I sprayed our side of our neighbour’s new fence with Cuprinol Sprayable Fence Treatment and the wind blew it on to his sandstone patio, which now has a fine covering of brown. I have jet-washed and scrubbed it to no avail. Help!

It’s a shame it wasn’t hosed off while still wet, but no worries – the technical guys at Cuprinol say, because it’s a water-based product, you should still be able to remove it. Don those wellies and rubber gloves, fill a bucket with very hot soapy water – that’s the key here – and give the area a really good scrub with a stiff yard brush. Rinse thoroughly afterwards. Good luck!

I have a rose pendant carved from ivory, which belonged to my grandmother. She died in 1946 and I don’t think it has been worn since. How do I clean the intricate carving without damaging it?

Use tepid water to which you’ve added a drop of washing-up liquid. Don’t immerse the pendant for too long – ivory is semi-porous and can absorb moisture. With the help of a baby’s toothbrush, gently remove the trapped dirt, then immediately rinse and dry. To keep in good condition, dust with a soft cloth and occasionally apply a light film of almond oil. If this doesn’t work, or the pendant is valuable, consult an expert at the British Antique Dealers’ Association (020-7589 4128; www.bada.org). Finally, always apply your make-up, perfume and hairspray before putting on the pendant, otherwise it can stain the ivory. And make sure you store it away from direct heat and strong sunlight, which will bleach it.

While cycling, my cotton skirt got caught in the chain and smeared with black grease. I’ve soaked it in stain remover twice, but there are some marks that just won’t budge. Do you have any suggestions?

Try either Dr Beckmann Stain Devils for Grease, Lubricant & Paint, £1.79 (from Asda, Morrisons and Sainsbury’s or online at www.dr-beckmann.co.uk), or White Wizard, £4.99 for 283g, from Lakeland (01539 488100; www.lakeland.co.uk). Then wash your skirt as normal, using a biological detergent. Repeat if necessary.

aggie.mackenzie@thetimes.co.uk

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