When you rinse fruits and veggies under a faucet, you’re actually making two mistakes: wasting water AND washing your produce incorrectly. The best method is to place your produce in a large bowl, fill it to the top with water and add a little white vinegar and baking soda, then let it sit for 10-15 minutes. The vinegar will help disinfect, the baking soda helps clean, and gravity will push dirt and debris to the bottom of the bowl. It’s effective and water-efficient.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Most dentists agree you should brush your teeth for about two full minutes to get your pearly whites perfectly clean. But if you’re a multitasker who brushes your teeth in the shower, you should reconsider that morning ritual. The reason? You’re standing in the shower for two full minutes, wasting water while brushing your teeth. That’s a waste of about 4 gallons of water every time you shower, which can equal hundreds of gallons of H2O down the drain every year.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you have used appliances that are still in working order, you can donate them to the Salvation Army to help someone in need. The organization will come and pick up your appliances, and you’ll also get a write-off for tax deduction purposes. Items they will accept typically include window air conditioners, washers and dryers, stoves, microwaves, refrigerators and modern-style televisions. To find out if a Salvation Army near you can pick up, visit satruck.org.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION