1/24/14

What do you do with reusable shopping bags if you have too many or have worn a few out and need to replace them? Don't toss them in the trash; instead, donate them to be recycled into new reusable shopping bags. One of the biggest makers of reusable bags, Chicobag, has a recycling program that accepts all types of reusable shopping bags in any condition. Bags in good condition are cleaned and donated to low-income families. Worn-out bags are woven into new products like aprons, rugs, journals and -- yes -- new bags. Learn more at chicobag.com.

1/23/14

Calgon, take me away. If you shower for more than six minutes, a luxurious bubble bath will actually use less water. A typical shower uses about 5 gallons of water per minute, while a bath uses around 30 gallons of water total. If you want to linger to enjoy the warm water, take a bath instead. And here's a tip to save even more water: Wash the family dog in the bath after you've taken yours. Just be sure to not use any harsh soaps when you luxuriate in the bath first!

1/22/14

Here's a healthy habit to get into: Wash your reusable water bottles. Over time, reusable bottles can harbor unhealthy bacteria that can make you sick. Every few days, use your dishwasher to sanitize both the bottle and cap. If your bottle isn't dishwasher-safe, you can also fill about one-fifth of the bottle with white vinegar and the rest with water. Let it sit overnight and rinse it out in the morning so it's clean and almost as good as new. When it's time to replace it, be sure to recycle it if you can.