ArcaMax

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 ...Read more

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...Read more

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 ...Read more

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...Read more

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 ...Read more

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 ...Read more

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 ...Read more

Drones look cool, but to animals, they can feel like predators or noisy intruders. Low, fast or unpredictable flights can cause birds to abandon nests, prompt mammals to stop feeding or hide (wasting energy), and even increase stress levels that harm reproduction and survival. If you are using a drone, keep your distance and stay high, avoid ...Read more

If your wedding gown is destined to stay in storage, why not let it do some good instead? Brides for a Cause accepts once-worn gowns and sells them to raise money for charity. With nearly 40,000 dresses sold and close to $3 million raised, more than 55 nonprofits have benefited from their efforts. They accept gowns up to five years old, in any ...Read more