Spring has arrived, which means it’s time for your annual kitchen spring cleaning! If your homestead kitchen endured an entire season of baking, canning, and hearty meals, it’s probably due for a much-needed refresh. Instead of relying on harsh chemicals to get the job done, why not embrace some tried-and-true methods of the past? Using simple ingredients and applying traditional techniques, your kitchen will feel spotless and welcoming in no time! A Fresh Start: Simple Steps for Kitchen Spring Cleaning Instead of using chemical cleaners, use traditional methods to tackle dirt, grime, and clutter. From organizing your pantry to scrubbing wooden surfaces, these simple yet effective methods will leave your space looking and smelling fresh. Ready to get started? Here’s how to deep-clean your kitchen the old-fashioned way. Start with a Pantry Purge First, tackle the pantry. Crumbs, dust, and expired items accumulate over time and create an ideal environment for pests. Start by emptying the shelves and checking expiration dates. As you go, take inventory of what you have and plan meals around ingredients that need consuming sooner than later. Next, wipe down shelves with a mixture of warm water and white vinegar. This natural solution cleans surfaces while discouraging insects. For sticky residue or stubborn stains, sprinkle baking soda before wiping. To keep pantry staples fresh, transfer grains and flour into airtight glass jars. If you’ve ever dealt with pantry moths, you know they can be a headache. Placing dried bay leaves in storage containers is a simple solution as they naturally deter pests. Refresh Your Appliances Naturally Once you’re done with the pantry, shift your focus to appliances. The fridge, oven, and coffee maker all need attention after months of regular use. Start with the refrigerator. Toss expired condiments, remove and wash the shelves in warm, soapy water. To deodorize, wipe the interior with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar. Placing an open box of baking soda inside will help absorb lingering odors. For the oven, skip chemical sprays. Instead, create a paste with baking soda and water. Spread it inside and let it sit overnight. The next morning, wipe it away with a damp cloth. If grease remains, spritz vinegar over the area to loosen it. For additional natural cleaning methods, visit Good Housekeeping’s vinegar-cleaning guide. To descale your coffee maker, run a cycle with equal parts water and vinegar. Follow with two freshwater cycles to remove any residual vinegar taste. Your morning coffee will taste noticeably fresher! Give Wooden Surfaces the Care They Deserve Wooden countertops, cutting boards, and utensils can lose their luster over time. Fortunately, an easy remedy can restore their natural beauty. First, sprinkle coarse salt over the surface and scrub with a halved lemon. The salt lifts stains, while the lemon’s acidity eliminates bacteria. For deeper conditioning, combine one part melted beeswax with three parts mineral oil, then rub it into the wood. This prevents drying and cracking while enhancing durability. If you use cast iron cookware, now is the perfect time to re-season it. Scrub with coarse salt and a bit of oil instead of soap, then bake it in the oven to maintain its nonstick coating. Need more guidance? Check out Bon Appetit’s guide to caring for wooden boards and cast iron. Wash Windows and Curtains for a Brighter Space A well-lit kitchen feels more inviting, so don’t forget the windows! Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then wipe glass with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine. If you have lace or fabric curtains, wash them with baking soda to remove grime. Let them air-dry outside to generate a crisp, fresh scent. For blinds, an old sock dipped in a vinegar-water solution works wonders. Slip the sock onto your hand and glide it along each slat to remove dust. This quick trick instantly brightens the room. Scrub Floors the Old-Fashioned Way After tackling surfaces, finish with the floors. Dirt and grease build up over the months, especially in busy areas. Instead of store-bought cleaners, try an old-fashioned mop-and-bucket method. Mix warm water with a splash of castile soap or vinegar for hardwood floors. Use a damp—not soaking—mop to prevent damage. If your floors are tile or linoleum, add a few drops of lemon essential oil to the water for a refreshing scent. To lift stubborn stains, sprinkle baking soda directly on the floor before mopping. This method is particularly effective near the stove and sink, where grease and spills tend to accumulate. Keep the Tradition of Kitchen Spring Cleaning Alive With these kitchen spring cleaning techniques, your homestead kitchen will feel refreshed, organized, and chemicals-free. Using natural ingredients protects your family and honors timeless cleaning traditions. So, roll up your sleeves, turn on some music, and enjoy the rewarding process of deep-cleaning—just like Grandma used to do! What’s your favorite old-fashioned cleaning trick? Share in the comments below! FAQs 1. How often should I deep clean my kitchen? A thorough kitchen spring cleaning is ideal once a year, but a seasonal refresh helps maintain an organized and hygienic space. 2. What’s the best natural cleaner for kitchen surfaces? A mix of white vinegar and warm water cleans most surfaces effectively. For grease, add a pinch of baking soda. 3. How can I prevent pantry pests naturally? Store dry goods in airtight containers and place bay leaves in flour, rice, and grain storage. Freezing grains for 48 hours before storing also helps. 4. How do I remove stubborn oven grease without chemicals? Make a baking soda paste with water, spread it inside the oven, and let it sit overnight. Wipe with a damp cloth the next day, using vinegar for any tough spots. 5. What’s the best way to clean wooden cutting boards? Sprinkle coarse salt over the board, then scrub with a halved lemon. This lifts stains and eliminates bacteria naturally. 6. Can I use vinegar to clean everything in my kitchen? No, vinegar should not be used on natural stone countertops, cast iron, or waxed wood, as it can erode finishes over time. 7. How do I naturally deodorize my refrigerator? An open box of baking soda absorbs odors. Wiping the interior with a vinegar-water solution also keeps it smelling fresh. 8. What’s the best way to clean kitchen floors naturally? Use warm water with a splash of vinegar or castile soap for hardwood. For tile or linoleum, add lemon essential oil for a refreshing scent. 9. How can I make my kitchen smell fresh without chemicals? Simmer a pot of water with lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, or rosemary on the stove. It naturally freshens the air. 10. What’s the quickest way to clean dusty blinds? Slip an old sock onto your hand, dip it in a vinegar-water solution, and glide it along each slat. It’s an easy and effective dusting method!