When you get fresh flowers as a gift, you can compost them after the petals have faded. Organic or conventionally grown stems can be added right to the compost heap; throw the whole bouquet right in, and it will break down into beneficial mulch. But do not pour the water in the vase on top of the compost heap. Most florists use a powdery biocide in the water to help keep it fresh by killing bacteria. This same chemical agent can be harmful to a healthy heap and can kill microbes in your compost.

Did you know that the majority of phone calls (around 80 percent) received by the Humane Society’s Wildlife Services are about wild animals trapped inside someone’s home? The squirrel is the No. 1 culprit, and it gets inside through small cracks and open windows. Since squirrels tend to use trees as their “highway” of sorts, one of the easiest way to prevent squirrels from invading is to trim trees. Cut branches so they are at least 6 feet away from your home. This does two things: It makes your home less squirrel-friendly and also protects it during storms.

The jury is still out regarding whether antibacterial gels and hand sanitizers work, or if the chemicals used in them are bad for you. But the reality is that there’s no need to use chemical sanitizers when there are all-natural alternatives that can not only help you stay healthy, but smell good, too. When shopping at your health-food store, take a look at small vials of essential oils. Oils like tea tree, peppermint and rosemary have natural antibacterial properties that disinfect on contact. Carry a small bottle, put a few drops in the palm of your hands and rub away. These oils disinfect and leave a really pleasant scent.