Dear Heloise: If your readers are using makeup brushes, please advise them to wash those brushes at least once a week. The same goes for makeup sponges.

Here at the dermatologist’s office, we see so many skin infections that are caused by dirty makeup brushes, sponges, and women who sleep in their makeup. All three of these are no-nos! — K.D., in Florida

DIRTY BLANKETS

Dear Readers: For heavily stained or soiled blankets (cotton, rayon or other fabrics), spray the spots and presoak them. Wash for 4-6 minutes in cold or warm water (depending on the care label) on the delicate cycle with detergent and oxygen bleach (if the label says it’s OK).

Dry on the gentle cycle or line-dry. For a quick freshening, put blankets into the dryer on the air setting with a fabric softener sheet. — Heloise

LIVING ALONE

Dear Heloise: I live alone, and although I always check the locks on the doors and sometimes the windows, I will occasionally hear strange noises from outside. Now I keep my car keys on my nightstand, and if I hear a noise that I shouldn’t be hearing in my yard, I press the alarm button on my key fob.

This trick worked when two young boys tried to steal my car a couple of years ago. I set off the alarm and dialed 911. The police caught the boys, who were both 14 years old! — D.L., in Ohio

PROPER DISHWASHER CLEANING

Dear Readers: Our dishwashers get a lot of use, and if your dishwasher has an odor, try to find out where the smell is coming from. First, look inside the dishwasher to examine the drain hose and the bottom reservoir for residue or food particles that may be trapped there.

Gunk and grease can accumulate, and if the water isn’t hot enough to wash it away, this stuff can cause an odor. Use a large wad of paper towels to clean out the reservoir. Be careful because there could be broken glass or sharp bits. The smell may also be coming from clogged kitchen drainpipes or sewer lines. If you suspect this, call a plumber.

To prevent these odors, clean the dishwasher every month or so by pouring 1/2 cup of bleach or 1 cup of household vinegar into the detergent cup and running it through a cycle. There are commercial dishwasher and freshener products that can do the job, too. In between uses, pour baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher to help control any odors. — Heloise

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Hints from Heloise run occasionally in Lifestyles. Readers may send a hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000, fax it to 210-HELOISE, or email: Heloise@Heloise.com.