The third week of May is Mailbox Improvement Week, and theUnited States Postal Serviceis encouraging customers to give their mailbox some TLC. The USPSreminded customersthat mailboxes should be fully operational, able to protect mail from the weather, safe to use, conveniently located and neat in appearance while being large enough to handle anticipated mail volume. "Neat, attractive mailboxes make a significant contribution to the appearance of the countryside and streets in suburban areas," the USPS said in theMay 15 edition of the Postal Bulletin. The USPS also pointed to the environmental benefits of keeping a well maintained mailbox. "When mailboxes are appropriately constructed, installed, and in good physical condition, the Postal Service delivers the mail safely and efficiently," the Postal Service wrote. "Customers avoid a trip to the Post Office, which saves fuel and reduces carbon emissions." The USPS did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The USPS suggests on its website that common mailbox maintenance includes: Tightening loose hinges on the door Taking care of rusty or loose parts Replacing missing or faded house numbers Keeping the path to the mailbox clear Should a mailbox need to be replaced, the USPS recommends that customers consider: A mailbox that can hold small packages, protect them from bad weather and offer safety for packages that a carrier might otherwise leave on the doorstep A mailbox that can hold larger package that can be picked up through the USPS'sCarrier Pickup programfor free Specifics for USPS approved mailboxes are included in the May 15 Postal Bulletin. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:It's Mailbox Improvement Week. How to keep yours in top shape
