Helpful Hints from the 1930s

Clean Hair Required

"Let us rejoice that simplicity is the keynote of the season's coiffures, whether they be swirled in broad "ribbon" effects or twisted high in an Oriental knot.  But since the whole charm of these hair sytles lies in the lustrous gleam of the hair itself, don't let cold weather be an excuse for postponing your at-least-once-a-week shampoo.  You know, of course, that you should brush your hair every night.  An extra thorough brushing just before washing hair is important; this loosens old skin, dandruff and dust, so that they can be readily sudsed off."



"The bottom of the garbage pail can be kept from rusting by washing clean and coating with hot paraffin about one-half inch thick."



"To cut a slab of bacon into thin, even slices, first chill it in the freezing compartment of the refrigerator until firm."



"To clean and brighten rugs use a good soap with one-half cup of household ammonia to a bucket of water.  Wash with a scrubbing brush."



"To remove discolorations from aluminum utensils, boil in a weak solution of cream of tartar or a mixture of two tablespoons of vinegar to each quart of water."



Clean Waffle Grids

"An easier way to clean the grids of a waffle iron is suggested by the household equipment of  a New Jersey experiment station.  Place a paper napkin soaked with household ammonia between the grids and leave overnight.  The accumulated grease is easily wiped off then with steel wool.  To prevent waffle sticking, grease preheated grill with unsalted oil before using.  To keep grids in best condition leave the iron open to cool after it has been used."



Homely Turths

"Corn meal will remove grease stains from carpet.



Never use extremely hot water on linoleum or oilcloth.



Glycerin rubbed over corks will prevent them from sticking in the bottles.



The kitchen window sill should always boast a cheery plant of some sort.



A kitchen papered in an oiled, washable paper will be bery easy to keep clean if a coat of clear varnish is applied when the work is finished.  The wall will wear like a dish."



Brighten Gilt Frames

"Brighten gilt frames with a light application of half-and-half solution of alcohol and household ammonia.  Rub it on with a very soft brush; never use a cloth as it may remove the gilt.  In about five minutes, dirt and imbedded grime with be softened and easy  to remove with another soft brush dipped in water.  Place the frame in the sun to dry, and avoid handling it as much as possible."



Eat Carrots for Beauty

"Eat carrots for Vitamin A.  This is the vitamin that helps to prevent night blindness.  It is important for good skin, good linings to nose and mouth and other body tissues."