Microfiber cleaning towels have become popular as a cleaning tool because they grip dirt and bacteria, can be used on a variety of surfaces and are seemingly infinitely reusable. But new studies have shown that washing microfiber cloths in the washing machine leads to small strands of synthetic fibers washing down the drain and into our aquatic ecosystems. To avoid this (and disinfect microfiber towels), try microwaving them. Simply placing a damp cloth in the microwave on high for a minute will clean and disinfect it and won’t shed fibers into our waterways.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Sure, it’s a superfood, but turmeric is also a super-stainer. If you get turmeric on fabric, don’t worry: You can get the deep orange color out. First, don’t try to rinse it out with hot water; this will only set the stain and make it nearly impossible to remove. Instead, mix a combination of equal parts dish soap and white vinegar and dilute it with water. Then dip a clean cloth into the solution and dab it onto the stain. Keep dabbing until the turmeric lifts up and is gone for good.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

When you slice open an avocado, don’t toss the skin into the trash or compost bin right away. The skin, which still has some avocado fruit and its natural oils on the reverse side, is a fantastic instant beauty treatment for your skin. Simply rub the inside part of the skin on your own so the remnant avocado is massaged in. It’s rich in vitamin E and potassium, which helps feed dry skin. The natural antioxidants in avocados help with dry, flaky skin and can help calm inflammation and clear up acne-prone skin, too.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION