DEAR HELOISE: I wanted to write in regarding the letter from Emillie Webb. I have been married to a plumber for 48 years. He has been in the business over 50 years, and we all know better than to pour grease or oil down the sink. When pouring boiling water down the sink (such as when draining spaghetti), always let the cold water run while draining and for a minute or so after. Hope this helps!

• Cindy, in Covington, Louisiana

Cindy, here at Heloise Central, we’ve been warning people about clogging their drain with oil and grease for many years. Still, we get letters from readers who pour grease down their drains, then wonder why the hot water didn’t get rid of the grease. Thank you for your letter.

By the way, I married a plumber, too, and he says the same thing as your husband.

• Heloise

DEAR HELOISE: I just had some work done in my kitchen, and the plumber said not to pour boiling water down your drain because it could cause the plastic pipes to warp and start to leak. You should run cold water down the drain first, then pour out the boiling water.

Karen B.,

in Ballston Spa, New York

DEAR HELOISE: The best way to clean a luxury vinyl floor is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Mine says specifically not to use vinegar or any acidic product. It says to only use Ph-neutral products and distilled water. Tap water and non-Ph-balanced products can harm the surface.

• K.M.C.

DEAR HELOISE: I find that spraying vinegar into empty and dry garbage containers really helps with bad odors.

• John T., via email

DEAR HELOISE: Rick T., in Nipoma, California, said in your column that in his state, “every drop of water must be saved.” If this is true, then why are there over 900 water-gobbling golf courses open for business in California? Some are open for just about 365 days a year. Sure, the golf courses sometimes used nonpotable water, but overall their water usage is massive.

• Charlie M., via email

DEAR HELOISE: Before putting a new carton of eggs in the refrigerator, I write the date on the end of the carton. This makes it quick and easy to see which eggs are older.

• Mary, in Minnesota

DEAR HELOISE: When moving into a new house or apartment, I put extension cords into every outlet that may wind up behind a dresser, armoire, chest, or any other large piece of furniture.

• Abraham H., in Canoga Park, California

Heloise@Heloise.com