When you apply for a credit card or buy a smart phone, you have to sign what's usually a multipage contract with lots of legalese in tiny type. The contract is a take-it-or-leave-it deal: If you don’t sign it, you don’t get the card or the phone. So you sign it. No harm, no foul, right?

Wrong. Buried in the contract you signed there's often wording that says you’ve given up your right to sue the credit card or wireless company over any dispute you might have with it. That fine-print language is known as a forced arbitration clause, which typically says that you "agree" that a company can insist that any dispute that might arise between you and the company will be settled under the arbitration process.

That means, instead of going to court and making your case in front of a judge, you have to see an arbitrator, who is often chosen by the company. In an interesting—read: not consumer friendly—wrinkle, the company can keep choosing that arbitrator for repeat business, so there’s a huge incentive for the arbitrator to favor the company.

This arbitrator is typically not required to follow established law and procedure, and the arbitrator's decisions cannot be appealed, and are often kept secret. The fine print often says disputes will be considered by an arbitrator at a location chosen by the company, which could be far away from where you live.

Arbitration clauses also typically restrict you from joining with other consumers who have been mistreated in the same way by the same company. Because the costs for pursuing a claim effectively are typically more than the amount of a single claim, this restriction makes it far less likely that consumers will ever pursue claims. And that lets the company off the hook for its wrongdoing.

At Consumers Union, the policy and advocacy arm of Consumer Reports, we think forced arbitration is too often stacked against the consumer. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has issued a new report about this practice in consumer financial products, such as loans, cards and bank accounts.

The CFPB report finds that this restriction on consumers' ability to effectively pursue claims results in a windfall to financial service companies worth tens or hundreds of millions of dollars each year.

The report also found that more than 75 percent of consumers surveyed did not even know whether they were subject to a forced arbitration clause in their agreements with their financial service providers. And fewer than 7 percent of those covered by forced arbitration clauses realized that the clauses restricted their ability to sue in court.

“Basic legal protections have no meaning if companies can’t be held accountable under the law. The CFPB report clearly demonstrates why forced arbitration clauses are unfair to consumers and undermine the rule of law,” George Slover, senior policy counsel at Consumers Union, said.

The CFPB was created by the Dodd-Frank financial reform law to give a single agency authority to protect consumers in their dealings with banks and other lenders and financial-services companies. Dodd-Frank directed the CFPB to examine the prevalence of forced arbitration clauses in consumer financial contracts and the effect on consumers, and authorized it to regulate or ban the practice based on the findings.

Consumers Union is urging the CFPB to take action now to curb forced arbitration clauses so the consumer can freely choose how to resolve a dispute with a company.

“We hope the CFPB will now use its authority to prohibit forced arbitration from being a precondition for getting a credit card or a bank account,” Slover continued. “Banks and other financial services companies claim that arbitration is somehow better for consumers than going to court. But if that were really true, the banks and lenders wouldn’t need to force consumers to agree to it.”

This feature is part of a regular series by Consumers Union, the policy and advocacy arm of Consumer Reports. The nonprofit organization advocates for product safety, financial reform, safer food, health reform, and other consumer issues in Washington, D.C., the states, and in the marketplace.

Read other installments of our Policy & Action feature.

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

The Chevrolet Volt was recalled last week, ironically for being too quiet. It seems that when drivers use the Volt as intended, arriving back home from a round trip on electric power, the car is so quiet that some forget to turn it off.

The problem arises when owners park the car in an attached garage without plugging it in. In an emailed statement, GM describes the problem:

“If a driver exits the vehicle and inadvertently leaves the vehicle ‘on’ by failing to react to cues and warning chimes emitted by the vehicle, the vehicle’s high-voltage battery will drain after a period of time and the gasoline engine will begin to run. If the gas engine runs for a long period of time within an enclosed space, such as a garage, carbon monoxide could build up.”

GM is recalling 2011 to 2013 Volts to update the software so the car will shut off automatically after an hour and a half to reduce the potential carbon monoxide buildup. Volts from 2014 and 2015 already have the update.

Two people have been injured from the carbon-monoxide buildup, according to the GM statement.

We’ve seen similar problems with other hybrids, such as when one staff member drove to the office in our 2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid recently and parked it, not clear that the power was technically still on. Another staffer heard its engine running in the parking lot an hour later, as the engine fired up to provide heat on the cold winter day.

We think an automatic shutoff seems a sensible solution that makes sense for all cars, especially hybrids.

—Eric Evarts

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Consumer Reports has been singing the praises of steering wheels on zero-turn-radius riding mowers since outdoor power-equipment manufacturer MTD first introduced them five years ago for select Cub Cadet and Troy-Bilt riders. But now another company, Toro, has gotten into the act with models of its own that dispense with the mowers' usual tiller bars and lightweight casters.

The 42-inch Toro TimeCutter SW4200 74784, $2,900, is one of two models Toro began offering this year; 32- and 50-inch versions are also expected this season. As with the MTD models, the Toro’s steering wheel and steerable front wheels—rather than levers and casters—allow more intuitive control, especially on slopes, and automatically slow down on sharp turns. In addition to requiring fewer passes around a tree or other obstruction, the speed reduction also results in fewer patches of grass that are essentially scraped bare.

While other recommended zero-turn-radius riders did better overall, the Toro SW4200 74784 cut as well in the side-discharge mode (the most common among tractor and rider mowers), as higher-scoring riders with steering wheels. There are other pluses. In addition to the twin-cylinder engine, you get an infinitely variable drive system, which lets you vary ground speeds smoothly without shifting. You also get electric power takeoff, which engages the blades with a switch instead of a lever, and a high-back seat—with the ability to check the fuel level without leaving that comfy seat.

Another feature we liked in the Toro is how this machine automatically stops the deck and sets the parking brake when you need to jump off the seat while the engine is running. Husqvarna offered its own variation on that theme with a parking brake built into the steering levers of its $2,700 Husqvarna RZ246 23/46. This zero-turn-radius rider offered impressive cutting in all modes but didn’t make our list of picks because Husqvarna, like Cub Cadet, is among the more repair-prone brands of zero-turn-radius riders.

We’ll be telling you about what else we found in our latest mower tests over the coming weeks and months. In the meantime, check out our buying guide for lawn mowers and riders before viewing our mower Ratings of almost 190 walk-behind mowers, lawn tractors, zero-turn-radius riders, and rear-engine riders. See also our survey-based brand-reliability scores.

—Ed Perratore (@EdPerratore on Twitter)

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

If you've decided to switch from your gas mower to an electric mower this year, take advantage of a lawn mower exchange. These programs, which take place in many areas around the country in spring and summer, get you a discounted price on an electric mower. Typically, you show up at the appointed time at the designated location, say your municipal public-works yard, drop off your old gas machine, and head home with a brand-new electric. Your old mower will get recycled.

Some of the deals are pretty sweet: Through the lawn mower exchange in San Diego County, California (PDF), residents who show up to the event with a working gas mower can get a Black & Decker CM1936 36-volt cordless rechargeable for $99.99, including tax. It usually retails for about $400.

Since the number of mowers available through an exchange is often limited—the one in San Diego County has only 650 electric mowers available this year—you'll need to get to the site early or, when possible, sign up in advance. Some exchanges give you a rebate coupon instead of selling new machines on site. The Southwest Pennsylvania Air Quality Partnership—whose program includes mowers leaf blowers, trimmers, and chain saws—is one such exchange. Also, not every exchange is limited to a county or region. This year, Utah is holding its first exchange statewide.

I'm still considering swapping my long-serving, loyal self-propelled gas model for a cordless electric mower. (In stores and online you might see cordless models called electric battery mowers; electric corded models requires an extension cord.)

Why go electric? I'd like a mower that runs quieter, needs little maintenance (repair costs for my 14-year-old mower are adding up), and doesn't produce any emissions. Remember, the air quality where I live doesn't exactly scream Garden State. My lawn is less than a quarter acre and is mostly level, making it friendly for an electric.

Our Ratings include corded and cordless electric mowers from Black & Decker, Green Works, Homelite, Remington, Ryobi, Stihl, and Toro.

Even if I go with a high-scoring self-propelled cordless electric mower from our tests, there are some concessions to make. With their narrower decks, electric mowers require you to make more passes over the lawn, and they typically don't handle tall grass as well, so you can't take too many weeks off.

Unfortunately there's not a lawn mower exchange where I live. But I'll monitor the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. You can check the DEP or the equivalent in your own state. I'll also visit manufacturer sites to look for news about companies participating in a lawn mower exchange. In years past, Neuton ran a virtual exchange in which consumers recycled their machines and could then get a discounted electric mower from the manufacturer. 

After what's been another long, brutal winter, I'm looking forward to doing outdoor chores, including cutting the grass. (I might have to remind myself of that come mid-August.) Here's hoping I'll be doing the mowing with a discounted electric machine I got through a lawn mower exchange.

—Steven H. Saltzman

A big advantage to a cordless model is that it isn't tethered to a power outlet, giving you greater flexibility when mowing, especially if your yard has trees and other obstacles. 

But cordless electric mowers weigh much more than corded. The Black & Decker SPCM1936, a self-propelled electric battery mower, weighs 90 pounds. Its stable mate, the corded Black & Decker MM875, a push mower, comes in at 52 pounds.

And then there's price: The SPCM1936 costs $450; the MM875 runs $240. The corded electrics in our Ratings range in price from $160 to $240, while the cordless models start at $300 and go as high as $690. The Ego LM2000 (shown), our top-rated cordless electric, costs $500.

If I do get an electric model, I'll probably go with a cordless version even though when I tried out a couple of cordless models two years back, I was frustrated by the limited run time per charge. But according to our testers, today's cordless models run longer per charge.

—S.H.S.

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Grass greener on the other side of the fence? That might not be such a bad thing, now that the best yard on the block probably isn’t the one pumped full of chemicals and water.

“After World War II, a uniform, emerald-green lawn was marketed as a sign of success, but it’s becoming an outdated look as we understand the costs entailed,” says Diane Lewis, a physician and founder of the Great Healthy Yard Project, which teaches homeowners how to get beautiful yards without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. “It’s much more appealing to have a more varied and less perfect lawn that’s nurturing for your children, pollinators, and wildlife.”

Instead of wall-to-wall coverage, more homeowners are going for the area-rug effect, for example, buffering a smaller patch of lawn with native plants that attract bees and butterflies. Others are using the yard to create an edible garden. Water-smart landscaping is also gaining traction, especially in drought-stricken regions where some municipalities pay residents hundreds of dollars to replace thirsty turfgrass with gravel or mulch.

John Marzluff, author of “Welcome to Subirdia” (Yale University Press, 2014), calls it the Freedom Lawn. “Spending less time and money on lawn maintenance may allow homeowners to relax and enjoy nature in other ways, such as bird feeding,” he writes, noting that a shaggy lawn can attract goldfinches to dandelion seeds and even harbor frogs and turtles.

Consider this: Homeowners apply up to 10 times more pesticides per acre to their lawns than farmers do to crops, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Exposure to those toxins carries potential health risks, from skin rashes to cancer. And after they leave your yard, “the chemicals don’t just disappear,” Lewis says. “They wind up in rivers and streams and eventually get into our drinking water.”

Then there’s the economics. Maintaining a trophy lawn can be expensive, especially with water costs up 25 percent since 2010, according to the American Water Works Association. In parts of the Southwest, where tiered pricing applies, monthly bills can top $300. If the expense doesn’t cause homeowners to rethink their thirsty yard, being branded a water hog might. California’s State Water Resources Control Board website has even started ranking communities by their per capita water use.

Whatever your motivation, creating a healthy yard that looks great doesn’t have to be a lot of work. In addition to being more fuel-efficient, the latest mowers, tractors, and string trimmers are easier to operate and maintain. The electric starter in the $500 Cub Cadet SC500EZ uses a lithium-ion battery you can charge indoors, where the temperature is right for charging. And the Briggs & Stratton EXi engine, found in the Toro 20353 and Snapper SP80, never needs an oil change.

Let it grow. A scalped lawn means weak, shallow roots, so let your grass grow to about 4½ inches before mowing it to about 3 inches.

Mulch those clippings. They’ll deposit nutrients back into the soil, which could reduce your fertilizer needs by 25 to 40 percent, says Van Cline, Ph.D., senior agronomist for Toro.

Water less often. An established lawn needs only about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall (use an empty tuna can to keep track). Rather than a daily sip, give the lawn a good, long drink once per week or so.

Air it out. Heavily compacted soil denies your lawn much-needed oxygen. Aerating the lawn with a core aerator will help the soil breathe. Fall is the ideal time for this project because spring aeration can kick up weed seeds.

Embrace certain weeds. Clover takes nitrogen from the air and feeds it to the soil. With their deep taproots, dandelions can provide natural aeration. Mow them as you do grass.

Do a soil test. That will tell you which nutrients are missing. Applying lime can control acidity and reduce fertilizer needs. Though do-it-yourself kits are available, your local cooperative extension will do a more accurate soil test.

Look for low-maintenance ground cover. “Sedge is a grasslike plant that’s getting a lot of attention,” says Pam Penick, author of “Lawn Gone!” (Ten Speed Press, 2013). It can take occasional light foot traffic. For higher-traffic areas, she likes No Mow Lawn Seed Mix from Prairie Nursery, a fine-fescue mix suitable for cooler climates. In hot, arid regions, consider Habiturf, a mix of short prairie grasses.

Most turfgrass needs some kind of supplemental nutrition. But the four- and five-step programs marketed by manufacturers are overkill, plus they can unleash harsh chemicals into the ecosystem. A single fall application is often sufficient, especially if you follow our other lawn-care advice. Always read the instructions on the label, and keep fertilizers off sidewalks and other areas where they can be swept into storm drains.

Good: Slow-release fertilizers

These contain nitrogen and other chemicals, but they’re in a water-insoluble form, so they’re less likely than fast-release fertilizers to leach into the soil and eventually into waterways. Plus they won’t damage the lawn the way fast-release products can if you use too much. Using the recommended type of drop spreader will ensure even dispersal.

Better: Organic fertilizers

Derived from plant, animal, and mineral sources, organic fertilizers are broken down by microorganisms in the soil. If you have pets, avoid those that contain bone, blood, and fish meal because they might try to eat them, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea. The Organic Materials Review Institute website lists products that adhere to strict standards.

Best: Compost

Applying a quarter-inch top dressing of compost a couple of times per year will add healthy organic matter to the soil, reducing or even eliminating the need for fertilizer. Composting right after you’ve aerated will help mix the organic matter into the soil. A backyard compost bin is the most cost-effective approach, or you can purchase compost from the local garden center.

With forecasts changing like, well, the weather, it can be tough to properly water at the right time. But the makers of these smart products—Smart Watering Controller ($150), Rachio Iro Smart Sprinkler Controller ($250), and Skydrop Sprinkler Controller ($300)—claim to save up to half of the water your sprinklers use new.

The three products work similarly: A hardware device taps into weather-forecasting systems, customized to where you live, and either replaces or manages your existing controller and sprinklers.
The low-profile Toro Precision Soil Sensor ($115) relies on your soil’s moisture level at a given spot to judgewhen the grass needs water. A sensor probe, inserted into the soil, communicates with a receiver connected to your irrigation controller.

The yard-to-table garden

It takes some effort and irrigation, but an edible garden qualifies as sustainable by providing food for your family. “We started to see an increase in food gardening in 2009, after the recession, and it remains popular today,” says Bruce Butterfield, market research director at the National Gardening Association.

Nutrient-rich soil is key, so it’s worth investing in raised garden beds or going the container-garden route (a low-commitment option for beginners). Full sun is also required, so choose an exposed section of the yard. And consider drip irrigation, available in do-it-yourself kits at most home centers, because it will put water directly onto the root systems. As for what to grow, let your palate be your guide. “If you like strawberries, plant them,” Butterfield says. “Or you can grow a salad bar by planting tomatoes, cucumbers, and greens.” For additional suggestions, check out the website GrowVeg.com.

Average cost: $50 for a 75-square-foot plot.

