Dear Heloise: I read your column in the Patriot-News and have seen several letters suggesting that fabric softener sheets can be used to clean a dryer’s lint screen. I suggest that folks check the owner’s manual for their dryer.

I checked mine and found that my dryer’s manufacturer does not recommend this because these sheets (new or used) can leave residue on the lint screen and cause clogging.

Their suggestion was a dry finger or one that is slightly moistened with water. Thanks for your attention to this problem. Have a great day. — Betsy Leister, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania

DISPOSING PILLS IN COFFEE

Dear Heloise: Another answer to pill disposal comes from my pharmacist — coffee grounds.

Just put your unusable pills in your wet, used coffee grounds. It will dissolve the pills, and then they can be thrown in the garbage. — Carolyn, Baton Rouge, Louisiana

REHEATING GRAINS

Dear Heloise: I’ve heard complaints from people who say that microwaving leftover rice or pasta dries it out.

I add a dash or two of water to the bowl, cover it, then heat it up. The steam revives the food.

Similarly, to revive bread, wet a paper towel and wring the excess water. Then wrap it around the bread and seal it inside a plastic bag, removing any excess air for expansion.

Heat for 20 seconds or less. — Mark Korba, via email

JEWELRY ORGANIZATION

Dear Heloise: Regarding jewelry organizers, I use a flat plastic fishing tackle box for earrings. The dividers can be moved to accommodate bigger earrings and can be organized by color. I also use a small one for travel. Everything stays in place. — Connie C., Melrose, Wisconsin