Beauty products can be of service in new and different ways well after they've been used up or expired. A clean mascara brush, for example, can be used to scrub away dirt and debris between stones in jewelry or watch links. Unwanted nail polish (a color not to your liking, say) can be used to "paint" the stems of wineglasses to give them personality and color. And lipstick that broke can be melted in a microwave-safe dish for 20 seconds then poured into a clean tin (like a small mint tin) and applied to the lips with a brush or fingertips.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Did you know that metal bottle caps are recyclable, but they are often tossed into the trash at recycling facilities? It's because they are too small and often end up as waste as the larger recyclables get sorted. So, what to do? Open and save a steel can (like a soup can) and an aluminum can (from a soda). Fill each with bottle caps made from their respective metals. Not sure how to tell the difference? If a cap sticks to a magnet, it's steel; if not, it's aluminum. When the cans are full, crimp them closed so nothing falls out and recycle in your curbside recycling bin.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

When it comes to choosing packing peanuts for shipping something fragile, the most environmentally friendly choice is biodegradable. But while these eco-friendly mini cushions are easy to find and are made from starch, which instantly degrades in water, they can also be more expensive. If you're on a budget, your next "lighter green" option is to look for polystyrene packing peanuts that are green in color. These reusable peanuts are less expensive and are made with 70% recycled materials.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION