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Before there were aisles filled with fancy sprays and high-tech tools, people relied on what they had at home to keep things spotless. These old-school cleaning hacks may sound simple, but they’re surprisingly effective and often safer for your health, wallet, and the planet. If you want to clean smarter (not harder), these 10 hacks are worth trying out.
A classic combo for a reason. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle for an effective all-purpose cleaner. It cuts through grease, deodorizes surfaces, and even works on glass. Add a few drops of essential oil if you’re not a fan of the vinegar smell. Just avoid using it on natural stone surfaces like granite or marble.
From freshening up carpets to scrubbing the sink, baking soda is the MVP of DIY cleaning. Sprinkle it on surfaces to absorb odors, or mix it with a bit of water to form a gentle abrasive paste. It’s also great for deodorizing trash cans and cleaning your oven without harsh fumes. Affordable and eco-friendly? Yes, please.
Wooden cutting boards need love, too, and this trick keeps them fresh and sanitized. Sprinkle coarse salt over the board and scrub with half a lemon, cut side down. The salt lifts grime, while the lemon’s natural acidity disinfects and leaves a fresh scent. Rinse and dry, and your board will look good as new.
Before microfiber cloths, it was all about a simple, damp rag. Lightly moisten a clean cloth and run it over dusty surfaces to trap particles instead of just moving them around. It’s great for baseboards, shelves, and even plant leaves. Just make sure the cloth isn’t too wet, or you might leave streaks.
If your wooden furniture is looking a little dull, revive it with olive oil. Dab a small amount on a soft cloth and rub it into the wood to add shine and moisture. Some people like to mix in a little lemon juice for a fresh scent and extra cleaning boost. It’s an easy, natural polish that brings back that warm, lived-in glow.
Skip the chemical mothballs and go for a spicier route. Tie cinnamon sticks and whole cloves in small fabric sachets and place them in drawers or closets. Not only do they keep moths at bay, but they also leave your clothes smelling subtly warm and inviting. Plus, they’re totally non-toxic.
Got dull copper pots or décor? Rub them with a half-used lemon dipped in salt. The natural acid and abrasive combo breaks down tarnish fast. Rinse and dry thoroughly to reveal a sparkling shine. It’s one of those oddly satisfying cleaning tasks with instant results.
Sounds strange, but it works! Take a piece of stale white bread, remove the crust, and gently rub it over scuff marks or fingerprints on wallpaper. The bread acts like an eraser, lifting dirt without damaging the surface. Just don’t eat it afterward!
If little artists have gotten creative on your walls, rubbing alcohol is your best friend. Dab a bit on a cotton ball and gently rub over the marks. It breaks down the wax without damaging paint, though it’s always best to spot test first. Bonus: it also works on ink stains.
Water rings on wood furniture are no match for mayo. Dab a small amount of full-fat mayonnaise over the mark, let it sit for at least an hour (or overnight), then wipe it clean. The oil helps rehydrate the wood, and it often lifts the mark entirely. Who knew your sandwich spread had a secret life?
Turns out, your pantry may be just as powerful as your cleaning supply cabinet. These old-school hacks are proof that you don’t need to spend big to get a fresh, clean space. Plus, they come with the added bonus of being more eco-friendly and less toxic than many modern alternatives. So next time you’re cleaning, take a cue from the past. You might just find it works better than expected.
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