I found this book (
Good Housekeeping's Guide for Young Homemakers)(1966) last summer because it's always fun to see what people wanted to know in the "past." This is quite a fun read!
I might be sharing more than just this excerpt in the future! :)
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"Here are a few of the simpler problems women complain about, followed by trouble-shooting measures. Have you ever wondered:
Why the refrigerator or freezer door is suddenly so hard to open? The last time you closed it, you probably slammed it just hard enough to create a partial vacuum.
Why a sewing machine jams or tangles on the first few stitches?
This happens when you don't start properly. Begin sewing with the needle at its highest point, and hold the thread ends to the back for the first stitch or two. Don't push or pull the fabric.
Why a vacuum cleaner won't pick up dirt?
the brush is worn, or packed with dirt and threads, or, more likely, the cleaner is just too full of dirt. The efficiency of and vacuum cleaner drops way down when the bag is more than half full.
Why the toast sometimes just won't toast.
If you have a good toaster, this happens because of low voltage. Within your house or in your area, there just isn't enough power, especially during peak use, as at breakfast time. Turn off some lights or other appliances and it may work.
How to cut out unnecessary repair bills?
First, of course, never buy from a dealer who cannot direct you to an authorized parts and service agency. Buy only when you have assurance that good service will be available when you need it; and see to it that expert installation gets you off to a good start.
Never call before you check the instruction book.
After you've read it (and some of them are mighty heavy going) keep it handy - always. Along with the facts you must know to get the most from your machine, there's a list of points to check before you call for help. The melting freezer that's simply unplugged, the oven that won't turn on because the clock was flipped from "manual" to "automatic" in cleaning - these things can happen.
Don't fight an appliance.
It doesn't pay. People have been known to kick, shake, punch, and carve up appliances - with provocation, perhaps. But the records show that some homes call for more than average service attention, and rough handling is suspected. Appliances are not particularly delicate, but they do contain parts that work better and longer with reasonably respectful care. It is worthwhile to be especially gentle when you are removing, cleaning and replacing parts, turning dials and switches, opening and closing doors and lids.
