It sounds like a smart idea: Use stain- and water-resistant outdoor furniture inside the house. And why not? Many outdoor furniture pieces are gorgeous enough to work inside. The problem is that the fabric used to be tough-as-nails outside is treated with chemicals that are high in volatile organic compounds. These VOCs can be emitted into the air and cause pollution indoors. Leave furniture and fabric designed for outdoor use outside, and instead look for natural materials like wool, canvas and cotton for indoor use.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

True tea connoisseurs say the best way to enjoy tea is to brew loose-leaf tea. When storing tea, be sure to keep it in airtight containers and away from heat and light. But also make sure to choose the right container. Wooden containers or those with rubber seals can actually impart unpleasant odors into tea leaves. Choose ceramic containers to store your loose-leaf tea so it doesn’t absorb other scents. If you store it this way, the quality should remain consistent over time.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

When composting, the general rule of thumb is no cooked foods go into the pile. But that isn’t always the case if you have leftover cooked vegetables and grains. If you sautee or fry vegetables using pure vegetable oils, you can easily compost the leftovers; if you use butter or have other animal products like cheese on top, don’t. The same rule applies to cooked grains like rice, pasta and even bread if they’ve been prepared without any animal fats whatsoever: Go ahead and compost them.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION