You can continue to fill your home with toxins by purchasing the items found on your local store shelf. However, if you want to create a safer environment for your children, you can create your own cleaners. Wouldn't it be nice to know exactly what was in the bottle you are using? It will cost you a lot less money, and will only require a little preparation on your part.

You will need four basic items to make your own cleaners. Purchase vinegar, baking soda, borax, and hydrogen peroxide next time you are out; if you don't already have them in stock at home. You can make a wide array of cleaners with those items, vinegar being the base in all of them.

If you mix equal parts water and vinegar, you have a great multi-purpose cleaner. Make sure you label the bottle clearly and store it appropriately. Compare this to the cost of Formula 409®, look at the money you just saved! Even better, your child will suffer no esophagus damage if he or she accidentally swallows your homemade recipe.

Not only is vinegar a strong disinfectant, but it also fights grease and dirt. Take the mixture made and use it to clean windows, soap scum, mildew, tubs, or ceramic tiles. If you don't like the smell of vinegar, you can add a few drops of any essential oil to create a different odor. This actually will increase the strength of the cleaner. If your floors or counter tops are made from natural marble, do not use any product containing vinegar.

How about an air freshener that actually removes the odor, instead of just covering it up? Wouldn't that be wonderful? For this container, make sure you select one that will spray a fine mist. Now mix two cups hot water, one teaspoon of baking soda, and allow to dissolve. Now add one teaspoon of vinegar to the bottle. Again if you dislike the scent of vinegar, you may add a drop or two of any essential oil. Mark the bottle clearly as an air freshener and store properly.

Need a strong disinfectant? All you need to do is combine two teaspoons of borax, four tablespoons of vinegar, and three cups hot water. Borax is not non-toxic, but it is safe for the environment. Make sure this mixture is labeled and borax is noted on bottle. Store properly and as always keep out of reach of children.

Hydrogen peroxide has many uses that stretch beyond cleaning out a wound. Many people will only use it for this purpose, but it is also a great for fresh stain removal. The foaming action will actually draw the stain out of the fabric for you. I suggest adding it only to white clothes, as it may cause some discoloration.

Add to your load of whites in the washing machine rather than bleach. It will whiten your clothes just as well, but use care not pour it directly onto the clothes. It will do the same as bleach does, but safe for you and the environment.

Use peroxide after you have wiped your kitchen counters or wooden cutting board down to kill bacteria. These surfaces are known for infestations of bacteria and salmonella. The peroxide will actually kill the bacteria on the surfaces. Another suggestion is to rub the surfaces down with lemon juice to help kill the bacteria.

It should be clear to you now that you do not have to fill your home with harsh chemicals or harmful toxins for the sake of cleaning your home. You can spend a lot less money, using these four base ingredients, yielding the same effectiveness. Keep your home healthy and clean, and make the change today!