5 Cyber Monday shopping faux pas to avoid in 2022

5 Cyber Monday shopping faux pas to avoid in 2022

Cyber Monday is a fantastic opportunity to grab dreamy deals that can be easy prey to fall for during the holiday shopping season. Fortunately, you can avoid this possibility with adequate foresight and planning by recognizing the pitfalls that may occur on Cyber Monday. Avoiding these traps will let you take advantage of the most incredible discounts wisely. So, make the most of the Cyber Monday 2022 sale by avoiding these major holiday shopping gaffes. Being unprepared Making a shopping list without planning is never a smart idea, but it is perilous on Cyber Monday. You will be bombarded with emails, web ads, and social media posts touting the day’s incredible deals. Online businesses will use their most aggressive marketing tactics, including tremendous discounts and “can’t miss” specials, to attract and sway you. This makes it easy to make unnecessary purchases. So, list the products you require or individuals you need to buy gifts for. And once you’re done, check off your list’s corresponding products or name of individual’s each time you click “Place Order.” Falling for an unrealistic price/deal Just because the sticker price is a steal doesn’t imply you’re getting a good bargain. Check product reviews and make educated guesses about whether products with alluring prices are essential. Consider this: you buy an electronic item because of its low pricing compared to similar items in the category. Still, if it breaks within a year or has severe performance difficulties, was that even a good deal? There are plenty of discounts during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and spending extra for quality will only benefit you in the long run. Waiting for eons In some years, prices fall as the season progresses. In others, this does not occur, and you may pay more as inventory runs low. Though it’s nice to fetch the most outstanding deal possible (for yourself or as a gift), is it better to research and get it at a reasonable price.
5 common Black Friday shopping mistakes to avoid

5 common Black Friday shopping mistakes to avoid

Black Friday brings a lot of excitement to shoppers every year. Retailers advertise tempting discounts to help you save some extra bucks. People flock to stores and visit their favorite brands’ websites to get those items that were on their list for a long time but did not fit their budget. However, the day can be a disaster if you do not plan. Here are some mistakes to avoid to maximize your savings. Spending more than the stipulated budget This is among the most common mistakes people make during the Black Friday sale. Gripped by the fear of missing out on big discounts, many resort to impulse buying and exceed their budget. Such overspending could result in financial distress during the holiday season. As some shops offer deals and sales multiple times a year, you should avoid exceeding your planned budget and purchasing everything at once. Shopping without planning Getting the most out of the holiday season sales requires creating a shopping list before venturing out. A thorough list will enable you to buy products you really need and not things that are cheap but useless. Planning also helps allocate funds to different products to achieve the most from your budget and enjoy as many deals, discounts, and price drops as possible. Further, it aids in avoiding crowds and focusing on sections of the store with the necessary products. Falling for marketing gimmicks During Black Friday, the internet is flooded with advertisements by most brands to attract customers. But, not all of them are profitable. So, you must do your research. Analyze customer reviews and shortlist deals that offer lower prices but also quality products. Spending a few extra bucks on products that have better quality might prove beneficial in the long run and provide better value for money. And although various deals and discounts are offered during the holiday season, you need not rush to buy something that can wait.
Top 10 hacks for a successful Cyber Monday experience

Top 10 hacks for a successful Cyber Monday experience

Also known as Blue Monday, Cyber Monday is the day after Thanksgiving weekend. It is a shopping extravaganza considered the biggest shopping day in the country. It comes on the heels of Black Friday and is an online event where sellers offer exciting deals and discounts. However, this can make shoppers overspend or buy more things than they need. So, a few hacks can help you avoid mistakes and make the most of Cyber Monday. Compare prices Avoid diving right into the first deal you see on Cyber Monday. Comparing the prices and checking the original price beforehand will help you get the best possible deals. By using a price comparison app or website, you can find retailers offering the lowest prices. Try collating the information for the products you need in one place. You could include site descriptions, product links, and discounts and keep updating your list. Shop in private mode You leave your digital footprint whenever you shop or browse through a retailer’s website. Retailers can easily keep a tab on your browsing and purchasing behavior. That is, you should shop in incognito mode. This can make you eligible for deals that might be otherwise inaccessible to someone with your browsing history. Create accounts on retailer’s apps Sometimes, certain brands and retailers offer better deals and early bird discounts to people who have accounts on their websites. If a brand you like offers similar, create an account on their website or application beforehand. Plan your spending As lots of offers and deals are rolled out on sale days, shoppers may give in to impulse purchases and end up overspending. So, the first rule of Cyber Monday shopping is to plan your purchases. You should make sure you stick to the budget or limit you set, as this will help you spend what you can afford and protect your finances.
6 Mistakes to Avoid When Changing Engine Oil

6 Mistakes to Avoid When Changing Engine Oil

An oil change is a crucial auto maintenance job. While you can call an expert to change your engine oil, doing it yourself will save you money and help you understand how your automobile works. The procedure is pretty straightforward, but it’s best to be cautious and learn what it takes to perform an oil change successfully. Before listing the common oil change mistakes, let’s understand why changing car oil is essential. Why are car oil changes necessary? Engine oil circulates through the engine to keep its components lubricated. This lubrication helps the parts move smoothly and reduce friction as the car runs. Without oil, the higher friction between the engine’s components would quickly reduce mileage and performance, affecting the life of the automobile. However, the oil’s ability to reduce heat and friction reduces with time. It usually becomes darker in color and thicker, indicating it’s time for an oil change. Common mistakes when replacing car oil Here are a few mistakes to avoid if you’re changing your car’s engine oil by yourself without assistance from oil change services: Not using a drain pan A drain pan is a container into which used engine oil is drained. It helps avoid messy spills on your garage floor and allows you to transport the oil to recycling centers. Numerous styles of drain pans are available on the market, but the three most popular options are open-top, funnel-top with a drain spout, and semi-open with a drain spout. Funnel-top is perhaps the best design; it ensures the oil inside is completely covered, reducing the danger of oil spillage. Regardless of the type of drain pan you choose, ensure it’s simple to slip under and out of the car without spilling. The height of the drain pan matters, since you need to reach inside to remove the oil drain plug.
10 Best Moisturizers for Aging Skin

10 Best Moisturizers for Aging Skin

While aging is inevitable, taking good care of the skin by adopting healthier lifestyle choices can help one age gracefully. The aging process causes the skin to lose its elasticity and radiance. Modern-day moisturizers come with anti-aging ingredients, like retinol and collagen, meant for mature skin. Moisturizing the skin can enhance its glow by improving its firmness and elasticity. This can also help one look youthful. So here are the best moisturizers for mature skin: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream CeraVe has some of the best products for skin health. Its moisturizer contains ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid. The combination of these ingredients helps hydrate the skin. The product has a rich, creamy texture that does not feel heavy or oily on the face. Additionally, CeraVe is a fragrance-free moisturizer, making it perfect for people with sensitive skin. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Although mature skin tends to lose its moisture, many continue to have oily skin throughout their life. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel is a lightweight moisturizer free of alcohol and oil, containing ingredients like glycerine and hyaluronic acid. The gel helps keep the skin hydrated and plump and also improves the appearance of fine lines, among other signs of aging. SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 This cream is highly recommended by dermatologists and is packed with a few skin-friendly ingredients. Rich in fatty acids and ceramides, the cream also has cholesterol that helps lock moisture. The product has an antioxidant-infused formula. It also contains vitamin E, which helps in cell reproduction, protecting the skin against environmental damage, and skin repair. Paula’s Choice Skin Recovery Replenishing Moisturizer Those dealing with rough skin should try this moisturizer. Its creamy texture offers a much-needed dose of hydration to skin that has dulled with age. The antioxidants in the cream help in skin repair, while plant oils offer a dewy radiance to the skin.
Achieving Healthy Skin – Top 10 Skincare Myths Debunked

Achieving Healthy Skin – Top 10 Skincare Myths Debunked

Many people wish for healthy and glowing skin. However, achieving this goal is easier said than done. It requires effort, time, and money. Furthermore, today one will find the Internet filled with skincare tips and a few myths that can cause more harm than good. These myths can unnecessarily complicate one’s beauty regimen and, in some cases, even cause harm to one’s health. Keep reading to know more about these skincare myths. Popular skincare myths debunked Here are a few common skincare myths: Tight skin after cleansing equals clean skin Most people believe that the tightness of their skin after cleansing their face means clean skin. However, this skincare myth is far from the truth. This sensation of dryness is a negative sign. It indicates that the skin has been stripped of the necessary moisture and nutrients that are needed to keep it healthy and glowing. Furthermore, using common soaps can disrupt the pH level of the skin, leading to disruption of the skin barrier and skin damage. Hence, as an alternative, experts recommend using oil-based cleansers to keep the skin supple. The order of skincare products does not matter Although most people use several skincare products, such as cleansers, moisturizers, and toners, every day, sometimes they use them in the wrong order. This happens when people believe skincare myths that imply that their skincare products’ order does not matter. Even though improper usage of the products may not cause much harm, not using them in the right order will result in inadequate absorption of the products by the skin. This can cause the skincare products to not do their job efficiently. Hence, as a general rule, one must use products from the thinnest to the thickest. This allows moisture to be sealed in and keeps the skin hydrated. Oily skin does not need moisturizers If an individual has oily skin, they might skip applying moisturizer, as their skin is already slick, has better skin preservation, and has fewer wrinkles.
8 common gardening mistakes to avoid

8 common gardening mistakes to avoid

Gardening is a leisurely activity and a beloved hobby for many. But as incredible as it is, one needs to consider several factors to ensure the survival of a garden, and especially for it to thrive. If you are building a kitchen garden, it will require a different kind of dedication and a different set of rules than an aesthetic, floral garden. In either case, there are some essential tips to follow. So, let’s explore some common gardening mistakes to avoid. Neglecting soil preparation This is the most crucial step of any gardening process. The soil is the base of the garden, and it is full of nutrients that are essential for the plants to thrive on. Neglecting soil preparation can cost you your beloved garden. Before starting any activity on the patch, assess your soil’s texture, pH balance, and nutrient content. Analyze this report to understand what kind of plants this soil can support. You can add organic matter, like compost and manure, to the soil to help improve its nutrient content and any additional requirements. Also, this cannot be a one-time process; you will have to do regular soil checking to ensure that the nutrients are not depleting. Overwatering or underwatering Both of these are very common mistakes that most gardeners make, especially new ones. Watering the soil requires a delicate balance, and it is easy to misunderstand soil needs. You must study your soil and plants thoroughly to avoid this mistake. Underwatering can dehydrate the plants, causing wilting and stunted growth, and overwatering can cause suffocation, promote weed growth, and encourage diseases. You will have to check soil moisture regularly and frequently to maintain the right water needs of the soil and the plants. Overcrowding the plants If you are looking at a landscape structure, one of the most likely mistakes that are made is overcrowding the design.
Avoid these 10 fashion mistakes

Avoid these 10 fashion mistakes

The world of fashion is subject to constant change, and the only way to adapt to these changes is to stay up-to-date with the changing fashion trends. For this reason, it is a good idea to review one’s wardrobe every few months to discard outfits that are no longer in trend and introduce new ones that are currently doing the rounds. In addition, avoiding some fashion mistakes can help one facilitate a trendy wardrobe. Not taking good care of one’s outfits The process of being fashionable does not end with purchasing and wearing trendy outfits. Maintaining one’s clothes is essential to ensure they are long-lasting and retain their splendor despite repeated use. For starters, one should always check the labels of garments before washing them and follow the instructions carefully. For example, clothes made of delicate fabric would typically need to be hand-washed, while some may have to be dry-cleaned. It is also essential to remove any stains using a non-abrasive solution, such as vinegar or ammonia solution, before washing them in the laundry. Owning only retro or vintage apparel While bell-bottoms and maxis were popular immensely in the 70s for a reason, several other fashion trends have emerged over the years, and these styles have gradually taken a backseat. Wearing such apparel occasionally can help one walk down memory lane to an era that cherished such clothes. However, owning only these types of apparel is a clear indicator that one needs a wardrobe makeover. Failing to understand one’s preferred style Although it is important to stay updated with the latest fashion trends, one should avoid jumping mindlessly into fashion bandwagons. Pick and choose the styles that one is able to manage perfectly and is most comfortable with. Being comfortable in one’s clothing helps carry off the apparel and adds to one’s elegance.
Types, benefits, and costs of dental implants

Types, benefits, and costs of dental implants

Dental implants represent a breakthrough in modern dentistry, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for tooth replacement. This concise guide explores the world of dental implants, covering various types, associated costs, and numerous benefits. From enhancing appearance to restoring functionality, dental implants have become a preferred choice for those seeking a long-lasting and effective solution for missing teeth. Here is everything that is needed to know for this procedure. Types of dental implants Endosteal implants These are the most common types of dental implants and involve the surgical placement of small titanium posts directly into the jawbone. Endosteal implants provide a strong foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures. Subperiosteal implants Subperiosteal implants are placed beneath the gum but on or above the jawbone. This type of implant is often used when the patient does not have enough healthy natural bone for traditional implant placement. Zygomatic implants Zygomatic implants are an alternative for individuals with significant bone loss in the upper jaw. These implants are anchored in the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) and provide a stable foundation for upper arch restorations. Mini implants Mini implants are smaller in diameter than traditional implants and are often used for patients with less bone density or for stabilizing lower dentures. They require less invasive surgery and a shorter healing period. Benefits of dental implants Improved aesthetics Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, providing a seamless appearance and boosting self-confidence. Enhanced functionality Unlike removable dentures, dental implants allow for natural chewing and speaking without worrying about slippage or discomfort. Preservation of adjacent teeth Dental implants do not require the alteration of adjacent healthy teeth, preserving overall oral health, which is a major plus for anyone considering this procedure. Longevity Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care, making them a cost-effective long-term solution.
10 simple ways to get a free mobile phone

