Read the instructions

Owner’s manuals and instructions are written to provide us information on the best way to use a product.  It is very easy, and human, to toss the instructions and manuals aside if we can intuitively understand what to do.  However, frequently, those instructions and manuals provide information to help us use the item more sustainably.  Take a few minutes to look at the instructions, even if you are sure you know how to operate or use the item.  Here are a few examples of information you can get from instructions:

• How to turn off the heated drying cycle on a dishwasher and let the dishes air dry; also, when to use various settings and how to maintain the dishwasher so it effectively cleans the dishes and lasts for many years
• How to turn on power saver options or sleep mode to reduce the energy used when the item is not in use
• How to discard, dispose of, or recycle unwanted items (prescription drugs, toxic chemicals, batteries, electronics, etc.) to minimize environmental impacts 
• How to maintain your possessions so they last longer and operate effectively.  Proper maintenance can significantly extend the life of an item.
• How to properly assemble and install items, for safety as well as effective operation of an item
• How to store items to minimize damage.  For example, remove alkaline batteries from items you won’t use for a while, so the batteries don’t corrode and ruin the item. 
• How much laundry soap to use so your clothes get clean but you don’t waste soap by using more than you need; how to properly launder an item of clothing to extend its life