Dear Readers: When you are doing home improvement projects, be certain to pick up everything when you are done. This includes nails, power tools and blades, staples, solvent, and paints. You should also do a second check just to be sure that nothing is left! — Heloise

CLEANING WITH AN OILED MASK

Dear Heloise: Here is a really good reason to wear a mask: There are a number of nasty jobs around the house that can be made a little less gross using a mask. Whether it’s emptying the garbage or cleaning the toilet, the list goes on! But, first, put a drop of your favorite essential oil on the inside of the mask before you put it on. Then go change that stinky litter box. It helps block the smell of that nasty, smelly, but very necessary job. — L.N., in Pennsylvania

WHERE DID MY TOOLS GO?

Dear Readers: To avoid the frustrating situation of not being able to find tools on your lawn or in your garage, do this:

Paint the handles of rakes, shovels, and gardening tools bright orange. You can also place dots or a stripe on other tools. You will be able to find them much more easily. — Heloise

LUNCH FOR FAMILIES IN THE HOSPITAL

Dear Heloise: My husband was in the hospital for nearly two weeks. I was with him most of the time. The hospital nurses were good, but short-staffed. It made for a long, stressful day. What I appreciated most were the friends who brought me lunch. Usually, we sat in the lobby to eat. The food was the least important part — it really helped to have someone to talk to for a bit.

Recently, a friend’s husband had an extended hospital stay, so my husband and I took her lunch. She talked for an hour and a half. It felt great to be able to do it for someone else.

So, instead of just calling the family member, offer to bring coffee, pastries or lunch as well as your ears to listen. — M., in Arkansas

HOMEMADE HONEY FACIALS

Dear Readers: Instead of buying expensive beauty products, you can make your own that can be just as effective and a lot cheaper. For example, after I clean and steam my face, I apply honey all over it and leave it on for 2-3 minutes. Then I take it off with a warm, wet washcloth. It works great and cleans out pores. — Heloise

GETTING THE CRUST JUST RIGHT

Dear Heloise: I love pies that call for a crumb crust, but I do not like graham crackers or vanilla wafers as a crust. So, I substitute them for crushed soda crackers or any type of cocktail crackers.

By the way, I read your column in the Houston Chronicle! — B.B., in Houston

TIRE SAFETY

Dear Readers: Always keep a spare tire and jack in the trunk of your car. Check your tires frequently to be sure that they are inflated properly. Teach all drivers of your vehicle(s) how to remove a flat tire and replace it with the spare in the case of an emergency. — Heloise

STORING MOWERS

Dear Readers: Here’s how to store mowers during the summer. After you have finished mowing, let the mower cool down completely and put it in a ventilated area, because the gas could become combustible. — Heloise

Send a money-saving or time-saving hint to Heloise@Heloise.com. I can’t answer your letter personally but will use the best hints received in my column.