Keeping an extra car that is barely used can be a real money waster. The cost of registration, insurance, gas and monthly payments (if you don’t own the car outright) averages to about $10,000 a year in unnecessary expenditure. Plus, any maintenance to make it run smoothly adds to the money-wasting pot. Your spare car can make spare change: Sell it for extra money, and enjoy the savings. For city dwellers, a great alternative is the use of ride-share programs that allow you to rent on an as-needed basis.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Nocturnally migrating birds need nearly pitch-black conditions to make their way through the nighttime sky. With many of us turning our backyards into an extension of the house, it can seem like a fun, decorative idea to hang string lights and illuminate the yard. But these outdoor lights can distract and confuse birds in flight. Instead, try two things to help: Either be diligent about turning off all unnecessary lights at night, or limit the number of lights. Hanging lights (like string and cafe-style lights) are the worst offenders.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Every time you deposit a load of freshly washed clothing into the dryer, make it a habit to always empty the lint trap. This one simple act actually improves the efficiency of your dryer by .5 percent. While this may not seem like a lot, it does help you save a little money, and it also saves you time. A clean lint trap means it takes less time to get your clothes dry. Plus, it makes your appliance safer, because full lint traps can be a fire hazard. And don’t forget: Lint can be tossed right into the compost bin.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION