9/1/09

Here's a quick way to update a three-ring binder that you either use at the office or give to your child to take to school. Pick up some self-adhesive kitchen shelf liners from the home improvement store. Trace the dimensions of the binder -- the front, back and side -- and cut them out with scissors. Remove the backing from the liner and stick into place. Instant makeover.

8/31/09

With school just around the corner, now's the time to start thinking recycled products when shopping for new supplies. Look for pencils, notepads, reams of paper, ink jet cartridges, envelopes and even binders and folders that are made from recycled materials. Look for "post-consumer" waste, which comes from recyclables we put out for pickup. Also consider re-evaluating last year's supplies; if it's in good shape, why not reuse it?

8/30/09

This weekend, shop around for a new refrigerator if you have one that is more than 10 years old. Newer models use around half the energy as older ones. By replacing it with an Energy Star-rated model, you could save up to $75 annually on your electric bill. Make sure the store you buy your new fridge from will take your old one, too, and have it recycled.