As the world gears up for the Olympics this month, let’s get inspired by the spirit of competition in a totally different arena: household cleaning! Just like athletes train with unique techniques, different cultures boast ingenious approaches to household chores. Here are a few gold-medal cleaning hacks to incorporate into your routine:
Argentina (Vinegar Versatility)
White vinegar is a staple in Argentinian cleaning routines. Diluted with water, it tackles greasy surfaces, windows and can even be used as a fabric softener.
Brazil (Coffee Grounds Deodorizer)
Neutralize unpleasant kitchen odors in Brazil with leftover coffee grounds. Place a bowl near the source of the smell or sprinkle grounds down the garbage disposal.
Germany – Fenstertag (Window Day)
Dedicate a specific day (often Saturday) for a thorough window cleaning session. This ensures sparkling windows and better natural light throughout the week.
India (Salt Scrub)
Indians often use salt as a natural scourer for scrubbing cutting boards and cast-iron cookware. Just sprinkle some salt and scrub with a lemon half for a deep clean.
Italy (Lemon Power)
Italians are known for using lemons for more than just flavour. The natural acidity helps cut through grease and grime, making it a great (and eco-friendly) option for cleaning surfaces and even lightening stains.
Japan (Genkan Mudroom)
Create a mudroom-like entryway with a designated spot for shoes. This keeps dirt and debris from getting tracked throughout the house, minimizing floor cleaning.
Mexico (Bicarbonate Powerhouse)
Baking soda (bicarbonato de sodio) is a multi-purpose cleaner in Mexican households. It tackles tough stains, deodorizes carpets and furniture and even cleans stainless steel appliances.
Philippines – Paglalaglag (Shaking Out)
This Filipino tradition involves regularly shaking out mats, pillows and rugs outdoors to remove dust and allergens. It’s a simple yet effective way to freshen up your home.
South Korea (Ventilation is Key)
Koreans often utilize ventilation fans strategically to remove cooking fumes and moisture that can lead to grime buildup, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
Sweden (Microfibre Magic)
Swedes swear by microfibre cloths for nearly all surfaces. They’re great for trapping dust and dirt without needing harsh chemicals, and they’re perfect for furniture, windows and even greasy stovetops.
