It can be hard to clean things like coffee grinders, small blenders and other kitchen tools that help puree and grind up things. Since soap and water can’t always be used, try the next-best thing: Throw in some dry white rice. The rice breaks down into a starchy powder that picks up leftover debris, and since the bran oil has been taken out of the rice, it won’t leave any residue. Just add a few tablespoons, blend away and voila! It’s all good.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

When it comes to kitchen countertops, laminate used to be the least-desirable choice. But it is a very eco-friendly option, and new designs mimic the look of pricey granite, stone and marble options. Laminate deserves a second look; new technologies use a special stamping process that gives laminate a soft, cool touch that mimics the feel of marble, and a white core means there’s no dark-brown edge, so it also looks just like marble. Unlike stone, marble and granite, which are mined deep out of the Earth, laminate is made with paper (often recycled).

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Spring weather means winter supplies soon will need to be stashed away for the rest of the year. If you have leftover de-icing salt, be sure to store it in a place where humidity and moisture won’t get to it. De-icing salt absorbs moisture, and if it gets too wet, it’ll turn into a giant, useless block of salt. You can store it in airtight containers or put the bag inside a plastic trash bag and put it somewhere dry, like the garage. Any salt you want to throw out should be disposed of as if it’s household hazardous waste.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION