Tinsnips can double as kitchen shears

DEAR HELOISE: If you don't have any kitchen or food shears, try tinsnips. The idea came to me while trying to remove the backbone of a chicken. I washed them first, and they worked great! I was able to cut right through those bones. -- Patsy E., Port Deposit, Md.

DEAR HELOISE: I cringe when reading articles about the use of plastic newspaper sleeves to pack shoes when traveling. I did that many years ago, only to find spots all over the shoes, and they would not go away. It could have been caused by moisture or heat somehow.

Old men's socks work great instead. I stuff small items into the shoes so they retain their shape. Also, the socks are useful to buff up the shoe surface. -- Nadine in Salem, Ore.

DEAR NADINE: The bags are safe and provide a "green" way to pack shoes. In your case, the shoes might have been damp. -- Heloise

DEAR HELOISE: I've discovered a good use for old dishwasher racks. When it's time to replace the dishwasher, save the bottom rack. Use under a bed for shoes, etc. It rolls over carpet well. I have three under my bed, and I love them. -- Ruth in Westminster, Calif.

DEAR READERS: What is the best way to put out a candle?

A) Blow it out.

B) Use a snuffer.

C) Pinch the flame with your wet fingers.

D) Push the wick into the wax with a metal blade.

According to the National Candle Association, the safest way to extinguish a candle is to use a snuffer! If you said "B," you would be correct. -- Heloise

DEAR HELOISE: I graduated from high school and received a laptop computer as a present to take with me to college. I also was told something important that I think is worth sharing. When the built-in camera feature is not in use, whether the computer is on or off, I keep a small piece of paper stuck over the camera to block the feature. This way, if for any reason the feature is accidentally turned on, I (or my roommate) will not be caught on camera.

Another hint that works for my roommate and me is to always let each other know when getting ready to video chat. This way, no one gets caught in the background walking past fresh out of the shower. -- Brenda L. in Florida

DEAR BRENDA: Great security hints! It is always smart to be safe. With cameras on computers and cellphones, privacy is an issue. -- Heloise

DEAR HELOISE: More and more stores sell or give you their reusable bags when you check out with your purchases. Before you know it, you have quite a few. I use mine to store belts, scarves and other odds and ends. -- Georgia S., Kansas City, Mo.

DEAR HELOISE: I stitch an extra button into the hem of my favorite shirts for work. If I have a button at the ready, it's no problem to replace. -- Susan in North Dakota

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.