More and more we’re being cautioned advised unhealthy ingredients and additives that somehow have managed to infiltrate everyday items of consumption and convenience. Pesticides in our produce, BPA in plastic food containers, not to mention the fumes and toxic chemicals in household cleaning products.

And while companies and food manufacturers are now listening and responding to consumer demands for safer products, sometimes their actions aren’t as swift or as strong as we might like them to be.

Still, there’s plenty you can do on your own to help make your home a safer and greener living environment, and using vinegar as a substitute for chemical-based cleaners is a really good place to start.

One bottle of vinegar can replace several bottles of chemical cleaners, and here are just a few ways to make it work for you:

Swinging a rag through the air that has been dampened in vinegar can quickly eliminate foul odors like cigarette smoke or burnt food. If the odors have infiltrated the entire house, leave a cup or bowl of vinegar in each room.

Make your own spray bottle of air freshener by mixing 3 cups water, 1 cup vinegar, and several drops of an essential oil like orange or lemon in a clean spray bottle. Spritz away for a natural, clean, inviting scent without the pricey store-bought stuff.

For a streak-free shine on windows and glass, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a clean spray bottle and use just as you would any commercial glass cleaner.

Eliminate odors in your refrigerator and clean the inside with a half and half solution of white vinegar and water. And the best part? No rinsing required!

Spray undiluted vinegar around window frames and exterior doors to prevent ants from making themselves at home in your house this season.

Reduce the spread of germs by spraying full strength white vinegar on doorknobs and wipe dry.

Give grease the boot from your kitchen exhaust fan hood, stove top, or non-granite counter by scrubbing with a sponge dipped in white vinegar.

At Connor Plumbing, we bring a lot to the green living table. From dual-flush toilets to tankless water heaters, low-flow aerators, new high efficiency water heaters, and much more, you and your family can help conserve natural resources without sacrificing even a bit of comfort with Connor Plumbing as your home comfort partner.