'Kitchen Organization and Cleaning' Category

If your sink sprayer is leaking beneath the sink, you may be able to fix it by simply tightening the hose connections with a basin wrench. To replace a cracked or leaking hose, buy a replacement hose at a hardware store or home center. Braided, reinforced hose will provide longer service. [...] Read More

Wash out garbage cans regularly with a solution of 1/2 cup ammonia and 1 gallon of water. Sprinkle borax in each clean, dry container to keep it fresh. You can discourage animals like dogs, opposums and crows that are top contenders in the suburbs from getting into the garbage by any one of the following suggestions. [...] Read More

Ants can be held in check with baited traps or residual sprays that you can buy at the supermarket or hardware store. Apply the spray or set several traps around windowsills, exterior doorways, baseboards and sinks. [...] Read More

You can clean the exterior of most ranges and refrigerators with an all purpose glass and surface cleaner or a homemade solution of one tablespoon of dishwashing detergent in a gallon of warm water. If you make the solution any stronger it will leave a residue that's hard to rinse away. Wipe down cooktops regularly. [...] Read More

To eliminate odors in the garbage disposer, grind cut-up citrus rinds while flushing the unit with cold water. If food gets caught in the disposer, turn off the power and use a broom handle to move the flywheel back and forth by pushing against the hammer, a notched metal piece on the flywheel.Once it moves, you should be able to remove the problem causing object with a pair of kitchen tongs. [...] Read More

Pros: Butcher block is easy to install, and if it gets badly nicked or scratched, it can be repaired easily by sanding and resealing. Cons: Butcher block burns, scratches, and dents easily. It needs to be treated regularly with mineral oil or wax, or to be sealed with a polyurethane sealer. The joint between countertop and backsplash must be caulked to prevent seepage. Butcher block is moderately expensive. [...] Read More

Different counter materials require slightly different maintenance regimens, but there are general practices that apply to all. Many counters are not entirely heatproof, for example, so be careful about setting down hot pans or casseroles without a trivet or a pad. [...] Read More

Commercial glass cleaners will shine up most faucets and fixtures. However if your water is heavy with minerals then an acidic cleaner like white vinegar will do a better job. In severe cases, commercial products may be necessary but make sure to use these products as directed. [...] Read More

Try to clean the sink quickly once a day with dishwashing detergent or a gentle scouring liquid or powder cleanser. For tough stains, follow the appropriate treatment below for your type of sink. [...] Read More

Remove cabinet doorsm drawers and hardware. Drop the hardware in a box or can so that nothing gets lost. You can clean and polish it while the cabinets are drying. Place the doors and drawers in a dust-free area where they can stay several days while they're drying. Wash all surfaces with a strong detergent. [...] Read More