10 Handy Kitchen Cleaning Hacks You Should Know

The kitchen is the heart of the home, where we cook, work, and spend quality time with our families. To maintain cleanliness and safety in the kitchen, it’s essential to employ some effective cleaning hacks. Here’s a list of 10 kitchen cleaning hacks you should know.

1- Clean the Oven with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Cleaning the oven is a chore many of us dread due to the baked-on grease and grime that can accumulate over time. However, there’s a highly effective, eco-friendly, and affordable way to tackle this task: baking soda and vinegar.

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Before you begin, ensure that the oven is turned off, unplugged, and completely cool. Safety should always come first when cleaning appliances. Remove any loose debris or large food particles to make the cleaning process more efficient.

Step 2: Create a Baking Soda and Vinegar Paste

Baking soda is a natural abrasive and deodorizer, while vinegar is an excellent degreaser. When combined, these two household staples create a powerful cleaning solution. To make the paste:

• Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water to create a thick paste.
• Spread the paste evenly over the interior surfaces of the oven, avoiding the heating elements and any electrical components. Focus on areas with heavy buildup of grease and grime.

Step 3: Let It Sit

Allow the baking soda paste to sit for at least 12 hours or overnight. This extended contact time is essential to break down the stubborn stains and grease.

Step 4: Scrub and Wipe

After the paste has had time to work its magic, it’s time to start scrubbing. You can use a scrubbing pad or a damp cloth to remove the paste, along with the dissolved grime and residue. The abrasive nature of baking soda makes it easy to scrub away even the most stubborn deposits.

Step 5: Rinse and Finish

Once the majority of the paste and grime are removed, dampen a clean cloth or sponge with water and wipe down the oven’s interior to remove any remaining baking soda residue. Make sure you rinse thoroughly and change the water as needed. You can also use a clean, damp cloth to give the oven a final wipe-down, ensuring it’s free of any residue or odor.

2- Maintain Kitchen Exhaust Fan Filters

Kitchen exhaust fans play a crucial role in keeping your kitchen’s air clean by removing cooking odors, smoke, and airborne particles. Regular maintenance is vital to ensure these exhaust fans operate efficiently. Here’s how you can keep the filters clean:

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

As with any electrical work, start by ensuring the exhaust fan is turned off and disconnected from the power source. Safety is paramount.

Step 2: Remove the Filters

Most exhaust fans have removable filters, making the cleaning process more accessible. Remove the filters carefully, following the manufacturer’s instructions if available.

Step 3: Shake and Vacuum

Take the filters outside, if possible, and give them a good shake to dislodge loose debris. This will help remove larger particles and dust that have accumulated on the surface.

Step 4: Soak in Soapy Water

Fill a sink or basin with warm, soapy water. Submerge the filters in the water and let them soak for about 10-15 minutes. The soapy water will help break down grease and dirt.

Step 5: Scrub with a Brush

After soaking, use a soft brush, like an old toothbrush or a scrubbing brush, to gently scrub the filters. Pay special attention to any areas with heavy buildup. The combination of soaking and scrubbing should loosen and remove most of the grease and grime.

Step 6: Rinse and Dry

Rinse the filters thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residue. Ensure that no cleaning agents are left behind. Let the filters air dry completely before reinstalling them. This step is crucial to prevent moisture buildup in the fan system.

Step 7: Reinstall Filters

Once the filters are dry, carefully reinstall them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure they are securely and correctly positioned.

Step 8: Test the Exhaust Fan

Before considering the job complete, turn the exhaust fan on and ensure it’s functioning properly. Listen for any unusual sounds or vibrations. This final test confirms that everything is back in working order.

By regularly cleaning the oven and maintaining kitchen exhaust fan filters, you can ensure a cleaner and safer kitchen environment. These simple yet effective cleaning techniques not only improve the efficiency of your kitchen appliances but also contribute to a healthier living space.

3- Clean the Sink with Sea Salt

The kitchen sink is one of the most frequently used and vital components of your kitchen. Over time, it accumulates residue, stains, and even foul odors. Sea salt offers an excellent solution for maintaining a clean and fresh kitchen sink.

