It gets me pretty excited when a fabulous blog like Apartment Therapy joins in on the back-to-school fun. Thanks to this article (via Apartment Therapy) I found Heloise, who started writing lifestyle tips back in 1977. Just in time for all the college preparations, Heloise has offered a load of advice for freshman and seniors alike. Here are some tips featured in the article "Heloise on Laundry And More in Dorms" from The Washington Post:
"Overstuffing the washing machine is a common mistake. Pack the machine loosely and remember not to use more detergent than recommended on the packaging. If you overstuff a dryer, your clothes will take longer to dry and come out very wrinkled."
"Don't lug a huge box or jug of detergent to the laundry room. It's too bulky and heavy to carry with your bag of dirty clothes. Instead, measure what you need into small plastic bags or yogurt cups."
"Use dryer sheets sparingly and never with towels. (They can coat the fibers and reduce fluffiness.) Don't add a sheet in the middle of a heat cycle because it can leave greaselike spots on clothing. Dryer sheets are good to stuff in smelly shoes, gym bags, drawers and closets."
"Turn the computer keyboard upside down and shake it every once in a while to get crumbs out. It will work better."
"If you go out to eat, ask for takeout containers so you can make another meal out of leftovers."
"Every once in a while, clean the lounge microwave by heating a large bowl of water with slices of lemon or orange for a minute or two."
And here are some more tips from the "Hints" section of Heloise's website:
Bug-Free Room
• Put a couple of drops of lavender or peppermint essential oil on a cool light bulb to help repel bugs.
• Place several drops of oil of lavender or peppermint on a cotton ball or two. Put them into a small jar or margarine container. Poke a few holes in the lid and cover. Put around the room.
Air Fresheners. Put several drops of peppermint or cinnamon on cotton balls and place in a margarine container or small jar. Poke holes into the lid and put in an out-of-the-way area behind furniture or in a guest room or bathroom and your guests won’t have a clue.
Scented Lightbulbs. Dab a bit of oil of clove, peppermint or eucalyptus on a cool lightbulb. When you turn on the light, the scent will drift throughout the room.
Cellphone Lands in the Toilet, Bathtub or Sink
If you act fast, you may be able to save the phone. Pull the battery out ASAP. Then dry the inside of the phone with a hair dryer. Put the battery back in to see if it works. You probably will have to get a new battery. Take the phone to a service center to check it out.
Cleaning CDs or DVDs
Data is embedded in the discs, so clean carefully by wiping with a soft cloth—from the center to the edge. Do not clean in a circular motion because that might damage the data.
Burnt Popcorn Smell in the Microwave
To get rid of this awful lingering stink, fill as large microwave-safe bowl with one cup of water and sprinkle your favorite spice like cinnamon or add several drops of vanilla or lemon extract. Bring to a boil. You must let it sit inside for 10 to 15 minutes to cool down. Simply wipe the walls down with paper towels. Leave the door open to further air it out.
Swell tips, huh? For more advice from savvy Heloise... visit Heloise.com. There is so much to learn!
Amore.
