I get exceptionally helpful email from a remarkable site, One Good Thing by Jillee (www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com). Just this morning she sent out ideas on how to use those plastic grocery bags that tend to accumulate beyond reason.

I know there are some states (California, for instance), that have actually banned these (and bravo!), but for those of us still living in a plastic-bag-oriented world, here are Jillee’s suggestions. See if there are any here that you aren’t already doing.

First, though, I would also suggest you keep a conscious watch over their accumulation. Set a number as to the amount you’re willing to give space to, just as a protection from being overrun by them.

Jillee begins by advising you take the time to wash them, just to be sure you’re not handling unwanted bacteria, etc. Submerge them in a sink full of hot, soapy water, then swish them around with your hands and allow them to soak there for a few minutes. When you’re ready to rinse, drain the sink and then rinse each bag with clean water. Hang the bags upside down and allow them to air dry completely before using.

KEEP HANDS CLEAN. Create a pair of makeshift gloves (by pulling a plastic bag over each hand) as a great way to keep hands clean when handling messy foods, or when cleaning up vomit, sticky crafts, etc.

CLEAN SHOWER HEADS. Fill the bag with vinegar, use a rubber band to secure it around the shower head, and let it soak for an hour or so. The vinegar will dissolve mineral deposits and cut through soap scum.

COVER THE PLUNGER. If you don’t have a stand or cover for your toilet plunger, a plastic bag over the rubber will contain germs and grime.

PRESERVE SHOE, BOOT, AND PURSE SHAPE. Before placing shoes and boots or handbags into storage, stuff a few plastic bags inside them. This will help them retain that fresh, from-the-store shape; no more disappointing lumpiness or tired floppiness when you bring them out of storage.

KEEP MIRRORS AND WIPERS ICE-FREE. Isn’t it a pain in the neck to wake up to frozen side mirrors and windshield wipers during the winter? So when the forecast calls for overnight snow, Jillee advises we cover our wipers and side mirrors with plastic bags. The bags will keep them free of ice and snow and make it quicker and easier to drive away the next morning. (If you’re lucky enough to be able to park your car inside a garage, then please pass this tip on to those who aren’t. They’ll love ya for it.)

Still car-related: COVER MUDDY SHOES. Keep a stash of plastic bags in your car to avoid tracking mud or slush onto your floormats when the weather’s bad. Just slip one bag over each shoe before stepping into the car. Brilliant, right?

Finally, KEEP PAINT TOOLS FROM DRYING. Instead of taking the time to clean a paint brush or roller when you must quit for the day, simply wrap a plastic bag tightly around them secure with a rubber band. The paint will stay wet for as long as 24 hours so you can pick up right where you left off the next day.

I can’t thank Jillee enough for sharing her cleverness with us. Now, how about you? What are some things you use these bags for?