If you have a backyard pool, it can be a real energy hog to keep clean, heated and running. One way to cut back on energy usage is to reduce the pool filtration time by 30 minutes at a time. Keep reducing the pool filtration time in 30-minute increments until you notice the pool water needs to be cleaned. Instead of having the filtration running 24-7, you may find you can cut the filtration time by as much as two-thirds, which will still keep your pool clean and reduce the amount of energy used in upkeep.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Flimsy metal hangers you get from the dry cleaner can easily be returned to be reused, and they can be placed in your curbside recycling bin to be recycled. But you can also upcycle the hangers into stronger, no-slip hangers by wrapping pipe cleaners around the wire hanger. The wire inside the pipe cleaner will grip tightly on the hanger, and the fuzzy side of the pipe cleaner will help hold on to whatever you’re hanging.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you have a memory foam pillow, yes, you can wash it. First, resist the urge to place your memory foam in the washing machine. It will tear into small pieces and the pillow will be ruined. Instead, rinse the pillow under cool water and gently squeeze the saturated water out of the memory foam. Never wring or twist the pillow; this can cause tears and ruin the shape of the pillow. When the pillow is still damp, allow it to completely dry out in a ventilated area, like on top of a rack or on a towel near a sunny spot. Do not place it in the dryer.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION