Here’s another reason to unplug your microwave when you’re not using it: You could start a fire if your microwave accidentally turns on when it's empty. A microwave uses a magnetron to create electromagnetic waves. It attacks the water molecules in food and creates a vibration, which creates heat and then cooks whatever you’re heating up. If there’s nothing inside the machine that can absorb the electromagnetic waves, they have nowhere to go but back to the magnetron, which can overheat and cause a fire. An unplugged microwave ensures it won’t accidentally turn on.

If reusable food storage containers have taken on a smell of something you stored weeks or months ago, there’s no reason to replace it. Simply create a solution of dried mustard powder and hot water, and let it naturally deodorize the container for you. Dry mustard powder has natural antimicrobial properties that can attack stubborn odors and stains. Use a teaspoon to a tablespoon (depending on the size of the container) of dry mustard powder and hot water to activate the mustard's natural cleaning properties. Once you rinse out the solution, your container should be as good as new.

Many kitchen exhaust hoods have a charcoal filter that naturally absorb odors. These filters are disposable and should be replaced over time. But did you know you can also reactivate the charcoal filter and reuse it a few more times? When the filter is full of absorbed odors and residual grease and smoke, simply give it a good wash with dish soap in the sink. Place it in a preheated oven set at 200 degrees, and let it dry out for 10 to 15 minutes. Turn off the oven and let the charcoal sit. This reactivates the cleaned charcoal and lets you reuse the filter one more time.