It's time to ditch plastic bowls and plates -- no matter how durable they seem -- in favor of glass or ceramic. Over time, plastic dinnerware can release millions of microplastics into your food. This can happen when you microwave meals, wash items in the dishwasher or use plastic plates for highly acidic foods. In fact, just three minutes of microwaving has been shown to release more than 4 million microplastics at a time. If you must use plastic tableware, stick to cold foods -- never microwave it -- and always wash by hand.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Does your kitchen or bathroom drain have an unpleasant odor? Instead of dumping chlorine bleach down the drain to neutralize the odor, try this nontoxic solution: regular salt. Sometimes decomposing organic matter like food scraps can get stuck on the sides of pipes. The salt helps dislodge the stuck-on waste and acts like a mini scrubber for your pipes. It's an easy, inexpensive option that's safer for your plumbing and the environment. Simply pour about 1/2 to 1 cup of salt down the drain and turn on the tap to try this tip.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you've purchased a new washing machine, listen up: Don't use DIY laundry detergent for your machine. While handmade detergents are a good all-natural alternative, they have a tendency to clog modern washing machines. With household appliances becoming more high-tech, untested detergents can cause internal havoc. Using a DIY detergent can also void the warranty of your washing machine. Instead, look for commercial brands that are highly concentrated and made with plant-based ingredients, and use your DIY detergents for hand-washing purposes only.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION