ReadyMade: Instructions for everyday life

BATHROOM HINTS

IN THE CLEAR:

Buff a thin layer of shaving cream onto the bathroom mirror to prevent it from steaming up while you bathe. The glass won't look any different, but it will stay fog-free.

BRUSH IT OFF:
Polish the metal fixtures around your home with non-gel toothpaste to help keep them clean, sparkly, and tarnish-free.

WINNING STREAK:
Fill a spray bottle with two teaspoons of white vinegar and a quart of warm water for a squeaky-clean alternative to chemically enhanced glass cleaner. Wipe it off with newspaper for a sleek finish every time.

COSMETIC LIFT:
To quickly rid her bathroom of counter clutter, Grace Hawthorne throws toothpaste tubes, deodorant sticks, and lotion bottles into a deep display-worthy bowl. It's the perfect no-clean crime when you're tidying up for guests.

COLD STORAGE:
Contributor Lorna Reed suggests placing a bucket in the shower to collect the cold water you waste while waiting for it to heat up. You could save as much as five gallons-which you can use to hydrate houseplants.

KEEP IT CLEAN:
To keep her earrings tangle-free, Ramona Nourizad tapes pieces of dental floss across the inside of a medicine cabinet and dangles her gems from the durable nylon threads.

WELL HEALED:
Kira Deutch suggests storing toiletries in a shoe organizer that hangs from the back of a bathroom door.

BUFF BODY:
If your mirror looks a little dingy, use a soft rag to apply a dab of metal polish to remove scratches from the surface.