CLEVELAND -- Allergy season has arrived, and consumers spend big bucks to get some relief.

In this week's Betcha Didn't Know, Troubleshooter Chris Caswell reported on which remedies work and which don't.

"I think the latest estimate is $10 billion spent on medications," reported Caswell.

According to allergist Theodore Sher of University Hospitals, patients may waste money on products, such as air filters, which aren't appropriate and may cost hundreds of dollars.

"The most efficient ones are called the hepa-high efficiency particle air removers. They're very, very good, but they don't filter out all the substances," said Sher.

Filters will rid a home's air of pet dander, but it won't do much for mold, dust mites, or ragweed.

When performing household chores, such as vacuuming, dust mite allergens may stir up and cause sneezing. Facemasks really work and cost less than $1 a piece. Also, use double bags to avoid re-dispersing the stuff that gets blown out the back.

Dust mites also lurk where you sleep, so use specially designed mattress and pillow covers to keep dust mites out. It costs $37 for a set.

You may want to buy washable toys when considering kids' allergies.

It may be worth it to try these remedies before you ask your doctor to prescribe an allergy pill.