Can you compost what’s in your vacuum dirt canister? It depends. If you use your vacuum on hardwood or solid floors and on natural-fiber carpets, it’s likely fine to dump the canister full of dust, debris and fibers right into the compost. But if you used it to clean wall-to-wall carpet (like nylon), it’s not safe for composting; adding those synthetic fibers to your compost can contaminate it. As always, when in doubt, toss it out.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

What condiments are safe to keep out on the counter, and what must go in the fridge? Generally speaking, if it has dairy, veggies or fruit in it, it must be refrigerated, and this includes things like vinaigrettes and the popular Asian sauce ponzu (because it contains citrus). Soy sauce, vinegars, oils, hot sauce and even peanut butter can be kept out, but never use the same knife to spread jelly and peanut butter onto a sandwich, as this can lead to cross-contamination and bacterial growth. Use separate knives, or always keep the PB and the J refrigerated.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you’re going for a walk in the woods and find a stray feather, is it OK to pick it up and take it home? Feathers may seem soft to the touch, but they can be covered in bacteria and feather-eating parasites that have the potential to make you sick. If you want to sanitize feathers, the simplest thing to do is to soak them in soap and water or spray rubbing alcohol (at least 70 percent isopropanol content) on them and allow them to dry naturally. Also, remember that collecting feathers from endangered or threatened species is illegal in many states (and countries).

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION