Cleaning Green

Step1
Use baking soda to scrub like any scouring powder. Unlike traditional scouring powders, baking soda doesn't scratch surfaces and is non-toxic. So scrub surfaces like kitchen counters with a sponge sprinkled with baking soda, then rinse the surface with either water or vinegar.

Step2
Remove dirt and buildup with vinegar. Use vinegar full-strength for tough cleaning jobs and to remove lime or hard water stains, or mix the vinegar with warm water for a milder green cleaner.

Step3
Make an all-purpose green cleaner by combining 1 tsp. borax, 1 tsp. baking soda, 2 tsp. vinegar, ½ tsp. dish soap or mild castile soap, 1 tsp. fresh lemon juice and 2 cups hot water. Store in a spray bottle and use like any all-purpose cleaner.

Step4
Clean tile and linoleum floors with dish soap or mild castile soap such as Dr. Bronner's. Mix 2 tsp. of soap with 3 gallons hot water. Mop or wipe the floor with the solution, and then rinse with 1 cup of vinegar mixed with 3 gallons of cold water.

Step5
Polish wood floors with a mixture of equal parts vinegar and vegetable oil. Rub the polish into the floor, then buff with a soft cloth.

Step6
Remove stains from carpets and upholstery with club soda. Immediately saturate stains with club soda and blot until the stain is removed. Follow with a vinegar-water solution if the stain smells.

Step7
Get streak-free glass by combining ¼ cup vinegar with 4 cups club soda. Use rags made from T-shirts or use crumpled newspaper for cleaning to avoid lint on your glass.

Step8
Freshen the air with a non-toxic baking powder spray. Combine 2 tbsp. baking soda with 2 cups hot water, and stir until dissolved. Add fresh lemon juice or any essential oils. Store in a spray bottle and mist into the air to freshen it.