Simple cleaning tips put an end to laundry complaints

This has been a very busy week for me. I apologize to the reading public for not being available when calling in with inquiries.

Christine called in and gave a great tip for storing products. She said that when storing items in your refrigerator, mark the date on the container with a magic marker (dry erase.) "When you use the item, simply wipe off the date from the container and clean the container."

Christine also suggested writing your grocery list as you use up the item on your refrigerator, using a dry erase marker. "After you go grocery shopping, simply clean the face of the refrigerator with ammonia and water and start over." Thanks, Christine.

Bev called in and asked how to clean brass items. Bev, I've found using a fresh lemon and salt works outstanding. Simply cut a fresh lemon in half, squeeze the lemon juice onto the surface of the brass, sprinkle table salt onto the brass surface and scrub with a clean rag. Once the surface is clean and shiny, rinse thoroughly with clean water. You will be surprised with the end result.

Janice called in and asked me how to get mud stains out of clothing. Janice, take a potato and cut it in half. Rub the cut side of the potato onto the stained surface. The starch in the potato will grab onto the mud and pull it out during the wash cycle.

Suzie called and wanted to know how to clean red wine out of a carpet. Suzie, the best thing I've found is to pour white wine over the red wine stain and then place a clean rag over the stained area and stand on it. You'll be surprised at how fast the stain comes out.

Note: There is a red wine stain remover sold at most area stores if you don't want to use white wine.

When cleaning with any cleaning product, always wear eye protection and rubber gloves to protect your hands. If you would like to share a cleaning idea of concept with the reading audience, call Ed at NWES at 255-2266 or e-mail them to madan@nwees.com or send them to Bonner County Daily Bee, Box 159, Sandpoint, ID 83864, Attn: What Would Ed Do?

For more information about Ed and his new handyman services, check him out at www.nwees.com.

Copy written by Edmond E. Madan, certified forensic, fire, flood, mold inspection and remediation/restoration contractor. Ed is the president of Northwest Environmental Services, Inc.