The start of the school year often brings donation drives to give kids the essentials they need to excel at school. But the winter months are a critical time to donate things like binders, pencils, pens, folders and notebooks, too. The need for the right supplies persists nearly year-round, not just at the start of the school season. Local charities also continue to need seasonal items after their big donation drives, especially in cold climates -- so keep donating your winter coats, hats, mittens, new warm socks, blankets and towels.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Microwaves are a convenient and energy-efficient way to cook and heat up leftovers instead of using the oven. But when using a microwave, opt for only microwave-safe glass or ceramic containers, even if a plastic container is marked "microwave-safe." That marking on plastics means they can withstand heat up to a certain temperature; if you're cooking something on high for an extended period of time, even microwave-safe plastic containers can lose their shape and could leach chemicals into your food.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

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