Appliance repair professionals want you to know something: Those conventional plastic dishwashing pods are ruining your machine. The water temperature inside your machine does not get high enough to break down the plastic material, so remnants are left behind that clog pumps and drains and slow down the basic functions of the machine. Beyond lessening the lifespan of your dishwasher by gumming up all the internal parts, the pods wreak havoc on the environment by releasing microplastics into our water. Opt for plastic-free tablets or dishwashing powder instead.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Did you know it takes about 20,000 liters of water to produce one new T-shirt and jeans? The United States produces 34 billion pounds of textile waste every year -- about 100 pounds per person -- that is sent to landfills. One way to cut back on waste is to swap clothes. Make a pile of lightly worn clothes and shoes and try to find someone who wears the same size as you. By reusing clothes, you gain new pieces but also extend the life of otherwise unwanted clothes.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

While it’s nice to have real houseplants indoors to add some greenery and freshen up the air, there are certain common types of plants you should avoid if you have pets. English ivy is a popular indoor choice because it’s easy to grow and it grows quickly, but your pet can experience serious health complications if it chews on the leaves. Easter lilies and daffodils are popular in the spring, but the flowers and even the pollen can cause serious damage to cats. Finally, pothos is a common houseplant, but should be avoided due to its toxicity.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION