My Retired Tea Towels
I cut them into smaller pieces, depending on their original size, hem them, and make napkins out of them. We never waste money on paper napkins and there is always room for them in the wash.
Pink Petals (Shore Acres State Park, OR)
Excellent picture, yes you did a great job! I took many photos similar to this one and framed them in 8 black 3 x 5 frames to put 4 apiece on each side of a water color painting of flowers that my husbands late mother painted. It makes a beautiful and personal...
Removing Rug Backing?
I use them in my garage, but I see somone else already mentioned that. They help get the big stuff off our feet before coming inside. And when the garage door is open they help keep the fuzzies and other things always coming off of the trees in the spring and...
Removing Pet Odors from a Rug?
Natures Miracle - they make cleaning products for everything pet odor related. Check out their web-site. If the pet supply stores dont carry the one you want, you can order it on-line.
Favorite Books?
First let me compliment you on an awesome post I never would have thought of. I am currently reading an old Dean Koontz book that somehow escaped me years ago called Winter Moon. Last I discovered the author Stephanie Meyer with her book The Host which will...
Removing Wallboard Over Drywall?
You might want to check with a paint store first. I know the kind of wallboard you are talking about as my bathroom had it too when I bought my house. Its surface may not take paint, even primer, very well. Then again, they may have something that will work...
Keeping a Spreadsheet to Monitor Budget
I have been doing this for over a year now. It was part of my plan to save money while having less coming in. There are of course other parts to my plan, but this reminds me of what I have spent as it is easy to forget. Also after a year I have decided there...
Buying Good Quality Flannel Sheet Sets?
I bought a set at Bed Bath and Beyond last year and they are still great. Not a huge selection of color or pattern, but the quality is good.
Removing Odors from Sneakers?
I wouldnt have believed you could wash leather sneakers in the washing machine, but you can. I first tried it with a pair that I would have thrown out could I not clean them. I took the insoles out to wash separately. Dry everything in the sun and theyre almost...
Washing a Dry Clean Only Robe?
Wash on gentle, line dry. If it is a heavy robe, you may have to run through the spin cycle more than once.
Sideburns Grew Back Thicker After Being Shaved?
Hair only seems thicker when it has been cut because the ends are blunt. Eventually it will return to its prior condition.
Use Bleach For Removing Mold
I am in the middle of Hurricane Irene country and one thing on all the donation request lists is bleach. There are times when bleach is the most effective mold killer. Of course it should be used properly and with caution, as should any cleaning product. I...
Receiving Disbursements from an IRA?
You need to contact the financial institution where your IRA is held. They can calculate your minimum required distirbution for you if you only want to take the minimum, or if you want to be sure you are taking at least the minimum. They will most likely have...
Reuse Dishwashing Liquid Bottles For Bleach
Sometimes things are so obvious I dont know why we dont all think of them!
Causes of Itchy Scalp Other Than Dandruff?
Perhaps you have developed an allergy to something in it or they have changed their fornula - new and improved! Definitely stop using the shampoo and see what happens.
Replacing Land Line with Basic Cell Phone?
Verizon has a plan to add a house phone to your cell phone plan for $10. Its part of the add a line deal. You can add another cell user or a house phone. But you need to get decent service in your area of course. Its basically another cell phone but you can...
Best Dry Cat Food?
The best quality cat foods are not necessarily going to be the tasiest ones to your cat. Just like people, cats like the junk food more than the healthy stuff! If money isnt the issue, then try the Blue that someone else mentioned, or Chicken Soup for the Cat...
Shopping for Inexpensive Foam Hand Soap?
I wasnt aware that you bought it as a foam, but rather the pump in the bottle foams it as you dispense it. I have refilled foaming dispensers with regular liquid soap and a little water.
Tiny Black Bugs in the Cupboard?
Weevils. I had them once. They hatched out of a bag of old whole wheat flour. It took me three weeks to get rid of them, but I did, just before I was desperate enough to call an exterminator. Check how e-how.com and look up how to get rid of kitchen weevils...
Painting Trim Different colors?
Sure you can, you can do anything. But you may regret it years later. I only painted natural trim in my house in the rooms where it was quite beat up.
Adopting a Rescue Pet
I just adopted a Boston! I already have a Boston and love the breed and so looked for another. He is badly bred and probaby came from a backyard breeder so we are keeping our fingers crossed that he remains healthy. Bostons are so lovable and adaptable.
Removing Smoke Odor After a House Fire?
For your clothes I have read on Thriftyfun many times that Coca-cola, regular not diet and not Pespi either, in the wash will take the smoke smell out. Try doing a Thriftyfun search for more information on that.
Tiny Black Bugs in Kitchen?
If they are weevils, the best advice I found to get rid of them was on www.ehow.com. Even after I got rid of all the food the darned things were around for a long time. I managed to get rid of them just before I decided to give up and call an exterminator. Ehow...
Getting Rid of Blackheads?
Apply a paste of baking soda and water. Let sit a few minutes then rinse off with hot water, following up with cold. Its natural and not damaging to your skin.
Shopping for Reasonably Priced Men's Jeans?
I get my husband Wranglers at Wal-Mart for between $11 and $13 just for working in. He has nicer jeans for everything else. Levis are definitely too expensive for the rough jobs.
Choosing the Best Kitchen Knives?
I dont profess to know the best knives for everything although I do have a set of Cutco steak knives which were very expensive and worth it. For tomatoes I bought a special tomato knife from Chefs Catalog and will never be without one again!
How Much Shrinkage Can Occur in 100% Cotton Jeans?
Wash them the way you plan to wash them on a regular basis first. Then do your measuring and cutting.
Kelly (Long Haired Calico)
I love her! She looks part Maine Coon. Not pure but definitely a lot. I really like her name too. It was wonderful of you to give her a home.
Removing Urine Stains from a Mattress?
Natures Miracle, available on-line or in pet supply stores. They sell several different ones, some even for getting urine out of laundry.
Using Citrus Peels as Cat Repellent?
Ants would be attracted to orange juice. Plus the zest of the fruit is where the oil is and is what makes it so strong.
Removing Creosote from Clothing?
Lestoil is my best advice. It gets out all kinds of other grease and oil. Good luck.
Dog Keeps Barking at Cats?
I just adopted a second dog, who barks at my cats. He knows what the water bottle is about. I dont have to spray him (little does he know there is no water in it) I just show it to him and say, No Bark. Hes catching on. But like everything involved in dog training...
Training a Dog to Ring the Bell
I know this works for some dogs. But not all! I have driven myself nuts ringing the bell to go out and yes I was diligent about doing it every time! For over a year! That said, its certainly a great idea when it works. Just dont expect every dog to catch on...
Trap Dust At Air Vents
I agree with the others. My husband is an HVAC man and you never want to restrict air flow too much. Thats what dampers are for.
Cleaning Shower Curtain Liners
I used to buy the plastic liners and wash them in the washer as others mentioned. But eventually they would develop a tear and need replacing. Then I bought a hotel fabric liner which has lasted for about 7 years now. I can wash it anytime in the washer, and...
Photo: The Mouse of Blues
Keep that imagination fueled. You never know when it will be a real asset or even a means of making a living. Dont stop!
Pets and Maintenance People In the Home
Be careful. You might better put the dogs in the bedroom and hide the crate. Someone I knew had their house robbed after a delivery, by it turned out, the delivery people. They knew the dogs were crated and so would not be a threat to them when they came back...
Choosing a Reputable Dog Breeder?
It sounds like you have gone to a backyard breeder. A quality breeder shows their dogs and will only breed to promote the best qualities in a breed and breed out the bad ones. You can still get a loving pet from these places, but there is often a compromise...
Dog Has Diarrhea After Swimming in the Ocean?
Its the salt water. A lot of dogs will also get diarrhea after swimming in chlorinated water if they swallow a lot.
Dog Has Diarrhea?
See a vet. They will probably recommend a bland diet which is boiled chicken, ground up, and white rice.
Making Healthy Dog Biscuits?
Do a Thrifty fun search. Ive got several from here. Their favorite (and mine because its so easy) is from Three Dog Bakery. Four ingredients, peanut butter, whole wheat flour, baking powder, and milk. They love them!
Games to Play With Kids While Driving
I love your idea about family history! I am shocked at how many young people know nothing about their families. When I was helping my husband fill out passport paperwork there was information he didnt know and I was really surprised that he didnt have some...
Caring for Your Septic System?
I forgot to mention to limit your use of anti-bacterial soaps as they will kill the good bacteria in the tank too. Also liquid soaps are better than bar soaps when it comes to the leech field.
Caring for Your Septic System?
Usually a garbage disposal is a no-no with a septic tank. Maybe if yours is large enough and to you treat it well, it can handle it. The brown sugar yeast concoction already mentioned is great. I just mix it up right in the kitchen sink and when its all foamy...
Rabies Shot Alternative?
Your vet would know as well. In New York we can titer for everything but rabies.
Digital Camera Won't Connect to Computer?
I have the same problem and it is the drive on my computer. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesnt. Luckily I can import them thru my printer.
Removing Scalded Milk Stain from Pot?
If its just a stain, it wont affect the pot. You can still use it. If its stuck on milk, then one of the other suggestions should work.
Does the Wind Remove Mineral Powder Makeup?
I dont know about it being a marketing ploy. I have rosacea and it does help my face look more even toned than any other makeup. It does have to be applied properly with the proper brush or you just have a lot of powder on. When I first got mine I was able...
Kitchen Flooring Advice?
Vinyl. You can get just about any pattern/color you can imagine. Get a good quality and it will last. I have 4 cats and a dog. My floor is now ten years old and looks brand new. I keep it vacuumed so that dirt doesnt ruin the finish and washed every one to...
Dyeing Bra Extensions?
Unless you are parading around in public in your underwear, dont worry about it!
Training a Puppy Not to Jump and Nip?
I see that you have lots of advice already, and I have not read through it all. I will just say that you need to treat your puppy the same way its mother would. A puppys mother and litter mates will not put up with nipping. They will ignore and refuse to play...
Cleaning Your Croc Shoes
I do wear mine in the shower when camping, but at home I just toss them in the washer with other dirty yardwork clothes. I have had the same pair since the year they came out on the market! I have also discovered that I can wash leather sneakers the same way...
Cleaning Diamonds at Home?
I was told by a jeweler at least 25 years ago to clean diamonds with amonia. Never pearls or turquoise. Been doing it ever since and never damaged a stone.
Cats Not Using the Litter Box?
If your dog is neutered, he is showing the cat he believes he is dominant. This is normal behavior. The first question always with litter box issues is, how often are they scooped? Cats do not like dirty litter boxes, or litter with scents. They also do not...
Treating a Cat With Watery Eyes?
Dont use old medicine! I have a white cat with watery eyes too, and its allergies. Not so bad that I have to treat him, but allergies in animals is getting more common all the time.
Icemaker Fan Freezing Over?
Believe it or not, you may be LOW on coolant. Its worth having it checked by a repairman.
Soft Foods After Tooth Extraction?
You may be able to eat cooked spinach for iron. Other than that, when my husband had all of his uppers removed he ate pudding, yogurt, scrambled eggs, orzo over cooked in chicken broth and mashed potatoes. Luckily mouth wounds heal very quickly so it shouldnt...
Keeping Flies Away from Outside Dogs?
They do make bug spray just for dogs. I have seen expensive all natural brands in expensive pet supply stores, some less expensive in Petsmart, and some in farm supply stores.
Getting Rid of Large Flying Ants in the House?
They may indeed be ants. We have carpenter ants which are huge and I can bet in Florida all bugs are bigger! When an ant colony gets too big, they swarm. Some grow wings and leave the nest to start new colonies elsewhere. They dont keep their wings for long...
Cat Splashes Water Out of Bowl Then Drinks?
You dont want a cat fountain. The cats like them, but they are dirty. They only filter the particulate matter, not bacteria and other nasties. The pump gets loaded with gunk and slimy stuff and the whole thing needs to be completely taken apart at least weekly...
Can Fleas Live in a Person's Hair?
Fleas do not live on your pet. They feed on your pet, and sometimes you. They prefer your pet because their body temperature is higher, but any port in a storm. They live outside, and when they leave your pet indoors, your carpet and furniture. If you have...
Distilling Water at Home?
The sun will help remove chlorine if the water is treated. However, minerals will remain in the water, and possibly lots of other stuff too.
Painting Dark Wood a Light Color?
I had an entire room like that. It was very dark. Some people might have thought painting it was a mistake, but I have no regrets. I primed it well first, twice, and then painted it. Ten years later and the paint is still holding up.
Getting Rid of Calluses on My Feet?
Can you handle one more? I joke that my feet are more like hooves because the calluses are so thick. I vote for the Ped Egg and Avons Intensive Callus remover. I never would have thought the Ped Egg would work so well, but it was very inexpensvie at BJs so...
George Foreman Grill That Does Not Heat Up?
Replacement appliance parts of all kinds at www.goodmans.net
Paint Color Advice to Tone Down an Orange Cast on Cabinets?
Any shade of brown will only contrast with the orange shade of your cabinets making it more obvious. Actually going with a color in the orange family like light peach will make the cabinets look more brown. Home Depot and paint stores offer to mix a small jar...
Wildlife: Fourth Generation Raccoons (Rancho Palos...
I adore raccoons and love how this one looks like it is smiling for the camera.
Removing an Oil Stain from Cotton Clothing?
And if none of that works, try Lestoil. It took car door grease off my white raincoat and I was very impressed. Let it sit a bit before washing.
Turning Soap Slivers Into a New Bar of Soap?
Or just keep them in a plastic travel soap container until you have enough to melt and reform into a bar.
Getting Vaseline Out of a Microfiber Couch?
I would think you would need to use something that will break down grease and oil, like Dawn dish soap.
Painting a Bench After Cleaning With Bleach?
Lilac is right. And if you put it in the sun it will happen faster.
Reusing Plastic Drink Bottles
I know Ive heard the thing about not reusing plastic bottles many times. I will admit I do it anyway. Somehow I just dont think its reusing a plastic bottle thats going to get me. It seems to me that all the artificial ingredients and preservatives in our food...
Dryer Sheets For Garbage Odor
Do you cut them and only use part? Although I am sure it keeps the trash from smelling so much, it doesnt seem very thrifty to me.
Looking for a Good Dispenser for Baby Oil?
I use a small spray bottle that originally held a body oil from Avon. It works great because the sprayer was always intended to spray oil.
Identifying a Set of Green Glass Dishes?
I too immediatley thought of Depression Glass. Its very valuable now. Have it checked by someone who would know.
Dog Recently Terrified of People?
Puppies go through fear phases. One when they are around 8 weeks old, and then again around 4 months, and some go through a third at 14 months. Of course different breeds develop and mature at different rates. Your puppy is probably just going through a fear...
Removing Dye Transfer on Popup Camper Canvas?
Is it really that bad? I camp in a popup. You are camping! So long as the canvas is good, it certainly isnt thrifty to replace it. You could spend that money on so many other things!
Low Water Pressure Due to Dirt from Well Water?
You definitely need to take all the aerators off the fauces and let what dirt is being pushed through flow out. The aerators will hold it back. Also a lot of sediment accumulates in the bottom of hot water tanks and most people rarely drain them once a year...
Can Clothes Effect a Dog's Behavior?
Well I can see someone else already told you about Thunder vests. I have a Boston Terrier and he too is much calmer when I put a sweater or his winter coat on him in the cold weather. He doesnt mind wearing them, he just seems to cease activity. Hell even fall...
Where Can I Buy #63 Canning Jar Snap Lids?
www.specialtybottle.com They sell glass, plastic, and metal containers of every kind imaginable and I believe you can get lids for all the products there too. Also very reasonably priced.
How Can I Make a Cat Bed?
I used an old flattened pillow for a cat bed. I put a zipper on an old flannel pillow case and then it stayed on securely but was easily taken off and washed. My cats thought it was a great idea!
Microfiber Fabric on Couch Looks Hairy?
I would try contacting the manufacturer directly instead of the retailer. That does not sound right. I have a microfiber couch and even with 4 cats a dog it is NOT hairy! The retailer probably doesnt want to be bothered unless you want to buy a new one.
How Do I Clean Grease Stains Out of Dried Fabric?
I have used Lestoil on really horrible stains. I got a raincoat caught in a car door and that grease was really black and horrible. Lestoil worked, but I did have to do it a couple of times.
Musty Smell in Basement?
My basement always smells musty when it starts to get warm. Thats when I know its time to haul the dehumidifier out.
Product Review: Dyson DC 23 Turbine Head
I have a Dyson Animal 17 - not the ball type. It works great so long as I open up that little place at the bottom where the Hepa filter is and clean it off every time I use it. That thing collects as much animal hair as the container does. Then theres virtually...
Where Can I Buy Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth?
Food grade is also available in better pet supply stores just for this purpose.
Choosing a Throw Rug for a Earth Tone Kitchen?
Slate Blue. Ive seen it done. It breaks it up a little so that it all doesnt seem the same, but it blends as well since it too, in the right shade, is an earth tone.
How Do I Sanitize a Stainless Steel Bowl?
I completely understand your feelings. No matter what, you will always know what was in there. Another good place to find replacement parts is Goodmans.net. They have replacement parts of every appliance imaginable. I have replaced mixer beaters and dishwasher...
Oil Stains on Clothing?
I have used clarifying hair shampoo to remove oil based stains. Rub in and let it sit for a while before laundering.
Rubber Snake To Prevent Nesting Birds
Hey! It worked on my birds! We just took down their nest for the fourth time this spring. They keep building in the frame of our retractable awning. Not a good place. Problem is now they are building on the other side! So now I have to go buy a bunch more snakes...
Rubber Snake To Prevent Nesting Birds
Well its worth a shot for me to try it! Maybe it depends upon the type of bird? Maybe some birds arent really aware of what snake are? I have to admit its been years since I saw a snake anywhere. Hopefully my nesters see them when they fly south for the winter...
Do I Need to Insure My Credit Cards?
I always thought insurance was to cover catastrophic loss. Not to cover every type of loss there possibly is. We have to be able to handle some losses ourselves. Loss is just a part of life.
Home Remedy for Blackheads?
Wash face and open pores with warm water. Apply a paste of baking soda and water. When it begins to dry rinse with hot water, then splash with cool water. Perfectly clean!
Teething Kitten?
Well they certainly are too big to choke on. My cats love to steal straws out of drinks whenever someone turns their back. They look pretty mangled when I find them under the stove or wherever, but never has a piece been actually chewed off.
Finding Free or Inexpensive Canning Jars?
And if you didnt mind paying a little bit, try http://www.specialtybottle.com. They have an amazing selection of bottles and jars. I found perfect sized 6 ounce jars for my yogurt maker there very inexpensively. They even came with extra lids. Really, their...
Dandruff Remedy?
I tried every shampoo with a different active ingredient and even used prescription Nizoral. None of them worked and some made it worse. Then I began using Hollywood Tea Tree Oil on my scalp. Cured it. I like the Hollywood brand because it doesnt have the offensive...
Wildlife: Butterfly Kisses
Oh you should enter this in every contest you can! Its fantastic! Its beautiful, its sweet, and it captures a childs innocence!
Eliminating Litterbox Odor in Your House?
I have a Freshmatic nearby spritzing every 36 minutes and during the muggy summer months an air cleaner. I also use only Tidy Cat or Arm and Hammer clumping litter. Hey, are those your 4 kittens posted above? Too cute. I needed that smile today!
Vintage, Retro, Scraps and Twin (Kittens)
God Bess you for taking them all! You must be a very special and loving person!
Uses for Expired Grapeseed Oil?
You can use it as skin oil or as one of the ingredients in a recipe for skin oil. If you do a search in ThriftyFun you will find a recipe. I have it printed at home or I could tell you what it is exactly. Its wonderful in winter.
Surprise Birthday Party Ideas?
I too am from the Albany area, so I know its a bit early for planting. So depending on the type of gardening she does, get her gift certificates. I know I would love that so that I didnt have to spend so much on my own to have the flowers I love when the time...
Garvan Woodland Gardens (Hot Springs National Park, AR)
I so wish I were there right now! Thanks for the day dream!
Paint Color Advice for a Bathroom With a Cherry Vanity?
I have cherry cabinetry in my bathroom. You can use almost anything. My tile is white as are my fixtures. The accent tiles on the top row are white with a royal blue design. I have white and light blue wallpaper. As long as you dont do anything garish like...
