Who knew that one of the best ways to refresh the air isn't with chemical-loaded spray air fresheners, but with a plant? The sansevieria plant -- also known as the snake plant -- is a succulent that NASA discovered could absorb more than 107 air pollutants, carbon monoxide and nitrogen monoxide. It's also incredibly easy to grow, needing little water and light. And unlike most plants, it continues to produce oxygen at night, too. It's a real winner to keep in your home!

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Researchers at the University of Quebec at Chicoutimi recently conducted a study to figure out the absolute greenest way to produce a cup of coffee at home. They found that brewing coffee through a traditional coffee maker with a disposable paper filter has the highest carbon footprint, due to the waste of the filter, the energy to heat up the water and the likelihood that not all of the coffee will actually be consumed. To green your routine, invest in a reusable metal filter, and brew smaller amounts. And instant coffee (there are some good ones out there) was the clear winner for producing the least waste.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

With spring around the corner and the harsh winter months behind us, many of us have bags of unused de-icing salt sitting in the garage. Left unattended through the spring, summer and fall months, the salt can clump and become useless by the time winter rolls around again. The simple solution? Toss charcoal briquettes into the bag and tightly seal it. The briquettes will absorb excess moisture and help keep the salt loose and crumbly to use next winter.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION