Cooking for our family is always a pleasure. Seeing their happy faces after enjoying a meal brings joy to our hearts. However, if we don’t take precautions during food preparation, their smiles could quickly turn into frowns due to stomach problems caused by tainted food. Let’s make sure to avoid that, shall we?
Therefore, it is important to maintain cleanliness in our kitchens. This is because there are countless microorganisms present on kitchen surfaces and appliances, as stated in a study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). However, this can be a challenging task, particularly when it comes to cleaning greasy ovens and their difficult-to-reach areas. In fact, it is possible that you may even discover remnants of raw meat from last week still lingering inside the oven.
Are you fed up with the hassle of dealing with a dirty and greasy oven? Well, fret no more! In this article, we will share with you 8 expert tips to help you get the most out of your oven cleaning routine. Whether you are dealing with burnt-on food, stubborn grease, or unpleasant odors, these tips will ensure that your oven shines like new.
Maintaining a clean oven not only enhances the visual appeal of your kitchen but also improves the efficiency and safety of your appliance. From using natural ingredients to leveraging the right tools and techniques, we have you covered. Our tips will save you time and effort, allowing you to enjoy hassle-free cooking and baking.
At Cleanrific, we are fully aware of this challenge, which is why we have compiled 8 effective tips for cleaning your oven to maximize its performance.
Oven Cleaning Hacks
1. Oven Cleaning, Quick fix with salt
When using an oven for baking or roasting, it is likely that there will be some spillage. However, there is a simple solution to make cleaning up food stains easier: sprinkle salt directly onto the spills or leaks. As a natural absorbent, salt can effectively soak up grease. Once it comes into contact with water, the salt will dissolve and create a saline solution that can effectively break down stains made from proteins. This tip is recommended by The Active Times for using salt as a cleaning agent in the kitchen, including on pots and cutting boards.
2. Use a heat-resistant water container
Once you have finished using your oven, place a heat-resistant container filled with water inside immediately, without turning off the oven. Allow it to sit for 20 minutes to help loosen any stubborn grease and dirt. Then, turn off the oven and let it cool down for a short period of time. Once the temperature has become safe to handle, use a microfibre cloth or paper towel to wipe the inside of the oven.
3. Clean naturally with vinegar and baking soda
Feeling concerned about the potency of your commercial degreaser? Why not opt for a more natural approach and create your own degreaser at home?
Vinegar and baking soda have multiple purposes, one of which is cooking. However, their properties as non-toxic antimicrobial agents are also well-known. As a result, they are commonly employed in the cleaning of household surfaces and appliances, such as ovens.
For degreasing purposes, apply a mixture of ½ cup baking soda and water onto the inside of the oven, avoiding the heating elements. Allow the paste to sit for a minimum of 2 hours. Afterward, use a spray bottle with equal amounts of water and vinegar to create a foaming reaction with the baking soda, effectively eliminating any stains.
Whenever you have spills or drips in your oven, wipe them up as soon as possible. This prevents them from hardening and becoming more difficult to clean later on.
Consider using oven liners or aluminum foil to catch any drips or spills. These liners can be easily removed and cleaned, preventing them from sticking to the oven surfaces.
Clean your oven racks regularly using warm soapy water or a suitable cleaning solution. This prevents the buildup of grease and grime that can affect the cleanliness of your oven.
4. Loosen grimes with lemons
Similar to vinegar, lemons possess a mildly acidic property which is beneficial in eliminating stains. However, it is not recommended to directly apply lemon juice onto the oven surface as it can potentially cause damage. A safer method is to place a pan of lemon juice and a small amount of water inside a preheated oven. As the oven heats up, the liquid will boil and produce steam that can effectively loosen the accumulation of oil and grime. This will make it simpler for you to clean the stains.
Lemon juice is a natural acid that can help dissolve grease and remove stubborn stains. Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto the oven surfaces and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Scrub gently and rinse thoroughly.
5. Give it a good brushing
Given the complex construction of ovens, certain parts are incredibly difficult to access manually. Luckily, our toothbrushes have a slender design that allows them to fit into tight oven compartments and tricky corners. Just dip the toothbrush into a cleaning solution, reach into the interior, and presto! You can bid farewell to persistent, hard-to-remove stains.
6. Use a trimmed microfibre brush
For those who are not at ease with using a toothbrush to clean the nooks and crannies of the oven, including the spaces between the glass panels on the door, a simple solution is to make a brush out of a trimmed microfibre cloth. This method is equally as efficient.
7. Cover your oven with an easy-clean sheet
In order to avoid staining problems with your oven, it is recommended to utilize a convenient and easy-to-clean oven sheet. Simply cover the base of the oven with the sheet, which will effectively catch any splatters or spills before they reach the surface. After washing the sheet thoroughly, it can even be reused.
8. Clean every three months
It’s recommended to regularly clean your oven as a preventive measure, such as deep cleaning every three months and sanitizing the exterior each time. This will make it easier to remove stubborn stains and bacteria, as leaving dirt and grease for a long time can make the cleaning process more difficult. Therefore, it’s important to keep your oven clean on a frequent basis.
Final Thoughts
Implementing these tips may require some extra effort, but it will also ensure that your oven remains in excellent condition for a considerable period. Considering the benefits of this, following these suggestions is a small sacrifice for the tasty and safe meals we can prepare for our family and ourselves. Need assistance? The team at Cleanrific is always available to offer professional house cleaning services. Easily book our services online in just a minute and we will connect you with a dependable and skilled house cleaner.
Cleaning your oven doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following the 8 expert tips shared in this article, you can achieve a sparkling clean oven that not only enhances the visual appeal of your kitchen but also improves its efficiency and safety.
Whether you choose to use natural cleaning solutions, hire professional oven cleaning services, or a combination of both, maintaining a clean oven is essential for optimal cooking performance and longevity of your appliance. With a clean oven, you can enjoy hassle-free cooking and baking, as well as a healthier and safer environment for you and your family.
Following nearly two years of living in a pandemic, face masks have become a common sight for the majority of us. It could even be argued that they have become an essential item. Whether we are attending school, going to the mall, or visiting the theater, wearing a face mask is mandatory in all public spaces.
Due to the increasing demand, there has been a significant increase in the accumulation of disposable face masks in landfills. Globally, it is estimated that approximately 3 million disposable face masks are disposed of every minute. This is particularly concerning for the environment as these masks are composed of multiple layers of polypropylene, a type of thermoplastic that can take several years to decompose.
One potential resolution to this problem is the use of cloth face coverings, which may offer reduced protection but are more environmentally friendly due to their ability to be reused. However, it can be difficult to determine if a face mask has been adequately cleaned and is safe to wear again.
If we happen to have a common issue, then this is the perfect destination for you. Here are some pointers for washing and maintaining face masks that could potentially increase your sense of security and assurance when using reusable masks.
Wearing face masks has become an essential part of our daily lives, protecting us and others from the spread of COVID-19 and other airborne contaminants. However, it’s important to remember that wearing a mask is only effective if it is clean and properly maintained. Regular washing and cleaning of face masks are crucial to ensure their effectiveness and your safety.
How To Wash & Clean Face Mask?
1. Face Mask Cleaning Soapy Water
According to doctors, it is advised to wash face masks on a daily basis in order to decrease the chances of getting infected. It may appear challenging to adhere to this routine due to the hectic schedules of individuals. However, the task of cleaning a face mask is not as tedious as it may seem. Simply handwashing the masks with warm water and a mild detergent or soap is usually enough, especially if the masks were only worn for a quick errand.
Over time, face masks may develop stains or odors due to regular use. To remove stains, pretreat the affected area with a stain remover or a mixture of baking soda and water. Gently scrub the stain and rinse it thoroughly before washing the mask. For odors, you can add a few drops of essential oil or vinegar to the washing process to help eliminate any unpleasant smells.
Disposable face masks are intended for single-use and should be discarded after wearing them for a maximum of eight hours or when they become damp or visibly soiled. It is not recommended to wash or reuse disposable masks, as they are not designed for that purpose. Proper disposal of disposable masks is crucial to prevent the spread of germs and ensure your safety.
2. Bleach
If you are still uncomfortable using warm soapy water, an alternative option is to use a solution with bleach. Bleach is known to be a stronger disinfectant compared to detergents because of its main component, sodium hypochlorite. It eliminates bacteria, fungi, and viruses by altering the essential proteins in these tiny organisms.
Simply soak the mask in a bleach solution and rinse it well after a short period of time. There are different ratios of bleach to water that you can use. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests using one of these solutions at room temperature:
Use four teaspoons of bleach for every quart of water.
Mix five tablespoons of bleach with a gallon of water.
3. Washing Machine
If you are too busy and unable to hand wash your face masks, using a washing machine is also an option. This is especially helpful when washing a large number of masks at once.
To use this technique, run the masks through a washing cycle in the machine and adjust the dryer to the hot setting to enhance its efficiency. When it comes to selecting a detergent, opt for one that includes hydrogen peroxide, a potent disinfectant.
When washing your cloth face mask, it is best to use a mild detergent and warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage the fabric and reduce the effectiveness of the mask. Gently handwash your mask, making sure to scrub all areas thoroughly. Pay special attention to the areas that come into contact with your face, such as the nose and mouth. Rinse the mask well to remove any soap residue and allow it to air-dry completely before using it again.
4. Ultraviolet
One alternative to consider is the utilization of ultraviolet (UV) light. In particular, according to a study, UV-C light has been found to eliminate 99.9% of bacteria and viruses without producing any undesirable by-products. Thus, it is a reliable and harmless method. The only drawback of applying UV is its expense and potential damage to the fibers of the face mask.
In case you still intend to utilize it, there are different types of UV-C LED lights available. A UV bag can be chosen if you wish to sanitize not just your masks but also other objects, as the bag is typically spacious enough to accommodate them. Alternatively, you may use a UV-C wand to manually hover and sanitize your masks and any other frequently touched objects.
Sprays of Disinfectant with Hospital-Grade Quality
Final Thoughts
In these challenging times, it is always better to be cautious. Neglecting small things, such as not properly sanitizing your face masks, can quickly lead to more severe issues and complications. Therefore, to protect yourself and your loved ones from viruses, it is essential to follow these recommendations.
If you’re unsure of what steps to take, you can seek assistance from professional house cleaning companies such as Cleanrific (https://cleanrific.com.au/). We also offer comprehensive house cleaning solutions (https://cleanrific.com.au/cleaning_services/house-cleaning/) to ensure a clean and germ-free environment for storing face masks. Our goal is to provide every household with the hygiene and well-being they deserve.
Proper washing and cleaning of face masks are essential to maintain their effectiveness and ensure your health and safety. Whether you have a reusable cloth mask or a disposable one, regular cleaning is crucial to remove any dirt, bacteria, or viruses that may be present on the surface. By following the expert tips and guidelines provided in this article, you can effectively wash and clean your face masks, keeping them clean, hygienic, and ready for use. Remember, wearing a mask is not only about protecting yourself but also about protecting others, so let’s do our part in keeping our masks clean and effective.
Glass cleaning is commonly seen as an easy task, leading us to feel satisfied with our work after quickly wiping down our windows. This feeling is understandable, as it may seem effective at first. However, it is not until natural light exposes the unappealing white streaks do we realize the true result of our mediocre cleaning.
It is commonly accepted that the presence of streaks is unappealing, particularly when anticipating guests. However, one may question what other options are available when simply cleaning glass. If the task is approached with greater diligence, there are numerous alternatives to simply wiping with a damp cloth.
Get ready and grab your notepad as we present these tried and tested yet simple and effective suggestions for cleaning the glass in your home.
Achieving spotless glass in your home can be a daunting task, especially when streaks and smudges seem impossible to get rid of. But fear not, because we’ve got you covered with our expert home glass cleaning tips. With these simple yet effective techniques, you can say goodbye to smudges and hello to crystal clear windows and mirrors.
How To Do Home Glass Cleaning?
1. Start with dusting
There is a strong temptation to quickly clean glass surfaces (such as windows, tables, or kitchenware) with water. It may seem clear at first, but over time, unappealing white streaks will form, giving the glass a lacklustre appearance. This is because the initial layer of dust particles was not properly removed, causing them to stick to the glass after being wet with water.
To achieve long-lasting results, it is important to begin by removing primary dust and dirt. It is also necessary to clean any items or fabrics that are in close proximity to the glass.
Using regular household cleaners: Many household cleaners contain chemicals that can leave behind residues or streaks on your glass. It’s important to use a streak-free glass cleaner specifically designed for glass surfaces.
Remove loose dirt and dust: Begin by using a dry microfiber cloth to remove any loose dirt or dust from the glass surface. This will prevent the dirt from being spread around and causing streaks during the cleaning process.
2. Use distilled water
Glass is a unique material due to its transparent and flawless appearance. However, this also makes maintaining glass surfaces more difficult. Any tiny flaw is amplified on a glass surface, making it crucial to keep it in pristine condition. This applies even to the quality of water used for cleaning glass.
The quality of tap water can vary depending on the location. In certain areas, it may contain high levels of minerals such as magnesium and calcium, which is known as hard water. This type of water can negatively affect the effectiveness of glass cleaners, leaving behind streaks.
To avoid such situations, you have the option of using distilled water to dilute your cleaning solution. This will prevent the formation of stubborn residues caused by excessive mineral content.
Using paper towels or newspaper: While it may seem convenient, using paper towels or newspaper to clean glass can leave behind lint or fibers, resulting in streaks. Instead, opt for a microfiber cloth, which is lint-free and can effectively remove dirt and grime.
Spray the glass cleaner: Next, spray the streak-free glass cleaner onto the glass surface. Be sure to apply the cleaner evenly, covering the entire area that needs to be cleaned.
3. Apply vinegar
That’s correct. Once again, we are discussing vinegar. In addition to its ability to enhance food and repel pests, vinegar is renowned for its natural cleaning capabilities. As a result, it serves as a powerful, non-toxic, and antibacterial cleaner for glass surfaces.
In order to utilize vinegar as a cleaning agent, it is necessary to create a spray bottle containing equal amounts of water and vinegar. An alternative method of using vinegar for cleaning, according to a DIY recipe from The Spruce, is to add 1 cup of rubbing alcohol to the mixture.
One downside to utilizing vinegar is enduring its strong odor temporarily. However, this minor inconvenience is a fair trade-off for achieving a flawless glass.
Cleaning glass in direct sunlight: Cleaning glass surfaces in direct sunlight can cause the cleaning solution to dry quickly, leaving behind streaks. It’s best to clean glass on a cloudy day or when the surface is not exposed to direct sunlight.
Work in small circular motions: Using a microfiber cloth, work in small circular motions to clean the glass. This technique helps to prevent streaks and ensures that the cleaner is evenly distributed. Start from the top and work your way down, focusing on one small section at a time.
4. Use a good old newspaper
Due to the rise of technology and social media, printing companies have faced challenges in keeping up with the changing times. There have been concerns that they may eventually become obsolete. However, this does not apply to household use. Despite the various options available, newspapers are still considered the most effective material for cleaning glass.
Garments are prone to getting soiled quickly and can easily leave smudges on glass surfaces. Tissues, on the other hand, are not any better as they leave streaks of lint on the surface. Moreover, they are wasteful due to their lack of durability and unsustainable manufacturing process.
If you are unable to afford a squeegee or microfibre cloth, newspapers can serve as a reliable alternative. Not only are they cost-effective, but they are also environmentally friendly as they are typically made from recycled paper.
Streak-free glass cleaner: Look for a glass cleaner that is specifically formulated to be streak-free. This will ensure that your glass surfaces are left sparkling clean without any residue.
Pay attention to corners and edges: Corners and edges tend to accumulate more dirt and grime. Make sure to give extra attention to these areas while cleaning. Use a gentle touch and take your time to ensure that all dirt and streaks are removed.
5. Hire a house cleaning company
Maintaining the pristine condition of glass is a daunting task due to the challenge of finding enough time to consistently dedicate to it. However, if your work or other obligations become too demanding, there is no need to stress about its upkeep as professional house cleaning services are available to take care of it for you.
Cleanrific, a cleaning company, provides budget-friendly services for cleaning windows that will maintain the quality of your glass windows for an extended period. Additionally, if you require a full house cleaning, they have you covered.
Just like your valuable household furniture and belongings, your home glass deserves proper care and attention. By following these tips, you can ensure spotless glass every time. However, it is important to remember that glass maintenance is an ongoing task. Therefore, try your best to keep dirt and dust on glass at a manageable level.
Microfiber cloth: A microfiber cloth is an essential tool for cleaning glass. Its fine fibers are designed to attract and trap dirt, dust, and grime, making it ideal for achieving streak-free results.
Wipe away excess cleaner: After cleaning the glass surface, use a lint-free cloth to wipe away any excess cleaner. This will help to prevent streaks and ensure a crystal clear finish.
Initially, there is a tickling sensation, but soon it turns into an itch. Before you know it, your legs are covered in red marks and insects are buzzing, crawling, and indulging in your valuable household possessions. In this piece, we will discuss methods for avoiding pests.
Pests are labeled as such for a good reason, as they bring nothing but havoc and inconvenience into our lives. Whether it be the ruined books from termite infestations or our barren plants, the evidence of their destructive nature is undeniable.
The impact of invasive species or pests is evident in the Australian economy as they now account for 1.26% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) or approximately $24.5 billion every year (https://theconversation.com/pest-plants-and-animals-cost-australia-around-25-billion-a-year-and-it-will-get-worse-164969). The most costly aspect of these expenditures is pest management, which involves the use of barriers, traps, and the acquisition of hazardous pesticides.
In addition to the expense, pest control can pose a risk to family members. Certain pesticides and insecticides contain powerful chemicals that can be hazardous. As a result, utilizing natural methods is a more affordable and secure approach to managing pests.
It is advisable to supplement natural remedies with the consistent disposal of excessive junk, achieved by engaging a Sydney rubbish removal service. This approach will greatly reduce the risk of attracting pests and rodents.
Are you tired of dealing with pesky pests invading your home? If so, it’s time to consider natural home remedies to ward off these unwanted visitors. In this article, we will explore effective and safe ways to prevent pests from coming into your home, without relying on harmful chemicals or expensive professional services.
Our brand understands the importance of a clean and pest-free living space, which is why we prioritize natural and eco-friendly solutions. We believe in the power of nature to provide effective pest control alternatives, and we are committed to helping you create a healthy and inviting environment for you and your family.
Continue reading to discover additional information on natural remedies that can be employed to deter pests from entering your household.
How To Prevent Pests From Coming Into Your Home?
1. Vinegar
It is widely recognized that vinegar is often used as a regular seasoning for food. However, its uses go beyond just being a condiment. According to research, vinegar’s strong odor and acidic properties (with a pH level of 2.5) are effective in driving away insects such as fruit flies and ants.
In particular, the use of vinegar can overpower and eliminate the scent trails left behind by ants, making it challenging for the rest of the ant colony to locate a source of food. Additionally, vinegar can function as a lure and trap for fruit flies.
To effectively combat ants in your home, simply mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle and use it to spray areas where ants are commonly found. Keep in mind that the protection provided by vinegar is temporary, therefore it is necessary to repeat the application periodically.
2. Spent Coffee Grounds
Coffee can also be utilized as a household item for managing pests due to the presence of substances such as caffeine and diterpenes that are unappealing to pests. A variety of insects, including beetles, fruit flies, ants, and mosquitoes, can be deterred by coffee.
In order to utilize it as a repellent, it is important to retain your used coffee grounds and scatter them in a bowl or on surfaces in your home that are susceptible to pest infestation.
3. Essential Oils
Essential oils are frequently purchased for their relaxing properties. However, while they may have a pleasant scent for us, certain insects find their aroma to be intolerable. In particular, peppermint, lavender, and eucalyptus essential oils have been found to effectively repel spiders, flies, and dust mites.
As the majority of essential oils are typically purchased in concentrated forms, it is possible to choose to dilute them with water prior to utilizing or spraying them onto areas that are infested with pests, such as beds, sofas, and carpets.
Besides being used for prevention, essential oils have proven to be successful in treating bites from pests, particularly mites.
4. Cucumber
Cucumbers, specifically their skins, possess a bitterness that instinctively deters various insects including ants, silverfish, mites, and wasps. Utilizing this innate repellent property, one can strategically place cucumber slices on windowsills, dining tables, under the bed, or any area plagued by pests.
However, it is important to keep in mind that cucumbers, like any other fruit, will eventually decompose and can create additional issues if they are not replaced on a regular basis.
5. Epsom Salt
Naturally occurring in limestone caves and mines, hydrated magnesium sulfate crystals, commonly known as Epsom salt, can also be produced by boiling down mineral waters.
Due to its natural origin, individuals commonly utilize Epsom salt as a cost-effective remedy for minor bodily discomfort. However, as further research is conducted on this substance, it has been identified as a potential compound for controlling pests.
One way to utilize Epsom salt as a pesticide is to put it in a bowl that is strategically placed or sprinkle it in small quantities around areas of the house where pests are commonly found, such as doors, windows, carpets, and mats. Another option is to combine the Epsom salt with rosemary leaves to enhance its effectiveness against fleas.
Epsom salt has the ability to enhance plant growth. In addition to deterring pests such as snails and bugs, it also aids in the absorption of nutrients by plants.
Final Thoughts
As the temperature rises, it is important to improve your pest control methods. To prepare for the ongoing fight against pests, try out any of the natural remedies listed above. These will not only protect your belongings and family, but also avoid the use of harmful pesticides.
By implementing natural home remedies and adopting preventive measures, you can effectively prevent pests from invading your home. Remember, the key is to create an environment that is unattractive and inhospitable to pests, without relying on harmful chemicals.
Regularly assess your home for any signs of pests and take immediate action if necessary. Stay consistent with your pest control efforts and make adjustments as needed. With natural home remedies and a proactive approach, you can maintain a pest-free home and enjoy a peaceful and healthy living space for you and your family.
