There are two areas of the home where everyone cringes at the thought of having to clean, the bathroom and the kitchen. Most of us avoid the task at all costs but there comes a time when it’s a must! Especially now that the spring cleaning frenzy has begun! Yes, it’s spring, and the big clean is upon us, even our techs got into the spirit recently by cleaning out their trucks and reorganized their tools of the trade but it doesn’t have to be such a daunting task. Here are some simple DIY solutions to help you get the job done quickly and avoid spending hours fighting with tough grease and grime. What’s even better is that all these solutions are cost-effective and can be found in your very own pantry. If not, a quick trip to your local Dollar or 99cent store should do the trick!
1. Get Stove Burners Squeaky Clean with Ammonia!
This has been tried and tested by yours truly and it really did work! Simply put each individual burner into a thick Ziploc bag, add ¼ cup of ammonia and seal tightly. Let it sit flat overnight preferably outside to avoid fumes inside the home. Remove from the bag the next day and watch all the grime just wash away with little scrubbing effort! (Tip: you don’t need to submerge the whole burner in ammonia. The fumes will do the job on their own.)
2. Water + Lemon Wedges = Clean Microwave
That’s right!! That’s all you need to get that old dried-up sticky mess inside your microwave cleaned! In a microwavable bowl or measuring cup squeeze a lemon into about 2 cups of water, toss the lemon wedges in as well and microwave for about 3mins and let it set for another 5mins after that. The steam will cut through the mess and make it easier to clean! (Tip: Don’t open the microwave until the full 5mins are up!)
3. The One Trick Wonder For All Your Tub and Shower Needs!
We all swear by this DIY trick to clean shower doors in a snap but it actually works really well on tubs and tiles too! Now we must warn you, it does stink quite a bit but it really works wonders! Warm-up 1 cup of vinegar almost to a boil. Carefully pour into a spray bottle (remember it’s HOT) and add about 1 cup or so of liquid dish soap. Some say liquid Dawn is best but I’ve used 99cent store Palmolive and it works just as well. Spray all over shower doors, tub, and tile. Let it sit for at least 15min and easily scrub away tub stains, mildew, and shower door buildup! Just remember, the longer it sits the less scrubbing you’ll need to do!
4. Hard Water Stains Be Gone!
Hard water stains around fixtures can be tough to get to especially because they are in tight spots like close to a wall where your hand or brush can’t reach. One solution to this problem area is a combination of DIY solution and a firm bristle toothbrush. Pour 2 cups of vinegar into a spray bottle, ¼ cup of lemon juice and 1 cup of your choice of liquid dish soap. Shake well and start spraying! Let the solution sit for 30mins then start scrubbing those tough hard to reach water stains! It’s that simple!
Flushing Inappropriate Items Down the Toilet
When homeowners go on vacation or leave their homes for extended periods, it is wise to turn off the water heater before leaving. Why? It could prevent many unwanted occurrences, such as water leaks, gas leaks, or even a high electric bill.
There are many ways that someone may think about making their home 
even more beneficial.
You know how the old adage goes, “April showers bring May flowers.” What those showers may also bring are excessive water and potential 
remain connected. If you notice a backup or a disconnected hose, it’s important to call a plumber immediately.