Jewelry Cleaning Tips and Magnetic Attraction

by WiredBerries Readers — January 22, 2007

Readers this week offer more ways to clean silver jewelry and soften wool sweaters after washing. Also an overnight remedy for dry feet, a very berry smoothie, and a new use for magnets.

Monday, January 22nd
Another Jewelry Cleaning Tip

This one from Nancy Heiss in Orem, UT, who soaks her baubles, especially silver, in a cup of white vinegar for a few hours. “Wipe the pieces down with a damp rag,” she advises, “and allow them to air dry.” The tarnish residue may stain the cup you use for soaking, so use a disposable container.

Tuesday, January 23rd
Softer Sweaters, the Sequel

A few weeks ago, one of our readers suggested using a capful of cream rinse in the final rinse for sweaters. Debra Young of Winnipeg, Manitoba, has another suggestion: “Add a teaspoon of baby oil to the final rinse,” she writes. “Not only does this serve to replenish natural oils in wool, which washing depletes over time, it makes the garment soft and will repel water on your outdoor woolens.”

Wednesday, January 24th
A Rescue Remedy for Dry Feet

“If you experience dry and cracked feet during the winter months,” says Kathie Tyrrell of Grants Pass, OR, “try rubbing Vaseline or other petroleum jelly on the soles of your feet at night, then put on a pair of old socks. After a few days of treatment, you should see considerable improvement.” She also adds that petroleum jelly is great for burns: “It seals out the air that causes the burn to hurt, keeps the area protected, and helps it heal faster.”

Thursday, January 25th
Smoothie of the Week

This berry-berry blend comes from Eleanor Hart of Portland, Maine, and serves two:

1 cup cranberry-blackberry juice
½ banana, chunked
6 ounces key lime or lemon-flavored yogurt
3/4 cup frozen raspberries
1 cup crushed ice

Place all ingredients in a blender and mix on medium-high until well blended. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

Friday, January 26th
Magnetic Attraction

Have you ever lost a small item, such as an eyeglass screw or a needle, in thick carpeting or between the cushions of the sofa? JoEllen Mitchell of Westfield, MA suggests using a powerful magnet—the kind found in science kits or possibly a good refrigerator magnet—to save yourself endless searching. Run the magnet over the area where you suspect you lost the item and you should be able to retrieve it in no time.