Step 1: Clear the Sink

Start by removing any dishes, debris, or food particles from the sink. Give it a quick rinse to get rid of the loose dirt and debris.

Step 2: Sprinkle Sea Salt

Generously sprinkle sea salt over the entire surface of the sink. The abrasive nature of sea salt will help scrub away stains, grime, and food residues.

Step 3: Scrub the Sink

Using a damp sponge or cloth, gently scrub the sink’s surface. Focus on areas with stubborn stains or deposits. The sea salt acts as a natural abrasive, making it easier to remove tough build-up.

Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly

After scrubbing, rinse the sink thoroughly with water. Make sure to remove all the sea salt and the loosened grime. Pay close attention to the drain area to ensure it’s free from salt and debris.

Step 5: Polish and Shine (Optional)

If you want to give your sink an extra shine, you can use a small amount of olive oil. Dampen a cloth or paper towel with a few drops of olive oil and wipe down the sink’s surface. This will not only add a beautiful shine but also help repel water and stains.

Step 6: Dispose of Salt Properly

Be cautious when disposing of the salt used for cleaning. You don’t want it to clog your drain or plumbing. It’s best to collect the used salt in a paper towel or a piece of newspaper and throw it in the trash.

4- Use White Vinegar to Clean Pots and Pans

Pots and pans are workhorses in the kitchen and often bear the brunt of cooking-related stains and grease build-up. White vinegar is an incredible and safe way to restore them to their former glory.

Step 1: Assess the Situation

Take a good look at your pot or pan to determine the extent of the stains, burnt-on food, and grease. It’s essential to know what you’re dealing with.

Step 2: Add White Vinegar

Place the pot or pan on the stovetop and add a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. Make sure there’s enough of the solution to cover the stained or burnt areas.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil

Heat the pot or pan with the vinegar and water mixture until it comes to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes. The vinegar’s acidity will help break down the stains and grime.

Step 4: Scrub with a Brush or Sponge

After simmering, turn off the heat and allow the pot or pan to cool. You’ll find that the burnt-on food and stains have loosened considerably. Use a brush or sponge to scrub away the remaining debris. For tough stains, a scrubbing pad can be useful, but be gentle to avoid scratching the cookware.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse the pot or pan with clean water to remove any remaining vinegar residue. Make sure it’s completely clean and free of any vinegar smell.

Step 6: Dry and Re-season (if needed)

Once your pot or pan is clean, make sure to dry it thoroughly to prevent any water spots. If your cookware is cast iron, you might want to re-season it with a light coating of oil to maintain its non-stick surface.

These two kitchen cleaning techniques using sea salt and white vinegar are not only effective but also safe and eco-friendly. They help you maintain a clean and hygienic kitchen, ensuring that your sink and cookware remain in excellent condition for years to come.

5- Freshen Up the Microwave with Baking Soda

The microwave is a kitchen appliance that sees a lot of use and often endures food splatters and spills, resulting in unpleasant odors and stubborn stains. Freshening up your microwave with baking soda is a simple and efficient solution.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

You’ll need baking soda, water, a microwave-safe bowl, and a sponge or cloth for this task.

Step 2: Create a Baking Soda Solution

Mix two tablespoons of baking soda with a cup of water in the microwave-safe bowl. This solution is safe to use and highly effective at removing odors.

Step 3: Microwave the Solution

Place the bowl in the microwave and heat it for 2-3 minutes. The steam generated by the solution will help loosen food splatters and residue.

Step 4: Wipe Down the Interior

After the microwave has cooled down slightly, carefully remove the bowl, and use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the interior. The softened food residue should come off easily, and the baking soda will help eliminate odors.

Step 5: Pay Attention to Stubborn Spots

If you encounter any stubborn stains or food residues, create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply this paste to the affected areas and gently scrub with a sponge or cloth. This should help remove the tough spots.

Step 6: Rinse and Dry

After you’ve cleaned the microwave’s interior, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe down the surfaces and remove any remaining baking soda residue. Make sure to dry the interior to prevent any remaining moisture that could lead to odors.

6- Clean Drain and Garbage Disposal with White Vinegar

A clogged and stinky drain and garbage disposal can be a real nuisance in the kitchen. Fortunately, white vinegar is an excellent natural cleaner that can help tackle these issues effectively.

