Do Just One Thing

We spend a lot of time indoors during the winter months, so it's important to take simple steps to have the healthiest indoor air possible. According to a story published by Harvard Medical School, reducing indoor allergens can help alleviate respiratory problems many people face, especially in the colder months, when opening a window isn't ideal. The study notes that "most of the things that cause problems are odorless," so it's hard to tell if your air quality is good or bad. Tips to help: Vacuum at least twice a week to collect dust, dander and mold. And even if it's cold outside, open a few windows once in a while to let in some fresh air.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

It's a popular question worth revisiting: Is gift wrap recyclable? The answer is yes and no: It all depends on the type of wrapping paper you have. If the gift wrap feels like regular paper, has a matte or glossy finish and just has a printed pattern on the paper, it is recyclable with regular paper. If it's a fancier paper that's textured or glittery, or has foil or anything that is clearly mixed into the paper to embellish it, it's not recyclable. To prep gift wrap for recycling, be sure to remove excess tape, and never add bows or ribbons to the recycling bin.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Do you live somewhere that's incredibly cold during the winter months? It's probably a good idea to take a few minutes to winterize your water lines to protect your pipes and prevent damage from frigid temperatures. Start by draining and disconnecting any outdoor garden hoses and AC pipes. If there's any water that's pooled near your central air systems, drain it and shut off the AC water valve. And if you use window AC units, uninstall and store them inside to help seal up your windows and prevent chilly drafts.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION