Washing Soda

• Sodium carbonate, also known as washing soda, is a favorite cleaning agent available in many grocery stores. This chemical is a salt carbonic acid that breaks down easily and completely into its component elements and presents minimal damage to the environment. Additionally, washing soda provides a tough gritty cleaner that, when mixed with warm water, can handily go to work on stove burners, dried paint and other heavy-duty cleaning chores around the house. Washing soda can also be used around the home as a spray all-purpose cleaner by mixing 1 tbsp. of soda with 2 cups of hot water in a spray bottle.
  
  

Borax

• Sometimes cleaning involves not only the cleaning up of spills but also the removal of infestation or the prevention of mold. Borax, or sodium borate, is effective in treating the home for fleas, cockroaches and other bugs as well as removing mold and mildew. This chemical is also quite safe for children and pets and is often used to soften water in hard water homes. Borax is also used as a deodorant.
  
  

Tea Tree Oil

• Tea tree oil also removes odors and can act as a deterrent to infestation when sprayed on plants. Tea tree oil is taken as a supplement and used as an anti-acne cream and irritant reducer. This oil can be mixed with warm water to create a sanitizing spray or general purpose cleaner. Also, tea tree oil can be used to help remove fungus or mold.
  
  

White Distilled Vinegar

• This item may already be available in your home and features a number of cleaning uses while also being safe enough to cook with. Distilled white vinegar is used to clean and deodorize kitchen drains and food disposers as well as mixed with warm water to clean countertops and microwaves. The vinegar can loosen baked-on foods and other hardened crusty materials.