Dear Readers: Who has a MESSY REFRIGERATOR? It’s time to get organized. Take everything out and put it on the counter. Now you can see what you have. Turn back to the fridge; it’s time for a deep clean.

Spray the shelving, drawers and walls with a solution of 4 tablespoons of baking soda mixed with water. Wipe down with a clean cloth. Get in all the tight places — cotton swabs may come in handy. Wipe dry with paper towels.

Throw away anything you don’t need or recognize (ha-ha — anything fuzzy). Combine those two open jars of pickles.

Now to restock. Avoid overstocking the fridge; the cold air needs to circulate. Keep milk and juices up front for easy access. Store tiny fruits like strawberries in a basket inside the fridge. — Heloise

P.S. Where is the best place to store eggs? According to the American Egg Board (www.incredibleegg.org), keep eggs in their original container on a shelf in the fridge, not in the door. This keeps them insulated and protects them from cracking and absorbing other flavors.

LEVERAGING YOUR BAKING

Dear Heloise: My hint, which I have done for years: When stirring cookie dough, etc., I put the bowl in my sink, because with the leverage from being lower than my countertop, it makes it easier to stir with not so much effort.

An aside: If I’m adding something and it spills over the side of the bowl, it is easier to clean up. — Sue W., via email

BLOOD BEGONE

Dear Heloise: One effective way to treat bloodstains (even dried ones) is to saturate the stain with 3% hydrogen peroxide solution. It may require a couple of applications. When the stain is gone, wash in cold water to remove the peroxide. — Judy P., Boerne, Texas

Judy, you’re on to one of my favorite low-cost cleaners! One caveat: Hydrogen peroxide may discolor fabrics; test in a hidden area first.

I’ve compiled a collection of my best clothing stain-busting hints and helps into a handy pamphlet. Would you like to receive one? It’s easy! Send a stamped (70 cents), self-addressed, long envelope, along with $5, to: Heloise/Stain Guide, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001.