Foam-rubber applicators are OK for painting, but are far better for putting on stain. Wood-handle foam applicators are inexpensive handy tools for smaller jobs. Their low cost allows one-time use, without guilt. But while they are great for staining, their extremely limited sizes (usually up to only a few inches in width), make them a poor choice for big jobs like staining a deck, siding or wall paneling. For these projects, rags or sprayers usually are the applicators of choice. However, there is a way to employ the best of all worlds. Indeed, to maintain the advantage of a foam applicator -- only on a much larger scale -- look into buying an oversized sponge. Hardware stores and home centers have many sizes and many textures with varying densities. Pick one that suits your project. And that's the On The House tip for today.