It's not necessary to invest in expensive products in order to keep your home clean and sweet-smelling. You can clean almost anything with a few products that you probably already have on hand.

You can do lots with baking soda:

To freshen rugs and carpets, sprinkle on baking soda and leave for about 15-30 minutes before vacuuming.

Sprinkle baking soda on those black heel marks on your vinyl flooring. Use a wet sponge to wipe off.

Pour a cup of baking soda down any drain and follow with a few cups of boiling water to keep drains running well and smelling good. You can use baking soda just like you would use a powdered cleanser to clean your sink.

White vinegar is another staple for cleaning:

Use 1/4 cup white vinegar in the rinse, instead of regular fabric softener.

Use vinegar and water in a 1:2 ratio to clean glass surfaces.

Vinegar will clean water spots from stainless steel fixtures.

Mix a little white vinegar, liquid dishwashing soap, and water together for a mild upholstery cleaner. Be sure to test in a hidden spot.

Clean your washing machine of soap scum by adding a 1/2 cup of vinegar and running through a cycle.

Wipe out your refrigerator with vinegar to clean, deodorize, and help prevent mildew.

Hairspray is another item that helps remove stains: spray it on ink spots and wash as usual.

A good way to clean that "ring around the collar" is to pre-treat with a little shampoo. Just work it in with an old toothbrush.

To make your stove top easier to clean, occasionally rub it with car wax.

Experiment a little, and you may find your own ways to add to this list!

Reprinted with permission.