At a time when we absolutely need to keep our surroundings clean and tidy, but at the same time be mindful of our expenses and our carbon footprint, we can find simple solutions in basic supplies that we already have in our homes. For example, we can make use of white vinegar, baking soda, coconut oil, hydrogen peroxide, etc. to clean parts of our home as well as some items therein. Here are ten cleaning hacks for you.
Stubborn cloth stains. Spilled wine on your favorite white shirt? You can erase the mess by spraying some hydrogen peroxide on stains before washing the article of clothing with soap and water.
Gum disaster. It’s quite difficult to wash off gum from jeans, sofa, or your own hair but if you use some pure oil — coconut or olive, for example — it would be easier to get out of the sticky situation.
Lackluster wood. Instead of using wood polish, a cheaper and healthier alternative would be to use white vinegar (or some olive oil) to bring the shine back to wood, including furniture pieces. Wipe the surface clean with a microfiber rag.Â
Spotty glass windows. Some people have always used old newspaper and water, but vinegar or alcohol will do a better job, actually. Mix white vinegar and water (equal parts), dip a microfiber cloth into the solution, and clean away.
Hard residue on cooking pans. For stubborn dirt or crust that won’t come off, soak the item in soapy water mixed with some baking soda. Wait until the residue softens before washing the pan as usual.
Marble stains. You can easily get rid of stains on marble surfaces by mixing lemon juice and salt until the mixture turns to paste. Use it to remove the stubborn stains.
Stubborn oven crust. Add 1/4 cup lemon juice to 2 cups water and cook it on high for 8 minutes to soften your microwave oven’s hardened interior crust. Make sure you put the solution in a microwave safe container.
Dull silver. Breathe new life onto your silverware by covering them in a cornstarch+water paste mix, allowing it to dry, then buffing the items using soft cloth.
Dirty stovetop. Spills and splashes can’t be avoided when cooking. To clean your stovetop, sprinkle salt over the area, add a bit of water, then wait a while before wiping the surface clean. This also works well for cleaning cutting boards.
Old leather. Leather furniture, shoes, bags, belts, and other items made of leather may be polished using some baby oil. Buff with a soft cloth afterwards to achieve your desired sheen.