As  people become more and more aware of the damage caused by common household chemicals, they have been seeking out alternative cleaning methods that are good for  their home and their health.  There are many fantastic  natural products now available at the store, but did you know  some of the best cleaning products are already sitting in your pantry?

For example, almost any floor or surface can be cleaned with vinegar diluted in a 1:1 solution with water. The smell goes away, but if it is bothersome add lemon juice. (marble and some tile can’t handle the acidity so always test an inconspicuous area) For nearly effortless toilet cleaning, soak your bowl in vinegar (try to get the water down as much as possible) and add baking soda for foaming action. Spot made a mess on the carpet? Clean it with vinegar. It neutralizes odors and prevents repeats.

For a fresher carpet, sprinkle cornstarch and baking soda and vacuum. Baking soda works as an abrasive cleaner as well as a deodorizer.

For your laundry use liquid castille soap or try this recipe for a powder:

1 part grated glycerin soap (must be easily dissolving)

1 part baking soda

1 part washing soda (like is in the plain cleaners)

1 part borax

For fabric softener, use a cup of vinegar in the rinse cycle.

Put a bowl of water with sliced lemons and oranges in your microwave, nuke it for a few minutes and let the steam and natural grease fighting oils do most of the dirty work for you.  Make your hardwood furniture shine by mixing 1 cup olive oil and 1/2 cup lemon juice. For stains on counters and even for scrubbing dishes, cut a lemon in half and sprinkle with baking soda.  Use half a lemon to clean and shine brass and copper.

For windows and mirrors, try 2 teaspoons vinegar in a quart of water (will streak if the window is hot) and clean with crumpled newspaper or 1/2 cup cornstarch in 2 quarts water and clean with a soft cloth.

When you buy these basic ingredients in bulk, the cost becomes even less.  For mere pennies you can keep your home sparkling, fresh, and chemical free!