photo by Gaetan Lee

DEAR SARA: I heard that a plastic laundry basket could be used as a cheap bassinet/crib for a baby. What are your thoughts on this? — Lori, e-mail

DEAR LORI: I’m not a medical expert, but I wouldn’t use it. I realize many people used to let their babies sleep in dresser drawers, but just because you can do these things doesn’t mean you should. I’m fearful of an increased risk of SIDS or suffocation with the amount of cushioning you need to use to make it comfortable for a baby. And laundry baskets have small holes and sharp edges that could hurt a baby if he or she is left unattended. If parents are experiencing tough times and can’t afford a crib, they should put the word out to family and friends or look into social services that can help point them in the right direction.

You can, however, use a laundry basket in the bathtub for an older baby that’s too big for the sink but too small for the tub. The laundry basket allows water to flow through the holes but offers added support for sitting and leaning. It makes baths more manageable for parents, and it’s a simple way for a baby to learn to sit while bathing. The baby has the sides to hold onto, and toys don’t float far away. You can place a bath cushion/sponge to prevent slipping. It’s a good option during those months when the child is squirming and wiggling in the tub. While I usually hopped in the tub with my kids at that age, it was nice to sometimes use the basket so I wasn’t holding a slippery baby with one hand and trying to reach for bath supplies with the other.

DEAR SARA: I have a collection of baskets. I’ve feather-dusted them through the years, but I’ve never cleaned them. How would I wash them? — Kim, e-mail

DEAR KIM: Prior to washing, try using your vacuum with its brush attachment to safely remove any dust. Compressed air will work, too. Many baskets have a sealant, so you can use a nonabrasive cloth, such as a section of a cloth diaper. Dampen it with water and blot the basket. You can also lightly mist a natural basket and use a vegetable scrub brush or toothbrush to remove accumulated dirt and dust. I don’t suggest immersing baskets in water because they could lose their shape or rot, but you can wash them with water and a soft-bristled brush, towel dry by blotting and let dry thoroughly outside on a hot, sunny day. Vinegar and water may be used, too.

DEAR SARA: I’m looking for a hobby that isn’t expensive. If possible, I’d like it to be something that a couple can enjoy together. I used to do all sorts of crafts, but I had tons of unfinished projects, too. I can’t afford to invest much money into a hobby that might not hold my interest. I’m an older, married woman, and, while I’m in good shape, please don’t suggest rollerblading. I want something other than going to garage and craft sales. Thank you. — Peggy, via e-mail

DEAR PEGGY: Have you tried letterboxing? If you have grandkids, it’s a hobby you can share with them, too. It’s a combination of treasure hunting and adventure. Letterboxers hide a small, weatherproof box in a public area and leave clues for others to find the box. The box contains a small book, rubber stamp and other small treasures. You would have your own logbook and stamp. You leave your stamp in the found logbook and use the stamp in the found box to stamp your own logbook. For more information, visit www.letterboxing.org and www.atlasquest.com. This hobby is inexpensive. Plus, you can get exercise and have your own logbook as a conversation piece. Most letterboxers have unique custom stamps and leave a note in the box for the next person to find. You can start out by searching boxes before you create and leave clues for a box to be discovered by others.

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