Dusters for Blinds
Blinds can be a pain to clean, so try this hack: Secure microfiber cloths on a pair of tongs using rubber bands. Then use the tongs to grip and clean each blind individually.
Couch Cleaner
Forget fussy (and expensive) couch-cleaning solutions. Instead, just grab some rubbing alcohol, a spray bottle, a sponge and a bristle brush. Use the spray bottle to soak the entire couch with rubbing alcohol, then rub it down with the sponge, focusing on any stains. Once the couch is dry, fluff it back to its usual state by using circular motions with the bristle brush.
Odor-Blocking Balls
Make your own odor-blocking balls by filling a coffee filter with baking soda and your favorite essential oil. Tie it up with a rubber band or hair binder, and toss it in a drawer, your kid's backpack or whatever else could use a fresh scent.
Dishwasher Duty
Using your dishwasher to clean only the dishes? How basic. Put the machine to even greater use by using it to clean hairbrushes, plastic toys and anything else that could use a good rinse.
MORE: 30 Awesome Life Hacks
Iron Degunker
Even the dirtiest iron is easy to clean. Just get a Magic Eraser damp and rub at the gunk until it comes off.
Keyboard Cleaner
Clean your computer keyboard or other electronics by putting an empty ketchup bottle lid on the end of a wet/dry vacuum. It'll easily suck up any dust.
Makeup Remover
No need for an expensive trip to the cosmetics aisle— just use baby oil to get makeup off your face.
Mattress Refresher
Give your mattress a quick tuneup by sprinkling it with baking soda and several drops of your favorite essential oil. Let it sit for an hour or so, then vacuum it up.
Natural Deodorizers
Put charcoal briquettes or apple slices in a bowl and use them to get icky odors out of any room. In the kitchen, boil water and white vinegar to neutralize pungent meal prep.
Stove Ring Refresh
Stove rings can be a pain to wash, so try this trick: Put two rings in a 2-gallon Ziploc bag, and fill the bottom with half a cup of plain ammonia. The rings get cleaned by the fumes, so they don't need to be submerged in the ammonia. A day later (or whenever you are ready to wipe them down), take out the rings and scrub them down. Most of the gunk will come off without much problem.
Pool Purifier
Toss a few tennis balls in your backyard pool to clean it out. Skin and sunblock oils in the pool will cling to it, leaving your pool water much more clear.
Ring Refresh
Yep, your rings need to be cleaned, too. Soak them in hydrogen peroxide. You might be surprised (and grossed out) by what floats to the top.
Sofa Stain Remover
Get spots off your sofa by using a damp cloth to rub a dollop of shaving cream into the affected area. After 30 minutes (or overnight for more severe stains), blot it out with another damp towel.
Animal Hair Removal
Animal hair on the couch or any other upholstery can be a pain, but so is trying to vacuum it up. For an easier and more effective solution, use a squeegee.
Swiffer Sock
Swiffers are great for cleaning, but the pads can get pricey. Avoid the cost by simply slipping a fuzzy sock over the head. When you're done, just toss the sock in your washing machine and reuse when it's time to clean again.
Toilet Brush
Easy trick: Dry your toilet brush before putting it away. This will keep bacteria from spreading or mildew from forming.
Smell-Fresh Vacuum
Avoid that notorious "vacuum smell" by putting a few drops of essential oil in the filter before you start.
Water Stain Remover
The solution to pesky water stains on hardwood furniture just happens to be sitting in your bathroom. Use non-gel toothpaste to gently scrub out the stain. Don't rub for too long, or you could discolor the wood.
