Did you know that baking soda can expire? One way to test it is to simply spoon a little bit into a glass filled with white vinegar. If it fizzes, it's still active. If not, it's dead. But there's no need to toss it into the trash. There are lots of uses for baking soda around the house. You can use it as an all-natural abrasive on tough-to-clean areas like a stovetop. But one tip that's key for pet owners? Use it to neutralize accidents. If your dog or cat accidentally relieves itself on your hardwood floor, wipe up the urine, then sprinkle baking soda on top. It will absorb it and neutralize the acidity to prevent damage to your floors.

For much of the country, last winter was one for the record books. With spring here, take the time to give your car a thorough wash. At the automatic car wash, pay for the additional undercarriage wash option. During the winter months, deicing salts and grime can build up under the car. Left untreated, this can lead to corrosion or rust on your undercarriage. By thoroughly washing it off, you can prevent this damage to your car. Also, take an old toothbrush and brush off the white powdery residue on your car's battery. This is corrosion caused by winter weather. A dirty battery can prevent your car from starting.

With the blahs and chill of winter finally behind us, now is a good time to launder down feather items like jackets, gloves and comforters. But the secret to getting them extra clean and super fluffy? Be sure to wash them twice. The reason down feathers clump after washing isn't because they can't dry completely; it's because laundry detergent hasn't washed out of the feathers, which forces them to clump. So wash your down items with detergent, and then do it again with no detergent to get out all the laundry soap. Then dry each piece separately using tennis balls, which helps fluff the item. They'll be clean and ready for next winter.