Do you have old dried-out spices that have lost their punch in the kitchen? Don’t toss them -- use them to freshen your carpets instead. Mix the spices with baking soda and sprinkle the blend over a rug or wall-to-wall carpeting. Spices like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, rosemary, thyme and mint work well; just avoid anything that might stain. Let sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum to reveal a naturally refreshed carpet.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Did you get a living pine tree for Christmas so you can plant it in your yard later? Follow a few simple steps to help it thrive once spring arrives. Keep the tree indoors for no more than a week; if it stays inside too long, it can lose its winter hardiness. You might also consider decorating and displaying it on your front porch or outdoors near your home instead. Remember, the larger the tree, the lower its chance of survival -- so opt for a smaller one. A compact, balled tree placed on a table can still give you the height and presence you want. Store the tree in the garage or another cool, protected area until planting time in spring.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you're lucky enough to fly somewhere and have the option of a meal on the plane as part of your travel, you can take steps to reduce food waste. If you get an upgrade to a premium class and you plan on sleeping during the flight, go to the airline's website to opt for "no food" so no meal will be prepared for you. This will help reduce food waste, since none of the prepared food can be reused after the flight lands. And remember to bring your reusable water bottle with you when you travel to avoid plastic cups and other single-use plastics when drinks are served in-flight.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION