Many of us plant gardens in the spring and might be wondering if we can use old potting soil in our gardens. If you left potted plants outdoors with the soil still inside, you can still mix it into the garden or actually reuse it for potted plants. Since potting soil is technically soil-free -- it's a mix of peat moss, perlite and compost -- all you have to do is mix it with fresh organic compost. You'll end up with a nutrient-rich mix perfect for either your garden or new houseplants. Just shake out the roots from the old plant before mixing in the new compost, and you'll be good to go.

Corroded pipes can contaminate your home pipes. But it can be hard to tell if your pipes are corroded, since they rarely leave a distinctive color when you take a shower or wash the dishes or your hands. One way to tell if your pipes need an inspection is to simply run a load of white laundry, like white towels and T-shirts, in the washing machine. Don't add any laundry detergent or bleach, and run it on the warm cycle so both cold and hot water are used. Then look at the clothes. Are there any new stains? Any discoloration (even the slightest) is a sign your pipes and water should be tested.

Did you forget to water a houseplant, or go away for a long time and come home to what looks like a dead plant? Before you toss it, give it a second look. Many plants will drop their leaves and flowers in an effort to stay alive. The plant does it to protect the root system, which really is the nerve center of a plant. (This is also true for many plants that are accidentally left outside in the frigid cold all winter.) To revive a plant, simply trim off all the dead leaves and flowers. Then give it a good soak of water and place it in a warm, sunny spot. In three weeks, you'll know if the plant is truly dead if it does not sprout any new leaves.