Santa Claus was often pictured in a mauve or blue suit before 1930. Any Santa toy, postcard or decoration with Santa in a suit that’s not red is worth extra money.

A freezer can kill moths, silverfish or mold, but it must be a freezer that goes to -4 degrees Fahrenheit. Most refrigerator freezers cannot be set that low. Roll or fold the infested fabric and put it in a heavy, clear freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag before you seal it with duct tape (most other tapes will become loose if frozen). Put the package into the freezer for at least 48 hours. Don’t peek. Remove it and allow it to thaw completely before you open it. Don’t worry about moisture on the outside of the package. Remove the fabric, then vacuum it inside and out to remove dead pests and dirt.

If you find mold on your furniture, wipe the spot with a diluted solution of bleach and warm water—one tablespoon bleach to a quart of water. It should kill the mold.

Never use very hot or very cold water to clean glass figurines. Use dishwashing liquid, a soft toothbrush and warm water. Rinse, then dry with a terrycloth towel.

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