One of the easiest ways to help flush out toxins in your home is really this simple: Open a window. During the cool months, airtight homes can lock in air pollution, making the indoor air quality of your home actually worse than that of the outdoors. Use the warmer weather to improve ventilation and air circulation by opening a window in the front and back of the house, creating a tunnel effect. Just a few minutes a day can go a long way to make your home fresher and cleaner.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

A recent press release from the animal sciences department at Purdue University has one thing to tell you: Don't panic and buy chickens for your yard. Recent shortages in eggs and meat have caused an uptick in people purchasing chicks to raise in their backyard. But scientists at the university warn many people are blindly buying chicks, with no understanding of how to raise the animals. For example, it can take six months for a chick to mature and start to lay eggs. And the animals are very dependent on humans for shelter, food and water, which many people are not equipped to provide.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

When there is too much dust and dander in the air and on your furniture, it can provoke an allergic reaction that can range from minor sniffles to flu-like symptoms. Take the time to give your upholstery and mattresses a good cleaning with your vacuum. Use the handheld attachment to vacuum up dust from inside crevices, on cushions and on the backs of upholstered furniture. Are the cases or slipcovers machine-washable? Strip the furniture and give it all a good wash and dry. Vacuum bare mattresses and wipe them down with a damp (not soaking) towel and allow to dry before dressing the bed again.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION