I recently wrote an article on bulk purchasing that focused on buying things in larger quantities. Two of the comments pointed out the environmental and local economic benefits of buying dry goods in bulk, however, I had never done this! Somehow I had decided that that food in bins couldn’t be as clean, or as fresh […]
Keep Out The Drafts Quickly and Cheaply
Posted on January 19, 2010 Written by 1 Comment
Last night the wind was blowing here in Massachusetts, and it was blowing hard. I’m working on a post about windows, and whether you should replace them, but right now, in January, I think most people want to know what they can do today to keep out the drafts. My favorite quick solution is plastic […]
Just One Thing: Programmable Thermostats
Posted on November 30, 2009 Written by 3 Comments
Several of my busy friends have asked me if there is just one thing they should definitely do, what is it? To save money and use less fuel, get an Energy Star programmable thermostat and program it. The energy auditors I work with tell me that reducing your house temperature by 1 degree […]
Reuse "Disposable" Restaurant Cups
Posted on November 21, 2009 Written by 1 Comment
It took me several years to realize that the plastic cups with lids and straws that are used for children at restaurants are considered “disposable” by restaurants. In other words, if you don’t take them with you, they will throw them out. These cups are very, very reusable, and can save you a ton of […]
Plastic Silverware Is Not a One Time Use Item
Posted on November 20, 2009 Written by 2 Comments
Do you throw away your plastic silverware every time you use it? I challenge you to start saving it, running it through your dishwasher and reusing it. Most plastic ware can be reused this way for years. When I’m in a situation where I’m using plastic ware, like a fast food restaurant or cafeteria, or […]
Eat Your Presents
Posted on November 7, 2009 Written by 3 Comments
Consider classy consumables for presents. It really makes people feel good to give gifts to people they love, even if they don’t need anything, and as much as some people protest, it’s hard to find anyone who doesn’t love receiving a thoughtful gift. I’ve been telling Jon for years that I really don’t need […]
Tip: Save Water, Time and Money: Train Your Hair To Need Less Washing
Posted on November 6, 2009 Written by 6 Comments
About ten years ago I decided that I wanted to grow my hair very long. I searched the web for resources and learned that the best way to have healthy hair is to not wash it every day. There were tips for training your hair to not need washing every day. I followed these […]
Installing a Low Flow Showerhead can save thousands of gallons of water per year
Posted on October 22, 2009 Written by 2 Comments
With a few dollars, a few minutes and pair of pliers you can save thousands of gallons of water and the energy and money to heat it by installing a low flow shower head. Here’s how Time: 5-10 minutes Parts: Low Flow Shower Head Recommended: Niagra Chrome Earth Showerhead 1.5gpm from EFI – $11 Tools […]
