To prevent clogs and deodorize sink drains, look no further than a box of regular salt. Pour 1/2 cup salt (coarse salt works best) down the drain and then pour a tea kettle of very hot water after it. The salt will act as a corrosive to scrub the drain walls, and the hot water will help flush clogs down the drain while dissolving the salt. This process also naturally deodorizes, so any foul odors will be neutralized, leaving your drain clean and smelling fresher.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Whether you choose organic or conventional, when you buy produce from the supermarket, you still need to use common sense. Look for produce that is not bruised, moldy, slimy or sick-looking. Smell it: If it smells bad, leave it behind. Produce that has been misted with water from automatic sprayer systems can also be full of bacteria, especially if your supermarket recycles water (many stores do). Wash and dry your produce before eating to remove any traces of germs, mold or bacteria. And most important: Pack your produce and meats in different bags to avoid cross-contamination.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

The next time there's a big gathering or you're invited to a potluck party (and maybe you're not the best cook), offer to bring reusable dishes, cups and utensils. Bring them in durable bins and let everyone go waste-free for the fete. When the party's over, load the dirty dishes and utensils into the bins and run them through the dishwasher once you get home. You'll be accomplishing two wonderful things: helping the environment by cutting back on waste, and not leaving the host with the burden of washing dishes or throwing away trash.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION