Making your own cleaners not only is better for the environment, but will also save you money. Vinegar or lemon juices are good all purpose cleaners , either full strength for tough stains, or diluted with water for everyday use. For serious stains, you can pour two tablespoons of bleach in one quart of water. Baking soda mixed with a little water works well as a scouring cleanser . Two to four quarts of boiling water poured down the drain is a good preventative for clogs .
Liquid soap is an excellent insecticide .
Mix two to four tablespoons of liquid soap in one gallon of water and spray on leaves. Cream of tartar is an easy way to eliminate ants . Simply sprinkle some over openings - ants will not cross it. Your individual hauler should accept this waste, but if you want to dispose of it yourself, you can call Ramsey County to get the compost site nearest to you. Your regular garbage hauler should also pick up Christmas trees.