Clean Your Kitchen Like a Pro – Without Breaking the Bank!
The kitchen holds a special place and is often referred to as the heart of the home because that is where we prepare meals and spend time together. Yet, with its constant use, things can get a little bit messy. So, no matter if you are passionate about cooking or not, you should always keep your kitchen clean. This way, you will create a safe and hygienic environment. The good news is that you don’t need to break the bank to keep your kitchen sparkling. I am here to help you discover the cheapest but also the most effective kitchen supplies. Trust me, they’ll not disappoint you.
Aren’t you tired of hearing of expensive products? We are often bombarded with aggressive advertising and many people tend to believe that the best cleaning supplies are the prices ones, which is completely false. So, if you are tired of spending too much money on cleaning products that don’t deliver results, I am here to show you that a clean kitchen isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s also about safety. And trust me, you don’t have to break the bank to achieve it.
10 Must-Have Affordable Kitchen Supplies
1. A high-quality sponge
A good sponge is one of the most underrated tools in any kitchen. Even though it might seem a simple item, it is one of the most important tools. A good sponge can make a big difference in your cleaning routine: it lasts longer and absorbs water, easily removing grease and food residue.
I suggest you look for a dual-sided sponge, with a soft side and a scrubbing side, so it will be easier for you to deal with the mess. By far, one of the biggest advantages of investing in a high-quality sponge is that it can be used for multiple tasks beyond just washing dishes. You can wipe down countertops, clean the sink, and scrub the microwave, all with the same sponge. However, don’t forget about the importance of replacing your kitchen sponge regularly. I would say it’s better not to use the same sponge for more than 3 weeks because it can easily develop bacteria.
If you want to extend its life, a useful trick is to rinse it after each use and let it dry completely. In case you feel the need to also sanitize it, a microwave is a great solution. Just microwave the sponge for about 30 seconds.
2. A sponge holder
Even though a sponge holder doesn’t seem like a necessity, trust me, it’s a game-changer. It will be easier for you to dry your sponge and keep it clean after each use. If you forget your sponge in a puddle of water, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to unpleasant odors. So, opt for a simple holder that will help you keep your sponge clean and ready for use.
You will be surprised to find that there are plenty of times of sponge holders. Some models are extremely sophisticated, having a built-in drainage system, while others are simple. I recommend you do your research and choose the right sponge holder considering your kitchen aesthetic and sink space.
Another great advantage of having a sponge holder is that you can significantly reduce clutter and keep things more organized. An organized kitchen will immediately boost your mood and productivity, while a messy one will make you stay out of the cooking zone.
3. Bottle and Straw Brushes
Probably one of the most annoying things to do in the kitchen is washing bottles, travel mugs, or reusable straws. It can be an extremely frustrating task, especially if you don’t have the tools you need. These sociality brushes are designed to reach deep into tight spaces, ensuring that no residue is left behind.
Using these brushes is extremely easy. All you need to do is just add a drop of dish soap and scrub the inside of your bottles or straws before rinsing. Rinse the bottles well after each use and hang them to dry. Some brush sets even come with storage holders, so investing in these simple tools not only keeps your kitchenware cleaner but also helps extend the lifespan of your reusable drinkware.
4. Microfiber cloths
Microfiber clothes are an essential tool that every kitchen should have. Microfiber cloths are designed to trap dust and dirt, and their ultra-fine fibers can absorb several times their weight in water making them perfect for wiping down countertops or even polishing stainless steel appliances.
One of the biggest advantages of these cleaning supplies is their reusability. Instead of regularly buying paper towels, you can simply opt for buying microfiber cloths that can be washed in the machine and used again and again. They will not only save you money, but they will also help you reduce waste, being a great eco-friendly cleaning option.
5. Lemon
No one should ever underestimate the power of lemons. They are one of the most natural and affordable cleaning products. Their high acidity is what makes them an excellent tool in every kitchen. They have the power to remove stains, cut grease, and neutralize odors. Place a slice of lemon in your refrigerator and you’ll never have to deal with bad odors again.
Probably one of the easiest ways to use lemons for cleaning is to rub half a lemon directly on cutting boards to remove stains and kill bacteria. My wife regularly mixes backing soda with lemon juice to create a powerful cleaning paste for the sink. Trust me, it works magically.
6. Wipes
Wipes are another must-have item in any kitchen. They are lifesavers for quick cleanups. They kill germs, remove grease, and leave surfaces looking spotless.
They are incredibly convenient and the best part about them is their practicability. They are ready to use, making them perfect for cleaning up after preparing a waw of meat or wiping down frequently touched areas like fridge handles or light switches.
When you look for wipes, you should always take into consideration the brands that offer antibacterial properties. Trust me, they work better. And the advantages don’t stop here! While they are disposable, some brands now offer biodegradable options for those looking to be more eco-friendly.
7. Cooking Oil Solidifier
Oh, is there anyone who doesn’t hate the leftover cooking oil? Poring it up in the drain is dangerous as it can clog pipes while tossing it in the trash as a liquid can create a huge mess. So, here comes the solution. I recently discovered the cooking oil solidifier.
It is an incredibly affordable tool and turns hot oil into a solid, helping you keep your kitchen clean and mess-free. How does it sound? Have you tried it before?
8. Gloves
The reusable gloves made of rubber or latex are perfect for daily kitchen cleaning. They offer a comfortable fit and allow you to properly scrub all the areas of your kitchen without hurting your fingers and nails. My favorites are the ones that have a textured grip to help hold slippery dishes or sponges more securely.
You can also use disposable gloves are throw them away when you finish your job. These are a great option for when you don’t want to transfer germs between tasks. They are a hygienic option for the not-so-pleasant areas you need to clean.
9. Stainless Steel Cleaner
Me and my wife could not live without a good stainless steel cleaner. Trust us, it’s a lifesaver, especially when it comes to kitchen cleaning. The solution is perfect for most of the surfaces found in our kitchen and it helps us to rapidly offer the space a refresh when needed. One of the best things about it is that it will help you get rid of fingerprints and dust immediately, leaving a layer.
Unlike regular all-purpose cleaners, stainless steel cleaners are specially formulated to enhance the metal’s natural finish.
10. Backing Soda
Backing soda is probably one of the most affordable cleaning supplies you can have in your kitchen. This magical white powder works perfectly as a gentle abrasive, deodorizer, and even stain remover. So, there’s no need for me to tell you that backing powder is an essential ingredient in most DIY cleaning solutions.
We use it in our kitchen to degrease and scrub surfaces. It’s a great solution for kitchen problems because the powder is also effective in eliminating odors. You can just place an open box in your fridge or trash can to absorb all the bad smells. You’ll be surprised by the results.
Are you interested in learning more financial tips? You should also read: 8 Common Budgeting Mistakes That Wreck Retirement Dreams
