Dear Martha: I just bought nine porcelain plates that included ribbons. How should I hang and arrange them on my walls?

Answer: Decorative plates often come with ribbons. But for very rare or good plates, I suggest you use plate hangers specifically designed for the job. You'll find many kinds if you search the Internet or your local hardware store. The hangers come in various sizes, designs and finishes for different types of plates. Once the plates are hung, you will see only four little decorative feet, but they're very strong. I've never lost a plate when I've hung them this way.

As for the arrangement, if you have nine plates, it would be simple and beautiful to do three rows of three. You could also hang four plates in one row and five underneath. (For step-by-step instructions, go to www.marthastewart.com/article/hanging-plates- how-to.)

Dear Martha: I stored clothes near the wall of my cedar closet, and now they have a brownish cast. Can they be saved?

Answer: Cedar, like many woods, emits oils that interact with fabric and can stain it. Clothing should never be placed directly on or near unfinished wood. Wrap clothes in canvas bags or clean cotton sheets; avoid plastic for long-term storage, as it traps moisture and can lead to mildew growth.

To remove the stains, soak washable cotton and linen items in oxygen bleach. Then launder the clothes as usual. Dry-cleaning is safest for woolens and silks.

Dear Martha: I just bought a set of pots. While I was deep- frying, the oil spattered, which turned the outside of the pan brown. Can I remove this?

Answer: Try a little oven cleaner, preferably a nontoxic kind. Brush the cleaner onto a small area first to see if it removes the spots. Don't scrub the exterior with anything abrasive. It's important not to leave the oil or it will get blacker every time you cook with the pan and will never come off.

Dear Martha: Which kind of de-icer works best?

Answer: De-icers are used before a storm to prevent ice from forming on driveways and sidewalks, and afterward to soften accumulated ice and make it easier to remove with a shovel. Most have some adverse effects on the environment because they contain chemicals that can get into groundwater, lakes and streams.

The greenest solution is to shovel early and often to prevent ice accumulation. To improve traction, you may need to scatter sand, cat litter, sawdust or another gritty material over walkways and driveways occasionally. Be sure to sweep up the substance afterward so it won't be tracked onto your clean floors or, eventually, clog local sewer systems.