Easy Does It!: Cheap and Simple Ways to Solve Common Household Problems

There are hundreds of items of advice in this volume, and they are applicable to topics as diverse as gardening, household cleaning, the entertaining of guests, caring for pets, simple mechanical care, and many others. Who would imagine some of them! Did you know, for instance, that dressing in clothing that contains vertical stripes makes you look taller? Or that vinegar can clean and deodorize your coffeepot? Or that you can avoid smashed fingers, when driving in a nail, by first sticking the nail into a piece of cardboard before driving it home? Or that a licked and closed envelope can be re-opened, without damaging it, by freezing it first? Or that olive oil can substitute for shoe polish? Much of the advice presented in this book centers upon foods. There is a ranking of peppers according to their spiciness. The flavor of coffee can be prolonged by keeping it at a freezer (since chemical reactions, including those that degrade feedstuffs, tend to proceed more slowly at colder temperatures). I found this to be the case. Finally, the advice presented here is not merely relevant to household conditions. For example, there is a suggestion to re-use plastic egg cartons for the holding of paint--a different color in each chamber. As a teacher, I found this especially useful in children's art projects. What's more, the messy egg-carton "palettes" can be disposed after the project is over.

I have used this book on an as needed or reference basis. It gives several ideas and solutions for each problem I have looked up. The solutions I chose worked and were helpful.

I came across this book at a friends house and found myself sifting throught it. It has ALOT of useful information on so different many topics. It has useful tips on everything from how to clear a drain with cheaper products to how to save money on gas...I had to order a copy of my own ASAP, you should to!

This is the title that every person needs to own!! It has wonderful commonsense information about a huge amount of everyday household problems and topics with easy solutions. For instance, in reference to a mouse problem in my house, it gave me at least 4 different ways to deter the little critters. All of the ways consisted of items which I already had in my cabinets, but didn't know would solve the problem. The diversity of topics absolutely amazed me and encouraged the immediate placement of this title on the most accessible shelve in my bookcase. I know that it will be indispensable!! The price is perfect too. Thumbs up!