SUMMER FUN - WHILE SAVING MONEY

Here are some simple, money-saving, tricks and sustainable hints to use this summer that will save money and protect the planet at the same time:

• Hang clothes—especially whites—outside in the sun to dry, at least in the summer. It will give your clothes a fresh natural scent. Saving energy one-third of the year is better than not at all and you’ll be letting the sunshine bleach your whites rather than harsh chemicals.
• Close your curtains and blinds during the day. It will keep the house cooler and help reduce your use or air conditioning in the summer.
• Wash clothing in vinegar and baking soda rather than harsh chemicals. Use ¼ cup white distilled vinegar and ¼ cup baking soda.
• Always use rechargeable batteries rather than the one-use variety.
• Take digital pictures rather than one-use cameras, even on vacations. They don’t take up that much space and it’s so easy to email photos to family and friends.
• Soak a washcloth in water, place it in a baggie and put it in the freezer, when you’re on a road trip, you’ll have a handy wipe that won’t leave any waste behind. Plus, if you’ve got a baby, it can double as a slightly frozen, crunchy, and soothing teething toy to munch on without any worries about worn-out teething rings.

TIPS AND HINTS

Turn off computers - especially the monitors - at night.

Taking the stairs saves energy and helps your cardio health.

Hang a sheet or blanket over your windows on the hottest days of the year - it will keep the heat outside and lower the temperature in your house from 5-10 degrees