Q: How can I get rid of the sticky feeling on my kitchen cabinets around the knobs and handles?
A: Over the years, grease and dirt will build up on kitchen cabinets. This can be noticeable, especially around the handles and pulls, and is difficult, if not impossible, to remove. But it’s worth a try.
First, try to determine if the cabinet’s finish is lacquer, shellac, varnish or sealer. Older finishes tend to be varnish or shellac and can be damaged by water. With those finishes, it may be best to use a commercial degreaser or cleaner containing ammonia. (To know for sure, remove a door or drawer and take it to a paint store or refinishing shop for an opinion. They may also recommend a cleaner for the finish.)
Generally, to clean finished wood, add 1 cup of mild detergent (such as Dawn dish soap) and 6 tablespoons of ammonia to 1 gallon of warm water. Wash the surfaces and dry immediately.
If that doesn’t clean completely, apply the solution to the cupboard surfaces and let set for 3 minutes to soften the grease. (One way to do that is to saturate paper toweling with the solution and lay it on the surface.) Remove it, then scrub the area with a nonabrasive pad, rubbing with the wood’s grain. Dry immediately.
Cleaning cabinets may not fully restore them. The areas around the handles may be damaged and worn as well as dirty. If that’s the case, you’ll probably have to refinish or paint the cupboards to eliminate the worn spots.
HOW TO FREEZE CORN
Q: Can I freeze corn in husks? I always thought corn had to blanched before freezing, but now people say you can freeze it without blanching, just by keeping the ears in the husks. Is this true?
A: Yes. Freezing unblanched corn in husks is the quickest method of preserving it.
-Harvest the corn; do not husk. Place the ears on cooking sheets or just put them in the freezer loose and in a single layer. Freeze for 48 hours.
-Bag the corn in a large, plastic food-safe bag.
-Return to freezer. Remove ears as needed. Eat within 4 months.
From “Preserving Food at Home,” by Janet Chadwick
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