The wildlife-loving garden

The monarch butterfly, which had its lowest count on record in 2014, is disappearing. Bees are also dying off in droves. Planting native milkweed and honeysuckle will provide nectar and pollen to those and other pollinators. Or consider “birdscaping,” by adding nourishing berry plants or thorny trees that offer protective cover for nests.

“If you can only count five species of plants, including the lawn, you’ve got an overly homogenized landscape,” says Damon Waitt, senior director and botanist at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Texas. “You want to see five times that number.” The center’s website has a database of more than 8,000 plants that can be searched by region, size, and sun requirements. You can also search for plants that are loved by bees and butterflies but not deer and other pests.

Average cost: $50 to $150 for a 75-square-foot plot when using plants; $10 if starting from seed.

The water-smart garden

With roughly half of the U.S. experiencing abnormally dry conditions, water-smart landscaping is going from niche to necessity. But it’s not all cactuses and concrete. “A responsible garden that takes less water can have the same appeal as a traditional garden,” says Bob Brackman, executive director of the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Go for native species that are adapted to local rainfall conditions. A layer of mulch will help retain moisture and slow weed growth.

For patios or pathways, a permeable material such as pea gravel or crushed granite will prevent runoff when it does rain. Use a rain barrel or other catchment system to collect water from the roof or your home’s air conditioning unit. Make sure in-ground irrigation is equipped with a soil sensor so that the yard gets water only when it needs it. The WaterSense section of the EPA’s website has additional tips.

Average cost: $9 to $12 per square foot, including plants, materials, and high-efficiency irrigation, according the California Landscape Contractors Association.

This article also appeared in the May 2015 issue of Consumer Reports magazine.

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

“The garage is where clutter goes to die,” jokes Amanda M. LeBlanc, a professional organizer in Birmingham, Ala.

Many of you said the same thing in Consumer Reports' recent nationwide poll of almost 1,000 garage owners. Filled with tools, lawn mowers, sports equipment, and more, the garages of 62 percent of Americans are crowded, disorganized, or a mess. Shocker: Almost a third of us don’t park our car in the garage no matter how large, and only 25 percent of people with three-car garages actually park three cars there.

Sound familiar? Even if you can still squeeze into your garage, getting from the car to the house shouldn’t be an obstacle course. Help is at hand.

First, cull (be ruthless). Then plan.

Divide items in your garage into four groups: sell (watch our video, below), donate, trash, and keep. That will give you a better idea of how much storage you need, and what kind. And if you call in a pro to install a system, you won’t wind up with one that’s more extensive and expensive than necessary.

Overall, your objective in this step is to get as much as you can off the garage floor and onto the walls or shelves. With that done, you can start planning. Ask yourself whether you prefer to store items behind closed doors, on open shelves, or a mix of both. Also, are there items cluttering up indoor living spaces that you’d like to store in the garage? And last, think about future needs. If you own a Mini Cooper but will be trading it in for an SUV, or vice versa, consider the size of future cars.

Remember to allow for the swing of car doors, plus room to exit and enter, when measuring. That way you’ll know how many linear feet are actually available for storage. Typically, the wall facing the hood will have room for deep shelves or cabinets, but side walls will have space only for shallow storage.

Consider our four scenarios, no matter what you’re storing. Tackle one problem or all of them if you’re feeling ambitious. Then you might be able to park your car—or even another car—in your garage.

Inspired by our organization advice? Please send your garage storage before-and-after photos to garagemakeover@cr.consumer.org.

A whopping 78 percent of people surveyed store tools or a workbench in their garage, and 44 percent use the space as a workshop. A slat wall, wire grid, or pegboard will keep your tools in plain sight. Opt for cabinets with doors and drawers if you prefer things to be stowed away or you want to keep them from young children. Unless you have an oversized garage, cabinets that are 24 inches deep and a workbench will probably fit only at the rear of the garage.

• If space is a premium or you maintain your own car, consider tool cabinets on wheels, which you can move into the center of the garage or the driveway.
• A workbench that lets you adjust the height is handy for different jobs and for users of different heights.
• Consider a workbench with a sealed, laminate, or plastic surface. Those types resist stains best, according to our tests. A wood or metal table is also a good option.

You’ll probably want wall storage and shelves for hand tools, potting soil, peat moss, and fertilizer. Lawn mowers and heavy pots will need space on the floor. If you need a new mower, consider the Toro 20339 SmartStow, $350. It can be stored upright to save space and performed very well in our tests, though it was a bit difficult to push, pull, and turn.

• Use a wall system for your rakes, hoes, and other tall items. An ideal place is along a side wall because those items don’t protrude much. Mount trowels, bulb planters, and other hand tools on a pegboard, either on individual hooks or perhaps in wire or clear plastic bins for visibility.
• If there’s space, consider a potting bench along the back wall, with some grow lights. Benches made of cedar, cypress, or galvanized steel will stand the test of time.

“If kids have to open a door, put in something, and close the door, forget it,” says Derrek Holland, who owns The Closet Doctor in Lincoln, Calif. “They’ll leave it on the floor.” A slat wall, track, or grid system can be fitted with hooks for specialized holders for balls, mitts, backpacks, rackets, skateboards, skis, bikes, and more. You can also mount hooks and other holders directly on the wall. Ditto for pegboards, which also come in galvanized steel. More tips:

• A slat wall or grid system allows you to easily raise hooks and accessories as kids get taller.
• Wall-mounted wire baskets, mesh bags, and clear, open bins stow items in clear view.
• An exception to the keep-the-floor-clear rule is a floor bike rack, which allows youngsters to ride right into the garage and park. When they’re older and stronger, swap it for a wall-mounted rack. No kids? Consider suspending bikes from the ceiling with a bike lift, either motorized or manual.
• A hoist allows you to get your canoe or kayak up and down without damaging it or harming yourself in the process. Be sure to check the weight that the units can hold as well as the head room your garage door needs.

The ceiling has become the new frontier in garage storage, with systems designed to hold items as varied as hurricane shutters, big coolers, and surfboards. Overhead storage is an economical alternative to a cabinet for large, long, and relatively flat objects.

• A ceiling-mounted shelf is the ideal place for such lightweight items as holiday decorations and out-of-season clothing. Most are designed to allow plastic bins to sit securely in slots. Mesh sides add another measure of stability.
• For bulk purchases, keep extra cleaning supplies and nonperishable foods near the inner door to the house.
• Paper records can go into bins, but the weight makes them better for a shelf mounted high on a wall rather than above a car. Some rail-storage systems have wall braces and accommodate bins above.
• Use clear plastic bins to hold more than one type of item. Opaque bins are fine for out-of-season clothes, old business records, etc., if they’re clearly labeled.

3 things you shouldn’t keep in your garage

Paint or solvent: Wide temperature swings can damage paint. Cold is especially bad because it can freeze the water in paint.

A refrigerator or freezer: When your garage is cold, the machine’s compressor won’t run long enough to properly cool the freezer. When the garage is hot, the fridge will work overtime to stay cool, driving up your electric bill. 

Gasoline or oil: Pilot lights, like those on a water heater, and flammable vapors are the problem here. The vapors could cause a fire or an explosion. Even in a detached garage, you want to be sure that gas is stored in an approved container. Keep only as much gas as you’ll use in a few weeks.

Depending on how many components you select and which types, you should be able to outfit two walls in a standard garage with open shelving for $1,000 to $2,000. Adding some cabinets will probably push the cost above $2,500, as will hiring an installer.

Hooks and baskets

The most basic and inexpensive approach is to simply install hooks, baskets, or other devices directly on a wall, using appropriate fasteners for studs, concrete/cement blocks, or gypsum board surfaces. Pegboard (now also available in sleek galvanized steel) with an array of hooks and fasteners is another easy and inexpensive option.

Track system

A track system can simply be a horizontal rail that allows you to attach various kinds of hooks, baskets, or mesh bags; others can also support cabinets or shelving. The highest-quality tracks are made of steel, preferably with an enamel coating, which can handle more weight and won’t rust unless scratched. You can reconfigure the system as your needs change.

Wire grids

Wire grids are usually made of metal with an epoxy or vinyl coating, although some are made of a strong polymer that looks like brushed chrome. Wall grids come in a variety of sizes, can be mounted vertically or horizontally, and come in different strengths to handle different weight requirements. When fitted with hooks, fasteners, and accessories, they can hold almost any item you want to stow. Reposition fasteners and accessories at any time or even move the grid up the wall as your kids grow.

Slat walls

Originally made of melamine clad particleboard or medium-density fiberboard for store displays, slat walls are the latest trend in garage storage. And now they also come in aluminum, PVC, resin, and steel, all of which are more durable than melamine. Horizontal grooves in the board accept baskets, bins, hooks, and other accessories. You can go whole hog by lining an entire wall with 4x8-foot panels. Some systems ­offer cabinets that can be mounted right on a slat wall and repositioned as desired. Or run two, four, or more horizontal slats at selected points on the wall.

Cabinets

Cabinet options include melamine laminated on MDF or plywood, injection-molded resin, or steel. Laminated cabinets may not hold up well if your workshop area gets a lot of use or is exposed to frequent moisture. Ditto organizers with cardboard backs. Avoid thin, flexible plastic cabinets; the shelves may sag, and the doors may not close properly. Thin steel cabinets can have similar problems. Look for thicker, lower-gauge steel, which is stronger.

Hanging cabinets reduce the likelihood of moisture transfer from the garage floor, which can delaminate melamine cabinets and rust steel ones. Hanging cabinets also ensures that they will be level; otherwise, the slight downward pitch of the floor that diverts water toward the garage doors means the cabinets may not line up perfectly and the doors may be more difficult to open. Some companies add front legs to deep cabinets for added support. Sliding cabinet doors make access easier than swinging doors when a car is parked nearby.

No matter the storage system and the clarity of the directions, a second set of hands will usually make the work easier. These simple—though often ignored—steps can help avoid problems:

• Plan to spend several hours assembling and installing a unit.
• Read all of the directions before you start putting the pieces together.
• Find and mark wall studs before attaching anything to the walls. Most studs are 16 inches from center to center.
• Do an inventory of the parts. If somethingis missing, it’s better to find out early so that you can request a replacement. If it’s a crucial part, you might want to wait until it arrives to get started.
• Measure twice, cut once. Before you cut wall brackets and other pieces, make sure that your measurements are accurate.
• Use a cordless screwdriver or drill to speed the work of driving many screws.

This article also appeared in the May 2015 issue of Consumer Reports magazine.

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

What feature do you want most in a new home? A separate laundry room tops the list for Millennials—adults 34 or younger—according to the American Housing Survey. Fifty-five percent of survey respondents said they would pass on a house without one. It’s not that Millennials want it all. The survey found they want smaller homes, but with a laundry room please. Whether you’re house hunting or shopping for new laundry appliances, keep in mind that washers and dryers have changed in recent years in ways that relate to your space.

Wide load coming through

Some high-efficiency top-loaders and front-loaders, like Consumer Reports' top-rated Samsung WF56H9110CW, $1,450, are two or three inches wider than usual; same with dryers. It’s one way to increase capacity. In our ratings a machine that scores excellent in capacity held about 25 or more pounds of our laundry. Those machines are typically bigger. A very good capacity score indicates about 20 to 24 pounds; good, around 15 to 19 pounds.
Tip: Look at the dimensions in our Features & Specs box on the model page for each washer and dryer. Measure the space you have to work with and allow room behind the dryer for the vent, and measure the door to the house and to the laundry room for moving day.

Height enhancers

Many front-loaders we test are excellent at cleaning, but the design isn’t that convenient and requires lots of bending. That’s why for $500 to $600 you can buy pedestals for the washer and its matching dryer. They raise the machines from 11 to 15 inches. And the GE GFWR4805FMC, $1,200, has a built-in riser that boosts the machine’s height by about seven inches. So does its matching electric dryer, the $1,200 GE GFDR485EFMC.
Tip: If you’re considering pedestals tally the height of the machine plus pedestal, especially if you plan to install your appliances below cabinets or shelves.

Stack ’em

For small laundry rooms or dual-purpose rooms—a mud and laundry room eliminates the middleman—stacking your appliances saves space. Most front-loaders we test can be stacked with a dryer, and we note this in the Features & Specs page in the Ratings so you can compare front-loaders. It’s also mentioned on each washer model page, as it is for the $700 Kenmore Elite 41472.
Tip: Use the washer and dryer dimensions in our ratings to get an idea of how tall the stacked machines will be. When shopping ask the salesperson to add it up as the actual height may differ slightly depending on how the dryer attaches to the washer. With height in mind, will you be able to reach the dryer controls and inside the drum?

Quiet, please

Agitator top-loaders cost less than high-efficiency top-loaders and front-loaders and the best do a very good job cleaning, such as the Whirlpool WTW4850BW, $580, and the GE GTWN5650FWS, $650. But agitator washers are usually noisy.
Tip: Look at the washers and dryers that scored very good or better in our tests for noise if you're placing these appliances near bedrooms or the family room. You'll know they're working but they shouldn't disturb you. You'll hear the machines that scored good or lower—they make sustained sounds that can be annoying. And while most manufacturers have reduced front-loader’s vibrations, keep in mind that concrete floors can absorb vibrations well, unlike wood-framed floors. You’ll see vibration scores in our washer Ratings.

Think like a kid

Keeping a front-loader’s door ajar between loads allows air to circulate and helps prevent mold and funky odors from developing if water collects around the rubber door gasket. But with washers and dryers moving to a space adjacent to the family room, kitchen, or bedrooms, young children may have unrestricted access. So if you have young ones running about, think how you’ll keep them safe—and be sure to keep detergent pods out of their reach.
Tip: See “How to prevent smelly mold buildup in front-loading washers” for more tips and consider a high-efficiency top-loader, such as the Samsung WA45H7000AW, $700.

Consumer Reports' washer and dryer Ratings offer all the details and you can easily compare models. Check the buying guides for news on features and the pros and cons of washer types. And if you have questions, e-mail me at kjaneway@consumer.org.

—Kimberly Janeway

Find the best matching washers and dryers from Consumer Reports' tests. And don't miss the:

Washing machine buying guide.

Clothes dryer buying guide.

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

You may already be avoiding caffeine, heavy meals, alcohol, and intense exercise in the hours before bedtime. But one habit—staring into screens until you shut your eyes—might be the hardest to break. Ninety percent of Americans use some type of electronics within an hour of bedtime at least a few nights per week, according to a recent survey.

The problem with that? The blue light in the backlit screens of electronic devices fools the brain into thinking it’s daytime, resulting in less secretion of melatonin, which among other functions helps regulate circadian rhythms. And watching TV might not be the greatest culprit. “The smaller the screen, the closer you hold it to your eyes,” says Dr. Charles A. Czeisler, who heads the Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston. “That concentrates the light, filling your visual field with it, which is why phones, tablets, and laptops have such an impact on your ability to relax before bedtime.”

If you must use your portable electronics right up to bedtime, consider a pair of blue-light blocking glasses, which may help reverse the effects on melatonin levels, according to a recent study by researchers at the University of Basel, Switzerland. In one study conducted at the Université Laval in Quebec, orange-lens glasses helped reduce the blue-light levels reaching your eyes.

Even if you don’t use electronics before bed, light from a bedside lamp can affect sleep. (So much for curling up with a good, old book.) Bulbs with a warmer color temperature, about 2,700 kelvins, tend to emit the least blue light. One from our tests: The Definity Digital Good Night LED from Lighting Science substitutes for a 60-watt incandescent and indeed emitted significantly less blue light than other LEDs. At $70, the price of a single bulb might be enough to keep you up nights. But the company does claim it will last 50 times longer than traditional bulbs.

A good mattress for a good night's sleep

An old lumpy mattress may be another reason you're tossing and turning at night. Here are the winners from the three types of mattresses tested by Consumer Reports. You'll find plenty more in our full mattress Ratings and recommendations.

• Top innerspring: Sealy Posturepedic Hybrid Trust Cushion, $1,275
• Top memory foam: Serta iComfort Savant EverFeel, $1,575
• Top adjustable air: Sleep Number i8 bed, $3,000

—Ed Perratore (@EdPerratore on Twitter)

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Consumer Reports tracks the prices of lots of products all year long, which means we can let you know which month (or, in some cases, months) you can find the deepest discounts on those items.

The five products listed below should be available at their lowest annual price in April. Just keep our usual caveat in mind: Great great discount offens occurs at the end of a season when inventories are thin, so you may not have a huge selection from which to choose.

As a result, it's important to check our buying guides (and for subscribers to check our Ratings and Reliability data) to make sure you also get a great performing product.

Want to know what's on sale the rest of the year? See our calendar of deals.

––Mandy Walker (@MandyWalker on Twitter)

As temperatures rise, retails want to move out spring gear to make way for summer goods. As a result, you'll find good deals on pring clothing this month.

Shopping tips

Time it right. You'll get the deepest discount on spring gear by timing it right, say the editors at Shop Smart magazine. It has found Kohl's fans could head to the "Gold Star Clearance" racks, where prices are slashed up to 80 percent on weekend nights. Every Wednesday, shoppers who are 60 years old and older received an extra 15 percent off. At Target, women's clothing was generally marked down on Tuesdays, men's on Wednesday, and kids' on Mondays. Markdowns at Marshalls and T.J. Maxx usually happened on Wednesday. Each store can be different and the policies can change at any time, so have a chat with store salespeople to find out what the deal is in the stores you frequent.

Look for deals from other seasons. If you can find winter clothing on the racks in stores, the prices should be slashed. And luxury consignment shops are good places to find first rate deals on second-hand designer goods any time of year.

Desktops deliver more performance for the money than laptops and are less costly to repair. They allow for a more ergonomically correct work environment, let you work on a larger screen, and typically come with better speakers. Desktops are available in various styles and configurations, all designed to appeal to different tastes—and uses.

But, with the exception of all-in-one or compact computers, most take up a lot of space, even with a thin monitor. For tips on getting the right model for you, read our buying guide. To see which models did best in our lab tests, subscribers should check out our Ratings.

Shopping tips

Think about type. All-in-one models incorporate all components, including the monitor, in one case. The components are tightly packed behind and underneath the display, making them difficult to upgrade or repair, but they can be space-savers. Compacts or slim desktops are ideal if you lack the space under your desk or you plan to put the computer on your desk. Like their larger brethren, compact desktops tend to be inexpensive, but they also may be more difficult to upgrade and fix. Full-size models require a lot of room under or on top of your desk, but they are the least expensive and the easiest to upgrade and repair. They also offer the most features and options.

Before you toss an old model, try recycling. Most manufacturers have recycling programs that help you to dispose of your old computer, but the programs vary considerably by company.

DWhether you're looking for a basic digital camera (simple point-and-shoots with just the features needed for routine shots), or an advanced model (feature-laden cameras that include sophisticated models that let you change lenses), now is a good time to shop. Our digital camera buying guide and our Ratings give you the details on different models, and infomation on features and brands.

Shopping tips

Do your research. Buying a digital camera can be confusing. There are hundreds of cameras available at many different types of retail outlets (online and in traditional stores), with prices ranging from $75 to several thousand dollars. Some cameras are small enough to fit in a shirt pocket. Others are large and can weigh up to two pounds. Some are easy to use. Others look like you need an engineering degree to operate them.

Take the next steps. After you consider the type of camera you want and the number of megapixels you need, but before you dive into specific models, be sure to check out our brand profiles, which outline many of the most popular camera product lines and their respective character traits.

Laptops let you use your computer away from your desk, but you pay for that mobility with a keyboard that's a little more cramped, and a higher price. They're also more expensive to repair than desktops.  

Whether your main consideration is portability or power, screen size will be an essential factor in deciding which type of laptop is right for you. To help you select the right model, see our buying guide. Subscribers can see our Ratings and reliability data.

Shopping tips

Even if you don't plan to shop for a mower, you could end up doing so if you own an older model and it breaks. The latest data from the Consumer Reports National Research Center show that push mowers usually aren't worth fixing after four years and self-propelled mowers after five years. Older tractors might be worth repairing, but getting them to and from the shop can add expense.

Shopping tips

Consider how you'll use it. Most models come ready to mulch, bag, or side-discharge clippings. But mulching or bagging with a riding machine usually requires a kit that costs $50 to $500.

Check the features and controls before you buy. Most tractors and riders let you speed up or slow down with a convenient pedal instead of a lever. Among self-propelled mowers, Toro models let you vary speed simply by pushing the handlebar, while Hondas let you adjust the ground speed without removing your hands from the handlebar.

For more tips, read our lawn mower and tractor buying guide; subscribers can also review our Ratings.

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Even if you limit the size of your lawn and let the grass grow a bit longer, you’ll have to mow it eventually. The mower you choose depends on the size of your property, the amount you want to spend, and how much energy you want to exert. Here are the pros and cons of the four types of mower as well as some recommended models from Consumer Reports’ mower tests.

Reel mower

Price range: $70-$200
Best for: Small lawns. They don’t pollute. They’re quiet, inexpensive, and ­relatively safe.
But: Cutting tends to be uneven. Also, be prepared for a hard slog if you let grass grow higher than a few inches.
Calories burned per hour (by a 150-pound person): 434

Push mower

Price range: Gas, $150-$350; electric, $160-$690
Best for: Level lawns smaller than a half-acre. Electrics start with a button.
But: You’ll do all of the pushing when mowing. Gas units need maintenance.
Calories burned per hour: 362
Recommended gas mower: Craftsman 37432, $220
Recommended electric mower: EGO LM2000, $500

Self-propelled mower

Price range: Gas, $250-$800; electric, $380-$500
Best for: Most lawns. They mow more evenly and are better for slopes.
But: Self-propelled mowers tend to need more repairs than push mowers.
Calories burned per hour: 325
Recommended gas multiple speed: Honda HRX2175VYA, $800
Recommended gas single speed: Toro 20339, $350
Recommended electric mower: Black & Decker SPCM1936, $450
Recommended wide-deck: Toro 20199, $1,000

Lawn tractor or rider

Price range: $1,200-$4,000
Best for: Lawns of one-half acre or more; lawn tractors are better for slopes.
But: You’ll need roughly 4x6-foot storage space. Add-ons may use more fuel.
Calories burned per hour: 181
Recommended tractor: John Deere X300, $3,000
Recommended wide-deck tractor: Craftsman 20445, $1,500
Recommended zero-turn-radius rider: Troy-Bilt Mustang 17WFCACS, $2,300
Recommended rear-engine rider: Troy-Bilt TB30R 13BC26JD, $1,000

More great choices

Find more mower picks of every type in our full mower Ratings and recommendations.

—Ed Perratore (@EdPerratore on Twitter)

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Is it time to buy a new mattress? You have more options than ever before. The big news is that department and specialty stores such as Macy’s, Sears, and Sleepy’s are no longer the default destination. Now great mattresses—at great prices—can be found at Costco and online sellers such as Casper and Tuft & Needle.

Not only are those companies lower-pressure—no pushy salespeople—but their prices are often gentler than you’d expect. And though you can’t try out mattresses at a warehouse club or website, those sellers’ return policies don’t penalize you for changing your mind. These days even electronics retailers such as Abt Electronics, P.C. Richard & Son, and HHGregg are getting in on the game in hopes of bolstering the razor-thin margins of entertainment gear with the fat markups that usually accompany mattress sales. All of that choice means you can find an excellent deal.

But no seller, whatever its selection, offers the perfect mattress. In our tests, no single mattress earned top-notch scores across the board. In our back-support test—which measures how well a mattress supports the curve of the spine—the top scorers were the Sleep Number i8 and Sleep Number c2 adjustable air beds. But they rated a notch lower for side support—a measurement of how well a mattress keeps the spine horizontal in that position.

At Consumer Reports, we test for ­attributes such as back and side support ­because a mattress that feels comfortable in the store may not be supportive enough night after night. So use our mattress Ratings to find the most supportive options, then lie on the mattresses, if possible, to find the one that is most comfortable for you.

Paying more doesn’t guarantee a better bed, either. The priciest mattress in our Ratings, the Dux 515 from the boutique retailer Duxiana, costs $7,600. Although it made our list of picks because of fine side support and durability through a simulation of eight years of use, the latex-topped innerspring was softer than claimed and offered less consistent back support. For that price, you have every right to expect stellar performance across the board.

Keep your old mattress going

Once your mattress is about 10 years old, start thinking about a replacement. In the meantime, you can flip or rotate some older innersprings to address minor dips. And if your mattress is newer and doesn’t have significant sagging, you might get away with adding a mattress topper. If you’re waking up achy, simply try a new pillow first.

Try lying before buying

Lying down on a mattress in a store can feel awkward, but more than 80 percent of subscribers we surveyed who’d done so told us they were satisfied with their purchase. Spend at least 15 minutes on a mattress. Shift positions and lie on your sides, back, and stomach, depending on how you sleep. But don’t write off online sellers or other stores just because tryouts aren’t possible; you might be passing up a bargain.  

Consider negotiating

Many businesses, such as warehouse clubs, have fixed prices that won’t budge. But for retailers that do negotiate—particularly specialty chains—huge markups let them lower prices by 50 percent or more during their frequent sales. Unless you’re switching from an innerspring to a foam or adjustable air mattress, you might also save $150 or more by keeping your old foundation (a box spring or other type of base, depending on what kind of bed you have). One strategy: Any time of year, insist on a sale price for a mattress you know you want, and don’t be afraid to walk out if you feel you’re getting a raw deal.

Ask about returns

Ask about trial periods, return policies, and restocking and pickup fees before buying. Most companies let you sleep on a mattress for 30 to 60 days before deciding to return or exchange it, but it helps to confirm that before buying. Keep in mind that many sellers will charge a 15 to 25 percent restocking fee on top of shipping, though you might at least be able to save on shipping by driving the mattress back yourself.

Come-on prices. Advertised specials are meant to get you into the store, not to sell you the best mattress. Because stores usually keep the most expensive models up front, start in back with the least expensive beds from a few top brands, and work your way up in cost. But you can aim too low; our tests often show that the cheapest mattresses are just that.

The old switcheroo. Ask for a particular mattress at a store and you’ll often be told it was replaced by another nearby that’s “exactly the same.” But the Serta iSeries Vantage inner­spring, which we’re told has replaced the top-ranked Serta Perfect Day iSeries Applause, scored significantly lower for back and side support. So using our mattress Ratings as a guide, stand your ground and accept no substitute—you can’t trust a sales rep’s word on the subject of identical or similar mattresses. Many model names are also exclusive to a given seller, so you won’t find what Sears or Macy’s carries at Sleepy’s.

The upsell. Salespeople can get incentives for pushing certain models. So if you feel you’re being steered toward a particular mattress or extras (such as a mattress protector), you ­probably are. Go by our mattress performance scores, and stick with what best matches how you sleep.

The overhyped warranty. Warranties usually cover only manufacturing defects, not ­normal wear. Sagging isn’t ­usually covered unless it’s at least 1½ inches deep.

Editor's Note: This article also appeared in the May 2015 issue of Consumer Reports magazine.

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Talk to realtors and home stagers and they usually tell you to paint your walls white or off-white when you’re putting your house on the market. If you’re staying put, using color can transform a room and liven it up. But the fear of choosing the wrong shade is one reason so many people stick with white. Here’s how to nail the right color.

Get inspired

To find the color you love look in your closet, says Debbie Zimmer of the Paint Quality Institute. Pour over vacation photos—nature’s colors are inspiring—and look at paintings and rugs for ideas. Are you drawn to muted or bold colors?

Set the mood

Blue can be perceived as calming, making certain shades a fine choice for the bedroom. Red is energizing. So figure out if you’re going for warm and cozy or cool. And now’s the time to consider the room’s floors, rugs, furnishings, and light.

Use online tools

Manufacturer and retailer websites offer tools, including ones that let you play with color. Some let you upload a photo of your room and then click to change the color of your walls. Behr’s ColorSmart, Benjamin Moore’s Personal Color Viewer, and Valspar’s Virtual Painter are a few of these tools. 

Buy three samples

If you’ve found a color you like buy the color you’re drawn to, and a shade lighter and one darker. Paint a sample next to a window and in an area that’s dark, viewing the colors in daylight and at night, with the lights on and off. Give yourself a day or two before deciding.

Matching colors

Let’s say you found a color you love but you’re not wild about the brand of paint. Color-matching systems have improved and you can get very close to the original color. A salesperson with a good eye and mixing equipment with clean nozzles can help too, and so does shopping when there are fewer customers. So pick the color then the paint brand. Keep in mind that the paint base and sheen can differ slightly among brands so ask the salesperson to put a dab of the freshly mixed paint on your paint chip and then dry it. Retailers often keep hair dryers within reach for that purpose.

Be sure to read “Don’t buy a beautiful shade of mediocre paint” for more ideas and the list of the top paint picks from our tests. Our interior paint Ratings give you all the details. If you have questions for our paint pros e-mail me at kjaneway@consumer.org.

—Kimberly Janeway  

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

You often hear stand-alone freezers described as big white boxes because, well, that's what they usually are. And why not, given their location in basements, garages, and other utilitarian parts of the home? But just as washers and dryers are emerging from the dark, thanks to the trend in upper-floor laundry rooms, more freezers are seeing the light of day. At least that's the pitch from manufacturers, who are designing stylish freezers designed to work anywhere in your home.

We just tested one of these new-look freezers, the Frigidaire FFFH17F4QT upright freezer, $800. The claimed 16.6 cubic-foot freezer features a slate finish, a look that's also popping up on more refrigerators, as a softer alternative to stainless steel. Inside the unit, color-coordinated baskets and adjustable dividers are designed to help with organization, while bright LED lighting can help you find items more quickly.  

Storage features and design flourishes are all well and good, but if a freezer doesn't maintain consistent temperatures, your frozen food will suffer. Fortunately, the Frigidaire aced our temperature tests and it delivered superb energy efficiency, which was good enough for a spot on our recommended list. It's also self-defrosting, so you won't have to remember to do this time-consuming task by hand.    

Any downsides? Like many self-defrost freezers, the Frigidaire FFFH17F4QT is fairly noisy, which could be an issue if you do plan to keep it in a living space, as opposed to the basement or garage. And it was subpar in our power outage test, measuring a freezer's ability to stay cold after the electricity goes out. If you plan to stock up on meats or other pricey foods, and blackouts are common, consider the Frigidaire FFU17M1QW, $700, a newly tested manual-defrost upright freezer that has one of the highest scores in our freezer Ratings  for withstanding power outages.

—Daniel DiClerico (@dandiclerico on Twitter)  

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

When you apply for a credit card or buy a smart phone, you have to sign what's usually a multipage contract with lots of legalese in tiny type. The contract is a take-it-or-leave-it deal: If you don’t sign it, you don’t get the card or the phone. So you sign it. No harm, no foul, right?

Wrong. Buried in the contract you signed there's often wording that says you’ve given up your right to sue the credit card or wireless company over any dispute you might have with it. That fine-print language is known as a forced arbitration clause, which typically says that you "agree" that a company can insist that any dispute that might arise between you and the company will be settled under the arbitration process.

That means, instead of going to court and making your case in front of a judge, you have to see an arbitrator, who is often chosen by the company. In an interesting—read: not consumer friendly—wrinkle, the company can keep choosing that arbitrator for repeat business, so there’s a huge incentive for the arbitrator to favor the company.

This arbitrator is typically not required to follow established law and procedure, and the arbitrator's decisions cannot be appealed, and are often kept secret. The fine print often says disputes will be considered by an arbitrator at a location chosen by the company, which could be far away from where you live.

Arbitration clauses also typically restrict you from joining with other consumers who have been mistreated in the same way by the same company. Because the costs for pursuing a claim effectively are typically more than the amount of a single claim, this restriction makes it far less likely that consumers will ever pursue claims. And that lets the company off the hook for its wrongdoing.

At Consumers Union, the policy and advocacy arm of Consumer Reports, we think forced arbitration is too often stacked against the consumer. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has issued a new report about this practice in consumer financial products, such as loans, cards and bank accounts.

The CFPB report finds that this restriction on consumers' ability to effectively pursue claims results in a windfall to financial service companies worth tens or hundreds of millions of dollars each year.

The report also found that more than 75 percent of consumers surveyed did not even know whether they were subject to a forced arbitration clause in their agreements with their financial service providers. And fewer than 7 percent of those covered by forced arbitration clauses realized that the clauses restricted their ability to sue in court.

“Basic legal protections have no meaning if companies can’t be held accountable under the law. The CFPB report clearly demonstrates why forced arbitration clauses are unfair to consumers and undermine the rule of law,” George Slover, senior policy counsel at Consumers Union, said.

The CFPB was created by the Dodd-Frank financial reform law to give a single agency authority to protect consumers in their dealings with banks and other lenders and financial-services companies. Dodd-Frank directed the CFPB to examine the prevalence of forced arbitration clauses in consumer financial contracts and the effect on consumers, and authorized it to regulate or ban the practice based on the findings.

Consumers Union is urging the CFPB to take action now to curb forced arbitration clauses so the consumer can freely choose how to resolve a dispute with a company.

“We hope the CFPB will now use its authority to prohibit forced arbitration from being a precondition for getting a credit card or a bank account,” Slover continued. “Banks and other financial services companies claim that arbitration is somehow better for consumers than going to court. But if that were really true, the banks and lenders wouldn’t need to force consumers to agree to it.”

This feature is part of a regular series by Consumers Union, the policy and advocacy arm of Consumer Reports. The nonprofit organization advocates for product safety, financial reform, safer food, health reform, and other consumer issues in Washington, D.C., the states, and in the marketplace.

Read other installments of our Policy & Action feature.

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

The Chevrolet Volt was recalled last week, ironically for being too quiet. It seems that when drivers use the Volt as intended, arriving back home from a round trip on electric power, the car is so quiet that some forget to turn it off.

The problem arises when owners park the car in an attached garage without plugging it in. In an emailed statement, GM describes the problem:

“If a driver exits the vehicle and inadvertently leaves the vehicle ‘on’ by failing to react to cues and warning chimes emitted by the vehicle, the vehicle’s high-voltage battery will drain after a period of time and the gasoline engine will begin to run. If the gas engine runs for a long period of time within an enclosed space, such as a garage, carbon monoxide could build up.”

GM is recalling 2011 to 2013 Volts to update the software so the car will shut off automatically after an hour and a half to reduce the potential carbon monoxide buildup. Volts from 2014 and 2015 already have the update.

Two people have been injured from the carbon-monoxide buildup, according to the GM statement.

We’ve seen similar problems with other hybrids, such as when one staff member drove to the office in our 2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid recently and parked it, not clear that the power was technically still on. Another staffer heard its engine running in the parking lot an hour later, as the engine fired up to provide heat on the cold winter day.

We think an automatic shutoff seems a sensible solution that makes sense for all cars, especially hybrids.

—Eric Evarts

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

St. Patrick's Day celebrations often involve raising a pint of green beer. But before you head out with friends, consider the sobering reality that 10,000 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes in 2012, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That's one every 51 minutes. 

Here are eight key survival tips:

1. Stay off the road. If you really want to avoid a traffic accident, or worse, simply don't be in traffic. This is especially true at night, when most alcohol-related fatalities take place. So stay home. If you're gonna party anyway, have the party at your house, make it a sleep-over for your friends' sake, or plan to stay over if you go to a friend's house for planned overindulgence. Be sure to arrive at your evening destination during daylight hours.
2. Use a designated driver. If you have to party at night, arrange for a designated, sober driver. It's best if the designated driver is selected before the party, and, of course, is a safe and reliable driver to begin with. When all else fails, take a taxi home.
3. Be a designated driver. Stay straight, save lives. It's that simple.
4. Know your limit. Will drinking two beers in one hour impair your driving? It could if you weigh 130 lbs. or less. Maybe not if you weigh 160 lbs. or more. Intoxication is legally measured by blood-alcohol content, or BAC. Any individual may process (metabolize) alcohol faster or slower than average. On the whole, alcohol Impairment is present in the average adult when the BAC reaches .05 percent. The legal limit, meaning the point at which you will be arrested for drunk driving, is .08 in most places. That's when the ability to accurately steer, brake, and judge distances is impaired for the average person.
5. Ride in a safe car. Some crashes are unavoidable, no matter what time of the year it is. If a driver--drunk or otherwise--swoops into your path, you want to be in a crash-worthy vehicle. In general, we recommend people purchase vehicles that have performed well in both crash tests and our own dynamic evaluations. Understanding no one will buy a car for just one night on the town, consider taking a larger, more modern vehicle over an older model with fewer safety features at this time of greater road risk. (If you want a sobering reality check, see our safety ratings, as well as crash test videos.)
6. Wear seat belts. Wearing your safety belt is the single best insurance against injury or fatality in any kind of crash.
7. Ride in the back seat. Sometimes you can't choose the vehicle you ride in or who drives it. But usually you can choose where to sit. In most crashes, the rear seat is a better place to be than the front. Be sure to have the head rest properly elevated and wear a seat belt.
8. Watch out for the other guy. If you see someone on the road who appears to be under the influence, don't take chances. Get the plate number and call 911. You may be saving someone's life.

Sober reminder: Don't live to regret
Party time can end pretty suddenly when a drunk driver kills or maims himself, passengers, and/or people in other cars or pedestrians. The masculine pronoun is used intentionally: In the majority of alcohol-related deaths, the drunk driver was a man. Alcohol-related traffic deaths aren't limited to drivers, though. Alcohol involvement—for the driver and/or pedestrian—was reported in 49 percent of all fatal pedestrian crashes in 2013. Tipsy pedestrians are a risk, too.  

Be safe and enjoy the holiday!

—Gordon Hard

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Consumer Reports’ vacuum Ratings, like most results we provide to our readers, are sorted by overall performance—stressing the comprehensive efforts that go into our tests. But sometimes it’s all about the money. You can filter results in our Ratings to select by price, but here’s a shortcut to the best of our recommended vacuums that cost $150 or less. The five that follow are all upright models, which are cheaper on average than canister vacuums.

Hoover WindTunnel T-Series Pet UH30310
This $150 bagged upright packs impressive cleaning and pet-hair pickup into a low-priced, lightweight (17-pound) package. Carpet and bare-floor cleaning are both very good. And true to its name, the Hoover had superb pet-hair pickup. Key features include manual carpet pile-height adjustment, which we prefer over automatic systems for deep-cleaning carpets, and a brush on/off switch for bare floors. You do give up suction control for gentle cleaning of drapes. And adjusting the pile height requires you to bend downto reach the front of the vacuum.

Hoover WindTunnel T-Series UH30300
Impressive cleaning in a $140, lightweight package (only 16 pounds) makes this bagged Hoover an appealing choice. It's also superb at sucking up pesky pet hair—a plus for dog and cat owners—with strong airflow for tools. Key features include a brush on/off switch and manual carpet pile-height adjustment. But there’s no suction control for drapes. And here, too, you need to bend to adjust pile height.

Hoover WindTunnel T-Series Rewind Bagless UH70120
Fine cleaning and superb pet-hair pickup helped put this $130 bagless upright on our winner's list. This model also delivers lots of suction for tools, manual carpet pile-height adjustment, and a retractable cord—all in a relatively light machine that weighs just 18 pounds. Two things this value-priced model doesn't include: suction control for drapes and a brush on/off switch. And emptying a bagless vacuum's bin can be messy.

Eureka AirSpeed AS1000A
Eureka AirSpeed AS1001A Gold
We tested the Walmart-exclusive, bagless Eureka AirSpeed AS1000A, $120. The more generally available Eureka AirSpeed AS1001A Gold, $10 more, performs similarly but differs slightly in features. Impressive cleaning and pet-hair pickup help make the Eureka AirSpeed AS1000A an appealing model. It's also relatively light (just 18 pounds) and includes manual carpet pile-height adjustment. But the low price includes neither suction control nor a brush on/off switch.

Need a new vacuum?

In addition to these and other recommended upright vacuums, our vacuum Ratings include 45 canister vacuums—recommended models start at $250—and 20 hand and stick vacuums. We’re also testing new robotic vacuums. Be sure to see our buying guide for vacuum cleaners before you begin to narrow your choices.

