With today’s economy still struggling to rebound, the arrival of the holiday season may be worrisome. Budgets already are strained without adding the extra purchases associated with Santa into the mix. Yet, this year there is an opportunity for some unique and useful gifts — things that involve services instead of the normal sweater or DVD. Giving those on your list the gift of any of these services can be a great way to give them something they may not buy for themselves but that they’re guaranteed to use.

Car washes may be perceived as a luxury item and be skipped, but during the winter season it is more important than ever to clean the salt and snow off of cars and tires. Shur-Kleen Car Wash offers VIP Prepaid cards that can be bought in varying amounts and used at any location, including Fort Lewis, Lacey, Olympia, and Lakewood. VIP Prepaid cards are sold only in-store.

Shur-Kleen co-owner Liberty Ryder stresses the positives of buying a VIP Prepaid card. “The cards don’t expire and come in a variety of packages to work for different customers’ needs. They are a practical, wonderful gift for a loved one. And you get your wash free when you purchase a gift card.”

Having your house cleaned by professionals can be quite a time-saver and stress reliever, especially for busy moms. Both Merry Maids of Tacoma — (253) 474-3688 — and Home Town Housekeeping of DuPont — (253) 964-3141 — have gift services in various amounts that can be tailored to fit anyone’s specific home and needs.

If you have a pet owner to shop for, consider purchasing a present for him or her and his or her furry friend at the Pet Brigade on Fort Lewis — (253) 912-4898. The Pet Brigade provides doggie day care, grooming services and boarding. If someone has an existing account you can simply add money to his or her balance to be used for any service, said Manager Desiree Kennedy. Or you can create an account for a new customer, and the Pet Brigade will issue a gift certificate.

Know someone who relies on mass transit to get to and from work? Pierce County Transit sells bus passes in daily, weekly and monthly amounts. Simply go online to www.piercetransit.org/fares.htm#passes or visit the Bus Shop in the Lakewood Towne Center. Please note, monthly passes are good for unlimited rides but only for the month or dates printed on the pass.

Make your gift giving count even more this year by going practical. Not only will recipients appreciate it, but you may even avoid frantic crowds at the mall.