Making a Fabric Freshener?
I mix water in a spray bottle with liquid fabric softener (1-3 tablespoons, depending on the size of the bottle). It works as a fabric freshener and wrinkle-release spray.
Kitten is Nursing on Me?
This is common. One of my cats used to do the same thing when he was a kitten, but he would suck on my t-shirt, especially at night after going to bed. I designated a special t-shirt for him, which I kept in the bed. Eventually he started going directly to...
Computer Isn't Doing Updates?
Im not trying to freak you out, but if you have tried the previous suggestions and still cant get updates to load, you may have a nasty virus that is going around. We had the same problem, and it took several days worth of emails back and forth with MS support...
Frugal Tissue Dispenser
This is an especially helpful idea for teachers who work with lower-income children. For many families, having to provide supplies such as tissue can mean less money for groceries. And there is nothing more embarrassing than having to tell your teacher that...
Mr. Spugsley (Cairn Terrier/Chihuahua Mix)
What a cutie! He looks similar to my Lily, who is a long-hair chihuahua mix (we believe mixed with some kind of terrier). Does he have more of the terrier personality, or the chihuahua personality?
Uses for a CD Stand?
The wire-style stands make GREAT earring holders. In fact, I sell jewelry and use them for sales displays. Depending on the design, you can also use them to sort and organize mail and bills.
Saving Money on Toiletries
Another way to save is to find other uses for products that you try and dont like... for example, if you try a new shampoo and find it doesnt work well for your hair, use it as body wash or hand soap. Conditioner is excellent for shaving your legs and underarms...
Deducting Your Cellphone Bill on Your Taxes?
When I was working as a tax preparer last season this was a fuzzy area. Im not sure if the regulations have changed or become more clearly defined this year, but basically if you incur expenses over and above what you would already pay for your personal cell...
Tame Conditioning Rinse?
I dont understand why you are afraid to use it. You said the bottle looks like new... why not open it, give it a try, an if the product is old, ask for a refund.
Using Carpet Padding as Insulation?
My husband and I used to own a home construction business. I can tell you that this would not be a good idea, because the weight of the padding would compact the existing insulation, which would prevent it from capturing and retaining air. There is, unfortunately...
Getting Rid of Static in Sheets?
Use an empty spray bottle and fill with water and about a tablespoon or so (depending on the size of the bottle) of liquid fabric softener. Lightly spray sheets. This mixture also works as a de-wrinkling spray.
Using Dentures for Dish Detergent
I also use denture tablets to clean jewelry. They work well also for cleaning electric toothbrushes.
Selling Homemade Greeting Cards?
An easy (and inexpensive) way to sell online is through Etsy.com. You pay a small listing fee (.20) and then a small percentage of the sale price after an item sells. You can accept credit cards through paypal (which charges, I believe, .30 per transaction...
Zote Soap?
Love it! I grate it and use it in my home-mixed laundry soap (Zote, washing soda, and borax). I also use it in water to wipe down wood work (like trim, molding, doors, and some furniture). And its CHEAP! I buy it at Save-a-Lot and Big Lots. Lori in Florida
Cleaning a 1930's Handmade Silk Wedding Dress?
Please, do not attempt to clean the dress. I worked in the Historical Museum field for 8 years. It may look or feel sturdy, but this can be misleading. The threads and fabric may be weakened, and any attempt to wash it can cause the dress to literally fall...
Doberman Has Itchy, Flaky Skin?
My husband has had Dobermans for most of his life, and offers the following suggestions: Dobermans should only be bathed once every three months. When you do bathe your dog, use a prescription-grade shampoo from your vet. Adding some olive oil to dry food will...
Ideas for School Children to Recycle their Paper?
If only one side of the paper has been used, the kids (and staff) can use the back for scratch paper. It could also be used for paper mache projects, or can be re-made into new paper (kids love that project, and the paper can be packaged and sold for a fundraiser...
Wrapping Paper for Sewing Patterns
Other ideas: glue paper to card stock to create holiday cards for next year; use paper for decoupage projects, like jars, boxes, etc., to put gifts in next year, or over plain ornament balls for ornaments with a hand-made flair.
Removing Pen from Civil War Era Paper?
PLEASE do not attempt to remove the ink. I worked for nearly 10 years in the museum industry, and I can tell you that you will only do more damage. If you feel the item has monetary value, contact your local museum and ask them if they can give you the name...
Male Cat Getting Friendly With Another Male Cat?
You need do nothing. This is normal behavior. Most male cats Ive had have done this, and the vet has said it is natural behavior. You may find it to be gross, but its part of nature.
Milk Crate Furniture
When I was in graduate school, I made a dresser out of crates. I took six crates, stacked three on three, with the opening facing out. Then, I draped a piece of cloth over the front, with an overlapping slit in the center. The cloth was held in place by a piece...
Do you have high speed or dial up internet service?
We recently switched from cable internet to DSL. The DSL costs about $25 less per month, and we notice little difference.
Preventing Hair Dye From Getting On Skin?
One method is to spread a thin layer of petroleum jelly around your hairline.
My Frugal Life - A Frugal Challenge - Up From Homelessness
Wow... you have much to be proud of. Many people in your situtation would have given up long ago. You are to be congratulated!
Mystery Shopping Advice?
I currently do shops for National Shopping Service, and they appear to be legit. No sign-up fees, and I have gotten paid. Its not much, but for free pizza and gas (those are the only two types of shops Ive gotten so far), its been worth it. good luck!
Building a House Tips?
Are you literally building the home yourself, or working with a contractor? The basic bottom line... get EVERYTHING in writing. Make NO oral contracts. And make sure that everyone you are working with is licensed and insured. Run a BBB search and ask questions...
Closet Smells Like Cat Litter?
Try spraying white vinegar on the carpeting, and close the door overnight. Next day, open to allow the vinegar to air out. I will likely remove at least some of the smell. good luck!
Cleaning a Textured Refrigerator?
I have one of those stream sprayers, and it works very well on textured appliances and painted walls.
Cat Wants to Sleep With Me At Night?
Given she is so young, she is likely too scared to be on her own at night. Though cats have the reputation of being loners, they still bond with each other and with their human companions. At this young age, she is probably missing her mom and siblings. Is...
Cat Wants to Sleep With Me At Night?
Glad to hear things are going better... she is SO adorable! I think by continually coaxing her each night, she will eventually fall into the pattern. I have a male cat who CONSTANTLY wanted to suck on my nightshirt. I started by giving him his own shirt to...
Two Dishwashers
Perhaps you should remind him that HIS two dishwashers work just as well as yours!! :-)
Extending the Life of Your Washing Machine
So, if vinegar is used in every rinse cycle as part of a home-made fabric sofenter, would it have the same result? Esp. if you also use home-made, non-sudsing soap?
Opinions About Mineral Makeup?
I echo everyones positive opinion of mineral makeup. A friend of mine who is an Esthetician recommends it, as well. I use Bare Esscentials and have had good luck. It does, indeed last a long time. Dittos on avoiding mica if you have older skin. I never use...
Repairing a Mirror?
While you are deciding whether or not to have it professionally restored, you can try a make-shift fix using aluminum foil. Simply lay the foil across the back of the mirror, shiney side facing the glass, or cut into small pieces to cover the bad spots. You...
More Life from Batteries
I have also heard that you can bake alkaline batteries in the oven at 200 degrees to revive them. Im not sure how long they should stay in, however.
The Wonders of Paperclips
Speaking of candles, you can use paper clips in making recycled candles. Take leftover wax from candles that have been burned down. Finely grate with a kitchen grater. Use the paperclip to anchor wick (available at any craft store) to the bottom of a small...
Gift from Groom: Necklace Before or After Wedding?
It might be nice for him to present it to her after all the stresses of the cermony and reception are over... maybe on the first night of their honeymoon? I think it could more memorable that way, and not got lost in all the confusion.
Keeping Facial Soap Case from Smelling Bad?
Try cutting off tiny single-use slices from the bar, and storing them in your soap case or baggie. That way, you wont be putting any wet soap back into the container. As long as the soap remains dry, you wont have bacteria build-up to cause odor.
What are "Fashion Earrings"?
Fashion earrings are basically costume jewelry (made from base metals, vs. sterling or gold). If you find that you have a sensitity to base metal, try putting a couple coats of clear nail polish on the posts or hooks.
Other Uses for Pot Holder Loom?
You can make a vareity of items by stitching the completed squares together...blankets, tote bags, table runners, rugs. Simply stich the squares together using heavy thread, or cloth rags cut into strips.
Reusing Old Clothing
You can also cut old clothing into thin strips, and use in knitting! They make great chair pads, pot holders, small rugs, hot pads, etc.
Craft Idea for Feminine Product Storage
I discovered that the yellow plastic canisters that Nestle Quick comes in, is the perfect size for storing tampons. The small containers work well for pantiliners.
Stretching Fresh Milk
We recently started using powdered milk, and secretly switched it for fresh without telling the kids. They did not notice the difference! Well probably keep it a secret for a few more weeks, and then let them know.
Uses for Paper Clips?
They are great for cleaning the dust bunnies from in-between keys on the computer keyboard.
The "No Buy" List
I make it a point to always pick up extra paper napkins when Im out to eat. I havent bought any in quite a long time... and they can stand it for paper towels, too, if the job isnt too messy.
Frugal Dog Toys?
Our doberman goes through dog toys like water. Any stuffed or soft toy, she rips apart within a half hour. The hard chew-proof toys? A joke. She destroys them in a day or two. My solution: I take old rags or wash cloths, cut them in half, fold in half, sew...
