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To clean an old dishwasher without a filter, start by removing the bottom rack to access the drain area. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior, paying special attention to the corners and crevices where food particles and debris can build up. Pour a cup of white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe bowl and place it on the top rack, then run a hot water cycle to help break down grease and grime. After the cycle, sprinkle a cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short hot water cycle to deodorize and further clean the interior. 

You can remove stubborn stains from your toilet by scrubbing with a store-bought cleaner appropriate for the toilet’s material. If you’re looking for a homemade solution, you can also use vinegar and baking soda—just pour 2 cups of white vinegar around the edges of your toilet. Once the bowl is wet with vinegar, sprinkle 3 tablespoons of baking soda, concentrating on the stains. Scrub the bowl with a toilet brush and flush to clean the mixture. 

Just a note: While combining baking soda and vinegar is OK, never mix that solution with any other cleaners.

Yes, if you’re strapped for supplies, boiling hot water can be a great alternative for getting rid of soap scum. However, as this method calls for a bit of soaking, it’s best used when cleaning your bathroom sink or bath basin (or on small objects you can submerge). All you have to do is plug your sink or bathtub drain and pour in enough boiling water to cover the soap scum. Allow it to soak for five minutes, drain, and follow up with an additional hot water rinse to remove any lingering residue.

Onions, peppers, fish, broccoli, and fried chicken taste great—but the leftover smells can be less than appetizing. Even if these foods are cooked perfectly, the odors they leave behind can linger well beyond the dishes being cleared and washed. Fortunately, you can use the same tips to get a burnt smell out of the house and remove stubborn food odors. In addition, make sure you’re keeping your fridge clear of odor-smelling foods for too long to keep the stench from invading other foods.