Andrea Ridout

Senior Lifestyles Reporter

After three decades in the hardware industry and radio/TV, Andrea Ridout of Garland has become a nationally-known expert on products and processes for green home improvement. She has owned and sold three award-winning companies and has a wide breadth of knowledge from decorative hardware to gardening, eco-friendly topics to animal husbandry.

She is currently working on a new book about backyard chickens for Texas A&M Press. You can reach her at Andrea@AskAndrea.com.

By Andrea Ridout

Aug 14 2019, ANDREA RIDOUT

Water Filters 101: Tips for wading through the options

In north Texas, tap water can taste unpleasant despite being generally clean. To improve water quality, consider filters, which vary from carbon, ion exchange, and reverse osmosis to multi-stage systems. Tested brands like Brita, Zero Water, Life Straw, Aquasana, and others offer varying benefits, while eco-friendly options are emerging to reduce waste.

Jun 12 2019, ANDREA RIDOUT

Dads will love these green gifts

Consider eco-friendly Father's Day gifts: Bishop Cider offers gluten-free, vegan ciders; enjoy meals at sustainable local eateries; shop Texas Olive Ranch olive oils; get a durable Leatherman tool; try Maximus LED Camera Floodlight for security; receive discounts at Natural Grocers; choose Brazos Walking Sticks; or gift an iFixit toolkit.

May 08 2019, ANDREA RIDOUT

Give Mom a unique green gift

Celebrate Mother's Day with eco-friendly gifts: Yims Foods offers award-winning pickled treats, Thrive Apothecary sells CBD products for well-being, and 5 Mile Chocolate provides sustainable two-ingredient bars. Other options include rustic jewelry by Ruth Semmi, Tula Hats, One Tiny Acre's soaps, recycled art cards from Beverly Ann Moore, and a bee-friendly garden kit from Pretty Things and Cool Stuff.

Mar 05 2019, ANDREA RIDOUT

Plant-based take-out venue opens third location in DFW

Two Dallas sisters, Marianne Lacko and Annette Baker, have expanded their all-vegan takeaway venture, Nature's Plate, by opening a third location in DFW. They offer delicious, healthy, prepped meals with eco-friendly packaging, along with classes and meal plans focused on unprocessed, plant-based foods.

Feb 28 2019, ANDREA RIDOUT

Tiny house village breaks ground in Lake Dallas

A new tiny house village in Lake Dallas, breaking national news, is the first of its kind within a city. Developed by Terry Lantrip and tiny house advocate B.A. Norrgard, the community features 13 homes and shared amenities. Residents prioritize minimalist living, and the project aims to blend sustainability with local engagement.

Feb 06 2019, ANDREA RIDOUT

20 eco-friendly treats for Valentine's Day

This eco-friendly Valentine’s Day guide suggests ethical gifts and experiences, such as dining at Café Modern, exploring local gardens, enjoying vegan desserts, and purchasing fair-trade items. Options include sustainable dining experiences, vegan sweets, locally crafted goods, and eco-conscious gifts at various Texas locations and online.

Feb 01 2019, ANDREA RIDOUT

AgriLife specialist schooled North Texans on sustainability

Dotty Woodson, a horticulturist dedicated to spreading enthusiasm for water conservation and gardening, retired after 30 years, including 24 with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. Honored by public figures, she's known for her engaging talks, TV appearances, and plans to focus on orchids post-retirement.

Dec 18 2018, ANDREA RIDOUT

Green Gift Guide: Pets will go wild for these eco-gifts

Surprise your pet with eco-friendly, durable, and chemical-free gifts from local and national merchants. Options include indestructible dog toys, ceramic cat canisters, vegan dog chews, bird seed treats, and chicken coops. Online finds offer recycled toys, hemp collars, feeder cams, and organic cat grass. Prices may vary by merchant.

Dec 12 2018, ANDREA RIDOUT

Eco-chic fashion 'pops' up at Northpark in Dallas

Bottletop's eco-chic fashion pop-up at Northpark Center, Dallas, offers luxurious accessories made from upcycled materials like pop can tabs. The boutique, open until Dec. 31, showcases ethical fashion with products handcrafted in Brazil, supports sustainability, and donates profits to education-focused efforts globally.

Dec 10 2018, ANDREA RIDOUT

Green Gift Guide: Fun eco-friendly gifts for kids

The Green Gift Guide suggests eco-friendly gifts for kids, including science kits, knitted finger puppets, solar lanterns, recycled art kits, bamboo dining sets, and museum experiences. These gifts, available locally and online, promote environmental awareness and creativity through sustainable materials and engaging learning activities.

Dec 04 2018, ANDREA RIDOUT

Green Gift Guide: Earth-friendly gifts for women

The Green Gift Guide recommends eco-friendly gifts for women, including bamboo cutting boards, handmade tea towels, recycled metal jewelry, and compostable coffee pods. Local and online options feature sustainable products made from renewable and recycled materials, supporting eco-conscious living while delighting the recipient.

Nov 30 2018, ANDREA RIDOUT

Green Gift Guide: Eco-friendly gifts for men

Show your love for the Earth by choosing sustainable options when you spend money this holiday season. Stores all across the Metroplex take note when you vote for the planet with your dollars.