A kitchen sink can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, mold and germs. Instead of reaching for chlorine bleach to disinfect it, use common household ingredients like white vinegar and lemon juice to sanitize your sink. Rub the sink with a cut lemon and spray white vinegar all over the sink, faucet and handles, then wait 30 minutes. The high acidity level of both ingredients will kill most household germs and bacteria. Wipe clean with a damp towel.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Here's my easy way to keep toilets sparkling-clean without the use of chemicals: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of borax and 1/2 cup of white vinegar into the toilet bowl and let it sit for a full 60 minutes before scrubbing. The mixture will bubble and naturally remove stains and odors. After one hour, scrub with a brush and flush away. You can also put two denture cleaner tablets into the bowl and let it sit overnight to really remove stubborn stains like mineral buildup.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

A bathroom that isn't well-ventilated can lead to growth of unpleasant mold and mildew. One way to help prevent this growth is to use special lightbulbs in the overhead lights: LED bulbs that are embedded with ultraviolet light. UV lights have been successful in hospitals in inhibiting microbial growth, so using one in your bathroom can also keep your environment healthy without the use of chemicals. And since LED bulbs are energy-efficient and long-lasting, the UV LED bulb will pay off for many years to come.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION