Living off the grid can mean you need to get creative when it comes to certain tasks - like cleaning and maintaining hygiene. But you don't need to sacrifice the showers, modern toilets, or helpful kitchen appliances that make cleanliness easier and more practical.

There are numerous varieties of lettuce with varying leaf shapes, colors, and tastes. But to make things simpler and help you decide which varieties might be best for your own garden, we can effectively break all lettuces into four groups with similar characteristics. Here is an overview of the different types of lettuce you can grow at home, followed by some general tips for raising a great crop.

The kitchen is the heart of many homes, so when it comes to living off-grid it shouldn't be any different. Whether you're searching for a solar powered oven, an off-grid refrigerator or pots and pans, outfitting your off-grid kitchen with good quality appliances may cost a little more to begin with, but will be worth it in the long run.

Check out this infographic full of great tips on the different types of building materials to use and which ones to avoid in the new construction of a modern, energy-efficient home. Information on the costs and insulation properties of various materials and treatments for walls, windows, doors, and roofs are covered - and more.

Having an alternative and electricity-free cooking method is the only way to truly be prepared for survival (plus it's an excellent way to conserve energy and save money). And it's easy - with a little practice, you can learn how to cook off-grid.

Check out NBC News' video piece and accompanying article on Real Goods' impact on the "back to the land" off-grid living movement that started in the 1960s and continues stronger than ever today!