Now Here's A Tip

By JoAnn Derson

+ "I hang two mesh laundry bags on the back of the bathroom door. Bras and undergarments go into one, socks into the other. I toss them in the wash just as they are, and no sorting is required after they are done." - D.C. in Mississippi

+ M.J. in Washington writes: "Please explain your statement about 'never clean the toilet with any cleaner containing ammonia.' Why?"

Sorry for the confusion, M.J. The comment was the result of a great tip from B.H., who suggested stashing a little bit of bleach in the toilet-brush holder to keep it spanking clean between uses. Since ammonia should never be mixed with bleach (toxic gases could be released and could hurt you), it's a good idea for anyone using B.H.'s tip to steer clear of ammonia-based cleaners while using the bleachy brush. Otherwise, ammonia cleaners are just fine. Thanks for the opportunity to clear this up!

+ When you are drying towels or jeans, stick a dry towel in the load. It will make the whole load dry faster.

+ "I keep my nice polished silver out from Thanksgiving to Easter, but when that's over, I clean it up and store it in ziplock baggies. I barely have to polish when Thanksgiving rolls around again." - Y.L. in Nevada

+ Here's something to think about: According to one study, there is more bacteria on your computer keyboard than on your toilet seat. Ewww. Combat the yuckies by wiping down your keyboard at least once a week using a cloth spritzed with window cleaner. Never spray the keyboard directly. Every few months, use compressed air (from an officesupply store) to get trapped dirt and crumbs from under the keys.

+ Love the convenience of snack-size stuff or those ubiquitous 100-calorie packs? Save money by purchasing a regularsize box and snack-size zip-lock baggies or containers.

Send your tips to Now Here's a Tip, c/o King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL32853- 6475 or e-mail JoAnn at letters. kfws@hearstsc.com.

(c) 2007 King Features Synd., Inc.