Deep clean your kitchen: Use vinegar, baking soda and coconut oil for chemical-free and safe home

How to clean kitchen counters: Avoid vinegar on granite or marble surfaces. Use warm water mixed with a few drops of coconut oil for a safe alternative (Image: Canva)

If you are conscious about the environment, and about minimizing your carbon footprint, using all-natural cleaning products is an excellent way to go about it. Natural cleaning products like vinegar and baking soda are great for removing tough stains and grease in your kitchen, while lemon juice is a natural antibacterial agent that will also leave your home smelling fresh.

Instead of spending money on chemical cleaning products, a lot can be achieved by using coconut oil and coarse salt. Add essential oils and fragrances like tea tree or eucalyptus for a pleasant aroma and extra antibacterial properties, while microfibre cloths are perfect for wiping surfaces without leaving streaks.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to deep cleaning your kitchen using common, natural, non-toxic ingredients.

Step 1: Clean the kitchen counters and backsplash

• How to clean: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray this solution onto countertops and backsplash, let it sit for 5 minutes, then wipe clean with a microfibre cloth.

• For stubborn stains: Sprinkle baking soda directly on the stain, add a few drops of lemon juice, and scrub gently with a damp cloth.

• Tip: Avoid vinegar on granite or marble surfaces. Use warm water mixed with a few drops of coconut oil for a safe alternative.

• For gas burners: Remove burners and soak them in hot water mixed with a few tablespoons of baking soda. Scrub with a mixture of coarse salt and water for any burnt-on grime.

• For glass or ceramic stovetops: Sprinkle baking soda on the surface, spray with vinegar, and let it bubble for 5–10 minutes. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

• Tip: Add a few drops of lemon juice to the mixture for a streak-free shine.

• How to clean: Make a paste with ½ cup baking soda and a few tablespoons of water. Spread this over the interior surfaces of the oven (avoid heating elements) and let it sit overnight. The next day, spray vinegar over the paste and wipe clean with a damp cloth.

• Remove odours: Place a small bowl of water with lemon slices in the oven. Heat for 15 minutes to eliminate any lingering smells.

• How to clean: Sprinkle baking soda in the sink, scrub with a sponge, and rinse with white vinegar. This combination disinfects and removes stubborn buildup. Use lemon slices to scrub faucets and remove hard water stains, then polish with a dry cloth.

• For clogged drains: Forget your chemical full drain cleaning products, just pour ½ cup baking soda followed by ½ cup vinegar down the drain, cover and let it fizz for 15 minutes, then flush with boiling water.

• Empty and declutter: Remove all food items and toss anything expired.

• Clean shelves and drawers: Use a solution of 1 part vinegar to 2 parts water to wipe shelves and drawers. For sticky stains, scrub gently with a paste made of baking soda and water.

• Eliminate odours: Place an open bowl of coffee grounds or activated charcoal inside the fridge to absorb odours.

• How to clean: Wipe cabinet exteriors with a mixture of warm water and a small amount of coconut oil. Use a toothbrush to clean grooves and around handles. For grease spots, sprinkle baking soda on the area and scrub gently.

• Step 8: Sanitise cutting boards

• How to clean: Sprinkle coarse salt on wooden cutting boards, rub with half a lemon, and rinse with warm water. For plastic boards, soak in a solution of vinegar and water for 10 minutes before scrubbing.

• Step 9: Sweep and mop the floors

• How to clean: To your mop water, add a solution of warm water, ½ cup vinegar, and a few drops of essential oil. For greasy spots, scrub with a baking soda paste.

• Optional polish: Add a small amount of coconut oil to wooden floors for a natural shine.

• Step 10: Disinfect frequently touched areas

• How to clean: Spray a vinegar-water solution on high-touch areas such as light switches, door handles, and appliance buttons. Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth. Natural cleaning products like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice are not only cost-effective but also safer for your health and the environment. They are free from harmful chemicals that are getting into bodies as well as into your rivers.