Wash away 'sock monster' frustrations

Has the “sock monster” eaten another one of your socks, leaving behind one surviving sock and the frustration of wondering what to do?

Probably what has happened was one of your socks slipped over the edge of the washer or dryer basket, becoming lodged and forever lost.

Sometimes, however, they will find their way into the drain or septic system.

To prevent it from happening, pin the two socks together with a safety pin while going through the washing and drying process.

For those of you who are stuck with one sock, don’t throw it away. Here are a few suggestions that you may find useful.

1. Use your old sock for a cold drink holder by slipping the canned beverage into the sock. Fold back the excessive material and your hands will stay dry and your can will be insulated while you enjoy the drink.

2. Use the sock to wipe off foggy mirrors and windows in your car.

3. The old sock works well for wiping off your dipstick when checking the oil in your car.

4. Slip it over your hand when you are pumping car into your car. That way your hand won’t smell like gas.

5. Use it as a hand mitten to wash your car, especially the wheels. A sock on both hand works great.

6. Use it as a damp dusting mitten.

7. Use it to wash dishes.

8. Old socks made great pocket puppets — just draw some eyes and a mouth. Small kids just love them.

9. They make wonderful pocket calculator covers. Just cut the sock in half and sew the bottom. Slip in the calculator.

If you would like to share a cleaning idea or concept with the reading audience, call Ed at NWES (255-2266), e-mail him at madan@surf1.ws or send them to the Bonner County DailyBee, 310 Church St., Sandpoint, ID, 83864; Attn.: What Would Ed Do? For more information about Ed, check him out online at www.NWEES.com.

Copy written by Ed Madan, certified forensic, fire, flood, mold inspection and remediation contractor. Ed is the president/CEO or Northwest Environmntal Services, Inc.