Home maintenance: Expert tips for cleaning and organization

Various household experts and guides offer practical advice for improving home maintenance and hygiene.

Cleaning strategies suggest that certain areas, such as the insides of closed cabinets and drawers, do not require frequent cleaning unless spills or odors occur. For kitchen maintenance, experts recommend addressing odors in sinks by cleaning the siphon and preventing grease buildup, as well as using ventilation and covers to minimize airborne grease particles. To remove burnt-on food from oven trays, a paste of baking soda, hot water, and neutral detergent is suggested to soften residue before scrubbing.

Organization and decor tips include repurposing glass jars into functional organizers and choosing window treatments for kitchens, such as blinds or Roman shades, which are easier to clean than traditional curtains. For window cleaning, a mixture of water and vinegar is highlighted as an effective, cost-free solution. Additionally, proper disposal of used cooking oil is emphasized to prevent plumbing clogs, suggesting that oil should be cooled and placed in plastic bottles for collection rather than being poured down the drain.