Squeaky clean hacks for the home

Home

Archive

Advertise

Contact

Custom Search

Published September 16th, 2020

Squeaky clean hacks for the home

By Amanda Eck

Photo provided

Since we have all been spending more time indoors this year, I decided to do some research on some fun and interesting cleaning hacks. Having everyone at home 24-7 has definitely led to a messier house. I am excited to try out some of these tips this weekend. Maybe I can convince the kiddos to join in?

Use dryer sheets to clean your pans

Who knew dryer sheets could also clean your pots and pans? Stubborn baked on food can easily be removed by placing the pan in the sink with warm water, soap and a dyer sheet. Let it sit for an hour or so and then rinse off with clean water.

Scrub your cast iron skillet with a potato

Add some coarse salt into the pan and then use a potato cut in half to scrub off the grime. Rinse with warm water and dry immediately.

Detox garbage disposal with lemons and limes

I have been using this trick for years and it works. Toss in a few cut up lemons or limes and turn on the disposal.

Use a squeegee to remove hairs from carpet

This is a great tip if you have pets or even humans who shed (my husband hates it because he's always finding my long hairs all around the house). Use the squeegee to rake the carpet before vacuuming, this will help keep your vacuum from getting clogged up.

Clean your blender

We like to make smoothies every morning and sometimes (OK, many times) I forget to clean it out right away only to have to spend the evening scrubbing it out. Get into the habit of immediately adding warm soapy water to your blender and turn it on for a bit to clean it out. If you have stubborn stains use warm water and baking soda.

Use vodka to get rid of mildew

Who knew that the bottle of vodka in your freezer was not just for quarantine stress relief? If you've got mildew in your bathroom this will get it out in no time. Use a mix of 50-50 water and vodka in a spray bottle. Spray the area and let it sit for 10-20 minutes then rinse with warm water.

Use a paper towel tube on the vacuum cleaner

If you have hard areas to reach with a vacuum (i.e. the rails of your slider doors, window sills, etc.) Take an empty paper towel tube and attach it the end of the vacuum hose, pinch it to the size you need and get into all those nooks and crannies.

Stainless and Chrome faucets/sinks

This tip I learned years ago while working in a veterinarian office. Wipe down the stainless or chrome faucet with rubbing alcohol, then add a little mineral oil to a soft cloth to buff out fingerprints and make them shine.

Banish stray marks from coloring time

Toothpaste will erase marker stains from wood. Use a soft cloth and a dab of toothpaste to rub out marker stains. This will not work if it's permanent marker (ask me how I know), but Magic Eraser to the rescue for permanent marks - just be careful on real wood pieces, you may want to test an area before trying this.

Smells like home

Now that you've cleaned everything it's time for some yummy welcoming smells. Yes, lighting a candle is easy, but due to our poor air quality we've had lately that is the last thing I want to do. So, a good stove top simmer to the rescue. Toss in some sliced lemons or oranges to a pot of water and add some cinnamon sticks or cloves, place them on low heat for an hour or two. Make sure to keep an eye on it so the water doesn't evaporate and leave you with burning lemons. But hey, if it does happen, you'll know to use dyer sheets to get it out!

I hope these tips inspired you to do a little deep clean in your home this weekend. Stay safe everyone and until next time!

Photo provided

As the Owner and Principal Designer of Lamorinda-based Amanda Carol Interiors, Amanda Eck believes your home's interior should be both approachable and well- appointed. She often asserts, "Beauty is a necessity." With a distinct sense of style that mixes contemporary and classic design she fashions spaces that are both elegant and inviting. Her design aesthetic is inspired by anything visual but especially fashion, architecture and art. Visit http://amandacarolinteriors.com for more design ideas.



		print story Before you print this article, please remember that it will remain in our archive for you to visit anytime. download pdf (use the pdf document for best printing results!)
		Comments
		Send your comment to: info@lamorindaweekly.com Reach the reporter at: info@lamorindaweekly.com

		This article was published on Page D1 / D4:

Quick Links for LamorindaWeekly.com
Home Archive Advertise send artwork to: ads@lamorindaweekly.com Classified ads Lamorinda Service Directory About us and How to Contact us Submit Letter to the Editor Send stories or ideas to: storydesk@lamorindaweekly.com Send sports stories and photos to: sportsdesk@lamorindaweekly.com Subscribe to receive a delivered or mailed copy Subscribe to receive storylinks by email	Content Civic Lafayette Moraga Orinda MOFD Life Sports Schools Business Food Our Homes Letters/Opinions Calendar
Copyright Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA