4/17/12

Avoid the temptation to "top off" at the gas pump. When filling up, allow the machine to shut off automatically when it's full -- you'll hear a click, and the nozzle will stop pumping gas. Adding more gas wastes money because gasoline is often fed back into the tank via a vapor-recovery system, which prevents gas from escaping. So that extra bit isn't going to get your car any farther down the road. When the tank's full, stop filling up.

4/16/12

Many of us fill bags with unwanted clothes and drop them off at Goodwill as a way to help the charity, clean out the closets and feel good. While we may forgo the receipt for tax-deduction purposes because it can be laborious itemizing every single item donated, consider getting a receipt when donating larger items. Furniture, artwork and major electronics all retain value when donated, so research the estimated retail value and place a sticky note on each item you donate. You'll be able to deduct around 30 percent of that value from your taxes.

4/15/12

Many stores are selling frying pans, kitchen utensils and stainless steel knives that claim to be dishwasher safe. But read the fine print: Most are dishwasher safe only if you follow complex steps about what wash cycles you can use. Extend the life of these kitchen items by washing them by hand. And leave your everyday dishes, glasses and cutlery for the dishwasher to take care of.