If you're in the market for a leaf blower to do some cleanup around the yard, consider battery-powered instead of a gas-guzzling blower. New long-lasting lithium ion battery-powered lawn and garden products are readily available at any home improvement store. These rechargeable batteries hold a longer charge (plus, the batteries are recyclable when you need to replace them down the road). So instead of emitting smelly fumes from gas-powered blowers, you can now clean and be green when doing yardwork.

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If you're doing some cleaning and organizing around your house, it may be tempting to purge boxes of old holiday decorations like Christmas ornaments, artificial trees, wreaths and garland. But while the weather outside may be saying anything but "White Christmas," consider holding onto your unwanted decor until the fall months. Starting in early November, charity shops like Goodwill and the Salvation Army will be in need of used holiday decor, which they stock up on and sell to raise money. Like any other business, charity shops are able to sell holiday items and decor best during the holiday months, and they often will not accept these items for donation during the offseason.

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When it's time to replace your mattress, you might wonder what you should do with your old one. If it's in decent shape, you should try to find a friend or family member who needs or would be willing to take it, since most nonprofits do not accept used mattresses. But if it's in bad shape and ready to be disposed of, the good news is that it is recyclable. Approximately 90% of the materials used to make a conventional mattress can be recycled. To find a recycler near you, just visit the website byebyemattress.com and enter your zip code to find local drop-off facilities near you.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION