HELPFUL HINTS

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.

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.

DEAR HELOISE: My electric company sent out a flyer with a list of things it will never do:

■ 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

DEAR HELOISE: We have been using vinegar in our dishwasher to help the glassware come out sparkling clean. Just ½ 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?

— Bob in California DEAR READER: 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.

FYI: Pour a splash or two of vinegar in the washing machine and run a small load to freshen its hoses and drain.

Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email Heloise@Heloise.com