Dear Heloise: Flushing a toilet sends a germ-filled mist throughout the air in a bathroom. I put my toothbrush in a cup filled with dry rice with the handle down. I cover the bristle with half of a plastic toothbrush tube. I use the other half to cover my water flosser. I use different-colored tubes in my guest room so the visiting family can protect their brushes. I also wash the tubes between visitors. — Dianne P., via email

Dianne, I place my toothbrush in the cabinet in my bathroom. Some people think that their toothbrush is far enough away from their toilet that they need not worry about germs, but it’s better to protect the toothbrush, especially during the cold and flu seasons. — Heloise

SPEAKING OF THE FLU

Dear Readers: Have you gotten your flu shot yet? Most doctors recommend getting a flu shot, unless there are other health issues that prevent you from getting this vaccination. Don’t let the flu ruin your holiday fun! — Heloise

A TOUGH GIFTEE

Dear Heloise: What do you get a woman who has almost everything and likes nothing? Last year, I gave my mother an expensive designer handbag and a matching wallet with money in the wallet. All she said was, “I already have a purse. What am I going to do with this one?” I’m out of ideas, and my patience is getting thin. — Jason R., Chicago

Jason, that’s not a difficult question to answer: Get her nothing. Or if you really need to get her a gift, you might ask her what she would like. Maybe all she wants is more time with you. — Heloise

ONLINE SHOPPING

Dear Heloise: I’ve never liked online shopping, but it is handy, especially at this time of year. How can someone safely shop online without get taken to the cleaners or being sold counterfeit products? I keep hearing horror stories of all sorts of problems with scammers. — Barbra N., Lubbock, Texas

Barbra, sometimes the price might be low and look like a terrific buy. But beware because it might not be a good deal. If the price is ridiculously low, it might be a tip-off that this is a scam. However, even scammers know that people rely on prices to tell them if an item is authentic, and they’ll use the same price as the real manufacturer.

You might want to be careful about unsolicited bargains that pop up on your screen. If you do buy something online, you’re better off using a credit card. Usually, credit card companies will either reimburse you for the amount you spent or will not charge you for a scam sale.

If you need help, there is a toll-free line you can call for more information at 877-908-3360. — Heloise

WINTER REMINDER

Dear Readers: Don’t forget to have your car winterized if you live in a cold winter climate. Carry some kitty litter made from clay in your trunk just in case you get stuck in the snow. — Heloise

HELPING CLERKS OUT

Dear Heloise: My hint regards the busy store clerks who work during this time of year. Whether I park far away or nearby, I always pick up a stray cart, or even one in the cart corral, and take it into the store. I often park at the far end of the lot to get some steps in, and there are always carts left way out there.

I read your hints in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle. Thank you and your mom for all the help over the years. — H.J, in Montana

— — —

Hints from Heloise run occasionally in Lifestyles. Readers may send a hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000, fax it to 210-HELOISE, or email: Heloise@Heloise.com. Letters won’t be answered personally.