The care instructions have washed off | News, Sports, Jobs

Dear Heloise: My mother, a Texan born in 1918, first put me onto Hints from Heloise from your mother when I was a young woman, and I’ve been reading Heloise’s columns and books ever since. I now read your column in San Antonio Express-News.

In the last few years, I’ve encountered a common problem that probably drives other people crazy, too: care labels printed in white ink inside the backs of dark-colored T-shirts and other garments. These garments can still be dried even after being washed in cold water. “low,” These labels are worn out long before the garment. Then, it’s impossible to decide whether to wash the garment with “darks” Or “lights,” In oder out “warm” Or “cold” water.

While I understand the reasons manufacturers and some wearers don’t like tags in seams, it is possible to attach or print labels that last the life of the garment. My husband and I use the best magnifying glass we have to try to read what’s left of a label if possible, and then find an inconspicuous place on the collar Or hem of the garment to mark “C” or “W” Indicate wash temperature (cold/warm), and then “L,” “W,” Or “LD” To indicate the drying process (low-, warm- or line dry). Problem is, most laundry-marking pens are black.

I hope that manufacturers will pay attention to this. We are grateful for your help over the past many years. — Cynthia E. Lyle, San Antonio

CAR REPAIR RIPOFF

Dear Heloise: While I have read the letter regarding car repair shops taking advantage of women, they will also attempt to do that with men. A catalytic converter was needed to fix my check engine light. I received an estimate of $2,200.

I know a lot about cars, but I thought it sounded totally wrong. I went to another mechanic and discovered that the problem was with an EGR valve. The repair cost me $175. — Gregg Kreamer, Fort Dodge, Iowa

SAVE THESE BAGS

Dear Heloise – I used to joke at my mother for doing it, but now I do it. After you have finished a box, open the bag and shake out any cereal crumbs. Then wrap your meat or chicken in the bag. You can then put it in the freezer.

I also use the plastic bags some pastas come with, such as egg noodles, to do the same. I store ground beef and chicken breasts in them — easy to squeeze the air out, fold and wrap. Thanks, Mom! — Valerie Andrukiewicz, Plainville, Connecticut

SCOOPER FOR MELONS

Dear Heloise, After many years of using a spoon for cantelope seeds (or similar melons) cleaning, I switched to using an ice cream scooper. Works fantastic! — Dick House, Pinellas Park, Florida

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Lifestyles occasionally features Hints from Heloise. Heloise may be contacted by readers to send a hint. Postal Box 795000 San Antonio Texas 78279-5000. You may fax it to (210-HELOISE) or email Heloise@Heloise.com. Letters won’t be answered personally.