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.

When you bought your car, you may have purchased it based on the miles per gallon it averages. But do you wonder if your car is actually getting the maximum fuel efficiency? The free app Mileage Keeper tracks your car’s fuel economy. Just enter your odometer reading, fuel amount and cost for each refueling. It keeps track of how you’re driving and averages what your actual MPGs are. This app can help you improve driving and reduce wasteful habits to get the most out of your car.

If you have old photographs that you’re tossing out, be sure to keep them out of the paper recycling bin. Even though photographs are printed on paper, they are not recyclable. Photographic paper contains a thin layer of polythene, which gives the photo its glossy or matte finish. This polythene is like a plastic coating, which makes the photo durable. And it’s this coating that can contaminate an entire load of paper recyclables. If you must throw out old photographs, toss them into the trash -- or see if there are family members who may want the photos for their own albums.