DEAR HELOISE: How much longer do we have to put up with tubes of toothpaste that we can’t empty like we used to by rolling up the tube? I have to cut open the tube, where almost one-third of the toothpaste is still there. Then I have to scrape it out little by little with my toothbrush, which actually isn’t sanitary if more than one person uses the tube.

It’s no wonder that the manufacturers like it this way as a lot of people throw the tube out without cutting it open and have to buy a new one. On top of this, they keep telling us to save on plastic. What can be done?

— Nete S., via email

Nete, we have toothpaste that can now be stored in a tube with a wider cap so that most of the toothpaste slips downward, which eliminates the need to roll up the bottom of the tube. I think most manufacturers of toothpaste will probably stick to plastic tubes, though, at least for now.

— Heloise

DEAR HELOISE: I loved the letter about using the inside parts of toilet paper rolls and using dryer lint to start fires! For gardeners, if you maintain a compost pile, these cardboard tubes can go right into the compost pile after shredding them.

I don’t recommend putting dryer lint in a compost pile, but other items that can be put into compost include: white grease-free paper towels; unflavored tortilla chips, moldy bread; crushed eggshells; all vegetable and fruit peelings; newspapers; leaves; garden clippings; any non-slick paper; cereal boxes; all natural fibers such as cotton, wool and linen; and grass clippings.

Don’t put these items into compost: grease, any kind of meat, onions, citrus peels, plastic, polyester fabrics, or diseased plant material.

Compost is a great fertilizer and soil conditioner. You don’t even need a bin to start it. Make a 3-by-3-foot pile, alternating between green items (plant matter, grass, etc.) and brown items (shredded branches, cardboard, leaves, etc.). Keep it moist and cover with a tarp if necessary. The compost is ready when it’s dark brown in color and has a sweet, earthy odor.

It’s OK for small chunks to remain in it. Mix with your garden soil and enjoy the fruits of your labors!

— Lynda H., via email

Lynda, another compost no-no is animal poo. Animal waste can easily contain parasites.

— Heloise