Owning a backyard pool comes with responsibilities, and one of the best things you can do to help save money and water is to invest in a pool cover. If you don’t cover the pool, it will lose about 7,000 gallons of water every year on average. The simple act of covering the pool can reduce evaporation by as much as 95%. And covers also use the power of the sun to help warm the water, which helps to further save energy and money.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If your reusable water bottle has an odor, before you toss it for a new one, give it a very thorough cleaning. Fill the bottle with warmed-up white vinegar (heat it up in the microwave) and add a little baking soda. Shake vigorously. Then refill the bottle halfway with water and ice cubes and shake vigorously again. The combination of these ingredients will help break up grime, deodorize and sanitize at the same time.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Did you know 1 in 6 Americans struggles to buy food at some point in the year? And approximately 40% of the U.S. food supply is simply thrown away, which contributes to overflowing landfills and greenhouse gases. One retailer -- Sprouts Farmers Markets -- is diverting edible unsold food to local food banks, which then redistribute the food to people in need. To date, more than 23 million meals have been given. To do your part, support retailers like Sprouts who are working to cut waste and help others.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION