Although we wish everything were recyclable, some things just have to be thrown out. So, after you're done with that dirty napkin or used cup, make it as small as you can before tossing it in the trash can. By compacting these disposable items, you'll save space in landfills. This is also a good thing to do with your cardboard boxes and aluminum cans as you recycle them – more can be toted to the recycling plant for processing. Try to throw away the bare minimum, and when you do, compact it to save valuable room in your garbage bags.