Using a dishwasher is one of the most water- and energy-efficient (and easy!) ways to get your dishes, utensils and cups sparkling clean. But there's a good reason not to pre-rinse your dishes: In addition to water waste, modern dishwashing machines are designed to work harder when they detect grease, grime and food particles. If the bottom rack is too clean, your machine will assume its job is done and not wash your dirty top rack dishes properly. Plus, modern-day dishwashing detergent is activated by grease; it won't work properly if your plates are too clean.

If you have time to give to a worthy cause and want to find the right charity that could use your skills and time, check out volunteermatch.org. It's helped millions of people find places to volunteer by matching them with organizations that can use their skills to create real impact. Search opportunities in your city and scroll through specific listings based on date and charity type, and learn what the specific volunteer program requires from you.

Smelly car? Don't reach for air fresheners to deodorize your ride. All chemical air fresheners do is mask the odor, not neutralize whatever is making the unpleasant scent. Many used-car dealers employ freshly ground coffee beans to make the car smell nice. Just leave a bowl of coffee grinds in the car, and let the odors absorb through them. The coffee acts like a filter, cleaning the air and absorbing the smelly particles right into the grinds. The longer you let it sit, the better it will work.