15 Cleaning Products in Your Kitchen You Should Replace Today

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While the kitchen might be the heart of your home, it’s likely that underneath your shiny countertops and perfectly arranged dishes are a handful of cleaning products that aren’t pulling their weight or even worse, are causing more harm than good. Some of the items in your cleaning arsenal may need to be retired because, after all, a clean kitchen is not only a beautiful kitchen: it’s a healthy kitchen.

It doesn’t have to be such a huge task to swap out these products. With a bit of know how and a willingness to unlearn old habits, you can turn your kitchen into a safer and healthier space. Below, we break down the cleaning products you’re using in your kitchen that are way overdue for a refresh.

Detergent Containing Harsh Chemicals

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Dish soaps aren’t all the same. Many of the conventional options contain phosphates and synthetic fragrances that can irritate your skin and are harmful to aquatic life. Find plant based alternatives with minimal ingredients. This is a small switch protecting both you and the environment.

Cleaner for Cracked or Worn Cutting Board

What products you use on your cutting boards do matter. If your cleaner leaves residue or doesn’t sanitize properly, you need to switch. Keep things bacteria free without the unnecessary chemicals using a food safe hydrogen peroxide spray.

Outdated Stainless Steel Polishes

Remember that bottle of stainless steel cleaner you got years ago? It’s not doing its job if it’s leaving streaks or has an odd smell. Try using a microfiber cloth with white vinegar—it’s a low cost alternative that works well.

Glass Cleaner With Ammonia

Ammonia is a major component of many glass cleaners and can cause headaches and irritation with repeated inhalation. For a streak free shine without the chemical punch, try a homemade mix of vinegar and water.

Sponges That Smell Funny

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Your dish sponge is probably a germ hot spot. Kitchen sponges can contain more bacteria than a toilet seat. If it smells like last week’s dinner, it’s time to toss it. Silicone scrubber or a machine washable sponge that is quick to dry and withstands bacteria development would be fine.

All-Purpose Cleaner That You Hate

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You may be avoiding the scent or poor performance of your all purpose cleaner, it is time to ditch it. Try a citrus based spray, it smells great and it gets the grease.

Bleach With No Lid

While bleach is powerful, it can be dangerous if your container is cracked or the lid won’t seal. You can use a newer bottle or use oxygen bleach as a safer option to sanitize.

Moldy Dish Towels

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It’s not just gross to use dish towels that have already seen better days; it’s counterproductive. Bacteria and mold thrive in damp, unwashed towels. Rotating them often, invest in quick drying machine washable options.

A Floor Cleaner That Won’t Do Its Job

If your mop solution leaves a sticky residue or doesn’t get the grime, it’s time to try something else. It’s no wonder so many people swear by castile soap mixed with hot water for an effective and eco friendly clean.

Oven Cleaner That’s Too Harsh

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Traditional oven cleaners can emit a lot of fumes. Instead, spray grimy surfaces with vinegar, sprinkle baking soda over top and let it sit overnight, then wipe it clean.

Outdated Air Fresheners

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While air fresheners may cover up odors, they’re often filled with chemicals that can irritate the respiratory system. A natural touch would be to opt for an essential oil diffuser or stovetop simmer pot filled with cinnamon, and some citrus.

The Dishwasher Detergents That Fail

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Your detergent could be to blame if your dishes come out cloudy or still dirty. If you have one of these, switch to one with enzymes that break down food particles more effectively. Bonus points if it’s eco friendly.

Grimy Sink Cleaners

Are you unimpressed with the cleaner for your sink? A lemon slice and some baking soda will do wonders for scrubbing stains and odors without scratching the surface.

Old Scrubbing Brushes

If your scrubbing brush is frayed or missing bristles, you’re not helping yourself. Change it to one that has firm, durable bristles for better power for scrubbing.