Important: Safety Warning
This page recommends pest-control substances such as arsenic compounds, strychnine, or cyanide — in some cases applied to food crops. These substances are lethal to humans and animals, and their use is now banned or strictly controlled.
This page directs the use of hazardous substances — such as benzine, gasoline, lye, or strong acids — for household tasks. These materials are highly flammable, corrosive, or poisonous, and the practices described have caused fires, burns, and poisonings.
This information has been left in for historical purposes but should not be acted upon.
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Housekeeper's Alphabet
APPLES-Keep in dry place, as cool as possible without freezing. BROOMS-Hang in the cellar-way to keep soft and pliant. CRANBERRIES-Keep under water, in cellar; change water monthly. DISH of hot water set in oven prevents cakes, etc., from scorching. ECONOMIZE time, health, and means, and you will never beg. FLOUR-Keep cool, dry, and securely covered.
GLASS-Clean with a quart of water mixed with table-spoon of amonia. HERBS-Gather when beginning to blossom; keep in paper sacks. INK STAINS Wet with spirits turpentine; after three hours, rub rell. JARS-To prevent, coax "husband" to buy our Cook-Book. KEEP an account of all supplies, with cost and date when purchased. LOVE lightens labor.
MONEY-Count carefully when you receive change.
NUTMEGS-Prick with a pin, and if good, oil will run out. ORANGE and Lemon Peel-Dry, pound, and keep in corked bottles. PARSNIPS-Keep in ground until spring.
QUICKSILVER and white of an egg destroys bedbugs.
RICE-Select large, with a clear, fresh look; old rice may have insects. SUGAR-For general family use, the granulated is best. TEA-Equal parts of Japan and green are as good as English breakfast. USE a cement made of ashes, salt, and water for cracks in stove. VARIETY is the best culinary spice..
WATCH your back yard for dirt and bones.
XANTIPPE was a scold. Don't imitate her.
YOUTH is best preserved by a cheerful temper.
ZINC-LINED sinks are better than wooden ones. & regulate the clock by your husband's watch, and in all apportionments of time remember the Giver. :