Household cleanup, although a necessary task throughout the year, does not have to require expensive cleaning supplies and equipment. Further, it can be a quick and efficient process, given one makes the most of available supplies. So, to help one get started, here are a few household cleaning hacks. From unclogging drains to removing stubborn stains, the following hacks will change the way one maintains their home and provide a more eco-friendly approach to cleaning:

1. Use baking soda and vinegar for drains
One can c ombine baking soda and vinegar to create a natural drain cleaner. One should pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of white vinegar. Then, one should cover the drain to contain the fizzing reaction, wait for a few minutes, and then pour hot water to remove the residue.

2. Rub lemon on water stains
The acidic content in lemon removes water stains from faucets and showerheads. So, one can rub a cut lemon directly on the stains, let it sit for a few minutes, and then rinse.

3. Dust with microfiber cloths and dryer sheets
Microfiber cloth attracts and holds onto dust particles. So, dry microfiber cloths can be used for dusting surfaces and damp ones for tougher grime. Further, dryer sheets can repel dust and hair, making them excellent options for dusting baseboards.

4. Clean windows with newspapers
Old newspapers can be used to clean windows and mirrors for a streak-free finish. One can spray their usual glass cleaner on the window and wipe it with balled-up newspaper.

5. Use toothpaste and chalk for wall stains
Plain white toothpaste can erase marks on the walls. One can dab a small amount of paste on a cloth and gently rub the mark before wiping it with a damp cloth. Further, chalk can remove oil stains on walls. One should rub chalk over the stain, let it sit, and then wipe it with a damp cloth.

6. Apply olive oil to stainless steel surfaces
Olive oil can be used to polish stainless steel appliances. One can apply a small amount to a microfiber cloth and rub it onto the surface. Then, they can buff the surface with a clean cloth for a shiny finish.

7. Use a hair dryer for water rings
Water rings can be removed from wooden surfaces using a hair dryer. All one has to do is blow hot air over the surface and then rub it with olive oil to recondition the wood.

8. Remove carpet stains with salt
Salt can absorb fresh stains on carpets. One should sprinkle salt over the stain, let it sit for a few minutes to absorb, and then vacuum the carpet.

9. Clean the microwave with vinegar
One can clean a microwave by heating a bowl of water and vinegar in it for several minutes. The steam loosens grime, making it easy to wipe away.

10. Remove grease stains with dish soap
Dish soap can be used to treat grease stains on clothes. One can apply a small amount directly to the stain, let it sit, and then wash as usual.

11. Use boiling water for burnt pans
One can boil water in burnt pans with a little baking soda, as the combination of heat and baking soda loosens the burnt residue.