Did you know that wall-to-wall carpeting can hold up to eight times its weight in trapped dirt, dust mites, chemicals and pesticides? While it may not be green to replace it with hardwood floors, you can be mindful what goes on in rooms with wall-to-wall carpet. First, make a habit to not wear shoes in carpeted rooms; chemicals and dirt from shoes can get trapped in the carpet. Second, if you get your home treated by an exterminator, ask them to not spray directly onto the carpet, or -- even better -- to avoid wall-to-wall carpet areas entirely. Insecticide chemicals can settle in carpets and remain there for many years, accumulating each time you have the home treated.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

After you've boiled a pot of pasta or potatoes, do you ever wonder what you can do with all that leftover starchy water? Instead of pouring it down the drain, let it cool down to room temperature and reuse it to water your houseplants and garden. The residual starch in the water actually spurs the nutrients in soil, which helps feed the plants and makes them stronger. In essence, they are carbo-loading for strength! Just remember this one tip: Don't add any salt to the water when cooking, since salt is harmful to all plant types.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

While we all know that an old door or ill-fitting window can create a draft and allow cold air to waft into your home, you may not realize there are other sources of heat loss. When it's cold outside, remember that a door mail slot or a doggy door can act like a small window left open to the outdoor elements. Take the time to make sure they are completely shut. Even using an old wool blanket to cover the slot or door is enough to make a significant insulating difference.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION