Your washing machine can develop a serious case of mildew. And according to Better Homes and Gardens, the simplest way to prevent mildew buildup -- which can make your newly washed clothes smell musty -- is to do one thing: Leave the door open. Whether it's front-loading or a top-loader, leaving the door or lid open after use lets the machine dry out. And since most of us are using cold water to wash our clothes, it's even more important to do this, since only hot water can kill mildew.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

When it's time to replace an old refrigerator or freezer, it's important to make sure it's properly recycled. Most home improvement stores and dealers are capable of taking your old appliance and recycling when you buy a new one from them. If you need to dispose of one yourself, it's key to do it right, especially if the appliance was made before 1995 -- freezers and fridges manufactured prior to 1995 contained a type of insulation called CFC-11, which is an ozone-depleting substance. To find a disposal site, visit the EPA's Responsible Appliance Disposal site at epa.gov.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Here's a tip that bears repeating: Not all essential oils in the supermarket are truly natural. The words "naturally derived" on the bottle mean the molecular structure of the oil was derived from a flower or plant in a laboratory. Oils with this description actually can be 100% synthetic. To avoid this kind of oil, look for "USDA certified organic" on the label, or choose oils like peppermint or rosemary, which are plentiful, inexpensive and good choices for a healthy, natural scent at home.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION