Cleaning Sinks and Kitchen Surfaces

Sinks and kitchen surfaces can sparkle by using good old vinegar. Here's how:

Sink Clogs

A mixture of equal parts vinegar, salt, and baking soda may help open up a slow-draining sink. Pour the solution down drain; let it sit for 1 hour, then pour boiling or very hot tap water down the drain.

Clear a minor sink clog with a mixture of 1/2 cup baking soda and 1/2 cup vinegar. Let it stand for 3 hours, then flush with hot water.

Sink Odors

The rubber seal on garbage disposals can retain odors. To deodorize it, remove the seal and let it soak in vinegar for 1 hour.

Sink Stains

Tackle mineral deposits around your sink's faucets by squirting them with undiluted vinegar. Let the vinegar sit 15 minutes or longer, then scrub away deposits with an old toothbrush.

Clean minor stains in a white porcelain sink with a sprinkling of baking soda and a sponge dampened with vinegar. Stains are best tackled immediately.          

For tough or aged stains in a white porcelain sink, cover stained areas with paper towels saturated in household bleach (wear rubber gloves and make sure room is well ventilated). Leave paper towels for 1/2 hour or until they dry out. Remove towels and rinse area thoroughly. Follow this treatment by cleaning sink with pure vinegar to remove bleach smell.

Countertops

Wipe your kitchen countertops with undiluted vinegar once a day to shine them and keep your kitchen smelling fresh.

For everyday cleaning of tile and grout, rub with a little apple cider vinegar on a sponge. This gives off a clean scent and will help cut any greasy buildup.

Wood

A wooden breadbox tends to become sticky with fingerprints and food. Freshen it up by wiping surface with vinegar on a sponge or cloth. Do this periodically to prevent grime buildup. For heavy buildup, try repeated wipes with a sponge dampened with vinegar and sprinkled with salt.

Now you know that vinegar can be a key weapon in the never-ending battle of keeping your kitchen clean.

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