Even though the holiday season is over, that doesn't mean you can't celebrate a greener, better year. When you were putting away your string lights, did you notice they've burnt out or have stopped working? Thanks to Christmas Light Source, you can recycle them and raise money for charity. The retailer works with a recycler, which splits the lights into recyclable copper, plastic and other metals and pays a small fee for the recyclables. Christmas Light Source then donates the proceeds to help local charities in Dallas. Learn more at Christmas-light-source.com.

Some of the hardest places to clean in the kitchen are cabinets and vents above the stove. Over time, grease can build up and create a sticky and stubborn mess that seems impossible to clean. Instead of reaching for harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive scrubbers, use this double-duty item: dish soap. Liquid dish soap is designed to cut through grease, so using it to clean these tough areas can do the job.

Many items in the kitchen that are stainless steel are easily recyclable. Items like metal flatware (forks, spoons and large serving pieces) can be tossed into your curbside recycling bin, and old mixing bowls and colanders -- if there are no plastic pieces -- can also be recycled. Even cooking utensils, like metal barbecue tools that were accidentally left out to rust, can be recycled. Large groups of stainless steel items can also be brought to scrap metal yards, where you'll get paid to recycle your items.