Do Just One Thing

Danny Seo

The next time you change out the water in an aquarium, don’t toss the “dirty” water down the drain. That cloudy, murky water is full of nutrients that your plants will love, including good bacteria, nitrogen, minerals, phosphorous and potassium. It’s perfect for houseplants and ornamental plants, and a little goes a long way. Just dilute the dirty fish tank water with fresh water and you’ll be able to feed plenty of plants each time you change out the aquarium.

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Two good reasons to buy groceries from local merchants instead of big-box stores: You’re supporting your local economy, and you’ll likely cut back on single-use plastic. Large supermarket chains often wrap fresh produce in plastic to keep it looking pristine and to protect it from the hundreds of customers who handle it each day. Smaller neighborhood markets tend to use far less packaging, giving you the option to shop without the extra waste. As a bonus, local stores are also more likely to carry seasonal produce from nearby farms, which means fresher food and fewer transportation miles.

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It might be time to rethink the classic tennis ball for games of fetch. The familiar fuzzy coating is actually made from plastic fibers that shed as the ball wears down, creating microplastics that can end up in waterways — or even in your dog’s mouth. A better option: plastic-free tennis balls that deliver the same bounce, size and playability as the original, without the microplastic fallout.

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Don’t toss worn pillowcases — put them to work in your closet. They make great storage bags for sweaters, allowing the fabric to breathe while keeping dust and light off delicate knits. You can also turn one into a simple garment cover: Just cut a small hole in the center of the closed end and slip it over a hanger to shield jackets or shirts. Need more? Thrift stores are an easy place to pick up extra pillowcases for protecting an entire wardrobe.

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That can of diet soda could be dangerous — if not deadly — for your dog. Many zero-calorie drinks contain the artificial sweetener xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs and can lead to seizures, liver failure and other serious health problems. Even small amounts, along with traces of caffeine, can trigger issues like heart palpitations in pets. To be safe, always pour out any leftover soda and give the can a quick rinse before tossing it in the recycling.

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If you use a reusable water bottle at home, you might wonder how long the water inside is safe to drink. The answer: about 24 hours. According to Better Homes & Gardens, water that sits uncovered for eight hours or more can absorb carbon dioxide from the air, which lowers the pH and can affect the taste. The bigger concern, however, is the bottle itself — every sip introduces bacteria. If the bottle sits near a heat source, that can accelerate bacterial growth. Wash bottles daily, refill them often and pour leftover water into your houseplants so none goes to waste.

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Choosing the proper haircut for your dog’s breed is essential. While it might be tempting to trim your pup’s fur during hot summer days, cutting too much actually can backfire. Breeds with long, dense coats rely on their fur to shield their skin from the sun and help regulate temperature. In colder months, an overly long coat can still trap heat and cause overheating, even when it seems chilly outside.

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.