7 Kitchen Cleaning Hacks Save Me Every Time

There are several ways by which you can clean your kitchen. Mostly, we clean our kitchens using products specifically designed for cleaning purposes. But there are times when those store-bought cleaners run out, or you don’t have much time to spend on cleaning. In such situations, you mostly long for ways—or more precisely, kitchen hacks—that are time-saving and do not require fancy products for cleaning to happen. Instead, they rely on things you already have in your kitchen, such as lemon, baking soda, and more.

Over the years, I’ve discovered a variety of simple, everyday items that can double as powerful cleaning agents. These hacks not only save money but also make the cleaning process quicker and more efficient. From tackling greasy stovetops to banishing stubborn odors, these tips have become my secret weapons for maintaining a spotless kitchen. Let’s explore some of the most effective methods I’ve come to rely on.

My Go-To Cleaning Ingredients

If I had to pick just two cleaning staples to keep in my kitchen, it would be baking soda and vinegar. These two are affordable, eco-friendly, and ridiculously versatile. For example, when my sink starts to look a little grimy or smells less than fresh, I sprinkle baking soda directly onto the surface, scrub with a damp sponge or a dish brush, and then rinse with vinegar. The fizzing reaction helps break down grease and grime, leaving the sink sparkling clean.

I also use this combo to tackle tough stains on countertops or stovetops. A simple paste made from baking soda and a bit of water works wonders on dried-on food or coffee spills. After letting it sit for a few minutes, I wipe it away with a cloth dampened with vinegar. The result? A clean surface without the need for harsh chemicals.

Keeping My Appliances Grease-Free

Grease buildup on appliances like microwaves, ovens, and range hoods can feel like a losing battle. But over time, I’ve figured out a few tricks that make this chore way less daunting. For the microwave, I fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and a few slices of lemon, then heat it on high for about five minutes. The steam loosens the grease, and the lemon leaves a fresh scent. Afterward, I just wipe down the interior with a damp cloth—easy peasy.

When it comes to the oven, I skip the commercial cleaners. Instead, I mix baking soda with enough water to form a thick paste and spread it over the interior surfaces. After letting it sit overnight, I wipe it away with a damp cloth and follow up with a vinegar spray to remove any residue. It’s gentle, effective, and doesn’t leave behind any chemical odors.

Cleaning My Cutting Boards

Cutting boards, especially wooden ones, can be a breeding ground for bacteria and odors if not cleaned properly. To keep mine in top shape, I sprinkle coarse salt over the surface and scrub it with half a lemon. The salt acts as an abrasive, while the lemon’s acidity helps disinfect and deodorize. After rinsing, I let the board air dry completely before storing it.

For plastic cutting boards, I occasionally soak them in a solution of water and bleach (about one tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water) to kill any lingering bacteria. This step is especially important after handling raw meat or strong-smelling ingredients like garlic and onions.

Cleaning My Dishwasher

Our dishwashers help us clean our dirty dishes, but they also need a little TLC now and then. Over time, food particles and mineral buildup can affect its performance. To keep mine running smoothly, I place a cup of vinegar on the top rack and run an empty cycle on the hottest setting. This helps remove grease and odors while also preventing clogs in the spray arms.

For a deeper clean, I sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short cycle. The combination of vinegar and baking soda ensures that my dishwasher stays fresh and efficient, which means my dishes come out cleaner, too.

Cooking and Cleaning Go Hand in Hand

One of the best habits I’ve adopted is cleaning as I cook. Instead of letting pots, pans, and utensils pile up, I wash them or load them into the dishwasher as soon as I’m done using them. This not only keeps the kitchen tidy but also makes the post-meal cleanup much less overwhelming.

I also make it a point to wipe down countertops and sweep the floor while I’m waiting for water to boil or food to cook. These small efforts add up, and by the time the meal is ready, the kitchen is already halfway clean.

Getting Rid of Stubborn Stains

Stains on countertops, sinks, or even dishes can be frustrating, but I’ve found a few tricks that make them disappear. For coffee or tea stains in mugs, I fill them with hot water and add a denture-cleaning tablet. After letting it sit for about 30 minutes, I rinse the mug, and the stains are gone.

For stainless steel sinks, I use a paste made from baking soda and dish soap to remove water spots and rust stains. I apply the paste with a soft cloth, scrub gently, and then rinse thoroughly. This method restores the sink’s shine without scratching the surface.

Keeping the Garbage Disposal Fresh

The garbage disposal can quickly become a source of unpleasant odors if not maintained properly. To keep it fresh, I grind up citrus peels (like lemon or orange) with a handful of ice cubes. The ice helps sharpen the blades, while the citrus leaves a clean, fresh scent.

I also pour a cup of baking soda, followed by a cup of vinegar, down the disposal every few weeks. After letting the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, I flush it with hot water. This routine keeps the disposal clean and odor-free.

Cleaning My Fridge

Cleaning the fridge used to be a task I dreaded, but I’ve found ways to make it less overwhelming. I start by removing everything from the fridge and wiping down the shelves with a mixture of warm water and dish soap. For stubborn spills or sticky spots, I use a cloth dampened with vinegar.

To prevent future messes, I place a small box of baking soda on one of the shelves to absorb odors. I also use clear containers or bins to group similar items together, which makes it easier to see what’s inside and reduces the chances of forgotten leftovers.

Using Microfiber Cloths

Microfiber cloths have become an essential part of my cleaning routine. They’re incredibly effective at picking up dust, grease, and spills without the need for chemical cleaners. I use them to wipe down countertops, appliances, and even windows.

One of my favorite tricks is to dampen a microfiber cloth with water and use it to clean stainless steel appliances. The cloth removes fingerprints and smudges without leaving streaks, and it’s gentle enough to use on delicate surfaces.

These kitchen cleaning hacks have completely changed the way I approach household chores. By incorporating these simple yet effective strategies into my routine, I’ve been able to maintain a clean and organized kitchen without spending hours scrubbing or relying on expensive products.