5 Underrated Cleaning Tricks You Should Use More

Charlie Golsley in home living

3/19/25

[updated: 4/2/25]

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When it comes to cleaning, most people stick to the basics, such as dusting, vacuuming, and wiping things down. But there are some lesser-known tricks that can save you time, effort, and frustration. These underrated cleaning hacks use simple household items in surprising ways to tackle tough messes. Here are five clever tips you’ll want to add to your routine.

1. Use a Dryer Sheet to Clean Baseboards

Dryer sheets aren’t just for laundry; they’re fantastic for cleaning baseboards, too. Their anti-static properties help repel dust, meaning your baseboards will stay cleaner for longer.

Simply run a dryer sheet along the surface to lift away dirt, grime, and hair. As a bonus, your room will smell fresh afterward.

2. Clean Blinds with Tongs and Microfiber Cloths

Dusting window blinds can be tedious, but this trick makes it a breeze. Wrap microfiber cloths around the ends of a pair of kitchen tongs and secure them with rubber bands.

Then, clamp the tongs around each slat and swipe back and forth. This hack grabs dust from both sides at once, cutting your cleaning time in half.

3. Polish Faucets with Wax Paper

If you’re tired of water spots and fingerprints on your faucets, wax paper is the solution. After cleaning your sink fixtures as usual, rub a sheet of wax paper over the surface.

The wax creates a protective layer that repels water and keeps your faucets shining longer.

4. Remove Pet Hair with a Rubber Glove

Struggling with stubborn pet hair on your furniture? A damp rubber glove works wonders. Slip on the glove, dampen it slightly, and run your hand over couches, chairs, or car seats.

The hair will cling to the glove, making cleanup quick and easy. Rinse the glove as needed, and repeat until the surface is hair-free.

5. Freshen Your Mattress with Baking Soda and Essential Oils

Your mattress absorbs sweat, odors, and dust over time, but a simple baking soda trick can keep it fresh. Mix a cup of baking soda with a few drops of your favorite essential oil, then sprinkle the mixture across your mattress.

Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before vacuuming it up. The baking soda absorbs moisture and odors, while the essential oil leaves a pleasant scent behind.

These underrated cleaning hacks prove that a little creativity can go a long way. By using common household items in unexpected ways, you can simplify your cleaning routine and achieve better results. Try these tips, and you might just wonder how you ever cleaned without them.