Spilled Something on Your Car Seats? Don’t Use This Product

Did your grandkids spill ketchup on your leather seats? The stain shouldn’t be too hard to remove — as long as you skip the single-use wipes. ​

Why it matters: The problem with disinfecting wipes is that they contain chemicals that can be unevenly distributed, so some are more saturated than others. Since leather tends to absorb liquid, these products can damage your seats, so suddenly you’ve got a bigger problem than a ketchup stain.

The better option? An all-in-one interior-detailing spray that contains ultraviolet protection. Apply the spray to a microfiber cloth, wipe up the stain and voilà — you’ve got clean seats again! 

Another important thing: Need to remove dog fur from your seats fast? Put on a rubber glove and rub your hand across the seats to remove any stray hairs. 

Want to know more? Check out our guide to cleaning your car and listen to the Today’s Tips episode below. And since maintenance can be so pricey, we’ve got tips to lower your car expenses.​

More Tips From This Week

Thursday

This Fun Activity Boosts Your Brain and Bones

Go ahead and dance the night away, even if you have two left feet. Whether it’s swing or the Macarena in your kitchen, dance has big benefits for your brain and body.​

How it works: Since dance is a social, physical and mental activity, consider it a triple threat. ​Dancing can enhance brain function, which may improve memory and fend off dementia.

And that’s not the only reason it’s such a big deal. Dance is considered a weight-bearing exercise that helps older adults retain muscle mass and protect their bones. ​

Another important thing: Have a favorite song from your teenage years? On particularly stressful days, dance around your living room while blasting the music. We know it sounds silly, but research shows that positive memories can help reduce negative feelings.​

Want to know more? Learn more about the benefits of dance and try a 10-minute Zumba class. Then check out other exercises that are good for your brain and listen to the Today’s Tips episode below about exercise snacks for days you’re short on time. 

Wednesday

Save Money With This Supermarket Swap

​Do you skip store brands while grocery shopping because you already have your favorites? You might want to reconsider. 

Why it matters: Store brands are often 20 percent cheaper than name brands. And strangely enough, there typically isn’t much of a difference in quality. Some are even made at the same facilities.

So don’t be afraid to swap your favorite brand of cookies for the generic version when it’s cheaper. If you’re still hesitant, you can always compare the ingredients before you toss the item in your cart. 

Another important thing: Does throwing out leftovers feel like pouring dollar bills down the drain? Instead, freeze excess food before it goes bad. A lot of unexpected foods, like sweet potatoes and avocados, can be frozen! 

Want to know more? Here are 10 supermarket spending traps to avoid. Also, we’ve rounded up 15 unexpected foods to freeze and how best to do it. Finally, listen to the Today’s Tips episode below for even more tips on saving money on groceries.

Tuesday

Avoid This Major Manicure Mistake

​Treating yourself to a manicure? Ask the nail tech to push back your cuticles instead of cutting them.

Why it matters: Getting rid of pesky hangnails can feel so satisfying, but cutting away at your cuticles can be risky. That’s because cuticles protect your nails from germs, so even a small nick can introduce infection-causing bacteria. Gross.

Since nobody likes a nail infection, tell your nail tech that you want your cuticles softened and gently pushed back. This gets rid of that extra skin without giving germs an open invitation to party. 

Another important thing: If you’re getting a gel manicure with an ultraviolet lamp, don’t forget to lather your hands with SPF beforehand. This way, you’re protecting them from UV exposure while your nails dry.  

Want to know more? Our ultimate manicure guide gives you the 411 on everything from press-ons to acrylics. And get this: Our fingernails can provide clues to our overall health. Learn more about what pitted nails and other changes might mean for you. Then check out these tips on caring for your nails and brows at home.

Monday

Bloating Is a Bummer. A Surprising Utensil May Be Contributing​

We have bad news and good news. There’s no magic cure-all that stops bloating, but a quick fix can help. All you have to do is skip the straw. 

How it works: While you’re slurping your favorite beverage through a straw, air is also flowing into your digestive tract. And that excess air can cause bloating and discomfort. 

What’s more, some evidence shows that you drink more when you use a straw. That’s not a problem if you’re enjoying H20, but if it’s soda or lemonade, you may be consuming more calories and sugar than you realize.

So bid the straw farewell and your gut may feel a little better.

Another important thing: Need one more reason to cut back on soda? The bubbles and fizz can be a cause of bloating, so it may be worth reserving that root beer for a special occasion or when you really crave a treat. 

Want to know more? Check out our list of seven foods that cause bloating. Looking for ways to reduce belly fat? We have 25 ways to get a flatter stomach after 50. And while you’re at it, learn more about your gut health and which foods can help boost your microbiome.