If you're renovating or redecorating a room, think about omitting wall-to-wall carpet, especially if the space is damp. Since damp carpet can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew, wall-to-wall carpet can make it impossible to clean if it's growing underneath the padding. Instead, opt for hardwood or tile floors, which can be softened by the addition of area rugs and modular carpet tiles.

If you think you have mold, don't reach for chlorine bleach. Yes, bleach will kill virtually every kind of mold it comes in contact with, but it only works on nonporous materials like ceramic tile and glass. It does not penetrate materials like drywall and wood, where most people have real mold issues. An alternative is to use nontoxic borax to kill mold. Borax has commonly been used as a natural insecticide, so it's highly effective at remedying other problems, like toxic mold.

With fall weather here, it's a good time to get your gardens and yard in shape so they look and work their best come spring. Start by composting leaves; it's as simple as making a pile of them and mixing in other organic matter. Over time, the pile will break down and turn into beneficial mulch. Speaking of beneficial matter, now is also a good time to add organic fertilizer to your garden soil. These slow-release fertilizers add nutrients and will enhance your soil through the fall and winter months. And if you've been thinking of planting trees around the house, now is a great time to do it. With hot summer rays behind us, trees have a better chance of thriving as long as you plant them before the first frost. Added bonus: Landscaping centers are slower during these months and offer the best prices.