When it's time to buy new forks, spoons and knives, look for pieces that are solid stainless steel from tip to handle. When it's time to get new utensils many years down the road, the 100 percent metal tableware pieces are easily and fully recyclable. Utensils that have wooden or plastic handles are not as easily recyclable, since the handles will need to be separated. Added bonus? Stainless steel pieces are also more durable and dishwasher safe, too.

Have you ever gotten credit card solicitation in the mail that feels like it has a new card in it, but when you open it, it's just a fake plastic card that reads "YOUR NAME" instead? While the envelope and letter that made up this junk mail can be recycled, that plastic card can't. Be sure to remove it from the package and throw it away. By tossing the fake credit card into the recycling bin with your junk mail, you risk contaminating a whole load. Toss it in the trash and then recycle the rest.

Sure, using a ceramic coffee mug at the office is a great way to avoid disposable cups, but they can be an unhealthy choice, since most offices don't have dishwashers. If you wash your cups using old brushes (or just swirl some tap water inside to get it clean), it can be filled with colonies of germs that can make you sick. To properly sanitize your coffee mug, fill it halfway with water and microwave it for about 90 seconds. This will zap germs and give you a clean cup you can use day after day.