10/7/11

Pay close attention to your monthly electric bill. If you notice it going up, it may not be a case of rates going up but old appliances becoming energy hogs in your home. The older your refrigerator, stove or washing machine is, the more energy it needs to function on a daily basis. If you're thinking of replacing any of these, this bill could be a money-wasting sign that it's time to consider getting a more energy-efficient model.

10/6/11

Price tags that are stuck on something you bought don't have to be a pain to take off. Instead of using chemical degreasers, just reach for a bottle of white vinegar. Soak the tag in vinegar and wait a few minutes; it should lift right off.

10/5/11

Many of us use large shopping bags to fill with old newspapers and magazines for curbside recycling. The problem? Most shopping bags -- the kinds that are glossy or colorful with plastic handles -- do not recycle well in paper recycling facilities. It's best to pack your paper recyclables inside a grocery store paper bag or just bundle them with twine.