—Ed Perratore (@EdPerratore on Twitter)

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Stocking up on all kinds of cleaners can give you sticker shock at the grocery store checkout. But you can make your house sparkle for less by relying on some homespun cleaning tricks that have stood the test of time. Here are 10 ways to save money as you do your chores plus some affordable cleaning products from Consumer Reports’ tests.

Go halfsies. When you buy a box of sponges or scouring pads, cut them all in half. Presto! You’ve automatically slashed your costs by 50 percent. The same trick also works for dryer sheets.

Banish dust with diapers. Old diapers make great dust cloths that won’t scratch surfaces. Our experts prefer diapers with an 8-ply thickness in the center and 4-ply on the sides. Fold the diaper in thirds so that it fits nicely in your hand. When one side gets dirty, refold to expose a clean surface. Diapers are soft and lint-free, and they can be reused again and again.

Raid your tool box. If your shower tiles look grungy because of hard-to-remove soap scum, skip the pricey bathroom cleaners. Instead, try scraping off the film with a plastic putty knife. It’s gentler than abrasives, too.

Instantly brighten interiors. Living room looking a little dingy? Dirty lightbulbs could be the culprit. Make dusting fixtures part of your regular cleaning routine. (Just wait until they’re cool first!)

Keep outdoor dirt out. A doormat at every entrance can reduce incoming dirt and dust by up to 80 percent. That means less frequent dusting, vacuuming, and carpet shampooing. For added protection, place one inside the door in addition to the one outside to capture the grit that can damage hardwood floors.

Sponge off pet hair. Instead of going through reams of lint rollers, try a damp sponge to remove pet hair from upholstery. Sponges are also great for getting into corners and crevices.

Sock it to plants. Ditch the disposable dusting cloths. Instead, dampen a cotton sock with water, and wear it like a glove to gently dust leaves.

Towel off granite countertops. For sticky gunk, wet a rag with hot water, then put it over the spot for a few minutes. The heat will loosen the stuff so that you can wipe it up.

Boil away clogs. Pour a gallon of boiling water down your tub and sink drains weekly. That will clear grease and soap buildup without the need for caustic chemical cleaners.

Take a shine to copper pots. Cut a lemon in half, sprinkle it with salt, and rub it on copper and brass pots to remove tarnish and restore sheen.

Bargain cleaners from Consumer Reports' tests

All-purpose cleaners: Pine-Sol Original liquid, $2.48 a bottle.
Paper towels: Bounty Giant, $2.24 per 100 square feet
Dishwasher detergent: Member's Mark Ultimate Clean (Sam's Club), 10 cents per load
Dish liquid: Ajax Lemon Dishwashing Liquid, $2.10 a bottle
Powdered cleaner: Comet With Bleach, $1.25 a carton
Laundry detergent: Member's Mark Ultimate Clean (Sam's Club), 12 cents per load

—Adapted from ShopSmart magazine

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Summer’s bounty of fruits and vegetables does more than tempt your taste buds; it can have a powerful impact on your health. When you have more choices, there’s a greater chance that you’ll eat more produce, and that’s likely to lead to a lower risk of chronic conditions, such as heart disease, most cancers, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.

To maximize the health benefits, make these four easy changes to the way you shop for, prep, and store your fruits and vegetables.

Be organic savvy

When you buy organic, you reduce your exposure to pesticides and support a way of farming that’s good for the planet. A new analysis by Consumer Re­ports’ scientists has good news for people who find that organic produce is unavailable or too expensive. It identified 23 conventional fruits and vegetables considered low risk for pesticide residue.

Many summer favorites (blueberries, cherries, raspberries, and watermelon, for instance) are on the list. But you might want to consider organic for nectarines, peaches, and peppers (sweet or hot) because they have a high or very high pesticide risk.

See our special report on pesticides in produce and use our interactive tool to help you make smart choices in the produce aisle. And learn about the cost of organic food (it's not always pricier).

Know when to cook it

“Vitamins and minerals are lost when some foods are heated,” says Maxine Siegel, R.D., Consumer Reports’ food-testing manager. “But for some fruits and vegetables, cooking makes the nutrients more available, so your body absorbs them better.”

Cooking asparagus, cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and peppers boosts levels of several antioxidants. And research has found that your body can extract more cancer-fighting lycopene from tomatoes if they’re cooked.

Make them last

Americans throw out almost 100 pounds of produce per person each year, on average, which isn’t good for the wallet. There are several ways to prevent produce from shriveling up and rotting before you can eat it.

Temperature and humidity are two key factors. Asparagus, broccoli, carrots, celery, grapes, lettuce, and spinach should be stored under cold, moist conditions. Put them in plastic bags that have holes, then in your refrigerator’s crisper. Stored that way, broccoli and spinach can last up to two weeks, lettuce up to three weeks, and carrots up to five months. Also, keep fruits and veggies separate. Many fruits, including apples, apricots, avocados, bananas, peaches, and plums, produce ethylene gas as they ripen, which can make other produce spoil faster­.

Buy local, wisely

When food shopping, two-thirds of Americans check to see whether what they’re buying is locally produced, according to a survey by the Consumer Reports National Research Center. That’s a good thing. “Fruits and vegetables are often the most attractive and health-promoting when harvested at the peak of maturity,” says Diane M. Barrett, Ph.D., a specialist in the department of food science and technology at the University of California, Davis.

Because it doesn’t have to travel as far to reach your table, local produce can be picked when it’s ready. But “local” isn’t a regulated term; each market can have its own definition. Nor does it automatically mean that an item is certified organic. Organic produce should be labeled as such, and ask the seller how it defines local.

—Ian Landau

Most Americans don’t eat enough produce. Maybe that’s because the “eat five to nine servings a day” advice seems daunting. But one serving is a half-cup of cooked vegetables, 1 cup of raw vegetables, or 1 cup or one piece of fruit. For people over 50, that’s 4½ cups of produce per day for men and 3½ cups for women.

To get enough:

• Grill fruit, which concentrates its sweetness. Try nectarines, peaches, pineapple, or plums with a little yogurt or ice cream.
• When making a salad, think “entrée” and prepare several servings. And go beyond lettuce and tomatoes.
• Add veggies to chili, omelets, pasta dishes, and soups.
• Don’t forget chickpeas, lentils, and other kinds of beans, which count as vegetable servings.

This article also appears in the June 2015 issue of Consumer Reports on Health.

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

The way a self-propelled mower handles depends on which wheels are being powered by the transmission. If you’re bagging clippings with a front-wheel-drive mower, the weight of the bag in the rear can cause the front wheels to lift, especially on a slope—meaning you end up doing all the pushing. Rear-wheel-drive mowers solve this problem, but steep hills can still pose a challenge, as can thick grasses such as St. Augustine and other southern varieties. These tricky situations are where all-wheel-drive mowers work best, and Toro has announced its first AWD mower, the $400 Toro 20353. The company joins Husqvarna and Craftsman, the only other brands with AWD models, but overall theToro performed the best.

The Toro's best cutting is in mulching mode, the most common for walk-behind mowers, but we found it impressive for bagging and side-discharge modes as well. We liked its premium, overhead-valve engine, which runs more efficiently and is easier to start than engines with side-valve designs, and there’s no-prime starting, too. This mower is one of seven we’ve seen with the Briggs & Stratton EXi engine, that we recently wrote about, whose oil should never need changing—though the manufacturer says you’ll still occasionally need to top it off.

Perhaps to keep the price lower in a machine that's sold at Home Depot, there’s no electric start. And because all four wheels are connected to the transmission, pushing the mower is easiest while the engine is running. Switch it off, and pushing it to your shed or garage can be a hard slog. We’ve seen this on every AWD mower we’ve tested.

There’s plenty more to talk about from our latest mower tests, so watch our news pages for further reviews. Be sure to check out our lawn mower buying guide for mowers and riders before viewing our lawn mower Ratings of 185 walk-behind models, lawn tractors, zero-turn-radius riders, and rear-engine riders. Our Ratings include survey-based brand-reliability scores.

—Ed Perratore (@EdPerratore on Twitter)

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.