Around the house

* Clean piano keys quickly. Apply toothpaste to a damp cloth and rub soil from keys. Wipe off residue and buff with a dry, soft cloth.

* Prevent spatters when using an electric mixer. Place a paper plate -- with a hole cut into the center -- over the beaters before mixing.

* Clean heavily soiled pots and pans. Turn pans bottom side up and cover with cloth or paper towel soaked with 1/2 -cup ammonia. Place pans in a large plastic bag and secure tightly. Let sit overnight and scour with soap pad the next day.

* Measure area before buying a room-size rug. Spread newspapers or sheets folded to right dimensions on floor to help determine placement.

In the garden

* Try dusting houseplants with a feather duster; polish leaves with a solution of half milk and water.