10 simple ways to get a free mobile phone

While mobile phones are necessary devices, they can be expensive. One has to not only spend on purchasing the phone but also pay for the service plan. These costs can quickly add up to substantial expenses, especially for those with a limited monthly budget. However, one can save on these expenses by exploring resources to get a mobile phone for free or at discounted rates. Here are some ways to get a free mobile phone. Government assistance programs One of the first resources that one can check out for free mobile phones is government assistance programs. Among these, one of the most popular is the Lifeline program. This initiative offers smartphones free of cost or even at discounted prices for those who are part of these federal programs – Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP – formerly known as Food Stamp Program) Medicaid Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Federal Public Housing Program Veterans Pension and Survivors Pension There are several eligibility criteria one must adhere to in order to get a free mobile phone. For example, one’s earning must be less than 135% of the federal poverty guidelines of each year. This means, the earnings must be less than $16,862 for a household of one person. Also, only one person in each household is eligible to receive a free mobile phone, even if there are multiple qualifying members in the family. Carrier promotions and deals Another easy way to get a free mobile phone is through cell phone carriers. All major carriers frequently roll out promotions offering free mobile phones. These include deals for new as well as existing customers who are signing up to purchase a new line. Some carriers also offer free phones as part of their internet package deals. Most of these deals require consumers to meet certain criteria, which are quite simple.
5 common gardening mistakes to avoid

5 common gardening mistakes to avoid

Gardening isn’t something you get right on the first try. It requires some trial and error to perfect. Sometimes, you might find a plant doing poorly in one spot of your yard but thriving in another. While you might need more than a couple of tries to get things right, you must first learn about the common gardening mistakes to avoid. Luckily, most of these are easy to step over. Skipping compost Plants need nutrients while growing, and the best way to supply them is by adding compost. By skipping compost, you’re falling prey to one of the most common gardening mistakes that should be avoided. Compost not only provides plants with nutrients but also adds moisture and improves the soil’s drainage. Ignoring pest control Pests are always waiting for a chance to make quick work of your garden. So, you must find a way to stop them without using poisonous chemicals. One solution is to grow disease and pest-resistant plants that attract birds and insects that eat destructive pests. You can use some non-toxic traps and sprays occasionally. Poor watering habits It’s impossible to ignore how many of us water our plants and gardens at the wrong time. If you want the lawn to retain moisture, water it last thing at night or first thing in the morning. Watering the yard when the sun is out at its highest will result in the evaporation of water. The water droplets will also increase the sun’s intensity by acting as a magnifying glass. Poor weeding Simply chopping off the heads of weeds is not enough, as the roots continue to spread under the surface. Weeds like thistles and dandelions have strong root structures, so dig deep into the soil to get the roots out completely. If that isn’t an option, use a herbicide that can make its way to the roots and kill them.
9 tax-deductible charity contributions

9 tax-deductible charity contributions

During times of charitable giving, such as in the holiday season, it is common to look for ways to give back to the community while reaping some tax benefits. One effective option is to make tax-deductible charity donations. These donations not only support charitable causes but also reduce one’s tax liabilities. This invariably helps in making the donations more impactful on the personal front as well as in communities one wishes to support. Cash donations One can make  monetary donations to public charities, which are eligible for tax deductions under 501(c)(3). These donations can be made through checks, credit cards, or payroll deductions through their employer. If the donor itemizes their deductions, they can receive deductions of up to 60% of their adjusted gross income (AGI) in a year for gifts of cash to qualified public charitable organizations. If they choose to donate to private charities, such as a family foundation, the annual limit of deductions is approximately 30% of their AGI. However, the donated amount must be substantial to avail of this deduction. Another option is to bunch together several small donations into a single year. Charitable gift funds One can also set up donor-advised funds. These are accounts that offer the flexibility of charitable giving to multiple organizations. The process of opening an account is simple and cost-effective compared to donating to private charities. One can recommend grants to specific charities through this account. At the same time, one can also avail of immediate tax benefits. Appreciated assets like stocks or securities Donating appreciated assets such as securities and stocks can bring in dual benefits. For instance, publicly traded stocks, bonds, mutual funds, securities, or any type of asset that has the potential to appreciate in value can attract a substantial capital gains tax whenever one decides to sell them.