Every little bit helps to reduce waste and conserve natural resources. If you’re a habitual list-maker and you write everything down on paper, consider downloading a “list app” for your smartphone. One app, Google Tasks, is exactly that: It helps you create a customized task list of everything you need to do. The design is minimal, like a blank sheet of paper, but each task can have a subtask, and there’s no limit to the number of lists you can create, from basic “to-do” to grocery lists and more. Search your phone’s app store to see the wide variety of list apps; almost all of them are free.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Did you know Mondays and Tuesdays are statistically the best days of the week to fill up on gas? On average, gas prices rise by Wednesday around the country as demand is gauged and prices are changed to reflect it. And usually prices go up, not down. Also, don’t wait until you’re nearly out of gas to fill up. A gas tank that is half-full has less air inside the tank, which helps minimize evaporation as you’re filling up. Less evaporation means more fuel actually stays inside the tank, so you get the real value of gas that you’re paying for.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

A natural loofah sponge is an eco-friendly alternative to plastic ones for use in the shower. But over time, a natural loofah can become a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. While biodegradable, a loofah can be cleaned and disinfected. The simplest method is to take a wet loofah and microwave it on high for about 90 seconds. This will eradicate germs and leave the loofah smelling fresh and clean. Just be sure there are no metal parts, and keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t dry out completely in the microwave.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION