When it comes to keeping our homes spotless, sometimes the old ways are the best ways. Our grandmothers and great-grandmothers had some ingenious housekeeping tricks that are just as effective today. Here are 24 vintage housekeeping hacks that you can still use to make your home clean and fresh without resorting to modern, often expensive, products.
1. Vinegar for All-Purpose Cleaning
Vinegar is a powerful, natural cleaner that can be used to clean everything from windows to floors. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and you have an eco-friendly all-purpose cleaner.
2. Baking Soda for Deodorizing
Baking soda is excellent for absorbing odors. Sprinkle it in your fridge, on carpets, or in shoes to keep things smelling fresh.
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3. Lemon to Remove Stains
Cut a lemon in half and rub it on stains in your cutting boards, countertops, and even your hands. The acidity helps to lift the stains and leave a fresh scent.
4. Salt for Scrubbing
Coarse salt is a great abrasive for cleaning pots and pans without scratching them. It can also be used to scrub cutting boards and sinks.
5. Newspaper for Sparkling Windows
Instead of using paper towels, use old newspapers to wipe down windows and mirrors. They leave a streak-free shine and make use of something you might otherwise throw away.
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6. Toothpaste for Silver Polishing
Non-gel toothpaste can be used to polish silverware. Rub it on with a cloth, rinse, and then buff for a brilliant shine.
7. Tea for Wood Floors
Brew a few tea bags in boiling water, let it cool, and then use the tea to mop your hardwood floors. The tannins in the tea help to enhance the wood’s natural shine.
8. Club Soda for Fabric Stains
Club soda works wonders on fabric stains, especially on carpets. Pour it directly on the stain and blot with a cloth until it lifts out.
9. Cornstarch for Grease Stains
Cornstarch is great for absorbing grease stains from fabrics. Sprinkle it on, let it sit for a bit, and then brush it off.
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10. Chalk for Grease Stains
White chalk can also help remove grease stains from clothes. Rub the chalk on the stain to absorb the grease before washing.
11. Olive Oil for Leather
Olive oil can be used to condition leather furniture and shoes. Apply a small amount with a cloth and buff to a shine.
12. Rice to Clean Bottles
Put uncooked rice into bottles with a bit of water and shake vigorously. The rice scrubs away residue that brushes can’t reach.
13. Potato for Rust Removal
Cut a potato in half and rub it on rusted areas of kitchen utensils or baking pans. The acid in the potato helps to dissolve the rust.
14. Essential Oils for Fresh Scent
Add a few drops of essential oils to your cleaning solutions for a pleasant scent. Lavender, lemon, and eucalyptus are great choices.
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15. Soap for Sticky Drawers
Rub a bar of soap along the edges of sticky drawers to help them slide smoothly.
16. Vanilla Extract for Refrigerator Odors
Soak a cotton ball in vanilla extract and place it in your refrigerator to neutralize odors.
17. Ammonia for Oven Cleaning
Place a bowl of ammonia in a cold oven overnight to loosen grime, making it easier to wipe away the next day.
18. Vinegar and Baking Soda for Drains
Pour a cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar down the drain to clear clogs and keep your pipes fresh.
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19. Baby Powder for Squeaky Floors
Sprinkle baby powder between the boards of squeaky floors to help quiet them.
20. Borax for Laundry
Borax is a natural mineral that can boost the cleaning power of your laundry detergent, remove stains, and deodorize clothes.
21. Lemon for Microwave Cleaning
Place a bowl of water with lemon slices in the microwave and heat until steamy. Wipe down the interior with ease.
22. Aluminum Foil for Ironing
Place a sheet of aluminum foil under your ironing board cover to reflect heat and help iron both sides of your clothes at once.
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23. Bread to Clean Paintings
Use a piece of white bread to gently lift dust and grime from paintings without damaging them.
24. Mayonnaise for Water Rings
Apply a small amount of mayonnaise to water rings on wooden furniture. Let it sit overnight, then wipe away and polish.
These tried-and-true hacks have stood the test of time for a reason. Give them a try and see how these vintage methods can make your housekeeping more efficient and eco-friendly!