Dear Heloise: I’ve been reading your column all my life. (I’m 72.) Thanks for all the great tips!

I wanted to clarify something that Sarah P., from Bakersfield, California, asked about using ceiling fans 24/7. Ceiling fans, or really all fans, do not cool the air. They cool our bodies by evaporating the perspiration from our skin. So, if you are not actually in the room with the fan, there’s no point in running it. The temperature of the room will not drop. — Paula M., via email

Paula, ceiling fans can also lower utility bills by keeping us cool while using less energy than air conditioning. — Heloise

BLEACHING

OUR TEETH

Dear Heloise: Is it harmful to bleach teeth with over-the-counter products? Will the bleaching products harm my enamel? — Jill H., in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Jill, bleaching products with a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide can soften the enamel temporarily. Overuse or misuse of whitening agents can cause tooth sensitivity and enamel erosion. Abrasive whiting toothpaste can also do the same over time.

The best way to whiten your teeth is usually done by a dentist who can carefully monitor the whitening process. However, if you use an over-the-counter whitening agent, follow the directions to the letter. Don’t eat or drink anything after you’ve bleached your teeth.

Bleaching before going to bed is probably the best time to use a whitening product, but do not sleep with whitening strips in your mouth. After bleaching your teeth thoroughly, rinse your mouth out with water. — Heloise

KEEPING

CELERY FRESH

Dear Heloise: A bunch of celery will keep for much longer if you remove it from the plastic bag and wrap it in aluminum foil. I cut a piece about twice as long as the bunch and wrap it lengthwise, and it lasts for a few weeks this way. — Stacy T., via email

PESKY ELBOWS

Dear Heloise: I read your column in our local newspaper. I saw a letter from Ruth, in Minnesota, asking what she should use for her dark elbows. I had one elbow that was very dark, and nothing I used lightened it. After my doctor did blood tests, I realized this was caused by a niacin deficiency. When I started B complex supplements, my elbow lightened.

I would advise Ruth to do a micronutrient test to see if her dark elbows could be a sign of something more serious. — Lisa, in Florida

Lisa, nearly every unusual thing that occurs on the body should be seen by a doctor. Things such as a mole that suddenly pops up, a discoloration of skin, or a lump that starts to grow need attention. It might be harmless, but if it’s not, then it’s best to get it seen as soon as possible by a professional. — Heloise