Helpful household tips

Clean produce: To make sure there are no critters hiding in the hinterlands of that nice fresh bunch of broccoli or crispy head of cauliflower put 2 or 3 tablespoons of vinegar or a handful of salt into a sink full of cold water and submerge your produce for a few minutes. If there are any said “critters” hiding in the innards, they will make a trip to the top of the water in a hurry and you can dispose of them before you start to work on your beautiful salad.

Sports special: ‘Tis the season for soccer and baseball and sometimes, even football uniforms. Now a beautifully green playing field is a wonderful sight except to the mother who has to try and get the grass and mud stains out of the white uniforms. (Why in the world would you choose white for a uniform that is going to be rolled in the grass and mud? Must be a man thing. I’m thinking moms of the world would be using grey or green—anything but white! Anyway, to get out the stains, mix equal parts of white vinegar and your favorite liquid laundry soap. Rub it into the stains really well and then let it set for a good 20 to 30 minutes and then launder. I’ve even gone so far as to let them sit in a plastic bag overnight and then wash them. It works!

Canning jars: If you think you will need canning jars this year, now is the time to be looking for them. Ask your neighbors if they have any jars they no longer use or check out the yard sales and thrift stores in your area. I’ve gotten several boxes of canning jars at yard sales for just 25 cents for the whole box and have also had neighbors give me their no longer needed canning jars. With brand new canning jars costing $1 each or $12 for a case of jars, the 25 cent ones are a real bargain. Yes, you do need to buy new lids and rings, but they last for years if properly cared for. I know I have some that are a good 20 years old and I’m still using them. Farmers markets have all manner of fresh fruits and vegetables this time of year so why not save yourself some money over the long run and learn how to do some home canning? It’s saved me hundreds of dollars over the years and isn’t that difficult to learn. Your local extension office has all kinds of information/recipes, etc., and the latest on the proper timing.

If you have hints or ideas to share, send them to PennyWise, Box 518, Kadoka, SD 57543; or email them to pennywise@gwtc.net. If you send me your name and address, I’ll send you a free copy of the PennyWise Newsletter. Please mention High Plains Journal when you write.