In this week's article, I thought I would share with you, the reading audience, a few tips that my family uses on a regular basis.

1. Flies at family picnics are always a problem. I've found that if you spray table surfaces with undiluted white vinegar and let dry, flies will disappear. They hate vinegar.

2. Summer fun always has a bunch of cuts and scrapes. Bandages can be removed without the "ouch" by spraying a little baby oil to the surface of the bandage. It will pull off without pain.

3. When buying new school shoes, always place your little finger between the heel and the back of the shoe before buying them. This space will allow the child's feet to expand during the day's activities and not create sores from pinching or binding.

4. Before storing your clothes for the winter, wash them first. During the rinse cycle, pour in one cup of vinegar. The vinegar will rinse out fabric softeners that we use to soften our clothes. If clothes are stored for long periods of time without washing out the fabric softener first, they will develop grease spots from the softener, which will attract insects that will feed on the fibers of the cloth.

If you are allergic to any of the above products, please don't use them. Always test fabrics and paints before using any chemical compound. Please remember to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands and eye protection for your eyes.If you would like to share a cleaning idea or concept with the reading audience, call Ed Madan at Northwest Environmental Services (255-2266) or send them to Bonner County Daily Bee, 310 Church St., Sandpoint, ID 83864, Attn: What Would Ed Do?

Copy written by Edmond E. Madan, certified executive housekeeper and certified fire, water and mold inspection and remediation contractor. Ed is chief executive officer of Northwest Environmental Services, which specializes in commercial, residential construction, and crime scene cleanup.