Step 1: Clear Any Blockages

If you have a clogged drain, it’s essential to remove any visible debris or blockages. Use a drain snake or plunger to dislodge any trapped material.

Step 2: Pour White Vinegar Down the Drain

Once the blockages are removed, pour a cup of white vinegar down the drain. This will help break down grease and eliminate odors.

Step 3: Boil Water

Boil a pot of water, and when it’s at a rolling boil, carefully pour it down the drain. The hot water will help flush away the dissolved debris and further unclog the drain.

Step 4: Let It Sit and Work Its Magic

Allow the vinegar and hot water to sit in the drain for about 15-30 minutes. During this time, the vinegar will continue to break down the debris, while the hot water will carry it away.

Step 5: Run the Garbage Disposal (if applicable)

If you have a garbage disposal, turn it on after the vinegar and hot water treatment to ensure any lingering debris is ground up and flushed away.

Step 6: Repeat if Necessary

For stubborn clogs or persistent odors, you may need to repeat this process until the drain is clear and odor-free.

Step 7: Maintain with Regular Treatments

To prevent future clogs and odors, consider doing this vinegar and hot water treatment regularly, such as once a month. This will help maintain a clean and odor-free drain and garbage disposal.

By using these simple yet effective cleaning methods with baking soda and white vinegar, you can keep your microwave and kitchen drains fresh, clean, and free from odors. It’s a natural and affordable way to maintain a hygienic kitchen environment.

7- Remove Stovetop Grime with Baking Soda and Vinegar

The stovetop is an area that sees a lot of action in the kitchen, and over time, it can accumulate stubborn grime and burnt-on food residue. Fortunately, a combination of baking soda and vinegar can work wonders in restoring its shine.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

For this cleaning task, you’ll need baking soda, white vinegar, a small bowl, a cloth or sponge, and a scrubbing pad (if necessary).

Step 2: Sprinkle Baking Soda

Start by sprinkling a generous amount of baking soda directly onto the stovetop. Pay particular attention to areas with heavy grime and burnt-on residue. The baking soda acts as a natural abrasive and deodorizer.

Step 3: Spray with Vinegar

Place white vinegar in a spray bottle and lightly spray the baking soda. The combination of baking soda and vinegar will create a bubbling reaction that helps break down the grime and stains.

Step 4: Let It Sit

Allow the baking soda and vinegar mixture to sit on the stovetop for about 15-20 minutes. This extended contact time will help soften the grime, making it easier to clean.

Step 5: Scrub and Wipe

After the mixture has had time to work its magic, use a cloth or sponge to scrub the stovetop. The baking soda acts as a mild abrasive that helps remove the grime, while the vinegar’s acidity breaks down stains. For particularly stubborn spots, you can use a scrubbing pad, but be gentle to avoid scratching the surface.

Step 6: Rinse and Dry

Once you’ve scrubbed the stovetop clean, rinse it with clean water to remove any remaining baking soda and vinegar. Make sure to dry the stovetop with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water spots.

Step 7: Polish (Optional)

To give your stovetop an extra shine, you can use a small amount of olive oil. Dampen a cloth or paper towel with a few drops of olive oil and wipe down the stovetop’s surface. This will not only add a beautiful shine but also help repel future grime and stains.

8- Polish Wooden Cabinets with Olive Oil

Wooden cabinets are a beautiful addition to any kitchen, but they can lose their luster over time. Olive oil is an excellent choice for cleaning and shining wooden cabinets without using harsh chemicals.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

You’ll need olive oil, a clean cloth or paper towels, and a small bowl for this task.

Step 2: Create a Cleaning Solution

In a small bowl, pour a small amount of olive oil. You won’t need much, as a little goes a long way.

Step 3: Apply the Olive Oil

Dip a clean cloth or paper towel into the olive oil and apply it to the wooden cabinet’s surface. Be sure to cover the entire area, focusing on any visible stains, scratches, or dull spots.

Step 4: Wipe Down and Polish

Use a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to wipe down the cabinet’s surface, removing any excess olive oil and creating a beautiful shine. You can use a circular motion to buff the wood to a polished finish.

