Natural Cleaners vs Store-Bought Stuff for Appliances
Totally get where you’re coming from. I’ve tried all the “green” tricks too, and yeah, they work up to a point. For stuff that’s just a little dirty, baking soda and vinegar are fine, but once you’re dealing with years of build-up, it’s a losing battle. I’ve spent way too much time scrubbing oven racks and I always end up thinking, is this really worth the time I’m saving on not buying the heavy-duty cleaner?
Honestly, sometimes I just go for the store-bought stuff if it’s really bad. I hate the fumes, but opening windows and wearing gloves helps. For regular maintenance though, natural cleaners are cheaper and less harsh, so I stick with those when I can. If someone ever figures out a cheap, non-toxic spray that actually dissolves all that baked-on grease, I’d be first in line. Until then, it’s just about picking your battles... and maybe lowering your standards a bit for “clean.”
Natural Cleaners vs Store-Bought Stuff for Appliances
If someone ever figures out a cheap, non-toxic spray that actually dissolves all that baked-on grease, I’d be first in line.
Same here. I’ve tried every “miracle” Pinterest hack out there, and while lemon juice and baking soda make my fridge smell nice, they don’t stand a chance against the gunk in my toaster oven. There was one time I spent an hour scrubbing a client’s stainless steel range with a homemade paste—looked great until the light hit it just right and you could see every streak. Ended up caving and using a store-bought polish anyway.
I do think for day-to-day stuff, natural cleaners are fine. But when it comes to deep cleaning before a photoshoot or open house, I’ll admit I reach for the heavy-duty stuff (with all the windows open and a fan going). It’s not ideal, but sometimes you just need results. Maybe someday there’ll be a magic eco-friendly spray that actually works on burnt cheese... until then, it’s all about balance and not stressing over the little spots no one else notices.
- Natural cleaners are great for maintenance, but when it comes to baked-on messes, I’m with you—sometimes you just need the chemical cavalry.
- Tried every combo of vinegar, baking soda, and elbow grease. Still ended up with streaks or that weird cloudy look on stainless.
- For deep cleans before a walkthrough or listing photos, I’ll use the store stuff (mask on, windows open). Not proud, but it works.
- If anyone invents a non-toxic spray that actually melts off burnt cheese, I’ll buy stock in it. Until then, it’s a mix of both and not sweating the tiny stuff.
If anyone invents a non-toxic spray that actually melts off burnt cheese, I’ll buy stock in it.
Same here. I’ve tried every “miracle” natural paste and still end up with that stubborn residue, especially on my old oven racks. For the historic stuff—like original brass handles—I stick to gentle cleaners, but for everything else, I admit the store-bought degreaser comes out when things get rough. Just wish there was a middle ground that didn’t leave streaks or take an hour of scrubbing.
Same here. I’ve tried every “miracle” natural paste and still end up with that stubborn residue, especially on my old oven racks.
I hear you on the “miracle” pastes—baking soda and vinegar just don’t cut it for baked-on cheese. I’ve tried the store-bought degreasers too, but sometimes they leave a weird film or smell. Has anyone actually found a homemade mix that works on oven racks without scratching them up? I’m always worried about damaging the finish, especially on older appliances.
