Even with warmer temperatures outside, there can still be some nights when freezing temperatures could affect potted plants and seedlings in your vegetable garden. To protect your plants at night, upcycle old bubble wrap into mini greenhouses. Since the air bubbles in the wrap help retain heat and allow sunlight in, you can insulate your plants by simply running sheets of bubble wrap on top or around the base of the plant. When you’re done with the wrap, pop the bubbles and toss the sheet into the same bin that accepts plastic shopping bags for recycling.

There are an estimated three dead cellphones in the junk drawers of every American home today. It’s believed that over 500,000 phones are replaced every day in the United States, which means one thing: This technology should be recycled. The company EcoPhones wants to help solve this issue and help charities, schools and churches raise money, too. The company pays for every old phone it receives, no matter if the phone works. It also accepts inkjet cartridges and tablet devices for recycling. To learn how to end e-waste and raise money, visit recyclingfundraiser.com.

Before you pack up your winter accessories, give them a good wash or have them professionally cleaned. These items rarely get washed but are often worn the most during the cold, harsh months. Dirt, body oils, germs and bacteria accumulate on the items. Storing them unwashed can lead to deterioration and odors that you’ll discover when the winter months come around again. Most items can be washed in the washing machine and then hung to air-dry.