Step 5: Repeat as Needed

If your wooden cabinets require more attention, you can repeat the process. For stubborn stains, you can mix a small amount of baking soda with the olive oil to create a gentle abrasive paste.

Step 6: Maintain Regularly

To keep your wooden cabinets looking their best, consider applying this olive oil treatment periodically. This will help maintain their shine and condition the wood to prevent drying or cracking.

By using these natural and eco-friendly cleaning methods with baking soda, vinegar, and olive oil, you can keep your stovetop and wooden cabinets in excellent condition. These methods are not only effective at removing grime and stains but also safe for you and the environment, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable kitchen.

9- Maintain Dishwasher with White Vinegar

Dishwashers are a kitchen convenience that saves us time and effort, but they, too, require regular maintenance to ensure they function effectively and remain odor-free. White vinegar is a valuable ally in keeping your dishwasher in tip-top shape.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

For this task, you’ll need white vinegar and an empty dishwasher.

Step 2: Empty the Dishwasher

Ensure that the dishwasher is empty and free from any dishes or utensils. It’s crucial to work with an empty machine for proper maintenance.

Step 3: Fill a Cup with White Vinegar

Take a dishwasher-safe cup and fill it with white vinegar. Place the cup securely in the dishwasher’s top rack.

Step 4: Run a Hot Water Cycle

Run a hot water cycle in your dishwasher with the vinegar-filled cup in the top rack. The heat and vinegar will help clean the interior, remove mineral deposits, and eliminate odors.

Step 5: Scrub the Edges and Seals (if needed)

While the dishwasher is running the hot water cycle, you can use a cloth or a small brush to scrub the edges, seals, and door to remove any grime or residues.

Step 6: Finish with Baking Soda (if desired)

If you’d like to add an extra layer of cleaning and deodorizing, you can sprinkle a bit of baking soda on the dishwasher’s bottom and run another short cycle. Baking soda is excellent for absorbing odors.

Step 7: Regular Maintenance

To maintain your dishwasher, it’s a good idea to perform this vinegar treatment monthly or as needed. Regular maintenance will keep your dishwasher clean and odor-free.

10- Clean Stuck-On Food from Pots and Pans with Salt and Baking Soda

Cooking is a joy, but the aftermath can often involve stuck-on food and stains on pots and pans. Fortunately, a combination of salt and baking soda can help you tackle even the toughest grime.

Step 1: Assess the Situation

Examine your pot or pan to gauge the severity of the issue. Understanding the extent of the problem will guide your cleaning strategy.

Step 2: Sprinkle Salt and Baking Soda

Generously sprinkle a mixture of equal parts salt and baking soda directly onto the stuck-on food or stains. The abrasiveness of salt and baking soda will help scrub away the grime.

Step 3: Add Hot Water

Boil a pot of water and pour it into the pot or pan, ensuring it covers the salt and baking soda mixture. The hot water will help dissolve the food residue and aid in the cleaning process.

Step 4: Soak and Scrub

Allow the pot or pan to soak for about 10-15 minutes. The hot water, salt, and baking soda will work together to soften the stuck-on food. After soaking, use a brush, sponge, or a scrubbing pad to scrub away the remaining grime. Be gentle to avoid scratching the cookware.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

Rinse the pot or pan with clean water to remove any remaining salt and baking soda. Ensure that it’s completely clean and free of any residue. Dry the cookware thoroughly to prevent water spots.

Step 6: Re-season (if needed)

For cast iron cookware, consider re-seasoning it by applying a thin layer of cooking oil. This will help maintain the cookware’s non-stick surface.

Step 7: Maintain Regularly

To prevent future stuck-on food, make it a habit to clean your cookware promptly after each use. Regular maintenance will save you time and effort in the long run.

These kitchen cleaning tips, utilizing white vinegar to maintain your dishwasher and salt and baking soda to clean stubborn food from pots and pans, can help you keep your kitchen appliances and cookware in excellent condition. They are not only effective but also environmentally friendly and economical. By incorporating these practices into your kitchen cleaning routine, you can enjoy a cleaner and more efficient cooking space.

These handy kitchen cleaning hacks will help keep your kitchen clean, safe, and manageable. Try applying them to enjoy a cleaner and more comfortable cooking space.