Chowhound Ranks Safe All-Purpose Kitchen Cleaners for Home Use

Various common household and kitchen items can effectively clean and polish different surfaces. For kitchen messes, all-purpose cleaners with natural scents like lavender are preferred over harsh chemical smells, though some industrial-strength cleaners remain powerful but less pleasant. Dishwasher cleaners in tablet form have received high praise for removing odors and grime, leaving dishwashers spotless and fresh-smelling. For wooden floors, flat beer diluted with water can be used as a natural polish to restore shine and minimize scuffing without harsh chemicals. Olive oil, a common cooking ingredient, works well as a stainless steel polisher by adding shine and reducing streaks without greasiness. Additionally, washing up liquid diluted in warm water is widely recommended for streak-free window cleaning, with many users favoring this simple, effective method over vinegar or specialty products.