Cleaning is a universal task, but the methods and techniques employed vary greatly across cultures. From the bustling streets of India to the tranquil villages of Scotland, households around the world have devised ingenious cleaning hacks using natural ingredients and age-old wisdom.

These methods not only make tidying up more efficient but also infuse the chore with cultural richness and tradition. In this article, we’ve gathered 30 unique cleaning hacks from different corners of the globe, each offering a glimpse into the diverse ways people keep their homes sparkling clean.

1. Vinegar and Newspaper – Japan

In Japan, vinegar is a staple not only in the kitchen but also in cleaning routines. Mixing vinegar with water creates a powerful all-purpose cleaner that effectively removes grease and grime. Japanese households also use crumpled newspapers to wipe windows and mirrors, leaving them streak-free and sparkling.

2. Baking Soda and Lemon – United States

Americans swear by the cleaning power of baking soda and lemon. A mixture of these two ingredients can tackle tough stains, deodorize carpets, and even unclog drains. Sprinkling baking soda on surfaces before scrubbing with lemon can work wonders on countertops and cutting boards, leaving them fresh and sanitized.

3. Coffee Grounds – Brazil

In Brazil, leftover coffee grounds are put to good use as a natural deodorizer and abrasive cleaner. Simply sprinkle dry coffee grounds on carpets or rugs to absorb odours, then vacuum them up for a fresh scent. Additionally, mixing coffee grounds with a little water creates a paste that can scrub away stubborn grime from kitchen surfaces.

4. White Vinegar and Olive Oil – Greece

Greeks have long relied on a simple mixture of white vinegar and olive oil to polish and protect wooden furniture. The vinegar cleans the surface, while the olive oil nourishes and restores its natural shine. This eco-friendly solution is both effective and budget-friendly, keeping furniture looking pristine for generations.

5. Potato – Russia

In Russia, potatoes are not just for eating—they’re also a handy cleaning tool. Cut a potato in half and dip the flat side in baking soda or salt to scrub away rust from metal surfaces or clean dirty pots and pans. The natural abrasiveness of the potato combined with the cleaning power of the baking soda or salt makes for a potent cleaning solution.

6. Ketchup – France

While it may seem surprising, ketchup is a popular cleaning hack in France, particularly for polishing copper cookware. The acidic properties of ketchup help break down tarnish and restore copper’s shine. Simply apply a small amount of ketchup to the surface, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse and polish for gleaming results.

7. Soda Water – Australia

Australians have discovered the cleaning power of soda water for tackling stubborn stains on clothing and upholstery. The carbonation in soda water helps lift stains to the surface, making them easier to blot away. Simply pour soda water directly onto the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then blot with a clean cloth until the stain disappears.

8. Rice – China

In China, rice is not only a staple food but also a handy cleaning tool for delicate glassware and vases. Fill the glassware with warm water and add a handful of uncooked rice. Swirl the mixture around gently to scrub away dirt and residue, then rinse with clean water for sparkling results without the risk of scratching.

9. Mustard Powder – United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, mustard powder is a secret weapon for removing stubborn odours from carpets and rugs. Simply sprinkle mustard powder liberally over the affected area, let it sit for a few hours to absorb odours, and then vacuum it up for a fresh-smelling home. The natural antibacterial properties of mustard powder also help eliminate germs and bacteria.

10. Club Soda – United States

Another American favourite, Club Soda, is a versatile cleaning agent that can tackle a variety of household tasks. From removing wine stains on carpets to shining stainless steel appliances, the carbonation and minerals in club soda help lift dirt and grime with ease. Simply pour club soda onto the stain or surface, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe or blot away for sparkling results.

11. Turmeric – India

In India, turmeric isn’t just a spice for cooking; it’s also a potent cleaning agent with antibacterial properties. Indians use turmeric paste to clean and brighten everything from kitchen countertops to bathroom tiles. Mixing turmeric powder with water creates a thick paste that can be applied to surfaces and left to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing away dirt and stains. Not only does turmeric effectively remove grime, but it also leaves behind a pleasant aroma and a vibrant, yellow hue, adding a touch of traditional Indian flair to your cleaning routine.

12. Vodka – Russia

Russians have found an unconventional yet effective use for vodka—cleaning glass and mirrors. The high alcohol content in vodka makes it an excellent degreaser and disinfectant, leaving glass surfaces streak-free and sparkling. Simply pour a small amount of vodka onto a clean cloth or paper towel and wipe down windows, mirrors, and other glass surfaces for a crystal-clear shine. Plus, the mild antiseptic properties of vodka help kill germs and bacteria, leaving your home not only clean but also sanitized.

13. Coconut Husks – Sri Lanka

In Sri Lanka, coconut husks are repurposed as natural scrubbers for cleaning dishes and utensils. The tough fibres of coconut husks provide excellent abrasion for scrubbing away grease and food residues without scratching surfaces. Simply cut a small piece of coconut husk and use it to scrub dishes, pots, and pans clean. Not only are coconut husks environmentally friendly and biodegradable, but they also leave dishes squeaky clean and free from chemical residues, making them a popular choice for eco-conscious households.

14. Lavender Oil – France

In France, lavender oil isn’t just prized for its soothing aroma; it’s also a powerful cleaning agent with antibacterial and antifungal properties. French households use lavender oil to freshen up laundry, eliminate odours, and repel insects. Adding a few drops of lavender oil to the rinse cycle of your washing machine leaves clothes smelling fresh and floral while placing cotton balls soaked in lavender oil in closets and drawers keeps moths and other pests at bay. Additionally, mixing lavender oil with water in a spray bottle creates a natural air freshener that can be used to deodorize carpets, upholstery, and linens, leaving your home smelling like a fragrant French garden.

15. Banana Peels – Brazil

In Brazil, banana peels are put to good use as natural polishers for leather shoes and furniture. The potassium and oil content in banana peels helps moisturize and shine leather, leaving it looking like new. Simply rub the inside of a banana peel onto leather shoes, handbags, or furniture, then buff with a clean cloth for a glossy finish. Not only are banana peels an eco-friendly alternative to commercial leather polishes, but they also leave behind a subtle, fruity scent, adding a tropical touch to your cleaning routine.

16. Salt – Italy

Italians rely on simple yet effective salt to clean and deodorize everything from cutting boards to carpets. Sprinkling coarse salt onto a cutting board and scrubbing it with a lemon half effectively removes stains and odours while sprinkling salt onto spills on carpets helps absorb moisture and prevent stains from setting. Additionally, mixing salt with water creates a natural abrasive cleaner that can be used to scrub away grime from kitchen surfaces and appliances, leaving them sparkling clean and sanitized.

17. Eggshells – Philippines

In the Philippines, eggshells are repurposed as natural scouring pads for cleaning pots, pans, and dishes. The abrasive texture of eggshells helps scrub away stubborn food residues and grease without scratching surfaces. Simply crush dried eggshells into small pieces and use them to scrub cookware clean, then rinse with water for spotless results. Not only are eggshells an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic scouring pads, but they also provide a cost-effective way to keep your kitchenware looking like new.

18. Lemons – Morocco

In Morocco, lemons are revered for their cleaning and disinfecting properties, particularly in traditional hammams (public bathhouses). Moroccan households use lemons to clean and whiten everything from tile grout to laundry. Squeezing lemon juice onto stained grout and scrubbing with a toothbrush effectively removes mould and mildew while adding lemon juice to the rinse cycle of your washing machine brightens whites and removes stubborn stains. Additionally, boiling lemon peels in water creates a natural air freshener that can be used to eliminate odours and add a refreshing citrus scent to your home.

