Ideal Bite

Does your oven look worse for the wear? Clean up its act, since ovens caked with last month's casserole drippings cook less efficiently. Just opt for a cleaner that works without caustic ingredients and without you having to fire up the self-cleaning option, which uses a ton of energy. Sizzlin'.

Little too early for boughs of holly? Of course. But students can still deck out their rooms with stuff that saves energy, is made from earth-friendlier materials, and looks hotter than a blazing Yule.

Does replacing your pillows knock out your bank reserves? Soften the blow: Make 'em last longer by cleaning them - which clobbers both cash waste and the unnecessary production of new pillows.

Should you put toxic leather cleaners out to pasture? Boy howdy. Switch 'em out for versions that'll get 'em just as clean (minus the gnarly chems) and save you some moo-la.

Voting for change when it comes to nongreen lip gloss or window cleaner? Start your new beginning without dumping what's left over.

Hotel bills ruining your vacation pleasure? Hook yourself up with a house instead - you'll get better amenities, eco-savings, and local living at your destination of choice.

Are stealthy chems robbing your health? Never fear - just hold up on using products with perfluorocarbons (PFCs), commonly found in stain guards, beauty products, and nonstick pans - there are plenty of alternatives. Neighborhood, watch:

Want cleaner power in your love nest? You and solar power were made for each other, what with all the leasing plans available. It's fate.