01/26/12

According to the United States Agriculture Department, the average U.S. household throws out approximately 470 pounds, or $600, of food ever year. You can help prevent spoilage by keeping certain fruits and vegetables separate from each other. Many fruits emit ethylene, an odorless gas that quickens the ripening process. Keep fruits with lots of the gas -- like apples, avocados, bananas, nectarines, peaches, pears, plums and tomatoes -- separate from other produce to extend shelf life.

01/25/12

Here's a fun upcycling project to do with kids: Grab old milk cartons, oatmeal containers and food boxes, and turn them into craft supply organizers. Coat the outside with two light layers of chalkboard paint from the craft store and decorate away with chalk on the front. The chalkboard paint will hide any markings on the containers and give them a uniform look to display in your kids' rooms.

01/24/12

What kid-approved beverage in your pantry right now can also be an eco-friendly way to clean your toilet? Unsweetened orange Kool-Aid. The drink is loaded with citric acid, which can help break down stains inside the toilet bowl. Just sprinkle the powder from the packet into the bowl, swirl with a toilet bowl brush and let it sit overnight. Flush the next day to reveal a sparkling clean bowl.