19. Tea Bags – United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, used tea bags are repurposed as natural deodorizers for shoes and carpets. The tannins in tea help absorb moisture and neutralize odours, making them an effective solution for banishing funky smells. Simply place used tea bags inside smelly shoes or sprinkle dried tea leaves onto carpets, then let sit overnight to absorb odours. In the morning, remove the tea bags or vacuum up the dried tea leaves for fresher, odour-free shoes and carpets. Plus, the subtle scent of tea leaves adds a comforting aroma to your home, making it feel warm and inviting.

20. Rice Water – Korea

In Korea, rice water is prized for its skin-nourishing properties, but it’s also a secret weapon for cleaning and brightening skin and hair. Koreans use rice water as a natural facial cleanser and hair rinse to remove dirt, oil, and impurities without stripping away moisture. Simply soak uncooked rice in water for a few minutes, then strain out the rice and use the milky liquid as a gentle cleanser for your face and hair. The vitamins and minerals in rice water helps nourish and hydrate skin and hair, leaving them soft, smooth, and radiant.

21. Seaweed – Scotland

In Scotland, seaweed isn’t just for the beach—it’s also a natural cleaning agent with powerful disinfectant properties. Scots use seaweed to clean and sanitize everything from kitchen surfaces to bathroom tiles. Simply boil dried seaweed in water to create a potent cleaning solution, then strain out the seaweed and use the liquid to wipe down surfaces. The natural enzymes and minerals in seaweed help break down grease and grime while killing germs and bacteria, leaving surfaces clean and hygienic. Plus, the fresh, oceanic scent of seaweed adds a touch of coastal charm to your cleaning routine.

22. Beer – Germany

In Germany, beer isn’t just for drinking—it’s also a handy cleaning hack for polishing brass and copper. Germans use beer to remove tarnish and restore the shine to metal surfaces, such as doorknobs, kitchen utensils, and decorative items. Simply pour a small amount of beer onto a clean cloth and rub it onto the metal surface, then buff it with a dry cloth for a lustrous finish. The mild acidity and carbonation in beer help dissolve tarnish and grime while leaving behind a subtle, malty aroma, adding a touch of Bavarian flair to your cleaning routine.

23. Soapnuts – India

In India, soapnuts are nature’s answer to chemical-laden laundry detergents. Also known as reetha or aritha, soapnuts contain natural saponins that create a gentle, foaming lather when mixed with water. Indians use soapnuts to clean and soften laundry, leaving clothes fresh, clean, and free from harsh chemicals. Simply place a few soapnuts in a cotton bag and toss it into the washing machine with your laundry. The friction from the agitating water releases the saponins from the soapnuts, creating a natural detergent that effectively removes dirt and stains while protecting delicate fabrics. Plus, soapnuts are biodegradable and eco-friendly, making them a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious households.

24. Vinegar and Salt – Mexico

In Mexico, a simple mixture of vinegar and salt is a popular cleaning hack for removing stubborn rust stains from metal surfaces. Mexicans use this natural solution to clean everything from kitchen utensils to outdoor furniture. Simply sprinkle salt onto the rusted area, then pour vinegar over it to create a paste. Let the paste sit for a few hours to break down the rust, then scrub with a brush or sponge to remove the residue. The acidity of the vinegar helps dissolve the rust, while the abrasive texture of the salt helps scrub it away, leaving metal surfaces clean and rust-free.

25. Olive Oil – Italy

In Italy, olive oil isn’t just for cooking—it’s also a versatile cleaning hack for polishing and protecting wooden furniture. Italians use olive oil to nourish and restore the natural beauty of wood, leaving it looking rich and lustrous. Simply apply a small amount of olive oil onto a clean cloth and rub it onto the wooden surface in a circular motion. The oil penetrates deep into the wood, moisturizing and conditioning it to prevent drying and cracking. Plus, the natural antioxidants in olive oil help protect wood from damage caused by sunlight and moisture, prolonging its lifespan and enhancing its beauty.

26. Cinnamon Sticks – Middle East

In the Middle East, cinnamon sticks are a traditional cleaning hack for freshening up indoor spaces and repelling insects. Middle Eastern households use cinnamon sticks to create natural air fresheners that add a warm, spicy aroma to their homes. Simply simmer cinnamon sticks in water on the stove or place them in a potpourri burner to release their fragrant oils into the air. The sweet, comforting scent of cinnamon helps mask odours and create a cosy atmosphere, making it perfect for entertaining guests or relaxing at home. Additionally, the strong odour of cinnamon acts as a natural insect repellent, keeping pesky bugs at bay without the need for chemical sprays or repellents.

27. Coca-Cola – United States

In the United States, Coca-Cola isn’t just a refreshing beverage—it’s also a surprising cleaning hack for removing tough stains and rust. Americans use Coca-Cola to clean everything from toilets to car engines, thanks to its acidic properties and carbonation. Simply pour a can of Coca-Cola onto the stained or rusted area, then scrub with a brush or sponge to loosen dirt and grime. The acidity and effervescence of Coca-Cola help break down stains and rust, making them easier to remove. Plus, the sweet scent of Coca-Cola leaves behind a pleasant aroma, making cleaning a little more enjoyable.

28. Vinegar and Cornmeal – Native American

In Native American cultures, a mixture of vinegar and cornmeal is a traditional cleaning hack for polishing and shining silver jewellery and utensils. Native Americans use this natural solution to remove tarnishes and restore the lustre to silver items, such as bracelets, rings, and serving trays. Simply create a paste by mixing vinegar with cornmeal, then apply it to the tarnished silver and rub gently with a soft cloth.

The mild acidity of the vinegar helps dissolve tarnish, while the abrasive texture of the cornmeal helps polish the silver to a brilliant shine. Plus, the natural ingredients in this cleaning hack are gentle on delicate silver items, making it suitable for even the most precious heirlooms.

29. Ammonia – Egypt

In Egypt, ammonia is a common cleaning hack for removing stubborn stains and odours from carpets and upholstery. Egyptians use ammonia to deep clean carpets and rugs, leaving them fresh, clean, and free from allergens. Simply dilute ammonia with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then apply it to the stained or soiled area using a sponge or spray bottle.

The powerful cleaning agents in ammonia help break down dirt and grime, while the strong odour helps neutralize unpleasant smells. Plus, ammonia evaporates quickly, leaving behind a clean, residue-free surface that’s safe for pets and children.

30. Mayonnaise – Belgium

In Belgium, mayonnaise isn’t just a condiment—it’s also a surprising cleaning hack for removing water stains and rings from wooden furniture. Belgians use mayonnaise to moisturize and protect wood, leaving it looking shiny and new. Simply apply a small amount of mayonnaise onto the water-stained area and let it sit for several hours or overnight.

The oils and fats in mayonnaise penetrate deep into the wood, nourishing and conditioning it to restore its natural beauty. After allowing the mayonnaise to work its magic, wipe away any excess with a clean cloth and buff the surface to a glossy finish. Plus, the subtle scent of mayonnaise adds a hint of culinary charm to your cleaning routine, making it a delightful experience from start to finish.

Conclusion

From the aromatic spices of India to the coastal remedies of Scotland, these 30 cleaning hacks from around the world showcase the ingenuity and resourcefulness of households across cultures. Whether it’s using vinegar and newspapers in Japan or mayonnaise in Belgium, each method reflects a deep understanding of natural ingredients and traditional practices passed down through generations.

By incorporating these international cleaning secrets into our routines, we not only make our chores more efficient but also honour the diverse cultures and traditions that enrich our world. So next time you reach for a cleaning solution, why not try a method inspired by a distant land? You may just discover a new favourite hack that adds a touch of global flair to your home’s cleanliness. Cheers to a sparkling, culturally rich living space!