While high-tech gadgets and specialised cleaning products have made many housekeeping tasks easier, there’s still a lot we can learn from how grandma used to do things. Those tried-and-trusted tips that have been passed down through the generations have stood the test of time, proving that sometimes simplicity and ingenuity are all you need to keep your home spotless.

By relying on common household items like vinegar, baking soda, lemons, and salt, you can keep your home clean without the need for harsh chemicals or expensive products. Embrace these time-tested methods and discover the satisfaction of cleaning the old-fashioned way.

Vinegar and baking soda: Vinegar and baking soda are a dynamic duo in the world of cleaning. Their versatility and effectiveness make them household staples. To unclog drains, pour half a cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of vinegar down the drain. Let it sit for 15 minutes and then flush with hot water. The fizzing reaction helps break down clogs and deodorises drains.

Vinegar is also an excellent all-purpose cleaner. Mix one-part of white vinegar with two parts of water in a spray bottle, and you’ll have an inexpensive, all-purpose sanitising solution free of chemicals that can clean kitchens, bathrooms, windows, and anything in between. The acidic nature of vinegar cuts through grime, leaving a streak-free shine. For a fresh scent, add a few drops of your preferred essential oil or fresh lemon juice.

Lemon’s natural power: Lemons are more than just a refreshing fruit; they are also potent cleaning agents. The citric acid in lemons effectively cuts through grease and grime. To freshen up your rubbish disposal, throw in any leftover lemon halves or peels and you’ll have a fresh-smelling waste area. For a natural alternative to bleach, mix lemon juice with baking soda to create a paste. This can be used to scrub cutting boards, counters, and even stubborn stains on clothing.

Newspaper for sparkling windows: Before microfibre cloths and fancy window cleaners, people relied on newspapers for a streak-free shine. The ink in newspapers acts as a gentle abrasive that polishes glass without leaving lint. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then simply spray your window with the solution and wipe it down with a crumpled piece of newspaper for sparkling results.

Mayonnaise for water marks: Mayonnaise is not just for adding taste to your food; it’s also a fantastic cleaning agent. To remove annoying water stains from wood furniture, just add a spoonful of mayonnaise to a rag and scrub the affected surface until the mark is gone. For extra stubborn water or heat marks, let the mayonnaise sit for an hour or two before scrubbing.

Club soda for carpet stains: Club soda is a surprisingly effective carpet cleaner. If you spill something on your carpet, blot the area with a cloth and then pour a small amount of club soda over the stain. The carbonation helps to lift the stain to the surface, making it easier to blot away. Repeat until the stain is gone and then rinse with water and blot dry.

Olive oil for furniture: Olive oil is not just for cooking; it also makes a great furniture polish. Mix two parts of olive oil with one part of lemon juice or vinegar and apply the mixture to wooden furniture with a soft cloth. This mixture not only cleans but also conditions the wood, bringing out its natural shine and protecting it from drying out.

Potatoes for rust removal: Potatoes are excellent for removing rust from metal objects. Cut a potato in half and dip the cut side in baking soda or salt and then rub it on the rusted area. The oxalic acid in potatoes reacts with the rust, making it easier to scrub away.

Cornstarch for windows and furniture: Cornstarch is a gentle abrasive that can be used for cleaning windows and polishing furniture. Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a pint of water to create a window-cleaning solution. For furniture, sprinkle cornstarch onto a soft cloth and use it to buff out smudges and fingerprints.

* A version of this article appears in print in the 1 August, 2024 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly