1. Vinegar - One of the oldest and most well-known household cleaning chemicals, vinegar can be used to clean just about any surface. It is acidic, which means it will break down contaminants like grease and oil, as well as remove soap scum. For tougher stains or areas with high UPF/SPF protections (such as windows), mix 1-part white distilled vinegar to 3 parts water before spraying on your object or wiping clean with a cloth.
2. Baking Soda - This easy-to-use all-around cleaner is great for combatting dirt, dust, and grease. Just sprinkle a small amount on the surface to be cleaned, wait a few minutes for it to work its magic, then gently wipe clean with a cloth or sponge.
3. Lemon - A natural degreaser that can also disinfect surfaces, lemon juice is great for cleaning everything from hardwood floors to stainless steel appliances. Due to its acidic properties, it will degrade grease and oil, so they become less effective at clogging up pores and causing smears or marks on your object. Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto the area you want to clean and rub around with your fingers until the juice begins to disappear. Then use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe clean. If you're looking for an eco-friendlier way to keep your home clean, consider using one of these natural cleaners: vinegar, baking soda, or lemon juice.
3. Glass Cleaner - While a window cleaner may be the go-to choose for cleaning glass, there are times when this is not an option or necessary. For small areas where dealing with chemicals is undesirable, such as window sills and other delicate surfaces near the edges of a pane of glass, baking soda can be used to clean without harming the surface or leaving residue. Pour 1/4 cup baking soda onto a cloth and rub around the outside of each piece of glass until suds are formed. Bubbles will indicate that it's working; once all bubbles have disappeared, wipe with a clean cloth.
4. Carpet Cleaner - If your carpets are heavily stained and need to be replaced, you may want to consider using a cleaner that is specifically designed for this type of surface. Popular choices include carpet ozone cleaners or plant-based detergents such as Mrs. Murphy's All-Purpose Cleaner. For general cleaning, mix 1 cup washing soda with 2 gallons of water and pour over the area you desire to clean. Work into the fibers with a brush or old towel until all stains have been removed.
5. Oven Cleaner - One common concern when it comes to ovens is the potential for bacteria to grow. To clean an oven without harming the finish, first pour 1 quart of white vinegar into a bucket and fill half-way with water. Soak a soft cloth in this solution and wring it out. Wipe around the inside and outside of your oven's door (including any seals or protective devices), then use a damp cloth to wipe down all surfaces inside.
Remember, when it comes to keeping your glassware looking its best, there are many ways you can go about it. Experiment until you find a method that works best for you and your glassware collection! Do you have a glass cleaning tip that we didn't mention? Let us know.