20 top cleaning hacks for around the house

Keeping a clean and tidy home can sometimes feel like a never-ending task. However, with the right hacks, you can make cleaning more efficient and even enjoyable. These cleaning hacks utilize common household items to tackle dirt, grime, and odors, saving you time and money.
Whether you’re dealing with stubborn stains or looking to freshen up your space, these tips will help you maintain a spotless home with ease.
1. Whitening Tiles and Grout with Hydrogen Peroxide
Tiles and grout can easily become discolored over time, especially in damp areas like bathrooms. To restore their brightness, mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda to form a paste. Apply this mixture to the grout lines and let it sit for about 10 minutes before scrubbing with a toothbrush. Rinse with water to reveal whiter tiles and grout.
2. Removing Soap Scum with Vinegar and Baking Soda
Soap scum can build up quickly in showers and bathtubs, leaving a dull film. To remove it, sprinkle baking soda over the affected area and spray with white vinegar. The fizzing action helps to break down the soap scum. After a few minutes, scrub with a sponge or brush and rinse thoroughly.
3. Freshening Your Oven with Lemon and Water
Ovens can harbor lingering odors from cooked meals. To freshen it up, fill an oven-safe dish with water and add sliced lemons. Place it in the oven at a low temperature for about 30 minutes. The steam will loosen grime while the lemon neutralizes odors, leaving your oven smelling fresh.
4. Dusting with Dryer Sheets for a Fresh Scent
Dryer sheets are not only great for laundry but also for dusting. Their anti-static properties help to pick up dust and prevent it from resettling. Plus, they leave behind a pleasant scent. Simply use a dryer sheet to wipe down surfaces like baseboards, shelves, and electronics.
5. Cleaning Windows with Newspaper and Vinegar
For streak-free windows, swap out paper towels for newspaper. Spray a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar onto the glass, then wipe with crumpled newspaper. The ink acts as a gentle abrasive, leaving windows sparkling clean without streaks.
6. Unclogging Drains with Baking Soda and Vinegar
A clogged drain can be a hassle, but you can clear it with baking soda and vinegar. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Cover the drain and let the mixture fizz for about 15 minutes. Flush with hot water to clear the blockage.
7. Polishing Wood Furniture with Olive Oil and Lemon Juice
To give wood furniture a natural shine, mix olive oil and lemon juice in a 2:1 ratio. Apply the mixture with a soft cloth, rubbing in the direction of the wood grain. This not only polishes the wood but also conditions it, bringing out its natural beauty.
8. Removing Carpet Stains with Club Soda