10 Cleaning Hacks Our Moms Swore By

Long before TikTok cleaning hacks took over, moms in the ‘80s and ‘90s already had their own tried-and-true methods. Many of these tricks came from their parents and grandparents, and surprisingly, a lot of them still hold up today.

Vinegar for Streak-Free Windows

A spray bottle of vinegar and water was the go-to for cleaning glass. Paper towels, or sometimes even newspaper, were used to wipe everything down. It left windows clear without the residue some commercial cleaners had.

Baking Soda for Carpet Smells

Instead of expensive deodorizers, moms sprinkled baking soda on the carpet before vacuuming. It soaked up odors and left things smelling fresh. It worked especially well in homes with pets.

Toothpaste for Scuff Marks

White toothpaste wasn’t just for teeth — it doubled as a polish for sneakers and even scuff marks on walls. A rag and a little scrubbing went a long way.

Lemon for Microwave Cleaning

Moms knew the fastest way to cut grease and odors in the microwave: a bowl of water with lemon slices heated for a few minutes. The steam loosened stuck-on food, and wiping it down was a breeze.

Salt for Pan Stains

Instead of tossing out stained pans, salt and a little scrubbing power were the answer. Sometimes a lemon slice would be added to really break down burned-on bits.

Ammonia for Stove Grates

For tougher jobs, moms used ammonia to soak greasy stove grates overnight in plastic bags. It wasn’t pleasant smelling, but it worked.

White Towels and Rags

Instead of specialty cloths, moms saved worn-out towels, cut them into rags, and used them for every kind of cleaning. It was cheap, practical, and effective.

Airing Out Rooms

Opening windows wasn’t optional — it was part of cleaning. Fresh air was considered one of the best “cleaning products” available, especially after a deep scrub with stronger cleaners.

Toothbrushes for Tight Spots

Old toothbrushes never went straight in the trash. Moms used them to scrub grout, faucets, or anywhere else regular brushes couldn’t reach.

The Sock Method for Dusting

An old cotton sock slipped on the hand was a dusting tool for blinds and vents. It made reaching tight spaces much easier and worked with or without polish.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.