It started with a peaceful afternoon on our backyard deck. As my husband, cousin and I shared a bottle of wine underneath a canopy of oak trees, we were wickedly raided by yellow jackets. Fortunately, at my cousin's suggestion, Bounce came to the rescue! I was not only thrilled, but astonished by the immediate results--by just placing several sheets of this laundry cloth on our table, the yellow jackets removed themselves from the party posthaste. And happily, we were able to finish enjoying our bottle of Woodside Pinot Noir.
The next morning Bounce became the newest fixture on my outdoor entertaining checklist...and yes, I was also consumed with thoughts on the best way for outdoor Bounce presentation. But regardless, I have to say how simple the Bounce solution was--no bait traps, no sprays and all that goes with that. It made me think about other household items that we use for purposes other than how they are intended. So I hope that after sharing a few with you, you will share even more with me. But no "wives tales" please. Results matter!
Here are a few of my favorites:
When out of Restoration Hardware "vacuum bbs", laundry dryer cloths can be placed inside the vacuum bag. This is a great way to keep carpets and rugs smelling fresh.
In a pinch, when diffusers, candles or bathroom sprays are unavailable, a bar of fragrant soap will do. Put the soap in a small jar and place it behind the commode. It is a quick, temporary and inexpensive fix for unexpected situations.
When wooden furniture is scratched or chipped and there is no time to purchase furniture repair markers at the hardware store, use Sharpie markers instead. I prefer the fine point tip over the thick. Caution though-use sparingly by layering small amounts of ink at a time, Sharpies are permanent.
Toothpaste works well on water marked wood furniture. Take a small amount of toothpaste on a damp cotton cloth and buff the area in question. Then remove the excess paste, clean and re-oil or wax. Point of reference: Arm & Hammer Dental Care, Tom's of Maine Sensitive or Colgate Regular are less abrasive than most other brands.
No spackle left? For a quick wall nail hole repair-use tissue and toothpaste. Mix a very small amount of the two, fill the hole and paint.
After rotating an opened box of baking soda out of the refrigerator (I use baking soda in the freezer too-great for removing odors), empty its contents into the sink. Every little bit helps. Also, a small amount of Seventh Generation non-chlorine bleach for clothes can be used to freshen your kitchen and bathroom drains.
Now, if there was only an easy remedy for my affliction...on second thought, never mind...duct tape will need topic time of its own!
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