CONSUMERS : A Little Help With Writing Checks

Check*Mate is a lightweight check writer that’s handy for home or office use. The compact device--6 inches by 4 1/2 inches by 2 7/8 inches and weighing 1 1/4 pounds--prints numbers on personal- and business-size checks.

Check*Mate, made of heavy plastic, not only gives checks a professional look but also discourages possible alteration because it prints each numeral in red and black. You just set the amount on the digit wheels, place the check face down in the box, close the lid, then slide the shuttle lever across twice to print the numbers.

Check*Mate ($49.95, plus $3.95 shipping and handling) comes in brass-trimmed black, beige or burgundy and has a brass name plate that can be engraved. Upgraded models come with leather or wood inserts on the top and cost $69.95.

Made in the United States, Check*Mate is available through selected stationery stores; the Joan Cook catalogue, (800) 327-3799, or the manufacturer, Phase 72 Inc., 12152 Woodruff Ave., Downey, Calif. 90241, (800) 786-1597.

Formula for Removing Rust and Other Stains

If you’re having trouble removing rust, oil or antifreeze stains from your driveway, garage floor or sidewalk, consider DriveAway rust and stain remover from Eagle One, a California auto products manufacturer.

Unlike most other rust removers, the DriveAway formula, which contains a non-volatile etching acid, is non-fuming. You simply pour it on the stain, scrub with a stiff brush and rinse.

DriveAway rust and stain remover (suggested retail, $12.95 a gallon; $7.95 for a 32-ounce bottle) is available at Pep Boys, Sentry Hardware stores and many home-improvement outlets. If you can’t find it in your area, contact Eagle One Industries, 2231 Faraday Ave., Carlsbad, Calif. 92008; (619) 931-0784.

Working Out With a Real Dumbbell

Exercise enthusiasts should find the Dumbell Sports Bottle a fun reminder to drink enough liquids while working out. It looks like a real dumbbell and is made of durable black plastic.

The 32-ounce bottle is 12 inches tall and has a screw-on, vented cap and a flexible straw. Because of its shape, it’s easy to carry.

The Dumbell bottle ($4.95, plus $2 shipping and handling) is available from GerWayne UnLimited, Box 1256, Bayshore, N.Y. 11706.