Cleaning expert reveals the best natural cleaning solutions you could have stored in your cupboard

New research by Tap Warehouse has revealed the kitchen chores that Brits need the most advice on.

We looked at online searches surrounding “how to clean” in the UK and pulled out the kitchen queries with collectively the most search volume.

We then quizzed Nancy Emery, our in-house cleaning expert at Tap Warehouse, and shared her answers to the nation’s most searched-for cleaning questions below:

1. How to clean the washing machine – 26,000 average monthly searches

Ranking in first place, with the most searches than any other “how to clean” query in the UK are searches surrounding the washing machine.

Often, dirt, hair and other bacteria can get stuck in the drum, rubber gasket and detergent dispenser of your washing machine, which can lead to a build up of mould and mildew, causing a nasty odour.Failure to properly clean this could even affect the cleanliness and smell of your laundry.

Nancy shares, “To combat this, add around 10 drops of essential oil like lavender to two cups of white vinegar and pour this into your detergent dispenser on a hot cycle and then add half a cup of baking soda and begin another hot cycle. This will effectively kill bacteria and cut through grime.

“It’s also worth cleaning the filter on a monthly basis to stop dirt from clogging up your washing machine. Ensure the machine is switched off and unplugged before removing the filter and then use a soft-bristled brush to remove any debris and then secure it back in place once done.”

To maintain the longevity of your machine and prevent foul smells, ensure you’re leaving your washing machine door open after each wash.

2. How to clean silver – 14,000 average monthly searches

The second most searched-for cleaning ‘how to’ is on silverware with an average of 14,000 searches per month.

Nancy says, “To give your silverware an extra shine, there’s many different cupboard items you can use to do this.

“The traditional way to polish up your cutlery has always been mixing vinegar with warm water and dunking each one before polishing up with a clean towel or cloth, but this can be a lengthy process.

“Alternatively, to save time, or if you have quite a bit to polish at once, place your silver cutlery in a large bowl lined with aluminium foil with the shiny side up and pour hot water into the bowl. Ensure the cutlery is completely covered before adding about half a cup of baking soda (to every 2 litres of water). Leave the silverware aside for 30 minutes and then remove the cutlery and rinse well, before drying with a clean cloth.”

3. How to clean a dishwasher – 7,200 average monthly searches

When you’re taking your pots, plates and cutlery out of the dishwasher, you’ll want them to be smelling fresh and looking spotless. However, if the drain gets clogged, this can reduce your appliances performance which can result in unclean, smelly dishes!

With an average of 7,200 monthly searches, Brits across the country are turning to the internet to ask for advice on how to clean their dishwashers.

Nancy advises, “To give your dishwasher the full cleaning treatment, begin by emptying any dishes and utensils to give you easy access to the interior. Once this is done, pull out the bottom rack of your dishwasher and remove the filter. Proceed to empty the filter of any leftover food and debris, before soaking it in warm, soapy water. Next, use a soft-bristled brush to scrub away any dirt before placing the rack back inside.”

She adds, “To give the interior a good clean, you can use 250ml of white vinegar and place this in an upright (dishwasher safe) container in the lower rack of your appliance. Once you’ve run a normal cycle with the container inside and the heat dry option turned off, you should see a noticeably cleaner dishwasher.

“Finally, all that’s left to do is clean mould and mildew off the gasket seals. Make a solution of warm water and soap and use a sponge to wipe away any build up to stop your dishwasher having a foul smell. To finish, use a clean towel to wipe dry.”

4. How to clean an air fryer – 4,320 average monthly searches

Air Fryers are all the craze at the moment. From making easy meals to being able to heat up food in no time, the appliances are perfect for creating yummy dinners, whilst also being more energy efficient than using your oven.

Nancy explains, “It’s recommended that you clean the baskets after every use to prevent grime and food building up, as this can be a nightmare to scrub later on. Firstly, make sure you’ve turned your air fryer off at the plug and then use a kitchen towel to wipe around the basket to mop up any loose grease and fat before washing it.

“Next up, fill your sink with hot, soapy water and place the baskets in there to soak. Wash the baskets and tray with a traditional washing up pad that has a soft sponge. Scorer side should be avoided as this could scratch the surface of your air fryer. Once this is done, wipe over both the tray and baskets with a soft cloth.”

5. How to clean the microwave – 4,400 average monthly searches

With the microwave being the most convenient appliance in your kitchen, it can often build up a large amount of bacteria and can also become very difficult to clean if you let stains, splashes and grime build up for too long.

However, you don’t need to purchase any fancy cleaning spray, as you probably already have the perfect cleaning agent in your cupboard. Nancys says, “Not only is it great to squeeze on your favourite meals, but lemon is the perfect cupboard staple for cleaning due to the acidity, which helps break down bacteria,and cut through grease and stains.

“Simply fill a microwavable bowl halfway with water and half a lemon. Heat on high power for 3-5 minutes to create steam and then wet the cloth in the water and begin to wipe away any grime from the interior. As a rule, make sure you’re wiping the inside of your microwave after each use to keep it in the best shape possible.”

6. How to clean taps – 1,100 average monthly searches

There were multiple searches surrounding how to clean taps, in particular taps with special finishes. Nancy explains, “It’s important to avoid harsh chemicals such as vinegar when cleaning your taps, especially if you have special finishes such as matt black, chrome or brushed brass.

“The best way to keep your taps spotless and scratch free is by using a 75/25 solution of lemon juice and water. You can also just use a soft cloth and warm soapy water, but the lemon juice will help remove any tougher stains. When you’re cleaning, ensure the lemon juice isn’t left on to soak for more than a couple of minutes before rinsing.”