Cleaning Tips for Busy Homes

Sprinkle baking soda over the mattress, let it sit an hour, then vacuum it up to lift odors.

Mix equal parts vinegar and olive oil to buff out water rings and scratches.

A quick squeegee pass after each shower prevents soap-scum buildup.

Pour baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by hot water, to clear clogs naturally.

Freeze vinegar in an ice cube tray and run the cubes through the disposal to clean and deodorize it.

A squeegee pulls pet hair off carpets and upholstery quickly.

Fill halfway with warm water and a drop of dish soap, blend briefly, then rinse.

A vinegar-dampened cloth removes streaks and restores shine.

A dab of mayonnaise left on for a few minutes loosens sticker residue for easy wiping.

A coaster under metal cans keeps rust rings off surfaces.

A box of baking soda inside absorbs lingering odors.

Sprinkle cornstarch, let sit 30 minutes, then vacuum to freshen and deodorize.

Slip a pillowcase over each blade and wipe to trap the dust instead of scattering it.

A cup of vinegar on the top rack during a cycle clears odors and buildup.

Mix water, vodka, and essential oils in a spray bottle for a simple, natural freshener.

Microwave lemon slices in a bowl of water for 3-5 minutes -- the steam loosens grime and leaves a fresh scent.

Equal parts water and white vinegar make an effective, eco-friendly all-purpose spray.

A sprinkle of baking soda inside shoes absorbs odor overnight.

A 1:1 vinegar-and-water mix leaves glass streak-free.

Boil water with foil and baking soda, then drop in tarnished silverware for a few seconds to restore shine.

Cornstarch sprinkled on a grease stain for an hour, then brushed off, makes washing easier.

Two parts olive oil to one part lemon juice makes a natural, streak-free polish.

A can of cola poured in and left for an hour loosens grime before scrubbing and flushing.

Baking soda scrubbed in and rinsed leaves a sink shining.

A coffee filter wipes screens and electronics lint-free.

A paste of vegetable oil and baking soda cuts through greasy cabinet buildup.

Equal parts vinegar and water, sprayed and blotted, lifts fresh carpet stains.

A vinegar-filled bag secured over the shower head overnight dissolves mineral buildup.

Water with a few drops of essential oil in a spray bottle freshens fabric between washes.

A damp rubber glove, rubbed over furniture, pulls pet hair off easily.

With a few pantry staples and a handful of quick tricks, keeping a busy home clean doesn't have to take all weekend.