11 DIY Cleaning Hacks Using Common Household Items

1. Clean your microwave using vinegar and water.

Fill a microwave-safe bowl with equal parts vinegar and water. Place it in the microwave and heat on high for 5 minutes. The steam created will loosen any stuck-on food or stains. Carefully remove the bowl and wipe down the interior with a damp cloth.

2. A simple way to remove soap scum from your shower.

In a spray bottle mix equal parts white vinegar and dish soap. Spray the solution onto the soap scum and let it sit for 15 minutes. Scrub the area with a sponge or brush, then rinse thoroughly with water. The vinegar and dish soap combination will break down the scum and leave your shower sparkling clean.

3. Freshen up your carpets using baking soda.

Sprinkle baking soda liberally over your carpets and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. The baking soda will absorb odors and freshen up the fibers. Vacuum the carpets thoroughly to remove the baking soda and enjoy a clean and fresh-smelling home. Optional: Add a couple drops of your favorite essential oil to the baking soda.

4. Remove stubborn stains with lemon juice.

Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes. Rinse the garment with cold water and then wash it as usual. The acidic properties of lemon juice help break down the stain and remove it from the fabric.

5. Use Vinegar to clean your windows.

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the windows and wipe them clean with a microfiber cloth or newspaper. The vinegar will cut through dirt and grime, leaving your windows streak-free and shiny.

6. Remove water stains from wooden furniture.

Dip a cloth in a mixture of equal parts vinegar and olive oil. Gently rub the cloth over the water stains in a circular motion. The vinegar will remove the stain while the olive oil will moisturize and protect the wood.

7. A natural way to clean your oven.

Mix baking soda and water to create a paste. Spread the paste over the interior of your oven, avoiding the heating elements. Let it sit overnight, then wipe it clean with a damp cloth. The baking soda will break down grease and grime, making it easy to remove.

8. Remove tarnish from silverware using toothpaste.

Apply a small amount of toothpaste to a soft cloth and gently rub it onto the tarnished silverware. Rinse with warm water and dry thoroughly. The abrasive properties of toothpaste help remove tarnish and restore the shine to your silverware.

9. Remove pet hair from upholstery using a rubber glove.

Put on a rubber glove and dampen it with water. Run your hand over the upholstery, and the pet hair will stick to the glove. Rinse the glove frequently to remove the hair. This simple hack is an effective way to remove pet hair without the need for sticky lint rollers.

10. A Natural way to clean your stainless steel appliances.

In a spray bottle mix equal parts vinegar and water..Spray the solution onto the stainless steel surface and wipe it clean with a microfiber cloth. The vinegar will remove fingerprints and smudges, leaving your appliances shiny and streak-free.

11.  Furniture polish made easy with 2 ingredients.

In a spray bottle or glass jar mix 2 parts olive oil and 1 part lemon juice. Shake well. Spray or wipe on on furniture and polish with a clean soft cloth. 

These 11 DIY cleaning hacks using common household items will save you time and money while keeping your home clean and fresh. Give them a try and see the difference they can make!

Photo by Lauren Mancke on Unsplash