Fixit: How to delete cell-phone data

Q Before donating an old cell phone to charity or dropping it in a recycling box, what is the best way to delete personal information?

A You're smart to think of this. Data on your phone, including personal contacts, photos and Web search terms, may be recoverable with relatively simple and inexpensive software programs. You'll want to remove this information before you dispose of your phone.

Permanent data deletion usually requires several steps. Remove the memory or subscriber identity module (SIM) card from the phone. That's an important first step in deleting information, but you probably will need to do more to erase all the sensitive data on your device. You can command a cell phone to delete certain data, but that will only delete the references to where the data is located; the actual information stays on the phone's operating system.

Permanent data deletion also may require you to clear data from the phone's contacts and other stored information. Your owner's manual, your wireless provider's website, or the manufacturer is likely to provide information on how to permanently delete information from your mobile device (and even how to save or transfer information to a new device before deletion). Make sure that you have removed the following data: phone book, any lists of calls (received and made), voice mails, e-mail and text messages, organizer folders, Web search history and photos.

Federal Trade Commission, Washington, D.C.

Stainless-steel appliances Q Our house has all stainless-steel appliances, and they are a nightmare to keep looking good. They're covered with handprints and smudges, and when I clean them, they streak. What can I use to clean them that doesn't cost a lot?

A Stainless steel doesn't stain, but it sure does spot and smudge, and streaking is a problem unless specialized cleaners are used. Try cleaning with Weiman Wipes, available in the cleaning aisles of stores such as Target.