Hints from Heloise: A handy use for hand cleaner

Dear Heloise: Regarding the question on how to get grease out of a jacket, try using hand cleaner and a nailbrush to scrub the stain. This works on all kinds of stains on clothes.

Rinse out the jacket and let it air-dry to see if the stain disappears, as you don't want to dry it through a machine again to set the stain even more.

- Carla, in Montana

Carla, I've not tried this method, but I will the next time that I have a grease stain. Thanks for writing in!

-Heloise

ANOTHER GREASE REMOVAL tip

Dear Heloise: When my son was 6, we came home from a function to which he'd worn white pants that I'd made from a polyester blend material. Our street had just been repaved.

Before changing, he sat on the edge of the street to play. The tar from the street ruined his pants - or so I thought.

My mom took them from the trash, turned them inside out, grabbed all-vegetable shortening and a spoon, and worked this into the pants. She then made a paste of detergent and did the same. He wore the pants until he outgrew them! She said to always work from the backside of a stain so that you don't rub it deeper into the fabric.

- Pattie S., in Huntsville, Alabama

CLEANING ANTIQUES

Dear Heloise: My grandmother raised me from the time I was 8 years old, and I always loved and admired her. She had a home that was filled to the brim with antiques, which I plan to keep and maintain. My only problem is that I was at school when she did her housework, so I never saw how she cleaned things.

I have old china, a grandfather clock, some brass items, and a few wooden pieces such as dressers, tables and chairs. How should I take care of these things?

- Daniel B., in Virginia

Daniel, here's a list for you, but I also recommend looking for a book regarding the care of antiques as well:

Leave coins in "as is" condition. Patina adds to their value.

Don't place the grandfather clock in direct sunlight or near a heat source. Old clocks should be cleaned and oiled every five years.

Mildew on old wooden furniture can be cleaned by wiping the furniture with a damp, soft cloth that's been dipped in a 1/2 cup of water, mixed with a 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Dry off the furniture afterward.

Don't polish antique bronze. It destroys the value of the item. Wash ceramics with a mild soap and water, along with a soft cloth.

-Heloise