As the warmer weather arrives and the first May Bank Holiday approaches, many households are firing up their barbecues for the first time this year. However, after months of storage, grills often have built-up grease and burnt-on residue from previous uses.
Cleaning expert Lynsey Crombie suggests an eco-friendly solution: use a brown onion, which costs about 32p at supermarkets. Simply cut the onion in half and rub it onto hot grill grates using a fork. Lynsey explains, 'The natural juices help break down burnt-on residue and add antibacterial benefits.'
For stubborn grease, she recommends pouring beer over a warm grill, as the acidity loosens the residue. Alternatively, bicarbonate of soda mixed with water into a paste can be applied and scrubbed off. Lemons, cut in half and rubbed on the grills, also lift grease and leave a fresh scent.
Lynsey's followers have praised the natural methods, with one saying, 'We are the onion family,' and another noting, 'I don’t like to use harsh chemicals having a little granddaughter and dog.'
To tackle flies attracted to food waste, professional cleaner Claire from @sisterpledgecleans advises sprinkling salt at the bottom of bins. This prevents flies from laying eggs and producing maggots. Once dead, clean the bin thoroughly and replace the salt layer regularly, especially in summer.
