Dear Heloise: I find that this hint helps, especially during the hot months of the year. After blowing out a sweet-smelling candle, I pour the wax onto a sheet of tinfoil in the sink and let it dry. I then divide it into pieces and put them in indoor and outdoor garbage cans. It really helps. Thanks for your work over the years. — S.C., in Lincoln, Nebraska

HAVE A HANDY LIST OF MEDS

Dear Heloise: My husband has several drug prescriptions. I typed a list into the computer so that we have a record of his current medications and added a date to the list. If the doctor changes the dosage or adds/deletes a drug, it’s easy to update the list.

I printed a list small enough to fit into his wallet so that he can confirm the list with the doctors at his appointments. The doctors and nurses appreciate a legible list to compare to their records. I found a kit at an office supply store so that I can laminate the list he carries in his wallet.

We read your column every day in the Colorado Springs Gazette. — Sue J., in Colorado

WHITE VINYL FLOORING

Dear Heloise: I read your advice a few days ago in the Villages Daily Sun about using vinegar and baking soda to clean stains off a luxury vinyl floor. I had a few chemical stains on my floor, and it worked like a charm with a lot of elbow grease.

My floor is mostly white with streaks of color. I’ve noticed that the white isn’t as bright as it used to be. When I cleaned the stains, I could see that the floor directly around the stains is now brighter. So, is it OK to use a mixture of vinegar and water or vinegar and floor cleaner to clean the entire floor? Can I do it weekly or just monthly and only use regular floor cleaner the rest of the time?

I don’t want to damage my floor in the long run, but I want to brighten it up. — Shelley P., in The Villages, Florida

Shelley, to clean your vinyl floor, try 1 part vinegar to 2 parts water for cleaning at any time. Usually, one or two cleanings per week for a kitchen floor is enough, but in between, you can vacuum or sweep your floors. Never use an abrasive cleaner or steel wool. — Heloise

LIVING TRUSTS

Dear Heloise: Regarding the message from Frances A., in Lima, Ohio, your will suggestions were perfect. (As usual.) After I bought my house over 30 years ago, my parents suggested that I do a will. (I was already divorced and had a son.) So, I did.

A few years later, my parents suggested that I change the will to a living trust because it avoids probate, saves time and remains private. So, I did this as well. My brothers and I had an easy time with our parents’ living trust, and it comforts me to know that it will be really easy for my son when I leave.

Thank you so much for your (and your mom’s) awesome column. — Debi G., in Stanton, California

YOUR VOTE MATTERS

Dear Heloise: For those who say that their vote doesn’t count, I can show them that this isn’t true. In 2018, an election for the Virginia House of Delegates was tied after recounts and judicial decisions. The winner was decided by drawing a name out of a ceramic bowl.

The House was tied between Democrats and Republicans, and the drawing decided which party was in the majority. So, a single voter could have decided which party was in the majority. — Stan F., via email

SEND A GREAT HINT TO:

Heloise@Heloise.com