Make your own waterless hand cleaner

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 27/08/2016 (3367 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Question: Can you tell me how to make my own waterless hand cleaner? — Ruby

Answer: The FDA states that in order for a waterless hand cleaner to effectively kill germs, it must contain at least 60 per cent alcohol. Make your own peppermint hand sanitizer by combining: 125 ml (1/2 cup) aloe vera gel, 180 ml (3/4 cup) rubbing alcohol and 2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) peppermint essential oil. Mix and store in a spray bottle.

Question: We are interested in buying a home in our area. The problem is the house has a very strong curry odour. Please tell me what I can do to permanently get rid of the smell. The thing is we love the new carpet and the paint colour. Please help us. Thanks, Charles

Answer: Consider renting an ozone machine. This little machine is not recommended for regular use, but it is great for enclosed areas that have had smoke or flood damage (or other strong smells). The machine lets out a molecule called O3 (which is oxygen with an extra molecule attached). The third molecule escapes into the air and absorbs all odours. These machines may be rented at tool-rental retailers, as well as some hardware stores.

Other than that, you can light fragrant candles such as soy blueberry or cinnamon (this is only a temporary fix). Always put soy candles in a container, as they will spread out when they melt. You can also light my absolute favourite, a collection of beeswax candles. Or make your own air freshener with vinegar or water and 15 drops of your favorite essential oil, such as cinnamon, orange or grapefruit. Happy housewarming.

Question: We bought bronzeware cutlery in Thailand 25 years ago and found it shows spots that look like water stains. How can we remove them? — Michelle

Answer: Bronze disease is one of the most serious hazards of bronze. This disease is caused when chlorides and oxygen combine in a damp environment. Bronze disease can be stopped by going over the piece with a layer of coconut oil. If this does not help, wash the piece in repeated changes of boiling hot, distilled water. You may need to soak the object for a week or more in distilled water. Or dissolve 15 ml (1 tbsp) salt in 250 ml (1 cup) white vinegar. Add enough flour to make a paste. Apply paste to bronze and let sit for one hour. Rinse with clean, warm water and polish dry. Or place 30 ml (2 tbsp) baking soda in a small dish. Drizzle a small amount of lemon juice onto the baking soda and mix until a soft paste forms (start out with just a little lemon juice and add more as needed). It is normal for the mixture to bubble at first; it will settle down after a moment or two. Apply the paste to your bronze item using your rubber gloves or a small polishing cloth.

Worst-case scenario for non-plated bronze: use a diluted solution of muriatic acid, available at any hardware store. I hesitate to mention muriatic acid because it is the strongest product available for home use and very dangerous to use. Extreme caution must be taken as it will burn through skin. If you are desperate and decide to choose muriatic as a last resort, test first. Mix 30 per cent acid with 70 per cent water, according to the directions on the bottle. With proper gloves, take a rag, dip it and rub the bronze lightly. The acid will work immediately on corrosion; you will notice a light, copper-coloured tarnish. Wipe off all traces of acid and water; polish with olive oil. Use muriatic acid at your own risk and be safe!

Question: Do you have a solution to get lipstick out of cotton navy slacks that have gone through the dryer? Thank you, Elspeth

ANSWER: Tackle this dyed grease stain with the help of hot water and Oxyclean; it may take more than one washing. Other products that you can use are shaving cream, dandruff shampoo and rubbing alcohol —remember to test them first so you don’t risk discolouration. You can also wash the slacks in washing soda. Don’t give up: wash the slacks several times and don’t put them into the dryer until the stain is gone. Worst-case scenario: boil the pants in a product called Iron Out or use Rit dye remover according to the directions on the box. Note that either of these products will lighten the fabric color.

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.

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