Dear Heloise: Both my wife and I are in our 80s, so I’ve created a detailed list of things that need to get done once we pass. My list includes all of my insurances (home, earthquake, car, life, etc.) with names and phone numbers. In my list, I also include my latest will along with things like my checking and savings account numbers. In addition, I have my social security number and the phone numbers needed to contact them to stop payments.

My sons will have to pay our state and federal taxes, so I have my accountant’s number available. Included are the names and numbers of all my home expenses, such as the housekeeper, gardener and pool man, along with the reverse mortgage company. Plus, my list includes all my doctors, and I even have my list of passwords to get into my computer and cellphone.

I read your column every day and find the items very useful. Keep them coming! — Howard Zeff, in Mission Viejo, California

OPENING PLASTIC CAPS

Dear Heloise: I think I probably read this hint in your column before, but it is worth repeating:

I was trying to twist the smooth, plastic cap off a small bottle and just couldn’t open it. I finally grabbed a rubber band and wrapped it around the lid, and I was immediately able to grip it and twist it off! — Debra V., via email

COLD BUTTER PATS

Dear Heloise: I had to smile when I read the hint about holding refrigerated pats of butter in your hand to soften them. I learned this (as well as many other things) at our church lunches. Others assumed that I was praying! — Jo, in Little Rock, Arkansas

DAILY PILL BOX REUSE

Dear Heloise: I have found that a daily pill box is perfect for packing earrings for travel. Plastic Sunday-Saturday boxes are very inexpensive at the dollar store. Each compartment holds a pair of small or medium earrings, and larger earrings can be split up. They never get tangled or lost!

I read your column in the San Antonio Express-News and always learn something new. — Marylee F., in Texas

CORNED BEEF AND CABBAGE

Dear Heloise: I have a great tip for corned beef and cabbage, which is not one of my favorites. It always seems flat, even with the spices that come with the meat. So, I put a box of beef broth in with the water and made sure to completely cover the meat and vegetables. It was really great. My husband and I smacked our lips. Try it; you’ll love it! — A Devoted Reader in Ohio

MAKEUP BRUSHES

Dear Heloise: I’ve noticed that my makeup brushes are looking scary. Help! — Sarah T., in Kentucky

Sarah, no worries! We should all clean our powder brushes about once per week and our brushes for liquid applications ideally every day to keep bacteria away. The best cleanser? Baby shampoo! Here we go:

— Wet the bristles under a bit of running water. Don’t run the water over the handle; the water will seep inside and loosen the glue.

— Work the shampoo into the brush’s bristles.

— Rinse again, avoiding the handle. Squeeze excess water out.

— Lay flat on a towel to dry overnight. — 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.)