DEAR HELOISE: I used to come home from the store, only to realize I’d bought spices that I already had tucked away in the cupboard. To solve this problem, I came up with an easy system that works every time.

Whenever I buy a new container of a spice that I already own, I place a rubber band around the older container. This way, when I look in my spice cabinet, I can quickly see that I have a backup and don’t need to buy more. The rubber band acts as a simple visual reminder, saving me from buying duplicates and wasting money.

This method doesn’t require labels, lists or special organizers — just a rubber band and a quick glance before shopping. It’s a small habit, but it’s made a big difference in keeping my spice cabinet organized and avoiding unnecessary purchases.

• Judie, in West Virginia

DEAR HELOISE: Instead of donating all of your old eyeglasses, consider saving any frames and eyeglass cases that are still in good condition. Frames can be expensive, and you never know when you might need a spare pair.

If your prescription changes, your optician may be able to reuse an older frame by fitting it with new lenses, which saves money. Extra frames are also helpful if a current pair breaks or needs to be repaired. Eyeglass cases can be reused as well and keep glasses protected when traveling, or they can be stored as backups.

Of course, if the frames are bent, cracked or worn out, they shouldn’t be saved or donated and should be discarded. A little storage space now could save time and money later.

• Barbara Ells, in Earlton, New York

DEAR HELOISE: I’d like to suggest a simple habit that could make our roads much safer: regularly checking your car’s lights. Headlights, brake lights and turn signals are easy to overlook, but they are critical for keeping everyone safe.

In a two-person household, one person can sit in the driver’s seat while the other checks the lights. If you live alone, you can turn on your headlights and signals while facing a garage door or a store wall at night. You can also ask a friend, neighbor, or coworker to help.

During the winter months when it gets dark earlier, this is especially important. On a short 20-minute drive one evening, I passed four cars that were missing a headlight. A quick check can truly save lives.

• Diane, via email