A home expert on TikTok shared his tips for easily cleaning a microwave in a popular video on the platform.
Ken Long, a home expert from Ontario , Canada , explained in a viral video that instead of scrubbing and scrubbing the inside of your microwave, there is a much easier method.
Since January 23, the video has received more than 270,000 views on Long's account , which has more than 655,000 followers.
That's what he recommended.
"An easy way"
Long advised his viewers to put a glass of water in a glass measuring cup and then add two or three drops of dish soap .
"Now put it in the microwave on high for three minutes," Long said, adding, "When it's done, leave the door closed and let it sit for five minutes.
"This creates steam in the microwave and the soap helps dissolve grease and food particles , making cleanup extremely easy."
Vinegar and Water: Fill a microwave-safe bowl with one cup of water and two tablespoons of white vinegar. Heat over high heat for five minutes, then let it sit for a few minutes before wiping the inside with a sponge or cloth.
Lemon and water: Halve a lemon , place it in a bowl of water and microwave it for five minutes. The steam loosens dirt, making cleaning easier, while the lemon leaves a fresh scent.
Baking soda paste: Mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste. Apply it to stubborn stains, let it sit for a few minutes, then rub and wipe off.
The importance of a clean microwave
Keeping your microwave clean is critical to both the cleanliness and hygiene as well as the longevity of the appliance.
Food splatters and grease buildup can be a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, which can contaminate your meals and posepotential health risks .
A dirty microwave can also give off unpleasant odors and affect the taste of the food.
Accumulated dirt can also cause the microwave to be less efficient, resulting in uneven heating and even damage to the internal components. Regular cleaning prevents these problems.
DEAR HÉLOISE: I often read your column in our local newspaper and find interesting information there. A friend who works at a restaurant used coffee filters to dry tables before each customer. Filters absorb moisture and leave no streaks for a cleaner table. He also used them on the windows of his vehicles. So try this every time you need to dry a surface. In addition, the filters are extremely cost-effective. I hope this is helpful!
Plastic is omnipresent in our daily lives: in the fibers of our clothing, on the shelves of our bathroom and in many containers and utensils in the kitchen.
As practical as this material is, it is not the safest material to use in making our kitchen items, as wear and tear risks introducing harmful microplastics into our food. A recent study even found that there are more microplastics in the human brain than ever before, with higher levels in people with dementia.
Switching to non-toxic household staples will reduce your risk of exposure and ingestion and benefit your long-term health. Here are six simple switches that our experts say will make an instant difference in your kitchen.
1. Glass or stainless steel food containers
(Image credit: Target)
Plastic food storage can be found in many people's kitchens because it is versatile and practical.
However, plastic food containers are one of the main culprits of the problem of microplastic ingestion as they are subject to high wear and tear and are therefore prone to chips and scratches.
The new study, published in Nature Medicine, found increased levels of micro- and nanoplastics in the human body, particularly in the brain, kidneys and liver. The extent of the damage it can cause is unclear, but some studies have linked it to inflammation and heart health risks .
Karina Toner , operations manager and professional cleaner at Spekless , says: "Plastic food containers can break down over time, especially when exposed to heat, releasing microplastics into the food. This pollution can build up in the body and is associated with health risks.
Cling film or "cellophane" is a useful accessory in the kitchen that you can use to securely seal leftovers and keep them fresh for longer. But it's actually one of the surprisingly toxic elements in your home . Adding a layer of plastic to food encourages the penetration of microplastics, especially if the food you are packing is still slightly warm.
"Plastic wrap is single-use and has a tendency to break down, especially when used to cover hot foods, introducing particles into the meals," says Karina.
Using beeswax wraps or silicone lids instead of plastic wrap is an easy way to make your home less toxic . It also protects the environment, your health and your wallet.
"Both are great options because the beeswax wraps are biodegradable and provide a natural seal, and the silicone lids are stretchy, reusable and safe for high temperatures," adds Karina.
Punteha van Terheyden, director of Solved, switched to silicone lids after becoming a mother in 2016. She says: "I was arrogant to a certain extent when it came to my own health, but when it came to my daughter I couldn't take any chances. I chose reusable silicone lids available at Walmart and found them very convenient since they didn't have to fit exactly to pots, pans, or containers to ensure a good seal. They are easy to wash and last a long time.
You may not know it, but sponges and dish brushes probably contain plastic too. The more you scrub with these devices, the more likely they are to break down microplastics in your dishwater and on your dishes.
Muffetta Krueger, founder of Muffetta's Housekeeping , says: "Cleaning tools made from synthetic materials often break and leave behind microplastics. Constant scrubbing while cleaning causes them to decompose and release their microplastics into the water in the dishes and onto surfaces like our dishes.
Switching to cleaning utensils made from natural materials like bamboo and other biodegradable materials will prevent microplastics from dissolving on your dishes and being swallowed the next time you serve them.
"Bamboo brushes and cellulose sponges are naturally biodegradable without the loss of microplastics. As a cleaning tip, I would therefore recommend them as good alternatives to other products," says Muffetta. "They clean effectively while being safer for the environment and your kitchen. »
4. Stainless steel, cast iron or ceramic coated cookware.
The strength of our non-stick pots and pans , which allow minimal food residue to accumulate, lies in a special non-stick coating that wears away over time with wear and tear. As this layer wears away, the scales can end up on our food during cooking, which is unlikely to be noticeable once eaten.
"These three materials do not release harmful chemicals or microplastics like nonstick items would, especially when scratched or exposed to high temperatures," says Muffetta. "Pro tip: You can season cast iron pans to create a natural non-stick effect."
5. Kitchen utensils made of wood, stainless steel or food grade silicone.
(Image credit: Lulu and Georgia)
The same goes for black plastic cookware , such as: B. Non-stick pots and pans: Parts of your utensils can become loose due to frequent use, when cleaning cookware or because the utensils often come into contact with high temperatures.
As Forrest Webber of Bear Brothers Cleaning says, "Plastic utensils are like the thin paper napkins of the utensil world. They can break, crack and slowly release microplastics into food. With these tools, it's like the plastic is trying to get into your food when you're not looking.
Replacing your plastic utensils with wood, stainless steel, or food-grade silicone is a quick change, but your future self will thank you for it.
Whether you're starting a kitchen from scratch or replacing your supplies entirely, Amazon's Home Hero 54-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set has everything you need and more, including eliminating the risk of microplastics in your utensils.
Solved manager Punteha added: "I was horrified when I looked into my frying pan while cooking the other day and saw the tip of my black plastic cutlery breaking off into fragments visible to the naked eye. I immediately gave up on mine and replaced it with a natural wood set. I recently replaced my plastic cutting board with a non-toxic one for the same reason.
Did you know that every time you drink a drink through a straw, you can drink small pieces of plastic? It's easy to believe that plastic straws pose few health risks because they are designed for single use and are typically new before being thrown away. But in reality, this is not the case and they can still cause harm.
"Plastic straws are the little rebels of the plastic world: they decompose, contaminate and can introduce microplastics into drinks," says Forrest. "Using bamboo or metal straws is an ideal alternative as they do not break down or release chemicals, are reusable and easy to clean."
Glass straws are also a good option, although they are much more fragile.
When it comes to cleaning, most of us have a routine of dusting, scrubbing, and wiping down surfaces. But there is also the freezer, which is less open, out of sight and often forgotten when cleaning. Like any other room in your home, your freezer needs a little love and attention to keep it fresh, organized, and functioning properly. How Often Should You Really Clean Your Freezer?
The good news is that it doesn't need to be done as frequently as other household tasks, according to experts. With a few simple strategies, you can keep your freezer in top condition and avoid unpleasant surprises when you reach for that bag of frozen peas.
How often should you clean your freezer?
"Freezers are a big problem that my customers often face," says Marie Dreyer, CEO and founder of Organize With Marie. "Why? Food often dies here. We often find tons of expired foods and items that our customers have forgotten.
To prevent your appliance from becoming a graveyard of frozen food, regular maintenance of your freezer is essential. "A quick clean once a month will keep things fresh, while a thorough clean every three to six months will ensure there's no build-up of forgotten leftovers or that bag of freezer-burned spinach you're looking for." "I had big plans," she says. professional organizer Kimberly Cheeseman.
Cleaning your freezer often strikes the perfect balance: often enough to prevent buildup, but not so often that it seems like a daunting task. Performing this task at least twice a year will help prevent ice from forming, which can make operations less efficient, and prevent the room from becoming cluttered with forgotten items.
If you constantly remove burnt food from the freezer or have difficulty closing the freezer door due to ice buildup, it may be time for a cleaning before six months. A good rule of thumb: If you notice that things aren't working as well as usual, whether it's because the inside is freezing cold or there's an unpleasant smell, take that as a sign that it's time for a thorough cleaning.
5 easy steps to clean your freezer
CatLane/Getty Images
Now that we've found the right time, let's talk about how we can make this process easy and painless. With a few tips and tricks, you can keep your freezer in top condition without disrupting your routine.
1. Empty the freezer
Start by removing everything inside. Yes, everything. "This will help avoid the constant overfilling of refrigerators," says Dreyer. "Clearing out items that have been sitting there for a long time or have been completely forgotten is an essential part of keeping your freezer organized."
Be sure to check the expiration date and look for signs of freezer burn, such as: B. Ice crystals on the packaging or discoloration.
2. Defrost (if necessary)
If you have a freezer with a manual defrost function or notice a thick layer of ice forming, it's time to defrost. You can also speed up the process by placing a bowl of hot water in it and closing the door. This creates steam that helps loosen the ice.
3. Clean the interior
Clean your freezer walls, shelves, and drawers with a solution of warm water and mild dish soap . For stubborn stains or sticky areas, a mixture of baking soda and water can help remove stuck-on residue. Make sure you dry everything thoroughly before you start putting away.
4. Don't forget the door seal.
The door gasket (or gasket) is one of the most important parts of your freezer: it keeps cold air in and hot air out. Clean it with a soft cloth and mild detergent and check for tears or signs of wear. If the seal is damaged, it may be time to replace it, as a faulty seal can cause your freezer to work harder than it should.
5. Get organized when filling
When it's time to put everything back in the freezer, take the opportunity to declutter. "Using clear, labeled containers to sort items can keep your freezer organized," says Dreyer. "Group similar items and create different categories, e.g. B. Meat, vegetables, fruit, breakfast items and leftovers. This makes it much easier to find what you need. Label everything with the date it was frozen to ensure you use the oldest products first.
How to keep your freezer clean
Once your freezer is spotlessly clean, make sure to maintain that condition between thorough cleaning and regular maintenance. "Once these organizational systems are in place, consistency is key to maintaining them," emphasizes Dreyer. "Try to return items to their intended location and take a few minutes each week to freshen up and put away misplaced items. It's easier to make small and more frequent adjustments than a major overhaul.
For example, if something drips or spills into your freezer, clean it immediately. (Spillages can cause icing and odors.) You should also make sure all items are tightly wrapped or sealed in plastic, aluminum foil, or freezer-safe containers. Vacuum sealing is also a great option for keeping food fresh and preventing freezer burn.
Finally, don't overload your freezer. While it's tempting to buy in bulk at Costco, filling your freezer to the brim can make it work harder and make it harder to organize. Leave some space for air circulation to keep everything at the right temperature. "Let your [freezer storage] containers set the limit," advises Cheesman. "When they overflow, it's time to reevaluate the content."
Cheeseman adds, "Keeping your freezer clean and organized means less food waste, easier meal planning, and no surprise attacks from frozen food spills." » Easy access to everything you need without having to dig through the frozen mess? Register us.
Dilly Carter Professional Organizer (Image: Dilly Carter / Dr. Beckmann / Cover images)
According to a nationwide study of 2,000 people, one in four people between the ages of 29 and 44 take advantage of selling and selling items online to make extra money.
A large part of the generation that entered the job market after the global financial crisis also agrees that they are less materialistic: 34% of them believe that "lessing" brings happiness.
On the other hand, the older generations need more but have good memories.
For some, the challenge lies in dealing with the sentimental items: almost a quarter (24%) have difficulty parting with family heirlooms and significant gifts, with women particularly vulnerable and 29% more likely than men (20%) to keep them.
Younger people also believe that many of their parents need a good, old-fashioned housecleaning: almost a quarter think mom and dad should do the cleaning, and 27% say they would feel overwhelmed by the task ahead.
For millennials who need a little extra cash to buy a first home or a well-deserved vacation, or for elders who want to let go of the past, professional organizer Dilly Carter teamed up with branded cleaning and laundry specialist Dr. Beckmann teamed up. to give advice. to order.
She said: "Decluttering can be transformative, especially at the start of a new year, but it is also very personal. generation
"The key is to take it step by step and focus on what really adds value to your life now and whether you see yourself using it in 6-12 months. There are simple solutions to help reduce inventory at home and save space in tight spaces.
