CLEANING HARD-TO-REACH AREAS

Dear Heloise: When cleaning small or hard-to-reach areas, I rely on a handheld vacuum with a brush attachment. Using the brush helps loosen dust, while the vacuum captures it so that it doesn't get stirred up and settle elsewhere. I use this method for baseboards, corners, shelves, and other nooks and crannies where dust tends to collect. It's also perfect for cleaning computer keyboards and laptop keys, where crumbs and dust can build up quickly.

- Brady Polk, in Gastonia, North Carolina

ACKNOWLEDGING GIFTS

Dear Heloise: I don't need a traditional thank-you note from everyone I send a gift to; I just like to know that the gift or card has actually reached them. These days, with mail delays and delivery problems, it's reassuring to get confirmation that something has arrived safely.

Because of this, I often send a quick text or email to the recipient to request an acknowledgment of receipt of the gift or card. It doesn't have to be formal or time-consuming. It really is the thought that counts, but sometimes we can't count on the delivery service to do its job correctly. A brief message provides peace of mind.

- Sandy, in Tucson, Arizona

BATHROOM CONSTRUCTION

Dear Heloise: The hint from the grandmother who suggested a smaller shower leads me to add: If you are building a new bathroom or remodeling one, have the builder install structural blocking between the studs for the toilet and the shower. This will allow for a secure installation of grab bars in the future, should the need arise.

Dimensions and locations can be found by looking up the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifications at access-board.gov/ADA/guides/ chapter-6-bathing-rooms/.

Also, use 36-inch-wide doorways, not in-swinging doors, in case someone falls in the bathroom behind the door.

- Rolf T., via email

STIFF TOWELS

Dear Heloise: To the lady from Texas whose mother's towels are stiff and scratchy when they're dried off, is she giving them too much time in the dryer? Drying towels for too long can have this effect.

- Margaret M., in Madison, Wisconsin

OUTSMART SPAM CALLERS

Dear Heloise: Whenever I receive a phone call labeled as "spam" or a call from a number that I don't recognize, I make sure that my surroundings are quiet before answering. I mute the TV or any background noise. Then I answer the call but say absolutely nothing.

This serves two purposes. First, it prevents a scammer from capturing my voice. Second, it helps me quickly determine whether the call is legitimate. If it's a robocall or an automated system, it usually hangs up after about 5 seconds because there is no voice on my end to trigger a response. If it's a real person, they will naturally speak up first.

At this point, I can decide whether it's someone I want to talk to or just another unwanted call.

-A Reader, via email

Send a great hint to Heloise@Heloise.com.