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Using Salt

TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-407 -- More Projects »
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To keep garlic from sticking to the knife, add some salt to both the garlic and cutting board before chopping.
TIPical Mary Ellen host Mary Ellen Pinkham provides tips for using salt around the house.
  • Roman soldiers were paid in "salt money," also called a "solarium." This is also the word from which salary derived.

  • Add a handful of Epsom salt to a small tub of warm water to create a soothing footbath that reduces swelling, helps skin heal quickly and removes toxins from the skin.

  • To remove grease stains from a rug, mix together one part salt to four parts rubbing alcohol and rub it in the direction of the rug's nap.

  • Remove rust stains on clothing with salt. Just mix together equal amounts of salt and vinegar and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then launder.

  • Soak pecans in the shell in saltwater for a few hours to make the nuts easier to remove.

  • Sprinkle a little salt on the cutting board before mincing garlic, and sprinkle a little directly on the clove. This will make it easier because the knife will no longer stick to the garlic.

  • Remove rust from bicycle handlebars and the rims of tires with a paste made by mixing together six tablespoons of salt and two tablespoons of lemon juice. Apply the paste with a dry cloth, rinse and dry.

  • A quick way to chill wine is to put the wine bottle in an ice bucket, then add a layer of ice and sprinkle with salt. Repeat until the ice and salt reaches the neck of the bottle. Pour water in until it reaches the height of the ice. The bottle of wine will be chilled in about 10 minutes.

  • Salt will hold artificial flowers in place in an arrangement. Pour salt into a vase or other decorative container. Add a little cold water and then the flowers. As the salt solidifies, the flowers will stay in place.

  • Making salt art is a fun activity for children. Place a cup of salt in a paper bag, add chalk and shake. Repeat with different colors, then fill decorative clear containers with layers of colored salt.
Also in this Episode
TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-407
•Hosting a Dinner Party
•Using Salt
•Fertilizer Basics
•Tip of the Day
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