That lingering scent of last night's fish supper or the ghost of fried onions can turn a welcoming kitchen into a room you'd rather avoid. Before you reach for harsh chemical sprays, why not try a natural solution? We've uncovered five remarkably simple and effective hacks using everyday items to leave your home smelling fresh and clean.
The Power of the Humble Lemon
This citrus superstar is a natural deodorising powerhouse. Don't just throw your used lemon halves away after cooking. Instead, pop them into your dishwasher's cutlery basket and run a hot cycle. The citric acid will work wonders, cutting through grease and leaving your machine and glasses with a sparkling, fresh scent.
Vanilla Extract: Your Oven's Best Friend
If the aftermath of a roasting session has left your oven smelling less than desirable, vanilla is your secret weapon. Simply dab a small amount of vanilla extract onto a soft cloth and wipe down the interior of your cool oven. The pleasant aroma will neutralise unpleasant smells, making your next baking project a fragrant delight.
Revive Your Wooden Chopping Boards
Wooden chopping boards are notorious for harbouring strong smells from garlic, onions, and fish. To rescue them, create a paste using coarse salt and water. Scrub the paste into the wood grain thoroughly, then rinse. For a final touch, wipe the surface with a slice of lemon to banish any remaining odour and impart a fresh, citrusy note.
The Fridge Freshener You Already Own
A box of bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) is one of the most effective and cheapest odour absorbers you can buy. Leave an open box tucked away on a shelf in your refrigerator. It will passively neutralise smells from strong cheeses, leftovers, and more, keeping the air inside your fridge neutral and fresh for weeks.
Neutralise Hands with Stainless Steel
It sounds like magic, but it's simple science. After handling pungent ingredients like garlic or fish, rub your wet hands vigorously on the side of a stainless steel spoon or under cold running water while holding a steel utensil. The molecules in the steel bind with the sulphur compounds causing the smell, effectively eliminating it from your skin instantly.
With these five clever tricks, you can tackle kitchen odours naturally, cheaply, and effectively, ensuring your home always feels welcoming.
