If you travel a lot, you may amass a collection of plastic shower caps. These can be handy double-duty items to use in your suitcase to wrap the bottom of your shoes. Since shoes are one of the biggest collectors and spreaders of dirt, chemicals and lead, wrapping them with shower caps helps prevent your clean clothes (and the inside of your suitcase) from getting dirty. Save them once you get back from your trip to reuse when you start your next journey.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Do you want to heat up some leftovers or cook a side dish of veggies for dinner? Instead of using an oven or toaster oven, consider using a microwave. The reason is simple: A microwave uses up to 50 percent less energy than a conventional oven. And modern microwaves have improved cooking results, often resulting in perfectly steamed, poached, roasted and sauteed finishes that taste just like you made it in a traditional oven.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

When the sun is shining bright into your kitchen, take a look where it shines. Is it on your refrigerator? When the sun’s rays come through the window, they generate heat. And when the sun is shining bright on your refrigerator, it can heat it up. When your refrigerator is warming up, it’ll counter the effect by using more energy to keep things cool (or frozen) inside. Over time, this wastes energy and increases your utility bill. Draw shades to block the sun’s rays and help keep your fridge running with as little electricity as possible.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION