BY MARTINE S.
Updated February 25, 2019, 6:33 a.m.
A big part of Haitian culture is finding natural ways to do things. We see it in the way we seek out medicine or ingredients we use in our food. We like it fresh and we like for it to be natural. Kitchen cleaning should be no different. This is after all where the magic of Haitian cooking takes place. So here are some great tips that you can use to keep your kitchen naturally fresh and clean – without any of those harsh chemicals.
Baking Soda
Leaving an open box of baking soda in your refrigerator can help to neutralize any foul odors. This is a classic household tradition and worth nothing as it is truly effective.
Baking Soda and White Vinegar Solution for Cookware
When you need to clean grease or leftover food from your cookware, try mixing some baking soda and white vinegar together (the mixture should get bubbly). Sprinkle the mixture on the cookware and allow to stand for about 10 minutes. Then rinse them using hot water.
Simmering Cinnamon Stick, Orange Peel, Cloves and Water
To eliminate odors in your kitchen, try boiling a pot of orange peel, simmering cinnamon stick, cloves and water. You can also sprinkle a dash of cinnamon on a baking tray and place in a heated oven.
Lemon for your microwave
Ever wondered how you could avoid using those harsh cleaners that just scratch up the surface of your microwave? Then this should be just right for you. Simply mix 3 tbsp of lemon juice with 1 1/2 cups of water in a bowl that is safe to be used in the microwave then heat it up uncovered in the microwave on High for at least 5 minutes. Ensure that the steam is condensing on the inside walls and top of your microwave. After the time elapses simply wipe away the softened food using a dishrag.
Lemon for your refrigerator
Leaving a half of a lemon in your refrigerator can also aid in relieving odors.
The Dust Bin
That’s right, your dust bin. Discarding the expired items from your kitchen can aid in maintaining a fresh atmosphere. Believe it or not, even your spices and baking staples have a standard shelf life of six months to one year.
Orange Peel in Dish Washing Liquid
Placing a small piece of orange peel in your dish washing liquid before using it can add a great zesty smell to your clean dishware.
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