My fondness for TV game show lighting rounds — the duration of the round is a predetermined length of time, and the goal is to accomplish as much as possible within that period — may have something to do with my attention span. Lightning-round questions are short, the answers quick and concise.
I see we have lots of questions in the audience, so let's set the clock. Ready? Set ... Go!
Q: Do I HAVE to use HE-labeled laundry detergent only in my new Whirlpool washer? If so, why? — Pegg
A: Yes. If the owner manual recommends HE detergent, that means it is a high-efficiency washer. HE washers use considerably less water and have sophisticated computer-like electronics. They're very smart! HE detergent creates no suds or bubbles. The presence of too many suds can confuse washing cycles, cause delays and make proper rinsing of clothes difficult, if not impossible. Refer to your manual, and then do what it says.
Q: Can you recommend a cordless vacuum? — Lara
A: Sure can. In fact, I can recommend two — a stick-style cordless vacuum and a handheld style. Since you didn't specify, I'll tell you about both, and hopefully before the clock runs out on our lightning round!
I've been using my Eufy HomeVac cordless stick vac for nearly a year now. It's simply fabulous. It's lightweight; it holds a charge, like, forever; it's easy to clean; it stands up by itself; it's quiet as can be and so handy.
I love my handheld vac so much I have three of them — one in each of the main areas of my home. Each one gets a regular workout, too. The Black + Decker HHVI320JR02 Dustbuster handheld vacuum has a lithium battery (long run time and doesn't need to be stored in the charger); it's easy to clean and offers excellent suction.
Q: Do you have a DIY solution for cleaning grease on stove hoods and wherever grease seems to accumulate? — Anon
A: Yes, I do. But let me caution you to clean those areas routinely, which means often. Once grease builds up on a stove, hood or other kitchen area, it gets more and more difficult to remove. Here's the perfect degreaser for routine cleanup of the cooktop, hoods and surrounding areas (being careful to avoid granite that has been treated with a sealant):
1 part distilled white vinegar
1 part water
1 tablespoon Blue Dawn
Combine in a sprayer bottle, and it's ready to be used.
Q: Why isn't my dishwasher getting things clean anymore? The glasses are coming out cloudy, and so is the flatware. — Carol
A: It could be any number of problems, but I suggest you start with the easiest. Is the rinse-aid reservoir empty? Most dishwashers these days have a place to be filled with a rinse aid like Jet-Dry (check the owner manual). Make sure you keep that filled. Next, when did you last clean your dishwasher? We need to clean our dishwashers routinely — at least once every three months. The hoses, filter and water-spraying mechanisms can get a buildup of hard-water minerals. The filter can become clogged with yuck and gunk.
Here is one method to clean your dishwasher that has been proved to be effective for many:
Step 1. Remove and clean the filter to remove all that buildup. Soak it in warm, soapy water for 10 minutes, and then replace.
Step 2. Pour 1 cup of white vinegar into the bottom of the empty dishwasher. Run a heavy clean cycle.
Step 3. Sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda in the bottom of the dishwasher and leave overnight. In the morning, run an empty cycle.
Step 4. Gently scrub any remaining dirty areas with a toothbrush.
Still experiencing a problem? Bring out the big guns with a commercial product like Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner. Follow the instructions on the label.
Want more information plus specific resources and additional information on products mentioned above? Products and resources linked here: EverydayCheapskate.com/lightning-round/ .
Mary invites questions, comments and tips at [email protected], or c/o Everyday Cheapskate, 12340 Seal Beach Blvd., Suite B-416, Seal Beach, CA 90740. This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of www.DebtProofLiving.com, a personal finance member website and the author of "Debt-Proof Living," released in 2014. To find out more about Mary and read her past columns, please visit the Creators Syndicate webpage at www.creators.com.
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