This week’s hot tips

• If you’re having trouble with your car’s battery, follow this tip from B.D. of Virginia: “Disconnect the battery terminals and clean them with a wire brush. Reconnect and smear with petroleum jelly. The jelly will prevent corrosion and help keep the battery cranking all winter.”

• Here’s a reminder from J.E. of Colorado: “Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you can skip the sunscreen — especially if you live in a snowy climate. Remember that sunlight reflects off white snow, and it intensifies the effect. Lather up, people. If you get one that is moisturizing, it’ll soothe dry skin as well.”

• “When doing my holiday shopping, I carry a quart-size Zip-lock baggie in my purse. I put all receipts in it, and I ask for multiple gift receipts to be put in the bag with the merchandise. I can keep it all together until after the holidays, so I always have a receipt handy if something needs to be returned or exchanged.” — C.L. in Missouri

• “I keep a cookie sheet by the door to hold muddy shoes and boots. No more moose tracks through the house!” — R.S. in New York

• “If you have extra tasks to do for visiting company or holiday parties, marshal the family. I have three school-age kids, and I write out chores on slips of paper for them to stick in their pockets. If I don’t have to remind them to get chores done, there’s an extra allowance in it for them.” — H.A. in California

• When unpacking decorations, make note of items that will need to be replaced after this season. When everything goes on sale, you can buy for next year at great prices!