Bird feeders are a nice way to get close to birds and also help them find a source of food when survival is tough, during harsh winter months. According to the National Wildlife Federation, feeders should be placed at least 10 feet away from shrubs, brush piles and places where cats may lurk. The NWF also advises that the seed mixture should always stay dry. Wet seed can develop mold that sickens birds, so if yours gets wet, dump the old mixture into a compost pile, clean the feeder and start fresh with dry seeds.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Think twice about keeping decorative pillows on your bed. If you're in the habit of tossing them onto the bedroom floor each night before drifting off, you may actually be making your bed unhealthier and dirtier over time. Pillows that rest on the floor can collect dirt, bacteria, dust mites and other creepy crawlies. When you make the bed in the morning, you're bringing those unwanted microorganisms right onto it. Instead, just keep the pillows you actually sleep with on your bed, or place the decorative pillows on a chair or side table each night.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Did you know it's important to rinse rice before you cook it? Rinsing removes surface starch so the rice comes out fluffier, more consistent and tastier. But don't dump the cloudy water that's left over down the drain! It's loaded with vitamins, minerals and amino acids that can be used as a skin care treatment. The mixture has organic materials that help soothe and heal skin, so it can be used as a toner, cleanser and salve. Just allow the rice water to cool, then apply.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION