Do Just One Thing

Having a mouse in the house is more than a nuisance; it can actually be hazardous, since they can chew through wires and cause fires. To prevent mice, try a simple nontoxic tip like installing door sweeps on exterior doors. Also, look for holes on the outside where they slip in; anything larger than a nickel is enough space for a mouse to squeeze through. Plug the hole with steel wool and cover with caulk. And finally, keep firewood at least 20 feet away from the house, since it's the perfect place to nest and get easy access to run into your home if you've left the door open.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Here's my easy way to keep toilets sparkling-clean without the use of chemicals. Sprinkle into the bowl of the toilet 1/2 cup of borax and 1/2 cup of white vinegar, then let it sit for a full 60 minutes before scrubbing. The mixture will bubble and naturally remove stains and odors. Scrub with a brush and flush away. You can also put two denture-cleaner tablets into the bowl and let it sit overnight to really remove stubborn stains like mineral buildup.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Did you know that nearly 15 billion single-use alkaline batteries are sold worldwide every year? When you're gifting an electronic item that needs a battery, consider upgrading to rechargeable. Unlike alkaline batteries, rechargeables can be reused up to 1,000 times before needing to be replaced. And these batteries often only take about 15 minutes to fully charge. The long-term effect is dramatic: less waste to the landfill and less money wasted on buying new batteries. And don't forget: Rechargeable batteries are recyclable, too.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION