Archive   |   April, 2011

best time to make purchases

c&B

Ever wonder when the best time is to make household purchases? From groceries to gas grills, turns out there is a right time. Although some purchases can’t be planned (I’m looking at you, hot water heater), waiting can pay off. — Sarah L.

Groceries: Sunday evenings
TVs: after the Super Bowl through March
Appliances: holiday weekends
Grills: September and October
Carpeting and flooring: December
Trees, shrubs: September and October
Furniture: Holiday weekends
Chairs: May and June
Mattress, box springs: May through September

Image credit: Crate and Barrel

remove stains from antique linen with denture tablets

denture

I was recently gifted the gorgeous Irish linen tablecloth that my great-great grandmother hand stitched. It’s flawless — no stains, no tears, no fraying in any bit of the meticulous handiwork. Though honored with the heirloom, I was hesitant to accept it, especially after my mom’s conditions for possession: I had to use it. I was dizzy envisioning the inevitable accidental splash of a latte or merlot, until my mom shared her secret for removing stains out of delicate vintage linens: denture tablets. Simply dissolve 5-10 tablets (depending on the size of the item) in a warm bath and soak your delicate fabrics until they are white and stain free. Rinse gently, air dry, and press, and it should be as good as new! It should be noted that this only works on white fabrics, please don’t try this with colors! I’m proud to report I’m enjoying the tablecloth and won’t let any fear of stains keep it hidden away anymore! — Megan B.