**'Hints from Heloise': The Unexpected Shopping Tool That Might Be in Your Purse**

For years, Heloise has been dispensing practical advice to her readers, covering everything from household chores to tackling everyday dilemmas. But sometimes, the most ingenious tips come directly from her audience. Recently, a reader shared a simple yet brilliant idea involving a common household item: the humble backscratcher.

This reader wrote to Heloise, not to ask for advice, but to share a clever hack they'd been using for quite some time. The secret? Carrying a backscratcher in their purse. It's not for itchy backs, however. The reader revealed that the backscratcher serves as a handy tool for reaching items on high shelves while shopping.

The idea is surprisingly effective. Many stores stock items on shelves that are difficult for some shoppers to reach comfortably. Instead of struggling, asking for assistance, or even climbing (a dangerous practice!), the backscratcher provides that extra bit of reach needed to safely retrieve the desired product.

The reader's letter went on to describe a specific incident that highlighted the backscratcher's usefulness. While shopping one day, they noticed another woman struggling to reach something on a high shelf. The reader, armed with their trusty backscratcher, was able to assist the woman, who was reportedly delighted and impressed by the simple solution.

This tip underscores the resourcefulness of Heloise's readers and proves that everyday objects can have multiple uses. It also promotes a sense of community and willingness to help others. So, the next time you're browsing the aisles and find yourself reaching for something just out of grasp, consider this unconventional, but potentially life-saving, shopping companion. Who knows, your backscratcher might just become your new favorite shopping accessory!