Gloves help condition hands while washing dishes

DEAR HELOISE: I rubbed lotion on my hands before putting on disposable gloves to clean my kitchen and wash dishes. The hot water “conditioned” my hands while I worked. Taking the gloves off, I enjoyed a neat kitchen and soft hands. — Kathy McGovern, Lewes, Del.

DEAR HELOISE: We recently moved, and being tech-challenged, I decided to use my cellphone to take a picture of my TV/cable-box hookups before disconnecting and packing up. It made setting everything up in a new location a breeze. — A reader, via email

DEAR HELOISE: The light above my kitchen range burned out. When I removed the cover to change it, I was aghast at the grease and gunk on the cover and exhaust mesh filter .

I popped both into the dishwasher with a load of pots and pans. I added a little extra detergent and, presto, both were good as new. — G.W. in Columbus, Ohio

DEAR HELOISE: I have a hint for the little plastic bags that buttons, extra thread or sequins come in. When I get a dress, top or coat that has any extras, I attach the bag to the hanger with the garment. This way, if I need them, they are right there. If I lose a button, etc., and it’s not on the hanger, I know that there is none . — Joanne G. in Texas

DEAR HELOISE: My grandson comes over often and loves to help me in the kitchen. I bought a step stool so he could reach the counters and sink easily. The top was a little slick, so I got some inexpensive bathtub appliques (the nonslip type) and placed them on top of the stool. — Kellie in Washington

DEAR HELOISE: Dried eggshells can be easily crushed for recycling calcium for houseplants, as well as for needed nutrients for gardens. I have crushed 1 quart and will broadcast this over my small garden before tilling . — A reader in Indiana

Hints from Heloise is syndicated by King Features Syndicate. Send great hints to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000; by fax, 210-HELOISE (435-6473); or by email, Heloise@Heloise.com.