There are lots of reasons to ditch paper towels in the kitchen. Obviously, the waste aspect is a big one, but there are health concerns as well. White paper towels are bleached and can contain chlorine and formaldehyde residue. Even recycled paper towels can contain the hormone disrupter bisphenol A (which is used in thermal receipts, which can end up in the paper recycling process). Skip paper towels and opt for reusable microfiber towels instead.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

There are a lot of concerns about non-stick cookware with Teflon coating. If your cookware has Teflon on it, it’s safe to use as long as you follow a few precautions: Don’t overheat the pan, don’t use any utensils that could scratch the coating off and into the food, and don’t allow the pan to get too hot without food in it. If that seems like too much to remember, ditch it for cleaner alternatives. My favorite is a traditional cast-iron pan; when seasoned properly, it can be a non-stick wonder that sears, fries and browns food to absolute perfection, all without the worries of chemical residue.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Are you struggling to open your front door with a key that barely works? There’s no need to call a locksmith to come and fix it. Instead, go to your desk and grab a regular old pencil to help fix it. Rub your key with a pencil so the graphite powder coats the entire outside of the key, then try the lock again. The graphite coating will help reduce friction inside the lock, and it should work almost like new again.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION