When it comes to recycling your cans, bottles and boxes at home, the most commonly recycled plastics are the ones marked with a No. 1 or No. 2. But there are certain No. 1-marked plastics -- specifically black plastic microwavable trays -- that are most likely NOT recyclable. The distinction is simple: It's usually marked No. 1s, not just No. 1. This is a different grade of plastic resin that is harder to recycle. Your trash provider should be able to tell you if they accept No. 1s plastics, but if in doubt, toss it.

Once you open a tin can containing food like tomato paste, fruit or sardines, you may think it's fine to cover the opening with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the fridge. But once a tin can is open, it's not a safe food storage vehicle. Bacteria can grow along the edges of the can in no time at all, and highly acidic foods can take on a metallic taste. If you have leftover ingredients after opening a can, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Then be sure to toss the can in the recycling bin.

It can be nearly impossible to tell from just taste and smell if the water coming out of your tap is safe to drink. The good news is, if your home uses public or municipal water lines, your water provider can give test results for the water for free. Just look up the number on your water bill and call them up. Public water must be tested on a regular basis, and the company must offer customers something called a Consumer Confidence Report, which details the results of the testing. Many of these reports can also be found on the Environmental Protection Agency's website, epa.gov.