Refusing plasticware
HINTS FROM HELOISE
HELOISE
Dear Heloise: We pick up food or order in quite a bit. After accumulating and tossing out more of the individually wrapped plasticware than I could ever use, I now make it a point to let the restaurant know not to include them. This isn't always an option when using some delivery sites; however, I refuse unnecessary plasticware whenever possible. Hopefully, sites will start to ask and only include them when requested. — Olivia V., via email
Downsize bottles
Dear Heloise: Half empty milk or juice containers take up more space than they're worth. Keep a few clean jars on hand and pour the last bit of liquid into one. Then toss out the bulky container and free up your shelf space instantly. The jars seal well, stack neatly, and make quick fridge cleanouts easier before grocery day. — Mary S., via email
No need to mark plug
Dear Heloise: Susu, in Houston, wrote about marking plugs on home electronics to tell which side was up. A USB plug has the logo embossed on the side that goes up, so there's no need to mark it. I read your column every day in the Sioux City Journal. — Dave L.H., via email
Strawberry prep
Dear Heloise: After years of getting strawberries ready for shortcake, I had a revelation. I was taking the stems off the usual way — and yes, I have the little gadget that picks them off — but I didn't find that it worked any better than a small knife until now. I bunched the stem in one hand and sliced the berry until I reached the stem, and voila! Instead of two steps, now it's only one. It's never too late to teach us old cooks new tricks. Thank you for your daily column. — Susan C., in California
Easier cleanup
Dear Heloise: I absolutely love to cook and bake but dread the cleanup. I've found that putting away ingredients as I use them and having warm soapy water available for dirty bowls, dishes and utensils lessens the cleanup time. It's much easier to deal with. — Mary G., in Kent, Connecticut
Mary, cleaning as you go is what I've done for years, just as my mother taught me. After a party, a large dinner, or a day of baking, the kitchen can get very messy! Cleaning as you go is a good way to avoid feeling letdown when guests have gone and a messy kitchen remains. — Heloise
Grocery bag holder
Dear Heloise: To manage overflowing plastic bags, I use adhesive strips to fasten an empty tissue box to the inside of a cabinet door; bags go in the top and come out the bottom. A tall plastic container also works well.
To reduce plastic use, keep reusable bags in your car. I hang them on a hook by the front door immediately after unpacking groceries, making it easy to grab them for my next trip. — Diane F., in Fresno, California
Send a money-saving or time-saving hint to Heloise@ Heloise.com.
