HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR HELOISE: I have a vacation planned to a foreign beach, and I would like to bring home some seashells. Do you know if you are allowed to bring seashells back into the United States?

• A Reader in Va.

DEAR READER: According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, seashells usually are allowed into the United States, with a few stipulations:

They must not be from endangered or threatened species.

They must be clear of creatures, sand, soil, etc.

A traveler may bring only a small amount for personal use.

Stones and pebbles are acceptable in small quantities, following the same guidelines.

Here is a hint for cleaning shells. When you get back to the hotel, fill the tub with hot water and add some shampoo. Soak for a while, and use a clean washcloth or hairbrush to scrub away sand, dirt and grime, then rinse thoroughly.

All of these items must be declared with customs when entering the United States. You should check with authorities at your destination about any regulations they have. Also, be careful: Even if you buy an item in a shop, it does not mean you will be allowed to bring it into the U.S.

P.S.: Use the plastic “laundry bag” in your room to put them in, then into your suitcase or carry-on bag.

DEAR HELOISE: My friend told me about a bride who got married in the heat of the summer. She bought spray deodorant (Heloise here: I think you mean antiperspirant, which keeps you from perspiring. A deodorant keeps the perspiration from smelling.) and sprayed her entire body before getting dressed. It really worked. She was cool as a cucumber in the high temp of summer.

• Corrinne in Universal City, Texas

DEAR READER: This also works on feet. Be careful: Some antiperspirants and deodorants may stain the fabric.

DEAR READERS: Here is a friendly reminder when going to doctor’s appointments: Be aware that germs are everywhere.

Germs are on the obvious places, but also are on other surfaces like elevator buttons, door handles, pens at the check-in desk, magazines, etc. So always carry hand sanitizer or anti-bacterial wipes with you to the doctor, medical facility or nursing center. Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or e-mail [email protected]