Dear Home Ec 101, If you were going to replace some of your cookware with cast iron or enameled cast iron, including a large dutch oven, would you purchase enameled cast iron, plain cast iron, or stainless steel? I do cook a lot of acidic foods, is this a concern? Signed, Pot Likker¹ PS. I … Read more
Heather says: The ideas in this post may not be of immediate use for you. Many of you will say, it would take more time than the savings provide. That may be true for where you are today, but you never know what information you may need in the future. Just mentally file it away … Read more
Dear Home Ec 101, What is the best way to care for a leather couch? I have seen several leather conditioners advertised, but do these leave a waxy finish? I have had my leather couch and love seat for four years, and they have held up well, but a few scratches are starting to show up. … Read more
Dear Home Ec 101, What exactly does thread count mean? If I’m buying sheets is it true that I should buy the highest thread count I can? Signed, Threadhead Heather says: This is the non-technical explanation. I could start throwing around words like warp and weft, but there’s no need just to get the general … Read more
Dear Home Ec 101, Can white vinegar be used as a natural dishwasher rinse aid? It seems that I remember reading that somewhere. White vinegar seems as though it would be more environmentally friendly and less expensive than the commercial dishwasher rinse aid products. Is there any harm in using white vinegar as a rinse … Read more
Dear Home Ec 101, Lately I’ve noticed a greasy ring around the top of my machine, a Whirlpool Ultimate Care II which is a top loader. I know my clothes are *clean* but the washing machine grosses me out. I have tried scrubbing with vinegar, but it came back. Onto problem #2, which is connected. … Read more
Dear Home Ec 101, I’m moving to Virginia in about a month, and in my visits I discovered a wonderful little farm nearby that sells free-range, organic chickens. But, the only way to buy them is whole and frozen. Generally, that’s wonderful! I love cooking with whole chicken. But, there are only going to be … Read more
Heather says: Fall is just around the corner. –Try telling that to the marketing people in my inbox, they keep sending emails that say, “Fall is officially here.” Um no, not until next week, try again.– That said, in most areas of the country the triple digit days are over and it’s time to head … Read more
Dear Home Ec 101, Every time I have tried composting, it gets full of ants and I freak out and spray the compost pile. That’s probably not so good, eh? Is it okay for a compost pile or bin to be full of ants? Signed, Scared There’ll be Ants in My Pants¹ Heather says: I … Read more
Heather says: Yesterday’s post on How to Freeze Food inspired a few more questions. Rather than extend an already long article, this is the second installment on freezer tips. Can you do a post on freezing leftovers? I’m a single gal, and while I do cut down most recipes, sometimes I have a couple stuffed … Read more