How to clean your home using only 2 ingredients

With only baking soda and white vinegar, you have a stellar "green combo" for many household cleaning chores. Whether you're tackling a grimy oven or sprucing up your countertops, these earth-friendly products are great alternatives to harsh chemical products. We asked green cleaning expert Leslie Reichert to share some of her favorite baking soda and vinegar recipes. They'll do the job, save you money and help the environment — all at the same time.

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Carpet spot-cleaner

• White vinegar
• Water

Blot spills from carpet. Spray soiled area with a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar. Blot with a towel. Repeat until spot is gone.

Coffeemakers

• 2 cups of white vinegar

Run vinegar through the brew cycle. Fill reservoir with water. Run through brew cycle again.

Counter cleaner

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 8 drops lemon essential oil, optional