Microfibre cloths such as Ecloth are reportedly very effective and use no chemicals at all.

Enjo have a range of cloths and gloves for cleaning tasks, no chemicals involved. They also minimise their use of packaging.

Also known as bicarbonate of soda, baking soda can be used in place of a commercial abrasive cleaner. It will also absorb odours in the fridge or elsewhere.

Tea-tree oil can be used as an antiseptic, disinfectant, mould remover, and deodoriser for clothing (diluted). It can help heal cuts, burns and infections including athlete's foot, acne and dandruff.

Olive oil can be used to remove fingerprints from stainless steel, or as a furniture polish for hardwoods (mix with lemon juice).It can also be used as a mild painkiller and a skin moisturiser. It is a fuel for oil lamps and is used in soap-making. As a food it is rich in mono-unsaturated fats, and is linked with a reduction in the risk of coronary heart disease.

Lemon juice is acidic and can clean surfaces, remove stains, remove odours (cut one in half and put it in your fridge). When mixed with salt it will clean brass and copper. In the wash it will make your whites whiter and brighten coloureds. Mix with baking soda and vinegar to make a cleaning paste.

To use, mix 1 part vinegar to 1 part water and you can clean just about anything – but avoid marble surfaces which can be eroded. Vinegar can be used as a surface cleaner, de-greaser, de-scaler, window cleaner, deodoriser, fabric softener and mild disinfectant. It will also relieve headaches, help treat burns, ease nausea and stomach ache, cure hiccups and dissolve chewing gum.

Borax is a naturally found mineral that has been used as a cleaner for many years, and is therefore considered safe. It is an antibacterial, fungicidal and bleaching agent. It can be used for a wide range of cleaning jobs including the kitchen, clothing and carpets, and in soaps. It can be bought from hardware shops and chemists, or you can get it on-line.