Household cleaning hacks for refrigerators and washing machines

Common household appliances like refrigerators and washing machines can be maintained using simple, cost-effective ingredients found in the kitchen.

For refrigerators, baking soda serves as an effective cleaner and deodorizer. To avoid damaging surfaces, especially those with fingerprint-resistant coatings, it should be used as a paste mixed with warm water rather than in its dry, abrasive form. Distilled white vinegar, a sponge, and microfiber towels are recommended to complete the cleaning process.

To clean a washing machine, a method involving a halved lemon coated in toothpaste can be used. The citric acid in the lemon acts as a natural degreaser to remove limescale and soap residue while neutralizing odors. The abrasive properties of toothpaste help remove buildup from the rubber seals and drum walls. Running a short cycle with these ingredients can disinfect the machine and restore its shine.