The kitchen isn’t just a place to cook and eat. It’s often the heart of the home, buzzing with activity. As such, it should be no surprise that it demands a bit more cleaning attention than other rooms. Fear not! Here’s an expanded list of some genius kitchen cleaning hacks to help you maintain a fresh and pristine kitchen without breaking a sweat.
1. The Oven Cleaning Magic of Baking Soda
Nobody looks forward to oven cleaning. It’s a tough job, but here’s a trick to make it less daunting. Whip up a homemade cleaning paste using baking soda, a dash of dishwashing liquid, and water. Aim for a pancake batter consistency. Slather it on those grimy oven spots and let it sit for about 15 minutes. A little scrubbing later, and those stains will lift right off. Finish by wiping with a damp cloth and give it a final dry polish with a microfibre cloth.
2. Double Bag Your Bin for Double the Protection
We all dread that moment when the rubbish bag leaks and the bottom of the bin turns into a mess. Here’s a preventive measure: start with double bagging. This way, if the outer bag gives way, the inner one has you covered. This simple step reduces the chances of spills and those unwanted odours.
3. The Natural Stove Top Cleaner
It is inevitable that food will spill onto your stovetop when you cook. This tip makes it easy to clean up spills. Just make a solution with vinegar and water to wipe the stovetop down. For stubborn stains, use more vinegar. As well as cleaning your stovetop, this will also remove smells.
4. Kick-Start Your Day by Emptying the Dishwasher
Running the dishwasher overnight is a common routine. But, in the morning hustle, it’s tempting to leave those clean dishes sitting. Break that habit. By emptying the dishwasher first thing, you not only ensure a clutter-free sink area but also a smoother kitchen workflow throughout the day.
5. Lime Juice and Baking Soda for a Sparkling Stainless-Steel Sink
Your sink works hard so it’s not surprising that it can be clean, but still not look its best. Over time, even the cleanest of sinks can lose their shine. Bring back that sparkle with a blend of lime juice and baking soda. This combo doesn’t just clean – it shines and refreshes your sink, making it look brand new.
6. Stay on Top of Spills
Delays in cleaning spills can lead to stubborn stains and unpleasant odours. To avoid this, always keep a designated kitchen cleaner and cloth within reach. Address spills the moment they happen, and your countertops will always be ready for any cooking.
7. Lemon and Salt: The Dynamic Duo for Wooden Cutting Boards
Wooden cutting boards can retain residue over time. Use lemon and salt for the best cleaning results on your wood cutting boards. To deep clean them, sprinkle a good amount of rock salt and use a halved lemon as a scrubbing brush. Wipe the salt away when done and rinse off the board. Not only does this method clean effectively, but it also leaves your boards smelling citrusy-fresh.
8. The Power of Coffee Grounds for Odour Control
If your kitchen bin can or refrigerator has a lingering odour, coffee grounds might be your saving grace. They act as a natural deodorizer, absorbing unwanted smells. For the trash can, sprinkle a handful at the bottom before putting in a new bag. In the fridge, place a bowl of dry coffee grounds on a shelf and let it work its magic. Within a day, you’ll notice a significant reduction in odours, and you might even catch a hint of that lovely coffee aroma.
9. Effortless Microwave Cleaning with Steam
Microwaves can become a hotspot for splatters and dried food bits. Instead of scrubbing vigorously, use the power of steam. Fill a microwave-safe bowl with equal parts water and vinegar, and throw in a slice of lemon for a pleasant scent. Microwave it on high for 5-7 minutes, allowing the steam to soften the gunk. Once done, carefully remove the bowl (it’ll be hot!) and wipe the microwave’s interior with a cloth. You’ll be amazed at how effortlessly the grime comes off.
Remember, with these hacks and items you likely already have, maintaining a sparkling kitchen becomes less of a chore and more of a routine. Happy cleaning!
For those keen on expanding their cleaning knowledge
What might be lurking in your child’s bedroom carpet
The role of carpet cleaning in enhancing indoor air quality
Hiring a cleaning service for your business: asking the right questions
