Every time I go to the grocery store I find myself spending a fortune on cleaning products! Experts say stop wasting your money and learn to be a little greener. After all, why spend a fortune on cleaning products that introduce toxic chemicals into your living space? You can use simple ingredients, such as baking soda, lemons, and vinegar to make effective cleaners that work in every room of your house. Besides being a snap to make, homemade cleaners cost mere pennies!

• Baking Soda. The cleaning powers of baking soda reach far beyond it’s role as a fridge deodorizer. Baking soda works as a non-abrasive scouring cleaner on counter-tops and ovens, and in bathtubs and sinks. It also rids clothes of perspiration odors when used in conjunction with laundry detergent in the washer.
• The next time you do laundry, try adding 1/2 cup of baking soda to a cup to your load.
• Before you vacuum, sprinkle baking soda on your carpet as a deodorizer.
• Lemon Juice. The acid in lemon juice neutralizes hard water deposits, dissolves buildup and dirt on wood, and tarnish on silver.
• White vinegar can be used in place of lemon juice. The infamous strong smell dissipates as the vinegar dries.
• If you need a quick All Purpose Surface Cleaner: Mix together equal parts white vinegar and salt. Scrub surfaces with a natural cleaning cloth.
• Cookware Cleaner: Coarse salt does wonders for scouring copper pans and ceramic baking dishes.
• Disinfectant: Mix 1/2 cup of borax powder with 1 gallon of hot water. Add a few drops of fragrant essential oil such as thyme, rosemary, or lavender. Store the mixture in a labeled spray bottle.

Follow these tips and your home will smell great and you’ll save a lot of money!