We’re not always pessimists on Consumerist. Why, sometimes we actually like silver linings, if only because it gives us a chance to complain about argyria. (Don’t take colloidal silver, people!) Today’s silver lining is that sales of bottled water “have fallen for the first time in at least five years,” says the Los Angeles Times. We’re apparently showing common sense and opting for tap water over branded and labeled water, proving that in a tough economy it’s hard to compete with (nearly) free.
common sense
![Cut Down On Medical Costs With These Tips](../../consumermediallc.files.wordpress.com/2012/06/doctor.png?w=300&h=225&crop=1)
Cut Down On Medical Costs With These Tips
One way to cut down on all your medical costs is to go exclusively to Dr. Mario, an impersonator of whom is pictured.
![Um, No, Herbal Supplements Will Not Fight Swine Flu](../../consumermediallc.files.wordpress.com/2012/06/pat_is_the_best.jpg?w=250&h=225&crop=1)
Um, No, Herbal Supplements Will Not Fight Swine Flu
The FDA wants you to know that herbal supplements have not been approved to fight swine flu, or really anything. Still, some internet pharmacies want you to believe that a pill of twigs is the answer to all your unlikely health ills. And like all good scams, some of their products are dangerous…
![How To Correctly Complain About Restaurant Service](../../consumermediallc.files.wordpress.com/2012/06/manunhappywithfood.jpg?w=158&h=151&crop=1)
How To Correctly Complain About Restaurant Service
David had a disappointing experience at a local…
![Best Buy: Video Games Are Not Toys](../../consumermediallc.files.wordpress.com/2012/06/best-buy-bs-coupon-thumb.jpg?w=300&h=164&crop=1)
Best Buy: Video Games Are Not Toys
Best Buy told Rob that his coupon for 25% off three toys did not apply to video games because video games are not toys. Sad and confused, Rob went home and searched for “toy” on Best Buy’s website. Hop across the jump to see what appeared.
![CPSC Issues Holiday Safety Brochure](../../consumermediallc.files.wordpress.com/2012/06/con_brokenchristmas.jpg?w=300&h=225&crop=1)
CPSC Issues Holiday Safety Brochure
Nancy Nord and the CPSC have published what might the densest collection of common sense “advice” we’ve ever seen: the “2008 Holiday Decoration Safety Tips” brochure, which you can download here if you need to. Among their tips: buy fire-resistant or non-flammable items whenever possible, don’t leave candles unattended, and don’t overwhelm the CPSC with “too much” power.
![U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Warns: “Kids Are Idiots.”](../../consumermediallc.files.wordpress.com/2012/06/hangman-anti-tip-kit-200px.jpg?w=200&h=198&crop=1)
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Warns: “Kids Are Idiots.”
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s newsfeed is a daily source of hilarity. “Barbecue recalled for fire hazard!” it warns. “Trampolines recalled for falling risk!” it hollers and cries. I rarely click though: the actual details could only disappoint. I like living in a world where the government needs to issue daily reminders verbalizing common sense.