Terra cotta pots and other glazed outdoor pots can crack and break in winter months. But it's not the cold weather that causes the breakage -- it's moisture that can build up and freeze. To protect your outdoor containers, cover them in bubble wrap and then add a layer of burlap on top. Secure with natural twine to keep it all in place, and then move to an area away from moisture, like inside a garage or a covered patio. Plastic and wooden containers can be left untouched, since they are designed to last through tough winter conditions.

The fashion designer Eileen Fisher is a pioneer in the green fashion space. Recently, the company has started to accept used Eileen Fisher clothing at its Green Eileen locations, which it resells or recycles. To date, more than 200,000 items have been recycled, and the proceeds go to support women and girls' charities. For each item donated, customers are rewarded with $5 in store credit. With Americans tossing out around 70 pounds of clothing a year, this is one way to help reduce the waste and raise money for important causes.

Many of us have the ubiquitous packets of ketchup in our office or home junk drawer. If you think they are past their prime to use on fries, use them as metal polish instead. Squeeze the packets open on tarnished copper and brass cookware. Rub away with a cloth, and the brilliant color should shine through in a few minutes. Rinse and buff to finish up.