Five recycling mysteries solved!

Wondering what to do with your stash of old batteries or the cans of unneeded paint taking up space in your garage? You know you shouldn't throw them out, but it really is time to get rid of them.

Resist the temptation to toss them in the trash anyway. The reason: They (and everything on the list below) contain toxic chemicals capable of contaminating the environment if not disposed of properly.

Unlike items that are picked up at the curb, you'll have to make a special effort to unload these ones responsibly. But, with a little advance planning and some good info, you'll see that it's really quite simple to dispose of these seemingly mysterious items. Here's how:

* Batteries. Recycling rechargeable batteries is fairly easy. Home Depot, Staples, Radio Shack, Best Buy, and other retailers take them back free of charge. There are fewer options for single-use batteries, but look for bins at your local Whole Foods Market, Ikea, or library. Otherwise, your best bet is the local household hazardous waste drop-off site. Where is it and what are your closest drop-off options? Search here for answers.

* CFLs. These energy-efficient bulbs are becoming easier to get rid of. Just drop old bulbs off at any Home Depot or Ikea for free recycling. Or ask about CFL recycling at your local Ace Hardware or home improvement store. You can search for other nearby solutions.

* Electronics. Every retailer that takes back rechargeable batteries also accepts mobile phones, as do most wireless providers. For computers, cameras, televisions, and others it's worthwhile do a little homework because some stores charge fees depending on item and brand. Check out Best Buy, Staples, and Office Depot to see what's the best fit. Some places, like Radio Shack, have trade-in programs where you can receive store credit for your old gadgets.

* Motor Oil. In case you need some motivation, consider this factoid from Earth911: Every gallon of used motor oil that's improperly disposed of can contaminate one million gallons of drinking water. Bring it to Wal-Mart, Autozone, Jiffy Lube, or search online for more convenient choices.

* Paint. It's among the harder items in this group to dispose of, but it's worth it and totally doable. If the paint is still in good shape, consider donating it. As of now, there aren't any retailers that accept used paint so you'll need to make a special trip. Search Earth911 for a comprehensive list of options.

recycling old books....

if you are a crafty person like me, or want to be here's a few great ideas to recycle books( and if you know of more please let me know)

use the pages as wallpaper. I knew of someone who did that and it actually turned out pretty good.

make hard covers into purse....

Materials:

old hardcover book
old button to match
craft knife
glue fabric
metal handle frames
beads
grosgrain ribbon
braided ribbon trim
cardboard
sewing machine
pins
scissors
paper

Steps:

1. Cut the pages out of book with knife.

2. Select fabric to match book and iron it.

3. Measure book's height and width, add 1 inch to each, and use those measurements to make a triangular pattern for the side pieces.

4. Cut main lining piece, four side pieces (half and half), one pocket piece, and a bottom piece out of fabric.

5. Pin side-pieces together, right sides in.

6. Select beads for the handle, and string them on frame. Fold four 2-inch pieces of grosgrain ribbon over handle frame feet and pin in place.

7. Find old button to match book. Thread through a piece of ribbon and make a loop closure to fit it.

8. Sew two pinned triangular side pieces.

9. Sew ribbons on handles and button closure. Glue handles and button closures into book cover; allow to dry.

10. Glue ribbon trim to outside of book.

11. Iron side pieces right side out, with 1/2 inch on all sides ironed in, and pin to hold the fold.

12. Glue bottom of triangular side-pieces onto book spine. Cut cardboard to the size of the spine. Glue into place.

13. Glue side pieces onto book cover, one side at a time.

14. Iron main lining with 1/2-inch seam around each edge.

15. Glue main lining into book.

16. Cut another piece of cardboard the same size of spine, cover with fabric, and glue into bottom.