Dilly Carter met with Dr. Beckmann teamed up to give tips on tidying up (Image: Dilly Carter / Dr. Beckmann / Cover images)
Natasha Brook, spokesperson for Dr. Beckmann, praised the virtues of "Lessting" and added: "Lessting is not just about creating order, but also about improving mental well-being by letting go of the past." We recognize the emotional and practical challenges decluttering, we've teamed up with expert Dilly Carter to share tips and tricks to help people across the country adopt a lighter, more organized lifestyle.
Carter says the challenge doesn't end once you clear the space, because staying with Lessing also means not just filling the vacated space with more things.
"To prevent clutter from accumulating again, get into the habit of putting away one item for every new item you bring into the house," she advises. "This ensures balance is maintained and excessive accumulation is avoided. Avoid storing items "just in case." Be honest about whether you will use something in the future.
Another useful tip is to make tidying an activity that we do together with family and friends.
"Cleaning up can be overwhelming, so don't be afraid to ask for help. A friend, family member, or even a professional organizer can provide support, purpose and motivation," she explains. "You never know, decluttering with a loved one can bring back fond memories as you browse through sentimental items."
No matter your reasons for wanting to clean (financial reasons or a fresh start), you can start by cleaning out your cleaning closet, which, ironically, is often ground zero for unnecessary items.
Dilly continues, "Incorporating these small but effortless changes ensures everyone is in control of their space and can get by with less as the new year begins." »
DILLY CARTER'S BEST TIPS for cluttering up
Start where you feel most comfortable
Start with the areas that bother you the most or the area you want to address. If the idea of a big project overwhelms you, start small and work your way up - just one cabinet can make a difference. The key is taking those first (and sometimes frightening) steps
Evaluate the use of each element.
Are you wondering when was the last time I used it? If the answer is a year or years and it is collecting dust, that is your sign that you may no longer need that item or that it no longer serves a purpose in your life. When you are honest with yourself, you can make more practical decisions
Pay attention to your emotional reaction.
Look at the object and think about how you feel when you hold or see it. This can help you assess whether the item makes you happy, sad, or not at all. If it doesn't make you feel happy or makes sense, maybe it's time to give up.
Create clean sort piles
If you're tackling a space like an under-stairs closet or drawer, empty it completely onto a clear surface or space. Sort items into three piles, keep them, sell them, and donate them. This method helps you visualize what you really need and what can be transferred to a home that needs it.
Dilly Carter Professional Organizer (Image: Dilly Carter / Dr. Beckmann / Cover images)
Limit duplicates or multiples
Write down how many similar items you own, for example how many bathroom cleaners you have or how many mugs do you really need? Next, set realistic boundaries based on your lifestyle. Try to keep a manageable number of important things that you really like or use every day.
Empty the room completely
For larger cleanups, remove everything from the room or area in question. Starting with a blank page will help you see the potential of the space. It is not necessary to order everything at once, progress accumulates over time.
Break the task into a manageable session. Schedule a specific time each day or week to take care of each room or area that needs attention. Consistency helps avoid burnout and keeps you motivated
Adopt the "one in, one out" rule
To prevent clutter from accumulating again, make it a habit to put away one item for every new item you bring into the house. This ensures that you maintain balance and avoid overloading. Avoid storing items "just in case." Be honest about whether you will use something in the future.
Set goals for each area
Before you start organizing, imagine how you want a space to feel and function. Whether it's a minimalist closet or a clutter-free kitchen, have a clear goal
Ask for help if needed
Cleaning up can be overwhelming, so don't be afraid to ask for help. A friend, family member, or even a professional organizer can provide support, purpose, and motivation. You never know, decluttering with a loved one can bring back fond memories as you browse through sentimental items.
A WOMAN came under fire from trolls after revealing her family of six shared white washcloths instead of using flush toilets.
Every day, Jazmine Brooke checks her " toilet rolls " and makes sure there is always enough material in her toilet.
Jazmine shares flannel shirts with her family of six.Photo credit: Tiktok/@jazminer17
He shared a video on his TikTok that has since gone viral, garnering over 2.6 million views on one of his videos alone.
However, since sharing her family routines, she has been criticized as "dirty", "disgusting" and "disgusting".
But that doesn't bother Jazmine, as she explains exactly how and why her family "wears the same [white flannel]."
She continued: "Technically, yes [we use the same thing], but not at the same time. We wash them. You use one and then throw it in the trash.
Learn more about bathrooms
"Technically everyone will continue to use it at some point, but they are clean.
