Dear Selena, It is important to hire someone that understands your expectations and you understand theirs. Begin by taking a few minutes to get to know the individuals by asking them to describe themselves, and their housekeeping experiences. Ask them if they are bonded, salary expectations and available hours. Provide them with a task list and ask them if there is anything on the list that would be a problem for them to complete. Ask them how many housekeepers will be coming into your home. Be clear, concise and courteous. Ask for a list of references.

Dear Reena, Can I substitute soy milk in recipes calling for regular milk? — Ben

Dear Ben, Yes, you can. Be sure to purchase unsweetened soy milk, so that you are not surprised by the overly sweet flavour. Not everyone likes the taste of soy milk, so be sure to experiment with a little amount before adding it to an entire recipe.

Dear Reena, When I clean my home, should I
vacuum before dusting, or dust before vacuuming? — Madi

Dear Madi, Dust first, that way you can vacuum the debris that settles after you dust.

Dear Reena, My vacuum is three years old, and it does not suck up dirt the way it used to. Do you know how to fix this? — Alec

Dear Alec, Research to see if your vacuum is still on warranty; you may be able to replace parts free of charge. Next check to make sure that nothing is clogging the hose. Check the filters, clean and replace them if necessary. Replace or empty the bag, if the bag is full, the vacuum will not work as well.

Dear Reena, A friend of mine referred me to
your website to ask my pressing question. I got blue pen on my suede shoes and have no idea how to get it out. They are low quality shoes, but I’d like to save them if I can. What do you recommend? — Lindsey

Dear Lindsey, The greatest risk in removing the
stain on suede is that the stain becomes larger, and permanent. Stains on suede can often be removed by gently rubbing them using fine sandpaper. Next, you may wish to purchase commercial suede cleaner and use it according to the directions on the container. If you choose to clean the stain yourself using household products, sprinkle the area with baking soda. Brush the nap back and forth with a water dampened nail brush.

Note: Every user assumes all risks of injury
or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first.

Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website: reena.ca. Ask a question or share a tip at reena.ca

-Reena Nerbas