Household plants can be a natural and efficient way to purify the air inside your home. But if your plants get sick -- developing white or black mold spores on the outside of the leaves, for instance -- they can actually contribute to an unhealthy air environment. For sturdy plants, wipe down the leaves with a damp microfiber towel to pick up the mold spores; wash the microfiber cloth in hot water to sanitize the towel. Rinse your more delicate plants clean with cool water in a deep sink or bathtub. Let them drain and air dry, then return them to their sunny spot in the home.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

One of the easiest ways to help combat climate change is to plant a tree. But did you know that some trees are better at absorbing and storing carbon dioxide emissions than others? The U.S. Forest Service did a study in 2002 that researched which trees in an urban environment were the best at absorbing CO2. Trees like black walnut, ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, red oak, bald cypress, and red and white pines topped the list. These trees are also easy to maintain; trees that demand the use of gas-guzzling equipment like trucks and chainsaws for maintenance can only erase any eco gains.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Do you take vitamins and supplements? One tip that’s often shared is to store these health products somewhere cool, like a refrigerator, to maintain their freshness. But while cool and dark are ideal conditions, a refrigerator has too much moisture and can quickly deteriorate these items, which need to be protected from excess moisture, heat and light. Rather than kitchens and bathrooms, spaces like bedrooms and inside pantry closets are ideal locations for storing vitamins and supplements.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION