Clear the air.

Although it may seem counterintuitive because of belching smokestacks and car tailpipes, indoor air quality is actually worse overall than what you'll find outside. Opening the windows is often the best way to clean your indoor air, but there are plenty of times when windows need to stay shut. That's when the Airwise Purifier from Waterwise comes in. I was skeptical of air purifiers after Consumer Reports roundly declared them useless, but after trying the Airwise in my bedroom for a month, I can say that it definitely did get rid of odors and made my cat- and dog-inhabited room smell fresher. According to the company, the noiseless "photocatalytic lamp" cleaned my air of chemicals, viruses and bacteria, as well as odors. Volatile organic compounds, mold, dust mites, smoke, and pet dander are also said to be neutralized. There are no filters, just the lamp bulb to change once a year, which makes this system very low-maintenance. It's a bit pricey at $449 to $559 (depending on the size), but alleges relief from allergens as well as odors. CONTACT: Waterwise, [phone], www.waterwise.com