5/9/13

To prevent clogs and deodorize sink drains, reach for a box of salt. Pour 1/2-cup salt (coarse salt works best) down the drain, and then pour a teakettle of hot water after it. The salt acts as a corrosive to scrub the drain walls, and the hot water will help flush clogs down the drain while also dissolving the salt. Salt's a natural deodorizer, so any foul odors will neutralize, leaving your drain clean and smelling fresher.

5/8/13

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.

5/7/13

Outdoor weddings are popular in the spring and summer months. When the bride and groom leave the ceremony, instead of littering with paper or causing health problems for birds who may ingest the dry rice, toss what the lawn already needs: organic grass or wildflower seeds. The seeds are inexpensive and a kinder alternative on the big day.