Today’s Sound Off is about mixed messages:

Dear Heloise: During this pandemic, we all heard about various ways to avoid becoming ill, such as washing our hands, not touching our faces, wearing a mask, etc. However, I find it disturbing that there is so much misinformation out there.

The only place people should be checking for facts and guidance is with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC. They have the best advice and will not recommend using dangerous drugs or other risky therapies. To be certain you are getting the facts, check out their website at www.CDC.gov. — Cecilia in Maryland

Cecilia, you’re right. It’s best to consult with a legitimate health organization that can give us up-to-the-minute information. During the COVID-19 outbreak, there has been a lot of misleading and contradictory stories circulating, some of them potentially harmful. — Heloise

SEND A GREAT HINT TO:

Heloise

P.O. Box 795001

San Antonio, TX 78279-5001

Fax: 1-210-HELOISE

Email: Heloise@Heloise.com

FAST FACTS

New uses for cling wrap:

— Wrap a paint roller to keep it from drying out.

— Put a layer in a paint tray for easy cleanup.

— Cover windows in winter for added insulation against drafts.

— Wrap pieces around a tool handle for a better, non-slip grip. — Heloise

CHOOSE METAL OVER PLASTIC

Dear Heloise: You can buy metal forks, knives and spoons at the dollar store very cheaply for when you have a party or barbecue. Then just throw them in the dishwasher for the next party. Never buy plastic again! — Janice C., Mobile, Ala.

Janice, that is an excellent idea. The metal cutlery can be reused many times, which is cost-saving. It also means less plastic goes into a landfill. Great hint! — Heloise

IT’S TOO LOUD

Dear Heloise: I agree with a comment in a previous column about loud music over the top of TV shows. I also cannot hear or understand what they are speaking. That is when I change the channel or turn off the TV. How can the shows’ producers think this is a good idea? — Rita, Hondo, Texas

Rita, I can understand your frustration. Loud music can ruin your enjoyment of a program. Perhaps you should write to the producers of the show. They might make a few changes. I often wonder why they need music at all during some programs. — Heloise

DRIP DRY

Dear Heloise: Here’s my hint: Turn an old dish drainer upside down in your utility sink. Put plants there to water them, and they can drain completely before you put them back in their drip trays. — Darlene G., Pittsburg, Texas

WEDDING BOUQUET

Dear Heloise: Why does the bride toss her wedding bouquet? — Sandy in Michigan

Sandy, the tradition of the bouquet toss is believed to have started in England. It is meant to send good luck to the one who catches it and, supposedly, she will be the next person to wed. In any case, it makes for a little more fun and celebration. — Heloise

DOG FOOD

Dear Heloise: There are a growing number of people who like to make their own dog food, but they need to keep something in mind. A homemade dog food may be high in protein but lacking in vitamins. If you do make your own dog food, ask your vet about vitamins you can grind up and put in their food. If your veterinarian makes recommendations on your dog’s diet, it would be wise to listen. — Larry in Texas

MILKING IT

Dear Heloise: I pour milk into the almost-empty strawberry jam jar, put the lid on, and shake. It makes instant strawberry milk, which the kids love. It also works fine with grape jelly and even hazelnut spread. — Donna in California

Donna, this is a great way to use every last bit of something. We love it! — Heloise

STRAY SOCKS ROCK

Dear Heloise: I use stray socks for cleaning and dusting, but I just realized, it’s better to turn the sock inside out first. The inside of the sock has loopy fibers that are more absorbent and better to clean with. — Carole in Nevada