Dear Heloise: I noted a recent hint to use different colored keys to reduce confusion when looking for a specific key. I would like to add that I have used what are called “key caps,” which come in a wide variety of colors. Some are made to just surround the key head, while others cover the entire (or most of) key head. Thanks for all your efforts on our behalf. — John D. Mitchell, in Richardson, Texas

LIGHT SHOWER CURTAINS

Dear Heloise: After taking showers in other peoples’ homes and realizing how dark it can be in there, I would like to suggest using a light-colored lacy shower curtain and a clear liner. I’ve been using both for years. — P.  Genschow, via email

FIRE ANT BITES

Dear Heloise: If fire ants bite you, do this: Immediately dip the end of a cotton swab in itching cream and apply it to the bite. Instant relief! — Gloria Gauntt, via email

CLEANING PLASTIC STRAWS

Dear Heloise: D.M., in Texas, was questioning how to clean the inside of drinking straws. They make special brushes for this purpose. I have them for my heavy plastic straws that you mentioned. They work great. You can type in “how to clean drinking straws,” and there are several different options you can order. — C.L., in Iowa

DEALING WITH COCKROACHES

Dear Heloise: Years ago, I rented an apartment in a very old house in Denver (where the climate is very dry) that had cockroaches. I was able to keep them under control by sprinkling scouring powder around the faucets and drains. My understanding was that they would track through the powder; then when they returned to their home inside the walls of my old house, they would lick their little feet and, well, die.

I read your column in the Omaha World-Herald. — Sally Lansdale, via email

PET PAL

Dear Heloise: This is my best friend, Beckham. I was looking for a furry companion and spent two days at multiple locations. Then I met Beckham. His owner passed away, and the family didn’t want to keep him. They took him to the kennel. He was 6 years old, and everyone wanted a puppy or a young dog. So, he was there for six months, and no one wanted him.

He’d lost substantial weight because he quit eating. He was on antidepressants. I took him home. He needed several surgeries to repair torn ACLs. He’s been with me now for almost three years. It took him months to start to understand that someone loved him. Today he is one happy guy who loves his new home. Here he is with his close friend, Gregory. — Ed Suszkowski, via email

Readers, to see Beckham and our other Pet Pals, go to Heloise.com and click on “Pet of the Week.”

Do you have a furry friend to share with our readers? Send a photo and a brief description to Heloise@Heloise.com. — Heloise

(Send a money-saving or time-saving hint to Heloise@Heloise.com. I can’t answer your letter personally but will use the best hints received in my column.)