Even appliances can use a spa day

With all the time at home lately, have your kitchen appliances been running overtime? Time to give your most used helpers a spa-like spritzer. Here are some non-chemical tips to freshen everything up.

Tea stains in kettles and mugs. Sprinkle cream of tartar on a damp dishcloth or sponge, scrub and watch those stains disappear. (Works on coffee stains, too.)

Baked-on microwave splatters. Fill a microwave-safe bowl with 2 to 3 cups of water and a few lemon slices. Heat it for 4 minutes and wait 15 to 20 minutes before opening the door. You may need an oven mitt to take the bowl out. Use a damp cloth to wipe away the steamy buildup, along with any lingering stains or food particles. Voila — fresh and clean. 

Could your dishwasher use a night off? Give it a break by removing the bottom rack to discard any food particles. If there’s a filter box, give it a rinse and a wipe-down. Return the bottom rack and fill a dishwasher-safe bowl or large measuring cup with 2 cups of vinegar. Set it upright in the rack and run the hottest cycle. Then remove the bowl, sprinkle the dishwasher with baking soda and run a rinse cycle to make it spotless. 

Quick reminders for other hardworking helpers:

• Empty vacuum cups regularly and check/replace filters
• Check/replace central air and heat filters each season, and more often if you have furry pets.
• Squeeze some lemon juice in your sink drain, add a tablespoon of baking soda and ½ cup of vinegar. Let bubble for a few minutes, then rinse with hot water.

Keep those appliances as clean as you can — they will give you better results and may last longer, too.