Plants are nature’s air filters. They can filter out chemicals in the indoor air we breathe. But some plants are more effective air-scrubbers than others. A former NASA scientist says these four houseplants are exceptionally effective—areca palm, also know as yellow palm or butterfly palm….lady palm…rubber plant… and peace lily. All are relatively easy to grow. So breathe easy!

For more plants that clean indoor air and plant-care tips...

• Beautiful Houseplants That Clean Indoor Air
• How to Get Your Orchid to Rebloom
• #1 Mistake Made with Flowering Houseplants

As you go through your house tidying up for spring, get rid of six things. It can be clothing, an old appliance or anything else that you haven't used in years. Why just six? Because most of us can easily get rid of six things—and six can make a real difference. You'll feel liberated by the space it frees up. If you donate those things to Goodwill or the Salvation Army, you'll know that you’re helping to provide jobs and access to low-cost clothing and household items to people in your community. A win all around!

For more easy cleaning tricks:

• The Queen of Clean’s Amazing Stain-Removal Tricks: For Counters, Carpets, Furniture, More
• A Trick for Spring Cleaning (and Fixing…and Organizing)
• Clean Cleaners

Spring rain means our doormats really get an extra workout. So why not add a splash of color to one of the first things you see when you come home everyday? Buy a bright, new, fun doormat. You'd be surprised how many varieties you can find at a local garden center or shopping mall…and how much brighter a little change like this can make your day.

For more inexpensive ways to brighten your home:

• Beautiful Houseplants That Clean Indoor Air
• A Trick for Spring-Cleaning (and Fixing…and Organizing)
• The Beauty of Outdoor Lighting

When we think of spring-cleaning, most of us think about tidying our homes. But chances are your car could use a little freshening up, too. Take a moment to clear out the clutter, then head for the car wash—or get out the soap and bucket, and do it yourself. Driving in a sparkling car will give you a lift (pun intended) and may even save you money. Anthony Manganiello, author of The Debt-Free Millionaire, says that when his car is squeaky-clean, it seems like a new car and helps him resist the urge to splurge on a new vehicle.

For lots of great ideas for car owners—including how magic can help you avoid a car crash:

• Does Your Car Smell Funny? What that Smell Means
• The 6 Best Hybrid Cars
• Lost a High-Tech Car Key? Here’s What to Do
• How Magic Can Help You Avoid a Car Crash