The road salt that is used to de-ice roads during and after winter weather can lead to rust on the undercarriage of your car. The winter months are a good time to use an automatic car wash to clean your car; they are designed to not only wash the exterior of your car, but also the undercarriage. Remember: A car wash is more energy- and water-efficient than washing by hand at home, and the undercarriage wash helps extend the life of your car. And optioning for a wax seal now and then will help create a protective barrier on the outside of your car.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you travel a lot, you may amass a collection of plastic shower caps. These can be handy double-duty items to use in your suitcase to wrap the bottom of your shoes. Since shoes are one of the biggest collectors and spreaders of dirt, chemicals and lead, wrapping them with shower caps helps prevent your clean clothes (and the inside of your suitcase) from getting dirty. Save them once you get back from your trip to reuse when you start your next journey.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Do you want to heat up some leftovers or cook a side dish of veggies for dinner? Instead of using an oven or toaster oven, consider using a microwave. The reason is simple: A microwave uses up to 50 percent less energy than a conventional oven. And modern microwaves have improved cooking results, often resulting in perfectly steamed, poached, roasted and sauteed finishes that taste just like you made it in a traditional oven.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION