As consumers we are led to believe that if a product is available from our local grocery store, then it must be safe. Unfortunately, this is not the case when it comes to household detergents and cleaners. From phosphates in detergents that harm aquatic environments to alkalies that remove dirt without scrubbing, acids used in toilet bowl cleaners and other caustic ingredients that are poisonous and can be fatal if swallowed, you are potentially storing a miniature toxic chemical factory under your kitchen sink. By using non-toxic homemade cleaners with everyday ingredients like baking soda, vinegar and borax, you'll create a healthy and safe environment at home and save money while doing so. Here are a few natural cleaning recipes to get you started:

All-Purpose Cleaner

4 tablespoons baking soda
1 quart warm water

Dissolve baking soda in warm water for a general cleaner. Cleans and deodorizes all kitchen and bathroom surfaces. If scrubbing is necessary, use a paste made with baking soda and water or mix salt and water with vinegar.

All-Purpose Cleaner and Disinfectant

2 tablespoons borax
¼ cup lemon juice
2 cups hot water

Combine indredients in a spray bottle. Use instead of commercial all-purpose cleaners. Isopropyl alcohol is also a disinfectant. Apply with a sponge and allow to dry. Make sure the area is well ventilated before use.

Glass Cleaner

¼ cup white vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 quart warm water

Mix ingredients and apply with a sponge or spray bottle. Wipe dry with crumpled newspaper, buff to shine. Do not wash windows that are warm or in direct sunlight, it will cause streaking.

Drain Cleaner

¼ cup baking soda
1 cup white vinegar
1 gallon boiling water

Pour the baking soda down the drain or disposal, followed by the vinegar. Allow the mixture to foam for several minutes, then flush with boiling water. For slow drain, use once a week to keep drain fresh and clog-free.

Toilet Bowl Cleaner

1 cup borax
¼ cup white vinegar

Flush the toilet to wet the sides of the bowl. Sprinkle the borax onto the toilet bowl and then spray with vinegar. Let sit for at least two hours, up to overnight, and then scrub with a toilet brush. Baking soda can be used in place of borax to clean and deodorize as well. Just scrub the bowl immediately after spraying on the vinegar.