Did you know that baking soda, vinegar, borax, salt, citrus and ketchup can be effective, non-toxic cleaners? They are cheap, readily available, and you don’t have to worry about potentially harmful fumes.

• Countertops and Sinks
Baking Soda and Water: Keep counters clean by sprinkling with baking soda, then scrubbing with a damp cloth or sponge. If you have stains, knead the baking soda and water into a paste and let set for a while before you remove. This method also works great for stainless steel sinks, cutting boards, containers, refrigerators, oven tops etc.

Kosher Salt and Water: If you need a tougher abrasive on sinks and cast iron pans, sprinkle on kosher salt, and scrub with a wet cloth or sponge.

Natural Disinfectant: To knock out germs, mix 2 cups of water, 3 tablespoons of liquid soap and 20 to 30 drops of tea tree oil. Spray or rub on countertops and other kitchen surfaces.

• Ovens
Baking Soda and Water: Coat the inside of your appliance with a paste made from water and baking soda. Let stand overnight. Then put on gloves and scour off the grime. Make spotless with a moist cloth.

• Fruits and Vegetables
Baking Soda: Want to remove toxic pesticide residue and germs on your peaches and carrots? Just sprinkle a little baking soda on wet produce, then gently scrub and rinse.