Dear Heloise: I’ve learned that patience really matters at the doctor’s office. Sometimes I’m taken in right away, and other times, I wait. I’ve found that it helps to come prepared. I bring a book or make sure my phone is charged so that the time doesn’t feel wasted.

I also try to keep things in perspective. When my doctor comes in, he never rushes. He listens and answers every question. This extra care is worth a few extra minutes in the waiting room.

Appointments run on tight schedules, and emergencies happen. When I’m the one who needs extra time, I’m grateful that no one is watching the clock. A little patience makes the visit easier for everyone. — Helene, via email

MESSY SALAD-PACKET FIX

Dear Heloise: I’ve had enough of the messy salad-kit packets. You know, the tiny pouches of dressing or toppings that leave your fingers sticky and the counter splattered? They rarely tear neatly, and squeezing out the last drop can make lunchtime frustrating.

I’m not sure if there’s a perfect fix, but a few things help: I use kitchen scissors to snip a small corner rather than tearing it. I open packets over the sink or right above my bowl and keep a napkin nearby. Sometimes I pour the dressing into a small cup and drizzle it with a spoon.

If I’m packing lunch, I transfer toppings into small reusable containers before I leave home. It saves time with cleanup later. Maybe other readers have even better ideas! — Neater Eater, in Omaha, Nebraska

A SMART TRAVEL TRICK

Dear Heloise: I swear by spring-type clothespins when I travel. Some people use binder clips to close gaps in hotel curtains, but I find clothespins easier to squeeze, especially with arthritis. They’re also lightweight and inexpensive.

Hotel curtains often let in a strip of early-morning light. A clip or two keeps the panels closed and the room dark. At home, I use them to seal chip bags and bread. They’re sturdier than twist ties and don’t disappear as easily.

It’s proof that simple tools can be surprisingly useful. Toss a few clothespins in your suitcase — you’ll likely find more uses than you expected. — Cathy, in Texas

WHEN TO USE STORE WIPES

Dear Heloise: I’m still surprised to see people grabbing antibacterial wipes on their way into the store, especially since they’re usually placed right at the entrance.

From my understanding, these wipes sanitize the germs that are already on your hands, but they don’t provide lasting protection once your hands are dry. Inside the store, you’ll be touching carts, cans, boxes and produce that may have been handled by many others. To me, wiping at the beginning doesn’t make as much sense.

Instead, I make a point of not touching my face while shopping. On my way out, I grab a wipe and clean my hands before getting into my car. This way, I’m removing whatever I may have picked up during my trip. It’s a small change that makes more sense to me. — Kate, in Portland, Oregon

FRUIT CUP SOLUTION

Dear Heloise: I puncture the top of a fruit cup with a knife or fork and suck the juice out before opening the cup to eat the fruit. — Mary B., via email

Send a money-saving or time-saving hint to Heloise@Heloise.com. I can’t answer your letter personally but will use the best hints received in my column.