Now Here’s a Tip – July 27, 2021

#Middlebury

• If you’ve lost a zipper pull, you can create a temporary one with a paperclip.
• Remove all of the air from a plastic storage bag with a drinking straw. Slip the straw into the bag and close as much as possible. Then suck any air out through the straw, and quickly pull out and close in a single motion. Your leftovers will stay fresh longer, and foods may stack better in the freezer.
• And speaking of straws, did you know you can use them to curl your hair? Wind sections of damp hair around a plastic straw and secure the ends with a bobby pin. Dry in the sun or use a hair dryer on low heat. Remove and spritz with hair spray.
• Here’s an oldie but a goodie! Iced coffee is at its best when brewed with twice the usual amount of ground coffee, because the coffee is diluted by the melting ice cubes. Or use regular-strength brewed ice coffee and serve over coffee ice cubes. They’re easy to prepare: Pour cool brewed coffee into ice-cube trays and freeze.
• Lemon juice can bring out the flavor of mushrooms. I keep a little spray bottle to keep lemon juice accessible in the kitchen. I find it’s good for all kinds of things, like avocados and apples. I spray the cut side to keep them from browning. It’s also great for salad greens. – T.T. in New Jersey
• Make your own camping lamp: Strap a headlamp to a full gallon jug of water. It fills the tent with a soft light, and you can still drink the water!

Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.

© 2021 King Features Synd. Inc.