Giving to your local food bank is a great way to help those in need. And while the word “food” may be in the name, it’s not the only thing they need and request from their donors. Everyday essentials like toilet paper, dental hygiene items (like toothbrushes) and bundles of socks and underwear are also desired and very much in demand. And just like food, if you want to give these items, give new, wrapped and unopened packages when you donate. Lightly used items in any of these categories are unwanted and can’t be given away.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

When it comes to choosing a paint for your walls, don’t be fooled into thinking “low-VOC” paints are good for you or the environment. The reality is all paints are technically “low” in volatile organic compounds (the chemicals and odors in paint), so you really want brands marketed as “zero-VOC” as the cleanest option. And remember: These paints are only free of VOCs before they are tinted. Generally, the darker the color, the more VOCs it contains.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Here's something you probably didn't know you could compost: pencil shavings. The thin wood shavings with residual graphite (pencils today are lead-free) are perfectly fine to toss into the compost bin. Mix them with all sorts of degrading organic matter, and they'll break down into beneficial mulch for your garden in no time. You can even sharpen pencils over houseplants and just rake the shavings right into the soil.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION