It’s said that we unconsciously form opinions about other people in the first 3 minutes that we see them. I don’t know if that holds true with houses, but I do know that curb appeal is very important in the real estate business. Here is some information to help you keep the outside of your house neat … Read more
Dear Home-Ec 101: We just moved into an older house and I don’t think anyone has cleaned the windows in years. We had it pressure washed and used Windex but the windows still look covered in grime. Are there any other solutions I can use that will get off the tough dirt. Signed, Let The … Read more
Heather says: Learn from me -Unless you have one of those clog free gutter systems like they advertise on the radio. all. the. time. – add “clean out the gutters” to your list of semi-annual maintenance. Why? Gutters collect leaves and twigs. These leaves, twigs, and ahem, saplings prevent the the flow of water. … Read more
Ivy says: My latest in bathroom reading has been a book of household hints from 1970. Some of the hints are useful, some of them are truly amusing in their datedness, some of them are perplexing. Something that really struck me was this quote: “There is no point in embroidering or buying a ‘Welcome’ mat … Read more
Dear Home Ec 101, Where I live we have to pay for trash disposal. The trash disposal company we use gives us great big trash cans that most of us around here call dumpsters. Today, I was so embarassed when I got this note from the trash disposal guys: “Could you please clean out your … Read more
My Darling Home Ec Divas, I’m all set for Memorial Day weekend. I have family and friends coming over for a barbecue. The menu’s set, the food is bought, the house is clean (well, it’s getting there), I’m ready. Well, except for one thing. My lawn furniture is ewww and funk. Seriously, I don’t know … Read more
Dear Home Ec 101, My husband has finally agreed to have our house and granny annex professionally pressure-washed. There’s quite a bit of pale green mildew on the vinyl siding. Is good ole’ bleach and water the best cleaning solution? Should soap be added? If so, what kind (dish? dishwasher? laundry? hand?)? Any other tips … Read more
Ivy says: I ain’t gonna lie, kids. My car would easily win the Home-Ec 101 Seal Of Disapproval at any given time. I have three kids and spend a lot of time on the go. Well, a poor excuse is better than none, as my grandma always said. Twice a year, however, it’s all shiny … Read more