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Among the most annoying things when painting a room are all of the drips along the edges of the can.
It can become extremely messy and make it difficult to reseal the can when you're finished. To prevent drips, do this: Stretch a rubber band over the paint and across the center of the opening.
Each time you dip the brush, run it across the rubber band so excess paint drips back into the can and not over the sides. How easy is that?
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When storing your recyclables outdoors, be sure to keep them in a shaded area and not in direct sunlight.
In the warmer months (and in climates that are drier than others), keeping metal cans and glass bottles outside with bright, shining light on them can create a fire hazard.
Keeping them in shaded areas ensures the recyclables won't get scorching hot, protecting you and your neighbors.
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Though it's more energy-efficient to dry your clothes on a clothesline, there are times when you need to use a dryer.
To make it as efficient as possible, place your dryer in a warm spot in the home (a cold garage or basement may not be the best place), since this will reduce the time the machine needs to warm up.
Use the delay function to make the dryer run during nonpeak hours like the middle of the night. And dry loads of clothes one right after another; the residual heat from the first load will speed up the drying time of the second.
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Do you use protective gloves when you're cleaning around the house or washing dishes?
Almost all gloves are made from nonbiodegradable synthetic materials like polyvinyl chloride.
If you want to protect your hands, look for gloves that are made with natural materials like rubber or latex. Just be sure they're 100% plant-based rubber or latex and not a synthetic.
They'll perform as well as waterproof gloves and will biodegrade when it's time to replace them. Many can be found in natural grocery stores and online.
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Mouthwash works because it has antiseptic and antibacterial properties to help keep your mouth fresh and clean. But did you know you can use it to help fix other problems?
Smelly gym clothes build up odor-causing bacteria in the synthetic fibers over time that normal laundry routines won't kill.
Adding a cup of mouthwash to the laundry when washing these types of clothes eradicates those odor-causing germs. And spitting mouthwash into the toilet after rinsing instead of spitting it into the sink can help disinfect the bowl until the next time you flush.
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It's well known that cutting produce, meat and other foods on plastic cutting boards can lead to microplastics ending up in your meals.
Some companies now market "recycled" plastic boards to give them an eco-friendly spin, but while the intention is good, the result is not.
Whether virgin or recycled, plastic still sheds microplastics. Opt for wood, bamboo or glass cutting boards instead.
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Food insecurity is a growing issue in communities across the country. While donating canned goods is always appreciated, there are other items that can make an even bigger difference.
Coffee and tea are often considered luxuries for those in need, so if you spot a sale, stock up and donate.
Condiments like ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce and hot sauce are also in demand.
And don't forget essentials such as toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo and baby products -- they're always at the top of the list.
Through his best-selling books, television programs, products and syndicated column, environmental lifestyle expert Danny Seo shares the creative ideas that have made him America's leading authority on modern, eco-friendly living.