Got a dead houseplant? It can be so easy to simply pick up the whole thing and toss it into the trash, but its final destination shouldn't be a landfill, where it can't properly decompose. Instead, spread the dead plant and soil onto your lawn and simply run your lawnmower over it. You'll break up the organic matter into smaller pieces, which will decompose and help contribute to healthier soil and a better lawn. Such a simple way for a dead plant to give life to your backyard!

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

A fully loaded automatic dishwasher is the best way to be as water- and energy-efficient as possible. But if you have a partially loaded washer, gather these things around the house to give them a good clean and fill up your machine! Add hairbrushes and combs, which can get dirty from products and oil over time. Unscrew a showerhead and wash it in the top rack to remove mineral buildup and help it run like new when you reinstall it. And collect sponges and dish brushes to not only clean them, but disinfect them from all the grime and bacteria that builds up over time.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Did you know billions of plastic toothpaste tubes are used globally every year, and nearly none are recycled? It's because it's nearly impossible to recycle these tubes, since most curbside recycling programs don't accept them (the only recycler is a mail-in program that's expensive to participate in). When shopping for toothpaste, there are alternatives to plastic. Look for natural brands that package in aluminum tubes. They work just like plastic tubes and are designed to get every drop of paste out, but are fully recyclable, just like regular aluminum cans in your recycling bin.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION