Why buy it when you can DIY it? Packing peanuts are a common household item people save or receive during the holidays when getting shipments at home. Instead of stringing popcorn as garland, think packing peanuts instead. Use a needle and thread to string each packing peanut one by one, then decorate the tree or mantel with your lightweight (and free) garland. Have fun! Alternate white, green and pink Styrofoam packing peanuts to make interesting patterns.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Medical waste should always be disposed of in bins that are designed to store and transport the waste without the risk of harming another person. When disposing of medical waste at home, some may think it’s fine to use a sturdy, rigid plastic bottle like a laundry detergent container. The problem is that these containers are often compressed in garbage trucks, and waste like needles can project or fly out. This can scatter on the streets and also harm workers who collect the waste. Always use the right containers to keep everyone safe.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

There’s a viral tip encouraging folks to “speed up” their composting by tossing veggie peels, old fruit and even newspaper into a blender with water to make an organic slurry. The idea is straightforward: The blender has done the work of composting by breaking down organic matter into very small pieces, so, according to the tip, it’s safe to pour from the blender right into the garden. The reality is, you don’t want to do this. The natural sugars are intensified in a blender, and when poured directly into the ground, they burn up, which can cause plants to die and earthworms to flee. Composting is meant to be slow and steady.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION