Sherri's Helpful Hints

Kitchen Tips

• Cast Iron Cookware - Clean cast iron cookware with mild detergent and water. Do not use abrasive cleaners or pads. Cast iron should be dried immediately to avoid rusting. Rusting may also be prevented by coating with oil when not in use. Cast iron cookware may also be cleaned by placing items in a self cleaning oven during its cleaning cycle.


• Non-Stick Cookware - Follow manufacturer's instructions for washing non-stick cookware. Dishwashing liquid may be used with some non-stick surfaces, while others may be washed with warm/hot water only. Remove grease using a nylon or plastic pad. Do not use abrasives, steel wool or scourers on non-stick ware. To remove stubborn stains, mix two tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda with half a cup of vinegar and a cup of water and boil for 10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly.


• Stainless Steel Cookware - Use mild detergent to clean stainless steel cookware. To remove stubborn stains, use a plastic abrasive pad, or soak is recommended. Shine the outer surfaces of stainless steel cookware by rubbing vigorously with wads of newspaper. Do not use steel wool, as it may scratch the surface.

Garbage Disposals - Garbage disposers clean themselves if used properly. To assist in cleaning, run cold water while unit is still on after grinding has ended. The drain line should be purged periodically. First, ensure any waste has been disposed of. Next, fill the sink with two or three inches of cold water. Turn on the unit on, and allow this water to run free of any waste. The drain line should be purged if it will not be used for several days. This will help prevent waste odours. Waste odours may be removed by running orange or lemon peels or ice cubes through the disposer. Do not clean by putting drain cleaning products into the unit.

Bathroom Tips

• Before hanging shower curtains, soak in salt water solutions to prevent mildew.


• To remove mildew, wash in hot soapy water, rub with lemon juice and let the shower curtain dry in the sun.


• For plastic curtains, clean with laundry pre-wash spray. Spray along the top, letting it run down to cover the curtain. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then rinse it off.


• Remove soap and hard water buildup on shower tile with tile cleaner. Then apply a good paste wax and buff with a dry cloth to deter future water spots.


• To remove mildew from the corners of the tub, dip cotton balls in bleach and let them sit, when you finish cleaning the bath, remove cotton and rinse well. The mildew will be gone.


• Can't get to that dirt in the corner? Make a pointed tool by cutting an old whisk broom at a 45 degree angle.


• Keep the toilet bowl ring-free by pouring a half-gallon of white vinegar in it once a month. Let it soak overnight before flushing.


• Don't use bleach if you're already using a tank-held cleaner that's released when the toilet is flushed. The two may react chemically.


• To avoid clogging and odors, pour one cup baking soda down the bowl weekly.