Budget-Friendly Cleaning Tips & Hacks

Keeping your home clean doesn’t have to be expensive. By swapping out commercial cleaning products for natural, affordable alternatives, you can save money while maintaining a fresh and hygienic living space. Many everyday household ingredients, such as vinegar, baking soda, lemon, and salt, can be just as effective as store-bought cleaners—without the harsh chemicals that may harm the environment, pets, or children.

DIY Natural Cleaning Solutions

  • Vinegar & Water Solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water for an all-purpose cleaner that works on countertops, taps, fridges, and windows. Avoid using malt vinegar—only white vinegar is suitable.
  • Lemon Juice: A natural degreaser, lemon juice mixed with water can be used to wipe down greasy surfaces. However, it’s not a substitute for bleach when it comes to disinfecting.
  • Baking Soda & Vinegar: This foamy combination helps to unclog sink drains and break down tough grease and dirt.
  • Salt: An effective scrubbing agent, salt can restore shine to sinks, remove stubborn stains, and even tackle rust on metal surfaces.

 Repurpose Household Items for Cleaning

Instead of throwing away old household items, repurpose them for cleaning tasks:

  • Newspapers work well for streak-free window cleaning—just spray with a vinegar-water solution and wipe dry.
  • Old cotton t-shirts make great reusable cleaning cloths for dusting and wiping surfaces.
  • Used toothbrushes are ideal for scrubbing hard-to-reach areas, such as grout, taps, and small crevices.

Bathroom Cleaning Hacks

The bathroom requires regular cleaning to maintain hygiene and prevent grime buildup. Here are some simple tips to keep it fresh:

  • Keep cleaning tools clean: Dirty cloths and sponges won’t absorb grime properly—regularly wash or replace them.
  • Use DIY cleaning solutions: Vinegar removes mineral buildup on showerheads, while a baking soda and vinegar mix can tackle tile stains and sink grime.
  • Get a shower squeegee: Running a squeegee over shower doors and tiles after each use prevents water stains and limescale buildup.
  • Wipe up excess water: Drying up bathroom floors and surfaces prevents slips, dirt buildup, and mould growth.

Kitchen Cleaning Tips

Kitchens often get messy due to cooking, spills, and grease buildup. Alongside vinegar, baking soda, and salt, here are some additional cleaning hacks:

  • Lemon for microwave cleaning: Heat a bowl of water with lemon slices in the microwave to loosen food splatters and odours.
  • Fridge refresh: A vinegar and water solution helps to remove dirt and neutralise odours inside your fridge. Organising your shelves can also help prevent spills.
  • DIY drain cleaner: Pour baking soda and vinegar down the sink, followed by hot water, to keep drains clog-free and odourless.

Creating a Cleaning Routine

Maintaining a regular cleaning schedule prevents dirt from accumulating and makes household tasks more manageable. Here’s a simple cleaning routine to follow:

  • Daily: Tidy up and wipe surfaces to prevent clutter and mess.
  • Weekly: Vacuum, mop, and do a deeper clean of kitchen and bathroom surfaces.
  • Monthly: Clean the fridge, descale appliances, and deep-clean high-use areas.
  • Seasonally: Wash windows, clean carpets, and freshen up curtains.

By following these simple and cost-effective cleaning strategies, you can keep your home fresh, hygienic, and organised -without overspending on expensive products.