Apparently there is a "green cleaning" craze going on (it's about time). From ABC News:
... If people have the time, there are also inexpensive ways to "eco-clean" your own home. Rangan points out that combining basic household items, such as white vinegar, baking soda, olive oil, borax, water and lemon, can work just as well as any premium-priced product.
"There's a little bit of science behind it so you're not just using lemon on everything," she said. "But making your own formulations is pretty easy."
Below are a few natural cleaning tips from GreenerChoice.org, an independent, nonprofit group that collaborates with the Consumer policy Institute. A more complete list of cleaning formulations is available here:
Toilet bowl: Pour one cup of borax into the toilet before going to bed. In the morning, scrub and flush. For an extra-strength cleaner, add 1/4 cup of vinegar to the borax.
Furniture: Mix olive oil and vinegar in a one-to-one ratio and polish with a soft cloth.
Windows: Put three tablespoons of vinegar per one quart water in a spray bottle. For extra-dirty windows, try 1/2 teaspoon of liquid soap, three tablespoons of vinegar, and two cups of water. Shake well.