Preventing water from boiling over
HINTS FROM HELOISE
HELOISE
Dear Heloise: Cook-ing pasta used to mean watching the pot closely to avoid spills, but placing a wooden spoon across the top of the pot helps to stop water from boiling over. The spoon breaks the surface bubbles before they can rise too high. I learned this after cleaning up one too many messy stovetops. Now I keep a spoon nearby every time I boil water. It doesn't replace keeping an eye on the pot, but it gives you a helpful buffer. — Angela K., in Sacramento, California
Keep bananas fresh
Dear Heloise: Bananas tend to ripen all at once, which can lead to waste. Wrapping the stems with plastic wrap slows down the release of ethylene gas, which helps delay ripening. Now they last a few extra days, which gives me time to enjoy them or use them in recipes.
Store bananas at room temperature and away from other fruits for the best results. It's a small step that helps stretch your grocery budget. — Nicole B., in Tampa, Florida
Washing machine sound-off
Dear Heloise: In response to Candace W., who said that she was having problems with white marks on her clothes after washing, you suggested that pods might've caused this. I've also heard this, but I have this exact problem and don't use pods.
I, too, use a minimum amount of liquid detergent and have to use a higher level of water and a second rinse. Still, all the dark clothes come out with white streaks! Very frustrating.
These newfangled washers that are supposed to "save" water by reducing the amount needed per load are a gimmick. I have two friends who complain about the same problem. We don't save water if we have to use a higher level than normal and a second rinse. This may be the problem if Candace has a water-saving machine. I'll take the older models that used to clean my clothes just great! — A reader, via email
Odor-free spoons
Dear Heloise: Wooden spoons can start to smell after repeated use, especially with strong foods like garlic or onions. Instead of tossing them out, give them a simple refresh by doing this:
Sprinkle baking soda directly onto the spoon, then rub it gently with half a lemon. The natural acidity helps break down odors, while the baking soda lifts stains. Rinse with warm water and let the spoon air-dry completely. I learned this after one too many batches of spaghetti sauce left my utensils smelling like a restaurant kitchen. Now I do this once a week, and my spoons stay clean and fresh.
Avoid soaking wooden tools in water since this can cause cracking over time. A quick scrub and proper drying make all the difference. — Carla M., in Reno, Nevada
Send a money-saving or time-saving hint to Heloise@ Heloise.com.
