10 Kitchen Cleaning Hacks Your Grandma Swore By

Back when cleaning supplies didn’t come with twenty different fragrances and a hundred options, folks relied on simple, tried-and-true methods to keep their homes sparkling. And let’s be honest, some of Grandma’s hacks just work better than anything you can buy at the store. They’re simple, don’t cost a fortune, and you probably already have most of the ingredients sitting in your kitchen right now.

Soak Your Oven Racks in the Tub

Cleaning oven racks doesn’t have to involve endless scrubbing or scratched-up surfaces. Fill your bathtub with warm water and a scoop of powdered laundry detergent. Let the racks soak for at least four hours—overnight if you’ve got time. Once they’ve had a good soak, rinse them off, and they’re back to looking like new.

This is one of those hacks that feels like a win every time. It’s easy, low effort, and keeps the greasy mess out of your kitchen sink.

Stop Wasting Money on Paper Towels

Instead of going through rolls of paper towels like they’re going out of style, grab a set of thin reusable towels. They’re great for cleaning up spills, wiping counters, or drying dishes, and when they’re dirty, you just toss them in the wash.

It’s cheaper in the long run, and you’ll always have a backup when a mess happens. Plus, it’s a simple way to cut down on waste without overthinking it.

Get Rid of Kitchen Odors with Vinegar

If you’ve got a spot in your kitchen that seems to be the source of mystery smells—like under the sink or near the trash—a small bowl of vinegar might be the fix you need. Just pour some into a bowl and leave it in the problem area for a couple of days. It works by absorbing odors instead of masking them, leaving the space much fresher.

This hack is especially helpful for those tough-to-clean areas you don’t check often. It’s simple, cheap, and way easier than scrubbing every inch of the kitchen.

Brighten Whites with Lemon Juice

Lemons aren’t just for lemonade—they’re a lifesaver for restoring dingy whites. Mix the juice from three lemons with a liter of cold water and soak your grayish white shirts or linens. Let them sit for a bit, rinse them out, and toss them in the wash as usual.

The natural acidity in the lemon juice helps lift stains and dullness, leaving your whites looking noticeably brighter. It’s a gentle option that’s way kinder to fabric than harsh bleach.

Use Coffee Grounds for Smelly Hands

After prepping foods like garlic, onions, or fish, your hands can hold onto those strong smells no matter how much soap you use. Scrubbing your hands with leftover coffee grounds can take care of that. The coarse texture works to exfoliate your skin, while the grounds neutralize the odors.

This is a great way to upcycle used coffee grounds instead of tossing them. Plus, it’s quick, natural, and leaves your hands feeling soft afterward.

Restore Baking Sheets with Baking Soda and Peroxide

Your old baking sheets don’t have to stay stained and grimy. Sprinkle baking soda over the surface, spray it with hydrogen peroxide, and then top it with another layer of baking soda. Let it sit for a few hours (or overnight for tough stains), then wipe it clean with a sponge or cloth.

This combo works like magic, cutting through stubborn grease and baked-on residue without a ton of elbow grease. It’s a simple way to breathe new life into your kitchen essentials.

Shine Up Tarnished Metal with Aluminum Foil and Salt

Reviving your old silverware or copper pots doesn’t require fancy cleaners. Grab some aluminum foil, salt, and boiling water instead. Line a basin with the foil, sprinkle in a couple of teaspoons of salt, and pour in the hot water. Submerge the metal pieces for a few minutes, letting the solution do the work. Afterward, rinse with dish soap and warm water, then dry with a soft cloth.

This hack works like a charm for bringing back that shiny finish without scrubbing endlessly. Plus, it’s an easy, budget-friendly way to make your kitchenware look brand-new again.

How to Clean Windows with a Cut Onion

If your windows have taken a beating from weather or dirt, half an onion can be your secret weapon. Slice it open and use the cut side to scrub off grime before cleaning with your usual glass cleaner or an ammonia-water mix. The onion’s natural juices help break down stubborn buildup.

It might sound odd, but it works. Once you rinse and wipe them dry, those windows will sparkle like the day they were installed—and no, they won’t smell like onions.

Use Salt to Save a Wine-Stained Tablecloth

Wine spills happen, but you don’t have to say goodbye to your favorite tablecloth. As soon as possible, sprinkle coarse salt generously over the stain and gently rub it in. The salt helps pull the wine out of the fabric before it sets, so you have time to toss it in the wash.

It’s a lifesaver during dinner parties when accidents are bound to happen. Just make sure to act fast—waiting too long might make this trick less effective.

Polish Wood Floors with Beeswax and an Old Sweater

Beeswax isn’t just for lip balm—it’s perfect for bringing dull wood floors back to life. Rub a small amount of beeswax into the floor using an old wool sweater. The natural fibers are soft but effective at spreading the wax evenly while lifting dirt and grime.

This method not only adds a rich shine but also protects your wood floors from wear and tear. It’s a great way to upcycle an old sweater and keep your floors looking their best!