Dear Heloise: When hanging up pictures, it is best to drill a pilot hole into the plaster for the nail before hammering it in. If one does not drill a hole, the plaster surface will splinter, creating patch work if the picture is to be moved or taken down in the future. — Ray, via email

THE ARMY WAY

Dear Heloise: I spent nearly 25 years in the Army, and one of the first things you learn in basic training is how to make a bunk with two flat sheets. The Army doesn’t use fitted sheets for mattresses.

To make your bed the Army way, you take a flat sheet and place it even with the foot of the bed. The excess sheet goes at the head of the bed, and you tuck it under the mattress and do hospital corners. The top sheet is done the opposite way so that the sheet is even with the head of the bed and the excess is tucked in at the foot of the bed.

This method can be used on any size bed using two flat sheets, eliminating the need for a fitted sheet. — Joyce Williams, in North Little Rock, Arkanasas

SHOWER SAFETY

Dear Heloise: When I get ready to take a shower when I’m alone, I place a towel on the closed toilet seat with some of it hanging over the edge. I lay my cellphone on the towel. If I fall getting out of the shower, I can just pull the towel down with my cellphone on it to call for help. I enjoy your column every day along with my breakfast. — Frances, via email

Send a money-saving or time-saving hint to Heloise@Heloise.com.