One of the main points of contention between students living in residences is cleaning. We all have different expectations when it comes to hygiene and it can be frustrating sharing personal spaces like kitchens and bathrooms with people who don’t quite meet your standards.
If you’re being honest with yourself there will be a few of you reading this knowing that there have probably been more times your flatmate has had to clean up after you rather than the other way around. Maybe your flat has not been so lucky with your kitchen inspections.
We understand, there are so many other things you could be filling your time with than cleaning the floor that someone is going to walk over with their dirty shoes in the next second. Then there are the times that you have actually bothered to cook a meal rather than oven food but you didn’t anticipate all the cleaning up that comes with it. You have every intention of coming back to it after you have finished your meal but then it doesn’t end up that way.
Whatever category you find yourself in, it is everyone’s responsibility to keep your living spaces clean. To avoid potential warnings or even a fine we have found some cleaning hacks that can make these essential jobs easier.
Keep
Your Fridge fresh
Check
your fridge regularly and throw away any out of date food to prevent bad odours
and mess being made. Line the fridge shelves with cling film so when any
spillages occur, all you have to do is peel off the film, discard of it and
re-line the shelf.
No More Pasta Explosion
Put a wooden spoon across a boiling pot of water to stop it overflowing.
Vinegar Microwave Deodoriser
Put a small bowl of vinegar into your microwave and let it run for about a minute. When it stops you should be able to wipe the walls clean in a single swipe.
Lemon Surface Scrub
Half a lemon or grapefruit will freshen up kitchen surfaces and remove grease scum. Sprinkle the cut side with coarse salt; rub over grimy areas and rinse.
Deep Clean Your Oven
Mix half a cup of baking soda/bicarbonate soda and half a cup of vinegar into a paste. Apply to burnt on scum in your oven and on the trays. Leave for an hour (leave a note for the rest of your flatmates) then wipe away with a cloth and warm water.
To avoid that mad rush before the next kitchen inspections we would suggest making a rota with your flatmates (if you have not already) to make sure you are keeping on top of all of the jobs. Consistent cleaning routines keep everyone happy and keep the pests away.
Let us know if you try any of the hacks.
