If you live in a climate that has freezing cold winter days, one of the biggest challenges for wildlife is to find fresh water to drink. You can help give birds and other animals a drink of water by investing in a solar-powered fountain that has a feature called a “water wiggler.” This prevents ice from forming and keeps the fresh water unfrozen. You can also find electric birdbath heaters to keep the water just warm enough to prevent freezing.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Did you stock up on too much hand sanitizer during COVID lockdown? The good news is there are myriad uses for it other than keeping your hands germ-free. One of the most ingenious is deodorizing smelly feet by simply rubbing a small amount of sanitizer on the soles; the alcohol kills the odor-causing bacteria. You can also clean digital devices like your phone, tablets and readers to disinfect them without causing damage or streaks. And your makeup brushes? Rub a small amount of sanitizer in the bristles and let them air dry before using.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

For many of us, the idea of leftover wine seems like an oxymoron, but if you do have a little extra vino from a party, you can use it to help your plants. The nitrogen content in wine is beneficial for plants, gardens and compost bins. Just pour the wine directly into a compost bin or dilute it with water if you are feeding it to plants to give the good bacteria a healthy dose of nitrogen. It’s a great way to put spoiled or stale wine to use instead of pouring it down the drain.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION