Three tips from "Heloise" [View all]

KITCHEN Keep a large bottle of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide (available at supermarkets and drug stores) under the kitchen sink. It has multiple uses: sanitize plastic cutting boards, wipe off dirty can opener blades and to kill bacteria in the drain. Be aware that it may lighten surfaces.

BATH For just pennies, you can clean the bathroom sink, bathtub and shower. Buy the cheapest hair shampoo you can (look for sales). I use a plastic scrubber to apply straight from the bottle, then rinse off. Do this after showering and the gunk will not build up!

LAUNDRY For under a quarter, you can make prewash stain remover for washable clothes! Mix 1/3 nonsudsing/clear ammonia, 1/3 dishwashing liquid (NOT dishwasher liquid or gel), 1/3 water. Pour into a clearly labeled spray bottle. Apply to stains and allow to sit for only 5 minutes, then wash ASAP.