Carpets: Remove stains promptly by scraping up solids and blotting liquids; follow by dabbing with a solution of water and vinegar. Sponge with clean water and blot dry. For getting rid of odors and greasy soil, mix 2 parts corn meal with 1 part borax, sprinkle liberally, leave one hour, and vacuum. Using doormats or removing shoes at the door will lessen the need for cleaning.  As a last resort, a solution of water and ammonia can be used; if used, neutralize spot with weak vinegar solution.

Dishes: Use liquid soap or powdered soap. For tougher jobs, add 2-3 tsp. vinegar. In automatic dishwashers, use equal parts borax and washing soda, increasing the proportion of soda if your water is hard. Standard "dishwashing liquids" are detergents designed to create unnecessary suds.

Ovens: Prevention is top priority. Avoid over-filling pans, put a cookie sheet or a piece of foil on bottom rack when baking. Scrape up drips and spills as soon as food is cool enough to handle. When cleanup is needed, use steel wool and washing soda with a small amount of water. As a last resort for particularly bad grime, use 1/2 c. ammonia dissolved in 1 gallon hot water for scrubbing; provide plenty of ventilation.

Drains: Again, prevention is top priority. Some rules-of-thumb: never pour grease down a drain, always use a drain sieve or hair trap, and clean metal screen or stopper mechanism regularly. If necessary, remove hair with a 1/4-inch bend in the end of a coat hanger. For routine maintenance, once a week: pour 1/4 c. baking soda down drain, follow with 1/2 c. vinegar; be sure to close the drain tightly and plug up any overflow opening until the fizzing stops, then flush with 1 gal. of boiling water. For stopped or slowed drains: dissolve 1 lb. washing soda in 3 gal. boiling water, pour down drain, plug up any overflow openings and use a plunger with petroleum jelly on its rim for a good seal. If clog persists, flush drain with same formula and use a plumber's snake.

Tub, Tile and Toilet: Scrub with sponge or firm-bristled brush, using powdered soap and a scouring powder of baking soda, borax or table salt. Use undiluted vinegar to loosen lime deposits.

Windows and Mirrors: For routine cleaning, use 3 tsp. vinegar with 1 qt. warm water. If glass is particularly dirty, first wash with warm soapy water.