Five Surprising Kitchen Cleaning Solutions
Posted by KraftMaid Marketing on 14th Dec 2011
The next time you’re in the middle of a cleaning spree or
preparing your home for a get-together, reach for these everyday household items. They’re all natural, inexpensive and may already be stocked in your home.
Vinegar
A natural disinfectant and deodorizer, white distilled vinegar is an inexpensive, all-purpose cleaner. This natural wonder cleans away soap scum, mineral deposits and tarnish, while its acidity prevents the growth of mold, mildew and some bacteria.
Mix a solution of one part vinegar to one part water in a spray bottle for an effective cleaning solution. Use it to clean your counters, stovetop, appliances and floors.
Ketchup
Who knew America’s favorite condiment could be so useful? To remove tarnish from copper and brass fixtures, or pots and pants, dab some onto a cloth and gently rub. Finish by rinsing with warm water.
Table Salt
Use salt to clean cast iron pots and pans as well as glassware. The coarseness of salt granules adds extra abrasion and scrubbing power, but won’t scratch like a scouring pad.
To clean cast iron, add two tablespoons of oil and place on medium heat. Add three tablespoons of salt and scour with a paper towel until clean. Then rinse and coat with vegetable oil to cure.
Toothpaste
The ingredients that make toothpaste great for your smile also make it great for your kitchen: mild detergent, antibacterial agents and disinfectants. For cleaning, use a standard paste and avoid whitening and tartar-control formulas.
Scrub silverware, chrome fixtures, linoleum floors and stained coffee mugs with a small amount of toothpaste to buff away stains. Rinse thoroughly to remove residue.
Rubbing Alcohol
The next time a permanent marker or ballpoint pen meets your walls, hardwood floors or countertops, head for the medicine cabinet. Pour rubbing alcohol onto a cotton ball and apply to the stain. Repeat until the stain has been removed, then rinse.
When it comes to helpful tips and suggestions for cleaning and caring for your cabinetry, KraftMaid has you covered. Check out our Installation, Care & Cleaning page to learn how to extend the beauty and life of your cabinets. For more tips, as well as style and design advice, head over to KraftMaid’s Facebook and Twitter pages.