Ever wonder why it’s important to rinse out your recyclables before putting them in the bin? It’s because cleaner cans, bottles and containers are worth more on the recyclables market. When recyclers get your trash, they separate it by type of recyclable (paper, plastic or metal) and then those are separated by how clean they are. The dirtier the container, the less valuable it is. By making rinsing a habit, you help keep recycling profitable. But if you’re in a store and leaving a soiled salad takeout box in the recycling bin, don’t worry: It’s less valuable to recycle, but it’ll still get diverted from the landfill.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Did you know over 1.5 million animals are euthanized in animal shelters every year in the United States because of overpopulation? One of the easiest things you can do as a responsible pet owner is to have your cat or dog spayed or neutered. Some veterinarians, however, do advise against traditional de-sexing of your pet, which they believe can create problems for your pet’s endocrine system. One alternative worth exploring is something called an “ovary-sparing spay,” which results in sterilization without endangering the endocrine system.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

The road salt that is used to de-ice roads during and after winter weather can lead to rust on the undercarriage of your car. The winter months are a good time to use an automatic car wash to clean your car; they are designed to not only wash the exterior of your car, but also the undercarriage. Remember: A car wash is more energy- and water-efficient than washing by hand at home, and the undercarriage wash helps extend the life of your car. And optioning for a wax seal now and then will help create a protective barrier on the outside of your car.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION