Do this to clean dirty baseball caps

DEAR READERS: We all know how dirty and sweaty our favorite baseball caps can get. Here's how to clean them without losing the shape. Take these steps:

If the caps are wool (not vintage) or cotton, begin by testing them to see if they are colorfast. Dip a white cloth into a mixture of a mild laundry detergent and cool water, and dab this on the interior of the cap. If you do not see any dye from the cap on the white cloth, you can hand-wash them.

Wash with the above solution and rinse well by shaking out and patting dry.

You can purchase a cheap baseball form to place the hat over to help keep its shape.

If that band is really filthy, mix 1 tablespoon of mild hair shampoo with 1/2 cup of water. Scrub this onto the band with a toothbrush, rinse and air-dry.

DEAR READERS: If you need to freeze a cake, it is best to freeze without frosting or filling because it can make the cake soggy. Here's how to preserve the cake:

After it has cooled completely, wrap the cake in several layers of plastic. Then place it in a container so it does not get crushed. Be aware that cakes do not freeze totally solid. To thaw the cake, do not remove the wrapping right away. Let it thaw at room temperature, which could take an hour. Be aware unfrosted cakes freeze well for about three months, but frosted ones are OK for only one month.

DEAR HELOISE: We just purchased a flat-screen TV and have several computers. Can I use household cleaners to clean them?

— Linda in Ohio

DEAR LINDA: No! Never apply any cleaning solvents, sprays or abrasives because they will damage high-tech equipment. Instead, purchase a commercial high-tech cleaner and use a microfiber cloth to remove fingerprints and grime. Clean electronics frequently because a buildup of...