Danny Seo

Do Just One Thing

If you enjoy the warmth and ambience of a backyard fire pit, a gas-powered version is the greener choice. Wood-burning pits release carbon into the atmosphere and can also pose safety risks from flying embers and sparks. Gas fire pits produce significantly fewer emissions, with virtually no smoke, particulates or greenhouse gases. If you do choose wood, opt for locally sourced firewood to reduce environmental impact.

n n n

A lot of people like to add white vinegar to the automatic dishwasher to help boost its cleaning power and leave dishes and cups sparkling clean. The only issue with using vinegar is this: It’s a strong acid that can degrade the rubber gaskets inside your dishwasher over time. Instead of adding vinegar to the dispenser, consider spraying white vinegar over your dishes, plates and flatware with a spray bottle. Let the mild acid do its trick for a few minutes before hitting the ON button. This will give you all the benefits without any of the acidic damage.

n n n

If you’re setting up backyard nets for soccer, volleyball, tennis, pickleball or any other casual game, make it a habit to take them down as soon as you’re finished playing. What seems like harmless fun equipment can quickly become a serious hazard for wildlife — birds, deer, foxes, snakes and other animals can easily become entangled. In their panic to escape, they often tighten the netting around themselves, leading to injury or even death. The simplest and most effective solution is prevention: Enjoy your games, but never leave nets standing unattended.

n n n

Have you ever moved into a home that still carries the odor of cigarette smoke? It can feel nearly impossible to erase, but nature offers a surprisingly effective fix. Houseplants act as gentle air purifiers, releasing water vapor that helps draw in and break down lingering pollutants — essentially turning stale, contaminated air into plant fuel. Varieties like English ivy and Gerbera daisies are especially helpful, known for absorbing benzene, a chemical commonly found in cigarette smoke. Another simple, chemical-free deodorizing trick: Place small bowls of baking soda or activated charcoal around the room. Both naturally absorb odors over time, helping to freshen the air while your plants do their work.

n n n

When it comes to getting whites bright on laundry day, there are plenty of good reasons to skip chlorine bleach. Research has shown that bleach releases harsh fumes — particularly chlorine gas and chlorinated byproducts — that can irritate the airways, trigger coughing and wheezing, and worsen conditions like asthma. Even low-level repeated exposure has been linked to increased respiratory inflammation, making it especially risky in poorly ventilated laundry rooms. A safer, effective alternative is hydrogen peroxide. It works by releasing oxygen molecules that naturally break down stains and brighten fabrics, and it decomposes into water and oxygen. Add 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide with your regular detergent for a gentler, nontoxic way to keep whites whiter.

n n n

Lightening your car by removing unnecessary items can noticeably improve fuel efficiency and handling. Focus on clearing out heavy trunk clutter like unused tools, sports gear, extra fluids and accumulated junk, along with interior extras such as spare floor mats, bulky seat covers and unused car seats. If possible, skip rooftop carriers, bike racks or roof racks when not in use, as they add both weight and aerodynamic drag. Even small changes add up; dropping about 100 pounds can boost fuel economy by roughly 1%.