ArcaMax

Many of us add liquid fabric softener to the washing machine to help make clothing not only feel soft, but smell good, too. But the nonprofit Healthy Child Healthy World says it’s best to skip fabric softener; in addition to the artificial fragrance used in most softeners, it also leaves a film behind on fabric fibers. All of this can cause ...Read more

Real leather bags, shoes and furniture can crack or deteriorate over time from weather and heat. Store-bought leather conditioners can work, but they can also be expensive. So make your own: Just combine 1 part beeswax, 1 part cocoa butter and 2 parts sweet almond oil in a saucepan over low heat. Let the mixture melt and pour it into a heatproof...Read more

When serving food, avoid plates, bowls and cups that have the look and feel of glass or ceramic but the durability of plastic. According to the Food and Drug Administration, these tabletop items are made with a resin that's a combination of melamine and formaldehyde. There are chemicals in the finished product that can leach onto food -- ...Read more

Many homeowners are told to keep chest freezers in the garage, assuming the unheated space will help them stay cold. In reality, garage temperatures fluctuate widely, especially in regions with hot summers and cold winters. These swings can force the freezer to work harder during heat waves, putting extra strain on the motor and shortening its ...Read more

Backyard bird and nectar feeders need to be properly filled to avoid getting birds sick. When it comes to birdseed, be sure to store it in a dry place inside an airtight container. If there's any moisture, mold and bacteria can grow. To make sure your birdseed is fresh, give it a good smell; if it smells off, bury it deep inside your compost ...Read more

During the winter months, a few simple steps can help keep your recycling efficient and effective. If you live in a snowy or icy climate, make sure recyclables are dry before placing them outside, to prevent ice buildup. Place heavier items, like glass bottles, on top of lighter materials, to keep them from blowing away on windy days. And never ...Read more

It’s a myth that closing vents in little-used rooms will save you money on heating during the cold winter months. In reality, your HVAC system is designed to heat your entire home efficiently, and shutting vents can actually make it work harder -- sometimes even increasing your energy bills. Instead, make sure vents aren’t blocked by ...Read more

Not only can a taxi ride to the airport be expensive, but it can be wasteful; the taxis at the terminals often arrive with just one passenger and their suitcase. To save money and cut down on carbon emissions, find someone else near you who is going to the airport and share a ride. TaxyMatch is an app for your iPhone or Android phone that can ...Read more

If you’re donating old clothing and household items, there are a few things you can do to help your local Goodwill or other donation site. Use rubber bands to help keep shoes together, and be sure to separate clothing from household items (using large trash bags is fine). Battery-operated items and those with electrical cords should be tested ...Read more