Many kitchen sinks have a garbage disposal, and it's a convenient way to quickly and efficiently dispose of food waste when composting isn't an option. But there are a few organic waste items you should avoid putting down the disposal. Pasta and rice are starchy foods that can expand in your pipes and create clogs. Stringy vegetables like asparagus, corn husks and celery can wrap around the disposal's blades. And keep grease out of your disposal; cooled oil can harden and create serious problems in your pipes and septic system.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Did you know after 400 charges, the battery life of your smartphone begins to degrade by about 20%? That doesn't mean your battery won't charge; it just won't hold onto a charge as long as the first time you used your phone. One way to extend and protect the life of your battery is to avoid chargers that do "fast charging." These devices charge phones quickly, but they also stress the battery. If you can, do a slow charge, like using a USB cord to charge your phone from your computer. The slower charge rate can extend the life of your battery.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Reed diffusers are an easy way to add natural scent to a room without burning candles or spraying artificial fragrances. But buying new diffusers -- the vial of oil, the container and reeds, in addition to all the packaging -- can be wasteful and expensive. Use this hack instead: Purchase a bottle of refill oil and use an old glass jar or small vase as the container. Then raid your junk drawer for Chinese food takeout chopsticks. They are made from bamboo and are porous enough to soak up the oil and gently dissipate the fragrance into the air.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION