Handy Hints

Clever solutions from our readers

Dishwasher double duty

It can take forever to wash greasy dust off switch plates, light fixture covers, stovetop drip pans and other household items. Why not just wash them in the dishwasher? This works great with plastic, aluminum and steel, especially for items like grilles with gaps and detailing. Put them on the top rack and send them through a normal cycle. Don’t do this with items that are enameled, painted, plated or made of brass or wood.

JEFF ROBINSON

Quick-draw measuring tape

The clip-on my measuring tape used to fray the pockets of my jeans. To prevent more damage, I unscrewed the clip and screwed a pot magnet in its place. I hook the clip onto my pocket. Now it’s easy to grab the tape and put it back when I’m done.

BOB DOWNEY

CLEAN SWEEP

To make sweeping up a breeze, I modified a dustpan to fit my shop vacuum’s floor fitting. I attached the fitting to the dustpan with a hose clamp.

ROBERT GILLETTE

MIX YOUR OWN WINDOW CLEANER

Most professional window washers don’t buy window cleaner. They make their own by mixing a teaspoon of dishwashing liquid with a few gallons of water. That’s it. You can just pour it into a spray bottle for indoor work. For outside windows, get yourself a combination sponge/squeegee and dip it right in the bucket.

FUR FILTER FOR DOG BATHING