1/22/13

Ever wonder what to do with a lemon after you squeeze it for its juice? Before tossing it into the compost pile, use it to give your fresh produce like apples and pears a good cleaning. Simply rub the halved lemon vigorously over thin-skinned fruit to help break down dirt, impurities, waxes and other residue. The natural acidic nature of lemon will also help disinfect the fruit. Rinse, dry and enjoy.

1/21/13

If you're a big black tea drinker, save your used tea bags to keep your wood floors looking their best. Toss five to 10 used tea bags into a large pot of water, and bring it to a simmer. Cool the mixture, then use the tea-steeped liquid to mop your floors or rub onto wood furniture. The natural tannins in black tea will add extra shine, help diminish scratches and bring luster back to dull furniture.

1/20/13

Adding mulch to your garden or landscaping is an easy way to help plants thrive, since it locks in moisture and blocks out weeds. It can also be expensive: about $11 for an 8-gallon bag. Instead, get mulch for free. Your local parks and roads departments regularly haul away dead or fallen trees and grind them into mulch. It's free for the taking. If you’re worried the mulch may come with weed seeds, simply seal it in black garbage bags and let the sun’s rays exterminate the seeds. Spread the mulch, and reuse the bags for garbage. Savings: hundreds of dollars.