Ever open a bag of microwave popcorn before zapping it? If you do, you’ll find a brick of kernels encased in a chemical cocktail of fats, artificial flavors and colorings, all encased in a nonstick bag that has the chemical bisphenol A (BPA) -- the same toxin being phased out of nonstick cookware. But there’s no need to stop eating freshly popped popcorn. Popping corn on the stovetop is a breeze, and it often involves just a little fat and a pot with a lid. Even loose kernels can be microwave popped: Just place a small amount inside a brown paper bag and microwave for a few minutes. You’ll have hot, fresh and healthy popcorn in no time flat.

The next time you make a roast or bake a batch of cookies in your oven, don’t let the hot air inside go to waste. After you’ve removed whatever you’re cooking, give the inside of the oven a liberal spray of a water-and-white-vinegar solution. Do this quickly, shut the door and let it sit for 30 minutes. As the vinegary solution evaporates, the inside will steam and help loosen stubborn stains and marks. After 30 minutes -- or when it’s cool enough inside -- just use a sponge or microfiber towel to wipe up the greasy mess.

During the winter months, hundreds of thousands of tons of deicing salt is used to make roads and sidewalks safe. Unfortunately for plants, salt is the enemy and can cause serious damage or kill them outright. When choosing plants for landscaping near sidewalks and roads, look for salt-tolerant plants. These are identified in many online directories of plants that are appropriate for your region. For people in warmer climates near the ocean, these same plants can also be perfect for your garden when marine winds carry salt-laden breezes your way.