Do you have a collection of ketchup packets in your junk drawer at home? Sure, they may be nice to have handy for burgers and fries, but you can use them right away to polish up metal, too. All you have to do is tear the packets open and smear ketchup on tarnished copper, brass or silver-plated pieces. The mild acid in ketchup eats away at tarnish, grime and dirt. Just buff off the ketchup with a soft cloth towel, and the brilliant metal shine will come right through. Rinse and buff to remove any residual ketchup.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Ever wonder how to get old stains out of carpet? Whether it’s coffee, red wine or even turmeric, it is possible to get your carpet clean using everyday items. Simply make a mixture of white vinegar with a few drops of dish soap and water. Place it in a spray bottle and saturate the stained area of the carpet. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes and then start blotting. Using a clean cloth will help lift up the stain. Repeat if necessary, and the stain will be gone!

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you have a backyard garden, you know one way to help expedite the growing process is to germinate seeds before planting them in the ground. One item that can be used to germinate seeds is used paper coffee filters. Mix potting soil with used coffee grinds and refill old filters with the mixture and seeds. The filters are a great container to use: They drain well and are durable. And when it’s ready to transplant, you can put the filter, mixture and sprouted seeds right into the earth.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION