Page Contents
Kitchen Cleaning Hacks You Need To Know
Cleaning the kitchen is an essential task that often requires more than just loading the dishwasher and wiping down the countertops. The kitchen is a busy space with various specialty items that require specific cleaning techniques. If you’ve been putting off deep cleaning your kitchen, now is the perfect time to start. In this article, we will share some incredibly useful kitchen cleaning hacks that will leave your kitchen sparkling clean and organized.
Using Kool-Aid to Clean Your Dishwasher
If you’re wondering how to effectively clean your dishwasher, look no further than your pantry. Surprisingly, soda Kool-aid can be used to deep clean your dishwasher. Simply add a packet of unsweetened Lemonade Kool-Aid to the soap holder in the dishwasher and run a cycle. The citric acid in the unsweetened pack acts as a powerful cleaning agent, leaving your dishwasher sparkling clean and ready to take on your dirty dishes.
Baking pan dryer sheets
We all have that one baking pan with stubborn gunk that seems impossible to remove. Instead of scrubbing endlessly, try this handy dryer sheet hack. Place a used or new dryer sheet in the pan and cover with water. Leave it overnight, and in the morning, you’ll find that the gunk wipes away easily. This simple trick will save you time and effort cleaning your pans.
Washing Hands with Stainless Steel
After handling pungent ingredients like garlic or onions, you may find it difficult to get rid of the lingering smell on your hands. Fortunately, there’s an easy solution – stainless steel. Rubbing your hands against a stainless steel object, such as a spoon or faucet, can effectively remove unwanted odors. The chemical reaction between your skin and the stainless steel helps neutralize the odor, leaving your hands smelling fresh and clean.
Get a squeaky clean microwave
The microwave is a kitchen workhorse, but it often gets short shrift when it comes to cleaning. For a squeaky clean microwave, follow this simple hack. Combine water with citrus slices or vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for a few minutes until it boils. Let it sit for 15 minutes so the steam can loosen the grime. Then simply wipe down the inside with a damp cloth. Your microwave will be sparkling clean and free of food splatters.
Refrigerator cleaning hacks
Our refrigerators can harbor all sorts of spills and unpleasant odors. To give your fridge a thorough cleaning, try these helpful hacks. Use a pantyhose-covered yardstick to remove dust and debris from hard-to-reach corners. For lingering odors, place an open box of baking soda or a bowl of activated charcoal in the fridge to absorb unpleasant odors. In addition, wiping down the vegetable crisper with a mixture of water and vinegar will help eliminate odors and keep your refrigerator fresh.
Chemical-free oven cleaning
If you prefer to avoid harsh chemicals when cleaning your oven, this hack is for you. Make a paste of baking soda and vinegar and apply it to the inside of your oven. Let it sit for several hours or overnight to break down grease and grime. Then wipe off the paste with a damp cloth or sponge. This natural cleaning method will leave your oven sparkling clean with no chemical fumes.
Shining Stainless Steel Appliances
Stainless steel appliances can lose their shine over time, but you can restore their luster with this simple hack. Start by washing the surfaces with dish soap and warm water to remove any dirt or residue. Then make a paste with baking soda and vinegar and use it to scrub away scratches, marks, and stains on the stainless steel. Rinse thoroughly and finish with a light coat of olive oil to make your appliances shine.
Getting Wooden Cutting Boards Really Clean
Wooden cutting boards tend to absorb odors and stains, but you can easily clean and sanitize them with this effective hack. Start by sanitizing the cutting board with hydrogen peroxide, making sure to cover the entire surface. To remove stubborn stains, make a paste of baking soda and water and scrub it onto the stains with a sponge or brush. Finally, spray the cutting board with vinegar to deodorize and prepare it for future use.
Clean up broken glass with ease
Dealing with broken glass can be a safety hazard, but these smart hacks make cleanup a breeze. If broken glass is scattered on the floor, use a wet paper towel or a slice of bread to safely pick it up. For broken glass in the dishwasher, rub a cut potato over the shards to attract them like a magnet. Then run an empty cycle to make sure all the tiny pieces of glass are washed out.
Ditch those countertop stains
Countertop stains can be stubborn and unsightly, but you don’t have to live with them. To remove stains from your countertops, make a paste from a mixture of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stained areas and let it sit for a few minutes. Then gently scrub the stains with a soft sponge or cloth. Rinse the countertop thoroughly with water and dry with a clean towel. Your countertops will look clean and fresh.
Bottom Line
Kitchen cleaning doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these kitchen cleaning hacks, you can tackle even the toughest cleaning challenges with ease. From using Kool-Aid to clean your dishwasher to using stainless steel to remove odors, these hacks will help you keep your kitchen sparkling clean and organized. Remember to always keep safety in mind when handling broken glass and use natural alternatives for chemical-free cleaning. Incorporate these hacks into your cleaning routine and your kitchen will become a haven of cleanliness and hygiene.
FAQS
Can I use any flavor of Kool-Aid in my dishwasher?
No, it’s important to use only unsweetened Kool-Aid. The citric acid in the unsweetened package is what effectively cleans the dishwasher.
Do I need to scrub the baking pan after using the paper towel method?
No, the grease on the pan should wipe off easily after using the dryer sheet and water method. Minimal scrubbing should be necessary.
Will washing my hands with stainless steel remove all odors?
While washing your hands with stainless steel can effectively remove many odors, some strong odors may still linger. It is a helpful method, but additional hand washing with soap may be necessary.
Can I use other citrus fruits instead of citrus slices to clean the microwave?
Yes, you can use other citrus fruits such as lemon or lime slices instead of lemon slices. The acidity of the citrus will help loosen dirt and freshen the microwave.
Is it safe to use baking soda and vinegar on all oven surfaces?
Baking soda and vinegar are safe to use on most oven surfaces, including the interior. However, it’s important to check your oven manufacturer’s guidelines for specific cleaning instructions or restrictions.
How often should I clean and disinfect my wooden cutting board?
It is recommended that you clean and sanitize your wooden cutting board after each use. Regular maintenance will help prevent the growth of bacteria and keep your cutting board in optimal condition.