Freezing conditions outside may not be ideal for enjoying the great outdoors, but they are perfect for eradicating potential pests from your household items. Simply lay a tarp outside and cover it with items you can’t launder easily, like pillows, throw blankets, toys, shoes and books. The harsh temps will kill bed bugs, dust mites and any other pesky critters lurking inside. Large items need as much as four days to properly freeze, so if you have the opportunity to take advantage of an extended cold spell, consider a secure location like an unheated garage or shed for this winter detox project.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Are you trying to kick the plastic water bottle habit? It can be hard when you travel, which is why the bare-bones (but useful) website WaterAtAirports.com was created. It’s a list of airports all over the world that have refillable water stations. The forum is moderated and curated by green-minded jetsetters and tells you exactly at which terminals, gates and locations you can find water stations. Just bring your empty reusable water bottle through security and you can stay hydrated on the go.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you want to help save elephants from extinction, the easiest thing to do is to never, ever buy ivory products. Even if the ivory item is marketed as “antique,” the reality is the majority of ivory is less than three years old. You should also only purchase coffee with bags stamped with the Forest Stewardship Council mark of approval. This ensures that not only is the coffee grown with fair trade practices in mind, but also it is done without destroying natural wildlife habitats critical for elephant survival.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION