Is it OK to take shells from a beach? The overwhelming consensus from environmental groups is a resounding “no.” It’s obvious that spiral-style shells are important to leave because they are literally homes for aquatic creatures. But while many may see no harm in taking broken shells or flat fragments as souvenirs, you should leave them, and here’s why: Many aquatic species use broken shells as armor or camouflage in the ocean, and birds often build nests with them. One thing that’s totally safe to collect is sea glass. It’s technically trash, since it’s broken glass tumbled soft in the ocean.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you have old multivitamins that are expired or have gone bad in your cabinet, don’t toss them down the drain. Simply dilute them in water and give your vegetable or flower garden some vitamin-infused H2O. Plants love the nutritional boost vitamins give them, and you’ll end up with higher yields of heartier and healthier fruits, vegetables or flowers. Some vitamins -- like vitamins A and E -- are tougher to dissolve and might need hot water to break down; be sure to let the water cool completely before giving your plants some vita-love.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Every morning, there’s one more thing you should bring into the shower with you: your reusable water bottle. Water bottles should be washed after each use, and one easy way to save water and time is to simply wash it in the shower. To disinfect the bottle, you need hot water and a little bit of soap. Just put a small amount of dish soap in the bottle and then fill it up with hot water from the showerhead. Shake, rinse and shower yourself off. Then let the bottle air-dry before using it again. It’s that simple!

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION