Household Hints Index

Miscellaneous Hints

Bicycles...
To identify a bicycle, even though the serial number may have been filed off, roll a file card around a pencil. Remove the bicycle's seat post and drop the card into the bicycle frame. It can easily be removed as proof of ownership.

Measuring...
Have you ever been out shopping and needed to measure something (a frame, a shelf, furniture) but didn't have a ruler? Here are some helpful tips: a dollar bill is 6 inches wide and 2 1/2 inches tall, whereas a standard sheet of paper is 11 inches tall by 8 1/2 inches wide. With either or both of these "tools" you should be able to measure most smaller objects.

Price Tags...
To remove price tag sheets, sponge hot vinegar onto the price sheets liberally. Scrape gently. Continue applying vinegar until the sheet is gone.

Use lemon extract to remove price tag sheets.

Apply salad oil. Let set for a while, then scrape away.

Septic Tanks...
To aid your septic tank in doing its job, wash or flush a box of baking soda down the drains every couple weeks. This helps to maintain and restore the pH of a septic tank. A good pH allows bacteria to break down and liquefy, which helps to prevent problems like backing up and clogging.