With close to 500 locations, Batteries Plus retail stores are worth seeking out, even if it’s just for this reason: They recycle nearly every type of lightbulb. This includes typical CFL bulbs and harder-to-recycle tube, circular and U-bend-style fluorescent bulbs. You can also recycle old-fashioned incandescent bulbs and a whole host of specialty bulbs at the stores. And, yes, they accept a large variety of batteries for recycling, too, including those that come from cars, phones, laptops and cordless products.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

It’s common knowledge that LED (light-emitting diode) bulbs are the most energy-efficient and long-lasting bulbs out there. And they contain no dangerous chemicals, making them one of the safest, too. But eventually, even LED bulbs burn out and need to be replaced. The good news is that LED bulbs are recyclable, and there are many drop-off points at stores that will accept them. But if you can’t find any, don’t fret over tossing them in the trash. Unlike CFL bulbs, there’s nothing dangerous about LED bulbs going to a landfill.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you find a car tire is slowly losing pressure and needs to be filled up with air on a regular basis, you may have a small puncture. This is usually when a nail ends up jammed into the tire and very slowly releases air over time. To save your tire, all you have to do is remove the nail and fill the small hole with a tire sealant. The inexpensive liquid fills the hole and lasts for two years. It’s a simple solution to prolong the life of a tire without having to replace it right away.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION