Do you want your clothes to dry more quickly, and use less energy in the process? It might be time to shorten the dryer vent hose. That long, metal, accordionlike tube that connects from the wall to the dryer is often too long when its installed in your laundry room. Simply shortening the hose so it still reaches the dryer can significantly increase the efficiency of your dryer and decrease drying time by as much as 20%. A shorter distance for your dryer to have to pump out moisture-heavy air equals better efficiency.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

It may seem serene and peaceful, but burning incense inside your home can actually lead to poorer air quality -- even worse than cigarette smoke. When lit, incense sticks can release more than just fragrance into the air; they also release ultra-fine particles and smoke that can be damaging to your lungs. If you want to add fragrance to the air, consider using completely natural essential oils with misting machines that gently release small amounts of fragrance into the air with water particles.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Big-box office supply stores gladly take your empty ink and laser printer cartridges, often giving you a credit of a few dollars you can use toward a new purchase in return. But did you know you can make a lot more selling them directly to recyclers? US Recycling (usrecycleink.com) pays up to $23 for empty cartridges. Just fill out a short form on their website and take a picture of your empty cartridges. They'll make you an offer within an hour, and if you accept, they share how to ship to their recycling facilities. Either way, never toss your empty cartridges away; they can be recycled at stores or through recyclers like this.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION