Q: I’ve been trying to track down a recipe I remember for cleaning the house using vinegar, water, ammonia and baking soda. Do you know it? —Michelle, Canada

A: I never recommend using ammonia.

* When ammonia is combined with bleach highly toxic gases are released, which can be fatal.

* Ammonia also is poisonous, a suspected mutagen, corrosive, and explosive when exposed to flame!

* It is highly irritating fume to the eyes, nose, and lungs.

* As for the combination of ingredients you list, acidic vinegar will neutralize the highly alkaline ammonia and baking soda, making them all worthless for cleaning.

Check out the many cleaning recipes in the Healthy Home section of Healthy Living!