Sustainability made simple

Ellen Pokorny

Ellen Pokorny writes freelance articles on Utopia.org.


what not to put in garbage disposal

10 Things You Can’t Put Down Your Garbage Disposal

Having a garbage disposal right beneath your sink can be an effective way to dispose of food scraps, but certain things don't belong. We'll show you what not to put in your garbage disposal. Read more


how to get rid of poison ivy plants

How to Get Rid of Poison Ivy Plants: 4 Natural Ways

Poison ivy can be a tough plant to remove and identify. Keep reading to find out how to get rid of poison ivy plants, how to identify them, and how to keep them out of your garden. Read more


dryer sheet alternative

6 Eco-Friendly Dryer Sheet Alternatives

Dryer sheets can add a refreshing smell and softer feel to your clothes, but they can also harm your dryer, your clothes, and the environment. Let's take a look at some eco-friendly dryer sheet alternatives. Read more


how to keep grapes fresh

How to Keep Grapes Fresh: 4 Easy Storage Tips

Grapes are a satisfying snack, but it's hard to know how long they will last. Read on to learn how long they can last in the fridge, how to keep grapes fresh, and what to do to keep them longer. Read more


How to remove sharpie

How to Remove Sharpie From Clothing, Walls and More

Wondering how to remove sharpie from objects in your home? Permanent markers are great tools, but they can also create tough stains. Read on to learn natural methods for getting rid of sharpie marks. Read more


As leaves decompose they add nutrients to your compost pile.

How to Compost Leaves: 3 Ways

Learning how to compost leaves is a great way to give your garden an extra boost. Read on for 3 different ways to compost leaves. Read more


composting grass clippings

Composting Grass Clippings: Put Garden Waste to Use

Composting your grass clippings is a simple way to eliminate waste, add nutrients to your soil, and properly balance your compost pile for a healthier garden overall. Read on to learn how. Read more


how to clean coffee maker without vinegar

How to Clean Your Coffee Maker Without Vinegar: Step-by-Step

Cleaning your coffee maker regularly is essential in maintaining flavor and for the health of your machine. Most people use vinegar to clean their coffee makers – but it also works without vinegar. We'll show you how. Read more