Getting Down and Dirty with Realtor/Cleaning Hack Pundit Karen Nelson

While we may not love spring cleaning, there’s no denying the results are well worth the effort. Few things are more satisfying than a pristine, immaculately clean, uncluttered home. 

Just ask Dallas-based counselor Lori Sikes. “Clutter overwhelms your senses and weighs you down. Getting rid of it is calming to the brain.” That’s not all. Cleaning can also improve your mood, reduce stress, even boost productivity.

But back to the tasks at hand. Love it or hate it, tidying up is a time suck – exactly why we sought out Allie Beth Allman’s Karen Nelson. The perpetually busy Realtor is a master of the household hack.

Her secret weapon? Arm & Hammer baking soda.

“It’s my go-to for cleaning the oven,” said Nelson. Mix one-third cup dish detergent, one-third cup of water, and one cup of baking soda until smooth. “Spread the mixture inside the oven. Let it stand for 10 minutes, then wipe clean with a soft cloth. Fabulous.”

Clean glass on oven doors by pouring on hot water, then sprinkle with baking soda. Scrub away grease with aluminum foil. Another trick: Clean stainless appliances with baby oil and a microfiber cloth.

And what to do with that mildewy smell in your washer? “Put a swirl of toothpaste on top of a lemon half, then run the ‘quick wash’ on hot. You won’t believe the difference.”

For sheets and towels, Nelson sings the praises of Glamorous Wash – a floral, woody blend with undertones of patchouli, vanilla, and musk. “The scent is amazing. I’m addicted.”

A not-so-dirty dozen more cleaning hacks:

Steam-clean your microwave. Boil water and sliced lemons; the steam softens dried-on food, the acid breaks them down.

Throw a few ice cubes made from white vinegar and chunks of lemon down the garbage disposal to de-gunk and deodorize.

Use white vinegar and a hot cycle to clean both the washing machine and dishwasher. For the former, use two cups in lieu of detergent; for the latter, pour one cup in a bowl and place on the bottom rack.

Rub furniture nicks with a walnut (shell removed) to help mask the damage.

Make shower doors sparkle with a wet dryer sheet. The same ingredients that soften fabrics and eliminate static also work to break down the soap scum.

To revitalize and sanitize wooden cutting boards, sprinkle some coarse salt, then scrub with a lemon half.

Massage ketchup into copper pans and cooking accessories to dissolve tarnish. Add a pinch of salt for stubborn spots.

Scrub cast iron with a potato. Cut in half, throw on coarse salt, and watch grime disappear.

A bleach pen works wonders on grout.

To deep clean coffee makers, fill the tank with warm water. Drop in two denture tablets, let dissolve, then run through a regular cycle. Repeat using just water.

A magic eraser lives up to its name. Remove tough scuffs from walls, floors, even white tennis shoes.

Break out the vodka – and yes, while you’re cleaning. Use straight or equal parts vodka and water to degrease cabinets, backsplashes, countertops, and the tops of range hoods. A direct spray will shine up chrome faucets, windows, and mirrors. (Steer clear of trim, frames, and stained finishes.) Or add a warm, welcoming scent to any room with this DIY concoction: a few splashes of vodka, a quarter cup safflower oil and 12 drops of your favorite essential oil.