Consumer Corner

Here are some tips to save money. We all want to save money on the electricity bills, clothing, and other items. We want the extra cash that can come from trying new ideas.

• Unplug those kitchen “gadgets” that are not in use even though they may be turned off, they still are using electricity.

Tip: There are new “smart” power bars that can be purchased to help you. The “smart” bars automatically turn the power off when the electric gadget is charged or no longer in use.

• Are you a coupon saver then this is for you.

You can save $100 per week by letting “Coupon Queens” do the work. Just go on line to the coupon sharing sites. These gurus do the work for you by searching circulars ads and grocery store websites looking for latest deals. The coupons will be posted on-site and give you tips on how to maximize your coupons.

The sites: LiveFabulose.com and TheKrazyCouponLady.com. Good hunting.

• According to research the average American spends $650 per year on clothing. Want to save, then go on-line. Most retailers sell more marked down items on line. Almost all stores have websites, so check it out.

Tip: Turn those jeans inside out when doing laundry. The jeans will last longer.

Also purchase clothing with 1% to 3% spandex with cotton, wool, rayon, and polyester. Why? You will get longer wear out of the garment because the shape stays the same longer.

•Sending your child/ren or your family off with snacks. Here are some snacks that are considered healthy by the Consumer Reports on Health:

* Smartfood Reduced Fat – White Cheddar Popcorn

* Sun Chips Original

* Snyder’s Mini Pretzels

* Planter’s Salted Peanuts

* Fat Free Fig Newtons

* Austin Zoo Animal Crackers

Better for you and better for your health.

• Keep your plants healthy with a water bottle. The trick to this is very easy and not tricky at all. Fill an individual sized empty water bottle with water. Put the cap on and make sure the cap is on tight. Poke a hole in the cap using a scissor tip or a nail. Flip the bottle over and place in the soil. The water will drip out slowly – no more wilted plants.

• Enjoy the week. Hopefully the snowfalls are now over and your tulips and crocus will start to bloom!