Stain eraser pens seem to be magical: When you get a stain on your shirt, just uncap the pen and rub it away. In minutes, the stain disappears. But these pens are not recyclable, and they have very little cleaning solution inside. Why buy it when you can DIY it? Mix 1 cup hydrogen peroxide, 1/2 cup clear liquid dish soap and 1 tablespoon baking soda. This combination is designed to lift stains and dry without any residue. Store it in a spray bottle, or invest in a small perfume bottle to stash your solution so you can treat stains wherever you go.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

One of the biggest sources of air toxicity in your home comes from your garage. A Canadian health study found that homes with attached garages had high levels of benzene (a chemical from gasoline), while homes without garages had little to none. To prevent toxins from leaking into your home, never start up a car in a closed garage, and don’t start lawnmowers, motorcycles or chainsaws, either. Keep the door from the garage to your home closed, and make sure the seal is as tight as possible.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

When your microwave oven is beyond repair, how do you dispose of or recycle it properly? It’s not as easy it as seems, since many communities do not allow you to throw it away in your curbside trash. Microwaves are considered e-waste, much like old computers and televisions. Since there are some hazardous materials inside a microwave oven, the best approach is to drop it off when your community has a household hazardous waste (HHW) collection day. Store your old microwave in a safe place (in a dry, covered area, like the garage) and wait until your next HHW day to properly dispose of it.