Every few days pop the sponge in the microwave oven. Wet it first, and then zap it for about a minute and a half. It will keep fresh and free of bacteria. Make sure it’s cool before you take if out.

Mix equal amount of ketchup and water, and rub it onto your copper with a soft cloth. Wipe off, and smile at your reflection.

When using self-stick paper to line the shelves, cut the paper to fit the space and tear the backing off the edges. It’s easy to install and when it needs to be changed you don’t have the sticky residue left.

In a pan with about a quart hot water dissolve 1 tablespoon of laundry water softener and 1 tablespoon of salt. Place a sheet of aluminum foil on the bottom of the container and immerse the tarnish silver. It should become clean in about 10 seconds.