Get your lint trap really clean

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 11/05/2020 (1963 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Dear Reena,
I have always cleaned my dryer’s lint trap after each load in order to promote efficiency of the drying process, long life of the heating element, and safety. But I find that there is some embedded lint that does not seem to budge, even after I have vacuumed the screen and then used a toothbrush (dry and  wet) to try and remove it. I have even tried a toothpick and ,although this method seemed to be more successful, it was far too time consuming. Is there another more effective and easier method I can use to remove the embedded lint? I would be grateful for any helpful advice.
Mac

Dear Mac,
Fabric softeners and other laundry products do leave a thin layer of film on dryer sheets. Soak the lint dryer screen in a bath of warm, soapy water for about 15 minutes; then use a stiff scrub brush/nail brush to remove the lint. Rinse all the soap from the screen in 50/50 vinegar and water and air-dry overnight prior to use.

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Dear Reena,
I am trying to make gifts for my friends during this very difficult time. Can you please provide me with a recipe for ‘chocolate chip cookies in a jar’?
Belinda

Dear Belinda,
You will need a large 1-quart jar. Combine: 2 cups flour, 1 tsp. baking soda, half tsp. salt. Into the jar layer half-cup brown sugar, followed by half-cup white sugar and then another half-cup brown sugar, and then add 1 cup chocolate chips. The last layer is the flour mixture. Close the jar and attach a note with the instructions. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Empty cookie mix into a large mixing bowl. Add 2 eggs, 1 tsp. vanilla and one-cup margarine, or butter, stir to combine. Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet covered with parchment paper. Bake 11 to 13 mins. Cool and enjoy!

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Contributors share

Dear Reena,
I found that using nail polish remover is an easy way to get rid of sticky tape residue, stuck on household items. Cliff

Dear Reena,
I have had a front-load washer for approximately 10 years and never had a problem with odors. I use only powdered Tide detergent for washing and white vinegar in the fabric softener cup. I do not have to clean my machine because of residue build-up from the liquid soaps and softeners. I do not use dryer sheets in my dryer and do not have any coating on the drum from the sheets. There is no odor from the vinegar, just a nice fresh scent. I have recommended this to quite a few people and they have all said this works and the odour is gone immediately. Anonymous

Timely tips of the week

• If stuffed animals are non-washable, sprinkle some cornmeal or cornstarch on them to clean them. Let them set, then brush the cornmeal or cornstarch out. The dirt will drop off with ease. Marc

• Before you put up a new plastic shower liner, soak it in a tub of warm water mixed with a cup of salt for a half hour, don’t rinse before hanging. The salt acts as a drying agent, preventing the humid conditions that breed mold and mildew.

• Want a clean and clear bathroom mirror after showering? Squirt a small dab of shaving cream onto a paper towel; rub it over the glass, then wipe with a dry cloth. The cream leaves an invisible film, making it difficult for water beads to stick and giving you a fog-free mirror for weeks.

• So that cheese doesn’t stick to foil when making lasagna, cover the dish with parchment paper first, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This also prevents cheese from sticking while in transport

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.

Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website: reena.ca. Ask a question or share a tip at reena.ca