Do just one thing

BATS AT RISK

Bats are a critical part of keeping our ecosystems in check. According to a published study in the journal Science, bats eat so many insects that they save the U.S. agriculture industry more than $3 billion per year as natural pest control. Unfortunately, bats are at risk, but there are things you can do to help them survive. Start by eliminating pesticides from your yard, since a single bat can eat up to 3,000 insects per night. Turn off lights at night, because a dark environment is one in which they thrive. Finally, leave dead and dying trees in place; they create habitats for bats.

WATER AND RUBBING ALCOHOL

It’s important to keep the surfaces in your bathroom germ-free and as clean as possible, but there’s no need to get expensive or chemical-laden cleaning products to do the job when two simple ingredients will work just fine: water and rubbing alcohol. Mix two parts 70% isopropyl alcohol and one part water in a reusable spray bottle, then spray away. Since rubbing alcohol evaporates quickly, it can be used on nearly any surface, and it’s a great disinfectant, too. Wipe with a microfiber towel for extra cleanliness.

REUSABLE ITEMS FOR POTLUCK

The next time there’s a big gathering or you’re invited to a potluck party (and maybe you’re not the best cook), offer to bring reusable dishes, cups and utensils. Bring them in durable bins and let everyone go waste-free for the fete. When the party’s over, load the dirty dishes and utensils into the bins and run them through the dishwasher once you get home. You’ll be accomplishing two wonderful things: helping the environment by cutting back on waste, and not leaving the host with the burden of washing dishes or throwing away trash.

BUYING PRODUCE

Whether you choose organic or conventional, when you buy produce from the supermarket, you still need to use common sense. Look for produce that is not bruised, moldy, slimy or sick-looking. Smell it: If it smells bad, leave it behind. Produce that has been misted with water from automatic sprayer systems can also be full of bacteria, especially if your supermarket recycles water (many stores do). Wash and dry your produce before eating to remove any traces of germs, mold or bacteria. And most important: Pack your produce and meats in different bags to avoid cross-contamination.

SALT THAT DRAIN

To prevent clogs and deodorize sink drains, look no further than a box of regular salt. Pour 1/2 cup salt (coarse salt works best) down the drain and then pour a tea kettle of very hot water after it. The salt will act as a corrosive to scrub the drain walls, and the hot water will help flush clogs down the drain while dissolving the salt. This process also naturally deodorizes, so any foul odors will be neutralized, leaving your drain clean and smelling fresher.

MICROWAVE SAFE ITEMS

Microwaves are a convenient and energy-efficient way to cook and heat up leftovers instead of using the oven. But when using a microwave, opt for only microwave-safe glass or ceramic containers, even if a plastic container is marked “microwave-safe.” That marking on plastics means they can withstand heat up to a certain temperature; if you’re cooking something on high for an extended period of time, even microwave-safe plastic containers can lose their shape and could leach chemicals into your food.

WINTER SCHOOL DONATIONS

The start of the school year often brings donation drives to give kids the essentials they need to excel at school. But the winter months are a critical time to donate things like binders, pencils, pens, folders and notebooks, too. The need for the right supplies persists nearly year-round, not just at the start of the school season. Local charities also continue to need seasonal items after their big donation drives, especially in cold climates — so keep donating your winter coats, hats, mittens, new warm socks, blankets and towels.