There are myriad opinions about how to sanitize kitchen sponges, ranging from soaking them in bleach (yuck!) to zapping them in the microwave to using the hottest setting in the dishwasher to kill germs and bacteria. Whatever method you choose, one thing we all should do is rinse the sponge after using it and squeeze it as dry as possible. Then place it where it can completely dry out (like on a soap dish with slats). A damp sponge is an unhealthy one, since that pool of water will just become a breeding ground for germs and bacteria.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you want to avoid the expense (and chemicals) of dry-cleaning your clothing, consider investing in a handheld portable steamer to use at home. Using just the power of regular tap water, hot steam helps blast away wrinkles. But it also does much more. The steam is hot enough to eradicate odor-causing germs, so it helps freshen up things like sweaters and coats. You can also use it to freshen throw pillows, blankets, sofa cushions and even carpet. The key is to blast steam slowly over the item to fully saturate the fibers.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Reliable water sources for wildlife can suddenly become unavailable if you live in a climate with harsh, freezing temperatures. While an electrified birdbath is one way to help, it can be difficult and expensive to maintain, and also poses the risk of shorting out (which can hurt birds and small animals). The simplest idea: Just place a water source on the south side of your property, where the sun’s rays will be strongest during the day. It should help thaw just enough to be a source of much-needed water.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION