As the hot summer days turn cooler, trees shed their leaves in preparation for cooler temps. While a leaf blower is an easy way to manage fallen leaves, it isn’t very kind to the planet; it’s believed that gas-powered leaf blowers can emit as much pollution as cars. Clearly, a manual rake is the greenest option. But for many people, raking isn’t always the most doable solution, so try the next-best thing: an electric leaf blower. They don’t generate any emissions, are generally quieter and are now cordless, which makes them a breeze to use.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Buying used is an eco-friendly choice, but it’s not always the best one. When it comes to products designed to protect you, you should think twice about buying used. For babies and small children, never buy a used car seat. There is no way of knowing the history of the seat or if it’s been recalled for safety issues. If you can’t afford a new car seat, there are nonprofit programs that can help you get one, often for free. And second, never buy a used bike helmet. Once the helmet has been involved in a crash, it’s compromised and won’t protect your head as effectively as if it were new.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

There has been a huge resurgence of enthusiasm for vinyl records among music lovers and collectors, so your old box of records may actually be worth something. But before you take a giant box of vinyl to your local record shop, do a little research first. Check out the website popsike.com, which has over 15 million auction results for record sales. You’ll find that blockbuster albums from the 1980s, classical, opera and others are basically worthless. The ones that sell: pop, rock, 1960s, jazz, blues and even a little country. The site will give you a sense of what’s valuable for resale and what can be left back at home.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION