Do you want to extend the non-stick surfaces of your hard anodized and cast-iron pans for as long as possible? First, never put them in the dishwasher; the hot water can destroy the top protective layers, making the pans less reliable to cook with. And even washing with soapy water by hand can make them less naturally non-stick. The solution? Use salt. Scrub with coarse salt to help lift grime and disinfect the surface. And for truly stubborn messes, fill the pan with water, add salt and boil away on the cook top until all the baked-on mess has lifted up, leaving the pan truly clean.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you find a great deal on a huge quantity of dishwashing tablets, you might want to pass on stocking up. The reason is that modern dishwashing detergent tablets are effective because of grease- and grime-fighting enzymes. But as an active ingredient, the enzymes' effectiveness deteriorates over time, making the tablets less effective. This is why it's imperative to buy the tablets in smaller quantities and to make sure they are always sealed up in their original container when you store them at home.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you're installing new environmentally friendly solid-surface countertops in your home, you might wonder: What can I do with the remnant pieces? Remnants are leftover material from trimming a slab down to size to fit your kitchen or from a cutout to accommodate something like a sink. They don't need to go to the landfill. Your fabricator can take the remnants and do simple finishes on the edges to make things like small tabletops, cheese boards, trivets and windowsill ledges to give your windows a luxurious upgrade.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION