CBjorklund's blog

Considering how many people get into trouble with credit cards, using a debit card can be a good way to make sure you live within your means. But, there are some disadvantages to using a debit card.

The worst thing you can do when you spill something on your carpeting? Grab an off-the-shelf spot remover and start rubbing. Charlene Locke, an expert at Sequoia Cleaning & Restoration, Inc., a Diamond Certified company, says this can just make your problem worse. “The right way is to first remove any solid matter with a spatula. Then, fold a towel into a tight square; place it on top of the spilled area and then step on it --- using your whole weight. And keep on turning this folded square towel until the spill is fully absorbed.” Ms.

Teenage drivers are at higher risk than other drivers. That’s why they’re required to take driver’s education, including behind the wheel training and they must be monitored and tested. Safety experts believe in involving parents from the beginning by inviting them to ride along for the driving lessons. They can see for themselves what and how the teen is learning, and this helps with continuity and consistency when the parents monitor practice sessions.

When your hair starts falling out at an alarming rate, it’s time to see your primary doctor or dermatologist to find out the cause. For some, changing your diet or taking an oral medication helps reduce hair loss. For others, the solution may be a hair transplant. Hair restoration surgeon, Dr. Peter Panagatacos, a Diamond Certified physician, suggests taking your time when choosing your physician and asking lots of questions. “How long have you been doing it? Ask your own dermatologist who he would recommend or who would he go to if he were to have it done. Call the medical society.

Every time I use my dryer, I clean out the lint screen. Unfortunately, not all the lint is captured there. According to Doug Francone, owner and President of Ductz of Walnut Creek and The Tri-Valley, some lint slips into the duct that’s used to move the hot, moist air from the dryer to the outside. Over time, that lint can build up and cause problems.

This is useful consumer advice from CALPIRG (California Public Interest Research Group) that I want to share with you. They say we leave up to $5 billion on unused gift cards.

“It’s tough to beat the convenience of a gift-card, but consumers should be aware that about 2-5% of gift-cards end up going unused,” said Jon Fox, Consumer Advocate with CALPIRG. “In California that money stays with the retailers and is essentially a $5 billion gift from consumers every year.”

I will be the first to admit that I have never thought twice about throwing any and all pre-approved credit card solicitations into the trash. David Rhoads, Vice President of SureShred, a Diamond Certified company, warns against being so careless. He says that identity thieves can easily take these offers from the garbage, change the return address, sign it and get a credit card in your name.

Have you hit the malls with your holiday shopping list yet? Even the best gift giver occasionally misses the mark, so it’s wise to understand a retailer’s return policy before you buy. Policies can vary greatly, from unlimited returns on most items with a receipt (Macy’s) to 14 days for certain electronics (Best Buy), gift returning policies.

Here’s a doozy. Have you seen this on a clothing care label? “Do not dry clean. Do not hand wash. Professional spot clean only.” Gary Casassa, owner of Marin Cleaners, Inc., a Diamond Certified company, usually sees these types of labels on high-end items such as evening dresses with beads and sequins. Customers don’t like hearing that even a professional dry cleaner can’t do a thorough cleaning on these items. Some garments become unwearable as a result.

Driving on wet roads with your cruise control on can be very dangerous. Lyde Waitley, owner of Olsen’s Automotive Repair, a Diamond Certified company, says the concern is that if your car begins to hydro-plane and tires lose contact with the surface, the cruise control will take some time to react. When your car begins to get traction again, it will accelerate, making you take off too quickly. You may lose complete control of your vehicle.