Dear Mary: Just a few days ago, I purchased a Ziploc Vacuum Sealer. It's still in the box, unopened. I could have kicked myself when I opened the newspaper and read your column on the FoodSaver vacuum sealers. Now, I'm thinking of returning the Ziploc machine and getting the FoodSaver. Before I go to the trouble, I want to know whether the Ziploc sealer is comparable, in your opinion. — Patti

Dear Patti: Honestly, I have never tested or reviewed the Ziploc machine because it does not include the one feature that is one of the most important reasons I have a vacuum sealing system in my kitchen: a jar sealer. I use the jar sealer more than any other FoodSaver feature because I love to store everything from dried beans to fresh fruit in ordinary 1- and 2-quart canning jars — the kind you may already have like Mason and Ball jars.

Let me describe how this works. Once you have put the contents in the glass canning jar (a jar of any size; either regular or wide-mouthed), lay the lid on the top of the jar. Apply the right-sized FoodSaver Jar Sealer (either regular or wide-mouth — I have both), fasten the accessory hose attached to your FoodSaver, and press the button. The sealer does its thing to remove all the air in the jar and use very strong suction to attach the lid. Once the lid is attached, pry the jar sealer off and you have a beautifully vacuum-sealed jar. This allows the contents to remain fresh and usable for months (and in some cases months and months). Store the jar as you would regularly, in the refrigerator or pantry.

Using jars that can be used over and over again make my FoodSaver even more cost-effective because the sealing bags are pricey. I do use them from time to time, but try to reuse the jars as long as possible.

I do love my FoodSaver, and I predict you will, too. My advice is to return the Ziploc.

Mary invites questions, comments and tips at mary@everydaycheapskate.com, or c/o Everyday Cheapskate, 12340 Seal Beach Blvd., Suite B-416, Seal Beach, CA 90740. This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of www.DebtProofLiving.com, a personal finance member website and the author of "Debt-Proof Living," released in 2014. To find out more about Mary and read her past columns, please visit the Creators Syndicate webpage at www.creators.com.