When you want to get your whites white on laundry day, there are plenty of reasons to skip adding chlorine bleach to the wash. Numerous studies show that bleach can have an adverse effect on respiratory health, and it’s highly corrosive to the skin and eyes. A much safer alternative is to use hydrogen peroxide, which breaks down in water and uses oxygen to naturally whiten. One cup of hydrogen peroxide with regular laundry detergent is a safe, natural alternative to bleach.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Moving? When you’re in need of cardboard boxes, you may experience some sticker shock when you go to purchase them. But you can score free moving boxes in your community with a little research and ingenuity. Websites like FreeCycle and Craigslist are always good places to check; use the “Wanted” section to ask for boxes. Usually people who have completed a move are eager to get rid of their boxes. And U-Haul has a service called “Customer Connect” that lets you search for free moving boxes near you; just enter your ZIP code at uhaul.com/Exchange.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

One of the easiest ways to freshen up a smelly garbage disposal is to reach for two kitchen staples: white vinegar and lemons. White vinegar and lemons contain acids that help neutralize odors naturally, but when you pour straight white vinegar down the drain, it doesn’t have a chance to actually do its job properly. So try this: Fill an ice cube tray with a mixture of cut-up lemons and white vinegar, then freeze it. Pop a few frozen cubes into the disposal, turn on the water and turn on the disposal. It’ll deodorize and sharpen the blades at the same time.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION