Advice from Mrs. Dunwoody

A few months ago I found a book called Mrs. Dunwoody's Excellent Instructions for Homekeeping. It is an adorable book with tons of housekeeping, cooking, entertaining, health, beauty and gardening tips from the late 1800's. I thought that I would share some of this timeless advice with you.

Miscellaneous Household Tips

• Full-strength vinegar applied to a glass will remove the cloudy appeareance.
• Place a piece of white chalk in your silver chest or jewelry box to absorb moisture and help prevent the tarnishing of silverware or jewelry.
• Before you hand wash china, crystal or other delicate items, place a thick towel in the bottom of the sink to cushion and prevent them from chipping or breaking.
• To make your own water proof matches, dip just the tips into melted wax. Apply a thin coating and allow to dry on a piece of waxed paper. Store in a tim or other waterproof container.
• Use a dry bar of soap on creaky doors or stuck drawers.
• For a sink that drips and keeps you awake at night: Tie a piece of string to the faucet, placing the end down the drain. When the water drips, it will flow down the length of the string, which will absorb enough to silence the maddening drip.
• Rub a few drops of vanilla extract on your radiators or outer edge of a cast-iron stove. When warmed, the plesant scent is released.
• Stuff wet shoes with newspaper to speed up the drying process.
• Put sugar cubes in your empty suitcase to absorb odors.
• Tie a dozen pieces of chalk together and hang them in a damp closet. The chalk will absorb the moisture in the air.
• Shoe boxes create ideal storage for photographs, letters, or other personal items. Paint or cover with paper or fabric.

from Mrs. Dunwoody's Excellent Instructions for Homekeeping by Miriam Lukken