Heloise, syndicated columnist

Dear Heloise: I just read a post by a reader in Henderson, Nevada, about only using your credit card for emergencies. Well, if you’re going to show discipline with your credit card, why not use your card for all purchases and then pay the whole balance monthly? Many cards will give you points toward some kind of travel.

I use my card for everything — utilities, cable, gas, groceries, dining out, any entertainment, etc. I mean, I don’t go out of my way to get points. They are everyday and monthly purchases that I am making anyway. Might as well get something in return.

I’ve taken many a free trip by accumulating points on my card. And I never pay any interest on my card because I pay it off in full each month. It does take discipline. But it’s definitely worth it! — Bill E., Highland, California

CLEANING BATTERIES

Dear Heloise: If you have a small device, like a camera, that uses batteries, and it just won’t behave, take out the batteries. Clean both contacts where the batteries touch and the ends of the batteries themselves with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl or rubbing alcohol. In a pinch, you also can use a pencil eraser if alcohol isn’t available. You would be surprised how often this works. — E.B., Valinda, California

BAKING SODA SOLUTION

Dear Readers: If your dog’s plastic pet toys are dirty, clean them with a mixture of baking soda and water. Scrub off the gunk, wash and rinse well. — Heloise

Editor’s note: Send a hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001, or you can fax it to 1-210-HELOISE or email it to Heloise@Heloise.com. She can’t answer your letter personally but will use the best hints received in her column.