Yes, the curtains that actually do the work :) I've used all sorts, clear and colored, from el cheapos that barely reached from rod to tub, to deluxe that made my wallet gasp. Although I've forgotten all the chemical names, that covers most if not all of the common plastic shower curtains. I'm told that towels in the washer help 'scrub' the plastic, dunno about that, but I put a couple towels in anyway. Water temp doesn't seem to matter (or else today's soaps/detergents are better). The vinegar in the rinse is mainly to 'cut' the soap scum... that is, it helps the soap disperse into the rinse water instead of clinging to the plastic. A side-note about vinegar: seamstresses use it to "set" creases in polyester and poly-blend fabrics. Another dunno, but I wonder if it helps relax the plastic when in the dryer. Set the dryer to "warm" and give it a few minutes. If the creases remain after being hung for day, I'd take the curtain back and complain ...

I had an antiqu book business for a very short while, until I got tired of situations like that! But I read this when researching: fill the bottom of a canister large enough to hold the book with fresh coffee grounds. Put something on top of that for the book to sit on, so that the air can circulate around it. Wrap the book loosely in paper toweling. Close the thing up and let it sit there a few weeks. Other way a friend used is she set it in front of one of those "Sharper Image" catalog ionizer air purifiers for a couple weeks and it took the smell right out. All old books possibly contain bookmites etc., and I don't let any come into my library without first wrapping them tighting in plastic or foil (or putting in a freezer baggie) and keeping them in my freezer for at least several weeks. This is supposed to kill the bugs and any eggs. Also, get some tea tree oil at the natural food place, mix it in some water (it has a very strong sell) wet a rag with it, wring it out, and wipe down the book very thoroughly inside and outside of the covers. Of course lots and lots of sun is very good too though may not be good for the book if it is in falling apart condition.

I would agree with your logic regarding the difference in our numbers on the 'High' spin of 900 vs 1200. Too much difference between 900 and 1400, and yes 900 doesn't seem all that high. Hopefully the tech will have answer. Interesting point on the "Kill-A-Watt" box. Will give it some thought. Your observation and report on the 'Comforters' cycle is impressive! I've observed it only twice and didn't recall the step-by-step sequence. I'm sure it will come with time. I washed a queen-sized mattress pad, not a comforter. How large of a comforter do you wash? I don't recall the dimensions, but Miele had given them for comforters. I thought it to be the size of a double bed, not queen which is what we have. I had the same issue with the machine starting, adding a small amount of water, then advancing to 'pause.' This happened about 4-5 times before the cycle eventually started without stopping. The point you brought out about the 'part that stays in the center isn't exposed to as much g-force' really makes sense. Something I hadn't previously given any thought to. At the end of my cycle, I did put it through a spin/drain just as you do. From here on out, I will first rearrange the mattress pad...thanks! :) We have observed the spring loaded door at the back of the main wash compartment. I believe dispenser drawer pops out during the water intake. Is this a normal action? At times the door can be pushed back in, at others not. Does your dispenser drawer react in this same manner by popping out about 1/8"? I've read other good reviews about the Sears laundry powder. I know powder is recommended over liquid. I myself find liquid too sticky. Is your non-chlorine bleach a powder? I also use Oxi-Clean with favorable results, sometimes adding it to the prewash...or heavily soiled I believe it's called. Previously you had asked if I got cycle descriptions from Miele. The answer is no. I asked if there was anything documented in which would describe each cycle. Same answer, 'no.' What I was told as far as amounts of water, cycles which lend more to cottons will use less water as they can take more agressive tumbling action, and those which would fall under a category of more delicate or light fabric would use more water, as water provides more cushioning for the clothing. We now have an appointment for the Miele tech to come out on Friday and check out our machine. Want to make sure the pause issues we've been having are checked out. Also, 'door blocked' fault has come up 3 times in the first 10 days so want that checked out as well. I am told the cool down cycle time can be incresed as well. Sometimes I find the clothing to be ever so slightly damp, and thought added a little longer cooldown could rectify that issue. Buying a new washer or dryer is sooo time consuming. I've literally spent hours observing these cycles (& calling customer service)...and Miele was our third set after returning both Whirlpool Duet and Electrolux! ;) Will let you know what we find out. Again, thanks for taking the time to enlighten us! :) AN ADDED NOTE: We are interested in observing an actual demonstration on the washer/dryer. I've contacted one of the showrooms and was told they do conduct them. I feel any tips or information learned is well worth it. Our Garmin tells us it's about 67 miles from home...a nice drive on a sunny spring day.

Try these two links: http://www.ehow.com/how_13081_preserve-newspaper-clippings.html http://ask.yahoo.com/20011008.html I seem to recall being told you could soak the clippings in something to preserve them, but can't recall what--why am I thinking milk? Anyway, good luck. Hope one of the articles helps you.