Beauty products can still be useful in new and different ways well after they've been used up or expired. A clean mascara brush, for example, can be used to scrub between stones in jewelry or watch links to clear away dirt and debris. Unwanted nail polish (perhaps a color not to your liking) can be used to "paint" the stems of wine glasses to give them personality and color. And lipstick that broke can be melted in a microwave-safe dish for 20 seconds, then poured into a clean tin (think small mint tin) and applied to the lips with a brush or fingertips.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Even in an age of digital reading, printed books are still in demand and can be donated if you're ready to make room on your bookshelf at home. The rule of thumb for donating books is this: If the book was published three years ago or less, donate it to your local library, which will resell the book at a fundraiser to raise money for its valuable work. If the book is older, donate it to a Salvation Army or Goodwill store, which will resell the book in-store. Either way you donate your books, be sure to get a receipt for tax-deduction purposes.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

What could be the harm in picking up a shell or rock when you're snorkeling in the ocean? A lot, actually. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, "picking up a rock or shell could expose the organisms or fish eggs beneath it to predators." And with coral reefs being home to 25% of the world's fish, small shifts like this can have a seismic effect if everyone does it. Leave snorkeling near coral to expert swimmers, and stay far away if you're a novice. Don't forget to opt for "reef-safe" sunscreen when swimming in the ocean, too.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION