Many of us use a space heater as an energy-efficient way to add supplemental heat to warm up a room. Although the design of these little heaters has changed over the years to improve their safety, they still can pose a fire hazard. One important tip from the Consumer Product Safety Commission is that if you need to use an extension cord with your heater, use the 14-gauge heavy-duty kind. This type of cord (usually designed for outdoor use) ensures the electricity is properly grounded when you operate the heater.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

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