Who knew that hours of online video game playing could actually be used to raise money for a great cause? The organization Extra Life unites thousands of gamers around the world and raises money for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. Much like the runners in charity marathons, gamers sign up sponsors for tournaments and turn their play into fundraising. To date, over $30 million has been raised to help children in need all over the country. To learn more (and play!), visit extra-life.org.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Those little disposable hand warmers that are activated by exposure to air may not be recyclable or rechargeable, but there is a use for them after they’ve given you some warmth. While the hand warmers may be non-toxic, they sadly are disposable. Before tossing your hand warmers into the trash, consider using them to deodorize the inside of your shoes. One of the main ingredients in the warmers is activated carbon, which is also a natural deodorizer. And since the mesh pouches let air through, the carbon can easily absorb odor.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

A clothing dryer at home takes up about 6 percent of your home’s total electricity usage. A very easy way to reduce that and save electricity is to line-dry your clothing. But that doesn’t have to mean running a line in the backyard at all. For smaller loads, wash clothes and spin-dry them to remove as much water as possible. Then simply hang the clothing on hangers and let it air-dry overnight inside. During the winter months, the warm, arid atmosphere inside expedites drying. One benefit: Most clothing will air-dry wrinkle-free.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION