*
Dear Polly: The non-stick coatings on my frying pans are terribly discolored. Is there any way to remove this discoloration and make them beautiful again? - Jill
Try this homemade cleanser, recommended by my local cooperative extension home economics office: Put two tablespoons baking soda, 1/2 cup chlorine bleach and 1 cup water into the pan. Simmer on the stove with adequate ventilation (turn on the exhaust fan, open a window, etc.) 5 to 10 minutes. Wash in sudsy water, then rinse and dry. Be sure to reseason after cleaning with a wipe of vegetable oil to retain the non-stick properties of the finish.
*
*
Dear Polly: Prevent pets from chewing electric cords by rubbing the cords with a bar of strong laundry soap.
If your pet's footpads become cracked, rub petroleum jelly on them.
Is your dog bothered by salt on the street or iceballs forming between its pads when it walks in inclement winter weather? Make dog boots out of golf club covers, baby booties or small socks. Sew leather or vinyl on the bottoms. Your dog will enjoy its walks in the snow.
If your dog barks or cries continuously while you're gone, try leaving a radio on softly or putting a ticking clock wrapped in a blanket in the dog's quarters. - Geneva
Dear Polly: I just put a new vinyl no-wax floor in my kitchen. Is it true that these floors don't need to be waxed? What about clean-and-shine products? - Ellen
Floor wax and even clean-and-shine products can yellow and dull the shine of no-wax floors. Many manufacturers, however, do recommend an occasional application of a vinyl dressing For best results, use the vinyl dressing specifically recommended for your brand of flooring.
To remove light soil, damp a mop with plain water. If heavier cleaning is necessary, you can add a little mild detergent such as dishwashing liquid or a general, all-purpose cleaning detergent to the water. After washing with detergent solution, rinse with plain water.
