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Hints from Heloise — The rules of recycling

Dear Readers: RECYCLING. We all should do it, but do you know what goes in the recycling bin and what doesn’t? Here’s the lowdown:

In the bin: steel, tin and aluminum cans, plastic bottles, brown paper bags, newspapers, magazines, cardboard juice containers and flattened boxes. Paper should be clean and dry, and lids should be removed from bottles.

Out: Plastic bags, foam cups, medical (needles, lancets, etc.) or hazardous waste.

These are guidelines; rules will vary whether a private company picks up your recycling or your city or township does it. Check with your local government’s 311 call center. — Heloise

TECH TUESDAY

Dear Readers: Two-factor authentication — what is it? Online security is on everyone’s minds these days. Two factor authentication can be as simple as your financial institution requiring you to use your bankcard and a PIN to gain access to your account at the ATM.

Or, have you ever logged into an account online after not using it for a long while? The website may text you a code to enter into the site along with your password. It’s an extra layer of protection. — Heloise

NEVER EVER

Dear Heloise: My electric company sent out a flyer with a list of things it will NEVER do.

Here is the list. It will:

— NEVER call me and threaten to cut off my service.

— NEVER call and demand payment and my banking information.

— NEVER tell me to pay my bill with gift cards.

— NEVER show up and go inside my home without prior notification.

The company advises making a police report if any of these situations arise, and then calling it to make a report. — Ginny P. in Indiana

Ginny, great information! Readers, never be intimidated. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. — Heloise

TRIED AND TRUE

Dear Heloise: We have been using vinegar in our dishwasher to help the glassware come out sparkling clean. Just 1/2 cup or so poured inside before starting and no hazy glassware! Is this safe to do? Assuming so, what is the best kind of vinegar to use?

We enjoy your column in the Orange County (Calif.) Register! — Bob in Huntington Beach, Calif.

Bob, I’m going home — you’re in charge now! You are right on the money. A couple of glugs of white or apple cider vinegar in the dishwasher can help keep glassware sparkling clean and will keep the dishwasher hoses and drain smelling fresh.

In fact, vinegar is a workhorse in the home. Safe, cheap and readily available, I’ve reached for it time and time again. I’ve compiled my favorite vinegar hints, helps and recipes into a handy pamphlet. Would you like to receive one? It’s easy! Visit www.Heloise.com to order, or send a long, stamped (70 cents), self-addressed envelope, together with $5, to: Heloise/Vinegar, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001. Or you can order it online at www. Heloise.com.

FYI: Pour a splash or two of vinegar in the washing machine and run a small load cycle to freshen its hoses and drain, too! — Heloise

USE IT AND MOVE IT

Dear Heloise: Many people at workout facilities simply sit on the equipment after they’ve performed their repetitions — they stare endlessly into space or (more and more these days) check and play with their phones, monopolizing the exercise apparatus sometimes as long as 15 minutes. This is egregiously inconsiderate. — Jim R. in Houston

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