear Readers: Plastic containers are so useful for storing everything in a refrigerator, but they can retain a smell.

To get rid of it, fill the containers with half household vinegar and half water. Soak overnight. Then, rinse well with hot, soapy water and air-dry.

Store containers with the lids off to prevent a musty smell from occurring. — Heloise

HOMEMADE HONEY FACIALS

Dear Readers: You can make your own beauty products that can be effective, such as with honey. First, clean and steam your face. Apply honey over it and leave this on for 2 to 3 minutes. Then remove with a warm, wet washcloth. Honey facials work great and clean out pores. — Heloise

PAN GREASING MADE EASY

Dear Heloise: I’ve found a less messy way to grease cookie sheets and pans. Place a quart-size storage bag over your hand and scoop up your desired amount of shortening. Apply to surface that will be used for baking. When finished, remove the bag and discard. No more messy cleanup or greasy hands!

Thanks for considering this tip for publication. I read your column every day! — Linda Whitenton, via email

CLEANING MINI BLINDS

Dear Readers: Try these low-tech ways to get rid of dust on mini blinds in your house. Buy and use a new 2-inch paintbrush to wipe the blinds clean. Or, put clean socks on your hand to wipe off the dust. You could also grab a microfiber cloth. — Heloise

ADDING FLAVOR TO FOOD

Dear Heloise: I like to look for low-salt ways to add flavor to foods. I cannot use most bouillon, as well as soups, sauces, flavorings, etc. All have sodium that causes headaches and stomach upset for me. I am constantly searching for ways to avoid this problem. Maybe some of your other readers have suggestions?

If you have this problem or think you do, it’s best to avoid most of these. — Mary Pittman, via email

PET PAL

Dear Heloise: Here’s an adorable Sheltie named Cuan (pronounced “Coo’an”). — Robert & Marilyn Shanahan, Papillion, Nebraska

Readers, to see Cuan and our other Pet Pals, go to Heloise.com and click on “Pet of the Week.”

Do you have a furry friend to share with our readers? Send a photo and a brief description to Heloise@Heloise.com. — Heloise

Send a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001, or you can fax it to 1-210-HELOISE or email it to Heloise@Heloise.com. I can’t answer your letter personally but will use the best hints received in my column.