HELOISE: Hints can help with car rentals

Dear Readers: Renting a car can be an easy process, but if you’re not careful, it can result in an unpleasant and expensive experience. Here are some helpful hints to keep in mind:

When you rent a car, auto experts say to fill up the gas tank before you return it. Otherwise, you will have to pay a high per-gallon fee. Save money and top off before turning it in.

Because of high gas prices, car renters want more fuel-efficient vehicles. So, make your reservation early to be sure you get the vehicle you want.

If you are thinking about renting a car, shop around. Compare prices at the airport to local rental spots. Prices may vary quite a bit. Look for specials or online deals to get a better price.

Heloise

Dear Heloise: I was tired of replacing remote controls after they disappeared. So, now I paint part of each remote with bright-color nail polish, or I wrap colorful tape around them. I keep a decorative basket in the living room or den and try to put the remotes in there when not watching TV.

Angie, via e-mail

Great idea, Angie! This would work unless, like one of my assistants, you have a Great Dane that buried the remote in the back yard!

Heloise

Dear Heloise: Here’s how I keep my trash cans clean and smelling fresh: After cleaning the inside trash can, I put a roll of new, heavy-duty garbage bags into the bottom. Then I place used fabric-softener sheets into the bottom of the outside garbage can and trash compactor. This will help to cover the bad smells. Problem solved.

Sharon Anne in Texas

Dear Heloise: To freshen pillows and bedding, put them in the dryer on “air only” or “fluff.” Then add a relaxing fragrance: Pour a couple of drops of lavender or essential oil onto a paper towel and toss it in with the pillows or bedding. This works great in between weekly washing.

Sheryl, via fax

Dear Readers: With winter approaching and people spending more time indoors, now is the perfect time to change the batteries in smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors. Take a few minutes to do this simple chore.

It’s essential for the safety of your family and your home.

Heloise

Send a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, fax it to 210-HELOISE or e-mail it to Heloise@Heloise.com.

King Features Syndicate