When rust starts to form on bakeware like muffin tins and cookie sheets, it may seem like it’s time to replace them. But it’s easy to remove rust and save your cookware using things you already have. Just cut a raw potato in half and dip it in dish soap. Then use the cut end to scrub the rust off your bakeware. You can also add some baking soda for grit; just keep rubbing until the rust lifts up. The combination of starch from the potato, degreaser from the soap and grit from the baking soda does wonders to shine up your rusty bakeware.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Many of us have plastic or aluminum blinds covering our windows; they are convenient, but they also can collect a significant amount of dust, dirt, pollen and other allergens that can contribute to an unhealthy indoor air environment. Once a year, slip the blinds out of the windows and let them soak for one hour in the bathtub in warm, slightly soapy water. Use a soft cloth to remove stubborn dirt and grease, then hang the blinds up in a breezy spot to dry before re-installing on your windows.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Real leather bags, shoes and furniture can crack or deteriorate over time from weather and heat. Store-bought leather conditioners can work, but they can also be expensive. So make your own: Just combine 1 part beeswax, 1 part cocoa butter and 2 parts sweet almond oil in a saucepan over low heat. Let the mixture melt and pour it into a heatproof container until cool. Then use a soft towel to rub your DIY mixture directly onto leather; as you massage, it’ll penetrate, buff and recondition old leather.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION