By Reena Nerbas
Thermos in the Dishwasher
Dear Reena,
I recently purchased a stainless-steel thermos with foil wrapped around the exterior. Although the instructions say, “dishwasher safe” the foil peeled after four washes. Now, the foil is half gone and looks unappealing (pardon the pun). Should I toss the thermos or is there a remedy to fix it? Len
Dear Len,
Since the foil on the thermos peeled due to the heat of the dishwasher water. You have two options: Either contact the manufacturer and inquire about a refund. Or continue similar steps to peel the remaining foil. Put the thermos into a stainless-steel pot, and fill it with enough water to cover the thermos. Bring the water to a boil for at least 5 mins. Use tongs to remove the thermos, and gently scrub the remaining foil off with a non-scratch abrasive pad. Your thermos will be stainless steel in color, and ready to use.
Yellowing Linoleum
Dear Reena,
We bought a newer house and found that upon washing the kitchen floor the linoleum has a yellow stain/tinge to it around the sink area mainly. The color is supposed to be white. I tried a couple of cleaners, but have not had success in brightening the color. Is there something I can use to help this issue? Thank-you, Janette
Dear Janette,
It sounds as though the previous owner kept a mat at the sink area. The sulfur used in manufacturing the mat, has left you with a yellow stain which is often permanent. With so many vinyl and linoleum products on the market, what works on one does not necessarily work on another. If your floor were over 50 years old it would most likely be linoleum. Since your home is newer, the floor is probably vinyl. Many people have found pouring 3% hydrogen peroxide onto the floor every day for three days is helpful. Other people have great success by combining one quarter cup OxiClean with 1-gallon hot water and pouring the solution onto the area. Another solution is bleach, but most people suggest that this application removes the floor’s finish and shine. Lastly, mineral spirits are another treatment that people have told me worked for them. It is a shame that so many floors tend to yellow and discolor, most often from a rubber backed rug or some other weight being left on one specific area.
Frozen Peach Hint
Dear Reena,
I just discovered a method for freezing peaches, and it is a wonderful time and mess saver. This works the same way as freezing whole tomatoes and it is so easy! Just freeze the whole peach, with skin and all, and when it is time to use it, run it under hot water and the skin slips off. You are left with a beautiful ripe peach with no discoloration. I’m doing all 25 lbs. this way. Val
Let the Flowers Bloom into Spring!
- Before purchasing flowers for someone special; keep in mind that typically, the more fragrant a flower is, the shorter it will live.
- If you ever decide to make yourself a necklace using fresh flowers, be sure not to wear the flowers directly against your skin. Hang them slightly off of your shoulders because your neck sweats and will decrease the life of a flower necklace.
Did you know? In Hawaii, a woman wearing a flower on the right side of her head signifies that she is available (much like the North American wedding ring). A flower on the left signifies that she is single and a flower on the top center of her head means she is taken but still looking.
Note: Every user assumes all risks of injury or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first.
Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website: reena.ca. Ask a question or share a tip at reena.ca