25 Genius Cleaning Hacks for Things You Didn t Know Could Get Clean
Let’s be honest there are just some things no one ever showed you how to clean.
Like that knife block quietly collecting a colony of dust bunnies. Or the toaster that still holds onto stubborn crumbs no matter how hard you shake it upside down.
Sound familiar? Don’t worry we’ve got hacks for that.
With the help of simple tools like toothpicks, pipe cleaners, and even a trusty safety pin, you’ll finally be able to tackle those oddly tricky spots. These 25+ clever cleaning tricks will rescue the forgotten, the neglected, and the downright grimy items you probably assumed would never sparkle again.
Stove top grates
Scrubbing away caked-on grease? Don’t bother dunking your stovetop grates in a bubbly sink it won’t cut it. What they really need is an overnight session in a powerful ammonia bath.
But here’s the surprising part: it’s not the liquid that does the heavy lifting it’s the fumes. Yep, those strong-smelling vapors are the real grease-fighting heroes. That’s why proper containment is key and a trusty zip-top plastic bag becomes your best ally.
Here’s what to do: Slip each grate into a sealable bag, pour in just a small amount of ammonia (you don’t need much), and be sure to leave a little air inside so the fumes can do their magic. Seal it tight, stash it in a safe spot preferably outdoors or in a well-ventilated area and let it sit overnight.
By morning, the grease will have loosened dramatically, and you’ll be able to wipe the grime away with barely any effort.
Just remember: safety first. Wear gloves, avoid inhaling the fumes, and open the bag in a ventilated space. For a full walkthrough and more tips on handling ammonia safely, check out the detailed guide on our blog.
Dishwasher
It might sound odd to clean an appliance that cleans for a living, but yes even your dishwasher needs a deep clean now and then. Over time, sneaky food particles and residue can build up in hidden corners, especially around the filter and at the bottom.
That’s where small but mighty tools like an old toothbrush or a toothpick come in handy. They can reach those tight spots and clear out the gunk that’s quietly been collecting with every cycle.
Want to give your dishwasher a proper refresh? Head over to this blog for a step-by-step guide on how to clean it thoroughly from the spray arms to the drain filter and everything in between.
Foggy headlights on your car
No matter how often you roll through the car wash, those cloudy, fogged-up headlights just won’t clear up. But don’t worry there’s a surprisingly simple solution hiding in your bathroom cabinet.
Grab some plain white toothpaste (skip the gel kind), squeeze a bit onto a wad of paper towels, and rub it firmly onto the dry headlight in small circles. Let it sit for a minute or two, then wipe it clean with a damp cloth.
The result? Clearer, brighter headlights without a pricey detailing bill. Want the full breakdown and a few bonus tips? Check out the complete how-to on this blog.