Ever go through your pantry and find a bag of sprouted potatoes? While they are perfectly fine to eat in that state, they may not be very tasty. If you’d rather not eat them, cut them up instead and use them to remove rust from things like cast-iron pans, hinges and other metal objects affected by rust. How does it work? The acids in potatoes break down the rust, and the skins act as an abrasive. Scrub away and reveal the gleaming metal underneath!

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Do you love radishes? If you love the roots, you will probably love the stems and leaves even more. First, yes: The leafy parts of radishes are totally edible. And they are delicious, with a slightly peppery taste that makes a wonderful addition to all sorts of cooking. They’re healthy, too, with magnesium, calcium and vitamin B6. Instead of tossing the stems and leaves away in the trash, use them for salads, soups and any dish to which you’d like to add a hearty green.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Did you know typical bandages are made from plastic or PVC, and that they can have a whole host of chemicals in the adhesive, too? There are safer alternatives to conventional bandages, including bamboo fiber and silicone. And while silicone is not biodegradable, it is hypoallergenic and non-irritating, and it is nontoxic to aquatic and soil organisms. Bamboo and silicone bandages aren’t easy to find right now, so look online for sources that sell them.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION