Salt – the kitchen superstar that makes our food taste delicious. Salt has been used since the medieval era to make our food taste delicious and provide nutrients. However, did you know that this kitchen ingredient also has amazing cleaning powers? Salt is a mild abrasive and an anti-bacterial agent that is ideal for removing stains and grease from kitchen items. Imagine how surprised I was when I came across some old-school tips from my grandmother about using salt for cleaning. And guess what, it works like magic. Do you want to know how to use salt in everyday kitchen cleaning? Read on to know more.
Also read: Salt dilemma: Is it safe to eat refined white salt? Nutritionist shares information
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Here are 5 interesting ways to use salt in everyday kitchen cleaning
1. Cleaning the cutting board
When was the last time you washed your cutting board? You might be surprised to learn that cutting boards are prone to bacteria and stains caused by chopping and slicing. To keep them clean and fresh, generously sprinkle some salt on the board. Then, take half a lemon and use it to rub the salt onto the chopping board. The abrasive nature of the salt combined with the disinfecting properties of the lemon juice will clean the stains on the chopping board and kill the bacteria. Wash the board with warm water and let it dry. Your cutting board will smell and look just like new!
2. Remove stubborn pan grease
Indian cooking requires oil and ghee on a regular basis. It leaves its residue on your pan. If you have ever had trouble removing grease from a pan, salt can prove to be a boon for you. Simply sprinkle some salt on the greasy pan while it is still hot. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the grease. Then use kitchen roll or a sponge to remove the salt and grease. The abrasive nature of the salt will remove the grease without damaging the surface of your pan. Rinse with warm water and you will see the pan shine.
3. Clearing the drains
A clogged drain in the kitchen sink can be unpleasant and annoying. However, salt can help you fix it quickly. Simply pour half a cup of salt into the drain along with boiling water. The coarseness of the salt will help remove grease and grime accumulated in the drain pipe and the water will flush it out. For an extra clean drain, you can also add half a cup of baking soda before the salt and then add vinegar. Let it boil for a few minutes and then rinse everything with boiling water. This is an eco-friendly way to unclog drains.
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4. Polish brass and copper utensils
Brass and copper utensils are still very prevalent in homes today. However, over time, they can lose their shine and lustre. But salt can help rejuvenate them. Make a paste by mixing equal amounts of salt, flour and vinegar. Apply this paste on your brass and copper utensils and leave it on for about an hour. The roughness of the salt and the acidity of the vinegar will remove the dullness from the brass and copper utensils. Leave it on for an hour before scrubbing the utensils with a soft cloth. Wash off the remaining portion with warm water and let it dry. Your utensils will shine like new!
5. Clear tea and coffee stains
Sometimes, while washing tea and coffee mugs, we come across stubborn stains that are difficult to remove with just dish soap and a sponge. However, at such times, use salt. Sprinkle some salt directly on the stains without scratching the mug. For particularly stubborn stains, you can add some baking soda to the salt and rub. Rinse it off with water and your mugs will be stain-free.
Also read: 8 brilliant ways to reduce excess salt in curries
Can you think of any other ways to use salt in everyday cleaning? Let us know in the comments below!
