Yes, even a broom needs to be cleaned periodically. In the winter months, you can make the process quick and easy by taking your broom outside whenever fresh snow has fallen. Sweep the broom through the clean snow a few times; the crystals will run through the bristles and dislodge dirt and other debris. Just be sure to do this when the snow is powdery rather than wet, so you don’t end up with a wet broom.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Any grease stains on a cardboard pizza box make it impossible to recycle, so do this to make your takeout eco-friendly: Ask for a sheet of aluminum foil. Have the pizza shop put the sheet of foil in the bottom of the box and lay the pizza on top of it. This does two things: It helps keep the pizza hotter for longer, and it prevents grease from leaking into the bottom of the box. A clean pizza box is a recyclable one! And don’t forget: Clean aluminum foil is also recyclable in your curbside recycling bin.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you have a problem with rabbits and other small animals digging up freshly planted flower bulbs from your garden, start collecting used plastic and cardboard berry containers right now. Dig a hole in the ground and place the berry container, insert the bulb inside and cover it with dirt. The container will create a barrier that prevents animals from digging up the bulbs, all while giving the flowers room to send out roots and grow.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION