Fabric Softener
To make your own fabric softener "sheet," dip a sponge in liquid fabric softener diluted with an equal amount of water. Toss the squeezed-out sponge in the dryer along with your load of clothes. The sponge acts just like a fabric softener sheet, at a fraction of the price.

Spray Starch
To make your own spray starch, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 cups water. Pour into a spray bottle. Shake the mixture before each use. Spray directly on clothing.

Stain Remover

1/2 cup ammonia
1/4 cup baking soda
2 quarts water
1/2 cup white vinegar
1 tablespoon liquid soap

Mix together and pour into a spray bottle. Spray on stain and let it soak for a few minutes before washing. Always shake before using.

Anti-static Spray
Mix one part liquid fabric softener and 20 parts water in a spray bottle. Spray on clinging dresses or pantyhose.

Dust Cloths
Make your own dust cloths by dipping cheesecloth into a mixture of 2 cups water and 1/4 cup lemon oil. Do not rinse, and allow to dry thoroughly before using. When dirty, wash and repeat.

Grout Cleaner

1 cup baking soda
1 cup ammonia
1/2 cup vinegar

Place in gallon jug with enough warm water to fill it. Mix ingredients completely.

Bubble Bath
Mix 2 cups vegetable oil, a few drops of perfume, and 2 tablespoons shampoo; beat at high speed for 2 to 3 minutes. Keep in a tightly closed bottle. Use about 2 tablespoons in each bath.

Liquid Hand Soap
Save all your leftover soap slivers and grate them using a cheese grater. Mix with water (1 part soap to 3 parts water). Melt on stove or in microwave. Beat until smooth.

Roach Balls
Mix 1/4 cup shortening with 1/8 cup sugar. In a separate container, mix 1/2 pound of powdered boric acid and 1/2 cup flour. Add to shortening mixture. Stir well with enough water to make a soft dough. Form into small balls, and place them in corners and dark places (out of reach of children and pets).

Homemade Play-dough for Kids

2 cups flour
1 cup salt
2 cups water
2 tablespoons cooking oil
4 teaspoons cream of tartar
few drops of food coloring

Mix all ingredients in a blender until lumps are out. Lightly coat a saucepan with cooking oil spray. Pour in mixture and cook over low heat, stirring constantly. When it thickens to desired consistency, remove from heat and cool. Knead it a little as it cools. Place in plastic container with lid after it is completely cooled.