For marks on black patent leather shoes or a handbag, sponge with a mild soapy solution. Test a less visible area, say the back of the heel, and if you’re happy, sponge the whole surface down without overwetting.

Putting a salad together but not quite enough ingredients? Go to the garden: both nasturtium flowers and leaves (which are really peppery!) are lovely and delicious additions.

If you have a rotary drier, it’s a good idea to apply a spot of 3-in-One oil to the moving parts every few months. If rust develops, rub down to the bare metal with wire wool and apply a coat of outdoor paint.

Always searching for the remote control? Fix a strip of Velcro to the back of it, another to the side of your coffee table, and with luck you’ll never lose it again!

Do you often wake up with a blocked nose? Rather than a cold, it could well be down to a dust mite allergy. Vacuum both your mattress and under the bed often, and wash bedlinen at 50 degrees. Use anti-allergen covers on pillows.

Treat your washing machine nicely and it will repay you. Check the filter from time to time, removing fluff and stray coins – it’ll be less likely to flood the floor.

This is the time of year when fruit flies are at their worst, and seem to multiply by the million. The only way to get rid is to starve them! Transfer every source of food in the house – including bread and hard vegetables – to the fridge, and soon you’ll be fruit-fly-free!

If you’re decorating at home and want to get rid of paint fumes, put an open dish of vinegar in the room.

Are you planning to move home? Selling? Buying? Downsizing?

Well, I’ve teamed up with my mate from the TV – Martin Roberts – Homes Under the Hammer, to let you know of his latest YouTube Channel – Martin Roberts Property Titbits

Well here he is so he can tell you himself!

Tell him I sent you.

Aggie

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Mix half warm water, half vinegar (any type) with a handful of sand. Pour this sludge into your container, give it a good swirl and leave to stand for about an hour before rinsing thoroughly.