With spring cleaning season in full swing, people are now tackling the household jobs they’ve been putting off. Now is the perfect time to get rid of the grim buildup inside your appliances, which can be done using common household ingredients already in your cupboard.
From smelly dishwashers to dusty radiators, Gwil Snook, AO’s appliance expert, has revealed simple hacks using everyday household items.
Clean your tumble dryer filter with a lint roller
Gwil said: “A big mistake people make is neglecting to clean the lint filter after each cycle. A clogged filter reduces airflow, causing the dryer to work harder and consume more energy. Use a lint roller to quickly remove trapped fluff from the filter, clearing the filter in seconds, improving airflow and making your dryer more efficient. By ensuring the lint filter is clean, you can significantly improve your dryer’s performance.”
Dust radiators with socks and tongs
Many may not realise that hidden dust and debris in radiators are silently adding to your energy bills. Dust clogging up radiators can block airflow and reduce energy efficiency, making your heating work harder than necessary. This not only reduces energy efficiency but can also drive up your energy bills.
To combat this issue, Gwil recommends a simple hack of creating a DIY cleaning tool that can be created with everyday household items.
Gwil said: “Simply grab an old sock and attach it to the ends of kitchen tongs. It creates a makeshift duster that can easily reach into tight spaces, effectively trapping hidden dust and debris. The unique fabric of the sock functions as an excellent dust magnet, helping to prevent dirt from re-entering the air. For even better results, lightly dampen the sock with a mix of water and white vinegar. This not only helps to pick up additional dirt but also adds a layer of sanitation to your cleaning process.”
Refresh dishwasher with ice and vinegar
Gwil said: “Over time, dishwashers can develop limescale build-up and lingering odours from food residue, leading to a smelly dishwasher. This build-up can reduce its efficiency and could cause it to deteriorate more quickly. Dropping ice cubes made from a simple mix of water and vinegar into the cutlery tray before running a short cycle will break down stubborn limescale and eliminate lingering odours.
“This is a simple yet effective way to refresh your machine. The acidity of the vinegar helps to break down, while the ice provides a gentle scrubbing effect as it melts. This method is an easy, chemical-free way to keep your dishwasher smelling fresh and performing at its best.”