Spring officially kicks off this week (Thursday, March 20th), bringing with it warmer weather, blooming flowers and that chore we dread every year – spring cleaning. While these household chores need to get done, we’re not always up for a labor intensive project. So, whether you’re short on time or just feeling a little lazy this year, these hacks will help you get some low-key tasks done.
- Clean your microwave the easy way – It turns out, it’s supposed to be cleaned every two weeks, but since no one’s actually doing that, it’s probably long past time to clean your microwave and this makes it simple. Just quarter a lemon, put two slices in a microwave-safe bowl or mug, then run it on high for three minutes, then leave the door closed for five more minutes, so it’s nice and steamy in there. The steam will loosen any stuck-on gunk and you can just wipe it away.
- Take the easy way out with the oven too – Heat it to 150-degrees, then turn it off, put a pot of water on the bottom rack and an oven-safe container with ammonia on the top rack. Close the door and leave them in there overnight, then air it out for 15 minutes in the morning and add some dish soap to the ammonia. Wipe the grime away with a rag and scrubbing sponge and you’re all done.
- Put your bathtub and dishwasher to work – Use the tub to soak and scrub big stuff like oven racks, your broom, fridge shelves, purifier and synthetic rugs. The dishwasher is great for non-dish things like stove knobs, dishpans, and even toothbrush holders.
- Set it and forget it in the bathroom – Descale your shower head overnight by tying a sandwich bag full of vinegar around it. In the morning, take it down, scrub the shower head with an old toothbrush, then run hot water for a minute or two to clear any blockage.
- Clean your ceiling fan without making a mess – You’ll need an old pillowcase to slide over each fan blade, one at a time, pulling it back toward you as you drag the pillowcase across the top. All the dust will go in there and you just dump it out & wash the pillowcase afterward.
- Clean under big appliances in seconds – It’s a pain to move your fridge and oven to clean underneath, but this hack makes it easier. Cut a hole in a sponge, stick a spatula or broom handle in the hole, then shove it as far under the appliance as you can. Scrub back and forth the best you can, and while it won’t get it all clean, it’ll be a lot less gross when you do have to pull the appliances all the way out.
Comments