Jeanne McLaughlin displays some of the natural cleaning products she uses and recommends to others. Natural soaps such as Dr. Bronner's are sometimes used with the household ingredients.

Following are some common household items and their general use in cleaning as offered by the Penn State Cooperative Extension. Of course, no claims are made as to the effectiveness of using these products.

• Baking soda — cleaner, deodorizer, scouring powder

• Boiling water — drain cleaner

• Lemon — cleaner, deodorizer, stain remover

• Salt — cleaner

• White vinegar — cleaner, deodorizer, grease cutter

• Borax — cleaner, disinfectant, laundry aid, water softener (This product is not completely nonpoisonous but is less toxic than the ready-made counterparts.)

To this list, Jeanne McLaughlin, who is certified as a building biology and ecology consultant with the Institute of Building Biology and Ecology, would add a liquid soap like Dr. Bronner's. She adds a few drops to her all-purpose cleaner made from white vinegar, Borax and hot water. "Liquid soap like this is more expensive, but a little bit goes a long way. And it has essential oil in it so you can get a scent you like."