"It's like a clean towel. And what you clean isn't really dirty.
She explained that reusable toilet paper "is actually more common than you think, and it's not messy."
Jazmine continues: "That's exactly what people want to call him because they don't know him.
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"We went through our toilet paper a lot quicker this week, so I had to do two loads yesterday because we ate Taco Bell and it really wasn't going well.
"Everyone fought for reusable toilet paper. As a family of six it can be quite difficult to carry on but we have a lot.
A woman reveals the easiest trick to make your home smell nice - and it's as cheap as chips
"I like to have it in stock and also have more preparation to do when it runs out.
"But they wash with hot water. It's no different than just using a towel after a shower because when you use it, you're clean.
"It was a real game changer. When you use a bidet you are much cleaner.
"Now it ends up on the toilet floor. And I also have a very large towel underneath in case anyone really needs it.
"I prohibit the use of more than one towel at a time. So if you really have tummy trouble, you can use the big towel."
Like I never had toilet paper because it was always in the dryer.
TikTok comment
Her video garnered widespread attention as more than 7,000 people flocked to the comments section to voice their opinions.
One commented: "As if I never had toilet paper because it was always in the dryer." »
A second added: "How do people say it's disgusting? They literally wash one after the other, you just apply them with a dry cloth and you're seemingly cleaner.
A third said: "With a bidet I find it completely acceptable." »
He leaves them in a basket on top of the bathroom.Photo credit: Tiktok/@jazminer17
Someone else added: "That's a very good idea!" I need a bidet. What is an economical bidet? »
READ MORE SUN STORIES
To which Jazmine replied: "I added a very similar model to my Amazon store. It's not exactly the same, but very similar.
"It's $30 (£24.37) but it's not heated! But I got used to it pretty quickly. I love ours!
More bathroom cleaning tips
Keeping a bathroom clean and fresh can sometimes seem like a daunting task, but with a few practical tips and a regular cleaning schedule, it can be much easier to achieve.
1. Regular maintenance
Daily Cleaning: A quick daily cleaning of surfaces such as sinks, countertops and faucets can prevent the buildup of dirt and soap scum. Have a microfiber cloth handy for this purpose.
Ventilation: Make sure your bathroom is well ventilated to prevent mold. Open the windows or use an exhaust fan during and after showering.
2. Combat limescale and hard water stains
Vinegar solution: Hard water can cause limescale buildup on faucets and showerheads. Dip a cloth in white vinegar, wrap it around the affected areas for a few hours, then scrub with a brush.
Lemon juice: Lemon juice is another effective natural cleaner against limescale. Apply it directly to the affected areas, leave it on for a while and then rinse.
3. Clean the bathroom
Toilet bowl cleaner: Use a special toilet bowl cleaner to clean the toilet bowl. Apply the cleaner under the rim and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a toilet brush.
Baking soda and vinegar: For a natural alternative, sprinkle baking soda into the container and then add vinegar. The effervescent effect helps remove stains and disinfect.
4. Shower and bath
Showerhead: Remove mineral deposits by soaking the showerhead in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. You can do this by filling a plastic bag with the solution and securing it around the shower head with a rubber band.
Bathtub: Use a non-abrasive cleaner to scrub the bathtub. For stubborn stains, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stains, and let it sit before scrubbing.
5. Tiles and grout
Grout cleaner: Grout can harbor mold. Use a grout cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub the grout lines. An old toothbrush can be particularly effective for this task.
Tile Cleaner: Clean tiles regularly with a mild detergent or vinegar solution to keep them shiny and free of soap scum.
6. Mirrors and glass
Window cleaner: Use window cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water to clean mirrors and glass surfaces. Wipe with a microfiber cloth to avoid streaks.
Shower Doors: Prevent soap scum from forming on glass shower doors by using a squeegee to remove the water after each use.
7. Floors
Sweep and Mop: Sweep the bathroom floor regularly to remove hair and dust. Clean with a mild detergent or appropriate floor cleaner to ensure cleanliness.
8. Trash cans and dirty clothes
Empty trash cans: Empty bathroom trash cans regularly to avoid bad smells.
Laundry: Keep a small laundry basket in the bathroom for used towels and bathmats and wash them regularly.
9. Final touches
Air Fresheners: Use air fresheners or essential oil diffusers to maintain a pleasant aroma in the bathroom.
Organization: Make sure toiletries and cleaning supplies are neatly organized and stored to reduce clutter and make cleaning easier.
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