Simple Solutions #2

Simple Solutions #2

Simple Solutions are just that. Many of the ideas you will find, in this and future columns, came from “Ah Hah” moments when I needed  an inexpensive, easy way to solve a problem. Others are ideas that I read about or were told to me .  All have been tried and been proven successful.

In weeks to come, you, our readers, will see helpful tips on many of life’s subjects: tools, cleaning, painting, child rearing, etc. Each solution will be numbered sequentially throughout this column’s history. You can read back issues of the Herald to easily search for past tips.

Our viewers are encouraged to send in “tried and true” economical hints to share. Credit will be given to the individual who first submits on a particular solution. All hints will be tested to ensure safety and viability.

Today’s Tips

#3 Extend the life of wood cutting blades.

Wood workers, whether hobbyists or in the construction industry, will appreciate this inexpensive solution.

After prolong use of wood cutting saw blades (carbide circular, table, chop saw, or hack saw, etc.), they become dull. They no longer make the clean, sharp cuts you need. Quite often, the built-up resin from wood or composites is the cause.

Before throwing out the seemingly dulled blade, try using oven cleaner on it. Dollar store brands are fine for this.

Getting the resin or sap off the teeth

First, wipe off the blade if it has dirt on it. In an unconfined area, wearing gloves, liberally spray the blade on both sides. Place the sprayed blade on something that won’t be harmed by the oven cleaner’s chemicals.  Let the blade sit for a couple of hours. Rinse the blade with water. Dry with a clean rag, being careful not to cut yourself on the blade’s teeth. You’ll see the resin buildup wipe right off the teeth.

Your blade should seem sharper and ready to give that clean cut again.

 

#4 Limiting ice crystals on ice cream and other frozen food.

Are you tired of the ice crystals that form on edibles stored in your freezer? They can negatively affect the food’s flavor and appearance.

Here is the simple solution!

Ice crystals are caused by air that has frozen. The more directly empty space between the food and container it is stored in, the more crystals form over time.

Once you open a carton of ice cream, scoop out the desired amount needed. I know, who’s ever heard of left over ice cream? However, should there be anything left, place a piece of either plastic wrap or parchment paper over the remaining ice cream, pushing down to make sure no ice cream is uncovered.  You are pushing out the air that causes the ice crystals to form. Put the carton lid back on and put back in the freezer. Repeat this process every time you use the ice cream. You can even use the original protective layer each time.

Keeping the air out is key

The protective layer of wrap or parchment helps keep the air away from the food so that very few, if any, ice crystals form.

This hint works well for anyone who makes premade dinners to store in the freezer. Just remember not to place the protective layer on before the food has cooled.  You don’t want melted wrap on your food.

You can also limit ice crystals forming on like- sized flat packages of store-bought meat. Place two together in the freezer in their original flat containers with the meat sides facing each other and the Styrofoam packing on the top and bottom.

Again, you are limiting the direct air flow to the food.

Let me know if these things work for you or if you have a simple solution of your own!

Sayre