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Keeping a clean home can feel like a never-ending task. I’ve learned that having a few simple tricks up my sleeve makes the job much easier. Over the years, I’ve picked up many helpful tips and techniques for tackling household chores.
In this article, I’ll share some of my favorite cleaning hacks that work wonders around the house. These tips will save you time and energy while leaving your home sparkling clean. From the kitchen to the bathroom and everywhere in between, I’ve got you covered with practical advice to make cleaning a breeze.
1. Use baking soda and vinegar for clogged drains
Using common household items, I’ve found a simple way to clear clogged drains. First, I pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain. Then, I slowly add 1/2 cup of vinegar. The mixture fizzes and foams as it works on the clog. I cover the drain with a cloth to keep the reaction inside the pipe. After 30 minutes, I remove the cloth.
Next, I pour boiling water down the drain to flush everything out. If needed, I repeat these steps. This method is often effective for minor clogs. I might need to try other methods or call a plumber for stubborn blockages. But for routine drain maintenance, I use this baking soda and vinegar trick weekly to keep my drains flowing smoothly.
2. Lemon juice to remove hard water stains
I’ve found lemon juice to be a great natural solution for hard water stains. It’s acidic nature helps break down mineral deposits effectively. I cut a lemon in half and rub it directly on the stained areas for faucets and fixtures. I let the juice sit for a few minutes before wiping it clean.
I mix lemon juice and hot water in a spray bottle on larger surfaces like tubs or shower doors. I spray it on, wait 10 minutes, then scrub with a brush. For really tough stains, I make a paste with lemon juice and baking soda. I apply it, let it sit, then rinse off.
Lemon juice works well on glass too. I combine it with white vinegar in a spray bottle for a streak-free shine on windows and mirrors.
3. Dust with microfiber cloths
I always reach for microfiber cloths when dusting my home. These versatile cleaning tools trap dust and dirt effectively without leaving lint behind.
I dampen the cloth slightly with water to help it pick up more particles. I use a dry microfiber cloth to avoid potential damage to delicate surfaces. I always use a fresh, clean section of cloth as I move from one area to another, which prevents dirt from spreading.
After dusting, I rinse the microfiber cloth with warm water to remove the collected debris. I avoid using fabric softener when washing these cloths, as it can reduce their cleaning power.
I mix a little vinegar with water and apply it sparingly with the microfiber cloth for tough surface stains. This usually does the trick without harsh chemicals.
4. Vacuum carpets regularly
I recommend vacuuming carpets at least once a week to keep them clean and fresh. Twice-weekly vacuuming is best for high-traffic areas like living rooms and hallways. Frequent vacuuming removes dirt, dust, and allergens before they settle deep into carpet fibers, helping carpets look better and last longer.
I suggest vacuuming more often if you have pets or allergies. Pet hair and dander can build up quickly in carpets. Vacuuming every other day may be needed in homes with multiple pets.
I make slow passes over each area from different directions to vacuum effectively. This lifts the carpet pile and removes more debris. I pay extra attention to high-traffic zones and areas near doors.
Regular vacuuming maintains the appearance of carpets and creates a cleaner, healthier home environment. It’s a simple but important cleaning task.
5. Sanitize sponges in the microwave
I’ve found a quick and easy way to sanitize kitchen sponges using the microwave. First, I rinse the sponge thoroughly with clean water to remove any food bits. Then I squeeze out excess water so it’s damp but not soaking wet.
I place the damp sponge in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave it on high for 1 minute. The heat kills many germs and bacteria. After microwaving, I let the sponge cool for 10-15 minutes before handling it.
I sometimes add a splash of white vinegar to the bowl for extra cleaning power before microwaving. The vinegar helps eliminate odors and provides additional disinfecting. I make sure to sanitize my sponges this way about once a week. It’s an easy habit that helps keep my kitchen cleaner and safer.
6. Use a squeegee for streak-free windows
I’ve found that using a squeegee is the best way to get streak-free windows. It’s a simple tool, but it works wonders. I start at the top of the window and work my way down. I overlap each stroke slightly to avoid missing spots.
For the best results, I use a mixture of warm water and a small amount of dish soap. This solution effectively lifts dirt and grime. I always clean on a cloudy day or when the windows are in the shade. Sunlight can dry the cleaning solution too quickly and leave streaks.
After squeegeeing, I wipe the edges with a lint-free cloth to catch any drips. This extra step ensures a perfectly clean finish. With practice, I’ve gotten quick and efficient at this method. My windows now sparkle without a streak in sight.
7. Clean the oven with a baking soda paste
I find baking soda paste works great for cleaning ovens. To make it, I mix 3/4 cup baking soda with 1/4 cup warm water. I spread this paste all over the inside of my oven, avoiding the heating elements.
I let it sit overnight or for at least 12 hours. This gives the paste time to break down grease and grime. After waiting, I wipe out the oven with a damp cloth. I sprinkle some dry baking soda on my sponge for stubborn spots for extra scrubbing power.
As a final step, I spray the oven with white vinegar. This makes the remaining baking soda foam up. I wipe everything down one last time with a clean, damp cloth. This method leaves my oven clean and fresh without harsh chemicals.
8. Use white vinegar for a shiny microwave
I love using white vinegar to clean my microwave. It’s easy and effective. Here’s how I do it:
I mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl. I add a splash of lemon juice to help with odors. I put the bowl in the microwave and run it for 5 minutes. The steam loosens all the gunk inside.
After it’s done, I let it sit for a few minutes before opening the door. This gives the steam time to work its magic. I carefully remove the hot bowl with oven mitts and wipe down the inside with a damp cloth or paper towel.
I dip the cloth in the vinegar mixture for stubborn spots and scrub gently. The microwave comes out sparkling clean and smells fresh.
9. Disinfect trash cans with bleach
Bleach is a powerful disinfectant that can tackle smelly trash cans. I mix 1/3 cup of bleach with a gallon of water to create an effective cleaning solution. I start by emptying the trash can completely. Then I pour the bleach solution inside and use a long-handled brush to scrub all surfaces thoroughly.
After scrubbing, I let the solution sit for about 5 minutes to disinfect. This kills germs and helps eliminate odors. I then rinse the trash can well with clean water to remove any leftover bleach residue.
I use the same process for outdoor bins but do the cleaning outside. If possible, I let them air dry in the sun. Regular disinfecting with bleach keeps trash cans clean and odor-free. I aim to do this about once a month for indoor cans and every few months for outdoor ones.
10. Use dryer sheets for dust removal
Dryer sheets are handy tools for dust removal around the house. I’ve found they work great on many surfaces, such as baseboards, window sills, and shelves. The sheets pick up dust easily and leave behind a light scent.
For electronics like TV screens and computer monitors, I gently wipe with a dryer sheet after cleaning. This helps repel dust and keep the screens cleaner longer. Dryer sheets also work well on houseplants. I carefully wipe the leaves to remove dust buildup. The static-reducing properties help prevent dust from settling back quickly.
For furniture, I lightly run a dryer sheet over surfaces. It picks up dust and pet hair effectively. The sheets are especially useful on fabric furniture and lampshades.
11. Clean blinds with an old sock
I’ve found a simple trick for cleaning blinds using an old sock. First, I slip the sock over my hand like a glove. Then I dip it in a mix of equal parts white vinegar and water.
With a damp sock on my hand, I gently wipe each slat of the blinds. The fabric effectively grabs dust and grime. For stubborn spots, I apply a bit more pressure. I work my way down the blinds, flipping the sock to use a clean side. The vinegar solution helps cut through grease and leaves the blinds sparkling.
This method is quick and easy. It lets me clean the blinds without taking them down. Plus, it puts old socks to good use instead of throwing them away.
12. Polish wood with olive oil
I’ve found that olive oil makes an excellent natural wood polish. I mix 1 1/2 cups olive oil with 1/2 cup white vinegar to make a simple polish. I add a few drops of lemon juice or essential oil for a nice scent. I apply a small amount to a soft cloth and rub it gently on wooden furniture.
The olive oil nourishes the wood and gives it a nice shine. The vinegar helps clean the surface. I make sure not to use too much, as that could leave the wood feeling greasy. For tough stains, I let the olive oil sit on the spot for up to an hour before wiping it away. This helps lift out water marks and other blemishes.
I love that this homemade polish is non-toxic and uses ingredients I already have in my kitchen. It leaves my wood furniture looking refreshed and cared for.
13. Freshen garbage disposal with ice cubes and lemon
I’ve found a great way to clean and freshen my garbage disposal using ice cubes and lemon. First, I fill the disposal with ice cubes. Then I add a few lemon wedges on top. I turn on the cold water and run the disposal until the ice is gone. The ice helps scrub away grime and sharpen the blades. The lemon leaves a fresh scent.
For extra cleaning power, I sometimes sprinkle coarse salt with the ice. Baking soda works well, too. I avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals. This method is easy, effective, and uses items I already have at home. I try to do this once a month to keep my disposal clean and odor-free.
14. Remove stains from upholstery with rubbing alcohol
Rubbing alcohol is a great option for tackling tough stains on upholstery. It works well on ink, nail polish, and some oil-based marks. To use it, I first test it on a hidden spot to make sure it won’t damage the fabric. If it’s safe, I dab a small amount of rubbing alcohol onto a clean white cloth.
I gently blot the stain with the cloth, careful not to rub or spread it. As the stain transfers to the cloth, I repeat to a clean section. For stubborn stains, I may need to reapply and blot several times. Once the stain is gone, I rinse the area with cold water and blot dry with a towel.
This method has saved many of my furniture pieces from permanent stains. It’s a simple but effective cleaning trick.
