Even in an age of digital reading, printed books are still in demand and can be donated if you're ready to make room on your bookshelf at home. The rule of thumb for donating books is this: If it has been two or three years or less since the book was published, donate it to your local library; they will resell the book to raise money for their valuable work. If it's older than that, donate it to a Salvation Army or Goodwill store, where it will be resold in the store. Either way you donate, be sure to get a receipt for tax deduction purposes.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

When you’re loading your dryer with freshly washed clothes, remember this simple rule: Don’t overload it. Yes, it’ll take longer to dry and it will use more energy, but drying large loads can damage the garments, create wrinkles and stress the fibers of the clothing. Decreasing the size of your dryer loads can help reduce energy use and lead to clean clothes coming out wrinkle-free. Also, determine which clothes can be dried on hangers in a humidity-free room, and air-dry them naturally. They’ll dry smelling fresh and clean.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

While most foods have an expiration date, there are some everyday staples that never expire. While there are obvious ingredients like sugar and salt that can last indefinitely, white rice also lasts for decades. Unlike brown rice, white rice has no bran oil in it, so it can last up to 30 years in dry conditions. Maple syrup and honey are two sweeteners that last exponentially longer than other foods because they have natural preservatives and low water content.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION