Flying from Mexico to Seattle with a connection in Houston.

We would like to check our bags. But after clearing customs in IAH, turn them into carry-ons for our flight on to Seattle.

Can we just rip the baggage tags off the suitcase (they are carry-on size) before we reach the baggage drop for thru flights?

Or when we check in in Mexico just have them tag the bags to Houston?

I don't want to create a security problem.......

Thanks