OOPS!  Quick fixes for the Holidays

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If I ask you to close your eyes and picture the perfect holiday dinner party, would elegantly dressed guests come to mind, sitting at an impeccably decorated table by flickering candlelight?  Then you're certainly not at my house, and you can disregard this article.  For the rest of you, here are some essential quick fixes for those little holiday mishaps.

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Candy cane stuck on rug.  (or couch, or table, or bed...)
Remove the excess, then blot with ¼ teaspoon dishwashing liquid and 1 cup water.  Sponge with water and blot dry.

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Candle wax on tablecloth. 
Forget the gifts, nothing is more fascinating to my children than messing with the candles!  Harden wax with ice and then scrape it off with a dull knife.  Sponge the stain with dry cleaning fluid, launder when dry.
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Grease on upholstered furniture. 
So no one knows why that meatball is sitting in the middle of the couch?  Sprinkle talcum powder over the spot and let stand for 15 minutes or until the grease is absorbed.

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Red wine on carpet. 
Blot with a towel to soak up liquid.  Apply a solution of ¼ teaspoon dishwashing liquid and 1 cup water with a clean cloth.  Blot and rinse with warm water and blot again.  Repeat until detergent is removed, press with cloth until dry.  If that doesn't work try a white vinegar solution and next time serve champagne!

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Stained china. 
Don't put Grandma's china in the dishwasher!  Then you'll have stains and cracked china.  Soak in a mild solution of 1 teaspoon bleach and 2 cups water until stains are removed.

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Makeup on clothing.   
Red lipstick and a white blouse seemed like such a classy combo, didn't it?  Rub stain with softened bar soap, then launder as usual.  My secret weapon when I'm out?  Baby wipes.  They get out a multitude of stains (what exactly is in those things?). 

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Remember that gatherings are about enjoying food and family; the house doesn't have to be spotless.  Having a few tricks up your sleeve as you celebrate, though, can keep those little "oops" moments from dampening your holiday spirit.

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For other household messes visit:  Cleaningtips.net   

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